Israel's longtime Ally the US is now repositioning its two Destroyer warships in West Asia in anticipation of the Iranian attack on Israel. According to a US official one Destroyer warship which has been repositioned was already there in the region while the other warship has been redirected there.

US moves Destroyer warships to defend Israel

Indian foreign ministry on Friday (Apr 12) issued an advisory to all Indians asking them to not travel to Iran or Israel till further notice amid the escalating tensions in the West Asian region.&nbsp;

The advisory noted that all those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian embassies there and register themselves.&nbsp;

"They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-likely-to-avoid-major-escalation-in-retaliatory-attack-israel-remains-on-high-alert-710328">Iran to avoid 'major escalation' in retaliatory attack, Israel on 'high alert'</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Fear looms over&nbsp;Israel-Iran war&nbsp;</h2>

This comes after the United States issued concerns saying that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent. US-based media outlets claimed that the strike could involve high-precision missile and drone attacks at military and government sites in Israel.&nbsp;

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant also said on Thursday that Israel would respond directly to any attack by Iran. "A direct Iranian attack will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran," Gallant told US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, according to remarks issued by his office.&nbsp;

Tehran has already issued a warning as supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said this week that Israel "must be punished and it shall be" for attacking the Iranian embassy compound in Syria.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lufthansa-extends-tehran-flight-suspension-amid-middle-east-security-concerns-710165">Lufthansa extends Tehran flight suspension amid middle east security concerns</a>&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Pentagon has given an "iron-clad" commitment to Israel's security against the Iranian threats.&nbsp;

The Pentagon said, "Echoing President Biden's unequivocal message to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Secretary Austin assured Minister Gallant that Israel could count on full U.S. support to defend Israel against Iranian attacks, which Tehran has publicly threatened."&nbsp;

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that they are keeping up its war in Gaza but is also preparing for scenarios in other areas.&nbsp;

"Whoever harms us, we will harm them. We are prepared to meet all of the security needs of the State of Israel, both defensively and offensively," he said in comments released by his office following a visit to the Tel Nof air force base in southern Israel.&nbsp;

Watch: Israeli jets hit Hezbollah military targets&nbsp;

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<h2>France also issued&nbsp;travel advisory&nbsp;</h2>

The French foreign ministry on Friday advised French citizens against travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories amid Iran's threats against its regional adversary.

In a statement on social media platform X, the French foreign ministry added that relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and that French civil servants are now banned from conducting any missions in Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories.&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;

Indian foreign ministry on Friday (Apr 12) issued an advisory to all Indians asking them to not travel to Iran or Israel till further notice amid the escalating tensions in the West Asian region.

Indian foreign ministry on Friday (Apr 12) issued an advisory to all Indians asking them to not travel to Iran or Israel till further notice amid the escalating tensions in the West Asian region. The advisory noted that all those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian embassies there and register themselves. "They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added. Also read: Iran to avoid 'major escalation' in retaliatory attack, Israel on 'high alert' Fear looms over Israel-Iran war This comes after the United States issued concerns saying that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent. US-based media outlets claimed that the strike could involve high-precision missile and drone attacks at military and government sites in Israel. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant also said on Thursday that Israel would respond directly to any attack by Iran. "A direct Iranian attack will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran," Gallant told US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, according to remarks issued by his office. Tehran has already issued a warning as supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said this week that Israel "must be punished and it shall be" for attacking the Iranian embassy compound in Syria. Also read: Lufthansa extends Tehran flight suspension amid middle east security concerns Meanwhile, the Pentagon has given an "iron-clad" commitment to Israel's security against the Iranian threats. The Pentagon said, "Echoing President Biden's unequivocal message to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Secretary Austin assured Minister Gallant that Israel could count on full U.S. support to defend Israel against Iranian attacks, which Tehran has publicly threatened." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that they are keeping up its war in Gaza but is also preparing for scenarios in other areas. "Whoever harms us, we will harm them. We are prepared to meet all of the security needs of the State of Israel, both defensively and offensively," he said in comments released by his office following a visit to the Tel Nof air force base in southern Israel. Watch: Israeli jets hit Hezbollah military targets × France also issued travel advisory The French foreign ministry on Friday advised French citizens against travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories amid Iran's threats against its regional adversary. In a statement on social media platform X, the French foreign ministry added that relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and that French civil servants are now banned from conducting any missions in Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories. 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)

Middle East crisis: Indians advised not to travel to Iran and Israel till further notice

Yemen's Houthis announced on Wednesday (Apr 10) that they had targeted four vessels, including what they claimed to be a US warship, using drones and naval missiles in the Gulf of Aden.&nbsp;The Houthi movement has, many times, expressed solidarity with the Palestinian cause in Gaza, and has consistently condemned Israeli actions against Palestinians, and has called for international support for Palestinian rights.

According to Yahya Sarea, the group's military spokesperson, the targeted vessels included the MSC Darwin ship, MV Yorktown, MSC GINA in addition to the US destroyer. He made this announcement in a televised address.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-force-can-separate-us-chinas-xi-says-during-rare-meeting-with-ex-taiwan-president-709933">‘No force can separate us’: China’s Xi says during rare meeting with ex-Taiwan president</a>

This comes a day after the US military reported on Tuesday (Apr 10) that it had intercepted an incoming anti-ship ballistic missile over the Gulf of Aden. It was believed to have been launched by the Houthis and potentially aimed at the MV Yorktown.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-votes-in-favour-of-migration-rules-overhaul-after-nearly-a-decade-of-deadlock-709919">European Union votes in favour of migration rules overhaul after nearly a decade of deadlock</a>

The US Central Command confirmed that there were no casualties or damage.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-lion-of-punjab-maharaja-ranjit-singh-exhibition-unveiled-in-uk-709944">Gravitas: The lion of Punjab: Maharaja Ranjit Singh exhibition unveiled in UK</a>

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The Houthis rebel group has posed a threat not only to Yemeni stability but also to regional security, particularly in the Red Sea area.&nbsp;

It has the capacity to disrupt maritime activities and international trade routes. After the Israel-Hamas war started, the Houthis have increasingly targeted maritime traffic passing through the Red Sea, a crucial waterway connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa.&nbsp;

The strategic significance of the Red Sea cannot be overstated, as it is a vital artery for global trade. Millions of barrels of oil and other goods pass through its waters each day.

(With inputs from agencies)

Yemen's Houthis announced on Wednesday (Apr 10) that they had targeted four vessels, including what they claimed to be a US warship, using drones and naval missiles in the Gulf of Aden.

Yemen's Houthis announced on Wednesday (Apr 10) that they had targeted four vessels, including what they claimed to be a US warship, using drones and naval missiles in the Gulf of Aden. The Houthi movement has, many times, expressed solidarity with the Palestinian cause in Gaza, and has consistently condemned Israeli actions against Palestinians, and has called for international support for Palestinian rights. According to Yahya Sarea, the group's military spokesperson, the targeted vessels included the MSC Darwin ship, MV Yorktown, MSC GINA in addition to the US destroyer. He made this announcement in a televised address. Also Read | ‘No force can separate us’: China’s Xi says during rare meeting with ex-Taiwan president This comes a day after the US military reported on Tuesday (Apr 10) that it had intercepted an incoming anti-ship ballistic missile over the Gulf of Aden. It was believed to have been launched by the Houthis and potentially aimed at the MV Yorktown. Also Read | European Union votes in favour of migration rules overhaul after nearly a decade of deadlock The US Central Command confirmed that there were no casualties or damage. Watch | Gravitas: The lion of Punjab: Maharaja Ranjit Singh exhibition unveiled in UK × The Houthis rebel group has posed a threat not only to Yemeni stability but also to regional security, particularly in the Red Sea area. It has the capacity to disrupt maritime activities and international trade routes. After the Israel-Hamas war started, the Houthis have increasingly targeted maritime traffic passing through the Red Sea, a crucial waterway connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa. The strategic significance of the Red Sea cannot be overstated, as it is a vital artery for global trade. Millions of barrels of oil and other goods pass through its waters each day. (With inputs from agencies)

Houthis target four vessels, including US warship, in Gulf of Aden

The United States believes that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent, and the only question is when exactly will it happen, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday (Apr 10). The report coincided with Tehran's warning as supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, also said on Wednesday that Israel "must be punished and it shall be" for attacking the Iranian embassy compound in Syria.&nbsp;

Suspected Israeli warplanes bombed Iran's consulate in the Syrian capital on April 1 in a strike that Iran said killed seven military advisers. It was seen as a major escalation.&nbsp;

"When they attack the consulate, it is as if they have attacked our soil. The evil regime made a mistake and must be punished and it shall be," Khamenei said in a speech marking the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lufthansa-extends-tehran-flight-suspension-amid-middle-east-security-concerns-710165">Lufthansa extends Tehran flight suspension amid middle east security concerns</a>&nbsp;

The Bloomberg report cited people familiar with US and Israeli intelligence assessments, saying that Iran or its proxies could launch strikes.&nbsp;

The strike&nbsp;could involve high-precision missile&nbsp;and drone attacks&nbsp;at&nbsp;military and government sites in Israel with the source telling the media outlet that the strikes were a matter of when, not if.&nbsp;

In another report published by the Axios news site, Gen. Michael Kurilla, who is head of the US Central Command, was expected to visit Israel on Thursday. He will consult with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and other officials to discuss the Iranian threat.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rwanda-genocide-envoy-mukangira-shares-personal-tale-of-loss-pays-homage-to-victims-710129">Rwanda genocide: Envoy Mukangira shares personal tale of loss, pays homage to victims in Delhi</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Israel and US fear Iran might attack Israel using missiles and&nbsp;drones&nbsp;

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Experts have raised concerns over the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas spreading and entering&nbsp;adjacent regions as the situation in West Asia continues to escalate. The situation&nbsp;has therefore called for and immediate ceasefire.

While speaking about the direction and location from where the attack might come, the source said that US and Western intelligence have indicated an attack may not necessarily come from Israel's north, where Tehran's ally Hezbollah in Lebanon is located.&nbsp;

US President also weighed in as he said on Wednesday, "We also want to address the Iranian threat to launch a significant - they're threatening to launch a significant attack in Israel. As I told Prime Minister Netanyahu, our commitment to Israel's security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad. Let me say it again, iron-clad - all we can to protect Israel's security."&nbsp;

As per the report, Israel appears to have knowledge of such potential attack, with&nbsp;Foreign Minister of Israel Katz saying on Wednesday that his country will respond if Iran attacks from its own soil.&nbsp;

"If Iran attacks from its own territory, Israel will respond and attack in Iran," Katz said in a post on the social media platform X.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United States believes that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent, and the only question is when exactly will it happen, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday (Apr 10).

The United States believes that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent, and the only question is when exactly will it happen, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday (Apr 10). The report coincided with Tehran's warning as supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, also said on Wednesday that Israel "must be punished and it shall be" for attacking the Iranian embassy compound in Syria. Suspected Israeli warplanes bombed Iran's consulate in the Syrian capital on April 1 in a strike that Iran said killed seven military advisers. It was seen as a major escalation. "When they attack the consulate, it is as if they have attacked our soil. The evil regime made a mistake and must be punished and it shall be," Khamenei said in a speech marking the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Also read: Lufthansa extends Tehran flight suspension amid middle east security concerns The Bloomberg report cited people familiar with US and Israeli intelligence assessments, saying that Iran or its proxies could launch strikes. The strike could involve high-precision missile and drone attacks at military and government sites in Israel with the source telling the media outlet that the strikes were a matter of when, not if. In another report published by the Axios news site, Gen. Michael Kurilla, who is head of the US Central Command, was expected to visit Israel on Thursday. He will consult with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and other officials to discuss the Iranian threat. Also read: Rwanda genocide: Envoy Mukangira shares personal tale of loss, pays homage to victims in Delhi Watch: Israel and US fear Iran might attack Israel using missiles and drones × Experts have raised concerns over the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas spreading and entering adjacent regions as the situation in West Asia continues to escalate. The situation has therefore called for and immediate ceasefire. While speaking about the direction and location from where the attack might come, the source said that US and Western intelligence have indicated an attack may not necessarily come from Israel's north, where Tehran's ally Hezbollah in Lebanon is located. US President also weighed in as he said on Wednesday, "We also want to address the Iranian threat to launch a significant - they're threatening to launch a significant attack in Israel. As I told Prime Minister Netanyahu, our commitment to Israel's security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad. Let me say it again, iron-clad - all we can to protect Israel's security." As per the report, Israel appears to have knowledge of such potential attack, with Foreign Minister of Israel Katz saying on Wednesday that his country will respond if Iran attacks from its own soil. "If Iran attacks from its own territory, Israel will respond and attack in Iran," Katz said in a post on the social media platform X. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

US warns of major Iranian strikes on Israel, raises concerns of war escalating

Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh confirmed that three of his sons and a number of grandchildren had been killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza on Wednesday (Apr 10), in an interview. He also accused Israel of acting in “the spirit of revenge and murder.” 
 
Haniyeh, 61, who is based in Qatar, has 13 sons and daughters according to Hamas sources. He said in the interview that&nbsp;“the blood of my sons is not dearer than the blood of our people”.

Haniyeh, who was appointed to the top job of Hamas in 2017, travels between Turkey and Qatar’s capital Doha&nbsp;to avoid&nbsp;Israeli-imposed travel restrictions in Gaza and has been acting as a negotiator in the ceasefire negotiations as well as with Hamas’ main ally Iran.

<h2>Israeli strike in Gaza</h2>

The three sons – Hazem, Amir and Mohammad – of the Hamas leader were killed after the car they were travelling in was bombed in Gaza’s Al-Shati camp, the Palestinian militant group said, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu making a 'mistake': Joe Biden

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A report by Hamas media also said that two of Haniyeh’s grandchildren were also killed in the attack and a third was wounded.&nbsp;

In an interview with Al Jazeera Arabic, the Hamas leader confirmed the death of his sons saying that they were “martyred on the road to liberating Jerusalem and the Al-Aqsa Mosque.”

“Through the blood of the martyrs and the pain of the injured, we create hope, we create the future, we create independence and freedom for our people and our nation,” said Haniyeh.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-threatens-to-strike-iran-directly-709849">Israel threatens to strike Iran directly if it launches attacks from its own territory</a>

He also said around 60 members of his family, including nieces and nephews, have been killed since the beginning of the war.&nbsp;

“The enemy believes that by targeting the families of the leaders, it will push them to give up the demands of our people,” said Haniyeh, adding that “anyone who believes that targeting my sons will push Hamas to change its position is delusional.”

The Hamas leader currently lives in Qatar in exile and is originally from Shati. Notably, Haniyeh has been the tough-talking face of the Palestinian militant group’s international diplomacy amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. &nbsp;

The Hamas leader’s eldest son, Abdel-Salam Haniyeh, took to Facebook and confirmed the deaths of his three brothers. “Thanks to God who honoured us by the martyrdom of my brothers, Hazem, Amir and Mohammad and their children.”&nbsp;

<h2>Israeli military confirms deaths</h2>

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson for the Arab media, Avichay Adraee, in a post on X, confirmed the killing of three sons of the Hamas leader.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-rejects-usas-peace-proposal-for-gaza-will-now-release-its-own-plan-709889">Hamas rejects USA’s peace proposal for Gaza, will now release its own plan</a>

“The IDF and the General Security Service eliminated three members of the military wing of Hamas in the central Gaza Strip. The three members are the sons of Ismail Haniyeh, head of the Hamas political bureau,” said Adraee.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh confirmed that three of his sons and a number of grandchildren had been killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza on Wednesday (Apr 10), in an interview.

Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh confirmed that three of his sons and a number of grandchildren had been killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza on Wednesday (Apr 10), in an interview. He also accused Israel of acting in “the spirit of revenge and murder.” Haniyeh, 61, who is based in Qatar, has 13 sons and daughters according to Hamas sources. He said in the interview that “the blood of my sons is not dearer than the blood of our people”. Haniyeh, who was appointed to the top job of Hamas in 2017, travels between Turkey and Qatar’s capital Doha to avoid Israeli-imposed travel restrictions in Gaza and has been acting as a negotiator in the ceasefire negotiations as well as with Hamas’ main ally Iran. Israeli strike in Gaza The three sons – Hazem, Amir and Mohammad – of the Hamas leader were killed after the car they were travelling in was bombed in Gaza’s Al-Shati camp, the Palestinian militant group said, as per Reuters. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu making a 'mistake': Joe Biden A report by Hamas media also said that two of Haniyeh’s grandchildren were also killed in the attack and a third was wounded. In an interview with Al Jazeera Arabic, the Hamas leader confirmed the death of his sons saying that they were “martyred on the road to liberating Jerusalem and the Al-Aqsa Mosque.” “Through the blood of the martyrs and the pain of the injured, we create hope, we create the future, we create independence and freedom for our people and our nation,” said Haniyeh. Also Read | Israel threatens to strike Iran directly if it launches attacks from its own territory He also said around 60 members of his family, including nieces and nephews, have been killed since the beginning of the war. “The enemy believes that by targeting the families of the leaders, it will push them to give up the demands of our people,” said Haniyeh, adding that “anyone who believes that targeting my sons will push Hamas to change its position is delusional.” The Hamas leader currently lives in Qatar in exile and is originally from Shati. Notably, Haniyeh has been the tough-talking face of the Palestinian militant group’s international diplomacy amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The Hamas leader’s eldest son, Abdel-Salam Haniyeh, took to Facebook and confirmed the deaths of his three brothers. “Thanks to God who honoured us by the martyrdom of my brothers, Hazem, Amir and Mohammad and their children.” Israeli military confirms deaths The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson for the Arab media, Avichay Adraee, in a post on X, confirmed the killing of three sons of the Hamas leader. Also Read | Hamas rejects USA’s peace proposal for Gaza, will now release its own plan “The IDF and the General Security Service eliminated three members of the military wing of Hamas in the central Gaza Strip. The three members are the sons of Ismail Haniyeh, head of the Hamas political bureau,” said Adraee. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh’s three sons, grandchildren killed in Israeli strike on Gaza

Israel’s Foreign Minister Katz on Wednesday (April 10) threatened that if Iran launches attacks from its own soil then Israel will strike back inside Iran. This statement came amid increasingly aggressive rhetoric between the two countries.

Earlier, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated&nbsp;that Israel should be punished and it shall be for allegedly attacking an Iranian consular building in Syria’s Damascus, which killed two generals among several Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps officers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-israeli-militarys-use-of-ai-lavender-to-generate-kill-lists-707558" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-israeli-militarys-use-of-ai-lavender-to-generate-kill-lists-707558&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4q_Dvi7WFAxUci68BHb-DDrUQFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw00D1PcV0DbrdfQNrocyky1&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-israeli-militarys-use-of-ai-lavender-to-generate-kill-lists-707558" target="_blank">Explained:&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;military's use of AI tool 'Lavender' to generate kill lists</a>

Katz posted in Hebrew on his social media account on X, “If Iran attacks from its territory; Israel will react and attack in Iran.”

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اگر ایران از خاک خود حمله کند، اسرائیل واکنش نشان داده و در ایران حمله خواهد کرد <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@khamenei_ir</a>
— ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel_katz/status/1777937629096337817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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He then posted the same warning in a Persian-language post and tagged Khamenei’s official X account.

Iran, claiming its aim to eradicate the Jewish state, has developed rockets capable of reaching any part of Israel and has proudly asserted its capacity to launch attacks.

In a significant escalation of Israel’s conflict with regional foes, suspected Israeli warplanes carried out an airstrike on a building in the Syrian capital on April 1. Iran stated that the strike killed seven IRGC military advisers at a consulate site, including Iran’s top commander in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi.

Khamenei condemned the strike, which demolished a five-story building near the Iranian embassy in Syria, stating that it violated international agreements safeguarding diplomatic premises.

“The consulate and embassy offices in any country belong to that country. Attacking a consulate is tantamount to an attack on our territory,” he declared in a speech marking the conclusion of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. “The malicious regime made an error and must face consequences, which it shall,” he added.

However, State TV broadcast Khamenei’s remarks live, but he did not elaborate on how or when Iran would retaliate.

Earlier on Tuesday (April 9), unnamed US intelligence sources informed, that Iran is unlikely to attack Israel directly out of fear of American and Israeli retaliation and will urge its various proxies in the region to launch attacks on its behalf in the coming days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4q_Dvi7WFAxUci68BHb-DDrUQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Xhjvpo6WcPwOPojKJAhV-&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053" target="_blank">Israel&nbsp;kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon</a>

Released on Monday night, the report raised doubts regarding the prior assessments made by both Washington and Jerusalem, suggesting that an attack by Iran was inevitable.

Notably, Israel has remained on high alert recently following threats of retaliation from Iranian officials&nbsp;after the Damascus airstrike that resulted in the death of IRGC's top commander in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi, along with six other members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and at least one member of the Iranian proxy group Hezbollah.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel’s Foreign Minister Katz on Wednesday (April 10) threatened that if Iran launches attacks from its own soil then Israel will strike back inside Iran. This statement came amid increasingly aggressive rhetoric between the two countries.

Israel’s Foreign Minister Katz on Wednesday (April 10) threatened that if Iran launches attacks from its own soil then Israel will strike back inside Iran. This statement came amid increasingly aggressive rhetoric between the two countries. Earlier, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated that Israel should be punished and it shall be for allegedly attacking an Iranian consular building in Syria’s Damascus, which killed two generals among several Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps officers. Also read: Explained: Israeli military's use of AI tool 'Lavender' to generate kill lists Katz posted in Hebrew on his social media account on X, “If Iran attacks from its territory; Israel will react and attack in Iran.” اگر ایران از خاک خود حمله کند، اسرائیل واکنش نشان داده و در ایران حمله خواهد کرد @khamenei_ir — ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) April 10, 2024 × He then posted the same warning in a Persian-language post and tagged Khamenei’s official X account. Iran, claiming its aim to eradicate the Jewish state, has developed rockets capable of reaching any part of Israel and has proudly asserted its capacity to launch attacks. In a significant escalation of Israel’s conflict with regional foes, suspected Israeli warplanes carried out an airstrike on a building in the Syrian capital on April 1. Iran stated that the strike killed seven IRGC military advisers at a consulate site, including Iran’s top commander in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi. Khamenei condemned the strike, which demolished a five-story building near the Iranian embassy in Syria, stating that it violated international agreements safeguarding diplomatic premises. “The consulate and embassy offices in any country belong to that country. Attacking a consulate is tantamount to an attack on our territory,” he declared in a speech marking the conclusion of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. “The malicious regime made an error and must face consequences, which it shall,” he added. However, State TV broadcast Khamenei’s remarks live, but he did not elaborate on how or when Iran would retaliate. Earlier on Tuesday (April 9), unnamed US intelligence sources informed, that Iran is unlikely to attack Israel directly out of fear of American and Israeli retaliation and will urge its various proxies in the region to launch attacks on its behalf in the coming days. Also read: Israel kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon Released on Monday night, the report raised doubts regarding the prior assessments made by both Washington and Jerusalem, suggesting that an attack by Iran was inevitable. Notably, Israel has remained on high alert recently following threats of retaliation from Iranian officials after the Damascus airstrike that resulted in the death of IRGC's top commander in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi, along with six other members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and at least one member of the Iranian proxy group Hezbollah. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel threatens to strike Iran directly if it launches attacks from its own territory

Too frightened to travel on dangerous roads that lead to their graveyards in Gaza, Palestinian Christians are lowering their loved ones into the ground in Muslim cemeteries amid the chaos of war between Israel and Hamas.

"I've been working at this cemetery for almost 10 years and this is the first time in my life," said Ihsan al-Natour, a worker at the Tal al-Sultan cemetery, where a man picked up a shrouded body and placed it inside a grave as a small child watched.

"Never have I seen a Christian being buried in a Muslim grave, but because of this war, we had no choice but to bury him here."

Since the war broke out six months ago, Israel bombardments have killed more than 33,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, according to figures from the Gaza health ministry. Some people have lost entire families.

Much of the coastal enclave has been turned into a wasteland, with buildings reduced to rubble and dust. Badly damaged hospitals cannot cope with the casualties, while hunger and possible famine add to the misery.

Travel along roads that could get bombed or shelled only increases the anguish for people trying to bury their dead. Israel has yet to allow residents of northern Gaza, where the Christian cemetery is located, to return home.

Al-Natour said Tal al-Sultan cemetery received the body of a Christian man named Hani Suheil Abu Dawood because it was too dangerous for his family to travel amid the siege. They were unable to say goodbye to him properly.

"So we've buried him here at the Tal al-Sultan cemetery. We don't discriminate between Muslims or Christians here. He's buried amongst Muslims and there are no signs that indicate he is Christian," he said.

Cooperation between Christians and Muslims is not unusual in Gaza.

"I have to take care of him because he is Christian. We have to protect God's creations on this earth," said al-Natour.

"He is a human being, we respect human beings and appreciate humanity and we love every person on earth. It is not in our nature as Muslims to hate humanity."

The war erupted on Oct. 7 when Hamas gunmen burst into Israel from Gaza and killed 1,200 people, according to official Israeli figures, triggering the Israeli assault.

The cemetery is likely to receive many more people as the Palestinian death toll rises every day.

Too frightened to travel on dangerous roads that lead to their graveyards in Gaza, Palestinian Christians are lowering their loved ones into the ground in Muslim cemeteries amid the chaos of war between Israel and Hamas.

Too frightened to travel on dangerous roads that lead to their graveyards in Gaza, Palestinian Christians are lowering their loved ones into the ground in Muslim cemeteries amid the chaos of war between Israel and Hamas. "I've been working at this cemetery for almost 10 years and this is the first time in my life," said Ihsan al-Natour, a worker at the Tal al-Sultan cemetery, where a man picked up a shrouded body and placed it inside a grave as a small child watched. "Never have I seen a Christian being buried in a Muslim grave, but because of this war, we had no choice but to bury him here." Since the war broke out six months ago, Israel bombardments have killed more than 33,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, according to figures from the Gaza health ministry. Some people have lost entire families. Much of the coastal enclave has been turned into a wasteland, with buildings reduced to rubble and dust. Badly damaged hospitals cannot cope with the casualties, while hunger and possible famine add to the misery. Travel along roads that could get bombed or shelled only increases the anguish for people trying to bury their dead. Israel has yet to allow residents of northern Gaza, where the Christian cemetery is located, to return home. Al-Natour said Tal al-Sultan cemetery received the body of a Christian man named Hani Suheil Abu Dawood because it was too dangerous for his family to travel amid the siege. They were unable to say goodbye to him properly. "So we've buried him here at the Tal al-Sultan cemetery. We don't discriminate between Muslims or Christians here. He's buried amongst Muslims and there are no signs that indicate he is Christian," he said. Cooperation between Christians and Muslims is not unusual in Gaza. "I have to take care of him because he is Christian. We have to protect God's creations on this earth," said al-Natour. "He is a human being, we respect human beings and appreciate humanity and we love every person on earth. It is not in our nature as Muslims to hate humanity." The war erupted on Oct. 7 when Hamas gunmen burst into Israel from Gaza and killed 1,200 people, according to official Israeli figures, triggering the Israeli assault. The cemetery is likely to receive many more people as the Palestinian death toll rises every day.

Chaos of Gaza war forces Christians to bury dead in Muslim cemeteries

West Asia is desperate to finalise a deal to de-escalate tensions in the region amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation and fears looming over the expansion of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, with Egyptian sources revealing details about the US-drafted proposal for a temporary truce. While speaking to the Al-Araby Al-Jadeed news outlet, sources also mentioned a hostage release deal which is apparently currently being examined by Israel and Hamas. However, even as a positive outcome is awaited, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that a date has been set for an Israeli invasion of Rafah.&nbsp;

Israeli and Hamas teams reached Egypt on Sunday after CIA Director William Burns arrived on Saturday. Leaders from across the world, especially the United States, have been vying to reach a deal amid rising Palestinian civilian deaths. Truce calls intensified after the recent attack on aid workers, which killed seven.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053">Israel kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon</a>&nbsp;

"There is no change in the position of the occupation (Israel) and therefore, there is nothing new in the Cairo talks. There is no progress yet," the Hamas official, who asked not to be identified, told Reuters.&nbsp;

So far in the six-month-long war, about 33,207 Palestinians have been killed, Gaza's health ministry said in an update on Monday. Most of the enclave's 2.3 million people are homeless and many at risk of famine.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-israels-withdrawal-from-south-gaza-a-rest-and-refit-plan-says-biden-govt-frustrated-708781">Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza not indicative of new operations, says US</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | Gaza War: Is Israel about to open a new front in the war with Iran?&nbsp;

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<h2>Invasion of Rafah&nbsp;</h2>

Netanyahu said on Monday that Israel has set a date for an Israeli invasion of Rafah, which is Gaza's last refuge for displaced Palestinians. He, however, didn't disclose that date.&nbsp;

"Today I received a detailed report on the talks in Cairo, we are constantly working to achieve our goals, first and foremost the release of all our hostages and achieving a complete victory over Hamas," Netanyahu said.&nbsp;

"This victory requires entry into Rafah and the elimination of the terrorist battalions there. It will happen - there is a date," he added.&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;

West Asia is desperate to finalise a deal to de-escalate tensions in the region amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation and fears looming over the expansion of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, with Egyptian sources revealing details about the US-drafted proposal for a temporary truce.

West Asia is desperate to finalise a deal to de-escalate tensions in the region amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation and fears looming over the expansion of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, with Egyptian sources revealing details about the US-drafted proposal for a temporary truce. While speaking to the Al-Araby Al-Jadeed news outlet, sources also mentioned a hostage release deal which is apparently currently being examined by Israel and Hamas. However, even as a positive outcome is awaited, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that a date has been set for an Israeli invasion of Rafah. Israeli and Hamas teams reached Egypt on Sunday after CIA Director William Burns arrived on Saturday. Leaders from across the world, especially the United States, have been vying to reach a deal amid rising Palestinian civilian deaths. Truce calls intensified after the recent attack on aid workers, which killed seven. Also read: Israel kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon "There is no change in the position of the occupation (Israel) and therefore, there is nothing new in the Cairo talks. There is no progress yet," the Hamas official, who asked not to be identified, told Reuters. So far in the six-month-long war, about 33,207 Palestinians have been killed, Gaza's health ministry said in an update on Monday. Most of the enclave's 2.3 million people are homeless and many at risk of famine. Also read: Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza not indicative of new operations, says US Watch: Gravitas | Gaza War: Is Israel about to open a new front in the war with Iran? × Invasion of Rafah Netanyahu said on Monday that Israel has set a date for an Israeli invasion of Rafah, which is Gaza's last refuge for displaced Palestinians. He, however, didn't disclose that date. "Today I received a detailed report on the talks in Cairo, we are constantly working to achieve our goals, first and foremost the release of all our hostages and achieving a complete victory over Hamas," Netanyahu said. "This victory requires entry into Rafah and the elimination of the terrorist battalions there. It will happen - there is a date," he added. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Gaza truce talks remain stagnant, Netanyahu sets date for Rafah invasion

A drone footage of Gaza shows the scale of destruction in the Palestinian enclave since the beginning of the war between Israel and the militant group Hamas. The video shows how the once lively and vibrant Gaza has turned into a wasteland of rubble and twisted steel after more than six months of Israeli bombardment.&nbsp;

<h2>Watch: Before and after drone footage</h2>

Before the war, Palestinians in Gaza would be able to stand on the balconies of their buildings and view the Mediterranean Sea.&nbsp;

However, the footage by news agency Reuters and other sources, shows how those buildings and structures have now turned into rubble. It also shows the days when, one of the most densely populated areas on Earth, would look like any other city.&nbsp;

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Drone footage of Gaza over the six months of warfare between Israel and Hamas shows how the once-vibrant Palestinian enclave has been transformed into a vast wasteland <a href="https://t.co/XREmnoaWrT">https://t.co/XREmnoaWrT</a> <a href="https://t.co/73VwVK9THR">pic.twitter.com/73VwVK9THR</a>
— Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1777450093324427744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The war began on October 7 after the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, launched attacks in southern Israel, killed 1,200 people and dragged more than 200 hostages back to Gaza, according to Israel officials.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-buy-40000-tents-for-evacuating-palestinians-from-rafah-before-launching-ground-offensive-report-709472">Israel to buy 40,000 tents for evacuating Palestinians from Rafah before launching ground offensive: Report</a>

Israel has since responded with near-constant bombardment and a ground operation in Gaza, killing at least 33,360 people and leaving 75,993 others injured, according to the recent update by the Hamas-run health ministry, on Tuesday (Apr 9).&nbsp;

<h2>No end in sight</h2>

The ongoing war crossed the six-month mark on April 7, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu repeating his stance saying that Israel’s military offensive will not stop until Hamas is eliminated.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, over the past few months, ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas amid the ongoing war have largely stalled. The recent round of negotiations reportedly began over the weekend in the Egyptian capital city of Cairo.&nbsp;

At the end of the weekend, the Palestinian militant group was presented with a new proposal for ceasefire talks but it appears that it would not lead to a deal.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-amazon-tribe-faces-full-blown-epidemic-as-80-members-show-flu-like-symptoms-709509">Brazil: Amazon tribe faces full-blown epidemic as 80% members show flu-like symptoms</a>

Hamas has confirmed that it is reviewing the latest proposal but said Israel “has not responded to any of the demands of our people and our resistance”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israel has rejected Palestinian demands to allow hundreds of thousands of Gazans back to the enclave’s north. The Hamas proposal also includes the complete withdrawal of Israeli military ground forces from the strip.

(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.

A drone footage of Gaza shows the scale of destruction in the Palestinian enclave since the beginning of the war between Israel and the militant group Hamas. The video shows how the once lively and vibrant Gaza has turned into a wasteland of rubble and twisted steel after more than six months of Israeli bombardment.

A drone footage of Gaza shows the scale of destruction in the Palestinian enclave since the beginning of the war between Israel and the militant group Hamas. The video shows how the once lively and vibrant Gaza has turned into a wasteland of rubble and twisted steel after more than six months of Israeli bombardment. Watch: Before and after drone footage Before the war, Palestinians in Gaza would be able to stand on the balconies of their buildings and view the Mediterranean Sea. However, the footage by news agency Reuters and other sources, shows how those buildings and structures have now turned into rubble. It also shows the days when, one of the most densely populated areas on Earth, would look like any other city. Drone footage of Gaza over the six months of warfare between Israel and Hamas shows how the once-vibrant Palestinian enclave has been transformed into a vast wasteland https://t.co/XREmnoaWrT pic.twitter.com/73VwVK9THR — Reuters (@Reuters) April 8, 2024 × The war began on October 7 after the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, launched attacks in southern Israel, killed 1,200 people and dragged more than 200 hostages back to Gaza, according to Israel officials. Also Read | Israel to buy 40,000 tents for evacuating Palestinians from Rafah before launching ground offensive: Report Israel has since responded with near-constant bombardment and a ground operation in Gaza, killing at least 33,360 people and leaving 75,993 others injured, according to the recent update by the Hamas-run health ministry, on Tuesday (Apr 9). No end in sight The ongoing war crossed the six-month mark on April 7, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu repeating his stance saying that Israel’s military offensive will not stop until Hamas is eliminated. Meanwhile, over the past few months, ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas amid the ongoing war have largely stalled. The recent round of negotiations reportedly began over the weekend in the Egyptian capital city of Cairo. At the end of the weekend, the Palestinian militant group was presented with a new proposal for ceasefire talks but it appears that it would not lead to a deal. Also Read | Brazil: Amazon tribe faces full-blown epidemic as 80% members show flu-like symptoms Hamas has confirmed that it is reviewing the latest proposal but said Israel “has not responded to any of the demands of our people and our resistance”. Meanwhile, Israel has rejected Palestinian demands to allow hundreds of thousands of Gazans back to the enclave’s north. The Hamas proposal also includes the complete withdrawal of Israeli military ground forces from the strip. (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.

Video: Before and after drone footage shows destruction of Gaza more than six months into Israel-Hamas war

In response to last week's strike in Damascus amidst threats of retaliation from Iranian officials, Israel has allegedly indicated to strike targets within Iran.

Israel is conducting air force exercises, including preparations to target Iranian nuclear facilities and key infrastructure, stated an anonymous Western security official cited by the London-based Elaph News.

Unnamed US intelligence sources informed, that Iran is unlikely to attack Israel directly out of fear of American and Israeli retaliation and will urge its various proxies in the region to launch attacks on its behalf in the coming days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4q_Dvi7WFAxUci68BHb-DDrUQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Xhjvpo6WcPwOPojKJAhV-&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053" target="_blank">Israel&nbsp;kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon</a>

Released on Monday night, the report raised doubts regarding the prior assessments made by both Washington and Jerusalem, suggesting that an attack by Iran was inevitable.

Notably, Israel has remained on high alert recently following threats of retaliation from Iranian officials, followed by Damascus airstrike that resulted in the death of their top commander in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi, along with six other members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and at least one member of the Iranian proxy group Hezbollah.

Israel has abstained from providing any official statements on the issue. Meanwhile, both Damascus and Tehran have accused Israel of being responsible for the attack that occurred last Monday. The New York Times cited four anonymous Israeli officials as confirming that the country was behind the strike.

During a security cabinet meeting last week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made reference to the strike while asserting Israel's commitment to retaliate against any potential Iranian attack.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-israeli-militarys-use-of-ai-lavender-to-generate-kill-lists-707558" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-israeli-militarys-use-of-ai-lavender-to-generate-kill-lists-707558&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4q_Dvi7WFAxUci68BHb-DDrUQFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw00D1PcV0DbrdfQNrocyky1&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-israeli-militarys-use-of-ai-lavender-to-generate-kill-lists-707558" target="_blank">Explained:&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;military's use of AI tool 'Lavender' to generate kill lists</a>

He stated, "Iran has been engaging in actions against us for years, both directly and through allies. As a result, Israel takes defensive and offensive measures against Iran and its proxies."

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah said in a televised remarks last Friday that&nbsp;an Iranian response was coming. 
 
“Be certain, be sure, that the Iranian response to the targeting of the consulate in Damascus is definitely coming against Israel,” he said.

After a review on Sunday (April 7) with top army brass, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said that Israel was ready to respond to any attack by the Islamic Republic, and has completed preparations for a response against any scenario that would develop against Iran.”

Watch:&nbsp;Netanyahu vows to carry out Rafah invasion, says 'there is a date'

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Additionally, Israel is anticipating potential ballistic missile strikes directly from Iran, a threat it has not yet encountered.

Iran, on the other hand, has allegedly placed its military forces on high alert in anticipation of any forthcoming strikes.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

In response to last week's strike in Damascus amidst threats of retaliation from Iranian officials, Israel has allegedly indicated to strike targets within Iran.

In response to last week's strike in Damascus amidst threats of retaliation from Iranian officials, Israel has allegedly indicated to strike targets within Iran. Israel is conducting air force exercises, including preparations to target Iranian nuclear facilities and key infrastructure, stated an anonymous Western security official cited by the London-based Elaph News. Unnamed US intelligence sources informed, that Iran is unlikely to attack Israel directly out of fear of American and Israeli retaliation and will urge its various proxies in the region to launch attacks on its behalf in the coming days. Also read: Israel kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon Released on Monday night, the report raised doubts regarding the prior assessments made by both Washington and Jerusalem, suggesting that an attack by Iran was inevitable. Notably, Israel has remained on high alert recently following threats of retaliation from Iranian officials, followed by Damascus airstrike that resulted in the death of their top commander in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi, along with six other members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and at least one member of the Iranian proxy group Hezbollah. Israel has abstained from providing any official statements on the issue. Meanwhile, both Damascus and Tehran have accused Israel of being responsible for the attack that occurred last Monday. The New York Times cited four anonymous Israeli officials as confirming that the country was behind the strike. During a security cabinet meeting last week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made reference to the strike while asserting Israel's commitment to retaliate against any potential Iranian attack. Also read: Explained: Israeli military's use of AI tool 'Lavender' to generate kill lists He stated, "Iran has been engaging in actions against us for years, both directly and through allies. As a result, Israel takes defensive and offensive measures against Iran and its proxies." Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah said in a televised remarks last Friday that an Iranian response was coming. “Be certain, be sure, that the Iranian response to the targeting of the consulate in Damascus is definitely coming against Israel,” he said. After a review on Sunday (April 7) with top army brass, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said that Israel was ready to respond to any attack by the Islamic Republic, and has completed preparations for a response against any scenario that would develop against Iran.” Watch: Netanyahu vows to carry out Rafah invasion, says 'there is a date' × Additionally, Israel is anticipating potential ballistic missile strikes directly from Iran, a threat it has not yet encountered. Iran, on the other hand, has allegedly placed its military forces on high alert in anticipation of any forthcoming strikes. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel ready to target Iranian nuclear sites in response to Tehran’s potential attack

Britain's Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said that the UK would not sell arms to Israel if it breaches international law in Gaza. The statement comes at a time when UK minister is being pressed to disclose the legal counsel they have been given over the continuation of military sales to Israel.&nbsp;

When asked, "If the Government would stop arms sales if it received legal advice that Israel was in breach of international humanitarian law," on&nbsp;the BBC’s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg, Dowden replied, “If it is the case that we can’t lawfully, in accordance with the Act do so, of course we won’t supply those arms, but that is precisely the position, for example, even in respect of the United States or any other country around the world."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-between-killed-killers-and-captives-gaza-completes-a-semester-of-war-708599">Explained: Between killed, killers and captives, Gaza completes a semester of war</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

“And it contrasts so strongly, our adherence to very high values, with the appalling atrocities that have been committed by terrorist organisations against Israel,” he added.

There has been a split in the UK cabinet on the matter of arms sales to Israel. British Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron wrote in Sunday Times, “Of course our backing is not unconditional: we expect such a proud and successful democracy to abide by international humanitarian law, even when challenged in this way. As an occupying power, Israel has a responsibility to the people of Gaza.”

This comes after the killings of three British aid workers John Chapman, 57, James “Jim” Henderson, 33, and James Kirby, 47 on April 1 by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF).&nbsp;

Sunday (April 7) marks six months since the October 7 attack in which Hamas militants attacked southern Israel which left about 1,200 dead. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Britain's Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said that the UK would not sell arms to Israel if it breaches international law in Gaza. The statement comes at a time when UK minister is being pressed to disclose the legal counsel they have been given over the continuation of military sales to Israel.

Britain's Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said that the UK would not sell arms to Israel if it breaches international law in Gaza. The statement comes at a time when UK minister is being pressed to disclose the legal counsel they have been given over the continuation of military sales to Israel. When asked, "If the Government would stop arms sales if it received legal advice that Israel was in breach of international humanitarian law," on the BBC’s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg, Dowden replied, “If it is the case that we can’t lawfully, in accordance with the Act do so, of course we won’t supply those arms, but that is precisely the position, for example, even in respect of the United States or any other country around the world." Also read | Explained: Between killed, killers and captives, Gaza completes a semester of war “And it contrasts so strongly, our adherence to very high values, with the appalling atrocities that have been committed by terrorist organisations against Israel,” he added. There has been a split in the UK cabinet on the matter of arms sales to Israel. British Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron wrote in Sunday Times, “Of course our backing is not unconditional: we expect such a proud and successful democracy to abide by international humanitarian law, even when challenged in this way. As an occupying power, Israel has a responsibility to the people of Gaza.” This comes after the killings of three British aid workers John Chapman, 57, James “Jim” Henderson, 33, and James Kirby, 47 on April 1 by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF). Sunday (April 7) marks six months since the October 7 attack in which Hamas militants attacked southern Israel which left about 1,200 dead. (With inputs from agencies)

UK will halt arms sales to Israel if it breaches international law in Gaza: UK Deputy Prime Minister

The Israeli military has withdrawn all ground troops, except for one brigade, from the southern part of Gaza, said a military spokesperson, on Sunday (Apr 7), amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group, Hamas. Meanwhile, an adviser to the Iranian supreme leader warned that Israeli embassies are “no longer safe”.&nbsp;

<h2>Troops withdrawn from southern Gaza</h2>

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have&nbsp;withdrawn all troops from the southern Gaza Strip,&nbsp; said the IDF spokesperson, after four months of fighting in the Khan Younis area. However, one brigade, Nahal, currently remains in the Gaza Strip, reported the Times of Israel.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Six months on, Gaza Health Ministry says 33,137 civilians killed

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An Israeli brigade is typically made up of a few thousand troops. According to the Israeli media, the brigade in question is tasked with securing the so-called Netzarim Corridor, which crosses Gaza from the Be’eri area in southern Israel to the Palestinian enclave’s coast.&nbsp;

The brigade is also responsible for securing the corridor to prevent displaced Gazans from returning to the northern part of the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

A report by Anadolu news agency citing Palestinian sources said Israeli forces retreated from all western areas of Khan Younis city and remained stationed in the east.&nbsp;

The Israeli army completed its operation in Khan Younis and soldiers have completed their exit from there, reported Israel’s Channel 12.&nbsp;

However, it was not immediately clear if the withdrawal would delay a long-threatened incursion into the southern Gaza city of Rafah where more than a million Palestinians have sought refuge amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-troops-recover-body-of-hostage-from-gazas-khan-younis-military-says-708410">&nbsp;Israeli troops recover body of hostage from Gaza’s Khan Younis, military says</a>

The IDF also announced the death of four soldiers in the southern Gaza Strip, on Sunday. At least 604 soldiers have been killed since the beginning of the war on October 7, and 3,193 others have been injured, according to Israeli officials.&nbsp;

<h2>New round of ceasefire talks to be held in Cairo</h2>

On Saturday (Apr 6), the Palestinian militant group said that it would send a delegation to Cairo, Egypt, for a new round of ceasefire talks which are expected to begin on Sunday.&nbsp;

Hamas has reiterated its demands which it issued in the March 14 proposal before the UN Security Council (UNSC) which includes calling for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

On March 25, a resolution calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in the Palestinian enclave and an unconditional release of all hostages held in Gaza had passed in the UNSC.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, an Israeli delegation is also expected to head to the Egyptian capital city, on Sunday for talks aimed at renewing the stalled talks with Hamas over the release of hostages being held in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

<h2>No Gaza truce without release of hostages: Netanyahu</h2>

Israeli Prime Benjamin Netanyahu, on Sunday, said that Israel would not agree to a ceasefire until Hamas releases all the hostages being held in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

His comments came at the beginning of a weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem where he also said that despite growing international pressure, Israel would not give in to “extreme” demands from Hamas.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-on-high-alert-amid-iran-threat-following-israeli-strike-in-syria-708220">US on high alert over Iran attack threat in retaliation to Israeli strike on consulate in Syria</a>

“Israel is one step away from victory,” said Netanyahu, adding that, “Hamas is the one preventing a (hostage) deal.”&nbsp;

<h2>Israeli embassies are ‘no longer safe’</h2>

Israeli embassies are “no longer safe,” warned Yahya Rahim Safavi, senior adviser to Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as quoted by news agency ISNA.&nbsp;

This comes after Tehran blamed Israel for the attack on Iran’s consulate in Syria which killed at least 13 people in the Syrian capital city of Damascus, including seven members Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).&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.

The Israeli military has withdrawn all ground troops, except for one brigade, from the southern part of Gaza, said a military spokesperson, on Sunday (Apr 7), amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group, Hamas.

The Israeli military has withdrawn all ground troops, except for one brigade, from the southern part of Gaza, said a military spokesperson, on Sunday (Apr 7), amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group, Hamas. Meanwhile, an adviser to the Iranian supreme leader warned that Israeli embassies are “no longer safe”. Troops withdrawn from southern Gaza The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have withdrawn all troops from the southern Gaza Strip, said the IDF spokesperson, after four months of fighting in the Khan Younis area. However, one brigade, Nahal, currently remains in the Gaza Strip, reported the Times of Israel. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war: Six months on, Gaza Health Ministry says 33,137 civilians killed An Israeli brigade is typically made up of a few thousand troops. According to the Israeli media, the brigade in question is tasked with securing the so-called Netzarim Corridor, which crosses Gaza from the Be’eri area in southern Israel to the Palestinian enclave’s coast. The brigade is also responsible for securing the corridor to prevent displaced Gazans from returning to the northern part of the Palestinian enclave. A report by Anadolu news agency citing Palestinian sources said Israeli forces retreated from all western areas of Khan Younis city and remained stationed in the east. The Israeli army completed its operation in Khan Younis and soldiers have completed their exit from there, reported Israel’s Channel 12. However, it was not immediately clear if the withdrawal would delay a long-threatened incursion into the southern Gaza city of Rafah where more than a million Palestinians have sought refuge amid the ongoing war. Also Read | Israeli troops recover body of hostage from Gaza’s Khan Younis, military says The IDF also announced the death of four soldiers in the southern Gaza Strip, on Sunday. At least 604 soldiers have been killed since the beginning of the war on October 7, and 3,193 others have been injured, according to Israeli officials. New round of ceasefire talks to be held in Cairo On Saturday (Apr 6), the Palestinian militant group said that it would send a delegation to Cairo, Egypt, for a new round of ceasefire talks which are expected to begin on Sunday. Hamas has reiterated its demands which it issued in the March 14 proposal before the UN Security Council (UNSC) which includes calling for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. On March 25, a resolution calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in the Palestinian enclave and an unconditional release of all hostages held in Gaza had passed in the UNSC. Meanwhile, an Israeli delegation is also expected to head to the Egyptian capital city, on Sunday for talks aimed at renewing the stalled talks with Hamas over the release of hostages being held in the Palestinian enclave. No Gaza truce without release of hostages: Netanyahu Israeli Prime Benjamin Netanyahu, on Sunday, said that Israel would not agree to a ceasefire until Hamas releases all the hostages being held in the Palestinian enclave. His comments came at the beginning of a weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem where he also said that despite growing international pressure, Israel would not give in to “extreme” demands from Hamas. Also Read | US on high alert over Iran attack threat in retaliation to Israeli strike on consulate in Syria “Israel is one step away from victory,” said Netanyahu, adding that, “Hamas is the one preventing a (hostage) deal.” Israeli embassies are ‘no longer safe’ Israeli embassies are “no longer safe,” warned Yahya Rahim Safavi, senior adviser to Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as quoted by news agency ISNA. This comes after Tehran blamed Israel for the attack on Iran’s consulate in Syria which killed at least 13 people in the Syrian capital city of Damascus, including seven members Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israeli military withdraws most troops from southern Gaza, says IDF spokesperson

As the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip completes six months, the World Central Kitchen (WCK) chief Jose Andres accuses Israel of conducting a "war against humanity itself.

As the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip completes six months, the World Central Kitchen (WCK) chief Jose Andres accuses Israel of conducting a "war against humanity itself." Speaking to ABC News, Andres said on Saturday (Apr 6) that this conflict did not seem like a war against terror. "It's been six months of targeting anything that seems moves. This doesn't seem a war against terror. This doesn't seem anymore a war about defending Israel. This really, at this point, seems is a war against humanity itself," he added. Seven WCK workers killed in Israeli strike Andres and his foundation the WCK recently made headlines after seven workers of the agency were killed in a strike on their aid convoy by the Israeli military on Monday (April 1). The strike, which Israel said was unintentional, took place in an area that was overseen by the Israeli military, according to Andres. Also read | Explained: Between killed, killers, and captives, Gaza completes a semester of war The seven aid workers killed included an Australian, three British citizens, and an American. Israel dismisses two officers for WCK killings Earlier this week, the Israeli military dismissed two officers and formally reprimanded senior commanders following an inquiry into the April 1 killings of the seven WCK workers. The inquiry found that the military mistakenly believed they were attacking Hamas gunmen when drones hit the three vehicles of the WCK, and that standard procedure had not been followed. Also watch | Six months into Israel-Hamas war, no end to devastation in Gaza × "The strike on the aid vehicles is a grave mistake stemming from a serious failure due to a mistaken identification, errors in decision-making, and an attack contrary to the Standard Operating Procedures," the military said on Friday. The military's justification came as the WCK demanded an independent commission to investigate the killings, saying that Israel could not credibly investigate its own "failure." (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: World Central Kitchen chief says Israel conducting 'war against humanity itself'

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Apr 6) released a statement saying that it has refused to "back down" from its demands for a Gaza truce deal.

However, it said that it would send its delegation for renewed talks on a ceasefire in Egypt's Cairo over the weekend.

"Hamas confirms its adherence to the position it presented on March 14 ... and we will not back down from this position," it said in a statement.

The group further reiterated its set of demands.

"The demands ... are complete ceasefire, withdrawal of the occupation forces from Gaza, the return of the displaced to their residential areas, freedom of movement of the people, offering them aid and shelter, and a serious hostage exchange deal," it said.

Hamas' statement came hours after US President Joe Biden urged an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-troops-recover-body-of-hostage-from-gazas-khan-younis-military-says-708410">Israeli troops recover body of hostage from Gaza’s Khan Younis, military says</a>

<h2>Biden calls on&nbsp;Egypt&nbsp;and Qatar to press Hamas on hostage deal&nbsp;</h2>

United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Apr 6) urged Egypt and Qatar to press the militant group to conform to a Gaza truce and hostage deal ahead of ceasefire talks in Cairo.

A senior Biden administration official said that the US president wrote letters to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, on the state of the hostage talks and "he urged them to secure commitments from Hamas to agree and abide by a deal."

Biden held a telephonic conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Apr 4) where the leaders discussed the hostage negotiations and the round of talks in Cairo.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that Biden told Netanyahu to empower Israeli negotiators in Cairo so that the deal could be reached.

"This basic fact remains true: There would be a ceasefire in Gaza today had Hamas simply agreed to release this vulnerable category of hostages – the sick, wounded, elderly, and young women," the senior Biden official said.

"The onus is on Hamas to release the hostages and bring relief to the people of Gaza through a prolonged ceasefire," the official said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Apr 6) released a statement saying that it has refused to "back down" from its demands for a Gaza truce deal. However, it said that it would send its delegation for renewed talks on a ceasefire in Egypt's Cairo over the weekend.

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Apr 6) released a statement saying that it has refused to "back down" from its demands for a Gaza truce deal. However, it said that it would send its delegation for renewed talks on a ceasefire in Egypt's Cairo over the weekend. "Hamas confirms its adherence to the position it presented on March 14 ... and we will not back down from this position," it said in a statement. The group further reiterated its set of demands. "The demands ... are complete ceasefire, withdrawal of the occupation forces from Gaza, the return of the displaced to their residential areas, freedom of movement of the people, offering them aid and shelter, and a serious hostage exchange deal," it said. Hamas' statement came hours after US President Joe Biden urged an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza. Also read: Israeli troops recover body of hostage from Gaza’s Khan Younis, military says Biden calls on Egypt and Qatar to press Hamas on hostage deal United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Apr 6) urged Egypt and Qatar to press the militant group to conform to a Gaza truce and hostage deal ahead of ceasefire talks in Cairo. A senior Biden administration official said that the US president wrote letters to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, on the state of the hostage talks and "he urged them to secure commitments from Hamas to agree and abide by a deal." Biden held a telephonic conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Apr 4) where the leaders discussed the hostage negotiations and the round of talks in Cairo. White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that Biden told Netanyahu to empower Israeli negotiators in Cairo so that the deal could be reached. "This basic fact remains true: There would be a ceasefire in Gaza today had Hamas simply agreed to release this vulnerable category of hostages – the sick, wounded, elderly, and young women," the senior Biden official said. "The onus is on Hamas to release the hostages and bring relief to the people of Gaza through a prolonged ceasefire," the official said. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas says will not ‘back down’ on demands for Gaza truce deal

The Israeli military on Saturday (Apr 6) said that its army personnel recovered the body of a hostage who was held captive by Hamas when it launched an unprecedented assault against Israel on October 7 last year.

The troops said that the hostage was killed in captivity in the war-torn Gaza Strip.

Identified as Elad Katzir, the victim was a 47-year-old farmer from Kibbutz Nir Oz who was dragged into the besieged Palestinian enclave along with 253 others during the October 7 cross-border firing by the Hamas militant group after which Israel launched its ongoing counter-offensive in Gaza.

The recovery of Katzir's body brings the number of killed hostages to 12 which the military says it has brought home from Gaza during the war.

The Israeli army released a statement saying that "the body of the abductee Elad Katzir, who according to intelligence was murdered in captivity by the Islamic Jihad terrorist organisation, was rescued overnight from Khan Yunis and returned to Israeli territory".

Katzir was abducted along with his mother Hanna at the time of the attack.

Hanna was released on Nov 24 during a one-week truce during the war in Gaza.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charity-questions-credibility-of-israeli-inquiry-findings-on-aid-worker-killings-708219">Charity questions credibility of Israeli inquiry findings on killing of aid workers</a>

Katzir's father was killed during the attack at the kibbutz, said the army.

The military said that as per its intelligence, Katzir was murdered in mid-January after the Islamic Jihad released a video of him in captivity.

"He was buried in the ground," a military official told journalists at a briefing, as per news agency AFP reports.

The officials said that following the suggestions shared by the Israeli intelligence, the troops reached the site and "began excavation" work to recover Katzir's body.

"Their efforts resulted in the discovery of the body, which was then transported to Israel for further examination," he said.&nbsp;

<h2>Katzir's sister blames authorities for brother's death</h2>

Katzir's sister denounced the authorities calling them "cowardly and driven by political consideration" and blamed them for his brother's death.

"Elad was kidnapped from his home in Nir Oz in one piece," Carmit Palty Katzir wrote on her Facebook page.

"Our leadership is cowardly and driven by political consideration, which is why this deal has not happened yet," she wrote.

"Prime Minister, war cabinet, and coalition members: Look at yourself in the mirror and say if your hands didn't spill blood."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli military on Saturday (Apr 6) said that its army personnel recovered the body of a hostage who was held captive by Hamas when it launched an unprecedented assault against Israel on October 7 last year.

The Israeli military on Saturday (Apr 6) said that its army personnel recovered the body of a hostage who was held captive by Hamas when it launched an unprecedented assault against Israel on October 7 last year. The troops said that the hostage was killed in captivity in the war-torn Gaza Strip. Identified as Elad Katzir, the victim was a 47-year-old farmer from Kibbutz Nir Oz who was dragged into the besieged Palestinian enclave along with 253 others during the October 7 cross-border firing by the Hamas militant group after which Israel launched its ongoing counter-offensive in Gaza. The recovery of Katzir's body brings the number of killed hostages to 12 which the military says it has brought home from Gaza during the war. The Israeli army released a statement saying that "the body of the abductee Elad Katzir, who according to intelligence was murdered in captivity by the Islamic Jihad terrorist organisation, was rescued overnight from Khan Yunis and returned to Israeli territory". Katzir was abducted along with his mother Hanna at the time of the attack. Hanna was released on Nov 24 during a one-week truce during the war in Gaza. Also read: Charity questions credibility of Israeli inquiry findings on killing of aid workers Katzir's father was killed during the attack at the kibbutz, said the army. The military said that as per its intelligence, Katzir was murdered in mid-January after the Islamic Jihad released a video of him in captivity. "He was buried in the ground," a military official told journalists at a briefing, as per news agency AFP reports. The officials said that following the suggestions shared by the Israeli intelligence, the troops reached the site and "began excavation" work to recover Katzir's body. "Their efforts resulted in the discovery of the body, which was then transported to Israel for further examination," he said. Katzir's sister blames authorities for brother's death Katzir's sister denounced the authorities calling them "cowardly and driven by political consideration" and blamed them for his brother's death. "Elad was kidnapped from his home in Nir Oz in one piece," Carmit Palty Katzir wrote on her Facebook page. "Our leadership is cowardly and driven by political consideration, which is why this deal has not happened yet," she wrote. "Prime Minister, war cabinet, and coalition members: Look at yourself in the mirror and say if your hands didn't spill blood." (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli troops recover body of hostage from Gaza’s Khan Younis, military says

A fresh round of Gaza ceasefire talks will take place in Cairo this weekend. And the return of Palestinians to the region's northern part has become a crucial issue in the truce talks, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on Saturday (Apr 6) citing officials.

A fresh round of Gaza ceasefire talks will take place in Cairo this weekend. And the return of Palestinians to the region's northern part has become a crucial issue in the truce talks, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on Saturday (Apr 6) citing officials. The report said that an agreement to allow civilians to return to the north could ease the United States' concerns about the expected Israeli offensive in Rafah. Under the most recent proposal, Israel and Hamas, which have been at war since October last year, would agree to a six-week ceasefire in exchange for the release of sick, elderly and wounded hostages held by the Palestinian militant group. As per the report, Arab mediators involved in ceasefire talks said that Israel has been open to permitting returns to the north at a rate of 2,000 people a day, mainly women and children. A maximum of 60,000 Palestinians could return under a proposal deemed acceptable by Israel, the report said. But this would mostly exclude Palestinian men between the ages of 18 and 50. Also read | US approved more bombs to Israel on same day aid workers were killed in Gaza: Report According to Arab officials, the return of the displaced civilians could begin 10 days to two weeks after a six-week ceasefire is implemented. Meanwhile, Israeli and Egyptian officials said that the civilians would have to pass through Israeli military checkpoints to prevent Hamas militants from re-infiltrating the war-torn region's north. Ahead of truce talks, an appeal by Joe Biden On Friday, US President Joe Biden urged Egyptian and Qatari leaders to pressure Hamas to agree to the Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal ahead of the talks in Cairo. Biden wrote letters to his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, urging them to secure commitments from Hamas to agree and abide by a deal. Also watch | People in Gaza forced to survive on 245 calories per day, finds Oxfam × Biden's appeal came a day after he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The two leaders discussed ongoing hostage negotiations and the round of talks in Cairo. The US president told Netanyahu to empower his negotiators in Cairo so that a deal can be reached as soon as possible. 16 arrested for pro-Hamas chants at al-Aqsa mosque In the latest news from the conflict, the Israeli Police arrested 16 people for incitement and pro-Hamas chants during the dawn prayers at Jerusalem's al-Aqsa mosque. According to a report by The Times of Israel on Saturday, the police said that one person was arrested for shooting fireworks at police, while the others were held for incitement to violence and terrorism after they began chanting in support of Hamas. Thousands of worshippers gathered at the mosque on Friday night to hold prayers overnight to mark Laylat al-Qadr. The police said that most of the arrested were from East Jerusalem and northern Israel. The police also fired tear gas to disperse worshippers following the prayers. (With inputs from agencies)

In Gaza ceasefire talks, return of Palestinians to region’s north becomes crucial issue

The United States reportedly approved the supply of thousands of bombs to Israel on the same day foreign aid workers of the World Central Kitchen (WCK) were killed in airstrikes, the Washington Post reported on Thursday (Apr 4) citing officials.&nbsp;

Other US-based media outlets also reported that the Biden administration approved the transfer of more than 1,000 MK82 500lb bombs, more than 1,000 small-diameter bombs, and fuses for MK80 bombs.&nbsp;

Seven aid workers were killed in Gaza when their convoy was hit during an airstrike, with charity founder Jose Andres alleging that Israel targeted them "systematically, car by car". They were leaving the Deir al-Balah warehouse.&nbsp;

Andres told the Reuters news agency, "This was not just a bad luck situation where 'oops' we dropped the bomb in the wrong place. This was over 1.5, 1.8 kilometres, with a very defined humanitarian convoy that had signs in the top, on the roof, a very colourful logo that we are obviously very proud of."&nbsp;

"It's very clear who we are and what we do," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-netanyahu-hold-1st-talk-as-tensions-rise-after-aid-workers-killed-707837">Biden, Netanyahu hold talk - first after WCK aid workers killed in Israeli strikes</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Use of US weapons in Gaza war&nbsp;</h2>

The US officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that the weapons are part of authorisations which were granted by Congress several years before the ongoing war between Israel-Hamas war started.&nbsp;

Recently, before the strike on the aid workers' convoy, Secretary of State Antony Blinken was asked about the continued transfer of arms to Israel, to which he replied that such deals are needed to thwart regional threats to Israel from Iran and Hezbollah.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-uses-unparalleled-ai-to-target-suspected-hamas-militants-machine-did-it-coldly-707460">Israel using 'unparalleled' AI to list out suspected Hamas targets: Report</a>&nbsp;

Watch: Red Sea Crisis: US to remove Houthis from terror list?

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He reportedly said on Tuesday that the weapons "go to deterrence, trying to avoid more conflicts. They go to replenishment of their supplies and their stocks". However, there are several incidents which confirm that US weapons are being used in Gaza.&nbsp;

The incident led to global condemnation, even from allies who have previously defended Israel's right to defend itself. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed condolences, calling it a "tragic incident". But he also said that "such accidents happen in wartime".&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;

The United States reportedly approved the supply of thousands of bombs to Israel on the same day foreign aid workers of the World Central Kitchen (WCK) were killed in airstrikes, the Washington Post reported on Thursday (Apr 4) citing officials.

The United States reportedly approved the supply of thousands of bombs to Israel on the same day foreign aid workers of the World Central Kitchen (WCK) were killed in airstrikes, the Washington Post reported on Thursday (Apr 4) citing officials. Other US-based media outlets also reported that the Biden administration approved the transfer of more than 1,000 MK82 500lb bombs, more than 1,000 small-diameter bombs, and fuses for MK80 bombs. Seven aid workers were killed in Gaza when their convoy was hit during an airstrike, with charity founder Jose Andres alleging that Israel targeted them "systematically, car by car". They were leaving the Deir al-Balah warehouse. Andres told the Reuters news agency, "This was not just a bad luck situation where 'oops' we dropped the bomb in the wrong place. This was over 1.5, 1.8 kilometres, with a very defined humanitarian convoy that had signs in the top, on the roof, a very colourful logo that we are obviously very proud of." "It's very clear who we are and what we do," he added. Also read: Biden, Netanyahu hold talk - first after WCK aid workers killed in Israeli strikes Use of US weapons in Gaza war The US officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that the weapons are part of authorisations which were granted by Congress several years before the ongoing war between Israel-Hamas war started. Recently, before the strike on the aid workers' convoy, Secretary of State Antony Blinken was asked about the continued transfer of arms to Israel, to which he replied that such deals are needed to thwart regional threats to Israel from Iran and Hezbollah. Also read: Israel using 'unparalleled' AI to list out suspected Hamas targets: Report Watch: Red Sea Crisis: US to remove Houthis from terror list? × He reportedly said on Tuesday that the weapons "go to deterrence, trying to avoid more conflicts. They go to replenishment of their supplies and their stocks". However, there are several incidents which confirm that US weapons are being used in Gaza. The incident led to global condemnation, even from allies who have previously defended Israel's right to defend itself. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed condolences, calling it a "tragic incident". But he also said that "such accidents happen in wartime". 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 approved more bombs to Israel on same day aid workers were killed in Gaza: Report

Israel reportedly used an Artificial Intelligence-based programme identified as "Lavender" to identify thousands of Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip and bomb them.&nbsp;

The report emerged amid Hamas leader abroad, Ismail Haniyeh, saying in a Wednesday (Apr 3) speech that the militant group is sticking to its original ceasefire and hostage negotiations demand&nbsp;that Israel must halt all military operations in the Gaza Strip. &nbsp;

The ongoing war started after Hamas militants launched an unprecedented cross-border attack on Israel, killing about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, as per official Israeli figures.&nbsp;

Hamas also took some 250 people hostage, some of whom were later returned as part of a deal in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. In the aftermath of the attack, Israel responded with several strikes on Gaza that have killed more than 30,000 people, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-hosts-muslim-leaders-in-muted-ramadan-event-amid-israel-hamas-war-707162">Biden hosts Muslim leaders in muted Ramadan event amid Israel-Hamas war</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Use of AI to target Hamas?</h2>

In a report by the news agency AFP, security experts have said that Israel's ability to track down suspected Hamas militants is aided by unprecedented use of AI. It is generating targets at a much faster rate than was previously possible. The system is also estimating the collateral damage from its strikes.&nbsp;

With the use of the AI system, Israeli military officials reportedly allowed large numbers of Palestinian civilians to be killed. This mostly happened in the early weeks and months of the conflict.&nbsp;

As quoted by The Guardian, one intelligence officer who used Lavender, said, "This is unparalleled, in my memory." He added that they had more faith in a "statistical mechanism" than a grieving soldier.&nbsp;

"Everyone there, including me, lost people on October 7. The machine did it coldly. And that made it easier," the official added.&nbsp;

At least six of those who used that AI system gave testimonies&nbsp;to journalist Yuval Abraham for a report published by the Israeli-Palestinian publication +972 Magazine and the Hebrew-language outlet Local Call.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/woman-of-indian-descent-among-6-international-aid-workers-slain-in-israeli-strike-in-gaza-707129">Woman of Indian descent among 6 international aid workers killed in Israeli strike in Gaza</a>&nbsp;

The AFP report also mentioned that the&nbsp;Israel Defense Forces (IDF) first advertised its use of AI-powered targeting after an 11-day conflict in Gaza in May 2021. The commanders had described it as the world's "first AI war".

The military chief during that conflict, Aviv Kohavi, reportedly told Israeli media ahead of the October 7 attacks that AI systems had enabled the IDF to identify "100 new targets every day". As compared to it, the&nbsp;human analysts could previously produce only "50 targets in a year". &nbsp;

In a blog on the Israeli military's website in November, it was noted that&nbsp;its AI-enhanced "targeting directorate"&nbsp;had identified more than 12,000 targets in just 27 days.&nbsp;

Another AI system&nbsp;called Habsora (The Gospel), produced targets "for precise attacks on infrastructure associated with Hamas, inflicting great damage on the enemy and minimal harm to those not involved," an unnamed Israeli official was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Joint World Bank-UN report pegs Gaza's damages at $18.5 billion&nbsp;

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<h2>Death of aid workers in Gaza&nbsp;</h2>

Israel has been facing wrath because of the current humanitarian situation in Gaza and the recent death of foreign aid workers. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the incident a "tragic incident", but also said that "such accidents happen in wartime".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said explanations provided by Israel about the killing of seven people working for the aid charity World Central Kitchen in a Gaza airstrike were insufficient and unacceptable, demanding further details.

"That is unacceptable and insufficient, and we are awaiting a much stronger and more detailed clarification, after which we'll see what action to take," Sanchez told a news briefing on Wednesday while visiting Qatar.

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;

Israel reportedly used an Artificial Intelligence-based programme identified as "Lavender" to identify thousands of Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip and bomb them.

Israel reportedly used an Artificial Intelligence-based programme identified as "Lavender" to identify thousands of Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip and bomb them. The report emerged amid Hamas leader abroad, Ismail Haniyeh, saying in a Wednesday (Apr 3) speech that the militant group is sticking to its original ceasefire and hostage negotiations demand that Israel must halt all military operations in the Gaza Strip. The ongoing war started after Hamas militants launched an unprecedented cross-border attack on Israel, killing about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, as per official Israeli figures. Hamas also took some 250 people hostage, some of whom were later returned as part of a deal in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. In the aftermath of the attack, Israel responded with several strikes on Gaza that have killed more than 30,000 people, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. Also read: Biden hosts Muslim leaders in muted Ramadan event amid Israel-Hamas war Use of AI to target Hamas? In a report by the news agency AFP, security experts have said that Israel's ability to track down suspected Hamas militants is aided by unprecedented use of AI. It is generating targets at a much faster rate than was previously possible. The system is also estimating the collateral damage from its strikes. With the use of the AI system, Israeli military officials reportedly allowed large numbers of Palestinian civilians to be killed. This mostly happened in the early weeks and months of the conflict. As quoted by The Guardian, one intelligence officer who used Lavender, said, "This is unparalleled, in my memory." He added that they had more faith in a "statistical mechanism" than a grieving soldier. "Everyone there, including me, lost people on October 7. The machine did it coldly. And that made it easier," the official added. At least six of those who used that AI system gave testimonies to journalist Yuval Abraham for a report published by the Israeli-Palestinian publication +972 Magazine and the Hebrew-language outlet Local Call. Also read: Woman of Indian descent among 6 international aid workers killed in Israeli strike in Gaza The AFP report also mentioned that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) first advertised its use of AI-powered targeting after an 11-day conflict in Gaza in May 2021. The commanders had described it as the world's "first AI war". The military chief during that conflict, Aviv Kohavi, reportedly told Israeli media ahead of the October 7 attacks that AI systems had enabled the IDF to identify "100 new targets every day". As compared to it, the human analysts could previously produce only "50 targets in a year". In a blog on the Israeli military's website in November, it was noted that its AI-enhanced "targeting directorate" had identified more than 12,000 targets in just 27 days. Another AI system called Habsora (The Gospel), produced targets "for precise attacks on infrastructure associated with Hamas, inflicting great damage on the enemy and minimal harm to those not involved," an unnamed Israeli official was quoted as saying. Watch: Joint World Bank-UN report pegs Gaza's damages at $18.5 billion × Death of aid workers in Gaza Israel has been facing wrath because of the current humanitarian situation in Gaza and the recent death of foreign aid workers. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the incident a "tragic incident", but also said that "such accidents happen in wartime". Meanwhile, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said explanations provided by Israel about the killing of seven people working for the aid charity World Central Kitchen in a Gaza airstrike were insufficient and unacceptable, demanding further details. "That is unacceptable and insufficient, and we are awaiting a much stronger and more detailed clarification, after which we'll see what action to take," Sanchez told a news briefing on Wednesday while visiting Qatar. 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 using 'unparalleled' AI to list out suspected Hamas targets: Report

The Israeli army has been using artificial intelligence (AI) to identify targets for its bombing spree in Gaza, revealed a report on Wednesday (Apr 3).

According to an investigation by +972 Magazine and Local Call, the Israeli AI-based tool, named "Lavender," had a 10 per cent error rate.

<h2>Who developed Lavender?</h2>

As per the investigation, 'Lavender' was developed by Unit 8200, the Israel Defense Forces' elite intelligence division.

Unit 8200, the Israeli Intelligence Corps unit of the Israel Defense Forces responsible for clandestine operations, is comparable to the United States's National Security Agency or GCHQ in the United Kingdom.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-uses-unparalleled-ai-to-target-suspected-hamas-militants-machine-did-it-coldly-707460">Israel using 'unparalleled' AI to list out suspected Hamas targets: Report</a>

<h2>How does Lavender work?</h2>

The Lavender system is said to mark suspected operatives in the military wings of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) as potential bombing targets, including low-ranking individuals.&nbsp;

The software analyses data collected through mass surveillance on most of Gaza's 2.3 million residents, assessing and ranking the likelihood of each person's involvement in the military wing of Hamas or PIJ.

Individuals are given a rating of 1 to 100, indicating their likelihood of being a militant.

Lavender learns to identify characteristics of known operatives from Hamas and PIJ and then identifies similar characteristics among the general population. Individuals with multiple incriminating features are assigned higher ratings, making them potential targets for assassination.

<h2>How accurate is it?</h2>

As per the report, even though the AI machine has an error rate of 10 per cent, its outputs were treated "as if it were a human decision".

Citing six Israeli intelligence officials involved in the alleged programme, the investigation revealed that during the initial stages of the conflict in Gaza, the military heavily relied on Lavender. It identified as many as 37,000 (most of them junior) Palestinians as suspected militants for potential airstrikes and assassination.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-targeted-aid-convoy-systematically-car-by-car-and-killed-his-staff-members-alleges-wck-founder-707466">Israel targeted aid convoy 'systematically, car by car' and killed his staff members, alleges WCK founder</a>

These officials said that the outputs of the AI machine were treated "as if it were a human decision," and alleged that the human review of the suggested targets was cursory at best.

Reportedly, the approval "to automatically adopt Lavender's kill lists" was given about two weeks into the war. Before that, they were only treated as an "auxiliary tool".

This approval was granted after an intelligence officer manually checked the accuracy of a random sample of several hundred targets selected by the AI system and found that Lavender's results had 90 per cent accuracy in identifying targets.

"From that moment, sources said that if Lavender decided an individual was a militant in Hamas, they were essentially asked to treat that as an order, with no requirement to independently check why the machine made that choice or to examine the raw intelligence data on which it is based," reports the publication.

A senior official identified as 'B' confirmed that officers were not required to review the AI system's assessments "in order to save time and enable the mass production of human targets without hindrances".

"Everything was statistical, everything was neat — it was very dry," he noted.

"In war, there is no time to incriminate every target. So you’re willing to take the margin of error of using artificial intelligence, risking collateral damage and civilians dying, and risking attacking by mistake, and to live with it," said another officer.

<h2>Civilian casualties and 'collateral damage'</h2>

As per the report, two sources also alleged that the Israeli army, in an unprecedented move, decided during the first weeks of the war that for every junior Hamas operative that Lavender marked, it was permissible to kill up to 15 or 20 civilians. Before that, the military did not authorise any "collateral damage" during assassinations of low-ranking militants.&nbsp;

For targets that were a senior Hamas official with the rank of battalion or brigade commander, the army reportedly on several occasions authorised the killing of more than 100 civilians per assassination.

The report alleges that to assassinate the junior militants, the Israeli army preferred to only&nbsp;use "dumb" bombs.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Joint World Bank-UN report pegs Gaza's damages at $18.5 billion&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-joint-world-bank-un-report-pegs-gazas-damages-at-185-billion-707081/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Dumb bombs are unguided missiles that can&nbsp;destroy entire buildings on top of their occupants and cause significant casualties. These were used instead of 'smart' precision bombs because "you don’t want to waste expensive bombs on unimportant people — it’s very expensive for the country and there’s a shortage [of those bombs]," an intelligence officer identified as 'C' told the publication.

Another source told&nbsp;+972 magazine that they had personally authorised the bombing of "hundreds" of private homes of alleged junior operatives that the AI tool&nbsp;Lavender had&nbsp;marked. These attacks killed many civilians, ending entire families, all labelled as mere "collateral damage".

One source said that they nicknamed low-ranking militants on the AI kill lists 'garbage targets,' but said these were "more ethical than the targets that we bombed just for 'deterrence' — highrises that are evacuated and toppled just to cause destruction."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli army has been using artificial intelligence (AI) to identify targets for its bombing spree in Gaza, revealed a report on Wednesday (Apr 3). According to an investigation by +972 Magazine and Local Call, the Israeli AI-based tool, named "Lavender," had a 10 per cent error rate.

The Israeli army has been using artificial intelligence (AI) to identify targets for its bombing spree in Gaza, revealed a report on Wednesday (Apr 3). According to an investigation by +972 Magazine and Local Call, the Israeli AI-based tool, named "Lavender," had a 10 per cent error rate. Who developed Lavender? As per the investigation, 'Lavender' was developed by Unit 8200, the Israel Defense Forces' elite intelligence division. Unit 8200, the Israeli Intelligence Corps unit of the Israel Defense Forces responsible for clandestine operations, is comparable to the United States's National Security Agency or GCHQ in the United Kingdom. Also read | Israel using 'unparalleled' AI to list out suspected Hamas targets: Report How does Lavender work? The Lavender system is said to mark suspected operatives in the military wings of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) as potential bombing targets, including low-ranking individuals. The software analyses data collected through mass surveillance on most of Gaza's 2.3 million residents, assessing and ranking the likelihood of each person's involvement in the military wing of Hamas or PIJ. Individuals are given a rating of 1 to 100, indicating their likelihood of being a militant. Lavender learns to identify characteristics of known operatives from Hamas and PIJ and then identifies similar characteristics among the general population. Individuals with multiple incriminating features are assigned higher ratings, making them potential targets for assassination. How accurate is it? As per the report, even though the AI machine has an error rate of 10 per cent, its outputs were treated "as if it were a human decision". Citing six Israeli intelligence officials involved in the alleged programme, the investigation revealed that during the initial stages of the conflict in Gaza, the military heavily relied on Lavender. It identified as many as 37,000 (most of them junior) Palestinians as suspected militants for potential airstrikes and assassination. Also read | Israel targeted aid convoy 'systematically, car by car' and killed his staff members, alleges WCK founder These officials said that the outputs of the AI machine were treated "as if it were a human decision," and alleged that the human review of the suggested targets was cursory at best. Reportedly, the approval "to automatically adopt Lavender's kill lists" was given about two weeks into the war. Before that, they were only treated as an "auxiliary tool". This approval was granted after an intelligence officer manually checked the accuracy of a random sample of several hundred targets selected by the AI system and found that Lavender's results had 90 per cent accuracy in identifying targets. "From that moment, sources said that if Lavender decided an individual was a militant in Hamas, they were essentially asked to treat that as an order, with no requirement to independently check why the machine made that choice or to examine the raw intelligence data on which it is based," reports the publication. A senior official identified as 'B' confirmed that officers were not required to review the AI system's assessments "in order to save time and enable the mass production of human targets without hindrances". "Everything was statistical, everything was neat — it was very dry," he noted. "In war, there is no time to incriminate every target. So you’re willing to take the margin of error of using artificial intelligence, risking collateral damage and civilians dying, and risking attacking by mistake, and to live with it," said another officer. Civilian casualties and 'collateral damage' As per the report, two sources also alleged that the Israeli army, in an unprecedented move, decided during the first weeks of the war that for every junior Hamas operative that Lavender marked, it was permissible to kill up to 15 or 20 civilians. Before that, the military did not authorise any "collateral damage" during assassinations of low-ranking militants. For targets that were a senior Hamas official with the rank of battalion or brigade commander, the army reportedly on several occasions authorised the killing of more than 100 civilians per assassination. The report alleges that to assassinate the junior militants, the Israeli army preferred to only use "dumb" bombs. Watch: Joint World Bank-UN report pegs Gaza's damages at $18.5 billion Dumb bombs are unguided missiles that can destroy entire buildings on top of their occupants and cause significant casualties. These were used instead of 'smart' precision bombs because "you don’t want to waste expensive bombs on unimportant people — it’s very expensive for the country and there’s a shortage [of those bombs]," an intelligence officer identified as 'C' told the publication. Another source told +972 magazine that they had personally authorised the bombing of "hundreds" of private homes of alleged junior operatives that the AI tool Lavender had marked. These attacks killed many civilians, ending entire families, all labelled as mere "collateral damage". One source said that they nicknamed low-ranking militants on the AI kill lists 'garbage targets,' but said these were "more ethical than the targets that we bombed just for 'deterrence' — highrises that are evacuated and toppled just to cause destruction." (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Israeli military's use of AI tool 'Lavender' to generate kill lists

A scaled-down iftar dinner was hosted by the White House on Tuesday (April 2) to celebrate the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.&nbsp;

The event happened after President Joe Biden's invitation was turned down by some invitees who were part of the Muslim community and were against his policies about the Israel-Gaza war.

President Biden held talks with the Muslim leaders and later had a small dinner with senior Muslim officials, who were part of his administration. Biden was accompanied by First Lady Jill Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-speaks-to-xi-jinping-on-phone-talks-about-cooperative-issues-and-global-crises-706997">Joe Biden speaks to Xi Jinping on phone, talks about global crises, AI, and climate issues</a>

"President Biden will host a meeting with Muslim community leaders to discuss issues of importance to the community," said the White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, while speaking to the reporters on Tuesday (April 2) before the gathering, as she explained that these leaders will rather have a meeting than a dinner.

The White House "adjusted the format to be responsive," Jean-Pierre said.&nbsp;

<h2>Muslim leaders turn Biden critic amid Gaza war</h2>

One of the attendees was an emergency room doctor Dr Thaer Ahmad who was in Gaza for at least three weeks.

While speaking to CNN, he said that he walked out of the meeting on Tuesday (April 2) before it ended.

"Out of respect for my community, out of respect for all of the people who have suffered and who have been killed in the process, I needed to walk out of the meeting," said Ahmad.

Ahmad, who claimed that he was the only Palestinian-American present in the meeting, said "there wasn't a lot of response" from Biden. "He actually said he understood, and I walked away," said Ahmad, while speaking to CNN.

The event appears starkly different from the reception hosted by Biden last May to mark the end of Ramadan. Various attendees cheered Biden at the White House when he told them, "It's your house."

Watch:&nbsp;Biden &amp; Xi meet: China media calls talk 'candid &amp; deep', military officials to talk soon

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/biden-xi-meet-china-media-calls-talk-candid-deep-military-officials-to-talk-soon-707109/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Muslim members of Congress, who were part of that event, were Rashida Tlaib, who is Palestinian American and Representative Ilhan Omar. They have turned into the biggest critics of Biden's Gaza policy.

Emgage Action, a Muslim American advocacy group, refused to attend the dinner, citing Biden's "continued unconditional military aid to Israel," which they say has led to a "humanitarian catastrophe of epic proportions."

(With inputs from agencies)

A scaled-down iftar dinner was hosted by the White House on Tuesday (April 2) to celebrate the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. The event happened after President Joe Biden's invitation was turned down by some invitees who were part of the Muslim community and were against his policies about the Israel-Gaza war.

A scaled-down iftar dinner was hosted by the White House on Tuesday (April 2) to celebrate the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. The event happened after President Joe Biden's invitation was turned down by some invitees who were part of the Muslim community and were against his policies about the Israel-Gaza war. President Biden held talks with the Muslim leaders and later had a small dinner with senior Muslim officials, who were part of his administration. Biden was accompanied by First Lady Jill Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband. Also Read: Joe Biden speaks to Xi Jinping on phone, talks about global crises, AI, and climate issues "President Biden will host a meeting with Muslim community leaders to discuss issues of importance to the community," said the White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, while speaking to the reporters on Tuesday (April 2) before the gathering, as she explained that these leaders will rather have a meeting than a dinner. The White House "adjusted the format to be responsive," Jean-Pierre said. Muslim leaders turn Biden critic amid Gaza war One of the attendees was an emergency room doctor Dr Thaer Ahmad who was in Gaza for at least three weeks. While speaking to CNN, he said that he walked out of the meeting on Tuesday (April 2) before it ended. "Out of respect for my community, out of respect for all of the people who have suffered and who have been killed in the process, I needed to walk out of the meeting," said Ahmad. Ahmad, who claimed that he was the only Palestinian-American present in the meeting, said "there wasn't a lot of response" from Biden. "He actually said he understood, and I walked away," said Ahmad, while speaking to CNN. The event appears starkly different from the reception hosted by Biden last May to mark the end of Ramadan. Various attendees cheered Biden at the White House when he told them, "It's your house." Watch: Biden & Xi meet: China media calls talk 'candid & deep', military officials to talk soon Muslim members of Congress, who were part of that event, were Rashida Tlaib, who is Palestinian American and Representative Ilhan Omar. They have turned into the biggest critics of Biden's Gaza policy. Emgage Action, a Muslim American advocacy group, refused to attend the dinner, citing Biden's "continued unconditional military aid to Israel," which they say has led to a "humanitarian catastrophe of epic proportions." (With inputs from agencies)

Biden hosts Muslim leaders in muted Ramadan event amid Israel-Hamas war

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday an Israeli airstrike had mistakenly killed seven people working for the aid charity World Central Kitchen in Gaza, and the US&nbsp;and other allies called for explanations amid widespread condemnation.

Israel's military voiced "sincere sorrow" over the incident, which ratcheted up international pressure for steps to ease the disastrous humanitarian situation in Gaza nearly six months into Israel's siege and invasion of the Palestinian enclave.

The strike on the World Central Kitchen convoy killed citizens of Australia, Britain and Poland as well as Palestinians and a dual citizen of the United States and Canada.

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel under pressure over aid workers' deaths

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-israel-under-pressure-over-aid-workers-deaths-706941/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

WCK, which was founded by celebrity chef Jose Andres, said they had been travelling in two armoured cars emblazoned with the charity's logo and another vehicle.

"Unfortunately in the past day there was a tragic event in which our forces unintentionally harmed non-combatants in the Gaza Strip," Netanyahu said in a video statement.&nbsp;

"This happens in war. We are conducting a thorough inquiry and are in contact with the governments. We will do everything to prevent a recurrence."

The Israeli military (IDF) pledged an investigation by "an independent, professional and expert body".

Britain summoned Israel's ambassador in London to express its "unequivocal condemnation of the appalling killing" of the WCK workers, three of whom were British nationals, and called for an urgent explanation from Israel of how this had occurred.

The United States, Israel's closest ally, said that there was no evidence Israel deliberately targeted the aid workers but that it was outraged by their deaths and Israel had an obligation to ensure aid workers in Gaza were not harmed.

The White House said it expected a broad and impartial investigation to be carried out with appropriate accountability.

"These people are heroes, they run into the fire, not away from it," US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken said of the seven aid workers, speaking to reporters in Paris. "We shouldn't have a situation where people who are simply trying to help their fellow human beings are themselves at grave risk."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-warns-israel-will-pay-for-attack-on-irans-damascus-consulate-706691">Hezbollah warns ‘Israel will pay' for attack on Iran's Damascus consulate</a>

Israel has long denied accusations that it is hindering the distribution of urgently needed food aid in Gaza, which it has besieged in a war since October, saying the problem is caused by international aid groups' inability to get it to those in need.

Despite coordinating movements with the Israeli military, the convoy was hit as it was leaving its Deir al-Balah warehouse after unloading more than 100 tons of humanitarian food aid brought to Gaza by sea, WCK said.

"This is not only an attack against WCK, this is an attack on humanitarian organisations showing up in the most dire of situations where food is being used as a weapon of war," said Erin Gore, chief executive of World Central Kitchen.

"This is unforgivable."

In Cyprus, officials said seaborne aid for Gaza civilians was returning to the eastern Mediterranean island following the killing of the WCK workers, after the US-based charity said it would pause work in the enclave.

The United Arab Emirates, which had been the main financier for WCK's aid efforts through the maritime corridor, said it was pausing such shipments from Cyprus pending further safety guarantees from Israel and a full investigation.

<h2>INCREASING ISRAELI ISOLATION</h2>

Australia, Britain and Poland, countries which have generally been friendly towards Israel, all demanded action to protect aid workers, underlining Netanyahu's increasing diplomatic isolation over the situation in Gaza.

At least 196 humanitarian workers have been killed in Gaza since a Hamas attack on Israel on October&nbsp;7 triggered Israel's assault on the Hamas-ruled enclave, and the deaths of the WCK staffers were "the inevitable result of the way this war is currently being conducted", UN&nbsp;spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday.

Asked by reporters what the UN&nbsp;would say to the Israeli government over the airstrike, he said, "The message is: Let humanitarian workers do their job."

Israel has been under rising international pressure to alleviate severe hunger in Gaza, which has been shattered by Israel's offensive against the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas. Much of the densely populated territory has been laid waste and most of its 2.3 million population displaced.

The United Nations and other international groups have accused Israel of hindering aid distribution with bureaucratic obstacles and failing to ensure the security of food convoys, underlined by a disaster on February&nbsp;29, in which around 100 people were killed as they awaited an aid delivery.

Hamas, Gaza's dominant group, has said the main problem with aid distribution is Israeli targeting of aid workers. After the latest incident, it issued a statement saying the attack aimed to terrorise workers of international humanitarian agencies, deterring them from their missions.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-netanyahu-speaks-on-aid-workers-death-in-gaza-after-getting-discharged-in-excellent-condition-706934">‘Such accidents happen in wartime’: Netanyahu on death of aid workers in Gaza; released from hospital</a>

Andres, who started WCK in 2010 by sending cooks and food to Haiti after an earthquake, said he was heartbroken and grieving for the families and friends of those who died in the airstrike.

"The Israeli government needs to stop this indiscriminate killing. It needs to stop restricting humanitarian aid, stop killing civilians and aid workers, and stop using food as a weapon," he said.

Video obtained by Reuters showed a large hole in the roof of a four-wheel-drive WCK vehicle and its burned and torn interior, as well as paramedics moving bodies into a hospital and displaying the passports of three of those killed.

Conditions in Gaza remain extremely precarious with fighting going on in several areas on Tuesday and 71 people killed in Israeli strikes over the past 24 hours, according to Gaza health authorities.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday an Israeli airstrike had mistakenly killed seven people working for the aid charity World Central Kitchen in Gaza, and the US and other allies called for explanations amid widespread condemnation.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday an Israeli airstrike had mistakenly killed seven people working for the aid charity World Central Kitchen in Gaza, and the US and other allies called for explanations amid widespread condemnation. Israel's military voiced "sincere sorrow" over the incident, which ratcheted up international pressure for steps to ease the disastrous humanitarian situation in Gaza nearly six months into Israel's siege and invasion of the Palestinian enclave. The strike on the World Central Kitchen convoy killed citizens of Australia, Britain and Poland as well as Palestinians and a dual citizen of the United States and Canada. WATCH | Israel under pressure over aid workers' deaths WCK, which was founded by celebrity chef Jose Andres, said they had been travelling in two armoured cars emblazoned with the charity's logo and another vehicle. "Unfortunately in the past day there was a tragic event in which our forces unintentionally harmed non-combatants in the Gaza Strip," Netanyahu said in a video statement. "This happens in war. We are conducting a thorough inquiry and are in contact with the governments. We will do everything to prevent a recurrence." The Israeli military (IDF) pledged an investigation by "an independent, professional and expert body". Britain summoned Israel's ambassador in London to express its "unequivocal condemnation of the appalling killing" of the WCK workers, three of whom were British nationals, and called for an urgent explanation from Israel of how this had occurred. The United States, Israel's closest ally, said that there was no evidence Israel deliberately targeted the aid workers but that it was outraged by their deaths and Israel had an obligation to ensure aid workers in Gaza were not harmed. The White House said it expected a broad and impartial investigation to be carried out with appropriate accountability. "These people are heroes, they run into the fire, not away from it," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said of the seven aid workers, speaking to reporters in Paris. "We shouldn't have a situation where people who are simply trying to help their fellow human beings are themselves at grave risk." Also Read | Hezbollah warns ‘Israel will pay' for attack on Iran's Damascus consulate Israel has long denied accusations that it is hindering the distribution of urgently needed food aid in Gaza, which it has besieged in a war since October, saying the problem is caused by international aid groups' inability to get it to those in need. Despite coordinating movements with the Israeli military, the convoy was hit as it was leaving its Deir al-Balah warehouse after unloading more than 100 tons of humanitarian food aid brought to Gaza by sea, WCK said. "This is not only an attack against WCK, this is an attack on humanitarian organisations showing up in the most dire of situations where food is being used as a weapon of war," said Erin Gore, chief executive of World Central Kitchen. "This is unforgivable." In Cyprus, officials said seaborne aid for Gaza civilians was returning to the eastern Mediterranean island following the killing of the WCK workers, after the US-based charity said it would pause work in the enclave. The United Arab Emirates, which had been the main financier for WCK's aid efforts through the maritime corridor, said it was pausing such shipments from Cyprus pending further safety guarantees from Israel and a full investigation. INCREASING ISRAELI ISOLATION Australia, Britain and Poland, countries which have generally been friendly towards Israel, all demanded action to protect aid workers, underlining Netanyahu's increasing diplomatic isolation over the situation in Gaza. At least 196 humanitarian workers have been killed in Gaza since a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7 triggered Israel's assault on the Hamas-ruled enclave, and the deaths of the WCK staffers were "the inevitable result of the way this war is currently being conducted", UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday. Asked by reporters what the UN would say to the Israeli government over the airstrike, he said, "The message is: Let humanitarian workers do their job." Israel has been under rising international pressure to alleviate severe hunger in Gaza, which has been shattered by Israel's offensive against the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas. Much of the densely populated territory has been laid waste and most of its 2.3 million population displaced. The United Nations and other international groups have accused Israel of hindering aid distribution with bureaucratic obstacles and failing to ensure the security of food convoys, underlined by a disaster on February 29, in which around 100 people were killed as they awaited an aid delivery. Hamas, Gaza's dominant group, has said the main problem with aid distribution is Israeli targeting of aid workers. After the latest incident, it issued a statement saying the attack aimed to terrorise workers of international humanitarian agencies, deterring them from their missions. Also Read | ‘Such accidents happen in wartime’: Netanyahu on death of aid workers in Gaza; released from hospital Andres, who started WCK in 2010 by sending cooks and food to Haiti after an earthquake, said he was heartbroken and grieving for the families and friends of those who died in the airstrike. "The Israeli government needs to stop this indiscriminate killing. It needs to stop restricting humanitarian aid, stop killing civilians and aid workers, and stop using food as a weapon," he said. Video obtained by Reuters showed a large hole in the roof of a four-wheel-drive WCK vehicle and its burned and torn interior, as well as paramedics moving bodies into a hospital and displaying the passports of three of those killed. Conditions in Gaza remain extremely precarious with fighting going on in several areas on Tuesday and 71 people killed in Israeli strikes over the past 24 hours, according to Gaza health authorities.

Israel says airstrike unintentionally killed aid workers in Gaza, allies demand explanations

Japan on Tuesday said it will lift its suspension of funding to the UN&nbsp;Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) as the relief body works to regain trust after an allegation by Israel that some of its staff were involved in Oct. 7 attacks on Israel.

Tokyo and 15 other countries suspended around $450 million in funding earlier this year while the agency conducted an investigation into the allegation, throwing its operations in the war-torn Gaza Strip into turmoil.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-warns-israel-will-pay-for-attack-on-irans-damascus-consulate-706691">Hezbollah warns ‘Israel will pay' for attack on Iran's Damascus consulate</a>

Countries including Australia and Canada have since restored funding to UNRWA, the largest relief body operating in Gaza, which has been besieged by Israel since the attack.

Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, who met UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini in Tokyo last week, said the agency's role in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza was indispensable even as it works to improve governance and manage risks.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foreign-aid-workers-killed-after-food-delivery-in-israeli-strike-on-gaza-ngo-decries-attack-706700">Foreign aid workers killed after food delivery in Israeli strike on Gaza, NGO decries attack</a>

"In response to this, Japan will lift the moratorium on its financial contributions to UNRWA and provide assistance while ensuring and confirming the appropriateness of Japan's funds," she told reporters in parliament.

Approximately $35 million of originally planned funding was ready to be disbursed, she added.

Japan is the sixth biggest donor to the agency, according to the UNRWA's 2022 data.

Japan on Tuesday said it will lift its suspension of funding to the UN Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) as the relief body works to regain trust after an allegation by Israel that some of its staff were involved in Oct.

Japan on Tuesday said it will lift its suspension of funding to the UN Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) as the relief body works to regain trust after an allegation by Israel that some of its staff were involved in Oct. 7 attacks on Israel. Tokyo and 15 other countries suspended around $450 million in funding earlier this year while the agency conducted an investigation into the allegation, throwing its operations in the war-torn Gaza Strip into turmoil. Also read | Hezbollah warns ‘Israel will pay' for attack on Iran's Damascus consulate Countries including Australia and Canada have since restored funding to UNRWA, the largest relief body operating in Gaza, which has been besieged by Israel since the attack. Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, who met UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini in Tokyo last week, said the agency's role in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza was indispensable even as it works to improve governance and manage risks. Also read | Foreign aid workers killed after food delivery in Israeli strike on Gaza, NGO decries attack "In response to this, Japan will lift the moratorium on its financial contributions to UNRWA and provide assistance while ensuring and confirming the appropriateness of Japan's funds," she told reporters in parliament. Approximately $35 million of originally planned funding was ready to be disbursed, she added. Japan is the sixth biggest donor to the agency, according to the UNRWA's 2022 data.

Japan resumes funding to embattled Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been diagnosed with Hernia, in strong remarks on Sunday (Mar 31) made it clear that the pressure put by US is not the reason why Rafah operation has not yet been started. He also refuted claims that Ramadan is the reason why Israel has not entered the city of Rafah.&nbsp;He said that is no "hesitancy" about the operation. "It won’t take a lot of time. Nothing will stop us, not US pressure," he said.&nbsp;

It is worth noting that US President Joe Biden earlier cautioned Israel that its offensive in Rafah city in southern Gaza is a 'red line'. However, Biden at the time downplayed his remarks immediately and said, "it is a red line but I'm never going to leave Israel".

The remarks raised speculations over deteriorating relations between the leaders.&nbsp;

The tension between US and Israel was also visible when Israeli PM was asked about the cancellation of delegation to Washington.&nbsp;Netanyahu said, “I told them, ‘Don’t do it. It will send an extremely grave message to Hamas: They don’t have to release a single hostage, and they can get a ceasefire.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fukushima-disaster-japan-says-experts-met-in-china-to-ease-concerns-over-radioactive-water-706329">Fukushima disaster: Japan says experts met in China to dispel concerns over radioactive water</a>

This came after US allowed UNSC resolution on Gaza ceasefire to pass by abstaining and not exercising its veto.&nbsp;“We will find the way to dialogue on this issue. But I thought it was important to send the message on that very day to the entire international community, and also to Hamas. And that was an important message that I stand behind," Netanyahu said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/200-tonne-chunk-of-collapsed-baltimore-bridge-lifted-out-by-workers-706319">200-tonne chunk of collapsed Baltimore bridge lifted out by workers</a>

Netanyahu held a press conference on Sunday wherein he said the war cabinet has approved 'operational plans' for Rafah. Bibi also asserted that the Israeli defence forces are all geared up to operate in Rafah in a bid to evacuate the civilians as well as to support the distribution of humanitarian aid.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-local-elections-voting-marred-by-violent-incidents-fierce-contest-for-istabul-ankara-706336">Turkey local elections: Voting marred by violent incidents; fierce contest for Istabul, Ankara</a>

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“It’s the right thing to do operationally and internationally,” he reportedly said while adding, "Whoever says that I am not doing everything to return our abductees is wrong and misleading."&nbsp;Meanwhile, while responding to those who are calling for elections, Netanyahu said, "They will silence Israel. The first to bless this&nbsp;will&nbsp;be&nbsp;Hamas". 
 
He further added that the whole world was ganging up against&nbsp;Israel and blamed it on a combination of ignorance and antisemitism.

“What has happened in the past few months was that the terrible massacre&nbsp;of October 7 was quickly forgotten, and the whole world is ganging up on us. And there are people here and abroad who say maybe there’s something to this;&nbsp;maybe we’re really not ok,” the Israeli PM added.

Netanyahu, during the presser before his scheduled surgery at 9 pm local time, said that during his talks with the US President Joe Biden he thanked him for the solidarity, “but I did not appreciate the decision in the Security Council. I thought it was a deplorable decision, since for the first time it disconnected the ceasefire…and the release of hostages. That’s why I thought I had to send a clear message on this issue.”

Netanyahu says he told Biden that “If we have to, we will fight with our fingernails.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been diagnosed with Hernia, in strong remarks on Sunday (Mar 31) made it clear that the pressure put by US is not the reason why Rafah operation has not yet been started.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been diagnosed with Hernia, in strong remarks on Sunday (Mar 31) made it clear that the pressure put by US is not the reason why Rafah operation has not yet been started. He also refuted claims that Ramadan is the reason why Israel has not entered the city of Rafah. He said that is no "hesitancy" about the operation. "It won’t take a lot of time. Nothing will stop us, not US pressure," he said. It is worth noting that US President Joe Biden earlier cautioned Israel that its offensive in Rafah city in southern Gaza is a 'red line'. However, Biden at the time downplayed his remarks immediately and said, "it is a red line but I'm never going to leave Israel". The remarks raised speculations over deteriorating relations between the leaders. The tension between US and Israel was also visible when Israeli PM was asked about the cancellation of delegation to Washington. Netanyahu said, “I told them, ‘Don’t do it. It will send an extremely grave message to Hamas: They don’t have to release a single hostage, and they can get a ceasefire.” Also Read | Fukushima disaster: Japan says experts met in China to dispel concerns over radioactive water This came after US allowed UNSC resolution on Gaza ceasefire to pass by abstaining and not exercising its veto. “We will find the way to dialogue on this issue. But I thought it was important to send the message on that very day to the entire international community, and also to Hamas. And that was an important message that I stand behind," Netanyahu said. Also Read | 200-tonne chunk of collapsed Baltimore bridge lifted out by workers Netanyahu held a press conference on Sunday wherein he said the war cabinet has approved 'operational plans' for Rafah. Bibi also asserted that the Israeli defence forces are all geared up to operate in Rafah in a bid to evacuate the civilians as well as to support the distribution of humanitarian aid. Watch | Turkey local elections: Voting marred by violent incidents; fierce contest for Istabul, Ankara × “It’s the right thing to do operationally and internationally,” he reportedly said while adding, "Whoever says that I am not doing everything to return our abductees is wrong and misleading." Meanwhile, while responding to those who are calling for elections, Netanyahu said, "They will silence Israel. The first to bless this will be Hamas". He further added that the whole world was ganging up against Israel and blamed it on a combination of ignorance and antisemitism. “What has happened in the past few months was that the terrible massacre of October 7 was quickly forgotten, and the whole world is ganging up on us. And there are people here and abroad who say maybe there’s something to this; maybe we’re really not ok,” the Israeli PM added. Netanyahu, during the presser before his scheduled surgery at 9 pm local time, said that during his talks with the US President Joe Biden he thanked him for the solidarity, “but I did not appreciate the decision in the Security Council. I thought it was a deplorable decision, since for the first time it disconnected the ceasefire…and the release of hostages. That’s why I thought I had to send a clear message on this issue.” Netanyahu says he told Biden that “If we have to, we will fight with our fingernails.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘US pressure will not stop us,’ says Netanyahu as Israel approves ‘operational plans’ for action in Rafah

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Demonstrators join families of hostages in cities across country and vow to persist until he is ousted as PM. Voting ends in Turkey's high-stakes elections, three killed in poll-related violence. Indian PM Modi speaks on electoral bond row. US welcomes formation of new Palestinian autonomy government. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hamas war: Thousands demand Netanyahu government's resignation

Tens of thousands of Pro-Palestinian protesters marched in London on Saturday (March 30) demanding an end to the war in Gaza.

Footage shows police questioning two female protesters from the crowd, one of which was carrying a placard reading, “(Rishi) Sunak + (Keir) Starmer support genocide, remember that”.

When asked by a journalist why she was being questioned by the police, the woman replied, "They (the police) can't tell me. Apparently, it's a public order offence under Section 5." Footage shows her being taken by police into a police van.

At least 32,705 Palestinians have been killed and 75,190 injured in Israel's military offensive on Gaza since Oct. 7, the Gaza health ministry said on Saturday.

A three-ship convoy left a port in Cyprus on Saturday (March 30) to deliver essential aid supplies for Palestinians in Gaza amid raging war between Israel and Hamas. The convoy left with 400 tonnes of food and other supplies amid soaring concerns about hunger and potential famine in the blockaded Palestinians enclave.&nbsp;

According to a statement by the World Central Kitchen, the ships are carrying ready-to-eat items like rice, pasta, flour, legumes, canned vegetables and proteins that were enough to prepare more than 1 million meals, Associated Press reported.&nbsp;

Tens of thousands of Pro-Palestinian protesters marched in London on Saturday (March 30) demanding an end to the war in Gaza. Footage shows police questioning two female protesters from the crowd, one of which was carrying a placard reading, “(Rishi) Sunak + (Keir) Starmer support genocide, remember that”.

Tens of thousands of Pro-Palestinian protesters marched in London on Saturday (March 30) demanding an end to the war in Gaza. Footage shows police questioning two female protesters from the crowd, one of which was carrying a placard reading, “(Rishi) Sunak + (Keir) Starmer support genocide, remember that”. When asked by a journalist why she was being questioned by the police, the woman replied, "They (the police) can't tell me. Apparently, it's a public order offence under Section 5." Footage shows her being taken by police into a police van. At least 32,705 Palestinians have been killed and 75,190 injured in Israel's military offensive on Gaza since Oct. 7, the Gaza health ministry said on Saturday. A three-ship convoy left a port in Cyprus on Saturday (March 30) to deliver essential aid supplies for Palestinians in Gaza amid raging war between Israel and Hamas. The convoy left with 400 tonnes of food and other supplies amid soaring concerns about hunger and potential famine in the blockaded Palestinians enclave. According to a statement by the World Central Kitchen, the ships are carrying ready-to-eat items like rice, pasta, flour, legumes, canned vegetables and proteins that were enough to prepare more than 1 million meals, Associated Press reported.

Thousands march in London to demand ceasefire in Gaza

A top military general in the United States (US) said on Thursday (Mar 28) that Israel did not receive every weapon it had asked for, in part because some of it could affect the American military's readiness and there were capacity limitations. Addressing an event hosted by the Defense Writers Group, General Charles Q. Brown, the chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, said, "Although we've been supporting them with capability, they've not received everything they've asked for."

"Some of that is because they've asked for stuff that we either can't provide or not willing to provide, not right now," General Brown added. The US gives $3.8 billion in annual military assistance to Israel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-soldiers-kill-two-unarmed-palestinians-in-gaza-one-of-them-was-holding-a-white-flag-report-705414">Israeli soldiers kill two unarmed Palestinians in Gaza. One of them was holding a white flag: Report</a>

General Brown's remarks comes at a time&nbsp;Israel has been at war with Hamas since early October last year. On Thursday, a spokesperson for Brown said in a statement that his remarks were about a standard practice before providing military aid to any of Washington's allies and partners.&nbsp;

"We assess US stockpiles and any possible impact on our readiness to determine our ability to provide the requested aid. There is no change in US policy. The United States continues to provide security assistance to our ally Israel as they defend themselves from Hamas," the spokesperson added.&nbsp;

Also watch | The West Asia Post:&nbsp;Is Benjamin Netanyahu deliberately alienating Israel?

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Also, a day after Brown's remarks, two sources told the news agency Reuters that the US recently authorised the transfer of billions of dollars worth of bombs and fighter jets to Israel.&nbsp;

This came hours after President Joe Biden acknowledged "the pain being felt" by many Arab Americans over the war in Gaza and American support for Israel and its military offensive.

Since the conflict started, the US has been rushing air defences and munitions to Israel and this assistance has been criticised by some Democrats and Arab American groups.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A top military general in the United States (US) said on Thursday (Mar 28) that Israel did not receive every weapon it had asked for, in part because some of it could affect the American military's readiness and there were capacity limitations.

A top military general in the United States (US) said on Thursday (Mar 28) that Israel did not receive every weapon it had asked for, in part because some of it could affect the American military's readiness and there were capacity limitations. Addressing an event hosted by the Defense Writers Group, General Charles Q. Brown, the chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, said, "Although we've been supporting them with capability, they've not received everything they've asked for." "Some of that is because they've asked for stuff that we either can't provide or not willing to provide, not right now," General Brown added. The US gives $3.8 billion in annual military assistance to Israel. Also read | Israeli soldiers kill two unarmed Palestinians in Gaza. One of them was holding a white flag: Report General Brown's remarks comes at a time Israel has been at war with Hamas since early October last year. On Thursday, a spokesperson for Brown said in a statement that his remarks were about a standard practice before providing military aid to any of Washington's allies and partners. "We assess US stockpiles and any possible impact on our readiness to determine our ability to provide the requested aid. There is no change in US policy. The United States continues to provide security assistance to our ally Israel as they defend themselves from Hamas," the spokesperson added. Also watch | The West Asia Post: Is Benjamin Netanyahu deliberately alienating Israel? × Also, a day after Brown's remarks, two sources told the news agency Reuters that the US recently authorised the transfer of billions of dollars worth of bombs and fighter jets to Israel. This came hours after President Joe Biden acknowledged "the pain being felt" by many Arab Americans over the war in Gaza and American support for Israel and its military offensive. Since the conflict started, the US has been rushing air defences and munitions to Israel and this assistance has been criticised by some Democrats and Arab American groups. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel hasn't received every weapon it asked for: Top US general

The Institute of Business Administration better know as IBA Karachi saw unprecedented scenes on Wednesday (March 27) when students walked out on their potential recruiter, a global brand name and multinational company.

Students say that they sent in emails to their administration, against hosting a recruitment drive by the company, on grounds of the brand's image of being complicit to the ongoing situation in Gaza; a matter which remains part of a wider boycott movement.

Since&nbsp;this is an annual event, where representatives from Coca-Cola Pakistan come in and do their pitch and scout out who they believe are the most suitable fresh graduates for their business, the event went ahead as was planned.

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IBA Karachi students, walking out from Coca-Cola recruitment drive is a Big deal if one puts it in perspective -- Its a recruitment drive so I guess students belong to final year, mostly from middle class, being crushed under hyper inflation and feeling the heat of expectations… <a href="https://t.co/1pzaevM2py">pic.twitter.com/1pzaevM2py</a>
— Anas Mallick (@AnasMallick) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnasMallick/status/1773977868445663652?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After the introduction at the main auditorium of the IBA by representatives, where the event recruiters did ask for a minute long silence in respect of the lives lost in Gaza, what followed was beyond expectations. It is informed more than 90 per cent of the students present in the auditorium, got up and left, after showing banners against war in Gaza, leaving the recruiters rather embarrassed, to say the least.

The video of the students leaving and boycotting the drive has been widely shared on social networking platforms with alumni from the institute being all at praise.

<h2>Why and what makes this important?</h2>

Given that it's a recruitment drive, students belong to graduating year, aspire to work in global brands and multinational companies after graduating from what is considered one of the most prestigious business schools of the country. Apart from inflationary economic pressures, the opportunity to start their practical lives at an established multinational would have been a feather in their cap, a matter their socio-economic circle would enquire on their future.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/big-brands-like-coca-cola-found-guilty-of-greenwashing-what-is-this-and-why-is-it-problematic-493682">Big brands like Coca Cola found guilty of 'greenwashing', what is this and why is it problematic?</a>

Coca-Cola is a big brand that can decorate any CV and it needs quite of a commitment to the cause to turn your back on their recruiters. One may not get this shot again in their lifetime.

Following the boycott at the IBA in Karachi, it is reported that the Coca-Cola recruitment drive scheduled in at least two more universities was called off, one of which was about two hours before the session was scheduled to be held. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Institute of Business Administration better know as IBA Karachi saw unprecedented scenes on Wednesday (March 27) when students walked out on their potential recruiter, a global brand name and multinational company.

The Institute of Business Administration better know as IBA Karachi saw unprecedented scenes on Wednesday (March 27) when students walked out on their potential recruiter, a global brand name and multinational company. Students say that they sent in emails to their administration, against hosting a recruitment drive by the company, on grounds of the brand's image of being complicit to the ongoing situation in Gaza; a matter which remains part of a wider boycott movement. Since this is an annual event, where representatives from Coca-Cola Pakistan come in and do their pitch and scout out who they believe are the most suitable fresh graduates for their business, the event went ahead as was planned. IBA Karachi students, walking out from Coca-Cola recruitment drive is a Big deal if one puts it in perspective -- Its a recruitment drive so I guess students belong to final year, mostly from middle class, being crushed under hyper inflation and feeling the heat of expectations… pic.twitter.com/1pzaevM2py — Anas Mallick (@AnasMallick) March 30, 2024 × After the introduction at the main auditorium of the IBA by representatives, where the event recruiters did ask for a minute long silence in respect of the lives lost in Gaza, what followed was beyond expectations. It is informed more than 90 per cent of the students present in the auditorium, got up and left, after showing banners against war in Gaza, leaving the recruiters rather embarrassed, to say the least. The video of the students leaving and boycotting the drive has been widely shared on social networking platforms with alumni from the institute being all at praise. Why and what makes this important? Given that it's a recruitment drive, students belong to graduating year, aspire to work in global brands and multinational companies after graduating from what is considered one of the most prestigious business schools of the country. Apart from inflationary economic pressures, the opportunity to start their practical lives at an established multinational would have been a feather in their cap, a matter their socio-economic circle would enquire on their future. Also read | Big brands like Coca Cola found guilty of 'greenwashing', what is this and why is it problematic? Coca-Cola is a big brand that can decorate any CV and it needs quite of a commitment to the cause to turn your back on their recruiters. One may not get this shot again in their lifetime. Following the boycott at the IBA in Karachi, it is reported that the Coca-Cola recruitment drive scheduled in at least two more universities was called off, one of which was about two hours before the session was scheduled to be held. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: American beverage brand snubbed by Pakistani students during recruitment drive

Israel's Supreme Court on Thursday (Mar 28) ordered the country's government to stop funding religious schools whose students don't follow Israel's mandatory military service. This comes as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asked the top court to defer by 30 days a deadline that gave his government until March 31 to come up with a new military conscription plan.&nbsp;

The plan is intended to address mainstream anger at exemptions granted to ultra-Orthodox Jews.

The favour of the ultra-Orthodox population — approximately 13 per cent of Israel's population — is important for Netanyahu. Two ultra-Orthodox parties have been coalition partners in successive Netanyahu-led governments, and the apex court's order can pose a serious threat to the PM's governing coalition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-senior-minister-gantz-threatens-resignation-over-haredi-military-service-bill-703949">Israel cabinet minister Gantz threatens to quit if bill exempts ultra-Orthodox Jews from military service</a>

<h2>The conscription controversy</h2>

Israeli citizens are by law required to serve in the military and most Jewish men&nbsp;serve nearly three years in the military, followed by years of reserve duty, the women serve two mandatory years. &nbsp;

However, some citizens are exempt from this mandatory service. This includes ultra-Orthodox Jews (13 per cent of Israel's population) and the Arab minority (21 per cent of Israel's population).

While, as per Reuters, military conscriptions of ultra-Orthodox Haredi Jews is a decades-old controversy, it has become especially sensitive these days.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-court-of-justice-orders-israel-to-address-famine-in-gaza-ensure-unhindered-supply-of-food-705345">International Court of Justice orders Israel to address famine in Gaza, ensure unhindered supply of food</a>

Due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, the nation's armed forces, made up mostly of teenaged conscripts and older civilians mobilised for reserve duty, have been waging a nearly six-month-old war in the Gaza Strip.

Reuters reports that as per a senior Israeli official's estimates, only about five per cent of the nation's population was taking part in the Gaza war.&nbsp;

On Monday, a government-issued stay on mandatory conscription of the ultra-Orthodox will expire.

<h2>Ultra-Orthodox population reacts to Supreme Court order</h2>

Israel's ultra-Orthodox population has been demanding that their constituents be permitted to study in seminaries instead of serving in the military.&nbsp;

The two ultra-Orthodox parties — United Torah Judaism and Shas — in Netanyahu's religious-nationalist coalition, have strongly criticised the ruling, referring to it as a "mark of Cain".&nbsp;As per Reuters, they have pledged to fight for what they say is their constituents' "right" to remain in seminaries. However, as of now, they have not explicitly threatened to walk out of the government.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's Supreme Court on Thursday (Mar 28) ordered the country's government to stop funding religious schools whose students don't follow Israel's mandatory military service.

Israel's Supreme Court on Thursday (Mar 28) ordered the country's government to stop funding religious schools whose students don't follow Israel's mandatory military service. This comes as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asked the top court to defer by 30 days a deadline that gave his government until March 31 to come up with a new military conscription plan. The plan is intended to address mainstream anger at exemptions granted to ultra-Orthodox Jews. The favour of the ultra-Orthodox population — approximately 13 per cent of Israel's population — is important for Netanyahu. Two ultra-Orthodox parties have been coalition partners in successive Netanyahu-led governments, and the apex court's order can pose a serious threat to the PM's governing coalition. Also read | Israel cabinet minister Gantz threatens to quit if bill exempts ultra-Orthodox Jews from military service The conscription controversy Israeli citizens are by law required to serve in the military and most Jewish men serve nearly three years in the military, followed by years of reserve duty, the women serve two mandatory years. However, some citizens are exempt from this mandatory service. This includes ultra-Orthodox Jews (13 per cent of Israel's population) and the Arab minority (21 per cent of Israel's population). While, as per Reuters, military conscriptions of ultra-Orthodox Haredi Jews is a decades-old controversy, it has become especially sensitive these days. Also read | International Court of Justice orders Israel to address famine in Gaza, ensure unhindered supply of food Due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, the nation's armed forces, made up mostly of teenaged conscripts and older civilians mobilised for reserve duty, have been waging a nearly six-month-old war in the Gaza Strip. Reuters reports that as per a senior Israeli official's estimates, only about five per cent of the nation's population was taking part in the Gaza war. On Monday, a government-issued stay on mandatory conscription of the ultra-Orthodox will expire. Ultra-Orthodox population reacts to Supreme Court order Israel's ultra-Orthodox population has been demanding that their constituents be permitted to study in seminaries instead of serving in the military. The two ultra-Orthodox parties — United Torah Judaism and Shas — in Netanyahu's religious-nationalist coalition, have strongly criticised the ruling, referring to it as a "mark of Cain". As per Reuters, they have pledged to fight for what they say is their constituents' "right" to remain in seminaries. However, as of now, they have not explicitly threatened to walk out of the government. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel Supreme Court orders Netanyahu govt to halt funding for religious schools defying conscription

Judges at the United Nations’ top court, on Thursday (Mar 28) unanimously ordered Israel to take all the necessary and effective measures to ensure that basic food supplies enter Gaza without any delays amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Famine is setting in’</h2>

In their order, the judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) noted that Gazans are facing worsening conditions of life.&nbsp;

“The court observes that Palestinians in Gaza are no longer facing only a risk of famine…but that famine is setting in,” said the judges.

The court has asked Israel to take “all necessary and effective measures to ensure, without delay…the unhindered provision at scale by all concerned of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to Palestinians throughout Gaza”.

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel war: IDF conducts fresh strikes in Lebanon

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The recent measures were requested by South Africa as part of its ongoing case which accuses Israel of state-led genocide in Gaza.&nbsp;

The UN top court, in its Thursday order, reaffirmed the measures first outlined in January that Israel must take action to ensure unhindered delivery of food, water, electricity, fuel, hygiene and sanitation requirements, as well as medical supplies and medical care to Palestinians across Gaza.

Israel could do so “by increasing the capacity and number of land crossing points and maintaining them open for as long as necessary,” the judges added.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-downs-more-than-25-drones-in-latest-overnight-russian-strikes-705184">Ukraine claims it downed 26 drones in latest Russian strikes</a>

The court has also ordered Israel to submit a report next month detailing how they have carried out its order.&nbsp;

<h2>‘No alternative’ to aid delivery by land</h2>

The ruling came after the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reiterated its call for “swift, safe and unimpeded humanitarian passage (of aid) through all crossings,” in a post on X. It added, “Time is of the essence.”

It also noted that there is “no alternative to large-scale deliveries of aid by land in Gaza.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-authority-announces-new-cabinet-amid-calls-for-reform-705265">Palestinian Authority PM announces new cabinet, calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza</a>

This comes as several countries have been air-dropping aid into Gaza and using ships to deliver it to the enclave’s Mediterranean coast.&nbsp;

However, the UN and other organisations working in Gaza have called these methods expensive and inefficient, asking Israel to open all land crossings in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Judges at the United Nations’ top court, on Thursday (Mar 28) unanimously ordered Israel to take all the necessary and effective measures to ensure that basic food supplies enter Gaza without any delays amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Judges at the United Nations’ top court, on Thursday (Mar 28) unanimously ordered Israel to take all the necessary and effective measures to ensure that basic food supplies enter Gaza without any delays amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. ‘Famine is setting in’ In their order, the judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) noted that Gazans are facing worsening conditions of life. “The court observes that Palestinians in Gaza are no longer facing only a risk of famine…but that famine is setting in,” said the judges. The court has asked Israel to take “all necessary and effective measures to ensure, without delay…the unhindered provision at scale by all concerned of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to Palestinians throughout Gaza”. WATCH | Israel war: IDF conducts fresh strikes in Lebanon The recent measures were requested by South Africa as part of its ongoing case which accuses Israel of state-led genocide in Gaza. The UN top court, in its Thursday order, reaffirmed the measures first outlined in January that Israel must take action to ensure unhindered delivery of food, water, electricity, fuel, hygiene and sanitation requirements, as well as medical supplies and medical care to Palestinians across Gaza. Israel could do so “by increasing the capacity and number of land crossing points and maintaining them open for as long as necessary,” the judges added. Also Read | Ukraine claims it downed 26 drones in latest Russian strikes The court has also ordered Israel to submit a report next month detailing how they have carried out its order. ‘No alternative’ to aid delivery by land The ruling came after the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reiterated its call for “swift, safe and unimpeded humanitarian passage (of aid) through all crossings,” in a post on X. It added, “Time is of the essence.” It also noted that there is “no alternative to large-scale deliveries of aid by land in Gaza.” Also Read | Palestinian Authority PM announces new cabinet, calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza This comes as several countries have been air-dropping aid into Gaza and using ships to deliver it to the enclave’s Mediterranean coast. However, the UN and other organisations working in Gaza have called these methods expensive and inefficient, asking Israel to open all land crossings in the Palestinian enclave. (With inputs from agencies)

International Court of Justice orders Israel to address famine in Gaza, ensure unhindered supply of food

Food filled trucks, the main lifeline for Gazans, are at the heart of the escalating humanitarian crisis gripping the enclave as the Global Authority on Food Security has warned that famine is imminent. Watch in for more details!

Israel War | Famine imminent in North Gaza: World Food Programme

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. Israeli soldiers shot dead two Palestinian men in Gaza with one of them waving what appeared to be a white flag. The video of this incident obtained by Al Jazeera showed that the two men were buried in sand and rubbish by an Israeli army bulldozer. A report by Al Jazeera said that the two men were near the Nabulsi Roundabout, southwest of Gaza City. They were trying to return to their homes in the north of Gaza via the al-Rashid street. This is where they met the Israeli soldiers. The video shows one of the two Palestinian men approaching the troops, waving, before he disappears from view behind a building. Also read | International Court of Justice orders Israel to address famine in Gaza, ensure unhindered supply of food The second man, meanwhile, turned around and appeared to raise a piece of white fabric. He was seen being pursued by an armoured vehicle. The soldiers opened fire on him, and the first man was also shot dead. The army bulldozer was used to bury the bodies. The condemnation American civil rights and advocacy group Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) called for a United Nations (UN) probe into these killings. The CAIR said that Israel appeared to kill Palestinians on a whim and then treat their bodies like trash. Hamas, which has been at war with Israel since early October last year, condemned the killings and called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to take necessary measures to hold Israel accountable. Also watch | Israel accused of state-led genocide in Gaza × A spokesperson for the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) told Al Jazeera that Israel was getting away with these crimes due to the silence of the international community. 'Video is edited' The Israeli army, meanwhile, told the network that the video was edited and did not show the context of the incident. The army said that a thorough and professional examination was needed to assess the details of the incident. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli soldiers kill two unarmed Palestinians in Gaza. One of them was holding a white flag: Report