Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was heckled on Monday (May 13) at a Memorial Day ceremony, which was held to honour soldiers and Israeli civilian victims of hostilities. As Netanyahu ended his speech, addressing bereaved families in Jerusalem, a person shouted "garbage".&nbsp;

As per a report by the news agency Reuters, when Netanyahu was stepping down to the audience seats, the man said, "There is nothing to respect, he killed my children." People present there asked him to keep quiet.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-ground-assault-into-ukraines-kharkiv-region-achieving-tactical-success-721031">Russia intensifies ground assault in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, achieves ‘tactical success’</a>&nbsp;

Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir faced a similar incident as a woman was seen shouting at him. When Gvir, who is a member of Netanyahu's cabinet, was taking the stand to address a military ceremony for fallen soldiers in the southern city of Ashdod, the woman pointed fingers at him and shouted, "He's a criminal."&nbsp;

During the beginning of his speech, shouts from the crowd could be heard.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in a Tel Aviv military cemetery, where Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant took part in a memorial ceremony, a person called on him to resign, as he stepped down after laying a wreath on the memorial.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-china-ratchet-up-ai-arms-race-amid-growing-strategic-concerns-720970">US and China ratchet up AI arms race amid growing strategic concerns</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What did Netanyahu say during the ceremony?&nbsp;</h2>

In his speech, Netanyahu said, "We're not forgetting for even a moment the hostages. We are working tirelessly to bring them back, the living and the dead alike. To bring them all home. We have already brought half of them back, and we will have all of them returned."&nbsp;

"We will enshrine in our hearts forever the victims of hostilities, the lovers of the people and the country. May they rest in peace," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Gaza health system collapsing </h2>

The Hamas-run health authorities on Monday warned that the health system in the Gaza Strip could collapse within hours due to a severe fuel shortage as shipments through key crossings have been blocked.&nbsp;

In a press statement, the health authorities said, "As a result of the failure to bring the needed fuel to power hospital electricity generators, ambulances, and transport employees to their workplaces, the health system will collapse in a few hours."&nbsp;

The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza also informed the updated death toll as it said on Monday that at least 35,091 people have been killed in the territory during more than seven months of war between Israel and Palestinian militants.&nbsp;

The toll includes at least 57 deaths over the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said. A total of 78,827 people have been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was heckled on Monday (May 13) at a Memorial Day ceremony, which was held to honour soldiers and Israeli civilian victims of hostilities.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was heckled on Monday (May 13) at a Memorial Day ceremony, which was held to honour soldiers and Israeli civilian victims of hostilities. As Netanyahu ended his speech, addressing bereaved families in Jerusalem, a person shouted "garbage". As per a report by the news agency Reuters, when Netanyahu was stepping down to the audience seats, the man said, "There is nothing to respect, he killed my children." People present there asked him to keep quiet. Also read: Russia intensifies ground assault in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, achieves ‘tactical success’ Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir faced a similar incident as a woman was seen shouting at him. When Gvir, who is a member of Netanyahu's cabinet, was taking the stand to address a military ceremony for fallen soldiers in the southern city of Ashdod, the woman pointed fingers at him and shouted, "He's a criminal." During the beginning of his speech, shouts from the crowd could be heard. Meanwhile, in a Tel Aviv military cemetery, where Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant took part in a memorial ceremony, a person called on him to resign, as he stepped down after laying a wreath on the memorial. Also read: US and China ratchet up AI arms race amid growing strategic concerns What did Netanyahu say during the ceremony? In his speech, Netanyahu said, "We're not forgetting for even a moment the hostages. We are working tirelessly to bring them back, the living and the dead alike. To bring them all home. We have already brought half of them back, and we will have all of them returned." "We will enshrine in our hearts forever the victims of hostilities, the lovers of the people and the country. May they rest in peace," he added. Gaza health system collapsing The Hamas-run health authorities on Monday warned that the health system in the Gaza Strip could collapse within hours due to a severe fuel shortage as shipments through key crossings have been blocked. In a press statement, the health authorities said, "As a result of the failure to bring the needed fuel to power hospital electricity generators, ambulances, and transport employees to their workplaces, the health system will collapse in a few hours." The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza also informed the updated death toll as it said on Monday that at least 35,091 people have been killed in the territory during more than seven months of war between Israel and Palestinian militants. The toll includes at least 57 deaths over the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said. A total of 78,827 people have been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7. (With inputs from agencies)

‘He killed my children’: Netanyahu heckled during Memorial Day ceremony

The United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Sunday (May 12) that an all-out Israeli offensive in the Gaza Strip's Rafah would provoke "anarchy" without eliminating Hamas.

The United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Sunday (May 12) that an all-out Israeli offensive in the Gaza Strip's Rafah would provoke "anarchy" without eliminating Hamas. "Israel's on the trajectory, potentially, to inherit an insurgency with many armed Hamas left, or if it leaves, a vacuum filled by chaos, filled by anarchy and probably refilled by Hamas," Blinken told CBS News. On being asked whether the US concurred with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement that Israeli forces had killed more civilians than Hamas militants since the war began, Blinken replied simply, "Yes, we do." Speaking to another American media outlet, the US Secretary of State said on Sunday that Washington was continuing to press Israeli leaders to provide a plan for Gaza once the war is finally over. Blinken further said Hamas militants had already returned to certain areas of northern Gaza that Israel had "liberated." Fighting rages across Gaza Blinken remarks came as fighting raged across the Gaza Strip on Sunday. The Israeli military sent tanks into eastern Jabalia in northern Gaza after a night of heavy aerial and ground bombardments, killing 19 people and wounding dozens of others, Palestinian health officials said. Jabalia is the biggest of Gaza's eight historic refugee camps and is home to more than 100,000 people, most of whom were descendants of Palestinians who were driven from towns and villages in what is now Israel during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war that led to the creation the state of Israel. Addressing a press conference, IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari said, "We identified in the past weeks attempts by Hamas to rehabilitate its military capabilities in Jabalia. We are operating there to eliminate those attempts." Thousands of families were leaving Rafah as the Israeli military pressure intensified. Meanwhile, the armed wing of Hamas and the Islamic Jihad said their fighters attacked Israeli forces in several areas inside Gaza with anti-tank rockets and mortar bombs, including in Rafah. Death toll in Gaza over 35,000 The war between Israel and Hamas began last year when Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The Palestinian militant group took hundreds of people as hostages. Israel estimates 128 captives remain in Gaza. It is presumed that 36 of these 128 captives are dead. Israel struck back hard in Gaza, killing thousands of Palestinians and displacing tens of thousands of more. On Sunday, the death toll in the war crossed 35,000, as per the Hamas-run health ministry. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israel's Rafah offensive will provoke 'anarchy' without eliminating Hamas, says Blinken

Britain’s Foreign Secretary David Cameron, on Sunday (May 12) said that the United Kingdom will not stop arms sales to Israel even if it launches a ground assault on Gaza’s Rafah amid the ongoing war as it would strengthen Hamas. The UK foreign office also said that it is investigating the claim by the Palestinian militant group that British-Israeli hostage, Nadav Popplewell, has died in Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Completely different position’</h2>

The British foreign secretary noted that while he did not support an operation in Rafah without Israel having a plan to protect hundreds of thousands of civilians sheltering in the southern border city, the UK was in a “completely different position” to the United States.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Hamas says another Israeli hostage held in Gaza is dead

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This comes as US President Joe Biden warned Israel that Washington would withhold the supply of some weapons if it launches a ground assault on Rafah. However, Cameron said the UK supplies less than one per cent of Israel’s weapons and that they are controlled by a strict licensing system.

“We could, if we chose to, make a sort of political message and say we are going to take that political step,” the foreign secretary told BBC, in an interview.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/setback-for-peace-talks-hamas-condemns-bidens-remarks-on-gaza-hostages-720665">‘Setback for peace talks’: Hamas slams Biden’s call for releasing all hostages in Gaza</a>

He added that the last time he urged to stop sending arms to Israel, there was a “brutal attack by Iran on Israel, including 140 cruise missiles.”&nbsp;

“Just to simply announce today we’re going to change our whole approach to arms exports rather than go through our careful process, it would strengthen Hamas, it would make a hostage deal less likely, I don’t think it would be the right approach,” said Cameron.&nbsp;

<h2>UK to investigate death of British-Israeli hostage</h2>

On Saturday (May 11), Hamas’ armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades released a clip showing British national, Poplewell, 51, who was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nirim with his mother Channah Peri following the Palestinian militant group’s&nbsp;October 7 attack on Israel.&nbsp;

Poplewell’s mother was released in a hostage-sharing agreement in November last year, while his brother was killed during the October 7 attacks.&nbsp;

The 11-second footage shows Nadav in captivity with one black eye and with the text in Arabic and Hebrew that reads: “Time is running out. Your government is lying.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-is-running-out-hamas-releases-video-showing-hostage-held-in-gaza-720407">‘Time is running out’: Hamas releases video showing hostage, claims he ‘died in Israeli strike’</a>

In a statement, Hamas later claimed&nbsp;“he died of wounds that he sustained in an Israeli air strike more than a month ago.”

During the interview, Cameron confirmed that he had seen the video but did not want to say anything till “we have better information” and called Hamas “callous” for releasing the clip.&nbsp;

A spokesperson by the UK foreign office later said that it was urgently seeking more information on the matter.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Britain’s Foreign Secretary David Cameron, on Sunday (May 12) said that the United Kingdom will not stop arms sales to Israel even if it launches a ground assault on Gaza’s Rafah amid the ongoing war as it would strengthen Hamas.

Britain’s Foreign Secretary David Cameron, on Sunday (May 12) said that the United Kingdom will not stop arms sales to Israel even if it launches a ground assault on Gaza’s Rafah amid the ongoing war as it would strengthen Hamas. The UK foreign office also said that it is investigating the claim by the Palestinian militant group that British-Israeli hostage, Nadav Popplewell, has died in Gaza. ‘Completely different position’ The British foreign secretary noted that while he did not support an operation in Rafah without Israel having a plan to protect hundreds of thousands of civilians sheltering in the southern border city, the UK was in a “completely different position” to the United States. WATCH | Hamas says another Israeli hostage held in Gaza is dead This comes as US President Joe Biden warned Israel that Washington would withhold the supply of some weapons if it launches a ground assault on Rafah. However, Cameron said the UK supplies less than one per cent of Israel’s weapons and that they are controlled by a strict licensing system. “We could, if we chose to, make a sort of political message and say we are going to take that political step,” the foreign secretary told BBC, in an interview. Also Read | ‘Setback for peace talks’: Hamas slams Biden’s call for releasing all hostages in Gaza He added that the last time he urged to stop sending arms to Israel, there was a “brutal attack by Iran on Israel, including 140 cruise missiles.” “Just to simply announce today we’re going to change our whole approach to arms exports rather than go through our careful process, it would strengthen Hamas, it would make a hostage deal less likely, I don’t think it would be the right approach,” said Cameron. UK to investigate death of British-Israeli hostage On Saturday (May 11), Hamas’ armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades released a clip showing British national, Poplewell, 51, who was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nirim with his mother Channah Peri following the Palestinian militant group’s October 7 attack on Israel. Poplewell’s mother was released in a hostage-sharing agreement in November last year, while his brother was killed during the October 7 attacks. The 11-second footage shows Nadav in captivity with one black eye and with the text in Arabic and Hebrew that reads: “Time is running out. Your government is lying.” Also Read | ‘Time is running out’: Hamas releases video showing hostage, claims he ‘died in Israeli strike’ In a statement, Hamas later claimed “he died of wounds that he sustained in an Israeli air strike more than a month ago.” During the interview, Cameron confirmed that he had seen the video but did not want to say anything till “we have better information” and called Hamas “callous” for releasing the clip. A spokesperson by the UK foreign office later said that it was urgently seeking more information on the matter. (With inputs from agencies)

UK will continue arms export to Israel despite assault on Gaza's Rafah, says Cameron

Palestine-based militant group Hamas on Friday (May 10) said that the talks on a ceasefire and hostage release are back to "square one" because Israel rejected a truce plan submitted by mediators.&nbsp;

In a statement, the militant group said, "The rejection of the mediators' proposal by Israel... has returned matters to square one." The statement comes a day after Israeli and Hamas negotiating teams left Cairo talks on the terms of a truce without a deal.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-general-assembly-approves-resolution-granting-palestine-new-rights-720206">UN General Assembly votes for granting Palestine new rights, member status</a>&nbsp;

Hamas said it had agreed to the plan, which included the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the return of displaced civilians, and the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;

The main objective was to establish a "permanent ceasefire" - something Israel has long opposed, insisting that it must first finish dismantling Hamas.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-gaza-protests-us-ambassador-garcetti-skips-jnu-meet-720118">Amid Gaza protests, US ambassador to India Garcetti skips JNU meet</a>&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Hamas senior official Khalil Al-Hayya said on Friday that the militant group wants calmness and&nbsp; a prisoners swap deal, but Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants the war to continue.&nbsp;

The official added that Hamas did not suspend nor withdraw from the ceasefire negotiations.&nbsp;

Watch: Four Israeli soldiers killed in North Gaza, tanks advances into Rafah&nbsp;

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<h2>War in Gaza: Death toll&nbsp;</h2>

The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Friday that at least 34,943 people have been killed in the Palestinian territory during the war between Israel and Hamas militants. The tally includes at least 39 deaths in the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said.&nbsp;

Amid the worsening situation in Gaza, the United Nations chief Antonio Guterres issued a warning that Gaza risked an "epic humanitarian disaster".&nbsp;

Israeli ground troops seized eastern areas of the southern city of Rafah, including the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza, earlier this week. The operations around the city effectively halted aid supplies.&nbsp;

"On the Gazan side of the Rafah crossing, the troops eliminated several terror cells during close-quarters combat and with an aerial strike," the military said.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Palestine-based militant group Hamas on Friday (May 10) said that the talks on a ceasefire and hostage release are back to "square one" because Israel rejected a truce plan submitted by mediators.

Palestine-based militant group Hamas on Friday (May 10) said that the talks on a ceasefire and hostage release are back to "square one" because Israel rejected a truce plan submitted by mediators. In a statement, the militant group said, "The rejection of the mediators' proposal by Israel... has returned matters to square one." The statement comes a day after Israeli and Hamas negotiating teams left Cairo talks on the terms of a truce without a deal. Also read: UN General Assembly votes for granting Palestine new rights, member status Hamas said it had agreed to the plan, which included the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the return of displaced civilians, and the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners. The main objective was to establish a "permanent ceasefire" - something Israel has long opposed, insisting that it must first finish dismantling Hamas. Also read: Amid Gaza protests, US ambassador to India Garcetti skips JNU meet Meanwhile, Hamas senior official Khalil Al-Hayya said on Friday that the militant group wants calmness and a prisoners swap deal, but Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants the war to continue. The official added that Hamas did not suspend nor withdraw from the ceasefire negotiations. Watch: Four Israeli soldiers killed in North Gaza, tanks advances into Rafah × War in Gaza: Death toll The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Friday that at least 34,943 people have been killed in the Palestinian territory during the war between Israel and Hamas militants. The tally includes at least 39 deaths in the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said. Amid the worsening situation in Gaza, the United Nations chief Antonio Guterres issued a warning that Gaza risked an "epic humanitarian disaster". Israeli ground troops seized eastern areas of the southern city of Rafah, including the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza, earlier this week. The operations around the city effectively halted aid supplies. "On the Gazan side of the Rafah crossing, the troops eliminated several terror cells during close-quarters combat and with an aerial strike," the military said. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas says truce talks back to 'square one' as war death toll nears 35,000

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.<meta name="uuid" content="uuidLXa3RcOjvYbO" />

Muhammad Nimr&nbsp;Qazaat,&nbsp;and his son&nbsp;Youssef, both doctors by profession,&nbsp;were killed in an Israeli air strike on the city of Deir al-Balah in a central area of the Gaza Strip, the war-torn&nbsp;region's&nbsp;civil defence agency said on Sunday (May 12).&nbsp;

In a statement, the civil defence agency said,&nbsp;"The bodies of Doctor Muhammad Nimr Qazaat and his son, Doctor Youssef, were recovered (as&nbsp;they were killed) because of an Israeli raid on the city of Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip, and&nbsp;they were transferred&nbsp;to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah."

The Israeli military did not comment on the development yet.

<h2>Israel launches fresh strikes in&nbsp;Gaza</h2>

This raid came as the Israeli military launched fresh strikes in the Gaza Strip on Sunday after it expanded an evacuation order for Rafah. Citing witnesses, a report by the news agency AFP said that&nbsp;Israel had carried out strikes in Rafah near the crossing with Egypt on Saturday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-gaza-ceasefire-possible-tomorrow-if-hamas-releases-hostages-720494">Biden says Gaza ceasefire possible as soon as 'tomorrow' if Hamas releases hostages</a>

Also on Saturday, the&nbsp;Israeli military said it called on residents and displaced people in Jabalia, northern&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;to clear out,&nbsp;saying it was returning to operate in the area after it noticed Hamas trying to re-establish its control (of&nbsp;the area).

“In northern&nbsp;Gaza, in the last hour, fighter jets have been striking terrorist targets. This morning&nbsp;we&nbsp;began a temporary evacuation process of the Jabalia area from this area towards the centre of the&nbsp;strip&nbsp;as part of our preparation for a military operation in the area. In recent weeks, we have identified attempts by Hamas to restore its military capabilities in Jabalia&nbsp;and&nbsp;we are working to dismantle these attempts,"&nbsp;Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari said.

<h2>Gaza truce deal possible tomorrow if...: Joe Biden</h2>

As the hopes of a ceasefire deal in the Gaza war are fading, United States President Joe Biden said on Saturday that a truce in the war&nbsp;was possible as soon as&nbsp;"tomorrow"&nbsp;if Hamas released hostages.&nbsp;Some 250 people&nbsp;were abducted&nbsp;to the Gaza Strip on October 7 when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel.

Israel has said 128 of them are still held captive in the Palestinian territory. Among them, 38 are presumed to be dead.

Also watch |&nbsp;Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes

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"There would be a ceasefire tomorrow if Hamas would release the hostages,"&nbsp;US President Biden&nbsp;said at a fundraiser outside Seattle, at the home of a former Microsoft executive, after avoiding the topic at three similar events on Friday.

"Israel said&nbsp;it's&nbsp;up to Hamas, if&nbsp;they wanted to do it, we could end it tomorrow. And the ceasefire would begin tomorrow,"&nbsp;he added.&nbsp;Hamas and Israel have so far failed to reach a ceasefire deal despite repeated rounds of indirect negotiations.

(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.

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. Muhammad Nimr Qazaat, and his son Youssef, both doctors by profession, were killed in an Israeli air strike on the city of Deir al-Balah in a central area of the Gaza Strip, the war-torn region's civil defence agency said on Sunday (May 12). In a statement, the civil defence agency said, "The bodies of Doctor Muhammad Nimr Qazaat and his son, Doctor Youssef, were recovered (as they were killed) because of an Israeli raid on the city of Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip, and they were transferred to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah." The Israeli military did not comment on the development yet. Israel launches fresh strikes in Gaza This raid came as the Israeli military launched fresh strikes in the Gaza Strip on Sunday after it expanded an evacuation order for Rafah. Citing witnesses, a report by the news agency AFP said that Israel had carried out strikes in Rafah near the crossing with Egypt on Saturday. Also read | Biden says Gaza ceasefire possible as soon as 'tomorrow' if Hamas releases hostages Also on Saturday, the Israeli military said it called on residents and displaced people in Jabalia, northern Gaza to clear out, saying it was returning to operate in the area after it noticed Hamas trying to re-establish its control (of the area). “In northern Gaza, in the last hour, fighter jets have been striking terrorist targets. This morning we began a temporary evacuation process of the Jabalia area from this area towards the centre of the strip as part of our preparation for a military operation in the area. In recent weeks, we have identified attempts by Hamas to restore its military capabilities in Jabalia and we are working to dismantle these attempts," Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari said. Gaza truce deal possible tomorrow if...: Joe Biden As the hopes of a ceasefire deal in the Gaza war are fading, United States President Joe Biden said on Saturday that a truce in the war was possible as soon as "tomorrow" if Hamas released hostages. Some 250 people were abducted to the Gaza Strip on October 7 when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel. Israel has said 128 of them are still held captive in the Palestinian territory. Among them, 38 are presumed to be dead. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × "There would be a ceasefire tomorrow if Hamas would release the hostages," US President Biden said at a fundraiser outside Seattle, at the home of a former Microsoft executive, after avoiding the topic at three similar events on Friday. "Israel said it's up to Hamas, if they wanted to do it, we could end it tomorrow. And the ceasefire would begin tomorrow," he added. Hamas and Israel have so far failed to reach a ceasefire deal despite repeated rounds of indirect negotiations. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Father and son, both doctors, killed in Israeli air strike on Deir al-Balah

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.

<meta name="uuid" content="uuid91qceSHr2MLs" />Israel on Saturday (May 11) hit parts of the war-ravaged Gaza Strip&nbsp;including&nbsp;Rafah&nbsp;as&nbsp;the hopes of a truce deal (between Israel and Hamas) were fading away. A report by the news agency AFP said that at least 21 people were killed during strikes in central Gaza and taken to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah. While&nbsp;in Rafah, there were&nbsp;intense air strikes near the crossing with Egypt.

Other Israel strikes occurred in north Gaza, AFP reported citing witnesses. The strikes came after the Israeli military on Tuesday (May 7)&nbsp;seized and closed the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing -- through which all fuel passes into Gaza -- after ordering residents of eastern Rafah to evacuate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-refuses-to-coordinate-with-israel-on-gaza-aid-over-unacceptable-escalation-reports-720478">Egypt refuses to coordinate with Israel on Gaza aid over ‘unacceptable escalation,’ say reports</a>

On Saturday, the military said that&nbsp;troops were fighting "armed terrorists" at the crossing and had found "numerous underground tunnel shafts."&nbsp;

<h2>300k fled Rafah since the initial evacuation order</h2>

Israel said on Saturday that 300,000 people had fled Rafah since an initial evacuation order. Sharing a new evacuation order on X, the Israeli military told Palestinians&nbsp;to go to the "humanitarian zone" of Al-Mawasi, on the coast northwest of Rafah.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%B9%D8%A7%D8%AC%D9%84?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#عاجل</a> 🔴 نداء إلى جميع السكان والنازحين المتواجدين في منطقة جباليا وأحياء السلام والنور وتل الزعتر ومشروع بيت لاهيا ومعسكر جباليا وعزبة ملين والروضة, والنزهة, الجرن، النهضة، والزهور - توجهوا فورًا إلى المآوي غرب مدينة غزة! 
 
⭕️تتواجدون في منطقة قتال خطيرة. تحاول حماس إعمار… <a href="https://t.co/oFYipXMajx">pic.twitter.com/oFYipXMajx</a>
— افيخاي ادرعي (@AvichayAdraee) <a href="https://twitter.com/AvichayAdraee/status/1789171670105636971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"A call to all residents and displaced people in the Jabalia area and the neighbourhoods of Al-Salam, Al-Nour, Tal Al-Zaatar, Beit Lahia Project, Jabalia Camp, Ezbet Mlin, Al-Rawda, Al-Nuzha, Al-Jarn, Al-Nahda, and Al-Zuhour - go immediately to the shelters west of Gaza City!" the post added.&nbsp;

<h2>Death toll in Gaza nears 35,000</h2>

The war between Israel and Hamas began after the Palestinian militant group launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7 last year, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians.

Also watch |&nbsp;Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes

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Israel has said 128 of them are still held captive in the Palestinian territory. Among them, 38 are presumed to be dead.

Israel struck back hard in the Gaza Strip, killing&nbsp;at least 34,971,&nbsp;mostly&nbsp;women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. Thousands of people have&nbsp;been injured&nbsp;in the Palestinian territory.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Israel on Saturday (May 11) hit parts of the war-ravaged Gaza Strip including Rafah as the hopes of a truce deal (between Israel and Hamas) were fading away. A report by the news agency AFP said that at least 21 people were killed during strikes in central Gaza and taken to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah. While in Rafah, there were intense air strikes near the crossing with Egypt. Other Israel strikes occurred in north Gaza, AFP reported citing witnesses. The strikes came after the Israeli military on Tuesday (May 7) seized and closed the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing -- through which all fuel passes into Gaza -- after ordering residents of eastern Rafah to evacuate. Also read | Egypt refuses to coordinate with Israel on Gaza aid over ‘unacceptable escalation,’ say reports On Saturday, the military said that troops were fighting "armed terrorists" at the crossing and had found "numerous underground tunnel shafts." 300k fled Rafah since the initial evacuation order Israel said on Saturday that 300,000 people had fled Rafah since an initial evacuation order. Sharing a new evacuation order on X, the Israeli military told Palestinians to go to the "humanitarian zone" of Al-Mawasi, on the coast northwest of Rafah. #عاجل 🔴 نداء إلى جميع السكان والنازحين المتواجدين في منطقة جباليا وأحياء السلام والنور وتل الزعتر ومشروع بيت لاهيا ومعسكر جباليا وعزبة ملين والروضة, والنزهة, الجرن، النهضة، والزهور - توجهوا فورًا إلى المآوي غرب مدينة غزة! ⭕️تتواجدون في منطقة قتال خطيرة. تحاول حماس إعمار… pic.twitter.com/oFYipXMajx — افيخاي ادرعي (@AvichayAdraee) May 11, 2024 × "A call to all residents and displaced people in the Jabalia area and the neighbourhoods of Al-Salam, Al-Nour, Tal Al-Zaatar, Beit Lahia Project, Jabalia Camp, Ezbet Mlin, Al-Rawda, Al-Nuzha, Al-Jarn, Al-Nahda, and Al-Zuhour - go immediately to the shelters west of Gaza City!" the post added. Death toll in Gaza nears 35,000 The war between Israel and Hamas began after the Palestinian militant group launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7 last year, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × Israel has said 128 of them are still held captive in the Palestinian territory. Among them, 38 are presumed to be dead. Israel struck back hard in the Gaza Strip, killing at least 34,971, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. Thousands of people have been injured in the Palestinian territory. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel hits parts of Gaza including Rafah as truce deal hopes fade

The Israeli army said around 300,000 people have left eastern Rafah for a humanitarian area, as of Saturday (May 11) while its latest order indicates that the military may launch a ground attack in the area. Meanwhile, Hebrew and Egyptian state media reports said that Egypt has halted deliveries of aid to Gaza and refuses to coordinate with Israel on the entry for assistance.

<h2>Egypt halts aid, refuses to coordinate with Israel: Reports</h2>

On Saturday, Egypt’s state-affiliated Alqahera News satellite TV citing a senior official said, Cairo has refused to coordinate with Israel on the entry of aid into Gaza from the Rafah crossing due to Israel’s “unacceptable escalation”.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel's ground invasion into Rafah sparks an exodus of 300,000 Palestinians

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Cairo held Israel responsible for the deterioration of the situation in the Gaza Strip, the official said according to the media report. This comes after the Israeli forces, on Monday (May 7) seized the main border crossing at Rafah, a key route for aid to enter from Egypt.&nbsp;

Egypt has halted deliveries of aid to Gaza in protest of the Israeli army’s takeover of the Rafah crossing, reported Times of Israel citing Hebrew media reports. Similarly, a report by Reuters citing Red Crescent sources in Egypt said shipments had completely halted.&nbsp;

A report by the Times of Israel citing anonymous American officials said Israel did not coordinate with Egypt ahead of the operation on Rafah, adding that they are urging Egyptian officials to resume aid deliveries through Kerem Shalom.&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;United Nations agency OCHA says it’s struggling to provide Palestinians with aid because of Israeli restrictions.&nbsp;

<h2>Around 300,000 Gazans have evacuated east Rafah: Israeli military</h2>

The Israeli military, in a statement, on Saturday about 300,000 people had left eastern Rafah for a humanitarian area in Al-Mawasi since they first issued the evacuation order on Monday (May 7).&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-is-running-out-hamas-releases-video-showing-hostage-held-in-gaza-720407">‘Time is running out’: Hamas releases video showing hostage, claims he ‘died in Israeli strike’</a>

It added that the calls for “temporary evacuation” were being communicated to people through leaflets, mobile text messages, phone calls and broadcasts in Arabic.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel expands evacuation order</h2>

In a post on X, an Israeli military spokesperson asked residents and displaced people in the Jabalia, an area in northern Gaza, and 11 other neighbourhoods in the enclave to go immediately to places west of Gaza City.&nbsp;

The announcement suggests that the military is pressing ahead with its plans for a ground attack on Rafah, which many countries across the world have warned Israel not to do.&nbsp;

Overnight strikes across the enclave, including in Rafah, killed at least 37 people, out of which 24 were from central Gaza areas, according to the Palestinian health ministry.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-releases-evacuation-orders-for-people-in-more-areas-of-gazas-rafah-720367">Israel orders evacuation from more areas in Rafah, presses ahead with ground offensive</a>

In Rafah, residents told Reuters the new evacuation orders by the Israeli military cover areas in the centre of the city and leave little doubt that Israel has planned to expand its ground offensive there.

<h2>Death toll nears 35,000-mark</h2>

The Hamas-run health ministry, on Saturday, said that at least 34,971 people have been killed in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;

It added that around 78,641 people have been wounded in Gaza since the war broke out after the Palestinian militant group attacked Israel on October 7.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

The Israeli army said around 300,000 people have left eastern Rafah for a humanitarian area, as of Saturday (May 11) while its latest order indicates that the military may launch a ground attack in the area.

The Israeli army said around 300,000 people have left eastern Rafah for a humanitarian area, as of Saturday (May 11) while its latest order indicates that the military may launch a ground attack in the area. Meanwhile, Hebrew and Egyptian state media reports said that Egypt has halted deliveries of aid to Gaza and refuses to coordinate with Israel on the entry for assistance. Egypt halts aid, refuses to coordinate with Israel: Reports On Saturday, Egypt’s state-affiliated Alqahera News satellite TV citing a senior official said, Cairo has refused to coordinate with Israel on the entry of aid into Gaza from the Rafah crossing due to Israel’s “unacceptable escalation”. WATCH | Israel's ground invasion into Rafah sparks an exodus of 300,000 Palestinians Cairo held Israel responsible for the deterioration of the situation in the Gaza Strip, the official said according to the media report. This comes after the Israeli forces, on Monday (May 7) seized the main border crossing at Rafah, a key route for aid to enter from Egypt. Egypt has halted deliveries of aid to Gaza in protest of the Israeli army’s takeover of the Rafah crossing, reported Times of Israel citing Hebrew media reports. Similarly, a report by Reuters citing Red Crescent sources in Egypt said shipments had completely halted. A report by the Times of Israel citing anonymous American officials said Israel did not coordinate with Egypt ahead of the operation on Rafah, adding that they are urging Egyptian officials to resume aid deliveries through Kerem Shalom. Meanwhile, United Nations agency OCHA says it’s struggling to provide Palestinians with aid because of Israeli restrictions. Around 300,000 Gazans have evacuated east Rafah: Israeli military The Israeli military, in a statement, on Saturday about 300,000 people had left eastern Rafah for a humanitarian area in Al-Mawasi since they first issued the evacuation order on Monday (May 7). Also Read | ‘Time is running out’: Hamas releases video showing hostage, claims he ‘died in Israeli strike’ It added that the calls for “temporary evacuation” were being communicated to people through leaflets, mobile text messages, phone calls and broadcasts in Arabic. Israel expands evacuation order In a post on X, an Israeli military spokesperson asked residents and displaced people in the Jabalia, an area in northern Gaza, and 11 other neighbourhoods in the enclave to go immediately to places west of Gaza City. The announcement suggests that the military is pressing ahead with its plans for a ground attack on Rafah, which many countries across the world have warned Israel not to do. Overnight strikes across the enclave, including in Rafah, killed at least 37 people, out of which 24 were from central Gaza areas, according to the Palestinian health ministry. Also Read | Israel orders evacuation from more areas in Rafah, presses ahead with ground offensive In Rafah, residents told Reuters the new evacuation orders by the Israeli military cover areas in the centre of the city and leave little doubt that Israel has planned to expand its ground offensive there. Death toll nears 35,000-mark The Hamas-run health ministry, on Saturday, said that at least 34,971 people have been killed in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. It added that around 78,641 people have been wounded in Gaza since the war broke out after the Palestinian militant group attacked Israel on October 7. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Egypt refuses to coordinate with Israel on Gaza aid over ‘unacceptable escalation’: Reports

The United States said on Friday (May 10) that Israel's use of American-supplied weapons may have violated international humanitarian law during its military operation in the Gaza Strip.

The United States said on Friday (May 10) that Israel's use of American-supplied weapons may have violated international humanitarian law during its military operation in the Gaza Strip. This was Washington's strongest criticism of Israel since the Israel-Hamas war began in October last year. However, the Joe Biden administration stopped short of a definitive assessment, saying that due to the chaos of the Israel-Hamas war it could not verify specific instances where use of those weapons might have been involved in alleged breaches. The State Department report with contradictions This assessment came in a 46-page unclassified State Department report to Congress required under a new National Security Memorandum (NSM) that President Joe Biden issued in February. Also read | UN General Assembly votes for granting Palestine new rights, member status The report included contradictions- It listed numerous credible reports of civilian harm and said Israel did not at first cooperate with Washington to boost humanitarian assistance to the enclave. But in each instance, it said it could not make a definitive assessment of whether any breaches of law had occurred. "Given Israel's significant reliance on US-made defence articles, it is reasonable to assess that defence articles covered under NSM-20 have been used by Israeli security forces since October 7 in instances inconsistent with its IHL obligations or with established best practices for mitigating civilian harm," the report said. "Israel has not shared complete information to verify whether US defence articles covered under NSM-20 were specifically used in actions that have been alleged as violations of IHL or IHRL in Gaza, or in the West Bank and East Jerusalem during the period of the report," it added. 'Biden administration ducked all hard questions' Reacting to the report, Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen said the administration had "ducked all the hard questions" and avoided looking closely at whether Israel's conduct should mean military aid is cut off. Also watch | How is Gaza war shaping US politics? × "This report contradicts itself because it concludes that there are reasonable grounds to believe violations to international law have occurred, but at the same time that says they're not finding non-compliance," Hollen said during a press conference. Israel's military conduct in the Gaza Strip has come under increasing scrutiny, and officials at the US State Department have been divided over the issue.

Gaza war: Israel's use of US-supplied weapons may have violated international law, says Washington

Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, on Saturday (May 11) released a video showing a man held hostage in Gaza. The man can be&nbsp;seen alive in the 11-second footage. The video is superimposed with text in Arabic and Hebrew that reads: "Time is running out. Your government is lying."

The man in the video is believed to be&nbsp;Nadav Poplewell, a UK national, who was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nirim. Hamas said "he died&nbsp;of wounds that he sustained in an Israeli air strike more than a month ago."

The 51-year-old hostage was kidnapped along with his mother&nbsp;Channa Peri, who was released in a hostage-sharing agreement in November last year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi59ISB24WGAxXESGcHHfSWB4UQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-over-1700-evacuated-from-areas-near-russian-border-in-kharkiv-720350" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-over-1700-evacuated-from-areas-near-russian-border-in-kharkiv-720350&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi59ISB24WGAxXESGcHHfSWB4UQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Ukraine war: Over 1700 evacuated from areas near Russian border in Kharkiv</a>

Poplewell's brother was killed in the October 7 attacks. In the video,&nbsp;Nadav looks bruised in one of the eyes.

The video was posted on Hamas' telegram channel. It's the third time in less than a month that the group has released&nbsp;footage of hostages.

Earlier, on April 27, the militant group released a video showing two hostages alive: Keith Siegel and Omri Miran.

Three days earlier it posted another video showing hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin alive.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israel orders new evacuation orders in Rafah

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It comes as pressure grows over the Israeli government of PM Benjamin Netanyahu to secure the release of hostages still held in Gaza.

"Every sign of life received from the hostages held by Hamas is another cry of distress to the Israeli government and its leaders," the families' group said in its statement on Saturday.

"We don't have a moment to spare! You must strive to implement a deal that will bring them all back today," it added.

Some 250 people were abducted to the Gaza Strip on October 7 when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel.

Israeli officials say 128 of them are still held captive in the Palestinian territory, including 36 who are dead.

Reacting to the video released Saturday,&nbsp;The Hostages and Missing Families Forum in Israel&nbsp;released a statement urging the Netanyahu government to strike a peace deal as soon as possible.

“Every sign of life received from the hostages held by Hamas is another cry of distress to the Israeli government and its leaders,” the families’ group said in its statement.

“We don’t have a moment to spare! You must strive to implement a deal that will bring them all back today.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, on Saturday (May 11) released a video showing a man held hostage in Gaza. The man can be seen alive in the 11-second footage.

Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, on Saturday (May 11) released a video showing a man held hostage in Gaza. The man can be seen alive in the 11-second footage. The video is superimposed with text in Arabic and Hebrew that reads: "Time is running out. Your government is lying." The man in the video is believed to be Nadav Poplewell, a UK national, who was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nirim. Hamas said "he died of wounds that he sustained in an Israeli air strike more than a month ago." The 51-year-old hostage was kidnapped along with his mother Channa Peri, who was released in a hostage-sharing agreement in November last year. Also read: Ukraine war: Over 1700 evacuated from areas near Russian border in Kharkiv Poplewell's brother was killed in the October 7 attacks. In the video, Nadav looks bruised in one of the eyes. The video was posted on Hamas' telegram channel. It's the third time in less than a month that the group has released footage of hostages. Earlier, on April 27, the militant group released a video showing two hostages alive: Keith Siegel and Omri Miran. Three days earlier it posted another video showing hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin alive. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Israel orders new evacuation orders in Rafah × It comes as pressure grows over the Israeli government of PM Benjamin Netanyahu to secure the release of hostages still held in Gaza. "Every sign of life received from the hostages held by Hamas is another cry of distress to the Israeli government and its leaders," the families' group said in its statement on Saturday. "We don't have a moment to spare! You must strive to implement a deal that will bring them all back today," it added. Some 250 people were abducted to the Gaza Strip on October 7 when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel. Israeli officials say 128 of them are still held captive in the Palestinian territory, including 36 who are dead. Reacting to the video released Saturday, The Hostages and Missing Families Forum in Israel released a statement urging the Netanyahu government to strike a peace deal as soon as possible. “Every sign of life received from the hostages held by Hamas is another cry of distress to the Israeli government and its leaders,” the families’ group said in its statement. “We don’t have a moment to spare! You must strive to implement a deal that will bring them all back today.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘Time is running out’: Hamas releases video showing hostage, claims he ‘died in Israeli strike’

In a dramatic display of outrage, Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan shredded a copy of the UN Charter during the&nbsp;United Nations General Assembly session in New York on Friday (May 10). This happened as a resolution supporting full UN membership for Palestine was overwhelmingly passed during the session.

<h2>Resolution for Palestine's membership</h2>

The UNGA in an overwhelming vote passed a resolution asking the Security Council to make Palestine, which has UN observer status, a full member. The resolution, which was proposed by the United Arab Emirates, received the backing of 143 nations, including India.

While 25 countries abstained, nine, including the United States and Israel, opposed it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-general-assembly-approves-resolution-granting-palestine-new-rights-720206">UN General Assembly votes for granting Palestine new rights, member status</a>

This vote grants Palestine, currently an observer state, a stronger push towards full membership, a status that must ultimately be approved by the Security Council.

<h2>A 'clear violation'</h2>

Ambassador Erdan vehemently criticised the resolution, branding it a "clear violation" of the UN Charter and accusing the General Assembly of bypassing a US veto that was cast in the Security Council the previous month.&nbsp;

"This day will go down in infamy," Erdan declared during his impassioned speech. "I want the entire world to remember this moment, this immoral act...today I want to hold up a mirror for you, so you can see what exactly you are inflicting upon the UN Charter with this destructive vote. You are shredding the UN Charter with your own hands," he told the assembly members as he held up a miniature shredder and shredded a copy of the UN charter.

Watch video here:

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Today, I demonstrated to the General Assembly what they are doing to the UN Charter by ignoring it and shredded it on the stage. I told the ambassadors that today will go down in infamy and I want the world to remember when they shredded the UN Charter to advance a Nazi regime… <a href="https://t.co/NulOtHsAdK">pic.twitter.com/NulOtHsAdK</a>
— Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/giladerdan1/status/1788989669507469700?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Erdan escalated his rhetoric by saying that the resolution opens up the UN to "modern day Nazis," a reference to Hamas.

Calling Hamas leader, Yahya Sinwar, "the Hitler of our times," he said, "Today, you are also about to grant privileges and rights&nbsp;to the future terror state of Hamas. You have opened up the United Nations for modern day Nazis, to the Hitler of our times."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israels-use-of-us-supplied-weapons-may-have-violated-international-law-says-washington-720237">Gaza war: Israel's use of US-supplied weapons may have violated international law, says Washington</a>

Holding up an image of Sinwar, Erdan further added, "I present to you the future outcome of today's vote...the soon-to-be President, Yahya Sinwar, President tyrant of the State of Hamas, sponsored by the UN, and he owes his deepest gratitude to you, the General Assembly."

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This is the future president of the terrorist state that the UN is promoting‼️ I showed the ambassadors the picture of Yahya Sinwar and made clear: in the future you will have to explain why you did everything to give today's Nazis a state of terror. Watch and retweet &gt;&gt; <a href="https://t.co/LDLO6PUvQ6">pic.twitter.com/LDLO6PUvQ6</a>
— Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/giladerdan1/status/1789003461901586861?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Israel's Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, echoed Erdan’s sentiments, denouncing the resolution as an "absurd decision" that underlines the UN's "structural bias."&nbsp;

He argued that "the message that the UN is sending to our suffering region: violence pays off."

"The decision to upgrade the status of Palestinians in the UN is a prize for Hamas terrorists after they committed the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust."

On the other side, Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour welcomed the resolution as a significant step forward for Palestine's international recognition and stated that the Palestinian Authority would pursue full membership through the Security Council. However, this move is likely to face a US veto, mirroring a similar veto in April that blocked a resolution from advancing.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a dramatic display of outrage, Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan shredded a copy of the UN Charter during the United Nations General Assembly session in New York on Friday (May 10).

In a dramatic display of outrage, Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan shredded a copy of the UN Charter during the United Nations General Assembly session in New York on Friday (May 10). This happened as a resolution supporting full UN membership for Palestine was overwhelmingly passed during the session. Resolution for Palestine's membership The UNGA in an overwhelming vote passed a resolution asking the Security Council to make Palestine, which has UN observer status, a full member. The resolution, which was proposed by the United Arab Emirates, received the backing of 143 nations, including India. While 25 countries abstained, nine, including the United States and Israel, opposed it. Also read | UN General Assembly votes for granting Palestine new rights, member status This vote grants Palestine, currently an observer state, a stronger push towards full membership, a status that must ultimately be approved by the Security Council. A 'clear violation' Ambassador Erdan vehemently criticised the resolution, branding it a "clear violation" of the UN Charter and accusing the General Assembly of bypassing a US veto that was cast in the Security Council the previous month. "This day will go down in infamy," Erdan declared during his impassioned speech. "I want the entire world to remember this moment, this immoral act...today I want to hold up a mirror for you, so you can see what exactly you are inflicting upon the UN Charter with this destructive vote. You are shredding the UN Charter with your own hands," he told the assembly members as he held up a miniature shredder and shredded a copy of the UN charter. Watch video here: Today, I demonstrated to the General Assembly what they are doing to the UN Charter by ignoring it and shredded it on the stage. I told the ambassadors that today will go down in infamy and I want the world to remember when they shredded the UN Charter to advance a Nazi regime… pic.twitter.com/NulOtHsAdK — Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) May 10, 2024 × Erdan escalated his rhetoric by saying that the resolution opens up the UN to "modern day Nazis," a reference to Hamas. Calling Hamas leader, Yahya Sinwar, "the Hitler of our times," he said, "Today, you are also about to grant privileges and rights to the future terror state of Hamas. You have opened up the United Nations for modern day Nazis, to the Hitler of our times." Also read | Gaza war: Israel's use of US-supplied weapons may have violated international law, says Washington Holding up an image of Sinwar, Erdan further added, "I present to you the future outcome of today's vote...the soon-to-be President, Yahya Sinwar, President tyrant of the State of Hamas, sponsored by the UN, and he owes his deepest gratitude to you, the General Assembly." This is the future president of the terrorist state that the UN is promoting‼️ I showed the ambassadors the picture of Yahya Sinwar and made clear: in the future you will have to explain why you did everything to give today's Nazis a state of terror. Watch and retweet >> pic.twitter.com/LDLO6PUvQ6 — Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) May 10, 2024 × Israel's Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, echoed Erdan’s sentiments, denouncing the resolution as an "absurd decision" that underlines the UN's "structural bias." He argued that "the message that the UN is sending to our suffering region: violence pays off." "The decision to upgrade the status of Palestinians in the UN is a prize for Hamas terrorists after they committed the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust." On the other side, Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour welcomed the resolution as a significant step forward for Palestine's international recognition and stated that the Palestinian Authority would pursue full membership through the Security Council. However, this move is likely to face a US veto, mirroring a similar veto in April that blocked a resolution from advancing. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli envoy dramatically shreds UN charter in protest of Palestine membership resolution. Watch!

Israel on Saturday (May 11) released evacuation orders for Palestinians in several areas of Gaza's southern city of Rafah and asked them to progress towards an expanded humanitarian area in Al-Mawasi, indicating its further plans to expand ground offensive on the city.

Taking to social media platform X, a military spokesperson urged the residents and the displaced living in the Jabalia area of northern Gaza, and 11 other neighbourhoods in the enclave to immediately head to the shelters west of Gaza City. 
 
As per reports, the IDF&nbsp;published a map marking some&nbsp;sectors of the city as “dangerous combat zone” and warned civilians,&nbsp;“Everyone in these areas is risking their lives and the lives of their family members. For your safety — we ask you to evacuate immediately to the humanitarian zone.”

As per the Palestinian news agency WAFA, 24 Palestinians lost their lives after Israeli jets hit several areas in central Gaza.

Despite several humanitarian groups raising alarm bells, and pressure from the United States, Israel has stated that it will progress with its offensive in Rafah, where over one million displaced people have sought refuge during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.

According to the Israeli military, nearly 300,000 Gazans have moved towards Al-Mawasi.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israels-use-of-us-supplied-weapons-may-have-violated-international-law-says-washington-720237">Gaza war: 'Israel's use of US-supplied weapons may have violated int'l law'</a>

<h2>Hezbollah fires salvo of rockets at Kiryat Shmona</h2>

Meanwhile, Hezbollah on Friday (May 10) fired a salvo of rockets from Lebanon targetting the northern city of Kiryat Shmona. In response, the Israeli military launched a series of retaliatory attacks on the militant group's locations.

The army said that nearly 15 missiles were shot down by the Iron Dome, while the rest hit the city and caused extensive damage to property.

As per The Times Of Israel, the footage released from inside the city showed damaged buildings and vehicles that were burned out.

Reportedly, the rockets also prompted massive fires in the hills along Route 90 and 10 firefighting teams were deployed at the scene, said the Israel Fire and Rescue Services.

The Iran-backed militant group released a statement saying that it fired a barrage of "Katyusha rockets” at Israel’s north “in response to the Israeli enemy’s attacks on… civilians, most recently in Tayr Harfa.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Saturday (May 11) released evacuation orders for Palestinians in several areas of Gaza's southern city of Rafah and asked them to progress towards an expanded humanitarian area in Al-Mawasi, indicating its further plans to expand ground offensive on the city.

Israel on Saturday (May 11) released evacuation orders for Palestinians in several areas of Gaza's southern city of Rafah and asked them to progress towards an expanded humanitarian area in Al-Mawasi, indicating its further plans to expand ground offensive on the city. Taking to social media platform X, a military spokesperson urged the residents and the displaced living in the Jabalia area of northern Gaza, and 11 other neighbourhoods in the enclave to immediately head to the shelters west of Gaza City. As per reports, the IDF published a map marking some sectors of the city as “dangerous combat zone” and warned civilians, “Everyone in these areas is risking their lives and the lives of their family members. For your safety — we ask you to evacuate immediately to the humanitarian zone.” As per the Palestinian news agency WAFA, 24 Palestinians lost their lives after Israeli jets hit several areas in central Gaza. Despite several humanitarian groups raising alarm bells, and pressure from the United States, Israel has stated that it will progress with its offensive in Rafah, where over one million displaced people have sought refuge during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. According to the Israeli military, nearly 300,000 Gazans have moved towards Al-Mawasi. Also read: Gaza war: 'Israel's use of US-supplied weapons may have violated int'l law' Hezbollah fires salvo of rockets at Kiryat Shmona Meanwhile, Hezbollah on Friday (May 10) fired a salvo of rockets from Lebanon targetting the northern city of Kiryat Shmona. In response, the Israeli military launched a series of retaliatory attacks on the militant group's locations. The army said that nearly 15 missiles were shot down by the Iron Dome, while the rest hit the city and caused extensive damage to property. As per The Times Of Israel, the footage released from inside the city showed damaged buildings and vehicles that were burned out. Reportedly, the rockets also prompted massive fires in the hills along Route 90 and 10 firefighting teams were deployed at the scene, said the Israel Fire and Rescue Services. The Iran-backed militant group released a statement saying that it fired a barrage of "Katyusha rockets” at Israel’s north “in response to the Israeli enemy’s attacks on… civilians, most recently in Tayr Harfa.” (With inputs from agencies)

Israel orders evacuation from more areas in Rafah, presses ahead with ground offensive

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (May 9) issued a veiled response to the latest move by the United States on weapon supplies as he said&nbsp;that Israel was prepared to "stand alone" in its war in Gaza.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden announced earlier that his administration would not support Israel and halt the supply of some weapons if it launched an operation against Hamas in populated parts of the southern Gaza city of Rafah, a city in southern Gaza where around 1.4 million people are sheltering.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hamas-and-israel-teams-leave-egypt-amid-ongoing-mediation-efforts-719808">Gaza war: Hamas and Israel teams leave Egypt amid 'ongoing' mediation efforts</a>&nbsp;

Without mentioning the US, Netanyahu said on the eve of Israel's Independence Day, marking the end of the 1948 Arab-Israeli war, that back then "we were few against many". He added, "If we have to stand alone, we will stand alone."&nbsp;

"As I have already said, if we must, we shall fight with our fingernails. But we have much more than our fingernails, and with that strength of spirit, with God's help, together we shall be victorious," he said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protests-trinity-college-dublin-agrees-to-students-demand-of-divesting-from-israeli-firms-719608">Pro-Palestinian protests: Trinity College Dublin to divest from Israeli firms</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;How is Gaza war shaping US politics?

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Earlier this week, Israeli tanks took control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt as Netanyahu moved on with the ground invasion despite rising international pressure to commit to a truce.&nbsp;

The Israeli PM said that he has not yet authorised forces to enter the city, where Israel claims four battalions of Hamas fighters are headquartered.&nbsp;

"We are on the eve of Independence Day. In the War of Independence 76 years ago, we were the few against the many. We did not have weapons. There was an arms embargo on Israel, but with great strength of spirit, heroism and unity among us – we were victorious," Netanyahu said in his video address.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (May 9) issued a veiled response to the latest move by the United States on weapon supplies as he said that Israel was prepared to "stand alone" in its war in Gaza.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (May 9) issued a veiled response to the latest move by the United States on weapon supplies as he said that Israel was prepared to "stand alone" in its war in Gaza. US President Joe Biden announced earlier that his administration would not support Israel and halt the supply of some weapons if it launched an operation against Hamas in populated parts of the southern Gaza city of Rafah, a city in southern Gaza where around 1.4 million people are sheltering. Also read: Gaza war: Hamas and Israel teams leave Egypt amid 'ongoing' mediation efforts Without mentioning the US, Netanyahu said on the eve of Israel's Independence Day, marking the end of the 1948 Arab-Israeli war, that back then "we were few against many". He added, "If we have to stand alone, we will stand alone." "As I have already said, if we must, we shall fight with our fingernails. But we have much more than our fingernails, and with that strength of spirit, with God's help, together we shall be victorious," he said. Also read: Pro-Palestinian protests: Trinity College Dublin to divest from Israeli firms Watch: How is Gaza war shaping US politics? × Earlier this week, Israeli tanks took control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt as Netanyahu moved on with the ground invasion despite rising international pressure to commit to a truce. The Israeli PM said that he has not yet authorised forces to enter the city, where Israel claims four battalions of Hamas fighters are headquartered. "We are on the eve of Independence Day. In the War of Independence 76 years ago, we were the few against the many. We did not have weapons. There was an arms embargo on Israel, but with great strength of spirit, heroism and unity among us – we were victorious," Netanyahu said in his video address. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas war: Netanyahu says Israel ready to 'stand alone' and 'fight with fingernails'

Just a day after US President Joe Biden issued his starkest warning yet against a full ground invasion in Rafah, Israel on Thursday (May 9) bombarded areas of the populous city.

This comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed Biden's threat to withhold weapons from his country if it assaults the Southern Gaza City.

<h2>Israel to proceed with its operation in Gaza</h2>

Late on Thursday, a senior Israeli official, as per Reuters, stated that indirect negotiations in Cairo aimed at ceasing hostilities had concluded without a ceasefire agreement. The country will now continue its military operations in Rafah and other areas, as per plan, he said.&nbsp;

Israel has communicated its reservations regarding Hamas's proposed terms for a hostage release, said the official.

In a video statement, Netanyahu emphasised Israel's resolve, stating, "If we need to ... we will stand alone. If we must, we shall fight with our fingernails."

"But we have much more than our fingernails," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-war-netanyahu-says-israel-ready-to-stand-alone-and-will-fight-with-fingernails-719873">Hamas war: Netanyahu says Israel ready to 'stand alone' and 'will fight with fingernails'</a>

The situation in Rafah worsened as Israeli forces launched attacks. In one airstrike on two homes in the Sabra neighbourhood, at least 12 people, including women and children, were killed.&nbsp;

Reuters reports that this includes a senior commander from the Al-Mujahedeen Brigades and his family. As per the group, the family of another group leader, medics, and relatives were also killed in the strike.

Another attack near a mosque killed at least three people and wounded several others.

Palestinian militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad said their fighters responded by targeting Israeli tanks with anti-tank rockets and mortars on the eastern outskirts of the city.&nbsp;

Rafah is the biggest urban area in Gaza, not yet overrun by Israeli forces. Due to this, it has become the refuge for displaced Gazans from other bombarded areas with its population swelling to hundreds of thousands.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hamas-and-israel-teams-leave-egypt-amid-ongoing-mediation-efforts-719808">Gaza war: Hamas and Israel teams leave Egypt amid 'ongoing' mediation efforts</a>

<h2>In the US</h2>

The White House reiterated its position that a full-scale military operation in Rafah would not help Israel achieve its strategic goals.

US spokesperson John Kirby emphasised the significant pressure already on Hamas and suggested other strategies to target the group's leadership that would pose less risk to civilians.

"Smashing into Rafah, in [President Biden's] view, will not advance," Israel's aim of defeating the Hamas, he said.

The conflict has already caused substantial casualties, with Gaza's health ministry reporting nearly 35,000 deaths and around 80,000 injuries, mostly among civilians.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Just a day after US President Joe Biden issued his starkest warning yet against a full ground invasion in Rafah, Israel on Thursday (May 9) bombarded areas of the populous city.

Just a day after US President Joe Biden issued his starkest warning yet against a full ground invasion in Rafah, Israel on Thursday (May 9) bombarded areas of the populous city. This comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed Biden's threat to withhold weapons from his country if it assaults the Southern Gaza City. Israel to proceed with its operation in Gaza Late on Thursday, a senior Israeli official, as per Reuters, stated that indirect negotiations in Cairo aimed at ceasing hostilities had concluded without a ceasefire agreement. The country will now continue its military operations in Rafah and other areas, as per plan, he said. Israel has communicated its reservations regarding Hamas's proposed terms for a hostage release, said the official. In a video statement, Netanyahu emphasised Israel's resolve, stating, "If we need to ... we will stand alone. If we must, we shall fight with our fingernails." "But we have much more than our fingernails," he added. Also read | Hamas war: Netanyahu says Israel ready to 'stand alone' and 'will fight with fingernails' The situation in Rafah worsened as Israeli forces launched attacks. In one airstrike on two homes in the Sabra neighbourhood, at least 12 people, including women and children, were killed. Reuters reports that this includes a senior commander from the Al-Mujahedeen Brigades and his family. As per the group, the family of another group leader, medics, and relatives were also killed in the strike. Another attack near a mosque killed at least three people and wounded several others. Palestinian militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad said their fighters responded by targeting Israeli tanks with anti-tank rockets and mortars on the eastern outskirts of the city. Rafah is the biggest urban area in Gaza, not yet overrun by Israeli forces. Due to this, it has become the refuge for displaced Gazans from other bombarded areas with its population swelling to hundreds of thousands. Also read | Gaza war: Hamas and Israel teams leave Egypt amid 'ongoing' mediation efforts In the US The White House reiterated its position that a full-scale military operation in Rafah would not help Israel achieve its strategic goals. US spokesperson John Kirby emphasised the significant pressure already on Hamas and suggested other strategies to target the group's leadership that would pose less risk to civilians. "Smashing into Rafah, in [President Biden's] view, will not advance," Israel's aim of defeating the Hamas, he said. The conflict has already caused substantial casualties, with Gaza's health ministry reporting nearly 35,000 deaths and around 80,000 injuries, mostly among civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

Despite Biden's warning, Israel continues its invasion of Rafah, kills over 15 in airstrikes

A Hamas official on Thursday (May 9) accused Israel of carrying out incursions in Gaza's southernmost city of Rafah in order to block talks, which are aimed at finalising a truce in the ongoing Gaza war.&nbsp;

In a statement, Ezzat al-Rishq said that Israel's military operations in Rafah and its border crossing "aim to obstruct the efforts of the mediators". He further added that Hamas, however, was still committed to "accepting the (ceasefire) proposal presented by the mediators".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Egypt's state-linked Al-Qahera News reported that Hamas and Israeli negotiators left Cairo Thursday "after a two-day round of negotiations" for the truce.&nbsp;

Citing a high-level Egyptian source, the media outlet reported that the efforts by Egyptian, Qatari and US mediators "are ongoing to bring the two sides' points of view closer".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protests-trinity-college-dublin-agrees-to-students-demand-of-divesting-from-israeli-firms-719608">Pro-Palestinian protests: Trinity College Dublin to divest from Israeli firms</a>&nbsp;

Amid truce talks, a heavy plume of smoke was seen coming out of northern Gaza on Thursday shortly before humanitarian aid was airdropped into the area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a report by the news agency reuters, footage filmed from southern Israel showed several destroyed buildings including a mosque.&nbsp;Nearby in southern Israel, Israeli soldiers and tanks were deployed.&nbsp;

<h2>UK calls for 'clear plan' for Rafah&nbsp;</h2>

On Thursday, British Foreign Secretary David Cameron issued a message to Israel, stating that the United Kingdom will not back the Rafah operation "without a clear plan to save lives".&nbsp;

Cameron indicated that the UK would not follow the United States in warning Israel that it would halt sales of arms that could be used in an assault on the Gaza city of Rafah.&nbsp;

While speaking to the reporters after a speech in which he urged NATO partners to boost defence spending that there was "a very fundamental difference" between the UK and the US.&nbsp;

He said, "The US is a massive state supplier of weapons to Israel. We do not have a UK government supply of weapons to Israel, we have a number of licences, and I think our defence exports to Israel are responsible for significantly less than one per cent of their total.

"That is a big difference," Cameron added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-just-wrong-biden-issues-most-direct-warning-to-israel-against-rafah-invasion-719507">Israel reacts to Biden's most direct warning against full blown Rafah invasion</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Aid departs from Cyprus&nbsp;</h2>

Cyprus' foreign minister said that a shipment of humanitarian aid left a port in Cyprus on Thursday morning and was on its way to the US-built pier in Gaza. It was the first delivery to the newly built ramp.&nbsp;

The officials said that the US-flagged Sagamore left the port of Larnaca in the morning. US officials have said the vessel will be used to offload supplies onto a floating pier built to expedite aid into the besieged enclave.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US halts weapons shipment to Israel amid concern over Rafah invasion

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Cyprus opened a sea channel in March to send aid directly to Gaza, where land deliveries have been severely hampered by border closures and Israel's military operation.&nbsp;

The US military has been constructing a temporary pier to boost aid deliveries to Gaza. The Pentagon said on April 29 that cost of the construction will cost Washington at least $320 million.&nbsp;

Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh told journalists, "That's about our rough estimate right now, approximately $320 million." Singh added, "That's an initial cost for the temporary pier."&nbsp;

Once the pier is constructed, aid will be transported via commercial vessels to a floating platform miles off the Gaza coast. After that, it will be transferred to smaller vessels, brought to the pier and taken to land by truck for distribution.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A Hamas official on Thursday (May 9) accused Israel of carrying out incursions in Gaza's southernmost city of Rafah in order to block talks, which are aimed at finalising a truce in the ongoing Gaza war.

A Hamas official on Thursday (May 9) accused Israel of carrying out incursions in Gaza's southernmost city of Rafah in order to block talks, which are aimed at finalising a truce in the ongoing Gaza war. In a statement, Ezzat al-Rishq said that Israel's military operations in Rafah and its border crossing "aim to obstruct the efforts of the mediators". He further added that Hamas, however, was still committed to "accepting the (ceasefire) proposal presented by the mediators". Meanwhile, Egypt's state-linked Al-Qahera News reported that Hamas and Israeli negotiators left Cairo Thursday "after a two-day round of negotiations" for the truce. Citing a high-level Egyptian source, the media outlet reported that the efforts by Egyptian, Qatari and US mediators "are ongoing to bring the two sides' points of view closer". Also read: Pro-Palestinian protests: Trinity College Dublin to divest from Israeli firms Amid truce talks, a heavy plume of smoke was seen coming out of northern Gaza on Thursday shortly before humanitarian aid was airdropped into the area. In a report by the news agency reuters, footage filmed from southern Israel showed several destroyed buildings including a mosque. Nearby in southern Israel, Israeli soldiers and tanks were deployed. UK calls for 'clear plan' for Rafah On Thursday, British Foreign Secretary David Cameron issued a message to Israel, stating that the United Kingdom will not back the Rafah operation "without a clear plan to save lives". Cameron indicated that the UK would not follow the United States in warning Israel that it would halt sales of arms that could be used in an assault on the Gaza city of Rafah. While speaking to the reporters after a speech in which he urged NATO partners to boost defence spending that there was "a very fundamental difference" between the UK and the US. He said, "The US is a massive state supplier of weapons to Israel. We do not have a UK government supply of weapons to Israel, we have a number of licences, and I think our defence exports to Israel are responsible for significantly less than one per cent of their total. "That is a big difference," Cameron added. Also read: Israel reacts to Biden's most direct warning against full blown Rafah invasion Aid departs from Cyprus Cyprus' foreign minister said that a shipment of humanitarian aid left a port in Cyprus on Thursday morning and was on its way to the US-built pier in Gaza. It was the first delivery to the newly built ramp. The officials said that the US-flagged Sagamore left the port of Larnaca in the morning. US officials have said the vessel will be used to offload supplies onto a floating pier built to expedite aid into the besieged enclave. Watch: US halts weapons shipment to Israel amid concern over Rafah invasion × Cyprus opened a sea channel in March to send aid directly to Gaza, where land deliveries have been severely hampered by border closures and Israel's military operation. The US military has been constructing a temporary pier to boost aid deliveries to Gaza. The Pentagon said on April 29 that cost of the construction will cost Washington at least $320 million. Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh told journalists, "That's about our rough estimate right now, approximately $320 million." Singh added, "That's an initial cost for the temporary pier." Once the pier is constructed, aid will be transported via commercial vessels to a floating platform miles off the Gaza coast. After that, it will be transferred to smaller vessels, brought to the pier and taken to land by truck for distribution. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Hamas and Israel teams leave Egypt amid 'ongoing' mediation efforts

The police in the German capital city Berlin, on Tuesday (May 7) broke up a protest by several hundred pro-Palestinian activists at Berlin’s Free University. This comes as the pro-Palestinian protests which began and are continuing on campuses across the United States are now spreading to universities in Europe.&nbsp;

Countries like&nbsp;Finland, Denmark, Italy, Spain, France and the United Kingdom have also&nbsp; witnessed pro-Palestinian&nbsp;protests&nbsp;on universities&nbsp;campuses.&nbsp;Protesters have called on officials to cut academic ties with Israel over its ongoing war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.

<h2>Protests at German universities&nbsp;</h2>

Berlin Police, on Tuesday, broke a protest by several hundred pro-Palestinian demonstrators who had set up an encampment, earlier in the day, in the courtyard of Berlin’s Free University and formed a human chain around it.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protesters-storm-streets-near-the-met-gala-nabbed-by-nypd-youre-enjoying-met-gala-718746">Pro-Palestinian protesters barred from reaching Met Gala; burn American flag, vandalise WWI memorial</a>

The law enforcement officials were seen carrying protesters amid scuffles and even used pepper spray against some of them.&nbsp;Officials at Free University said protesters attempted to enter rooms and lecture halls to occupy them and rejected any kind of dialogue which prompted them to call the police.

German news agency, dpa, reported about 50 pro-Palestinian protesters set up tents on campus of the Leipzig University and occupied a lecture hall, on Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp;

<h2>University of&nbsp;Amsterdam</h2>

A massive protest erupted in the Dutch capital on Tuesday as a crowd of several hundred people marched and blocked downtown streets chanting “Free, Free Palestine!”

This was after the Dutch riot police used a bulldozer to knock down barricades at an encampment on Tuesday morning at Amsterdam University and detained around 140 people.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Students and staff describe the use of pepper spray, police batons, police dogs and bulldozers to forcefully remove them. People were injured because of this excessive violence,” said a group called Dutch Scholars for Palestine, in a statement.&nbsp;

The University of Amsterdam said that they called the police after what began as a peaceful student protest turned violent, with beatings, the throwing of fireworks and the burning of an Israeli flag.

All but four protesters, who were charged with public violence and insulting an officer were still in detention, while others were released.&nbsp;

The police noted that the action was taken after requests from the university and the mayor were ignored. One officer had suffered hearing damage, but it is unclear how many other people may have been injured, said the police.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the police in the French capital twice intervened to&nbsp;disperse about 20 students who had barricaded themselves in the university's main hall. According to prosecutors, two people were arrested.&nbsp;

<h2>University of Lausanne</h2>

In&nbsp;Switzerland, protests which began at the University of Lausanne (UNIL), spread to&nbsp;three universities across the country, reported AFP. Hundreds of students occupied a&nbsp;hall Thursday evening and demanded&nbsp;an end to partnerships with Israeli universities.

However, the university said&nbsp;it "considers that there is no reason to cease these relations".&nbsp;

<h2>University of Chicago&nbsp;</h2>

The police, on early Tuesday, cleared out a pro-Palestinian encampment set up at the University of Chicago as hundreds of protesters had gathered in an area known as the Quad for over a week.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-pillories-canada-for-glorifying-violence-after-khalistani-imageries-displayed-at-nagar-kirtan-parade-719080">India pillories Canada for 'glorifying violence' after Khalistani imageries displayed at nagar kirtan parade</a>

“The protesters were given an opportunity to disassemble their structures and depart the encampment, and there have been no arrests,” school President Paul Alivisatos, adding that “appropriate, disciplinary action will proceed.”

Ahead of the police action on Tuesday morning, the number of protesters on campus had increased to more than 200.&nbsp;

<h2>MIT&nbsp;</h2>

The protesters at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) were given a Monday afternoon deadline to voluntarily leave or face suspension.&nbsp;

A report by the Associated Press citing an MIT spokesperson at the institute said many had left, but as of Monday night dozens of protesters remained at the encampment in a calmer atmosphere.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The police in the German capital city Berlin, on Tuesday (May 7) broke up a protest by several hundred pro-Palestinian activists at Berlin’s Free University. This comes as the pro-Palestinian protests which began and are continuing on campuses across the United States are now spreading to universities in Europe.

The police in the German capital city Berlin, on Tuesday (May 7) broke up a protest by several hundred pro-Palestinian activists at Berlin’s Free University. This comes as the pro-Palestinian protests which began and are continuing on campuses across the United States are now spreading to universities in Europe. Countries like Finland, Denmark, Italy, Spain, France and the United Kingdom have also witnessed pro-Palestinian protests on universities campuses. Protesters have called on officials to cut academic ties with Israel over its ongoing war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. Protests at German universities Berlin Police, on Tuesday, broke a protest by several hundred pro-Palestinian demonstrators who had set up an encampment, earlier in the day, in the courtyard of Berlin’s Free University and formed a human chain around it. Also Read | Pro-Palestinian protesters barred from reaching Met Gala; burn American flag, vandalise WWI memorial The law enforcement officials were seen carrying protesters amid scuffles and even used pepper spray against some of them. Officials at Free University said protesters attempted to enter rooms and lecture halls to occupy them and rejected any kind of dialogue which prompted them to call the police. German news agency, dpa, reported about 50 pro-Palestinian protesters set up tents on campus of the Leipzig University and occupied a lecture hall, on Tuesday afternoon. University of Amsterdam A massive protest erupted in the Dutch capital on Tuesday as a crowd of several hundred people marched and blocked downtown streets chanting “Free, Free Palestine!” This was after the Dutch riot police used a bulldozer to knock down barricades at an encampment on Tuesday morning at Amsterdam University and detained around 140 people. “Students and staff describe the use of pepper spray, police batons, police dogs and bulldozers to forcefully remove them. People were injured because of this excessive violence,” said a group called Dutch Scholars for Palestine, in a statement. The University of Amsterdam said that they called the police after what began as a peaceful student protest turned violent, with beatings, the throwing of fireworks and the burning of an Israeli flag. All but four protesters, who were charged with public violence and insulting an officer were still in detention, while others were released. The police noted that the action was taken after requests from the university and the mayor were ignored. One officer had suffered hearing damage, but it is unclear how many other people may have been injured, said the police. On Tuesday, the police in the French capital twice intervened to disperse about 20 students who had barricaded themselves in the university's main hall. According to prosecutors, two people were arrested. University of Lausanne In Switzerland, protests which began at the University of Lausanne (UNIL), spread to three universities across the country, reported AFP. Hundreds of students occupied a hall Thursday evening and demanded an end to partnerships with Israeli universities. However, the university said it "considers that there is no reason to cease these relations". University of Chicago The police, on early Tuesday, cleared out a pro-Palestinian encampment set up at the University of Chicago as hundreds of protesters had gathered in an area known as the Quad for over a week. Also Read | India pillories Canada for 'glorifying violence' after Khalistani imageries displayed at nagar kirtan parade “The protesters were given an opportunity to disassemble their structures and depart the encampment, and there have been no arrests,” school President Paul Alivisatos, adding that “appropriate, disciplinary action will proceed.” Ahead of the police action on Tuesday morning, the number of protesters on campus had increased to more than 200. MIT The protesters at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) were given a Monday afternoon deadline to voluntarily leave or face suspension. A report by the Associated Press citing an MIT spokesperson at the institute said many had left, but as of Monday night dozens of protesters remained at the encampment in a calmer atmosphere. (With inputs from agencies)

Pro-Palestinian student protests spark clashes, arrests as campus demonstrations spread across Europe

After the collapse of the ceasefire agreement that Hamas had previously agreed to, further negotiations are scheduled to begin in Cairo on Wednesday (May 8). Representatives from Hamas and the Israeli delegation have arrived in the Egyptian capital.

Meanwhile, Israel continues to strike Rafah and the Gaza Strip. The UN secretary-general warned that an Israeli attack on Rafah would be 'a strategic mistake, a political calamity, and a humanitarian nightmare'.

Here's a look at the latest updates:

<h2>IDF says&nbsp;30 Hamas militants killed in eastern Rafah operation</h2>

About 30 Hamas militants were killed in eastern Rafah as a result of an operation carried out by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), the Israeli military said as reported by i24news.&nbsp;

<h2>WHO says&nbsp;South Gaza's health services have only 3 days of fuel left</h2>

The World Health Organization reported on Wednesday that there is only enough fuel to run health services in Gaza's south for three more days. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have sought safety in Gaza's south. According to the WHO, a delivery of fuel to the area had been denied on Wednesday.

"WHO has pre-positioned in some supplies in warehouses and hospitals, but without more aid flowing into Gaza, we cannot sustain our life saving support to hospitals," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. He added that WHO will coninue to provide health services in the area.

<h2>Top foreign officials&nbsp;denounce&nbsp;Israel's military operation in eastern Rafah.</h2>

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock wrote on X, “One million people cannot vanish into thin air. They need protection. They urgently need more humanitarian aid. To this end, the Rafah and Kerem Shalom border crossings must be reopened immediately.”

Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said on Wednesday that "Australia has been clear about our objections to a major Israeli ground offensive into Rafah, and we have reiterated this to Israel again today."

"The impact&nbsp;on Palestinian civilians from an expanded military operation would be devastating," she added.

Qatar also condemned "in the strongest terms the Israeli occupation forces' bombardment of the Rafah governorate, invasion of the land crossing and threat to displace citizens from shelter and housing centres."

In a post on X, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it "strongly condemns" both the Israeli military's "control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing" and the "attack" on Rafah.

On Tuesday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov called the situation in Rafah as a "humanitarian disaster," as reported by TASS.

<h2>Roughly 50,000 people fled Rafah in the last 48 hours, says UNRWA official</h2>

According to a top official at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), "roughly 50,000 people" have fled the southern Gazan city of Rafah in the previous 48 hours as a result of Israel's evacuation order.&nbsp;

“We tracked roughly 50,000 people departing Rafah in the last 48 hours. We've seen them go to Khan Younis, some have gone to the expanded humanitarian area of Al-Mawasi, others have gone to Deir al-Balah,” the senior deputy director of UNRWA affairs in Gaza, Scott Anderson, told CNN.

Residents of eastern Rafah started to leave on Monday after the Israeli military gave the order to "evacuate immediately" as it launched a military operation in the region.&nbsp;

“We think as the UN that people should choose where they want to go and we will provide aid to them wherever they decide to seek shelter with their families,” he added.

<h2>Police clear&nbsp;encampment from&nbsp;George Washington University,&nbsp;over 30 students arrested</h2>

Shortly after hundreds of demonstrators left the area and marched to the university's president Ellen Granberg's house, US police started clearing up a pro-Palestinian tent encampment at George Washington University in Washington, DC.

According to local media reports, about 30 individuals were arrested when police pepper sprayed several demonstrators as they tried to enter the encampment.&nbsp;

The university's independent student-run newspaper, GW Hatchet, reported "at about 3.30am (10:30 GMT), officers gave demonstrators their third and final warning to move, saying all who remained... in front of the plaza would be arrested."

<h2>African Union&nbsp;criticises&nbsp;Israel's military incursion into Rafah</h2>

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The African Union&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;Israel's military incursion into Rafah in southern Gaza on Wednesday, urging the international community to put an end to "this deadly escalation" of the war.

AU Commission chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat "firmly condemns the extension of this war to the Rafah crossing," a statement read. The statement came after Israeli tanks seized a vital passage for humanitarian aid into the Palestinian territory.

He "expresses his extreme concern at the war undertaken by Israel in Gaza which results, at every moment, in massive deaths and systematic destruction of the conditions of human life," the statement read. "He calls on the entire international community to effectively coordinate collective action to stop this deadly escalation," it added.

<h2>Israel reopens vital Kerem Shalom border crossing for Gaza humanitarian aid</h2>

Israel announced on Wednesday (May 8) that it has reopened the Kerem Shalom border crossing for humanitarian supplies to Gaza, four days after closing it in response to a missile strike that killed four military personnel.

According to the Israeli military, Egyptian lorries carrying food, water, and medication have arrived at the border. The UN raised concern on Tuesday over Israel's "choking off" of Gaza's two main aid arteries.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that he was "disturbed and distressed" by Israel's move. 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

After the collapse of the ceasefire agreement that Hamas had previously agreed to, further negotiations are scheduled to begin in Cairo on Wednesday (May 8). Representatives from Hamas and the Israeli delegation have arrived in the Egyptian capital.

After the collapse of the ceasefire agreement that Hamas had previously agreed to, further negotiations are scheduled to begin in Cairo on Wednesday (May 8). Representatives from Hamas and the Israeli delegation have arrived in the Egyptian capital. Meanwhile, Israel continues to strike Rafah and the Gaza Strip. The UN secretary-general warned that an Israeli attack on Rafah would be 'a strategic mistake, a political calamity, and a humanitarian nightmare'. Here's a look at the latest updates: IDF says 30 Hamas militants killed in eastern Rafah operation About 30 Hamas militants were killed in eastern Rafah as a result of an operation carried out by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), the Israeli military said as reported by i24news. WHO says South Gaza's health services have only 3 days of fuel left The World Health Organization reported on Wednesday that there is only enough fuel to run health services in Gaza's south for three more days. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have sought safety in Gaza's south. According to the WHO, a delivery of fuel to the area had been denied on Wednesday. "WHO has pre-positioned in some supplies in warehouses and hospitals, but without more aid flowing into Gaza, we cannot sustain our life saving support to hospitals," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. He added that WHO will coninue to provide health services in the area. Top foreign officials denounce Israel's military operation in eastern Rafah. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock wrote on X, “One million people cannot vanish into thin air. They need protection. They urgently need more humanitarian aid. To this end, the Rafah and Kerem Shalom border crossings must be reopened immediately.” Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said on Wednesday that "Australia has been clear about our objections to a major Israeli ground offensive into Rafah, and we have reiterated this to Israel again today." "The impact on Palestinian civilians from an expanded military operation would be devastating," she added. Qatar also condemned "in the strongest terms the Israeli occupation forces' bombardment of the Rafah governorate, invasion of the land crossing and threat to displace citizens from shelter and housing centres." In a post on X, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it "strongly condemns" both the Israeli military's "control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing" and the "attack" on Rafah. On Tuesday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov called the situation in Rafah as a "humanitarian disaster," as reported by TASS. Roughly 50,000 people fled Rafah in the last 48 hours, says UNRWA official According to a top official at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), "roughly 50,000 people" have fled the southern Gazan city of Rafah in the previous 48 hours as a result of Israel's evacuation order. “We tracked roughly 50,000 people departing Rafah in the last 48 hours. We've seen them go to Khan Younis, some have gone to the expanded humanitarian area of Al-Mawasi, others have gone to Deir al-Balah,” the senior deputy director of UNRWA affairs in Gaza, Scott Anderson, told CNN. Residents of eastern Rafah started to leave on Monday after the Israeli military gave the order to "evacuate immediately" as it launched a military operation in the region. “We think as the UN that people should choose where they want to go and we will provide aid to them wherever they decide to seek shelter with their families,” he added. Police clear encampment from George Washington University, over 30 students arrested Shortly after hundreds of demonstrators left the area and marched to the university's president Ellen Granberg's house, US police started clearing up a pro-Palestinian tent encampment at George Washington University in Washington, DC. According to local media reports, about 30 individuals were arrested when police pepper sprayed several demonstrators as they tried to enter the encampment. The university's independent student-run newspaper, GW Hatchet, reported "at about 3.30am (10:30 GMT), officers gave demonstrators their third and final warning to move, saying all who remained... in front of the plaza would be arrested." African Union criticises Israel's military incursion into Rafah The African Union criticised Israel's military incursion into Rafah in southern Gaza on Wednesday, urging the international community to put an end to "this deadly escalation" of the war. AU Commission chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat "firmly condemns the extension of this war to the Rafah crossing," a statement read. The statement came after Israeli tanks seized a vital passage for humanitarian aid into the Palestinian territory. He "expresses his extreme concern at the war undertaken by Israel in Gaza which results, at every moment, in massive deaths and systematic destruction of the conditions of human life," the statement read. "He calls on the entire international community to effectively coordinate collective action to stop this deadly escalation," it added. Israel reopens vital Kerem Shalom border crossing for Gaza humanitarian aid Israel announced on Wednesday (May 8) that it has reopened the Kerem Shalom border crossing for humanitarian supplies to Gaza, four days after closing it in response to a missile strike that killed four military personnel. According to the Israeli military, Egyptian lorries carrying food, water, and medication have arrived at the border. The UN raised concern on Tuesday over Israel's "choking off" of Gaza's two main aid arteries. UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that he was "disturbed and distressed" by Israel's move. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war updates: 30 Hamas militants killed in Israel’s Rafah operation, says IDF

A ceasefire deal in the intensifying war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip hangs on a loose thread, with a fresh round of negotiations taking place in the Egyptian capital city of Cairo on Tuesday (May 7) after ceasefire talks in Doha failed to produce an agreement.

A ceasefire deal in the intensifying war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip hangs on a loose thread, with a fresh round of negotiations taking place in the Egyptian capital city of Cairo on Tuesday (May 7) after ceasefire talks in Doha failed to produce an agreement. Cairo is hosting delegates from Qatar, the United States, and the Palestinian militant group, Hamas to try and reach a comprehensive truce in Gaza, reported Egypt's state-affiliated Al-Qahera News TV, citing a high-ranking source. Qatar had previously said that it would send a delegation to Cairo to resume negotiations and hope that "talks will culminate in reaching an agreement for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The statement comes hours after Hamas said it informed mediators Egypt and Qatar of its "approval of their proposal regarding a ceasefire" in the war, which has been going on for seven months. Also Read | Humanitarian aid flow impacted as Israeli forces take control of Gaza side of Rafah crossing A team of mid-ranking Israeli officials arrives in Cairo to see whether Hamas can be persuaded to shift on its latest ceasefire offer. This comes after the Israeli government said that the proposal was far from Israel's "essential demands", but the government would send negotiators for talks "to exhaust the potential for arriving at an agreement." Meanwhile, Israel has seemingly intensified operations after United Nations agencies, on Tuesday reported that the two main crossings into the southern Gaza Strip are closed, which has virtually cut off any outside aid from entering the enclave. "The two main arteries for getting aid into Gaza are currently choked off," said a UN official referring to the Rafah and Kerem Shalom crossings, which Israel has closed for aid and people. He added, that the enclave has just a one-day buffer of fuel stocks. "If no fuel comes in for a prolonged period of time it would be a very effective way of putting the humanitarian operation in its grave," said UN agency humanitarian office spokesperson Jens Laerke. Here's a look at the latest updates on the Gaza war, and the upcoming truce talks: 1) A senior Hamas official told AFP that a delegation from the Palestinian group was due to leave for truce talks in Cairo and warned: "This will be the last chance for (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu and the families of the Zionist prisoners to return their children". 2) Netanyahu, in his speech on Tuesday evening, said the Rafah operation is meant to bring back the hostages and to eliminate Hamas and the latest ceasefire deal was "meant to sabotage the entry of our forces into Rafah." 3) The Israeli PM also said that Hamas' latest offer is "very far from Israel’s vital demands" and "cannot accept a proposal that endangers the safety of our citizens and the future of our country." He has instructed the Israeli negotiating team currently in Cairo to "stand firmly". 4) On Tuesday, the Israeli military said that it had captured the Gazan side of the Rafah crossing. Addressing a press conference, an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson said, "We have operational control of the area and the crossing." 5) Israeli government calls on international organisations to evacuate Rafah. UN humanitarian office spokesperson, Laerke said "panic and despair" were gripping the people in Rafah. 6) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on Israel to "immediately" re-open the Rafah and Karem Shalom crossings and urged the Jewish state to "stop any escalation". He also said that a "full-scale assault" on Rafah would be a "human catastrophe." 7) Palestinian and Egyptian officials said that Israeli tanks had entered Rafah. Also Read | Pro-Palestinian protesters barred from reaching Met Gala; burn American flag, vandalise WWI memorial 8) The US in its first response to Israel's Rafah operation told Reuters, "We continue to believe that a hostage deal is in the best interest of the Israeli and the Palestinian people; it would bring an immediate ceasefire and allow increased humanitarian assistance into Gaza." 9) Israeli operation in Gaza’s Rafah city marks another war crime by Israel, said Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz, on Tuesday. 10) The Palestinian Authority called on the United States to "intervene immediately" to prevent Israel from invading Rafah, reported the Palestinian news agency WAFA. (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.

Gaza War: Hamas truce offer is ‘very far’ from Israeli demands, says Netanyahu

Israeli forces on Tuesday (May 7) seized control of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt. Tanks pushed into Rafah, marking it Israel's first ground incursion into the southern Gazan city. The Rafah crossing is the main entry point for humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

The United Nations said that the Israeli authorities have denied access to it.&nbsp;Wael Abu Omar, who is a spokesman for the Palestinian Crossings Authority, said the crossing&nbsp;was out of service.&nbsp;

"The whole western area (of Rafah) has become a theatre of operations since yesterday. The bombardment has not stopped," said Abu Omar as reported by the news agencies.&nbsp;

He added that crews have fled the facilities because of the bombing.&nbsp;Omar added that the travel and the flow of aid into the Strip via Rafah have "stopped completely".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-live-updates-israel-says-it-has-captured-palestinian-side-of-rafah-crossing-718823">Gaza war: Palestinian Authority calls on US to 'intervene immediately'</a>

Hamas said on Monday that it had accepted a Gaza ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar, and later accused Israel of trying to undermine the truce talks taking place in Cairo by mounting the offensive.&nbsp;

The ground invasion began a day after Israel warned Palestinians in the area to evacuate. More than one million people sought refuge from months of Israeli bombardment in Rafah, and the military's thrust was said to be catastrophic amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation.&nbsp;

People took refuge in Rafah. They were living in tented camps and makeshift shelters. On being ordered by the Israeli side, many are trying to leave. But they have nowhere safe to go.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-times-reuters-win-pulitzer-prizes-for-hamass-oct-7-attack-and-israeli-response-718827">New York Times, Reuters win Pulitzer Prizes for coverage of Hamas's Oct 7 attack and Israeli response</a>

In army footage, tanks with Israeli flags were seen taking "operational control" of the Palestinian side of the border crossing, in a deployment that had a "very limited scope against very specific targets".&nbsp;

Rafah was also rocked by heavy bombardments overnight, with the Kuwaiti hospital saying that 23 people were killed. The Najjar hospital said another four people were killed, AFP reported.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israeli tanks and planes also attacked several areas and houses there overnight. The Gaza health ministry said Israeli strikes across the enclave had killed 54 Palestinians and wounded 96 others in the past 24 hours.

The Israeli military said a limited operation in Rafah was meant to kill fighters and dismantle infrastructure used by Hamas, which governs Gaza.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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<h2>UN on Rafah crossing</h2>

Jens Laerke, who is the spokesman for the UN's humanitarian agency OCHA, said there was only a one-day buffer of fuel to run humanitarian operations inside the besieged Palestinian territory.&nbsp;

"We currently do not have any physical presence at the&nbsp;Rafah&nbsp;crossing as our access... has been denied by COGAT," he said, referring to the Israeli agency that oversees supplies into the Palestinian territories.

"We have been told there will be no crossings of personnel or goods in or out for the time being. That has a massive impact on how much stock do we have."

"There's a very, very short buffer of one day of fuel available."

"As fuel only comes in through&nbsp;Rafah, the one day buffer is for the entire operation in Gaza."

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli forces on Tuesday (May 7) seized control of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt. Tanks pushed into Rafah, marking it Israel's first ground incursion into the southern Gazan city.

Israeli forces on Tuesday (May 7) seized control of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt. Tanks pushed into Rafah, marking it Israel's first ground incursion into the southern Gazan city. The Rafah crossing is the main entry point for humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. The United Nations said that the Israeli authorities have denied access to it. Wael Abu Omar, who is a spokesman for the Palestinian Crossings Authority, said the crossing was out of service. "The whole western area (of Rafah) has become a theatre of operations since yesterday. The bombardment has not stopped," said Abu Omar as reported by the news agencies. He added that crews have fled the facilities because of the bombing. Omar added that the travel and the flow of aid into the Strip via Rafah have "stopped completely". Also read: Gaza war: Palestinian Authority calls on US to 'intervene immediately' Hamas said on Monday that it had accepted a Gaza ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar, and later accused Israel of trying to undermine the truce talks taking place in Cairo by mounting the offensive. The ground invasion began a day after Israel warned Palestinians in the area to evacuate. More than one million people sought refuge from months of Israeli bombardment in Rafah, and the military's thrust was said to be catastrophic amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation. People took refuge in Rafah. They were living in tented camps and makeshift shelters. On being ordered by the Israeli side, many are trying to leave. But they have nowhere safe to go. Also read: New York Times, Reuters win Pulitzer Prizes for coverage of Hamas's Oct 7 attack and Israeli response In army footage, tanks with Israeli flags were seen taking "operational control" of the Palestinian side of the border crossing, in a deployment that had a "very limited scope against very specific targets". Rafah was also rocked by heavy bombardments overnight, with the Kuwaiti hospital saying that 23 people were killed. The Najjar hospital said another four people were killed, AFP reported. Meanwhile, Israeli tanks and planes also attacked several areas and houses there overnight. The Gaza health ministry said Israeli strikes across the enclave had killed 54 Palestinians and wounded 96 others in the past 24 hours. The Israeli military said a limited operation in Rafah was meant to kill fighters and dismantle infrastructure used by Hamas, which governs Gaza. Watch this report: × UN on Rafah crossing Jens Laerke, who is the spokesman for the UN's humanitarian agency OCHA, said there was only a one-day buffer of fuel to run humanitarian operations inside the besieged Palestinian territory. "We currently do not have any physical presence at the Rafah crossing as our access... has been denied by COGAT," he said, referring to the Israeli agency that oversees supplies into the Palestinian territories. "We have been told there will be no crossings of personnel or goods in or out for the time being. That has a massive impact on how much stock do we have." "There's a very, very short buffer of one day of fuel available." "As fuel only comes in through Rafah, the one day buffer is for the entire operation in Gaza." Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Humanitarian aid flow impacted as Israeli forces take control of Gaza side of Rafah crossing

Hamas said on Monday (May 6) that it had accepted a Gaza ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar, hours after Israel announced a plan to evacuate 100,000 Palestinians from Rafah, hinting at starting its offensive after nearly seven months of war.

Hamas said on Monday (May 6) that it had accepted a Gaza ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar, hours after Israel announced a plan to evacuate 100,000 Palestinians from Rafah, hinting at starting its offensive after nearly seven months of war. Hamas did not share the terms of the truce formally, but a senior Hamas member Khalil al-Hayya said on Monday that the proposal includes a three-stage truce with the goal of a lasting ceasefire. Hayya divulged details to the Qatar-based Al Jazeera channel, stating that each phase would last 42 days. According to him, the deal includes plans for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and an exchange of hostages and prisoners. the deal would also guarantee the return of Palestinians displaced by the ongoing war, with the aim of a "permanent ceasefire". Also read: Israeli jets strike two Rafah areas ahead of ground invasion: Hamas Hamas's announcement came moments after the White House said that US President Joe Biden held a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In a statement published on its official website, the militant group said, "Ismail Haniyeh, head of the political bureau of Hamas movement, conducted a telephone call with the prime minister of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and with the Egyptian intelligence minister, Mr Abbas Kamel, and informed them of Hamas's approval of their proposal regarding a ceasefire agreement." After the announcement, a senior Hamas official said that Israel must decide whether it accepts or "obstructs" a truce in Gaza. While speaking to the news agency AFP on condition of anonymity, the official said, "After Hamas agreed to the mediators' proposal for a ceasefire, the ball is now in the court of Israeli occupation, whether it will agree to the ceasefire agreement or obstruct it." Also read: Putin’s nuclear drills orders response to ‘unprecedented’ comments from West: Kremlin Meanwhile, the Times of Israel reported that Israeli officials have warned against accepting the announcement made by the Palestine-based militant group. Israel cautioned that the offer Hamas says it accepted is not the one it agreed to. Officials told networks Kan, 12 and 13 that the terms Hamas accepted are different to what Israel agreed to. The offer Hamas has accepted is apparently made unilaterally by Egypt. It is not being taken seriously in Jerusalem before the details are clarified, the networks mentioned. A senior Israeli official spoke to AFP, reiterating that it was not the "framework" Israel had previously agreed to, but he mentioned that the government was studying the proposal. "We have received the proposal and are reviewing it. It is not the framework that was agreed upon. We are examining it," the official told AFP on condition of anonymity. Celebrations were seen in the streets of Gaza after Hamas claimed to accept a ceasefire agreement. Watch this report: × Rafah evacuation order Despite Hamas saying it had approved the truce proposal, Israel's army late Monday reiterated its call for evacuations in Rafah. "We also call on residents this evening to evacuate," military spokesman Daniel Hagari said in a broadcast address after the Hamas announcement. Hagari added that "airforce aircraft targeted more than 50 terror targets in the Rafah area" throughout the day Monday. Fears are also looming over a possible invasion of Rafah, where more than one million people have sought refuge from months of Israeli bombardment, which will be catastrophic. Meanwhile, the UN rights chief said Monday that Israel's order for Palestinians to evacuate from eastern Rafah in Gaza is "inhumane" and warned that the offensive would push suffering and destruction beyond already "unbearable" levels. Volker Turk further said forcing hundreds of thousands of people to flee to areas with almost no access to aid for survival was "inconceivable". Biden-Netanyahu talks The White House also said that Biden "reiterated his clear position" to Netanyahu after Israel defied US warnings and told Palestinians to evacuate part of the southern Gaza city of Rafah. It added that Netanyahu, meanwhile, "agreed to ensure the Kerem Shalom crossing is open for humanitarian assistance for those in need". Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel cautions after Hamas says it accepts ceasefire proposal of Egypt and Qatar

Hopes for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip are dimming but a fresh round of negotiations will take place in Qatar on Monday (May 6). Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director Bill Burns headed to Qatar's capital Doha for "emergency" discussions on mediation in the war.

Hopes for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip are dimming but a fresh round of negotiations will take place in Qatar on Monday (May 6). Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director Bill Burns headed to Qatar's capital Doha for "emergency" discussions on mediation in the war. Burns would continue to stay in Doha as the truce talks drag on and will head to Israel by Tuesday for talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. A Hamas official, meanwhile, said that the group's delegation for truce talks was headed to Doha for consultations. On Sunday, the ceasefire talks in Egypt's Cairo failed to produce a breakthrough. Hamas reiterated that it would not accept a truce that did not completely end the war, accusing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of "personally hindering" a deal. Also read: Israel shuts key border crossing for aid trucks as Hamas fires rockets Prime Minister Netanyahu, meanwhile, hardened his rejection of Hamas' demands for an end to the Gaza war in exchange for the freeing of hostages, saying on Sunday that would keep the Palestinian militant group in power and pose a threat to Israel. These developments came as 16 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip's Rafah city. The airstrikes came hours after Hamas claimed responsibility for a rocket attack near Rafah which Israeli said killed three IDF soldiers and injured 11 more. Also read | Dozens of Jewish sites receive disturbing bomb threat emails in NYC, says report The conflict between Israel and Hamas started in October last year after Hamas launched an assault in southern Israel in which 1,200 people were killed and 252 taken hostage. Israel responded by striking back hard at the Gaza Strip, killing more than 34,000 people. With the outcome of Monday's truce talks unknown, here's a look at the latest updates: US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke on the phone on Monday evening, according to Israeli media. The conversation reportedly lasted half an hour. Gaza officials said Israeli jets have targeted at least two areas in Rafah that the IDF had ordered to be evacuated. "The areas targeted by the Israeli occupation are near the perimeter of Gaza International Airport, the Al-Shuka area, the Abu Halawa area, the Salaheddin street area and the Salam neighbourhood," Gaza civil defence agency spokesman Ahmed Ridwan was quoted as saying by AFP. Another aid official confirmed the strikes. Egypt has reportedly raised its military’s level of preparedness in northern Sinai, which borders the Gaza Strip. EU’s top diplomat Josep Borrell on Monday urged Israel to “renounce” the idea of invading Rafah. In a post on social media, he called on both sides to implement UN security council resolution 2728, which demanded “an immediate ceasefire … by all parties leading to a lasting sustainable ceasefire” and also called for “the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages” and “the lifting of all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale”. Hezbollah said it fired "dozens of Katyusha rockets" at an Israeli base in the occupied Golan Heights on Monday in retaliation for a strike in Lebanon's east. Hezbollah fighters launched "dozens of Katyusha rockets" targeting "the headquarters of the Golan Division... at Nafah base", the group said in a statement. The Israeli military on Monday began evacuating Palestinian civilians from eastern Rafah ahead of a threatened assault on the southern Gazan city. The military said that around 100,000 people were being evacuated. According to local media reports, the evacuations were now focused on a few peripheral districts of Rafah from which evacuees would be directed to tent cities in nearby Khan Younis and Al Muwassi. The military said that the east Rafah evacuation was a "limited scope operation," as it began to drop flyers, send text messages, and make phone calls to Palestinians with instructions on the zones that needed to be evacuated, and which routes to take to a designated humanitarian zone. Hamas called the evacuation plan a “dangerous escalation that will have consequences.” At least 16 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip's Rafah, AFP reported on Monday citing medics and first responders. The airstrikes came hours after Hamas claimed responsibility for a rocket attack near Rafah which Israeli said killed three Israeli soldiers and injured 11 more. The Israeli military confirmed the counter-strike, saying it struck the launcher from which the Hamas projectiles were fired, as well as a nearby "military structure." The military said 10 projectiles were launched from Rafah in southern Gaza towards the area of Kerem Shalom, which it said was now closed. 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. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Families of hostages rally again in Tel Aviv (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Biden speaks to Netanyahu as Israeli jets strike two Rafah areas, 10 key points

Columbia University on Monday (May 6) announced that it has cancelled the main ceremony for graduating students next week amid the protests on campus by students over the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;

The prestigious university in the United States stated that it would "forego the university-wide ceremony that is scheduled for May 15" and hold a series of smaller events instead.&nbsp;

"We have decided to make the centerpiece of our commencement activities our Class Days and school-level ceremonies, where students are honoured individually alongside their peers, rather than the University-wide ceremony that is scheduled for May 15," Columbia said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-updates-ceasefire-negotiations-to-begin-in-qatar-today-718328">Israeli jets strike two Rafah areas ahead of ground invasion: Hamas</a>&nbsp;

Columbia called the past few weeks "incredibly difficult for our community" and further said that they are "determined to give our students the celebration they deserve and "smaller-scale, school-based celebrations are most meaningful to them and their families".&nbsp;

"We will focus our resources on those school ceremonies and on keeping them safe, respectful, and running smoothly. A great deal of effort is already underway to reach that goal," the university added.&nbsp;

The statement further added that the school consulted with student leaders in deciding how to handle graduation. The majority of the ceremonies, which had been set to take place on the Morningside Heights campus where most of the protests have taken place, will be moved to the university's main athletic complex.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-orders-of-nuclear-drills-response-to-unprecedented-comments-from-west-718498">Putin’s nuclear drills orders response to ‘unprecedented’ comments from West: Kremlin</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Protest at Columbia University&nbsp;</h2>

The violent protest at Columbia University drew national attention with former United States president Donald Trump even comparing it to the January 6 Capitol attack.&nbsp;

The protest at Columbia University inspired similar demonstrations at dozens of universities around the US, with students calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and demanding their schools divest from companies with ties to Israel.&nbsp;

New York City police cleared a Columbia campus building last week that had been barricaded by pro-Palestinian protesters, arresting more than 100 people and dismantling an encampment.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Israel moving ahead of Gaza offensive?

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Meanwhile, the White House said on Monday that US President Joe Biden will speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after Israel's military called for Palestinians to evacuate eastern Rafah ahead of an offensive in the southern Gaza city.&nbsp;

"We can't speak for IDF operations. We have made our views clear on a major ground invasion of Rafah to the Israeli government, and the president will speak with the prime minister today," a spokesman for the National Security Council told the news agency AFP.

"We continue to believe that a hostage deal is the best way to preserve the lives of the hostages, and avoid an invasion of Rafah, where more than a million people are sheltering.

"Those talks are ongoing now."&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Columbia University on Monday (May 6) announced that it has cancelled the main ceremony for graduating students next week amid the protests on campus by students over the ongoing war in Gaza.

Columbia University on Monday (May 6) announced that it has cancelled the main ceremony for graduating students next week amid the protests on campus by students over the ongoing war in Gaza. The prestigious university in the United States stated that it would "forego the university-wide ceremony that is scheduled for May 15" and hold a series of smaller events instead. "We have decided to make the centerpiece of our commencement activities our Class Days and school-level ceremonies, where students are honoured individually alongside their peers, rather than the University-wide ceremony that is scheduled for May 15," Columbia said in a statement. Also read: Israeli jets strike two Rafah areas ahead of ground invasion: Hamas Columbia called the past few weeks "incredibly difficult for our community" and further said that they are "determined to give our students the celebration they deserve and "smaller-scale, school-based celebrations are most meaningful to them and their families". "We will focus our resources on those school ceremonies and on keeping them safe, respectful, and running smoothly. A great deal of effort is already underway to reach that goal," the university added. The statement further added that the school consulted with student leaders in deciding how to handle graduation. The majority of the ceremonies, which had been set to take place on the Morningside Heights campus where most of the protests have taken place, will be moved to the university's main athletic complex. Also read: Putin’s nuclear drills orders response to ‘unprecedented’ comments from West: Kremlin Protest at Columbia University The violent protest at Columbia University drew national attention with former United States president Donald Trump even comparing it to the January 6 Capitol attack. The protest at Columbia University inspired similar demonstrations at dozens of universities around the US, with students calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and demanding their schools divest from companies with ties to Israel. New York City police cleared a Columbia campus building last week that had been barricaded by pro-Palestinian protesters, arresting more than 100 people and dismantling an encampment. Watch: Israel moving ahead of Gaza offensive? × Meanwhile, the White House said on Monday that US President Joe Biden will speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after Israel's military called for Palestinians to evacuate eastern Rafah ahead of an offensive in the southern Gaza city. "We can't speak for IDF operations. We have made our views clear on a major ground invasion of Rafah to the Israeli government, and the president will speak with the prime minister today," a spokesman for the National Security Council told the news agency AFP. "We continue to believe that a hostage deal is the best way to preserve the lives of the hostages, and avoid an invasion of Rafah, where more than a million people are sheltering. "Those talks are ongoing now." Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Columbia University’s main graduation ceremony cancelled due to Gaza protests

Sixteen people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip's Rafah city, the news agency AFP reported early Monday (May 6), citing medics and first responders.

Sixteen people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip's Rafah city, the news agency AFP reported early Monday (May 6), citing medics and first responders. "The toll of martyrs in Rafah reached 16," emergency first responders told AFP, adding that seven people from one family and nine from another family were killed in the Israeli attacks. Medical sources, meanwhile, confirmed two strikes they said took place at two different locations around Rafah. 'Three Israeli soldiers killed in Hamas attack' The airstrikes came hours after Hamas claimed responsibility for a rocket attack near Rafah which Israel said killed three of its soldiers and injured 11 more. Hamas' armed wing said it fired rockets at an Israeli army base by the Kerem Shalom crossing into Gaza. Also read | Israel cabinet votes to shut down Al Jazeera offices in country; Hamas reacts The Israeli military confirmed the counter-strike, saying it struck the launcher from which the Hamas projectiles were fired, as well as a nearby "military structure." The military said 10 projectiles were launched from Rafah in southern Gaza towards the area of Kerem Shalom, which it said was now closed for aid trucks going into the coastal enclave. Other crossings remained open. "The launches carried out by Hamas adjacent to the Rafah Crossing ... are a clear example of the terrorist organisation's systematic exploitation of humanitarian facilities and spaces and their continued use of the Gazan civilian population as human shields," the military added. Hamas delegation to be in Qatar for truce talks Sunday's attacks came as hopes dimmed for ceasefire talks between the warring factions. A Hamas official said that the group's delegation for Gaza truce talks in Cairo was leaving for "consultations" in Qatar after public disagreement with Israel intensified over demands to end their seven-month war. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × The official, who chose to remain anonymous, told AFP that "the meeting with the Egyptian intelligence minister has ended and the Hamas delegation is leaving for Doha for further consultations." Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said "surrendering" to a demand to end the war would amount to defeat. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: 16 killed in Israeli airstrikes in Rafah following rocket attack by Hamas

Seven months since the October 7 Hamas attack last year, Israel continues to inflict pain on the Palestinians ignoring proportionality, a fundamental principle of the International Laws of Armed Conflict.

Seven months since the October 7 Hamas attack last year, Israel continues to inflict pain on the Palestinians ignoring proportionality, a fundamental principle of the International Laws of Armed Conflict. Nothing seems to stop them. They bash on regardless of a UN resolution to stop the assault, domestic demands from within Israel, gathering angst from the world over, cases at ICJ and ICC or increasing threat of sanctions. Likewise, nothing seems to deter the Houthis from continuing their wanton destruction in the Red Sea in response to the Israeli offensive against Palestinians. Even Operation Prosperity Guardian led by the US Navy, involving several other modern navies has not borne fruit. News that the US has appealed to Iran to rein in the Houthis was bad enough an indicator of the world’s helplessness. Subsequent reports about the US offer to remove the Houthis from a terror list as quid pro quo for peace in the Red Sea prove the world’s impotence in deterring committed adversaries who are willing to die to win their goals. Tim Lenderking, President Joe Biden’s special envoy for Yemen removed any lingering hope when he admitted on April 3 that the US favours a diplomatic solution and that they “know that there is no military solution”. As per media reports, US aircraft carrier Dwight Eisenhower deployed with great fanfare in the Red Sea has left the area and several navies including the US Navy are only escorting high-value ships through the area now. This is an important reality for international trade. The merchant marine has no option but to co-exist with perennial strife in the foreseeable future. As of now, there is no light at the end of the tunnel. Here is why. Several other factors combine with perennial strife to form an uncomfortable new normal for ships at sea. First among them is the inevitable dependence on choke points where ships become easy targets owing to restrictions that constricted spaces and traffic density place on their movements at these points. Second, is the ease of targeting as ship identities, positions and details of their traverse cannot be hidden near choke points and live updates on them can easily be fed to adversaries. Third, is the easy availability of low-cost, over-the-shelf or indigenous technologies and materials that completely preclude any chance the world may have in preventing the unwanted proliferation of modern non-traditional weapons and ordnance delivery platforms. Fourth, is the impending shift of anti-shipping offensives to the underwater realm, buoyed by the success of Ukraine’s surface and below-surface drones which drove the mighty Russian Navy away from the operationally important parts of the Black Sea. Fifth, is the multitude of conflicts and potential conflicts that abound the worldover, mostly embers from the age of European colonialism which can be fanned to infernos at will. That non-state actors dominate several of these conflicts further increases the degree of difficulty for states or global organisations like the UN in resolving them. All these combine well to form a highly incendiary mix in an increasingly right-wing world which is intent on questioning history and undoing the ‘wrongs’ of the past. With no limits on the distance to travel into the past to unearth new grievances, new trouble spots are sure to emerge. What does this mean for the merchant marine? After all, there are no military solutions. A massive whole-world approach that combines diplomatic, technological, economic, social and military measures, that draw deeply from history stands the best chance of success. Though underwater warfare on trade started at the beginning of WW I, it manifested in its most destructive form only in WW II. It is unsettling to recollect that the single largest campaign that ran throughout the duration of WW II was the Battle of the Atlantic, where German U Boats kept sinking Allied shipping. It started at the beginning of the war and ended only when Germany capitulated. How is this relevant today? Firstly, while it was Germany, a formal state, that inflicted losses on the allies with wanton destruction using submarines during WW 2, today it is Houthis, a non-state actor, difficult to be held accountable. Secondly, submarines were large, manned, craft whose deployment and actions were inevitably influenced by the need to provide a reasonable chance of survival to the crew during action. No such baggage restricts anti-ship surface or sub-surface drones. Thirdly, submarines were large enough craft that gave some chance for their adversaries to detect and avoid or destroy them. Small surface or sub-surface drones have much less vulnerability. So what do we do to protect seaborne trade? Firstly, the world must accept that even the best navies have no foolproof solution to protect even themselves from underwater attacks using drones, especially in large numbers. Secondly, we must learn from history. Every material and tactical countermeasure that has been developed from the early part of the 20th century, right up to the lessons of the previous bout of piracy off the Somalian coast needs to be considered for increasing the survivability of ships. Some of these lessons must be incorporated right from the design stage for merchant ships. Thirdly, multi-modal operations need to be developed to reduce dependence on volatile choke points to the extent possible. Fourthly, governments the worldover have to assume direct responsibility and mandate the above steps as these steps cost money and if left to the corporate world they wouldn’t act optimally for profitability considerations. Last but not the least, fighting navies must make serious adjustments to force structuring, operations and training to meet the new threat. Ocean shipping is an international treasure. It is time the world went back to the drawing board to improve the survivability of merchant ships and the military capabilities of navies in handling underwater attacks. However, what must take the utmost preference is the fact that the non-military solutions stand the best chance of bringing lasting solutions. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

International shipping – set for perennial hard times

Negotiations for a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza are under way in Cairo, sources said after a delegation of the Palestinian militant group Hamas arrived in Egypt on Saturday (May 4) for the latest round of talks on a proposed truce and hostage release in Gaza, the news agency AFP reported citing Egyptian media.

Negotiations for a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza are under way in Cairo, sources said after a delegation of the Palestinian militant group Hamas arrived in Egypt on Saturday (May 4) for the latest round of talks on a proposed truce and hostage release in Gaza, the news agency AFP reported citing Egyptian media. The mediators have already rejected Hamas’s demand for Russia, China and Turkey to be the guarantors of a ceasefire deal, reported The National citing sources. The Hamas delegation led by Khalil Al Hayah and including Zahed Gabreen, a confidante of Yahya Sinwar, arrived in Cairo on Saturday to resume the truce talks after months of negotiations failed. Zahed Gabreen, a senior group official and a confidante of Yahya Sinwar, is also in the delegation. According to a source in the Egyptian intelligence service, there has been significant progress in the negotiations between Hamas and Israel, and that the Egyptian mediators have "reached an agreed-upon formula on most points of contention." Also read | Israeli forces will enter Rafah ‘with or without’ Gaza hostage deal, says PM Netanyahu Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and the Palestinian militant group took hundreds of Israelis as hostages. This led to Israeli forces striking back hard at the Gaza Strip, killing more than 34,000 people, injuring tens of thousands, and displacing over a million civilians. Here's a look at the latest updates: > A report in the Palestinian Al-Quds newspaper on Saturday said that Hamas would announce its approval of the latest proposal for a ceasefire and hostage release deal in the coming hours. > The latest proposal (in the ceasefire agreement) includes a first phase lasting up to 40 days in which up to 33 of 128 Israeli hostages held in Gaza would be released along with IDF withdrawal from parts of Gaza, a report by the Times of Israel said. > The second phase, which would last for 42 days, would see the release of all other living hostages and the sides completing arrangements for sustainable calm in Gaza. > The third and final phase, which would also last for 42 days, would see an exchange of bodies. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × > On Friday, Hamas said in a statement, "We emphasise the positive spirit with which the Hamas leadership dealt with the ceasefire proposal it recently received, and we are going to Cairo in the same spirit to reach an agreement." > The Gaza Health Ministry has denounced the passing of a prominent Palestinian physician in an Israeli detention facility following over four months of imprisonment. In a statement on X, it said that “the torture and assassination” of Dr Adnan al-Barash was the latest example of Israel’s “continued violation of international conventions in dealing with the health sector and medical personnel during its aggression against Gaza”. > On Friday, Hamas also accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of trying to derail the proposed ceasefire, and hostage release deal with his threats to keep fighting the militants. > "Netanyahu was the obstructionist of all previous rounds of dialogue... and it is clear that he still is," a Hamas official told AFP. Al-Amal hospital continues to operate ‘partially’: Red Crescent The Palestine Red Crescent Society shared a video showing a hospital in Khan Younis and the nearby areas damaged by Israeli airstrikes. The video revealed destroyed buildings and lots of rubble everywhere. At least 5 dead in Israeli raid in occupied West Bank The Palestinian Health Ministry stated that Israeli forces allegedly killed five people during a raid on the town of Deir al-Ghusun in Tulkarem district. According to the ministry's Telegram channel, four of those killed were aged between 32 and 45. This report follows the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Deir al-Ghusun after a 15-hour raid that resulted in fatalities. Students in Switzerland join Gaza protests Around 100 students took over a building at Lausanne University as a form of protest against the conflict in Gaza. They called for an halt to scientific collaboration with Israel. Israeli official: Hamas' war end demand 'thwarting' truce efforts In another statement within hours, a diplomatic source once more rejects claims that Israel will accept a hostage-for-truce deal with Hamas, which involves Israel committing to end the conflict in Gaza. The source also refutes reports suggesting Israel will agree to mediators providing assurances for ending the war, as cited by the Times of Israel. Hamas’ Osama Hamdan on ongoing truce talks “We are still talking about the main issues, which are the complete ceasefire and complete withdrawal [of Israel] from Gaza. We hope we can find some positive answers today.” “Unfortunately, there was a clear statement from Netanyahu saying regardless of any ceasefire or not he’ll continue the attack against Rafah – which means there will be no ceasefire. Our understanding to achieve a ceasefire means there will be no more attacks anywhere in Gaza, including Rafah.” “We have to talk about the real position of the United States because that is the main issue that will affect the position of the Israelis, mainly Netanyahu. Guarantees are important, but we need a clear statement that clarifies the positions of each side. Because as we all know, the Israelis are trying every time to get out of their commitments,” Hamdan, a Hamas spokesman, told Al Jazeera over a phone call. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Negotiations underway in Cairo to secure new ceasefire deal | Top points

Hamas on late Saturday (May 4) said that it would not accept a truce deal that did not completely end the war in the Gaza Strip. The Palestinian militant group accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of "personally hindering" a deal.

Hamas on late Saturday (May 4) said that it would not accept a truce deal that did not completely end the war in the Gaza Strip. The Palestinian militant group accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of "personally hindering" a deal. On Saturday, a Hamas delegation met Qatari, Egyptian, and US mediators in Egypt's Cairo in the latest bid to halt the war which started in October last year. According to a report by the news agency AFP, a senior Hamas official said on Saturday that the group would "not agree under any circumstances" to a truce that did not explicitly include a complete end to the war, including Israel's withdrawal from Gaza. Also read | Gaza hospital staff questioned by ICC war crimes prosecutors: Report The official, who chose to remain anonymous, condemned Israel's efforts to secure a hostage-release deal "without linking it to ending the aggression on Gaza". Meanwhile, a top Israeli official earlier accused Hamas of "thwarting the possibility of reaching an agreement" by refusing to give up its demand for an end to the war, AFP reported. Thousands of Israelis protest, demand PM should accept truce As the meeting in Cairo took place, thousands of Israelis protested in Tel Aviv, demanding that Netanyahu should accept the truce deal with Hamas that would see the remaining Israeli hostages brought home from Gaza. At the rally, relatives and supporters of the more than 130 hostages still in captivity said anything possible had to be done to bring them home, the news agency Reuters reported. Also watch | Why has Netanyahu failed to secure the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza war so far? × On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, killing 1,200 Israelis and foreigners and hundreds of Israelis were taken as hostages. In response, Israel struck back hard at the Gaza Strip, destroying large swathes of the enclave and killing more than 34,000 people. The latest truce proposal The latest proposal (in the ceasefire agreement) includes a first phase lasting up to 40 days in which up to 33 of 128 Israeli hostages held in Gaza would be released along with IDF withdrawal from parts of Gaza, a report by the Times of Israel said. The second phase, which would last for 42 days, would see the release of all other living hostages and the sides completing arrangements for sustainable calm in Gaza. The third and final phase, which would also last for 42 days, would see an exchange of bodies. (With inputs from agencies)

Will not accept truce deal that doesn't completely end Gaza war: Hamas

The Israeli military on Sunday (May 5) shut the Kerem Shalom border crossing for humanitarian aid trucks, which is one of the most important routes into southern Gaza after rockets were fired towards the gateway.

The Israeli army said that 10 missiles were launched from Rafah in southern Gaza towards the crossing.

The army however said that only the Kerem Shalom was shut and the rest remained open.

"Approximately 10 projectile launches were identified crossing from the area adjacent to the Rafah Crossing toward the area of Kerem Shalom," the army said in a statement, adding that the "Kerem Shalom Crossing is currently closed to the passage of humanitarian aid trucks".

Later, Hamas claimed responsibility for the attack which as per Israeli and Palestinian local media reports resulted in Israeli casualties.

The armed wing of the Palestinian militant group said that it launched an air offensive targeting the Israeli army base by the crossing.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahus-cabinet-unanimously-votes-to-shut-down-al-jazeera-offices-in-israel-718195">Israel cabinet votes to shut down Al Jazeera offices in country; Hamas reacts</a>

However, the group did not share details about where it fired the rockets from.

As per the news agency Reuters, Hamas media quoted a source close to the Palestinian Islamist group saying the commercial crossing was not the target.&nbsp;

<h2>'Ending Gaza war now would keep Hamas in power,' says Netanyahu&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (May 5) hardening his stance on the demands put forward by Hamas proposing an end to the war in Gaza in exchange for hostages, said that this would keep the Palestinian militant group in power.

However, he said that Israel was ready to halt the fighting in order to secure the release of hostages held captive by Hamas, which according to media reports are still numbered over 130.

"But while Israel has shown willingness, Hamas remains entrenched in its extreme positions, first among them the demand to remove all our forces from the Gaza Strip, end the war, and leave Hamas in power," Netanyahu said.

"Israel cannot accept that."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli military on Sunday (May 5) shut the Kerem Shalom border crossing for humanitarian aid trucks, which is one of the most important routes into southern Gaza after rockets were fired towards the gateway.

The Israeli military on Sunday (May 5) shut the Kerem Shalom border crossing for humanitarian aid trucks, which is one of the most important routes into southern Gaza after rockets were fired towards the gateway. The Israeli army said that 10 missiles were launched from Rafah in southern Gaza towards the crossing. The army however said that only the Kerem Shalom was shut and the rest remained open. "Approximately 10 projectile launches were identified crossing from the area adjacent to the Rafah Crossing toward the area of Kerem Shalom," the army said in a statement, adding that the "Kerem Shalom Crossing is currently closed to the passage of humanitarian aid trucks". Later, Hamas claimed responsibility for the attack which as per Israeli and Palestinian local media reports resulted in Israeli casualties. The armed wing of the Palestinian militant group said that it launched an air offensive targeting the Israeli army base by the crossing. Also read: Israel cabinet votes to shut down Al Jazeera offices in country; Hamas reacts However, the group did not share details about where it fired the rockets from. As per the news agency Reuters, Hamas media quoted a source close to the Palestinian Islamist group saying the commercial crossing was not the target. 'Ending Gaza war now would keep Hamas in power,' says Netanyahu Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (May 5) hardening his stance on the demands put forward by Hamas proposing an end to the war in Gaza in exchange for hostages, said that this would keep the Palestinian militant group in power. However, he said that Israel was ready to halt the fighting in order to secure the release of hostages held captive by Hamas, which according to media reports are still numbered over 130. "But while Israel has shown willingness, Hamas remains entrenched in its extreme positions, first among them the demand to remove all our forces from the Gaza Strip, end the war, and leave Hamas in power," Netanyahu said. "Israel cannot accept that." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel shuts key border crossing for aid trucks as Hamas fires rockets

A delegation of the Palestinian group Hamas landed in Cairo on Saturday to resume talks on a ceasefire deal in Gaza after months of negotiations failed to be fruitful, reported local media.

A delegation of the Palestinian group Hamas landed in Cairo on Saturday to resume talks on a ceasefire deal in Gaza after months of negotiations failed to be fruitful, reported local media. Egyptian state-linked Al Qahera News Television quoted a high-ranking source as saying that "there is significant progress in the negotiations" between the Palestinian militant group and Israel, and that the Egyptian mediators have "reached an agreed-upon formula on most points of contention." Palestinian militant group Hamas said on late Friday (May 3) that its delegation would travel to Cairo on Saturday to resume Gaza ceasefire talks with Israel. In a statement, Hamas said, "We emphasise the positive spirit with which the Hamas leadership dealt with the ceasefire proposal it recently received, and we are going to Cairo in the same spirit to reach an agreement." "We in Hamas and the Palestinian resistance forces are determined to achieve an agreement that fulfils our people's demands for a complete cessation of the aggression, the withdrawal of the occupation forces, the return of the displaced, relief and reconstruction, and a serious exchange deal," it added. Also read | Pro-Palestine protests: Graduation ceremonies at US universities may see walkouts Hamas' remarks came as foreign mediators have been waiting for a response from the group to halt the fighting for 40 days and exchange hostages for Palestinian prisoners. 'Netanyahu is still the obstructionist' While Hamas has demanded a lasting ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to crush its remaining fighters in Rafah. On Friday, a top Hamas official accused Netanyahu of trying to derail a proposed Gaza truce and hostage release deal with his threats to keep fighting the militants, the news agency AFP reported. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × "Netanyahu was the obstructionist of all previous rounds of dialogue... and it is clear that he still is," the official added. Rafah offensive could lead to bloodbath: WHO On Friday, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned that Israel's offensive in Rafah could lead to a "bloodbath." In a post on X, WHO's Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, "WHO is deeply concerned that a full-scale military operation in Rafah, Gaza, could lead to a bloodbath, and further weaken an already broken health system." The WHO earlier said that most of Gaza's health facilities have been damaged or destroyed amid heavy Israeli bombardment. Only 12 of Gaza's 36 hospitals and 22 of its 88 primary health facilities are "partially functional", the UN health agency added. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Hamas delegation arrives in Cairo for ceasefire talks amid high hopes

Israel-Hamas war: More than 2,000 people, including students, have been arrested on campuses across the United States, as of Friday (May 3) in pro-Palestinian protests over the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

These demonstrations are no longer limited to the US with people and students across the world taking to university campuses, setting up encampments and showing up in large numbers to protest the war in Gaza.&nbsp;

Indians travelling to Iran, Israel asked to&nbsp;'remain vigilant'

Indians travelling to Iran and Israel&nbsp;should "remain vigilant and be in touch with Indian embassies," said&nbsp;Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson&nbsp;Randhir Jaiswal, on Friday.&nbsp;

"We continue to closely monitor the situation in the region. We have also noted that Iran and Israel have opened their airspace for several days now. We advise Indian nationals to remain vigilant while traveling to these countries and be in touch with the Indian Embassy," said the MEA spokesperson while responding to a question by the media.&nbsp;

This comes after the&nbsp;MEA, on April 12, asked&nbsp;Indian citizens not to travel to Israel and Iran "till further notice".&nbsp;

<h2>US 'temporarily paused' work on&nbsp;Gaza pier</h2>

The United States&nbsp;Central Command (CENTCOM) said soldiers “temporarily paused” the work on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/temporary-gaza-pier-to-boost-aid-deliveries-will-cost-us-at-least-320mn-716396">temporary pier</a> to boost aid deliveries to Gaza amid&nbsp;unsafe sea conditions,&nbsp;on Thursday.&nbsp;

"The partially built pier and military vessels involved in its construction have moved to the Port of Ashdod, where assembly will continue, and will be completed prior to the emplacement of the pier in its intended location when sea states subside," said the CENTCOM in a statement, on Friday.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;pier will allow "the delivery of large quantities of humanitarian aid from ship to shore by truck, with vehicles driving directly off ships and across the temporary pier to a marshaling yard ashore," it added.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel to give Hamas a week for ceasefire deal</h2>

Israel has given Hamas one week to agree to the latest deal&nbsp;or warned that it will launch its&nbsp;offensive in Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;

The deal brokered by the US, Egypt and Qatar would see the release of dozens of hostages in exchange for a six-week halt in fighting.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protests-ucla-faculty-joins-ongoing-protests-on-campus-717530">Over 2,100 arrests made in pro-Palestinian protests on US campuses</a>

The report does not mention when the ultimatum was given but cites&nbsp;Egyptian officials speaking, on Friday, suggesting that Hamas will have until next week to answer.&nbsp;

The report comes after&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Tuesday (Apr 30) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-will-enter-rafah-with-or-without-gaza-hostage-deal-says-netanyahu-716734">said</a> Israel will carry out an operation in&nbsp;Rafah regardless of whether a ceasefire and hostage release deal is reached.

<h2>'Far too many' journalists killed in Gaza: Biden</h2>

United States President Joe Biden in a statement for&nbsp;World Press Freedom Day, said "far too many"&nbsp;journalists have been killed amid the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;

"On World Press Freedom Day, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of journalists and media workers around the world risking everything in pursuit of truth," said Biden.&nbsp;

He added, "This is especially resonant today; 2023 was one of the deadliest years for journalists in recent memory. One reason for that is the war in Gaza, where far too many journalists, the vast majority of them Palestinian, have been killed."

<h2>Turkey halts trade with Israel&nbsp;</h2>

Turkey, on Friday, said that it will not resume the more than $7 billion&nbsp;trade with Israel until&nbsp;a permanent ceasefire and humanitarian aid are secured in Gaza.&nbsp;

Israel's "uncompromising attitude" and the worsening situation in&nbsp;Rafah - which Israel has threatened to invade - has prompted Ankara to&nbsp;halt all exports and imports, said Turkey's&nbsp;Trade Minister Omer Bolat.

"We decided to stop exports and imports to and from Israel until a permanent ceasefire is achieved (in Gaza) and humanitarian aid is allowed without interruption," said&nbsp;Bolat.&nbsp;

<h2>Campus protests across the world</h2>

United States

More than 2,000 people have been arrested from dozens of US college campuses in recent weeks, amid the ongoing pro-Palestinian protests, according to a tally by the Associated Press.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Paris: Police raid University students&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/paris-police-raid-university-students-kenya-floods-death-toll-crosses-200-717744/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The police arrested more than 300 protesters on college campuses on Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Around 210 were arrested from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).&nbsp;

The&nbsp;police, on Thursday (May 2) crackdown on defiant pro-Palestinian protesters at several colleges with UCLA witnessing particularly<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-move-in-to-dismantle-ucla-gaza-protest-barricades-717374"> jarring scenes.</a>&nbsp;

France&nbsp;

On Friday, the police in Paris entered France’s prestigious Sciences Po university to remove pro-Palestinian protesters who had occupied the college’s buildings.&nbsp;

A Reuters witness saw police enter the buildings and bring out many of the 70-odd protesters inside. Unlike the US, protests on the French campus have been peaceful, with Sciences Po being the epicentre due to the university’s ties with Israel.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for the university, ahead of the police action, told Reuters that they were seeking to negotiate and “end the standoff”.

Sciences Po’s director Jean Basseres, on Thursday, rejected protesters’ demand to review its ties with Israeli universities.&nbsp;

Jack, one of the students who spent Thursday night occupying one of the main buildings on the campus in central Paris, told Reuters, on Friday morning that protesters had rejected the ultimatum to clear large parts of the building and restrict their movement to a determined smaller area.

Australia

Hundreds of people protesting the ongoing war in Gaza rallied at one of Australia’s top universities on Friday and demanded that it divest from companies with ties to Israel.&nbsp;

Last week, protesters set up encampments near the University of Sydney’s sandstone main hall. Similar protests have sprung up at universities in Melbourne, Canberra and other Australian cities.

The University of Sydney also witnessed dozens of counter-protesters carrying Australian and Israeli flags who had gathered to&nbsp;hear speakers talk about how the pro-Palestinian protests made Jewish students and staff feel unsafe on campus, reported Reuters. The two groups were separated by lines of security guards.&nbsp;

University of Sydney vice-chancellor Mark Scott said that the encampment on campus has been allowed since there has been no violence.&nbsp;

Canada

Top Canadian universities including the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, the University of Ottawa, and Montreal’s McGill University have also witnessed similar pro-Palestinian protests and set up encampments.&nbsp;

Quebec Premier Francois Legault said that the encampment set up at McGill should be dismantled. The university had requested police intervention, but law enforcement did not clear the encampment and said it was monitoring the situation.&nbsp;

The students at Canadian universities have called on their colleges to disclose investments and divest from any which helps Israel, asking them to end partnerships with some Israeli institutes.&nbsp;

Mexico

Dozens of students at Mexico’s largest university, the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), set up an encampment, on Thursday.&nbsp;The students have called on the Mexican government to break diplomatic and commercial ties with Israel.

United Kingdom

Some of the most prominent universities in the United Kingdom have joined the protests&nbsp;against the war in Gaza.&nbsp;Pro-Palestinian protesters in cities like&nbsp;Manchester, Newcastle and Leeds have set up camp outside university buildings.&nbsp;

Ireland

Trinity College Dublin (TCD), one of the top universities in Ireland, fined its students’ union $230,979 over holding protests, including those against the war in Gaza.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-move-in-to-dismantle-ucla-gaza-protest-barricades-717374">Police tear down barricades at UCLA protest encampment</a>&nbsp;

The students on the campus have been protesting against the university’s response to the war in Gaza and proposed course fee hikes and increased accommodation costs.&nbsp;

<h2>Houthis offer education to US students</h2>

Yemen-based Iranian-backed militant group Houthi said that it will offer education to students suspended from US universities for anti-Israel protests, reported Reuters, on Friday.&nbsp;

“We are serious about welcoming students that have been suspended from U.S. universities for supporting Palestinians,” an official at Sanaa University, which is run by the Houthis, told the news agency.&nbsp;

“We are fighting this battle with Palestine in every way we can,” the official added. This comes as several universities in the US have threatened to suspend students over the pro-Palestinian student protests.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: More than 2,000 people, including students, have been arrested on campuses across the United States, as of Friday (May 3) in pro-Palestinian protests over the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.

Israel-Hamas war: More than 2,000 people, including students, have been arrested on campuses across the United States, as of Friday (May 3) in pro-Palestinian protests over the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. These demonstrations are no longer limited to the US with people and students across the world taking to university campuses, setting up encampments and showing up in large numbers to protest the war in Gaza. Indians travelling to Iran, Israel asked to 'remain vigilant' Indians travelling to Iran and Israel should "remain vigilant and be in touch with Indian embassies," said Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, on Friday. "We continue to closely monitor the situation in the region. We have also noted that Iran and Israel have opened their airspace for several days now. We advise Indian nationals to remain vigilant while traveling to these countries and be in touch with the Indian Embassy," said the MEA spokesperson while responding to a question by the media. This comes after the MEA, on April 12, asked Indian citizens not to travel to Israel and Iran "till further notice". US 'temporarily paused' work on Gaza pier The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said soldiers “temporarily paused” the work on the temporary pier to boost aid deliveries to Gaza amid unsafe sea conditions, on Thursday. "The partially built pier and military vessels involved in its construction have moved to the Port of Ashdod, where assembly will continue, and will be completed prior to the emplacement of the pier in its intended location when sea states subside," said the CENTCOM in a statement, on Friday. The pier will allow "the delivery of large quantities of humanitarian aid from ship to shore by truck, with vehicles driving directly off ships and across the temporary pier to a marshaling yard ashore," it added. Israel to give Hamas a week for ceasefire deal Israel has given Hamas one week to agree to the latest deal or warned that it will launch its offensive in Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal. The deal brokered by the US, Egypt and Qatar would see the release of dozens of hostages in exchange for a six-week halt in fighting. Also Read | Over 2,100 arrests made in pro-Palestinian protests on US campuses The report does not mention when the ultimatum was given but cites Egyptian officials speaking, on Friday, suggesting that Hamas will have until next week to answer. The report comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Tuesday (Apr 30) said Israel will carry out an operation in Rafah regardless of whether a ceasefire and hostage release deal is reached. 'Far too many' journalists killed in Gaza: Biden United States President Joe Biden in a statement for World Press Freedom Day, said "far too many" journalists have been killed amid the ongoing war in Gaza. "On World Press Freedom Day, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of journalists and media workers around the world risking everything in pursuit of truth," said Biden. He added, "This is especially resonant today; 2023 was one of the deadliest years for journalists in recent memory. One reason for that is the war in Gaza, where far too many journalists, the vast majority of them Palestinian, have been killed." Turkey halts trade with Israel Turkey, on Friday, said that it will not resume the more than $7 billion trade with Israel until a permanent ceasefire and humanitarian aid are secured in Gaza. Israel's "uncompromising attitude" and the worsening situation in Rafah - which Israel has threatened to invade - has prompted Ankara to halt all exports and imports, said Turkey's Trade Minister Omer Bolat. "We decided to stop exports and imports to and from Israel until a permanent ceasefire is achieved (in Gaza) and humanitarian aid is allowed without interruption," said Bolat. Campus protests across the world United States More than 2,000 people have been arrested from dozens of US college campuses in recent weeks, amid the ongoing pro-Palestinian protests, according to a tally by the Associated Press. WATCH | Paris: Police raid University students The police arrested more than 300 protesters on college campuses on Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Around 210 were arrested from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). The police, on Thursday (May 2) crackdown on defiant pro-Palestinian protesters at several colleges with UCLA witnessing particularly jarring scenes. France On Friday, the police in Paris entered France’s prestigious Sciences Po university to remove pro-Palestinian protesters who had occupied the college’s buildings. A Reuters witness saw police enter the buildings and bring out many of the 70-odd protesters inside. Unlike the US, protests on the French campus have been peaceful, with Sciences Po being the epicentre due to the university’s ties with Israel. A spokesperson for the university, ahead of the police action, told Reuters that they were seeking to negotiate and “end the standoff”. Sciences Po’s director Jean Basseres, on Thursday, rejected protesters’ demand to review its ties with Israeli universities. Jack, one of the students who spent Thursday night occupying one of the main buildings on the campus in central Paris, told Reuters, on Friday morning that protesters had rejected the ultimatum to clear large parts of the building and restrict their movement to a determined smaller area. Australia Hundreds of people protesting the ongoing war in Gaza rallied at one of Australia’s top universities on Friday and demanded that it divest from companies with ties to Israel. Last week, protesters set up encampments near the University of Sydney’s sandstone main hall. Similar protests have sprung up at universities in Melbourne, Canberra and other Australian cities. The University of Sydney also witnessed dozens of counter-protesters carrying Australian and Israeli flags who had gathered to hear speakers talk about how the pro-Palestinian protests made Jewish students and staff feel unsafe on campus, reported Reuters. The two groups were separated by lines of security guards. University of Sydney vice-chancellor Mark Scott said that the encampment on campus has been allowed since there has been no violence. Canada Top Canadian universities including the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, the University of Ottawa, and Montreal’s McGill University have also witnessed similar pro-Palestinian protests and set up encampments. Quebec Premier Francois Legault said that the encampment set up at McGill should be dismantled. The university had requested police intervention, but law enforcement did not clear the encampment and said it was monitoring the situation. The students at Canadian universities have called on their colleges to disclose investments and divest from any which helps Israel, asking them to end partnerships with some Israeli institutes. Mexico Dozens of students at Mexico’s largest university, the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), set up an encampment, on Thursday. The students have called on the Mexican government to break diplomatic and commercial ties with Israel. United Kingdom Some of the most prominent universities in the United Kingdom have joined the protests against the war in Gaza. Pro-Palestinian protesters in cities like Manchester, Newcastle and Leeds have set up camp outside university buildings. Ireland Trinity College Dublin (TCD), one of the top universities in Ireland, fined its students’ union $230,979 over holding protests, including those against the war in Gaza. Also Read | Police tear down barricades at UCLA protest encampment The students on the campus have been protesting against the university’s response to the war in Gaza and proposed course fee hikes and increased accommodation costs. Houthis offer education to US students Yemen-based Iranian-backed militant group Houthi said that it will offer education to students suspended from US universities for anti-Israel protests, reported Reuters, on Friday. “We are serious about welcoming students that have been suspended from U.S. universities for supporting Palestinians,” an official at Sanaa University, which is run by the Houthis, told the news agency. “We are fighting this battle with Palestine in every way we can,” the official added. This comes as several universities in the US have threatened to suspend students over the pro-Palestinian student protests. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel gives Hamas a week to choose between ceasefire deal or Rafah offensive: Report

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (May 2) commented on the nationwide campus protests over the war in Gaza. He said that the US was not authoritarian but&nbsp;"order must prevail".&nbsp;

Biden added that there was "no place" for antisemitism or other hate speech on university campuses as he spoke from the White House in a televised address.&nbsp;

"We are not an authoritarian nation where we silence people or squash dissent," Biden said, further adding, "But neither are we a lawless country".&nbsp;

He added, "We're a civil society, and order must prevail."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rebuilding-gaza-to-at-least-16-years-and-cost-around-30-to-40-billion-un-717472">Rebuilding all homes destroyed in Gaza would take at least 16 years, says UN</a>&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israel's President Isaac Herzog slammed the violent US universities' demonstrations, saying these institutions were "contaminated by hatred and anti-Semitism".&nbsp;

"We see prominent academic institutions, halls of history, culture, and education contaminated by hatred and anti-Semitism fuelled by arrogance and ignorance ... We watch in horror as the atrocities of October 7th against Israel are celebrated and justified," Herzog said in a statement offering support to Jewish students across these universities.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-move-in-to-dismantle-ucla-gaza-protest-barricades-717374">Police tear down barricades at UCLA protest encampment; India urges citizens to 'respect local laws'</a>&nbsp;

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<h2>Gaza truce latest&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Amid the escalating situation in West Asia, a delegation from the Palestinian group Hamas is set to visit Egypt soon for further ceasefire talks.&nbsp;

The group said in a statement on Thursday that Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh had affirmed the group's "positive spirit in studying the ceasefire proposal" in a phone call with Egypt's intelligence chief Abbas Kamel.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (May 2) commented on the nationwide campus protests over the war in Gaza. He said that the US was not authoritarian but "order must prevail".

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (May 2) commented on the nationwide campus protests over the war in Gaza. He said that the US was not authoritarian but "order must prevail". Biden added that there was "no place" for antisemitism or other hate speech on university campuses as he spoke from the White House in a televised address. "We are not an authoritarian nation where we silence people or squash dissent," Biden said, further adding, "But neither are we a lawless country". He added, "We're a civil society, and order must prevail." Also read: Rebuilding all homes destroyed in Gaza would take at least 16 years, says UN Meanwhile, Israel's President Isaac Herzog slammed the violent US universities' demonstrations, saying these institutions were "contaminated by hatred and anti-Semitism". "We see prominent academic institutions, halls of history, culture, and education contaminated by hatred and anti-Semitism fuelled by arrogance and ignorance ... We watch in horror as the atrocities of October 7th against Israel are celebrated and justified," Herzog said in a statement offering support to Jewish students across these universities. Also read: Police tear down barricades at UCLA protest encampment; India urges citizens to 'respect local laws' Watch this report: × Gaza truce latest Amid the escalating situation in West Asia, a delegation from the Palestinian group Hamas is set to visit Egypt soon for further ceasefire talks. The group said in a statement on Thursday that Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh had affirmed the group's "positive spirit in studying the ceasefire proposal" in a phone call with Egypt's intelligence chief Abbas Kamel. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

US student protests: Biden calls for 'order', says 'no place' for antisemitism on any campus

UNESCO&nbsp;on Thursday awarded its world press freedom prize to all Palestinian journalists covering the war in Gaza, where Israel has been battling Hamas for more than six months.

"In these times of darkness and hopelessness, we wish to share a strong message of solidarity and recognition to those Palestinian journalists who are covering this crisis in such dramatic circumstances," said Mauricio Weibel, chair of the international jury of media professionals.

"As humanity, we have a huge debt to their courage and commitment to freedom of expression," he added.

Audrey Azoulay, director general at the UN organisation for education, science and culture, said the prize paid "tribute to the courage of journalists facing difficult and dangerous circumstances".

According to the New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ),&nbsp;at least 97 members of the press have been killed since the war broke out in October, 92 of whom were Palestinians.

The war started with Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel that resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

Israel estimates that 129 captives seized by militants during their attack remain in Gaza. The military says 34 of them are dead.

Israel's retaliatory offensive against Hamas has killed at least 34,596 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.

UNESCO on Thursday awarded its world press freedom prize to all Palestinian journalists covering the war in Gaza, where Israel has been battling Hamas for more than six months.

UNESCO on Thursday awarded its world press freedom prize to all Palestinian journalists covering the war in Gaza, where Israel has been battling Hamas for more than six months. "In these times of darkness and hopelessness, we wish to share a strong message of solidarity and recognition to those Palestinian journalists who are covering this crisis in such dramatic circumstances," said Mauricio Weibel, chair of the international jury of media professionals. "As humanity, we have a huge debt to their courage and commitment to freedom of expression," he added. Audrey Azoulay, director general at the UN organisation for education, science and culture, said the prize paid "tribute to the courage of journalists facing difficult and dangerous circumstances". According to the New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), at least 97 members of the press have been killed since the war broke out in October, 92 of whom were Palestinians. The war started with Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel that resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures. Israel estimates that 129 captives seized by militants during their attack remain in Gaza. The military says 34 of them are dead. Israel's retaliatory offensive against Hamas has killed at least 34,596 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.

UNESCO awards press prize to Palestinian journalists in Gaza

Even if the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza&nbsp;was to end today, it would take until 2040 to rebuild all the homes that have been destroyed so far, said the United Nations in a report, on Thursday (May 2).&nbsp;

<h2>Around 16 years to rebuild&nbsp;homes in Gaza: UN</h2>

With nearly seven months of Israel’s bombardment and ground offensives in Gaza, images and videos show most of the Palestinian enclave turned to rubble. The&nbsp;rebuilding of Gaza would also cost around $30 billion to $40 billion and require an effort on a scale the world has not seen since World War II, said a UN official.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Over 16,000 academics condemn Israel's scholasticide in Gaza

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The report by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) details the damage to Gaza’s infrastructure and the socio-economic impact since the beginning of the war triggered by Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel.&nbsp;

It also estimates the impact of the war at six months, with estimates of what would happen if the war were to continue. “Every additional day that this war continues is exacting huge and compounding costs to Gazans and all Palestinians,” said UNDP administrator Achim Steiner.

According to the report at least 370,000 housing units in Gaza have been damaged, including 79,000 destroyed completely. The rate of housing after the previous Israel-Hamas conflicts was 992 units per year.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bogota-severs-diplomatic-ties-with-israel-over-genocidal-gaza-campaign-israel-dubs-move-anti-semitic-717189">Bogota severs diplomatic ties with Israel over 'genocidal' Gaza campaign</a>

The report noted that even if Israel allows a five-fold increase of construction material to enter the blockaded Palestinian enclave, it would take until 2040 to rebuild destroyed houses, without fixing the damaged ones.

<h2>Cost of rebuilding and impact on economy</h2>

The UNDP estimates the cost of reconstruction of Gaza to surpass $30 billion and could reach up to $40 billion, said UN Assistant Secretary-General Abdallah al-Dardari, as per AFP.&nbsp;

“The scale of the destruction is huge and unprecedented...this is a mission that the global community has not dealt with since World War II,” he added.&nbsp;

According to the UNDP report, the Israeli offensive has virtually shut down the economy in Gaza which around 81 per cent in the last quarter of 2023. The “productive basis of the economy has been destroyed,” with sectors experiencing losses of more than 90 per cent, the report noted.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-unleashes-wave-of-sanctions-targets-russian-circumvention-via-china-717249">US unleashes wave of sanctions, targets Russian circumvention via Chinese companies</a>

If the war were to continue for nine months, according to the UNDP projections, the poverty is estimated to more than double with over&nbsp;1.86 million being pushed into poverty.

In 2024, the Palestinian economy – which includes both Gaza and the West Bank – contracted nearly 26 per cent and if the war continues until July, that number would reach 29 per cent with the estimated losses of $7.6 billion, according to the report.&nbsp;

“Unprecedented levels of human losses, capital destruction, and the steep rise in poverty in such a short period of time will precipitate a serious development crisis that jeopardizes the future of generations to come,” said Steiner.&nbsp;

Gaza, which is home to around 2.3 million people, has been blockaded by Israel and Egypt since Hamas’ 2007 takeover with strict control on what enters and exits the territory.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Even if the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza was to end today, it would take until 2040 to rebuild all the homes that have been destroyed so far, said the United Nations in a report, on Thursday (May 2).

Even if the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza was to end today, it would take until 2040 to rebuild all the homes that have been destroyed so far, said the United Nations in a report, on Thursday (May 2). Around 16 years to rebuild homes in Gaza: UN With nearly seven months of Israel’s bombardment and ground offensives in Gaza, images and videos show most of the Palestinian enclave turned to rubble. The rebuilding of Gaza would also cost around $30 billion to $40 billion and require an effort on a scale the world has not seen since World War II, said a UN official. WATCH | Over 16,000 academics condemn Israel's scholasticide in Gaza The report by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) details the damage to Gaza’s infrastructure and the socio-economic impact since the beginning of the war triggered by Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel. It also estimates the impact of the war at six months, with estimates of what would happen if the war were to continue. “Every additional day that this war continues is exacting huge and compounding costs to Gazans and all Palestinians,” said UNDP administrator Achim Steiner. According to the report at least 370,000 housing units in Gaza have been damaged, including 79,000 destroyed completely. The rate of housing after the previous Israel-Hamas conflicts was 992 units per year. Also Read | Bogota severs diplomatic ties with Israel over 'genocidal' Gaza campaign The report noted that even if Israel allows a five-fold increase of construction material to enter the blockaded Palestinian enclave, it would take until 2040 to rebuild destroyed houses, without fixing the damaged ones. Cost of rebuilding and impact on economy The UNDP estimates the cost of reconstruction of Gaza to surpass $30 billion and could reach up to $40 billion, said UN Assistant Secretary-General Abdallah al-Dardari, as per AFP. “The scale of the destruction is huge and unprecedented...this is a mission that the global community has not dealt with since World War II,” he added. According to the UNDP report, the Israeli offensive has virtually shut down the economy in Gaza which around 81 per cent in the last quarter of 2023. The “productive basis of the economy has been destroyed,” with sectors experiencing losses of more than 90 per cent, the report noted. Also Read | US unleashes wave of sanctions, targets Russian circumvention via Chinese companies If the war were to continue for nine months, according to the UNDP projections, the poverty is estimated to more than double with over 1.86 million being pushed into poverty. In 2024, the Palestinian economy – which includes both Gaza and the West Bank – contracted nearly 26 per cent and if the war continues until July, that number would reach 29 per cent with the estimated losses of $7.6 billion, according to the report. “Unprecedented levels of human losses, capital destruction, and the steep rise in poverty in such a short period of time will precipitate a serious development crisis that jeopardizes the future of generations to come,” said Steiner. Gaza, which is home to around 2.3 million people, has been blockaded by Israel and Egypt since Hamas’ 2007 takeover with strict control on what enters and exits the territory. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Rebuilding all homes destroyed in Gaza would take at least 16 years, says UN