<p>Tragedy struck off the coast of Gaza on Tuesday, as 12&nbsp;people drowned while attempting to reach aid dropped by a plane on a beach. Palestinian health authorities reported the incident, highlighting the desperate situation faced by many amid fears of famine, which have intensified nearly six months into Israel's military campaign.</p>

<h2><strong>Video footage shows the desperation of Gazans</strong></h2>

<p>As per Reuters, video footage obtained by it bears witness to the chaotic scene as crowds rushed towards crates with parachutes floating down to Beit Lahia beach in north Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The footage, which because of its sensitive nature has not been added to this report, shows people standing in deep water and bodies being pulled onto the sand.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-19-palestinians-killed-by-idf-while-waiting-for-aid-israel-denies-703632">Gaza war: 19 Palestinians ‘killed by IDF’ while waiting for aid; Israel denies claims</a></strong></p>

<p>It also revealed that the aid was marked with Arabic writing over an American flag, indicating its origin.</p>

<h2><strong>'Why are they doing this to us?' asks one Gazan</strong></h2>

<p>As per Reuters, tragically, one man lost his life while attempting to procure food for his children. In the video, another man could be seen trying to revive him when a voice in the background says, "It's over".</p>

<p>"He swam to get food for his children and he was martyred," revealed a man standing on the beach.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-to-vote-on-new-gaza-ceasefire-draft-as-un-chief-indicates-growing-international-consensus-704087">UNSC passes resolution demanding ‘immediate ceasefire’ in Gaza during Ramadan; US abstains from voting</a></strong></p>

<p>"They should deliver aid through the (overland) crossings. Why are they doing this to us?" he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in Washington, the Pentagon revealed that three of the 18 bundles of aid airdropped into Gaza on Monday experienced parachute malfunctions and fell into the water. However, they failed to confirm whether anyone was killed in the attempt to reach the aid.</p>

<p>The airdrop, intended to alleviate the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, is the latest in a series of incidents involving deaths during aid delivery in the densely populated enclave. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gaza's hungry civilians forced to eat wild plant with no aid relief in sight</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gazas-hungry-civilians-forced-to-eat-wild-plant-with-no-aid-relief-in-sight-704442/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The incident has sparked questions about the effectiveness and safety of aid delivery methods, with aid agencies calling for increased supplies to enter Gaza through land crossings.</p>

<p>UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged Israel to give an "ironclad commitment" for unfettered aid access to Gaza, describing the current situation as a "moral outrage".&nbsp;However, Israel maintains that it imposes no limits on humanitarian aid entering Gaza and blames inefficiencies in distribution on UN agencies.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Tragedy struck off the coast of Gaza on Tuesday, as 12 people drowned while attempting to reach aid dropped by a plane on a beach. Palestinian health authorities reported the incident, highlighting the desperate situation faced by many amid fears of famine, which have intensified nearly six months into Israel's military campaign.

Tragedy struck off the coast of Gaza on Tuesday, as 12 people drowned while attempting to reach aid dropped by a plane on a beach. Palestinian health authorities reported the incident, highlighting the desperate situation faced by many amid fears of famine, which have intensified nearly six months into Israel's military campaign. Video footage shows the desperation of Gazans As per Reuters, video footage obtained by it bears witness to the chaotic scene as crowds rushed towards crates with parachutes floating down to Beit Lahia beach in north Gaza. The footage, which because of its sensitive nature has not been added to this report, shows people standing in deep water and bodies being pulled onto the sand. Also read | Gaza war: 19 Palestinians ‘killed by IDF’ while waiting for aid; Israel denies claims It also revealed that the aid was marked with Arabic writing over an American flag, indicating its origin. 'Why are they doing this to us?' asks one Gazan As per Reuters, tragically, one man lost his life while attempting to procure food for his children. In the video, another man could be seen trying to revive him when a voice in the background says, "It's over". "He swam to get food for his children and he was martyred," revealed a man standing on the beach. Also read | UNSC passes resolution demanding ‘immediate ceasefire’ in Gaza during Ramadan; US abstains from voting "They should deliver aid through the (overland) crossings. Why are they doing this to us?" he added. Meanwhile, in Washington, the Pentagon revealed that three of the 18 bundles of aid airdropped into Gaza on Monday experienced parachute malfunctions and fell into the water. However, they failed to confirm whether anyone was killed in the attempt to reach the aid. The airdrop, intended to alleviate the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, is the latest in a series of incidents involving deaths during aid delivery in the densely populated enclave. Watch | Gaza's hungry civilians forced to eat wild plant with no aid relief in sight The incident has sparked questions about the effectiveness and safety of aid delivery methods, with aid agencies calling for increased supplies to enter Gaza through land crossings. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged Israel to give an "ironclad commitment" for unfettered aid access to Gaza, describing the current situation as a "moral outrage". However, Israel maintains that it imposes no limits on humanitarian aid entering Gaza and blames inefficiencies in distribution on UN agencies. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza humanitarian crisis deepens, 12 drown trying to reach US aid airdropped onto a beach

The Gaza authorities claimed on Tuesday that three Palestinians drowned while attempting to retrieve airdropped aid that had fallen into the Mediterranean, the latest incident in which an airdrop appears to have resulted in death.

Gaza Crisis: Twelve people drown trying to reach aid dropped by plane | Israel-Hamas war

<p>At least seven people were killed on Wednesday (Mar 27) after an Israeli airstrike on a paramedics centre linked to the Lebanon-based Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah, reported the Associated Press citing officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, one person in northern Israel was killed after the strike prompted Hezbollah to fire dozens of rockets at the Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel war: IDF conducts fresh strikes in Lebanon</strong></p>

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<p>The Israeli strike on the Lebanese village of Hebbariye came a day after the airstrikes and rocket attacks between Israel’s military and Hezbollah along the Lebanon-Israel border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The exchange of fire took place after a brief lull in fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group along the border, raising concerns about further escalation along the frontier that has been active for the past five months amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Israel and Lebanon have said that they do not want an all-out war and are open to diplomatic process but the number of strikes has increased this week.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What we know about the strikes and rocket attacks</strong></h2>

<p>Israeli emergency services, on Wednesday, said that the rocket attack by Hezbollah killed a factory worker in Kiryat Shmona and another person was lightly injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/raw-sewage-spills-into-england-rivers-and-seas-doubles-in-2023-704845">Raw sewage spills into England rivers and seas doubles in 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>The paramedics and the Magen David Adom (MDA) said that a 25-year-old man was pulled from the wreckage of the factory. He had sustained severe wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rocket attack on Israel was reportedly in retaliation for the Israeli strike on Hebbariyeh, which news agencies citing sources said killed at least seven people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The airstrike after midnight on Tuesday (Mar 26) hit an office of the Islamic Emergency and Relief Corps, said the Lebanese Ambulance Association.</p>

<p>The Lebanese paramedics association released the names of seven volunteers who were killed in the strike and called it a “flagrant violation of humanitarian work,” reported AP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was reportedly one of the deadliest single attacks since violence erupted along the border. Since the beginning of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah has also launched attacks against Israel.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protecting-palestinians-a-moral-imperative-pentagon-chief-tells-israeli-counterpart-704762">Protecting Palestinians a moral imperative, Pentagon chief tells Israeli Defence Minister Gallant</a></strong></p>

<p>Hebbariye resident Ali Noureddine told the AP that those killed were pulled out from the rubble before sunrise on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hezbollah, earlier on Wednesday, condemned the strikes and hours later retaliated by firing dozens of rockets Wednesday morning on Kiryat Shmona and a military base there.</p>

<p>According to the Israeli military, around 30 rockets were launched from Lebanon toward northern Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli strikes on Tuesday near two towns in northeast Lebanon killed three Hezbollah militants, said the militant group. Israel has since confirmed the strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


At least seven people were killed on Wednesday (Mar 27) after an Israeli airstrike on a paramedics centre linked to the Lebanon-based Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah, reported the Associated Press citing officials.

At least seven people were killed on Wednesday (Mar 27) after an Israeli airstrike on a paramedics centre linked to the Lebanon-based Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah, reported the Associated Press citing officials. Meanwhile, one person in northern Israel was killed after the strike prompted Hezbollah to fire dozens of rockets at the Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona. WATCH | Israel war: IDF conducts fresh strikes in Lebanon The Israeli strike on the Lebanese village of Hebbariye came a day after the airstrikes and rocket attacks between Israel’s military and Hezbollah along the Lebanon-Israel border. The exchange of fire took place after a brief lull in fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group along the border, raising concerns about further escalation along the frontier that has been active for the past five months amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Both Israel and Lebanon have said that they do not want an all-out war and are open to diplomatic process but the number of strikes has increased this week. What we know about the strikes and rocket attacks Israeli emergency services, on Wednesday, said that the rocket attack by Hezbollah killed a factory worker in Kiryat Shmona and another person was lightly injured. Also Read | Raw sewage spills into England rivers and seas doubles in 2023 The paramedics and the Magen David Adom (MDA) said that a 25-year-old man was pulled from the wreckage of the factory. He had sustained severe wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene. The rocket attack on Israel was reportedly in retaliation for the Israeli strike on Hebbariyeh, which news agencies citing sources said killed at least seven people. The airstrike after midnight on Tuesday (Mar 26) hit an office of the Islamic Emergency and Relief Corps, said the Lebanese Ambulance Association. The Lebanese paramedics association released the names of seven volunteers who were killed in the strike and called it a “flagrant violation of humanitarian work,” reported AP. It was reportedly one of the deadliest single attacks since violence erupted along the border. Since the beginning of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah has also launched attacks against Israel. Also Read | Protecting Palestinians a moral imperative, Pentagon chief tells Israeli Defence Minister Gallant Hebbariye resident Ali Noureddine told the AP that those killed were pulled out from the rubble before sunrise on Wednesday. Hezbollah, earlier on Wednesday, condemned the strikes and hours later retaliated by firing dozens of rockets Wednesday morning on Kiryat Shmona and a military base there. According to the Israeli military, around 30 rockets were launched from Lebanon toward northern Israel. Israeli strikes on Tuesday near two towns in northeast Lebanon killed three Hezbollah militants, said the militant group. Israel has since confirmed the strikes. (With inputs from agencies)

At least eight killed in Israel and Hezbollah counterstrikes across Lebanon border

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke with his Belgian counterpart Alexander De Croo and agreed to enhance cooperation and support for early restoration of peace and security in West Asia and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. During the telephone call, Modi also congratulated De Croo on the successful hosting of the First Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels last week.</p>

<p>After the conversation, Modi tweeted, "Spoke to Belgium PM Alexander Decroo. Congratulated him on the success of the First Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels. Exchanged views on strengthening bilateral ties; advancing India-EU Partnership under Belgian Presidency; and cooperation on regional and global issues."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Spoke to Belgium PM <a href="https://twitter.com/alexanderdecroo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@alexanderdecroo</a>. Congratulated him on the success of the First Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels. Exchanged views on strengthening bilateral ties; advancing India-EU Partnership under Belgian Presidency; and cooperation on regional and global issues.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1772587808495943956?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>De Croo also put out a tweet saying, "Called prime minister Narendra Modi to discuss the conflicts in Ukraine &amp; Gaza and protecting shipping lanes in the Red Sea. We also talked about our growing commercial relations #semiconductors #pharmaceuticals #greenhydrogen and the upcoming royal trade mission to India."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-mans-10m-loss-in-ipl-betting-ends-in-wifes-tragic-suicide-704437">India: Karnataka man's 10 million loss in IPL betting ends in wife's tragic suicide</a></p>

<p>In a statement, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said the two leaders "agreed upon the need to enhance cooperation and support for early restoration of peace and security in the West Asia region and Russia- Ukraine conflict", adding they also exchanged views on global and regional developments.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lanka-president-wickremesinghe-looks-to-adopt-indias-digital-model-704382">Sri Lanka President Wickremesinghe looks to adopt India's digital model</a></p>

<p>It said Modi and De Croo reviewed the excellent relations between India and Belgium. "They discussed ways to further strengthen the bilateral partnership in diverse sectors including trade, investment, clean technologies, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, green hydrogen, IT, defence, ports, among others," the statement said. The two leaders affirmed commitment to further bolster the India – EU Strategic Partnership under the ongoing Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke with his Belgian counterpart Alexander De Croo and agreed to enhance cooperation and support for early restoration of peace and security in West Asia and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke with his Belgian counterpart Alexander De Croo and agreed to enhance cooperation and support for early restoration of peace and security in West Asia and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. During the telephone call, Modi also congratulated De Croo on the successful hosting of the First Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels last week. After the conversation, Modi tweeted, "Spoke to Belgium PM Alexander Decroo. Congratulated him on the success of the First Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels. Exchanged views on strengthening bilateral ties; advancing India-EU Partnership under Belgian Presidency; and cooperation on regional and global issues." Spoke to Belgium PM @alexanderdecroo. Congratulated him on the success of the First Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels. Exchanged views on strengthening bilateral ties; advancing India-EU Partnership under Belgian Presidency; and cooperation on regional and global issues. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 26, 2024 × De Croo also put out a tweet saying, "Called prime minister Narendra Modi to discuss the conflicts in Ukraine & Gaza and protecting shipping lanes in the Red Sea. We also talked about our growing commercial relations #semiconductors #pharmaceuticals #greenhydrogen and the upcoming royal trade mission to India." Also read: India: Karnataka man's 10 million loss in IPL betting ends in wife's tragic suicide In a statement, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said the two leaders "agreed upon the need to enhance cooperation and support for early restoration of peace and security in the West Asia region and Russia- Ukraine conflict", adding they also exchanged views on global and regional developments. Also read: Sri Lanka President Wickremesinghe looks to adopt India's digital model It said Modi and De Croo reviewed the excellent relations between India and Belgium. "They discussed ways to further strengthen the bilateral partnership in diverse sectors including trade, investment, clean technologies, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, green hydrogen, IT, defence, ports, among others," the statement said. The two leaders affirmed commitment to further bolster the India – EU Strategic Partnership under the ongoing Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

PM Modi dials Belgian counterpart; discusses West Asia, Russia-Ukraine peace

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<p>French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (Mar 24) told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that any forced transfer of people from the war-torn Gaza Strip's Rafah would constitute "a war crime." In a statement, French President Macron's office said that he held a telephonic&nbsp;conversation with Netanyahu during which&nbsp;he "strongly condemned" Israel's announcement of seizing 800 hectares of land in the occupied West Bank for new settlements.</p>

<p>Macron told the Israeli Prime Minister that he intended to bring a draft resolution to the UN Security Council calling for "an immediate and lasting ceasefire," his office said. The French president also reiterated his position on any Israeli military operation to fight Hamas in Rafah and urged the Netanyahu government to immediately open all crossing points into Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-told-us-not-trying-to-push-him-out-amid-tensions-over-rafah-assault-plan-702081">Biden assures Netanyahu US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan</a></strong></p>

<p>Most of Gaza's population has taken shelter in Rafah after months of fierce fighting in the besieged Palestinian territory.</p>

<h2><strong>Israeli air strike kills seven in Rafah</strong></h2>

<p>Macron's remarks came as an Israeli air strike on a house in Rafah killed seven people. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, resident Hassan Zanoun said, "As you can see the destruction and devastation. They say Rafah is a safe area and instruct people to come here, so displaced people come to us."</p>

<p>Zanoun, whose family narrowly escaped being crushed under the rubble during the strike, added, "The Israeli planes hit the neighbours’ house and the house where we were staying was damaged and we almost died in it. This is what they call security and safety, they are moving us like a cat and its kittens."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Netanyahu tells Blinken Israel will 'do it alone' in Rafah push</strong></p>

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<p>Since the war between Israel and Hamas started in early October last year, more than 32,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel has claimed that Rafah is the last bastion for Hamas militants and that it has a plan to evacuate civilians before an attack, though it has not shared one publicly.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (Mar 24) told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that any forced transfer of people from the war-torn Gaza Strip's Rafah would constitute "a war crime.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (Mar 24) told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that any forced transfer of people from the war-torn Gaza Strip's Rafah would constitute "a war crime." In a statement, French President Macron's office said that he held a telephonic conversation with Netanyahu during which he "strongly condemned" Israel's announcement of seizing 800 hectares of land in the occupied West Bank for new settlements. Macron told the Israeli Prime Minister that he intended to bring a draft resolution to the UN Security Council calling for "an immediate and lasting ceasefire," his office said. The French president also reiterated his position on any Israeli military operation to fight Hamas in Rafah and urged the Netanyahu government to immediately open all crossing points into Gaza. Also read | Biden assures Netanyahu US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan Most of Gaza's population has taken shelter in Rafah after months of fierce fighting in the besieged Palestinian territory. Israeli air strike kills seven in Rafah Macron's remarks came as an Israeli air strike on a house in Rafah killed seven people. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, resident Hassan Zanoun said, "As you can see the destruction and devastation. They say Rafah is a safe area and instruct people to come here, so displaced people come to us." Zanoun, whose family narrowly escaped being crushed under the rubble during the strike, added, "The Israeli planes hit the neighbours’ house and the house where we were staying was damaged and we almost died in it. This is what they call security and safety, they are moving us like a cat and its kittens." Also watch | Netanyahu tells Blinken Israel will 'do it alone' in Rafah push × Since the war between Israel and Hamas started in early October last year, more than 32,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza. Israel has claimed that Rafah is the last bastion for Hamas militants and that it has a plan to evacuate civilians before an attack, though it has not shared one publicly. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Any forced transfer of people from Rafah would be war crime, says Macron

<p>The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), on Monday (Mar 25)&nbsp;passed a resolution calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group&nbsp;Hamas during the&nbsp;month of Ramadan and an&nbsp;unconditional release of all hostages held in the besieged enclave.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened at the UNSC?</strong></h2>

<p>The UNSC adopted the resolution with&nbsp;14 council members voting in favour of the measure and the United States abstained. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The text demanded&nbsp;an “immediate ceasefire” for the ongoing Muslim holy month of Ramadan, “leading to a permanent sustainable ceasefire.”</p>

<p>The resolution passed also "emphasises the urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian assistance to and reinforce the protection of civilians in the entire Gaza Strip and reiterates its demand for the lifting of all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale."</p>

<p>On Friday (Mar 22),&nbsp;the UNSC had turned down the resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a hostage deal after Russia and China vetoed the US-led draft. Out of the 15 council members, 11 voted in favour of the resolution, but the vetoes stopped its passage.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israeli-offensive-in-rafah-would-be-a-huge-mistake-says-us-vice-president-kamala-harris-704011">Gaza war: Israeli offensive in Rafah would be a huge mistake, says US Vice President Kamala Harris</a></strong></p>

<p>The measure passed&nbsp;on Monday is&nbsp;an alternative resolution drafted by the 10 elected members of the UNSC.&nbsp;Notably, the resolution on Friday was the first time that the US backed a draft that came up for a vote with the word “ceasefire” in it since the beginning of the war.</p>

<h2><strong>UN chief calls for implementation</strong></h2>

<p>The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres after the vote called for the implementation of the resolution and said "failure&nbsp;would be unforgivable."</p>

<p>"The Security Council just approved a long-awaited resolution on Gaza, demanding an immediate ceasefire, and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages," said the UN chief in a post on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier on Monday, Guterres&nbsp;said that there is growing international consensus to tell Israel that a ceasefire is necessary and that any ground invasion of Rafah in southern Gaza would lead to a humanitarian disaster.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-concert-hall-attack-russian-charges-four-suspects-amid-reports-they-did-it-for-money-703914">Moscow concert hall attack: Russia charges four suspects amid reports they did it 'for money'</a></strong></p>

<p>During his visit, Guterres also visited the Wihdat camp in Jordan where the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) provides health and education services.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We must strive to keep the one-of-a-kind services that UNRWA provides flowing because that keeps hope flowing. In a darkening world, UNRWA is the one ray of light for millions of people,” said the UN chief. Jordan is home to around 2.4 million Palestinian refugees.</p>

<p>The funding for UNRWA hangs in balance after Israel accused a dozen of the agency’s staff members of being a part of the October 7 Hamas attack against Israel. This has led a number of countries including some of its biggest donors to pause the funding.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), on Monday (Mar 25) passed a resolution calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas during the month of Ramadan and an unconditional release of all hostages held in the besieged enclave.

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), on Monday (Mar 25) passed a resolution calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas during the month of Ramadan and an unconditional release of all hostages held in the besieged enclave. What happened at the UNSC? The UNSC adopted the resolution with 14 council members voting in favour of the measure and the United States abstained. The text demanded an “immediate ceasefire” for the ongoing Muslim holy month of Ramadan, “leading to a permanent sustainable ceasefire.” The resolution passed also "emphasises the urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian assistance to and reinforce the protection of civilians in the entire Gaza Strip and reiterates its demand for the lifting of all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale." On Friday (Mar 22), the UNSC had turned down the resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a hostage deal after Russia and China vetoed the US-led draft. Out of the 15 council members, 11 voted in favour of the resolution, but the vetoes stopped its passage. Also Read | Gaza war: Israeli offensive in Rafah would be a huge mistake, says US Vice President Kamala Harris The measure passed on Monday is an alternative resolution drafted by the 10 elected members of the UNSC. Notably, the resolution on Friday was the first time that the US backed a draft that came up for a vote with the word “ceasefire” in it since the beginning of the war. UN chief calls for implementation The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres after the vote called for the implementation of the resolution and said "failure would be unforgivable." "The Security Council just approved a long-awaited resolution on Gaza, demanding an immediate ceasefire, and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages," said the UN chief in a post on X. Earlier on Monday, Guterres said that there is growing international consensus to tell Israel that a ceasefire is necessary and that any ground invasion of Rafah in southern Gaza would lead to a humanitarian disaster. Also Read | Moscow concert hall attack: Russia charges four suspects amid reports they did it 'for money' During his visit, Guterres also visited the Wihdat camp in Jordan where the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) provides health and education services. “We must strive to keep the one-of-a-kind services that UNRWA provides flowing because that keeps hope flowing. In a darkening world, UNRWA is the one ray of light for millions of people,” said the UN chief. Jordan is home to around 2.4 million Palestinian refugees. The funding for UNRWA hangs in balance after Israel accused a dozen of the agency’s staff members of being a part of the October 7 Hamas attack against Israel. This has led a number of countries including some of its biggest donors to pause the funding. (With inputs from agencies)

UNSC passes resolution demanding ‘immediate ceasefire’ in Gaza during Ramadan; US abstains from voting

Israeli forces took control of two more hospitals in Gaza on Sunday (Mar 24), amid claims that healthcare facilities in the besieged territory are used by Hamas operatives. The Palestinian Red Crescent said Israel’s offensive pinned down medical staff under heavy gunfire, killing at least one of its staff. It said Israeli tanks suddenly pushed back into areas around Al-Amal and Nasser hospitals in the southern city of Khan Younis. Watch to know more!

Gaza war: 2 more hospitals now under Israel’s control as IDF demands full evacuation: Hamas

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<p>United States (US) Vice President Kamala Harris said on Sunday (Mar 24) that Israel's offensive in the Gaza Strip's Rafah would be a huge mistake. “We have been clear in multiple conversations and in every way that any major military operation in Rafah would be a huge mistake," Vice President Harris told ABC News. On being asked whether there would be consequences of the Rafah offensive, Harris said, "I am ruling out nothing."</p>

<p>"Let me tell you something: I have studied the maps. There's nowhere for those folks to go. And we're looking at about a million and a half people in Rafah who are there because they were told to go there, most of them," she also told the American news network.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-any-forced-transfer-of-people-from-rafah-would-be-war-crime-says-macron-703988">Gaza war: Any forced transfer of people from Rafah would be war crime, says Macron</a></strong></p>

<p>The vice president further opposed the killing of innocent Palestinians, affirming the right of both Israelis and Palestinians to live in "equal security and dignity."</p>

<h2><strong>'Israel risks further global isolation if it attacks Rafah'</strong></h2>

<p>Kamala Harris' remarks on Sunday came two days after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that Israel risked further global isolation if it attacked Rafah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Blinken, who met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last Friday during his tour of the Middle East, told reporters, "We share Israel’s goal of defeating Hamas... though, a major military ground operation in Rafah is not the way to do it."</p>

<p>"It risks killing more civilians, it risks wreaking greater havoc with the provision of humanitarian assistance, it risks further isolating Israel around the world and jeopardizing its long-term security and standing," Blinken added.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Netanyahu tells Blinken Israel will 'do it alone' in Rafah push</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said that Israel would go it alone if Washington remained opposed to plans to push into Rafah against the territory's southern border fence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I also said that we have no way to defeat Hamas without going into Rafah and eliminating the rest of the battalions there. And I told him that I hope we will do it with the support of the US, but if we have to - we will do it alone," Netanyahu said in a video statement to reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States (US) Vice President Kamala Harris said on Sunday (Mar 24) that Israel's offensive in the Gaza Strip's Rafah would be a huge mistake. “We have been clear in multiple conversations and in every way that any major military operation in Rafah would be a huge mistake," Vice President Harris told ABC News.

United States (US) Vice President Kamala Harris said on Sunday (Mar 24) that Israel's offensive in the Gaza Strip's Rafah would be a huge mistake. “We have been clear in multiple conversations and in every way that any major military operation in Rafah would be a huge mistake," Vice President Harris told ABC News. On being asked whether there would be consequences of the Rafah offensive, Harris said, "I am ruling out nothing." "Let me tell you something: I have studied the maps. There's nowhere for those folks to go. And we're looking at about a million and a half people in Rafah who are there because they were told to go there, most of them," she also told the American news network. Also read | Gaza war: Any forced transfer of people from Rafah would be war crime, says Macron The vice president further opposed the killing of innocent Palestinians, affirming the right of both Israelis and Palestinians to live in "equal security and dignity." 'Israel risks further global isolation if it attacks Rafah' Kamala Harris' remarks on Sunday came two days after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that Israel risked further global isolation if it attacked Rafah. Blinken, who met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last Friday during his tour of the Middle East, told reporters, "We share Israel’s goal of defeating Hamas... though, a major military ground operation in Rafah is not the way to do it." "It risks killing more civilians, it risks wreaking greater havoc with the provision of humanitarian assistance, it risks further isolating Israel around the world and jeopardizing its long-term security and standing," Blinken added. Also watch | Netanyahu tells Blinken Israel will 'do it alone' in Rafah push × Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said that Israel would go it alone if Washington remained opposed to plans to push into Rafah against the territory's southern border fence. "I also said that we have no way to defeat Hamas without going into Rafah and eliminating the rest of the battalions there. And I told him that I hope we will do it with the support of the US, but if we have to - we will do it alone," Netanyahu said in a video statement to reporters. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israeli offensive in Rafah would be a huge mistake, says US Vice President Kamala Harris

<p>The Israeli offensive around Gaza's main hospital intensified on Saturday (Mar 23) in which Israel claims to have killed more than 170 gunmen and according to the Palestinian Health Ministry, five patients lost their lives.</p>

<p>The armed wing of Hamas and the Islamic Jihad stated that their fighters were gripped in battles with the Israeli military troops around the Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.</p>

<p>Israeli military personnel launched its attack on Al Shifa in the early hours of Monday morning and have been inspecting its complex, which, as per the troops, is connected to a tunnel network that the Palestinian militant group Hamas and other Palestinian fighters use as a base.</p>

<p>The Gaza Health Ministry said that the five injured Palestinians "besieged" inside Al Shifa lost their lives because they were denied proper care, water and food for the past six days.</p>

<p>It further added that the health condition of other wounded patients was also deteriorating.</p>

<h2><strong>Hamas denies armed presence</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas has denied any military presence in the area claiming that the ones announced dead by Israeli troops were not fighters but patients and displaced people.</p>

<p>Hamas media stated that elsewhere in Gaza City on Saturday seven Palestinians were killed and several others were injured at the Kuwait roundabout at the time they were waiting for aid trucks.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-online-spat-erupts-between-uk-and-israel-as-eu-us-pile-pressure-for-ceasefire-702871">Also read:&nbsp;Gaza war: Online spat erupts between UK and Israel as EU, US pile pressure for ceasefire</a></p>

<p>"We survived death, they shot at us, there are many martyrs, there are many injured, we almost died to get our children a bite to eat," said Alaa al-Khoudary, a resident of Gaza City who had just returned from Kuwait roundabout carrying a bag of aid.</p>

<h2><strong>China and Russia veto US-proposed UN Gaza 'ceasefire' resolution</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council's recent session witnessed the rejection of a resolution spearheaded by the United States, advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The resolution, proposed amid escalating tensions in the region, aimed to secure a six-week ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery and ensure the protection of civilians caught in the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the measure faced significant opposition from two permanent members of the Security Council: Russia and China, who exercised their veto power to block its passage.</p>

<p>The US-led resolution backed support from 11 out of the 15 Security Council members, showing a broad consensus among the international community regarding the urgency of ending the violence in Gaza.</p>

<p>Despite this overwhelming support, the resolution was thwarted by the vetoes of Russia and China, leading to a deadlock in the Security Council's efforts to address the crisis.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Israeli offensive around Gaza's main hospital intensified on Saturday (Mar 23) in which Israel claims to have killed more than 170 gunmen and according to the Palestinian Health Ministry, five patients lost their lives.

The Israeli offensive around Gaza's main hospital intensified on Saturday (Mar 23) in which Israel claims to have killed more than 170 gunmen and according to the Palestinian Health Ministry, five patients lost their lives. The armed wing of Hamas and the Islamic Jihad stated that their fighters were gripped in battles with the Israeli military troops around the Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. Israeli military personnel launched its attack on Al Shifa in the early hours of Monday morning and have been inspecting its complex, which, as per the troops, is connected to a tunnel network that the Palestinian militant group Hamas and other Palestinian fighters use as a base. The Gaza Health Ministry said that the five injured Palestinians "besieged" inside Al Shifa lost their lives because they were denied proper care, water and food for the past six days. It further added that the health condition of other wounded patients was also deteriorating. Hamas denies armed presence Hamas has denied any military presence in the area claiming that the ones announced dead by Israeli troops were not fighters but patients and displaced people. Hamas media stated that elsewhere in Gaza City on Saturday seven Palestinians were killed and several others were injured at the Kuwait roundabout at the time they were waiting for aid trucks. Also read: Gaza war: Online spat erupts between UK and Israel as EU, US pile pressure for ceasefire "We survived death, they shot at us, there are many martyrs, there are many injured, we almost died to get our children a bite to eat," said Alaa al-Khoudary, a resident of Gaza City who had just returned from Kuwait roundabout carrying a bag of aid. China and Russia veto US-proposed UN Gaza 'ceasefire' resolution Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council's recent session witnessed the rejection of a resolution spearheaded by the United States, advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution, proposed amid escalating tensions in the region, aimed to secure a six-week ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery and ensure the protection of civilians caught in the conflict. However, the measure faced significant opposition from two permanent members of the Security Council: Russia and China, who exercised their veto power to block its passage. The US-led resolution backed support from 11 out of the 15 Security Council members, showing a broad consensus among the international community regarding the urgency of ending the violence in Gaza. Despite this overwhelming support, the resolution was thwarted by the vetoes of Russia and China, leading to a deadlock in the Security Council's efforts to address the crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel says 170 gunmen killed in Gaza hospital raid

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is currently on a tour of the Middle East, said on Wednesday (Mar 20) that Washington submitted a draft resolution to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war linked to the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip. In an interview with the Saudi Al-Hadath channel, he said,&nbsp;"We have in fact submitted a resolution which is now before the Security Council calling for an immediate ceasefire linked to the release of the hostages, and we very much hope that countries will support it."</p>

<p>Blinken said that a good offer was given to Hamas, but the Palestinian militant group did not accept it. "If Hamas cares about the residents of Gaza, it will reach an agreement," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Blinken's sixth tour to Middle East</strong></h2>

<p>Blinken started his Middle East tour, his sixth since the war began,&nbsp;on Wednesday by holding talks in Saudi Arabia. He met Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-nearly-70-former-us-officials-urge-president-biden-to-warn-israel-of-consequences-if-702457">Gaza war: Nearly 70 former US officials urge President Biden to warn Israel of consequences if...</a></strong></p>

<p>According to US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, Blinken and Prince Faisal had discussed the urgent need to protect all civilians in Gaza and immediately increase humanitarian assistance, and underlined the importance of preparing for the phase following the end of the conflict.</p>

<p>Blinken also met Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From Saudi Arabia, Blinken will go to Egypt where he will meet the foreign ministers of six Arab countries and the envoy of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. On Friday, Blinken will be in Israel and hold a meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and members of the war cabinet.</p>

<h2><strong>Fighting intensifies in northern Gaza</strong></h2>

<p>Blinken's Middle East tour comes as fighting has intensified in recent days in northern parts of Gaza captured by Israeli forces early in the war, including the Al Shifa hospital.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the Israeli military said it had killed around 90 gunmen and arrested 160 in a raid on the hospital. "Over the past day, the troops have eliminated terrorists and located weapons in the hospital area, while preventing harm to civilians, patients, medical teams, and medical equipment," the military said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US Secy of State Antony Blinken meets Saudi crown-prince in Jeddah</strong></p>

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<p>The military added it had sent in special forces supported by infantry and tanks, based on intelligence that the hospital was again being used by gunmen. However, Ismail Al-Thawabta, director of Gaza's Hamas-run government media office, told the news agency Reuters that all of those killed had been wounded patients and displaced persons inside the hospital.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is currently on a tour of the Middle East, said on Wednesday (Mar 20) that Washington submitted a draft resolution to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war linked to the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is currently on a tour of the Middle East, said on Wednesday (Mar 20) that Washington submitted a draft resolution to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war linked to the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip. In an interview with the Saudi Al-Hadath channel, he said, "We have in fact submitted a resolution which is now before the Security Council calling for an immediate ceasefire linked to the release of the hostages, and we very much hope that countries will support it." Blinken said that a good offer was given to Hamas, but the Palestinian militant group did not accept it. "If Hamas cares about the residents of Gaza, it will reach an agreement," he added. Blinken's sixth tour to Middle East Blinken started his Middle East tour, his sixth since the war began, on Wednesday by holding talks in Saudi Arabia. He met Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. Also watch | Gaza war: Nearly 70 former US officials urge President Biden to warn Israel of consequences if... According to US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, Blinken and Prince Faisal had discussed the urgent need to protect all civilians in Gaza and immediately increase humanitarian assistance, and underlined the importance of preparing for the phase following the end of the conflict. Blinken also met Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. From Saudi Arabia, Blinken will go to Egypt where he will meet the foreign ministers of six Arab countries and the envoy of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. On Friday, Blinken will be in Israel and hold a meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and members of the war cabinet. Fighting intensifies in northern Gaza Blinken's Middle East tour comes as fighting has intensified in recent days in northern parts of Gaza captured by Israeli forces early in the war, including the Al Shifa hospital. On Wednesday, the Israeli military said it had killed around 90 gunmen and arrested 160 in a raid on the hospital. "Over the past day, the troops have eliminated terrorists and located weapons in the hospital area, while preventing harm to civilians, patients, medical teams, and medical equipment," the military said in a statement. Also watch | US Secy of State Antony Blinken meets Saudi crown-prince in Jeddah × The military added it had sent in special forces supported by infantry and tanks, based on intelligence that the hospital was again being used by gunmen. However, Ismail Al-Thawabta, director of Gaza's Hamas-run government media office, told the news agency Reuters that all of those killed had been wounded patients and displaced persons inside the hospital. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: US submitted draft resolution to UNSC calling for immediate truce, says Blinken

<p>Nearly 70 former&nbsp;officials of the United States&nbsp;on Wednesday (Mar 20) urged President Joe Biden to warn Israel of serious consequences if it denied civil rights and basic necessities to Palestinians and expanded settlement activity in the West Bank. In a letter to President Biden as seen by the news agency Reuters, the group said that Washington must be willing to take concrete action to oppose such practices by Israel.</p>

<p>The signatories included over a dozen former ambassadors, retired State Department officials, and former Pentagon, intelligence and White House officials. They underscored rising dismay in the US over Israel's offensive in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Israel's operation necessary and justified'</strong></h2>

<p>The group said that Israel's operation against Hamas was necessary and justified, but the operation has been marked by repeated violations of international law banning indiscriminate killing and the use of weapons that do not&nbsp;discriminate&nbsp;between combatants and civilians.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-addresses-us-senate-republicans-days-after-chuck-schumer-called-for-his-removal-as-pm-702449">Netanyahu addresses US Senate Republicans days after Chuck Schumer called for his removal as PM</a></strong></p>

<p>"Tens of thousands of Gazan civilians have been killed, the majority of whom are women and children. Civilian killings of this nature and magnitude cannot be justified," the group added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It further said that it supported Biden's call for an immediate ceasefire of at least six weeks, the establishment of a reliable humanitarian aid delivery system, and the release of hostages.</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu addresses Republicans</strong></h2>

<p>The group's letter came as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that his country would continue its efforts to defeat Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;Netanyahu made this remark during a conversation with Republicans via video link.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We asked ... him for an update and we got it on the war, on the release of the hostages, and in the efforts to defeat Hamas. We told him Israel has every right to defend themselves and he said that's exactly what they continue to do," Senator John Barrasso told the news agency Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US and Israel do not see eye-to-eye on Rafah</strong></p>

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<p>Senator Jim Risch, meanwhile, said that&nbsp;Netanyahu had addressed civilian casualties and the need to get more aid into Gaza. He said Netanyahu was "very supportive" of plans to build a temporary pier and bring in aid by sea.</p>

<p>"He's very sensitive to the fact that every civilian casualty is a very unfortunate event," Risch added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Nearly 70 former officials of the United States on Wednesday (Mar 20) urged President Joe Biden to warn Israel of serious consequences if it denied civil rights and basic necessities to Palestinians and expanded settlement activity in the West Bank.

Nearly 70 former officials of the United States on Wednesday (Mar 20) urged President Joe Biden to warn Israel of serious consequences if it denied civil rights and basic necessities to Palestinians and expanded settlement activity in the West Bank. In a letter to President Biden as seen by the news agency Reuters, the group said that Washington must be willing to take concrete action to oppose such practices by Israel. The signatories included over a dozen former ambassadors, retired State Department officials, and former Pentagon, intelligence and White House officials. They underscored rising dismay in the US over Israel's offensive in the Gaza Strip. 'Israel's operation necessary and justified' The group said that Israel's operation against Hamas was necessary and justified, but the operation has been marked by repeated violations of international law banning indiscriminate killing and the use of weapons that do not discriminate between combatants and civilians. Also read | Netanyahu addresses US Senate Republicans days after Chuck Schumer called for his removal as PM "Tens of thousands of Gazan civilians have been killed, the majority of whom are women and children. Civilian killings of this nature and magnitude cannot be justified," the group added. It further said that it supported Biden's call for an immediate ceasefire of at least six weeks, the establishment of a reliable humanitarian aid delivery system, and the release of hostages. Netanyahu addresses Republicans The group's letter came as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that his country would continue its efforts to defeat Hamas in Gaza. Netanyahu made this remark during a conversation with Republicans via video link. "We asked ... him for an update and we got it on the war, on the release of the hostages, and in the efforts to defeat Hamas. We told him Israel has every right to defend themselves and he said that's exactly what they continue to do," Senator John Barrasso told the news agency Reuters. Also watch | US and Israel do not see eye-to-eye on Rafah × Senator Jim Risch, meanwhile, said that Netanyahu had addressed civilian casualties and the need to get more aid into Gaza. He said Netanyahu was "very supportive" of plans to build a temporary pier and bring in aid by sea. "He's very sensitive to the fact that every civilian casualty is a very unfortunate event," Risch added. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Nearly 70 former US officials urge President Biden to warn Israel of consequences if...

<p>The United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT) on Wednesday (Mar 20) released an updated assessment of the Gaza Strip, highlighting the extent of damage inflicted on buildings in the region amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The recent analysis based on satellite imagery stated that around 35 per cent of Gaza Strip structures have been damaged since the conflict began.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel-Hamas War</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The war between Israel and Hamas began when the Islamist group launched an unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to official figures released by Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel vowed to eliminate Hamas and launched a massive military offensive in Gaza, which also included ground incursions. Since the war started, Israeli forces have killed more than 31,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-us-submitted-draft-resolution-to-unsc-calling-for-immediate-truce-says-blinken-702522">Gaza war: US submitted draft resolution to UNSC calling for immediate truce, says Blinken</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Satellite image assessment&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>UNOSAT noted that the analysis is based on very high-resolution satellite imagery collected on&nbsp;February 29, 2024. The image revealed a significant increase in destruction compared to previous assessments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An official release mentioned that UNOSAT compared the image with others dated: May 1 and May 10 in 2023; September 18, 2023; October 15 in 2023; November 7 and 26 in 2023; and January 6 and 7 in 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that 35 per cent of&nbsp;buildings in the Gaza Strip have been damaged. The percentage represents 88,868 structures, among which 31,198 of them have been identified as destroyed. A total of 16,908 have been severely damaged, and 40,762 are moderately damaged.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="UNOSAT" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84e64351-ef83-4eac-8ccb-de3250d17d71" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/UNOSAT.png" /></p>

<p><em>Image source:&nbsp;United Nations Satellite Centre.&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-nearly-70-former-us-officials-urge-president-biden-to-warn-israel-of-consequences-if-702457">Gaza war: Nearly 70 former US officials urge President Biden to warn Israel of consequences if...</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>"This represents an increase of nearly 20,000 damaged structures compared to the previous assessment realized in January 2024," the report stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the UNOSAT report, the governorates of Khan Yunis and Gaza have experienced the "most significant" rise in damage, with Khan Yunis seeing 12,279 additional damaged structures and Gaza experiencing 2,010. In Khan Yunis City, there are 6,663 newly destroyed structures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Beyond the number of damaged buildings, this update provides an estimate of 121,400 housing units impacted by the destruction in the Gaza Strip," the UNOSAT report added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT) on Wednesday (Mar 20) released an updated assessment of the Gaza Strip, highlighting the extent of damage inflicted on buildings in the region amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.

The United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT) on Wednesday (Mar 20) released an updated assessment of the Gaza Strip, highlighting the extent of damage inflicted on buildings in the region amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. The recent analysis based on satellite imagery stated that around 35 per cent of Gaza Strip structures have been damaged since the conflict began. Israel-Hamas War The war between Israel and Hamas began when the Islamist group launched an unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to official figures released by Israel. Israel vowed to eliminate Hamas and launched a massive military offensive in Gaza, which also included ground incursions. Since the war started, Israeli forces have killed more than 31,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities. Also read: Gaza war: US submitted draft resolution to UNSC calling for immediate truce, says Blinken Satellite image assessment UNOSAT noted that the analysis is based on very high-resolution satellite imagery collected on February 29, 2024. The image revealed a significant increase in destruction compared to previous assessments. An official release mentioned that UNOSAT compared the image with others dated: May 1 and May 10 in 2023; September 18, 2023; October 15 in 2023; November 7 and 26 in 2023; and January 6 and 7 in 2024. The report mentioned that 35 per cent of buildings in the Gaza Strip have been damaged. The percentage represents 88,868 structures, among which 31,198 of them have been identified as destroyed. A total of 16,908 have been severely damaged, and 40,762 are moderately damaged. Image source: United Nations Satellite Centre. Also read: Gaza war: Nearly 70 former US officials urge President Biden to warn Israel of consequences if... Watch this report: × "This represents an increase of nearly 20,000 damaged structures compared to the previous assessment realized in January 2024," the report stated. As per the UNOSAT report, the governorates of Khan Yunis and Gaza have experienced the "most significant" rise in damage, with Khan Yunis seeing 12,279 additional damaged structures and Gaza experiencing 2,010. In Khan Yunis City, there are 6,663 newly destroyed structures. "Beyond the number of damaged buildings, this update provides an estimate of 121,400 housing units impacted by the destruction in the Gaza Strip," the UNOSAT report 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)

Gaza Strip: Satellite image analysis shows massive destruction in war-ravaged region

<p>Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Mar 20) reiterated that Israel will launch a ground offensive against Rafah in the south of the Gaza Strip, however, it will "take some time" for the forces to be prepared for such an action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu said that Israel is continuing to operate in Khan Younis, in the camps in the centre, in eliminating and capturing senior Hamas officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a televised address, Netanyahu said that he will soon approve a plan for the evacuation of Palestinian civilians from fighting areas once the military's operational plans for Rafah are approved.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-canada-to-halt-arms-sales-to-israel-uk-deputy-pm-calls-for-humanitarian-ceasefire-in-gaza-702194">Canada to halt arms sales to Israel; UK deputy PM calls for humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The city of Rafah is on the southern edge of Gaza sheltering more than half the enclave's 2.3 million people currently.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Analysts have warned that a ground incursion will further worsen the situation in Rafah amid widespread shortages of food, medicines and clean water.&nbsp;Washington says a ground assault there would be a "mistake" and cause too much harm to civilians.</p>

<p>A UN-backed report has even projected famine and stated that about half the population across the whole of the Gaza Strip facing "catastrophic hunger".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-told-us-not-trying-to-push-him-out-amid-tensions-over-rafah-assault-plan-702081">Biden assures Netanyahu US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Netanyahu told lawmakers he had made it "supremely clear" to United States President Biden in a phone call "that we are determined to complete the elimination of these battalions in Rafah, and there's no way to do that except by going in on the ground".&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Israel, Rafah is the last major holdout of armed fighters from Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Senior Hamas officials killed</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Wednesday that fighter jets eliminated five senior Hamas officials in Rafah on Monday. As reported by the local media, the jets operated in accordance with intelligence provided by the IDF and Shin Bet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sayid Katab Alkhashash, Osama Hamd Zaher, Muhamed, and Aud Almelalakhi are among the operatives who were killed. They were allegedly heads of Hamas' Emergency Bureau in northern and eastern Rafah. Hadi Abu Alrus Kasin, an operations officer, was also killed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>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.</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Mar 20) reiterated that Israel will launch a ground offensive against Rafah in the south of the Gaza Strip, however, it will "take some time" for the forces to be prepared for such an action.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Mar 20) reiterated that Israel will launch a ground offensive against Rafah in the south of the Gaza Strip, however, it will "take some time" for the forces to be prepared for such an action. Netanyahu said that Israel is continuing to operate in Khan Younis, in the camps in the centre, in eliminating and capturing senior Hamas officials. In a televised address, Netanyahu said that he will soon approve a plan for the evacuation of Palestinian civilians from fighting areas once the military's operational plans for Rafah are approved. Also read: Canada to halt arms sales to Israel; UK deputy PM calls for humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza The city of Rafah is on the southern edge of Gaza sheltering more than half the enclave's 2.3 million people currently. Analysts have warned that a ground incursion will further worsen the situation in Rafah amid widespread shortages of food, medicines and clean water. Washington says a ground assault there would be a "mistake" and cause too much harm to civilians. A UN-backed report has even projected famine and stated that about half the population across the whole of the Gaza Strip facing "catastrophic hunger". Also read: Biden assures Netanyahu US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan Netanyahu told lawmakers he had made it "supremely clear" to United States President Biden in a phone call "that we are determined to complete the elimination of these battalions in Rafah, and there's no way to do that except by going in on the ground". According to Israel, Rafah is the last major holdout of armed fighters from Hamas. Watch this report: × Senior Hamas officials killed Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Wednesday that fighter jets eliminated five senior Hamas officials in Rafah on Monday. As reported by the local media, the jets operated in accordance with intelligence provided by the IDF and Shin Bet. Sayid Katab Alkhashash, Osama Hamd Zaher, Muhamed, and Aud Almelalakhi are among the operatives who were killed. They were allegedly heads of Hamas' Emergency Bureau in northern and eastern Rafah. Hadi Abu Alrus Kasin, an operations officer, was also killed. 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: Netanyahu says preparations for ground assault on Rafah will ‘take some time’

<p>Canada will halt future arms sales to Israel, said the country’s foreign affairs minister Mélanie Joly, on Tuesday (Mar 19) following a non-binding vote in the House of Commons. Meanwhile, Britain’s deputy prime minister defended Israel’s right to protect itself while calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza on humanitarian grounds.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Canada to halt arms sales to Israel</strong></h2>

<p>In an interview with the Toronto Star, Joly confirmed that her government would halt future arms shipments to Israel after a parliamentary motion, introduced by the New Democratic Party (NDP), passed 204-117.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israeli military troops raid Gaza's Al Shifa hospital</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israeli-military-troops-raid-gazas-al-shifa-hospital-702120/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The NDP, which supports Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s minority government, introduced the motion following frustration over what they said was his failure to do enough to protect civilians in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The motion passed&nbsp;Monday (Mar 18) night after a last-minute deal between Trudeau’s Liberal Party and the NDP. The Canadian government previously said that it had paused issuing military export permits to Israel and it would be assessing applications on “a case-by-case basis”.</p>

<p>After the motion was passed, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, a lobby group, called it “misguided” as it does not “effectively address the humanitarian crisis” in Gaza or “liberate Gazans from the tyrannical rule” of Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel, the Trudeau government has asserted Israel’s right to defend itself but has eventually grown critical of its current assault on Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-slams-trudeau-after-canada-tells-israel-killing-of-babies-in-gaza-must-end-658656">Netanyahu slams Trudeau after Canada PM tells Israel ‘killing of babies’ in Gaza must end</a></strong></p>

<p>In November, the Canadian PM, in his first sharp criticism of Israel since the beginning of the war, urged the Israeli government to “exercise maximum restraint” and said the “killing of women, of children, of babies” must stop.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Britain’s deputy PM defends Israel</strong></h2>

<p>The United Kingdom Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden, on Tuesday, said that Israel has a right to protect itself, amid the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza prompting mounting international criticism of the Israeli government’s assault on the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dowden said that the British government is “continuously” urging Israel to abide by international humanitarian law and raised concerns about getting aid into Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“That’s why we are calling for an immediate ceasefire to allow that aid in, and crucially, the hostages to come out,” he told the news agency Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United Nations human rights chief&nbsp;Volker Türk&nbsp;on Tuesday said Israel’s restrictions on humanitarian aid for Gaza may amount to a starvation tactic and could be a war crime.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-told-us-not-trying-to-push-him-out-amid-tensions-over-rafah-assault-plan-702081">Biden assures Netanyahu US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan</a></strong></p>

<p>The UK deputy PM went on to stress his support for Israel, saying there is a risk that the world is forgetting the horrors of October 7, when Hamas launched attacks and according to Israeli officials killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I continue to support Israel’s right to defend itself, not only for the sake of Israel but also I think around the world we should be standing up to this kind of barbarism,” said Dowden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Subsequently, he also noted that Israel should “show restraint and proportionality in the way that they prosecute the legitimate war against Hamas.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Canada will halt future arms sales to Israel, said the country’s foreign affairs minister Mélanie Joly, on Tuesday (Mar 19) following a non-binding vote in the House of Commons.

Canada will halt future arms sales to Israel, said the country’s foreign affairs minister Mélanie Joly, on Tuesday (Mar 19) following a non-binding vote in the House of Commons. Meanwhile, Britain’s deputy prime minister defended Israel’s right to protect itself while calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza on humanitarian grounds. Canada to halt arms sales to Israel In an interview with the Toronto Star, Joly confirmed that her government would halt future arms shipments to Israel after a parliamentary motion, introduced by the New Democratic Party (NDP), passed 204-117. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli military troops raid Gaza's Al Shifa hospital The NDP, which supports Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s minority government, introduced the motion following frustration over what they said was his failure to do enough to protect civilians in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The motion passed Monday (Mar 18) night after a last-minute deal between Trudeau’s Liberal Party and the NDP. The Canadian government previously said that it had paused issuing military export permits to Israel and it would be assessing applications on “a case-by-case basis”. After the motion was passed, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, a lobby group, called it “misguided” as it does not “effectively address the humanitarian crisis” in Gaza or “liberate Gazans from the tyrannical rule” of Hamas. Since Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel, the Trudeau government has asserted Israel’s right to defend itself but has eventually grown critical of its current assault on Gaza. Also Read | Netanyahu slams Trudeau after Canada PM tells Israel ‘killing of babies’ in Gaza must end In November, the Canadian PM, in his first sharp criticism of Israel since the beginning of the war, urged the Israeli government to “exercise maximum restraint” and said the “killing of women, of children, of babies” must stop. Britain’s deputy PM defends Israel The United Kingdom Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden, on Tuesday, said that Israel has a right to protect itself, amid the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza prompting mounting international criticism of the Israeli government’s assault on the Palestinian enclave. Dowden said that the British government is “continuously” urging Israel to abide by international humanitarian law and raised concerns about getting aid into Gaza. “That’s why we are calling for an immediate ceasefire to allow that aid in, and crucially, the hostages to come out,” he told the news agency Reuters. The United Nations human rights chief Volker Türk on Tuesday said Israel’s restrictions on humanitarian aid for Gaza may amount to a starvation tactic and could be a war crime. Also Read | Biden assures Netanyahu US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan The UK deputy PM went on to stress his support for Israel, saying there is a risk that the world is forgetting the horrors of October 7, when Hamas launched attacks and according to Israeli officials killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians. “I continue to support Israel’s right to defend itself, not only for the sake of Israel but also I think around the world we should be standing up to this kind of barbarism,” said Dowden. Subsequently, he also noted that Israel should “show restraint and proportionality in the way that they prosecute the legitimate war against Hamas.” (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Canada to halt arms sales to Israel; UK deputy PM calls for humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza

<p>The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that a cruise missile fired by the Iranian-backed Yemen-based Houthi rebels managed to penetrate the country’s air defence system for the first time and landed near the Israeli city of Eilat. This comes after the group’s spokesperson Yahya Sarea, on Tuesday (Mar 19) said that they had targeted the Israeli port city.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Houthi cruise missile hits Israeli territory</strong></h2>

<p>A “suspicious aerial target” from the direction of the Red Sea, which was later identified by the IDF as a cruise missile,&nbsp;landed in an open area near Eilat early Monday (Mar 18) morning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Israeli army did not specify the origins of the missile. Houthis later claimed responsibility for the attack. Israel has not reported any damage or injuries due to the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israeli military troops raid Gaza's Al Shifa hospital</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israeli-military-troops-raid-gazas-al-shifa-hospital-702120/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The IDF also said that the missile was being tracked by the Air Force throughout the incident and has since launched an investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The missile which hit Israeli territory on Sunday (Mar 17) night, as per the country’s media reports, marks the first time that a Houthi projectile has hit Israeli territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-told-us-not-trying-to-push-him-out-amid-tensions-over-rafah-assault-plan-702081">Biden assures Netanyahu US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan</a></strong></p>

<p>Prior to the recent incident, all the missiles fired by the Houthis had been shot down, often by the United States-built Arrow 1 or 3 anti-ballistic missile defence system.</p>

<h2><strong>Houthi’s attacks amid ongoing war</strong></h2>

<p>Since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas, triggered by the Palestinian militant group’s October 7 attack, Houthis have tried to strike Israel with ballistic missiles several times.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Houthi spokesperson, Sarea, on Tuesday, said that they targeted the Israeli port and resort city with winged missiles as well as a fuel tanker, MADO, in the Red Sea with a naval missile.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-canada-to-halt-arms-sales-to-israel-uk-deputy-pm-calls-for-humanitarian-ceasefire-in-gaza-702194">Israel-Hamas war: Canada to halt arms sales to Israel; UK deputy PM calls for humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<p>The Marshall-Islands flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker was heading to Singapore from Saudi Arabia, reported Reuters citing maritime shipping trackers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Yemen-based group described MADO as an American vessel. However, Equasis’ shipping database showed that it is owned by Greece-based Naftomar Shipping &amp; Trading Co Ltd.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Iranian-backed group, saying that they are acting in solidarity with Gazans amid the ongoing war, have repeatedly launched drones and missiles at ships in the Red Sea and disrupted international commercial shipping since mid-November.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that a cruise missile fired by the Iranian-backed Yemen-based Houthi rebels managed to penetrate the country’s air defence system for the first time and landed near the Israeli city of Eilat.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that a cruise missile fired by the Iranian-backed Yemen-based Houthi rebels managed to penetrate the country’s air defence system for the first time and landed near the Israeli city of Eilat. This comes after the group’s spokesperson Yahya Sarea, on Tuesday (Mar 19) said that they had targeted the Israeli port city. Houthi cruise missile hits Israeli territory A “suspicious aerial target” from the direction of the Red Sea, which was later identified by the IDF as a cruise missile, landed in an open area near Eilat early Monday (Mar 18) morning. However, the Israeli army did not specify the origins of the missile. Houthis later claimed responsibility for the attack. Israel has not reported any damage or injuries due to the incident. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli military troops raid Gaza's Al Shifa hospital The IDF also said that the missile was being tracked by the Air Force throughout the incident and has since launched an investigation. The missile which hit Israeli territory on Sunday (Mar 17) night, as per the country’s media reports, marks the first time that a Houthi projectile has hit Israeli territory. Also Read | Biden assures Netanyahu US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan Prior to the recent incident, all the missiles fired by the Houthis had been shot down, often by the United States-built Arrow 1 or 3 anti-ballistic missile defence system. Houthi’s attacks amid ongoing war Since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas, triggered by the Palestinian militant group’s October 7 attack, Houthis have tried to strike Israel with ballistic missiles several times. Houthi spokesperson, Sarea, on Tuesday, said that they targeted the Israeli port and resort city with winged missiles as well as a fuel tanker, MADO, in the Red Sea with a naval missile. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Canada to halt arms sales to Israel; UK deputy PM calls for humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza The Marshall-Islands flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker was heading to Singapore from Saudi Arabia, reported Reuters citing maritime shipping trackers. The Yemen-based group described MADO as an American vessel. However, Equasis’ shipping database showed that it is owned by Greece-based Naftomar Shipping & Trading Co Ltd. The Iranian-backed group, saying that they are acting in solidarity with Gazans amid the ongoing war, have repeatedly launched drones and missiles at ships in the Red Sea and disrupted international commercial shipping since mid-November. (With inputs from agencies)

Houthis claim missile attack on Israel, IDF confirms “suspicious aerial target” hit port town Eilat

<p>The White House said that United States President Joe Biden spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Mar 18) and discussed the situation in Rafah. In the first call between the two leaders since February 15, they talked about the efforts to increase aid to war-ravaged Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The talks come amid rising jitters between Israel and the US over the escalating tensions in the West Asian region. The West, including the US, often backed Israel's rights to defend itself in the aftermath of Hamas' deadly October 7 attack, but now it has started to criticise Netanyahu's handling of the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"President Biden spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to discuss the latest developments in Israel and Gaza, including the situation in Rafah and efforts to surge humanitarian assistance to Gaza," the White House said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Israeli Prime Minister's Office readout,&nbsp;Netanyahu said: "We talked about the latest developments in the war, including Israel’s commitment to achieving all the goals of the war: the elimination of Hamas, the release of all our hostages, and the promise that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel – while providing the necessary humanitarian aid that helps achieve these goals."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-launch-overnight-raid-at-gazas-al-shifa-hospital-several-casualties-reported-701387">Israeli forces launch raid at Gaza’s Al-Shifa hospital, several casualties reported</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Tensions have risen recently after Senate Majority leader Chuck Schumer, a longtime supporter of Israel and the highest-ranking Jewish elected official, called for new elections in Israel and said Netanyahu was an obstacle to peace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Leaders from the US, including Biden and Nancy Pelosi, the former speaker of the United States House of Representatives, praised the speech and said that Schumer had echoed the concerns of many Americans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu responded harshly on Sunday, telling CNN in an interview that Schumer's speech was "totally inappropriate".</p>

<p>Netanyahu reiterated to a cabinet meeting on Sunday that Israeli forces would enter Rafah, the last relatively safe place in the tiny, packed Gaza territory, despite international pressure to avoid further civilian losses.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-delegation-to-head-to-doha-for-temporary-gaza-ceasefire-hostage-talks-reports-701290">Israeli delegation to head to Doha for temporary Gaza ceasefire, hostage release talks</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>'Gaza is facing famine'</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday called for a rapid ceasefire as she said on Sunday that Gaza was facing famine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are all extremely concerned about the war in Gaza and the unfolding catastrophic humanitarian situation. Gaza is facing famine, and we cannot accept this. It is critical to achieve an agreement on a ceasefire rapidly now that frees the hostages and allows more humanitarian aid to reach Gaza," she told reporters, speaking in Cairo after signing a strategic partnership agreement with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>While recalling the previous ceasefire, she praised al-Sisi, stating, "I commend you for your personal efforts Mr President to broker such a ceasefire and we're also very concerned about the risks (that) a full-scale offensive in Rafah would have on the vulnerable civilian population. This needs to be avoided at all costs."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sisi said that Egypt and European leaders have agreed to reject an Israeli military operation in Rafah.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The White House said that United States President Joe Biden spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Mar 18) and discussed the situation in Rafah.

The White House said that United States President Joe Biden spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Mar 18) and discussed the situation in Rafah. In the first call between the two leaders since February 15, they talked about the efforts to increase aid to war-ravaged Gaza. The talks come amid rising jitters between Israel and the US over the escalating tensions in the West Asian region. The West, including the US, often backed Israel's rights to defend itself in the aftermath of Hamas' deadly October 7 attack, but now it has started to criticise Netanyahu's handling of the war. "President Biden spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to discuss the latest developments in Israel and Gaza, including the situation in Rafah and efforts to surge humanitarian assistance to Gaza," the White House said. According to the Israeli Prime Minister's Office readout, Netanyahu said: "We talked about the latest developments in the war, including Israel’s commitment to achieving all the goals of the war: the elimination of Hamas, the release of all our hostages, and the promise that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel – while providing the necessary humanitarian aid that helps achieve these goals." Also read: Israeli forces launch raid at Gaza’s Al-Shifa hospital, several casualties reported Tensions have risen recently after Senate Majority leader Chuck Schumer, a longtime supporter of Israel and the highest-ranking Jewish elected official, called for new elections in Israel and said Netanyahu was an obstacle to peace. Leaders from the US, including Biden and Nancy Pelosi, the former speaker of the United States House of Representatives, praised the speech and said that Schumer had echoed the concerns of many Americans. Netanyahu responded harshly on Sunday, telling CNN in an interview that Schumer's speech was "totally inappropriate". Netanyahu reiterated to a cabinet meeting on Sunday that Israeli forces would enter Rafah, the last relatively safe place in the tiny, packed Gaza territory, despite international pressure to avoid further civilian losses. Also read: Israeli delegation to head to Doha for temporary Gaza ceasefire, hostage release talks 'Gaza is facing famine' European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday called for a rapid ceasefire as she said on Sunday that Gaza was facing famine. "We are all extremely concerned about the war in Gaza and the unfolding catastrophic humanitarian situation. Gaza is facing famine, and we cannot accept this. It is critical to achieve an agreement on a ceasefire rapidly now that frees the hostages and allows more humanitarian aid to reach Gaza," she told reporters, speaking in Cairo after signing a strategic partnership agreement with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Watch this report: × While recalling the previous ceasefire, she praised al-Sisi, stating, "I commend you for your personal efforts Mr President to broker such a ceasefire and we're also very concerned about the risks (that) a full-scale offensive in Rafah would have on the vulnerable civilian population. This needs to be avoided at all costs." Sisi said that Egypt and European leaders have agreed to reject an Israeli military operation in Rafah. 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)

Biden speaks to Netanyahu, discusses latest developments in Gaza and humanitarian aid

Thousands of Israelis in Tel Aviv called for an "election now" during a protest against the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday. Benjamin Netanyahu has approved plans for an attack on Rafah, the southernmost city in Gaza, where more than a million people displaced from elsewhere in the territory have sought shelter, officials in Israel have said. Watch this video to know more.

Israel war: Netanyahu vows to go ahead with Rafah assault

Israel's offensive has displaced most of Gaza's 2.3 million people from their homes. According to the UN, a quarter of Gaza's population is starving at the moment and this comes as air drops by the US and other nations continue. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: UN says Gaza hunger crisis worsening

<p>Israeli forces have launched an overnight raid at Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa with reports of tanks and heavy gunfire triggering panic inside the medical complex.&nbsp;Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the raid and said that troops were conducting a “high-precision operation in limited areas” of the hospital.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What we know about the Al-Shifa raid</strong></h2>

<p>The Israeli forces reportedly raided the largest hospital in the besieged Palestinian enclave, early Monday (Mar 18) for the fourth time since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas triggered by the militant group’s attack on southern Israel&nbsp;on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: UN says Gaza hunger crisis worsening</strong></p>

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<p>Israeli army vehicles were stationed inside&nbsp;Al-Shifa’s courtyard and its forces launched missiles and opened fire at the hospital’s specialised surgery building, said the Hamas-run health ministry, in a statement on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also reported that dozens of Palestinians were seen fleeing the compound, where hundreds of displaced people, patients and medical staff had been taking shelter amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The raid, according to the ministry, began around 2:00 am (local time) and resulted in a “number of martyrs and wounded”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Gaza’s government media office said Israeli troops along with tanks and drones launched the offensive and began shooting inside the complex.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-delegation-to-head-to-doha-for-temporary-gaza-ceasefire-hostage-talks-reports-701290">Israeli delegation to head to Doha for temporary Gaza ceasefire, hostage release talks: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>A report by AFP citing witnesses said tanks were seen surrounding the hospital site. According to Israeli media reports, the troops have taken control of Al-Shifa and detained 80 people.</p>

<h2><strong>Around 30,000 trapped: Gaza health ministry</strong></h2>

<p>The Gaza health ministry released a statement calling on international organisations to “immediately stop this massacre against the sick, the wounded, the displaced, and the medical staff inside Al-Shifa Hospital”.</p>

<p>According to the Hamas-run ministry, around 30,000 people, including displaced civilians and medical staff were trapped inside the hospital amid the Israeli raid and called it “a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law.”</p>

<h2><strong>‘High-precision operation’</strong></h2>

<p>Amid reports about the Israeli raid, IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari released a statement claiming that the hospital is being used by “senior Hamas terrorists to conduct and promote terrorist activity.”</p>

<p>The IDF conducted the raid following “concrete intelligence that demanded immediate action. We know senior Hamas terrorists have regrouped inside the Shifa hospital and are using it to command attacks against Israel,” said Hagari.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli military also claimed that Hamas gunmen opened fire on them from inside the hospital “during the encirclement”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-germanys-olaf-scholz-says-we-need-temporary-ceasefire-very-quickly-701262">Israel-Hamas war: Germany's Olaf Scholz says, 'We need temporary ceasefire very quickly'</a></strong></p>

<p>The Gaza health ministry has since dismissed the allegations calling them “fabricated narratives to deceive the world” to justify the storming of Al-Shifa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Monday’s raid comes after the Israeli army carried out a similar&nbsp;operation in November at the hospital complex which sparked an international outcry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>


Israeli forces have launched an overnight raid at Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa with reports of tanks and heavy gunfire triggering panic inside the medical complex.

Israeli forces have launched an overnight raid at Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa with reports of tanks and heavy gunfire triggering panic inside the medical complex. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the raid and said that troops were conducting a “high-precision operation in limited areas” of the hospital. What we know about the Al-Shifa raid The Israeli forces reportedly raided the largest hospital in the besieged Palestinian enclave, early Monday (Mar 18) for the fourth time since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas triggered by the militant group’s attack on southern Israel on October 7. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war: UN says Gaza hunger crisis worsening Israeli army vehicles were stationed inside Al-Shifa’s courtyard and its forces launched missiles and opened fire at the hospital’s specialised surgery building, said the Hamas-run health ministry, in a statement on Telegram. It also reported that dozens of Palestinians were seen fleeing the compound, where hundreds of displaced people, patients and medical staff had been taking shelter amid the ongoing war. The raid, according to the ministry, began around 2:00 am (local time) and resulted in a “number of martyrs and wounded”. Meanwhile, Gaza’s government media office said Israeli troops along with tanks and drones launched the offensive and began shooting inside the complex. Also Read | Israeli delegation to head to Doha for temporary Gaza ceasefire, hostage release talks: Reports A report by AFP citing witnesses said tanks were seen surrounding the hospital site. According to Israeli media reports, the troops have taken control of Al-Shifa and detained 80 people. Around 30,000 trapped: Gaza health ministry The Gaza health ministry released a statement calling on international organisations to “immediately stop this massacre against the sick, the wounded, the displaced, and the medical staff inside Al-Shifa Hospital”. According to the Hamas-run ministry, around 30,000 people, including displaced civilians and medical staff were trapped inside the hospital amid the Israeli raid and called it “a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law.” ‘High-precision operation’ Amid reports about the Israeli raid, IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari released a statement claiming that the hospital is being used by “senior Hamas terrorists to conduct and promote terrorist activity.” The IDF conducted the raid following “concrete intelligence that demanded immediate action. We know senior Hamas terrorists have regrouped inside the Shifa hospital and are using it to command attacks against Israel,” said Hagari. The Israeli military also claimed that Hamas gunmen opened fire on them from inside the hospital “during the encirclement”. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Germany's Olaf Scholz says, 'We need temporary ceasefire very quickly' The Gaza health ministry has since dismissed the allegations calling them “fabricated narratives to deceive the world” to justify the storming of Al-Shifa. Monday’s raid comes after the Israeli army carried out a similar operation in November at the hospital complex which sparked an international outcry. (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 forces launch raid at Gaza’s Al-Shifa hospital, several casualties reported

<p>German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called for a temporary ceasefire on Sunday (Mar 17) as the crisis continues to deepen in the war-ravaged region of Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scholz said that he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the need to provide comprehensive humanitarian aid to the people in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a joint press appearance in Jerusalem with Netanyahu, Scholz said, "We need a hostage deal with a longer-lasting ceasefire."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-asks-friends-in-international-community-did-you-already-forget-oct-7-701132">Netanyahu asks ‘friends’ in international community: ‘Did you already forget Oct 7?’</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"We understand the hostage families who say after more than five months 'the time has come for a comprehensive hostage deal for saving those who are still captive.'"&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scholz also said that he had shared his concerns about the high number of civilian casualties and insufficient aid reaching Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The German leader's comments were quite rare as he has often underscored Israel's right to defend itself after the October 7 assault on the country that killed 1,200 people, according to Israeli tallies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scholz's visit to Jordan and Israel came after Israel approved a plan to strike Rafah, a city on the southern fringe of the devastated Palestinian enclave where more than half of its 2.3 million residents have sought refuge in the&nbsp;five months of conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-walks-for-ceasefire-talks-after-hamas-steps-back-on-key-demands-700960">Gaza war: Israel walks for ceasefire talks after Hamas steps back on key demands</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israeli PM Netanyahu says, Rafah operation will take place</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>'Gaza is facing famine'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for a rapid ceasefire as she said on Sunday that Gaza was facing famine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are all extremely concerned about the war in Gaza and the unfolding catastrophic humanitarian situation. Gaza is facing famine, and we cannot accept this. It is critical to achieve an agreement on a ceasefire rapidly now that frees the hostages and allows more humanitarian aid to reach Gaza," she told reporters, speaking in Cairo after signing a strategic partnership agreement with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While recalling the previous ceasefire, she praised al-Sisi, stating, "I commend you for your personal efforts Mr President to broker such a ceasefire and we're also very concerned about the risks (that) a full-scale offensive in Rafah would have on the vulnerable civilian population. This needs to be avoided at all costs."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sisi said that Egypt and European leaders have agreed to reject an Israeli military operation in Rafah.&nbsp;</p>


German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called for a temporary ceasefire on Sunday (Mar 17) as the crisis continues to deepen in the war-ravaged region of Gaza. Scholz said that he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the need to provide comprehensive humanitarian aid to the people in Gaza.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called for a temporary ceasefire on Sunday (Mar 17) as the crisis continues to deepen in the war-ravaged region of Gaza. Scholz said that he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the need to provide comprehensive humanitarian aid to the people in Gaza. During a joint press appearance in Jerusalem with Netanyahu, Scholz said, "We need a hostage deal with a longer-lasting ceasefire." Also read: Netanyahu asks ‘friends’ in international community: ‘Did you already forget Oct 7?’ "We understand the hostage families who say after more than five months 'the time has come for a comprehensive hostage deal for saving those who are still captive.'" Scholz also said that he had shared his concerns about the high number of civilian casualties and insufficient aid reaching Gaza. The German leader's comments were quite rare as he has often underscored Israel's right to defend itself after the October 7 assault on the country that killed 1,200 people, according to Israeli tallies. Scholz's visit to Jordan and Israel came after Israel approved a plan to strike Rafah, a city on the southern fringe of the devastated Palestinian enclave where more than half of its 2.3 million residents have sought refuge in the five months of conflict. Also read: Gaza war: Israel walks for ceasefire talks after Hamas steps back on key demands Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu says, Rafah operation will take place × 'Gaza is facing famine' Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for a rapid ceasefire as she said on Sunday that Gaza was facing famine. "We are all extremely concerned about the war in Gaza and the unfolding catastrophic humanitarian situation. Gaza is facing famine, and we cannot accept this. It is critical to achieve an agreement on a ceasefire rapidly now that frees the hostages and allows more humanitarian aid to reach Gaza," she told reporters, speaking in Cairo after signing a strategic partnership agreement with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. While recalling the previous ceasefire, she praised al-Sisi, stating, "I commend you for your personal efforts Mr President to broker such a ceasefire and we're also very concerned about the risks (that) a full-scale offensive in Rafah would have on the vulnerable civilian population. This needs to be avoided at all costs." Sisi said that Egypt and European leaders have agreed to reject an Israeli military operation in Rafah.

Israel-Hamas war: Germany's Olaf Scholz says 'we need temporary ceasefire very quickly'

<p>United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (Mar 15) praised Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s speech criticising Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and&nbsp;calling&nbsp;for new elections in Israel. The speech has since garnered criticism from Israeli officials and the country’s media with some calling it a “watershed” moment for relations between Tel Aviv and Washington.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Good speech’</strong></h2>

<p>“He made a good speech, and I think he expressed serious concern shared not only by him, but by many Americans,” said the US president during a meeting with the Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar in the Oval Office, when asked about the Democratic Senator’s speech.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel war: Tensions between US, Israel over Gaza war</strong></p>

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<p>The White House had been notified about the remarks Schumer would make on the Senate floor. “Senator Schumer contacted my staff, my senior staffer, that he was going to make that speech,” said the US president. However, Biden refused to elaborate further on the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Schumer, the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in the US, called Netanyahu a “major obstacle to peace,” and said how he has lost his way by prioritising his “political survival” over the “best interests of Israel.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-approves-potential-assault-on-rafah-but-keeps-truce-hopes-alive-700608">Israel-Hamas war: Israel approves potential assault on Rafah as first aid ship reaches Gaza shore</a></strong></p>

<p>“He has been too willing to tolerate the civilian toll in Gaza, which is pushing support for Israel worldwide to historic lows,” said the Senate majority leader in a speech, on Thursday (Mar 14), adding that “Israel cannot survive if it becomes a pariah.”</p>

<p>Schumer also called for a “new election once the war starts to wind down.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that if Netanyahu does not step down after the war and “continues to pursue dangerous and inflammatory policies” the US would have “no choice” but to “play a more active role in shaping Israeli policy by using our leverage to change the present course.”</p>

<p>The US president has supported Israel’s right to defend itself after the October 7 attack by the Palestinian militant group, Hamas in southern Israel. However, Biden, ahead of the presidential election in November is facing growing backlash from Democrats as well as many in the US calling for a ceasefire amid the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Israeli officials fume over Schumer’s speech</h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Senate majority leader’s speech has sparked outrage in Israel. The country's&nbsp;newspaper Haaretz described the speech as a “watershed” moment. While several Israeli officials warned the US over meddling in the country’s internal politics.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schumer-calls-for-new-leadership-in-israel-says-significant-course-corrections-needed-for-peace-700183">Chuck Schumer calls for replacing Israel's Netnyahu, says 'significant course corrections' needed for peace</a></strong></p>

<p>Netanyahu’s Likud party in a statement asked Schumer not to “undermine” Israel’s elected government calling the country “an independent, proud democracy that elected Prime Minister Netanyahu.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Israel is a sovereign democracy,” said Israeli Ambassador to the US Michael Herzog. He added, “It is unhelpful, all the more so as Israel is at war against the genocidal terror organization Hamas, to comment on the domestic political scene of a democratic ally. It is counterproductive to our common goals.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (Mar 15) praised Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s speech criticising Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and calling for new elections in Israel.

United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (Mar 15) praised Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s speech criticising Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and calling for new elections in Israel. The speech has since garnered criticism from Israeli officials and the country’s media with some calling it a “watershed” moment for relations between Tel Aviv and Washington. ‘Good speech’ “He made a good speech, and I think he expressed serious concern shared not only by him, but by many Americans,” said the US president during a meeting with the Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar in the Oval Office, when asked about the Democratic Senator’s speech. WATCH | Israel war: Tensions between US, Israel over Gaza war The White House had been notified about the remarks Schumer would make on the Senate floor. “Senator Schumer contacted my staff, my senior staffer, that he was going to make that speech,” said the US president. However, Biden refused to elaborate further on the matter. Schumer, the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in the US, called Netanyahu a “major obstacle to peace,” and said how he has lost his way by prioritising his “political survival” over the “best interests of Israel.” Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Israel approves potential assault on Rafah as first aid ship reaches Gaza shore “He has been too willing to tolerate the civilian toll in Gaza, which is pushing support for Israel worldwide to historic lows,” said the Senate majority leader in a speech, on Thursday (Mar 14), adding that “Israel cannot survive if it becomes a pariah.” Schumer also called for a “new election once the war starts to wind down.” He added that if Netanyahu does not step down after the war and “continues to pursue dangerous and inflammatory policies” the US would have “no choice” but to “play a more active role in shaping Israeli policy by using our leverage to change the present course.” The US president has supported Israel’s right to defend itself after the October 7 attack by the Palestinian militant group, Hamas in southern Israel. However, Biden, ahead of the presidential election in November is facing growing backlash from Democrats as well as many in the US calling for a ceasefire amid the ongoing war in Gaza. Israeli officials fume over Schumer’s speech Meanwhile, the Senate majority leader’s speech has sparked outrage in Israel. The country's newspaper Haaretz described the speech as a “watershed” moment. While several Israeli officials warned the US over meddling in the country’s internal politics. Also Read | Chuck Schumer calls for replacing Israel's Netnyahu, says 'significant course corrections' needed for peace Netanyahu’s Likud party in a statement asked Schumer not to “undermine” Israel’s elected government calling the country “an independent, proud democracy that elected Prime Minister Netanyahu.” “Israel is a sovereign democracy,” said Israeli Ambassador to the US Michael Herzog. He added, “It is unhelpful, all the more so as Israel is at war against the genocidal terror organization Hamas, to comment on the domestic political scene of a democratic ally. It is counterproductive to our common goals.” (With inputs from agencies)

Biden praises Schumer’s ‘anti-Netanyahu’ speech calling for new elections, Israel fumes over remarks

<p>Israel on Friday (Mar 15) approved a potential assault on the city of Rafah, but&nbsp;also kept ceasefire hopes alive with plans to send another delegation to Qatar for talks on a possible hostage deal with Hamas. A statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said that Hamas' demands for the release of hostages remained unrealistic, but an Israeli delegation would still head to Qatar's capital Doha once the security cabinet had discussed its position.</p>

<p>The statement added that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were preparing operationally and for the evacuation of the population of Rafah.&nbsp;Israel's remarks come as the first ship towing a barge loaded with aid arrived on the Gaza shore. The ship is in a test run for a new aid route by sea from Cyprus into the devastated Palestinian territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ship, arranged by the World Central Kitchen (WCK) charity, was carrying nearly 200 tonnes of aid to be delivered via a jetty being prepared in Gaza. A second ship is expected to sail soon.</p>

<h2><strong>Hamas presents new ceasefire proposal</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday, Hamas presented a ceasefire proposal in Gaza to mediators and the United States (US). A report by the news agency Reuters said that the proposal includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for freedom of Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hamas-issues-ceasefire-proposal-to-mediators-those-to-be-released-include-israeli-female-recruits-700365">Hamas presents ceasefire proposal to mediators, Netanyahu govt dismisses it as 'unrealistic'</a></strong></p>

<p>Hamas said that the initial release of Israelis would include women, children, elderly, and ill hostages in exchange for the release of 700-1000 Palestinian prisoners.</p>

<p>Israel, however, said that the new Hamas position was based on "unrealistic" demands.</p>

<p>Israel's global allies have urged Netanyahu to hold off attacking Rafah, fearing mass civilian casualties. However, Israel has said that it is one of the last strongholds of Hamas whom it has pledged to eliminate, and that residents will be evacuated.</p>

<p>More than half of Gaza's 2.3 million residents are sheltering in Rafah after five months of the conflict, Reuters reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel to direct Palestinians out of Rafah ahead of offensive</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>UN's warning on Israeli offensive in Rafah</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday, the United Nations (UN) warned that the consequences of an Israeli ground operation in Rafah would be “catastrophic."</p>

<p>"I think the consequences of a ground operation in Rafah in the current circumstances would be catastrophic for the people of Gaza, for the Palestinians. It would be catastrophic for the humanitarian situation. It would be catastrophic all around. We very much hope that all of this can be avoided," UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said.</p>

<p>"We understand there's negotiations are still going on and we continue to hope that we will find, that the parties will find, a way to a ceasefire and to ensure the greater humanitarian access, to ensure the release of all the hostages held by Hamas and others in Gaza. And frankly, to open up a way forward for the people of Palestine and the people of Israel," Dujarric added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israel on Friday (Mar 15) approved a potential assault on the city of Rafah, but also kept ceasefire hopes alive with plans to send another delegation to Qatar for talks on a possible hostage deal with Hamas.

Israel on Friday (Mar 15) approved a potential assault on the city of Rafah, but also kept ceasefire hopes alive with plans to send another delegation to Qatar for talks on a possible hostage deal with Hamas. A statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said that Hamas' demands for the release of hostages remained unrealistic, but an Israeli delegation would still head to Qatar's capital Doha once the security cabinet had discussed its position. The statement added that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were preparing operationally and for the evacuation of the population of Rafah. Israel's remarks come as the first ship towing a barge loaded with aid arrived on the Gaza shore. The ship is in a test run for a new aid route by sea from Cyprus into the devastated Palestinian territory. The ship, arranged by the World Central Kitchen (WCK) charity, was carrying nearly 200 tonnes of aid to be delivered via a jetty being prepared in Gaza. A second ship is expected to sail soon. Hamas presents new ceasefire proposal On Friday, Hamas presented a ceasefire proposal in Gaza to mediators and the United States (US). A report by the news agency Reuters said that the proposal includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for freedom of Palestinian prisoners. Also read | Hamas presents ceasefire proposal to mediators, Netanyahu govt dismisses it as 'unrealistic' Hamas said that the initial release of Israelis would include women, children, elderly, and ill hostages in exchange for the release of 700-1000 Palestinian prisoners. Israel, however, said that the new Hamas position was based on "unrealistic" demands. Israel's global allies have urged Netanyahu to hold off attacking Rafah, fearing mass civilian casualties. However, Israel has said that it is one of the last strongholds of Hamas whom it has pledged to eliminate, and that residents will be evacuated. More than half of Gaza's 2.3 million residents are sheltering in Rafah after five months of the conflict, Reuters reported. Also watch | Israel to direct Palestinians out of Rafah ahead of offensive × UN's warning on Israeli offensive in Rafah On Friday, the United Nations (UN) warned that the consequences of an Israeli ground operation in Rafah would be “catastrophic." "I think the consequences of a ground operation in Rafah in the current circumstances would be catastrophic for the people of Gaza, for the Palestinians. It would be catastrophic for the humanitarian situation. It would be catastrophic all around. We very much hope that all of this can be avoided," UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said. "We understand there's negotiations are still going on and we continue to hope that we will find, that the parties will find, a way to a ceasefire and to ensure the greater humanitarian access, to ensure the release of all the hostages held by Hamas and others in Gaza. And frankly, to open up a way forward for the people of Palestine and the people of Israel," Dujarric added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu approves Rafah offensive plan as first ship with aid reaches Gaza shore

<p>The head of Israeli intelligence is expected to lead ceasefire talks with mediators which resume in Qatar on Sunday (March 16) in direct response to a new proposal from Hamas, a source close to the talks told Reuters on Saturday (March 15).</p>

<p>The talks between Mossad head David Barnea, Qatar’s prime minister and Egyptian officials will focus on remaining gaps between Israel and Hamas including over prisoner releases and humanitarian aid, the source said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hamas-issues-ceasefire-proposal-to-mediators-those-to-be-released-include-israeli-female-recruits-700365" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hamas-issues-ceasefire-proposal-to-mediators-those-to-be-released-include-israeli-female-recruits-700365&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiUyIPNqfmEAxW5bWwGHR_1AkUQFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0AXemKDhtuXhb84myB7Mo_&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hamas-issues-ceasefire-proposal-to-mediators-those-to-be-released-include-israeli-female-recruits-700365" target="_blank"><b>Gaza</b>&nbsp;war: Hamas presents&nbsp;<b>ceasefire</b>&nbsp;proposal to mediators</a></p>

<p>Israel had said on Friday (March 14) it would be sending a delegation to Doha, but did not spell out when it would do so or who would take part. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was expected to convene the security cabinet before the talks.</p>

<p>Israeli officials were not immediately available to comment on Saturday, the Jewish Sabbath.</p>

<p>Barnea was involved in previous significant pushes for a deal. A short-lived truce in November was agreed and came into effect after his participation in talks in Doha. His last meeting with Qatar's prime minister in January led to a proposal for a temporary ceasefire that Hamas ultimately rejected.</p>

<p>Hamas this week presented a new ceasefire proposal to mediators and Israel's ally the United States that includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for freedom for Palestinian prisoners.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/ramadan-begins-without-ceasefire-what-it-means-for-gaza-and-rest-of-region-top-points-698717" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/ramadan-begins-without-ceasefire-what-it-means-for-gaza-and-rest-of-region-top-points-698717&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiUyIPNqfmEAxW5bWwGHR_1AkUQFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2pikuHAdANBl3xuv9SuQZd&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ramadan-begins-without-ceasefire-what-it-means-for-gaza-and-rest-of-region-top-points-698717" target="_blank">Ramadan begins without&nbsp;<b>ceasefire</b>: What it means for&nbsp;<b>Gaza</b></a></p>

<p>Repeated efforts to agree a ceasefire and exchange hostages for prisoners have fallen apart this year, despite mounting international pressure over the human cost of Israel's ground and air assault in Gaza.</p>

<p>The war began on October&nbsp;7 when Hamas sent fighters into Israel, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and seizing 253 hostages according to Israeli tallies.</p>

<p>Israel's military campaign has killed more than 31,500 Palestinians, about 70% of them women and children, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.</p>


The head of Israeli intelligence is expected to lead ceasefire talks with mediators which resume in Qatar on Sunday (March 16) in direct response to a new proposal from Hamas, a source close to the talks told Reuters on Saturday (March 15).

The head of Israeli intelligence is expected to lead ceasefire talks with mediators which resume in Qatar on Sunday (March 16) in direct response to a new proposal from Hamas, a source close to the talks told Reuters on Saturday (March 15). The talks between Mossad head David Barnea, Qatar’s prime minister and Egyptian officials will focus on remaining gaps between Israel and Hamas including over prisoner releases and humanitarian aid, the source said. Also read: Gaza war: Hamas presents ceasefire proposal to mediators Israel had said on Friday (March 14) it would be sending a delegation to Doha, but did not spell out when it would do so or who would take part. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was expected to convene the security cabinet before the talks. Israeli officials were not immediately available to comment on Saturday, the Jewish Sabbath. Barnea was involved in previous significant pushes for a deal. A short-lived truce in November was agreed and came into effect after his participation in talks in Doha. His last meeting with Qatar's prime minister in January led to a proposal for a temporary ceasefire that Hamas ultimately rejected. Hamas this week presented a new ceasefire proposal to mediators and Israel's ally the United States that includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for freedom for Palestinian prisoners. Also read: Ramadan begins without ceasefire: What it means for Gaza Repeated efforts to agree a ceasefire and exchange hostages for prisoners have fallen apart this year, despite mounting international pressure over the human cost of Israel's ground and air assault in Gaza. The war began on October 7 when Hamas sent fighters into Israel, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and seizing 253 hostages according to Israeli tallies. Israel's military campaign has killed more than 31,500 Palestinians, about 70% of them women and children, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.

Mossad chief expected to lead Gaza ceasefire talks in Doha on Sunday

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Mar 17) slammed the international community for their stand against the war and also trying to stop the war now before Israel "achieves" all of its goals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu's remarks came after last week US Senator Chuck Schumer called for elections in Israel and said that the prime minister is a major obstacle to peace in the Middle East.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid international pressure over war, especially for a ceasefire during the festive period of Ramadan, Netanyahu asked the world, "Did you already forget October 7?"&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-walks-for-ceasefire-talks-after-hamas-steps-back-on-key-demands-700960">Gaza war: Israel walks for ceasefire talks after Hamas steps back on key demands</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>At the start of his cabinet meeting, Netanyahu said, "To our friends in the international community I say: Is your memory so short? So quickly you forgot about October&nbsp;7, the worst massacre committed against Jews since the Holocaust?"&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So quickly you are ready to deny Israel the right to defend itself against the monsters of Hamas?," he added.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In response to Senator Chuck Schumer’s call for his replacement, Netanyahu said&nbsp;that the Jewish legislator is not “opposing me, he’s opposing the people of Israel” and&nbsp;called&nbsp; Schumer’s speech “totally inappropriate.”</p>

<p>“You don’t do that to a sister democracy,” says Netanyahu. Netanyahu insists that Israel is doing everything it can to allow aid into Gaza, but the “problem is that once trucks get in, they’re looted by Hamas and gangs.”</p>

<p>On October 7, the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, killing about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, according to official Israeli figures. Hamas had also taken some 250 people hostage. Some of them were later returned as part of a deal in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-it-destroyed-houthi-drone-over-red-sea-to-protect-freedom-of-navigation-700968">US says it destroyed Houthi drone over red sea 'to protect freedom of navigation'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Israeli government responded with the launch of 'Operation Swords of Iron' and responded with strikes and ground incursions on Gaza that have killed more than 30,000 people, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recalling the terrors of October 7, Netanyahu said at a government meeting in Jerusalem that "since the beginning of the war, we are fighting on two fronts – the military front and the diplomatic front."</p>

<p>"It's no secret that international pressure against us is increasing," he said, further adding that Israel "must not give in to this pressure".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Gaza ceasefire hopes rise after Hamas abandons key demands</strong></p>

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<p>He added that some in the international community are trying to stop the war "by making false accusations against the IDF, against the Israeli government and against the prime minister of Israel."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu reiterated that Israel would push on with its offensive in Gaza, including in the city of Rafah, while evacuating civilians from combat zones.</p>

<p>He said that in order to "fight" till the end, Israel will operate in Rafah: "It's the only way to eliminate what remains of Hamas' legions of murderers, and the only way to exert military pressure required to bring about the release of our loved ones."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>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;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Mar 17) slammed the international community for their stand against the war and also trying to stop the war now before Israel "achieves" all of its goals.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Mar 17) slammed the international community for their stand against the war and also trying to stop the war now before Israel "achieves" all of its goals. Netanyahu's remarks came after last week US Senator Chuck Schumer called for elections in Israel and said that the prime minister is a major obstacle to peace in the Middle East. Amid international pressure over war, especially for a ceasefire during the festive period of Ramadan, Netanyahu asked the world, "Did you already forget October 7?" Also read: Gaza war: Israel walks for ceasefire talks after Hamas steps back on key demands At the start of his cabinet meeting, Netanyahu said, "To our friends in the international community I say: Is your memory so short? So quickly you forgot about October 7, the worst massacre committed against Jews since the Holocaust?" "So quickly you are ready to deny Israel the right to defend itself against the monsters of Hamas?," he added. In response to Senator Chuck Schumer’s call for his replacement, Netanyahu said that the Jewish legislator is not “opposing me, he’s opposing the people of Israel” and called Schumer’s speech “totally inappropriate.” “You don’t do that to a sister democracy,” says Netanyahu. Netanyahu insists that Israel is doing everything it can to allow aid into Gaza, but the “problem is that once trucks get in, they’re looted by Hamas and gangs.” On October 7, the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, killing about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, according to official Israeli figures. Hamas had also taken some 250 people hostage. Some of them were later returned as part of a deal in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Also read: US says it destroyed Houthi drone over red sea 'to protect freedom of navigation' The Israeli government responded with the launch of 'Operation Swords of Iron' and responded with strikes and ground incursions on Gaza that have killed more than 30,000 people, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. Recalling the terrors of October 7, Netanyahu said at a government meeting in Jerusalem that "since the beginning of the war, we are fighting on two fronts – the military front and the diplomatic front." "It's no secret that international pressure against us is increasing," he said, further adding that Israel "must not give in to this pressure". Watch: Gaza ceasefire hopes rise after Hamas abandons key demands × He added that some in the international community are trying to stop the war "by making false accusations against the IDF, against the Israeli government and against the prime minister of Israel." Netanyahu reiterated that Israel would push on with its offensive in Gaza, including in the city of Rafah, while evacuating civilians from combat zones. He said that in order to "fight" till the end, Israel will operate in Rafah: "It's the only way to eliminate what remains of Hamas' legions of murderers, and the only way to exert military pressure required to bring about the release of our loved ones." 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)

Netanyahu asks ‘friends’ in international community: ‘Did you already forget Oct 7?’

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Voting continues on third & final day of Presidential Polls in Russia. India's Enforcement Directorate issues summons to Delhi CM. Israel rocked by protests as slogans for fresh elections & new hostage deal echo Tel Aviv. Mossad Chief heads to Qatar for hostage-truce deal talks. US & Jordan conduct joint airdrop to Gaza. Watch to know more!

Russia Election 2024: Voting continues on third & final day of Presidential Polls

Palestinians in Gaza are holding the prayers of Ramadan outside the ruins of a mosque leveled in Israel's offensive. On Friday scores of worshippers knelt in rows in the street by the wreckage of the Al Farooq Mosque in Rafah, it is one of hundreds the Hamas run authorities say have been damaged or destroyed in Israeli attacks since the 7th of October. Watch to know more!

Gazans hold Ramadan prayers: People praying in tents, damaged mosques & streets | Israel war

<p>The Palestinian health ministry said that at least 29 people were killed and more than 150 injured in the Gaza Strip in two separate attacks by Israel while they were waiting for aid on Thursday (Mar 14). In the first incident, eight people were killed and later at least 21 people were killed and more than 150 wounded, the health ministry added. Israel's military denied attacking the aid centres.</p>

<p>A dozen African nations were ‘severely’ impacted after several operators on Thursday reported failures in undersea internet cable networks. The cause of the disruption was not immediately clear.</p>

<p>In other news from around the world, former US president and current presidential frontrunner Donald Trump's latest bid&nbsp;to have the criminal charges for illegally holding onto classified government documents dismissed was rejected by a federal judge on Thursday.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-accuses-israel-of-killing-29-gazans-waiting-for-aid-tel-aviv-denies-attacks-700248"><strong>Hamas accuses Israel of killing 29 Gazans waiting for aid, Tel Aviv denies attacks</strong></a></p>

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<p>At least 29 people were killed and more than 150 injured in the Gaza Strip in two separate attacks by Israel while they were waiting for aid, said the health ministry of Hamas-ruled Gaza.&nbsp;In the first firing, eight people were killed after Israeli forces carried out an airstrike on Al-Nuseirat camp's aid distribution centre in the central Gaza Strip, said Palestinian health officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/internet-outages-spike-in-west-africa-amid-reports-of-subsea-cable-disruptions-700243"><strong>Internet outages spike in West Africa amid reports of subsea cable disruptions</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/15/418558-rsz1underseacablecut.jpeg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>At least a dozen African nations were ‘severely’ impacted after several operators on Thursday (Mar 14) reported failures in undersea internet cable networks. The cause of the disruption was not immediately clear but experts said it pointed to ‘something larger’.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-bid-to-dismiss-charges-over-classified-us-documents-denied-by-judge-he-appointed-700233"><strong>Trump's bid to dismiss charges over classified US documents denied by judge he appointed</strong></a></p>

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<p>Donald Trump's latest bid to have the criminal charges for illegally holding onto classified government documents dismissed was rejected by a federal judge on Thursday (Mar 14).&nbsp;Donald Trump had asked the judge to dismiss the indictment against him on several fronts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/michigan-school-shooters-father-held-accountable-for-sons-crime-convicted-on-manslaughter-charges-700252"><strong>Michigan school shooter's father held accountable for son's crime, convicted on manslaughter charges</strong></a></p>

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<p>In a landmark verdict, a Michigan jury on Thursday (March 14) convicted a father of manslaughter over the crimes of his child.&nbsp;James Crumbley, the father of a teenager who in 2021 killed four of his classmates in a mass shooting, has been found guilty after his wife Jennifer Crumbley was found culpable in a similar trial in February.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian elections 2024: Who is on and off the ballot in Russia?</strong></p>

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The Palestinian health ministry said that at least 29 people were killed and more than 150 injured in the Gaza Strip in two separate attacks by Israel while they were waiting for aid on Thursday (Mar 14).

The Palestinian health ministry said that at least 29 people were killed and more than 150 injured in the Gaza Strip in two separate attacks by Israel while they were waiting for aid on Thursday (Mar 14). In the first incident, eight people were killed and later at least 21 people were killed and more than 150 wounded, the health ministry added. Israel's military denied attacking the aid centres. A dozen African nations were ‘severely’ impacted after several operators on Thursday reported failures in undersea internet cable networks. The cause of the disruption was not immediately clear. In other news from around the world, former US president and current presidential frontrunner Donald Trump's latest bid to have the criminal charges for illegally holding onto classified government documents dismissed was rejected by a federal judge on Thursday. Click on the headlines to read more: Hamas accuses Israel of killing 29 Gazans waiting for aid, Tel Aviv denies attacks At least 29 people were killed and more than 150 injured in the Gaza Strip in two separate attacks by Israel while they were waiting for aid, said the health ministry of Hamas-ruled Gaza. In the first firing, eight people were killed after Israeli forces carried out an airstrike on Al-Nuseirat camp's aid distribution centre in the central Gaza Strip, said Palestinian health officials. Internet outages spike in West Africa amid reports of subsea cable disruptions At least a dozen African nations were ‘severely’ impacted after several operators on Thursday (Mar 14) reported failures in undersea internet cable networks. The cause of the disruption was not immediately clear but experts said it pointed to ‘something larger’. Trump's bid to dismiss charges over classified US documents denied by judge he appointed Donald Trump's latest bid to have the criminal charges for illegally holding onto classified government documents dismissed was rejected by a federal judge on Thursday (Mar 14). Donald Trump had asked the judge to dismiss the indictment against him on several fronts. Michigan school shooter's father held accountable for son's crime, convicted on manslaughter charges In a landmark verdict, a Michigan jury on Thursday (March 14) convicted a father of manslaughter over the crimes of his child. James Crumbley, the father of a teenager who in 2021 killed four of his classmates in a mass shooting, has been found guilty after his wife Jennifer Crumbley was found culpable in a similar trial in February. Watch | Russian elections 2024: Who is on and off the ballot in Russia? ×

Morning brief: Hamas accuses Israel of killing 29 Gazans awaiting aid; internet outages in West Africa, & more

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidqn3BYjBbgSES" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The US State Department said on Thursday (Mar 14) that Senate Majority Leader <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schumer-calls-for-new-leadership-in-israel-says-significant-course-corrections-needed-for-peace-700183">Chuck Schumer's comments calling for new elections in Israel </a></strong>were his and not of the Joe Biden administration. Earlier in the day, Schumer, a Democrat, criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by calling him an obstacle to peace. Schumer told the Senate that Netanyahu's government "no longer fits the needs of Israel" five months into a war that began with attacks on Israel by Hamas on October 7 last year.</p>

<p>Addressing a press conference, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, "Congress is an independent branch of government. I think the government of Israel understands quite well how the US government works. They interact quite frequently, not just with members of the Executive Branch, but with members of Congress, including Senator Schumer, who has travelled to Israel a number of times over the years, and I'm sure they fully understand that he speaks for himself."</p>

<p>On being asked if there was suspicion&nbsp;that Schumer was putting out publicly what had been said privately, Miller said, "These are statements made by Senator Schumer. Not by the Biden Administration."</p>

<h2><strong>Schumer faces backlash for remarks</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from calling for fresh elections in Israel, Schumer also said it would be a "grave mistake" for Israel to reject a two-state solution and urged negotiators in the Gaza war to do everything possible to secure a ceasefire, free hostages, and get aid into the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-starvation-being-used-as-a-weapon-says-eu-official-699731">Israel-Hamas war: Starvation being used as a weapon, says EU foreign policy chief</a></strong></p>

<p>The Democrat faced backlash for his remarks, with Israeli PM Netanyahu's Likud party saying that Israel was not a banana republic and that Netanyahu's policy had wide public support.</p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the Likud said in a statement, "Contrary to Schumer's words, the Israeli public supports a total victory over Hamas, rejects any international diktats&nbsp;to establish a Palestinian terrorist state, and opposes the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel urges UNSC to pressure Hamas on hostage release</strong></p>

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<p>"Senator Schumer is expected to respect Israel's elected government and not undermine it. This is always true, and even more so in wartime," the statement added.</p>

<p>The Senate's Republican leader Mitch McConnell also criticised Schumer's remarks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is grotesque... and hypocritical... for Americans who hyperventilate about foreign interference in our own democracy to call for the removal of the democratically elected leader of Israel. This is unprecedented," McConnell said.</p>

<p>Since the conflict began, prominent Democrats, including President Joe Biden have been facing intense criticism from within the party over the US' unconditional support for Israel, given the impact on Palestinian civilians of Israel's offensive in Gaza.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>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.</em></strong></p>


The US State Department said on Thursday (Mar 14) that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's comments calling for new elections in Israel were his and not of the Joe Biden administration.

The US State Department said on Thursday (Mar 14) that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's comments calling for new elections in Israel were his and not of the Joe Biden administration. Earlier in the day, Schumer, a Democrat, criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by calling him an obstacle to peace. Schumer told the Senate that Netanyahu's government "no longer fits the needs of Israel" five months into a war that began with attacks on Israel by Hamas on October 7 last year. Addressing a press conference, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, "Congress is an independent branch of government. I think the government of Israel understands quite well how the US government works. They interact quite frequently, not just with members of the Executive Branch, but with members of Congress, including Senator Schumer, who has travelled to Israel a number of times over the years, and I'm sure they fully understand that he speaks for himself." On being asked if there was suspicion that Schumer was putting out publicly what had been said privately, Miller said, "These are statements made by Senator Schumer. Not by the Biden Administration." Schumer faces backlash for remarks Apart from calling for fresh elections in Israel, Schumer also said it would be a "grave mistake" for Israel to reject a two-state solution and urged negotiators in the Gaza war to do everything possible to secure a ceasefire, free hostages, and get aid into the Gaza Strip. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Starvation being used as a weapon, says EU foreign policy chief The Democrat faced backlash for his remarks, with Israeli PM Netanyahu's Likud party saying that Israel was not a banana republic and that Netanyahu's policy had wide public support. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the Likud said in a statement, "Contrary to Schumer's words, the Israeli public supports a total victory over Hamas, rejects any international diktats to establish a Palestinian terrorist state, and opposes the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza." Also watch | Israel urges UNSC to pressure Hamas on hostage release × "Senator Schumer is expected to respect Israel's elected government and not undermine it. This is always true, and even more so in wartime," the statement added. The Senate's Republican leader Mitch McConnell also criticised Schumer's remarks. "It is grotesque... and hypocritical... for Americans who hyperventilate about foreign interference in our own democracy to call for the removal of the democratically elected leader of Israel. This is unprecedented," McConnell said. Since the conflict began, prominent Democrats, including President Joe Biden have been facing intense criticism from within the party over the US' unconditional support for Israel, given the impact on Palestinian civilians of Israel's offensive in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Gaza war: Schumer's comments on Israel PM Netanyahu are his, not US govt's, says State Department

<p>Mohammad Mustafa, a leading business figure, was appointed as the prime minister of the Palestinian Authority (PA) on Thursday (Mar 14). His appointment comes amid mounting international pressure calling for the overhaul and revitalisation of the governing body of the occupied Palestinian territories.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Mohammad Mustafa?</strong></h2>

<p>Mustafa is an ally of President Mahmoud Abbas. He replaces former prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh who, along with his government, resigned in February to pave the way for a unity cabinet.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-report-finds-israels-killing-of-journalist-in-lebanon-a-clear-violation-of-international-law-699846">UN report finds Israel's killing of journalist in Lebanon a clear violation of international law</a></strong></p>

<p>Mustafa is a US-educated economist with a PhD in Business Administration and Economics from George Washington University. He has worked at the World Bank in Washington and has been in charge of Palestinian telecoms company Paltel and, more recently, the PA's public Palestine Investment Fund (PIF).</p>

<p>He is a member of the executive committee of the Abbas-led Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), which recognised Israel at the start of the peace process in 1993, hoping to establish a Palestinian state in territories captured by Israel in a 1967 war - the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem.</p>

<p>As per Reuters, more than a decade ago, after a previous conflict, he helped organise the reconstruction of Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strike-on-car-in-south-lebanon-kills-significant-hamas-member-699735">Israel claims strike on car in south Lebanon kills 'significant' Hamas member</a></strong></p>

<p>Back then, from 2013 to 2014, he served as a deputy prime minister responsible for economic affairs. He was assigned to reform the Palestinian Authority institutions and lead the relief and rebuilding of the area after five months of war.</p>

<h2><strong>The responsibilities Mustafa faces</strong></h2>

<p>Mustafa, as reported by the state-run WAFA news, has been appointed with a mandate to help reform the PA and lead the relief and rebuilding of the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He faces a huge task that includes both management and diplomacy, as the crisis in Gaza escalates every day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, as quoted by Reuters, he expressed hope that Gaza's borders would be opened and a reconstruction conference would convene. On his plans for Gaza, he said he would continue to focus on humanitarian efforts in the short and medium term.</p>

<p>In response to a question about the future role of Hamas, Mustafa stressed that the "best way forward is to be as inclusive as possible" and expressed his wish for Palestinian unity centred on the PLO agenda.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Mohammad Mustafa, a leading business figure, was appointed as the prime minister of the Palestinian Authority (PA) on Thursday (Mar 14). His appointment comes amid mounting international pressure calling for the overhaul and revitalisation of the governing body of the occupied Palestinian territories.

Mohammad Mustafa, a leading business figure, was appointed as the prime minister of the Palestinian Authority (PA) on Thursday (Mar 14). His appointment comes amid mounting international pressure calling for the overhaul and revitalisation of the governing body of the occupied Palestinian territories. Who is Mohammad Mustafa? Mustafa is an ally of President Mahmoud Abbas. He replaces former prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh who, along with his government, resigned in February to pave the way for a unity cabinet. Also read | UN report finds Israel's killing of journalist in Lebanon a clear violation of international law Mustafa is a US-educated economist with a PhD in Business Administration and Economics from George Washington University. He has worked at the World Bank in Washington and has been in charge of Palestinian telecoms company Paltel and, more recently, the PA's public Palestine Investment Fund (PIF). He is a member of the executive committee of the Abbas-led Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), which recognised Israel at the start of the peace process in 1993, hoping to establish a Palestinian state in territories captured by Israel in a 1967 war - the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem. As per Reuters, more than a decade ago, after a previous conflict, he helped organise the reconstruction of Gaza. Also read | Israel claims strike on car in south Lebanon kills 'significant' Hamas member Back then, from 2013 to 2014, he served as a deputy prime minister responsible for economic affairs. He was assigned to reform the Palestinian Authority institutions and lead the relief and rebuilding of the area after five months of war. The responsibilities Mustafa faces Mustafa, as reported by the state-run WAFA news, has been appointed with a mandate to help reform the PA and lead the relief and rebuilding of the Gaza Strip. He faces a huge task that includes both management and diplomacy, as the crisis in Gaza escalates every day. Previously, as quoted by Reuters, he expressed hope that Gaza's borders would be opened and a reconstruction conference would convene. On his plans for Gaza, he said he would continue to focus on humanitarian efforts in the short and medium term. In response to a question about the future role of Hamas, Mustafa stressed that the "best way forward is to be as inclusive as possible" and expressed his wish for Palestinian unity centred on the PLO agenda. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Mohammad Mustafa, the new prime minister of Palestinian Authority?

<p>Gaza health ministry officials claimed on Thursday (Mar 14) that Israeli bombardment killed six Palestinians and wounded dozens as crowds awaited aid trucks in Gaza City.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported by the news agency Reuters, officials said that the Israeli soldiers struck the Kuwait Roundabout in northern Gaza City late Wednesday evening.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The locals and health officials said that the incident happened when the Palestinians were racing to get aid supplies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The violence in Gaza has displaced the majority of the enclave's 2.3 million people, and amid the ongoing conflict, the supply of aid and relief has been chaotic and deadly.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schumer-calls-for-new-leadership-in-israel-says-significant-course-corrections-needed-for-peace-700183">Schumer calls for new leadership in Israel, says 'significant course corrections' needed for peace</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In the absence of food and other basic amenities, people are forced to live in extremely poor conditions, which has become even worse during the festive period of Ramadan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several nations and international organisations have air-dropped tonnes of aid, containing food and medicines, in the Gaza region. However, several incidents of violence have also been reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Palestinian health authorities on February 29 said Israeli forces shot dead more than 100 Palestinians as they waited for an aid delivery near Gaza City. But Israel blamed the deaths on crowds that surrounded aid trucks, saying victims had been trampled or run over.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthi-group-claims-to-have-successfully-tested-hypersonic-missile-700121">Yemen's Houthi group claims to have successfully tested hypersonic missile</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Separately, in Al-Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip, Palestinian health officials said eight people were killed in an Israeli air strike that hit an aid distribution centre on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Authorities said that an Israeli missile hit a house, killing nine people in Deir Al-Balah, also in central Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a second ship carrying food supplies for Gaza was loaded in Cyprus on Thursday, as the first ship in a pilot trial of maritime deliveries approached the besieged Palestinian territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the World Central Kitchen (WCK), it was loading a vessel at Larnaca port with 300 tonnes of food aid - including legumes, canned tuna, vegetables, rice and flour.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US sought foe Iran's help amid red sea crisis?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Abbas appoints Mohammad Mustafa as new PM</strong></h2>

<p>Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas named Mohammad Mustafa as prime minister of the Palestinian Authority (PA), the state-run Palestinian news agency WAFA said on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mustafa's appointment comes after mounting pressure to reform the governing body of the occupied Palestinian territories and improve its governance in the occupied West Bank where they are based.</p>

<p><em><strong>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;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Gaza health ministry officials claimed on Thursday (Mar 14) that Israeli bombardment killed six Palestinians and wounded dozens as crowds awaited aid trucks in Gaza City.

Gaza health ministry officials claimed on Thursday (Mar 14) that Israeli bombardment killed six Palestinians and wounded dozens as crowds awaited aid trucks in Gaza City. As reported by the news agency Reuters, officials said that the Israeli soldiers struck the Kuwait Roundabout in northern Gaza City late Wednesday evening. The locals and health officials said that the incident happened when the Palestinians were racing to get aid supplies. The violence in Gaza has displaced the majority of the enclave's 2.3 million people, and amid the ongoing conflict, the supply of aid and relief has been chaotic and deadly. Also read: Schumer calls for new leadership in Israel, says 'significant course corrections' needed for peace In the absence of food and other basic amenities, people are forced to live in extremely poor conditions, which has become even worse during the festive period of Ramadan. Several nations and international organisations have air-dropped tonnes of aid, containing food and medicines, in the Gaza region. However, several incidents of violence have also been reported. Earlier, Palestinian health authorities on February 29 said Israeli forces shot dead more than 100 Palestinians as they waited for an aid delivery near Gaza City. But Israel blamed the deaths on crowds that surrounded aid trucks, saying victims had been trampled or run over. Also read: Yemen's Houthi group claims to have successfully tested hypersonic missile Separately, in Al-Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip, Palestinian health officials said eight people were killed in an Israeli air strike that hit an aid distribution centre on Thursday. Authorities said that an Israeli missile hit a house, killing nine people in Deir Al-Balah, also in central Gaza. Meanwhile, a second ship carrying food supplies for Gaza was loaded in Cyprus on Thursday, as the first ship in a pilot trial of maritime deliveries approached the besieged Palestinian territory. According to the World Central Kitchen (WCK), it was loading a vessel at Larnaca port with 300 tonnes of food aid - including legumes, canned tuna, vegetables, rice and flour. Watch: US sought foe Iran's help amid red sea crisis? × Abbas appoints Mohammad Mustafa as new PM Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas named Mohammad Mustafa as prime minister of the Palestinian Authority (PA), the state-run Palestinian news agency WAFA said on Thursday. Mustafa's appointment comes after mounting pressure to reform the governing body of the occupied Palestinian territories and improve its governance in the occupied West Bank where they are based. 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)

Palestinian officials claim Israeli strike kills six Gazans awaiting aid

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidMWO7CC6In2BV" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Palestinian militant group Hamas has presented a ceasefire proposal in the war-torn Gaza Strip to the mediators and the United States, the news agency Reuters reported on Friday (Mar 15). The proposal includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for freedom for Palestinian prisoners. As per the report, Hamas said that the initial release of Israelis would include women, children, elderly, and ill hostages in exchange for the release of 700-1000 Palestinian prisoners.</p>

<p>The release of Israeli "female recruits" is included.<br />
<br />
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the new Hamas position was based on "unrealistic demands". Prime Minister Netanyahu&nbsp;downplayed the chances of a truce.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-accuses-israel-of-killing-29-gazans-waiting-for-aid-tel-aviv-denies-attacks-700248">Hamas accuses Israel of killing 29 Gazans waiting for aid, Tel Aviv denies attacks</a></strong></p>

<p>Since the war between Israel and Hamas started on October 7 last year, mediators Egypt and Qatar have been trying to narrow the differences between the warring factions over what a ceasefire should look like.</p>

<h2><strong>The faltering truce talks &amp; the new proposal</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas had said that ceasefire talks faltered over the past few weeks due to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rejection of its demands. The militant group's demands include a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, Israeli withdrawal from the region, the return of the displaced in the south of the enclave to the centre and the north, and stepping up aid without restrictions.</p>

<p>In the latest proposal, Hamas said a date for a permanent ceasefire would be agreed upon after the initial exchange of hostages and prisoners as well as a deadline for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israeli PM Netanyahu meets Army Officers &amp; soldiers, says 'will enter Rafah'</strong></p>

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<p>All detainees from both sides would be released in a second stage of the plan, Reuters further reported.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The previous proposal</strong></h2>

<p>In February, Hamas received a draft proposal from Gaza truce talks in Paris which included a 40-day pause in all military operations and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners for Israeli hostages at a ratio of 10 to one - a similar ratio to the new proposal.</p>

<p>However, the draft proposal was rejected by Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli offensive in Gaza has killed more than 31,000 people and wounded over 71,500, as per the Hamas-run health ministry, and international pressure is mounting to have another ceasefire in the war-torn region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>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.</em></strong></p>


Palestinian militant group Hamas has presented a ceasefire proposal in the war-torn Gaza Strip to the mediators and the United States, the news agency Reuters reported on Friday (Mar 15).

Palestinian militant group Hamas has presented a ceasefire proposal in the war-torn Gaza Strip to the mediators and the United States, the news agency Reuters reported on Friday (Mar 15). The proposal includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for freedom for Palestinian prisoners. As per the report, Hamas said that the initial release of Israelis would include women, children, elderly, and ill hostages in exchange for the release of 700-1000 Palestinian prisoners. The release of Israeli "female recruits" is included. The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the new Hamas position was based on "unrealistic demands". Prime Minister Netanyahu downplayed the chances of a truce. Also read | Hamas accuses Israel of killing 29 Gazans waiting for aid, Tel Aviv denies attacks Since the war between Israel and Hamas started on October 7 last year, mediators Egypt and Qatar have been trying to narrow the differences between the warring factions over what a ceasefire should look like. The faltering truce talks & the new proposal Hamas had said that ceasefire talks faltered over the past few weeks due to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rejection of its demands. The militant group's demands include a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, Israeli withdrawal from the region, the return of the displaced in the south of the enclave to the centre and the north, and stepping up aid without restrictions. In the latest proposal, Hamas said a date for a permanent ceasefire would be agreed upon after the initial exchange of hostages and prisoners as well as a deadline for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Also watch | Israeli PM Netanyahu meets Army Officers & soldiers, says 'will enter Rafah' × All detainees from both sides would be released in a second stage of the plan, Reuters further reported. The previous proposal In February, Hamas received a draft proposal from Gaza truce talks in Paris which included a 40-day pause in all military operations and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners for Israeli hostages at a ratio of 10 to one - a similar ratio to the new proposal. However, the draft proposal was rejected by Israel. The Israeli offensive in Gaza has killed more than 31,000 people and wounded over 71,500, as per the Hamas-run health ministry, and international pressure is mounting to have another ceasefire in the war-torn region. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Gaza war: Hamas presents ceasefire proposal to mediators, Netanyahu govt dismisses it as 'unrealistic'