US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on Thursday (Mar 14) said that Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a major obstacle to peace in the Middle East and called for new leadership in the nation.&nbsp;

Several other Democratic lawmakers have criticised Netanyahu's leadership during war.&nbsp;President Biden has even called the Israeli military's offensive in Gaza as "over the top". &nbsp;

Schumer, who is the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in the United States, said during his speech on the Senate floor that Israel must make "significant course corrections" to achieve lasting peace with the Palestinians.&nbsp;

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>

He said, "I believe in his heart, his highest priority is the security of Israel. However, I also believe Prime Minister Netanyahu has lost his way by allowing his political survival to take precedence over the best interests of Israel."&nbsp;

Schumer stated in his speech that Netanyahu's government "no longer fits the needs of Israel" after October 7 — the day the ongoing war started after Hamas militants launched an unprecedented cross-border attack on Israel, killing about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, according to&nbsp;official Israeli figures.&nbsp;

Hamas had also taken some 250 people&nbsp;hostage.&nbsp;Some of them were later returned as part of a deal in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;

In the aftermath of the October 7 attack, Israel 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;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intelligence-says-iran-did-not-orchestrate-nor-had-foreknowledge-of-oct-7-attacks-699432">US intelligence says Iran ‘did not orchestrate nor had foreknowledge’ of October 7 attacks</a>&nbsp;

Schumer also said it would be a "grave mistake" for Israel to reject a two-state solution and urged negotiators in the Israel-Gaza conflict to do everything possible to secure a ceasefire, free hostages and get aid into Gaza.&nbsp;

He stated that the Israeli PM has been "too willing to tolerate the civilian toll in Gaza", which is pushing support for Israel worldwide to historic lows and claimed that Israel cannot survive if it becomes a pariah.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Israel war: US considers private aid by the sea; poll finds wide disapoval of Biden on Gaza&nbsp;

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"If Prime Minister Netanyahu’s current coalition remains in power after the war begins to wind down, and continues to pursue dangerous and inflammatory policies that test existing US standards for assistance, then the United States will have no choice but to play a more active role in shaping Israeli policy by using our leverage to change the present course," Schumer said.&nbsp;

"As a democracy, Israel has the right to choose its own leaders, and we should let the chips fall where they may. But the important thing is that Israelis are given a choice. There needs to be a fresh debate about the future of Israel after Oct. 7," he added.

"In my opinion, that is best accomplished by holding an election," Schumer further said.&nbsp;

He also criticised Palestinians who support the militant group Hamas, as well as Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from&nbsp;agencies)&nbsp;

US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on Thursday (Mar 14) said that Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a major obstacle to peace in the Middle East and called for new leadership in the nation.

US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on Thursday (Mar 14) said that Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a major obstacle to peace in the Middle East and called for new leadership in the nation. Several other Democratic lawmakers have criticised Netanyahu's leadership during war. President Biden has even called the Israeli military's offensive in Gaza as "over the top". Schumer, who is the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in the United States, said during his speech on the Senate floor that Israel must make "significant course corrections" to achieve lasting peace with the Palestinians. Also read: Yemen's Houthi group claims to have successfully tested hypersonic missile He said, "I believe in his heart, his highest priority is the security of Israel. However, I also believe Prime Minister Netanyahu has lost his way by allowing his political survival to take precedence over the best interests of Israel." Schumer stated in his speech that Netanyahu's government "no longer fits the needs of Israel" after October 7 — the day the ongoing war started after Hamas militants launched an unprecedented cross-border 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. In the aftermath of the October 7 attack, Israel 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. Also read: US intelligence says Iran ‘did not orchestrate nor had foreknowledge’ of October 7 attacks Schumer also said it would be a "grave mistake" for Israel to reject a two-state solution and urged negotiators in the Israel-Gaza conflict to do everything possible to secure a ceasefire, free hostages and get aid into Gaza. He stated that the Israeli PM has been "too willing to tolerate the civilian toll in Gaza", which is pushing support for Israel worldwide to historic lows and claimed that Israel cannot survive if it becomes a pariah. Watch: Israel war: US considers private aid by the sea; poll finds wide disapoval of Biden on Gaza × "If Prime Minister Netanyahu’s current coalition remains in power after the war begins to wind down, and continues to pursue dangerous and inflammatory policies that test existing US standards for assistance, then the United States will have no choice but to play a more active role in shaping Israeli policy by using our leverage to change the present course," Schumer said. "As a democracy, Israel has the right to choose its own leaders, and we should let the chips fall where they may. But the important thing is that Israelis are given a choice. There needs to be a fresh debate about the future of Israel after Oct. 7," he added. "In my opinion, that is best accomplished by holding an election," Schumer further said. He also criticised Palestinians who support the militant group Hamas, as well as Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas. 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)

Chuck Schumer calls for replacing Israel's Netnyahu, says 'significant course corrections' needed for peace

Adidas, the sportswear giant, records its first annual loss in over three decades. With North American sales plummeting and supply chain disruptions looming, the company's CEO unveils a strategy to regain momentum.

Red Sea Crisis: Adidas posts first annual loss in over 30 years

Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi group&nbsp;have successfully tested a hypersonic missile.&nbsp;The claim was made by the&nbsp;group to&nbsp;Russian media on Thursday (Mar 14) amid escalating tensions in West Asia&nbsp;and ongoing attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and surrounding waterways.&nbsp;

Citing a source, Sputnik reported, "Missile forces of the movement have successfully tested a missile that can reach speeds of up to Mach 8 [6,200 miles per hour] and is powered by solid fuel."&nbsp;

"Yemen plans to begin manufacturing it for use in attacks in the Red and Arabian Seas and the Gulf of Aden, as well as against targets in Israel," it added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-iranian-woman-without-hijab-gets-into-scuffle-with-cleric-for-clicking-her-picture-699985">Iranian woman without hijab gets into a scuffle with cleric for clicking her picture</a>&nbsp;

The reports have mentioned that the Iran-backed rebel group is planning to begin manufacturing the missiles for use against targets in the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden, as well as Israel.&nbsp;

The reports did not provide evidence for the claims.&nbsp;

Hypersonic weapons fly at speeds higher than Mach 5 and the one claimed to have tested by Houthis&nbsp;is Mach 8 which is eight times the speed of sound. Such missiles could pose crucial challenges to missile defence systems because of their speed and manoeuvrability.&nbsp;

This comes amid reports that Iran and the United States held indirect talks in Oman, the first in months amid their tensions over Tehran's rapidly advancing nuclear programme and attacks by its proxies.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intelligence-says-iran-did-not-orchestrate-nor-had-foreknowledge-of-oct-7-attacks-699432">US intelligence says Iran ‘did not orchestrate nor had foreknowledge’ of October 7 attacks</a>&nbsp;

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<h2>Houthis fired missile in Gulf of Aden&nbsp;</h2>

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the Iranian-backed Houthi militants fired one anti-ship ballistic missile from Yemen into the Gulf of Aden, but it caused no damage to any vessels.&nbsp;

"The missile did not impact any vessels and there were no injuries or damage reported," CENTCOM added in a statement early on Thursday.&nbsp;

"United States Central Command then successfully engaged and destroyed four unmanned aerial systems (UAVs) and one surface-to-air missile in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen," it said, adding "it was determined these weapons presented an imminent threat to merchant vessels and U.S. Navy ships in the region."&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi group have successfully tested a hypersonic missile. The claim was made by the group to Russian media on Thursday (Mar 14) amid escalating tensions in West Asia and ongoing attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and surrounding waterways.

Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi group have successfully tested a hypersonic missile. The claim was made by the group to Russian media on Thursday (Mar 14) amid escalating tensions in West Asia and ongoing attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and surrounding waterways. Citing a source, Sputnik reported, "Missile forces of the movement have successfully tested a missile that can reach speeds of up to Mach 8 [6,200 miles per hour] and is powered by solid fuel." "Yemen plans to begin manufacturing it for use in attacks in the Red and Arabian Seas and the Gulf of Aden, as well as against targets in Israel," it added. Also read: Iranian woman without hijab gets into a scuffle with cleric for clicking her picture The reports have mentioned that the Iran-backed rebel group is planning to begin manufacturing the missiles for use against targets in the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden, as well as Israel. The reports did not provide evidence for the claims. Hypersonic weapons fly at speeds higher than Mach 5 and the one claimed to have tested by Houthis is Mach 8 which is eight times the speed of sound. Such missiles could pose crucial challenges to missile defence systems because of their speed and manoeuvrability. This comes amid reports that Iran and the United States held indirect talks in Oman, the first in months amid their tensions over Tehran's rapidly advancing nuclear programme and attacks by its proxies. Also read: US intelligence says Iran ‘did not orchestrate nor had foreknowledge’ of October 7 attacks × Houthis fired missile in Gulf of Aden The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the Iranian-backed Houthi militants fired one anti-ship ballistic missile from Yemen into the Gulf of Aden, but it caused no damage to any vessels. "The missile did not impact any vessels and there were no injuries or damage reported," CENTCOM added in a statement early on Thursday. "United States Central Command then successfully engaged and destroyed four unmanned aerial systems (UAVs) and one surface-to-air missile in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen," it said, adding "it was determined these weapons presented an imminent threat to merchant vessels and U.S. Navy ships in the region." 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)

Yemen's Houthi group successfully tests hypersonic missile: Report

The ship carrying aid for Gaza residents caught in the crossfire between Israel and Hamas is nearing its destination. This comes as the EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that starvation is being employed as a tool of warfare.

Meanwhile, faced with international pressure, Israel said it was trying to "flood" the Gaza Strip with humanitarian aid.

<h2>A man-made disaster</h2>

In Gaza, after more than five months of the war, the population of around 2.3 million is increasingly facing a growing risk of famine. Aid agencies have called for food supplies to be stepped up and have accused Israel of not doing enough to ensure aid reaches the people.

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>

Borrell, on Tuesday (Mar 12), told the UN security council in New York that the lack of aid reaching Gaza was a man-made disaster.&nbsp;

"We are now facing a population fighting for their own survival," he said, adding, "[The humanitarian crisis is] man-made, and when we look for alternative ways of providing support by sea, by air, we have to remind [ourselves] that we have to do it because the natural way of providing support through roads is being … artificially closed."

"Starvation is being used as a war arm, and when we condemned this happening in Ukraine, we have to use the same words for what is happening in Gaza," he alleged.

<h2>Open Arms to reach Gaza soon</h2>

After completing its 240 miles (386.24 kilometres)&nbsp;journey from Cyprus, the Spanish-flagged vessel Open Arms, which is carrying 200 tonnes of food or almost half a million meals, as per The Guardian&nbsp;will soon dock at a jetty being built by the World Central Kitchen (WCK).

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 official</a>

As the aid nears Gaza, the EU on Wednesday (Mar 13) urged Israel to open additional crossings into Gaza, reports Reuters.

"While supporting the Cyprus maritime corridor, we call on Israel to open additional crossings so more aid can reach Gaza, including the North, and to ease overall customs restrictions," said EU Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic on social media platform X.

<h2>Israel trying to 'flood' Gaza with aid</h2>

Blaming failures by the aid agencies for the delay in aid reaching Gaza, Israel's main military spokesperson on Wednesday (Mar 13) said, "We are trying to flood the area, to flood it with humanitarian aid."

(With inputs from agencies)

The ship carrying aid for Gaza residents caught in the crossfire between Israel and Hamas is nearing its destination. This comes as the EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that starvation is being employed as a tool of warfare.

The ship carrying aid for Gaza residents caught in the crossfire between Israel and Hamas is nearing its destination. This comes as the EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that starvation is being employed as a tool of warfare. Meanwhile, faced with international pressure, Israel said it was trying to "flood" the Gaza Strip with humanitarian aid. A man-made disaster In Gaza, after more than five months of the war, the population of around 2.3 million is increasingly facing a growing risk of famine. Aid agencies have called for food supplies to be stepped up and have accused Israel of not doing enough to ensure aid reaches the people. Also read | UN report finds Israel's killing of journalist in Lebanon a clear violation of international law Borrell, on Tuesday (Mar 12), told the UN security council in New York that the lack of aid reaching Gaza was a man-made disaster. "We are now facing a population fighting for their own survival," he said, adding, "[The humanitarian crisis is] man-made, and when we look for alternative ways of providing support by sea, by air, we have to remind [ourselves] that we have to do it because the natural way of providing support through roads is being … artificially closed." "Starvation is being used as a war arm, and when we condemned this happening in Ukraine, we have to use the same words for what is happening in Gaza," he alleged. Open Arms to reach Gaza soon After completing its 240 miles (386.24 kilometres) journey from Cyprus, the Spanish-flagged vessel Open Arms, which is carrying 200 tonnes of food or almost half a million meals, as per The Guardian will soon dock at a jetty being built by the World Central Kitchen (WCK). Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Starvation being used as a weapon, says EU official As the aid nears Gaza, the EU on Wednesday (Mar 13) urged Israel to open additional crossings into Gaza, reports Reuters. "While supporting the Cyprus maritime corridor, we call on Israel to open additional crossings so more aid can reach Gaza, including the North, and to ease overall customs restrictions," said EU Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic on social media platform X. Israel trying to 'flood' Gaza with aid Blaming failures by the aid agencies for the delay in aid reaching Gaza, Israel's main military spokesperson on Wednesday (Mar 13) said, "We are trying to flood the area, to flood it with humanitarian aid." (With inputs from agencies)

EU urges Israel to open crossings as aid ship nears Gaza; Israel says will 'flood' area with humanitarian aid

In a tragic incident last year, Reuters journalist Issam Abdallah was killed in Lebanon when an Israeli tank fired two 120 mm rounds at a group of journalists. This, a UN investigation has now revealed, violated international law.

<h2>A clear violation</h2>

The investigation, conducted by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), concluded that the Israeli Merkava tank targeted "clearly identifiable journalists" without any exchange of fire along the border between Israel and Lebanon for over 40 minutes before the incident.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2023-deadliest-year-for-journalists-99-killed-77-of-them-in-israel-hamas-war-690722">2023 deadliest year for journalists: 99 killed, 77 in Israel-Hamas war alone</a>

"The firing at civilians, in this instance clearly identifiable journalists, constitutes a violation of UNSCR 1701 (2006) and international law," states the UNIFIL report dated Feb 27.

Reuters, which has been privy to the UNIFIL report, further quotes it as saying: "It is assessed that there was no exchange of fire across the Blue Line at the time of the incident. The reason for the strikes on the journalists is not known."

The tank rounds which killed Issam Abdallah also injured six other journalists present at the scene.

<h2>IDF refutes charges</h2>

Responding to questions about the UNIFIL report, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson Nir Dinar said that the IDF had retaliated against an attack by Hezbollah near Hanita on Oct 13.&nbsp;

"The IDF deplores any injury to uninvolved parties, and does not deliberately shoot at civilians, including journalists," Dinar emphasised.&nbsp;

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>

"The IDF considers the freedom of the press to be of utmost importance while clarifying that being in a war zone is dangerous." He also said that the General Staff's Fact Finding and Assessment Mechanism, which reviews exceptional events and decides whether a case warrants a criminal investigation, will continue to examine the incident.

However, Dinar emphasised that the IDF does not intentionally target civilians, including journalists, and considers press freedom paramount.&nbsp;

<h2>Reuters calls for action</h2>

Reuters Editor-in-Chief Alessandra Galloni has called for an explanation from Israel and hold those responsible accountable.

The UNIFIL report, as per Reuters citing two sources in the know, was submitted to the United Nations on Feb&nbsp;28, and has been shared with the Lebanese and Israeli militaries.

"(The) IDF should conduct an investigation into the incident and a full review of their procedures at the time to avoid a recurrence," it recommends.

"The IDF should share their investigation's findings with UNIFIL."

(With inputs from agencies)

In a tragic incident last year, Reuters journalist Issam Abdallah was killed in Lebanon when an Israeli tank fired two 120 mm rounds at a group of journalists. This, a UN investigation has now revealed, violated international law.

In a tragic incident last year, Reuters journalist Issam Abdallah was killed in Lebanon when an Israeli tank fired two 120 mm rounds at a group of journalists. This, a UN investigation has now revealed, violated international law. A clear violation The investigation, conducted by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), concluded that the Israeli Merkava tank targeted "clearly identifiable journalists" without any exchange of fire along the border between Israel and Lebanon for over 40 minutes before the incident. Also read | 2023 deadliest year for journalists: 99 killed, 77 in Israel-Hamas war alone "The firing at civilians, in this instance clearly identifiable journalists, constitutes a violation of UNSCR 1701 (2006) and international law," states the UNIFIL report dated Feb 27. Reuters, which has been privy to the UNIFIL report, further quotes it as saying: "It is assessed that there was no exchange of fire across the Blue Line at the time of the incident. The reason for the strikes on the journalists is not known." The tank rounds which killed Issam Abdallah also injured six other journalists present at the scene. IDF refutes charges Responding to questions about the UNIFIL report, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson Nir Dinar said that the IDF had retaliated against an attack by Hezbollah near Hanita on Oct 13. "The IDF deplores any injury to uninvolved parties, and does not deliberately shoot at civilians, including journalists," Dinar emphasised. Also read | Israel claims strike on car in south Lebanon kills 'significant' Hamas member "The IDF considers the freedom of the press to be of utmost importance while clarifying that being in a war zone is dangerous." He also said that the General Staff's Fact Finding and Assessment Mechanism, which reviews exceptional events and decides whether a case warrants a criminal investigation, will continue to examine the incident. However, Dinar emphasised that the IDF does not intentionally target civilians, including journalists, and considers press freedom paramount. Reuters calls for action Reuters Editor-in-Chief Alessandra Galloni has called for an explanation from Israel and hold those responsible accountable. The UNIFIL report, as per Reuters citing two sources in the know, was submitted to the United Nations on Feb 28, and has been shared with the Lebanese and Israeli militaries. "(The) IDF should conduct an investigation into the incident and a full review of their procedures at the time to avoid a recurrence," it recommends. "The IDF should share their investigation's findings with UNIFIL." (With inputs from agencies)

UN report finds Israel's killing of journalist in Lebanon a clear violation of international law

The Israeli Parliament has approved an amended 2024 budget that adds billions of dollars to fund Israel's war against the Hamas militants in Gaza well the amended budget provides more funds to spend on defense as well as households and businesses hurt by the ongoing War. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli lawmakers approve $160 billion spending package to fund Gaza war

In Gaza, the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has asserted that starvation is being employed as a tool of warfare. Josep Borrell characterised the absence of aid reaching the region as a calamity deliberately caused by human actions.

Despite a Spanish ship transporting crucial food supplies from Cyprus to Gaza, the UN underscores that this effort cannot fully replace land deliveries.

Also read:&nbsp;<a attributionsrc="" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beaten-attacked-by-dogs-raped-un-report-alleges-palestinians-suffering-horrible-abuse-in-israeli-detention-697167" target="_parent" title="Beaten, attacked by dogs, raped: UN report alleges Palestinians suffering horrible abuse in Israeli detention">Beaten, attacked by dogs, raped: UN report alleges Palestinians suffering horrible abuse in Israeli detention</a>

In the face of Israeli restrictions on road access, aid agencies report that only a fraction of the necessary aid is reaching its destination. To address this, alternative routes such as sea and air drops are being explored and used now. 
 
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has, meanwhile, vowed to press on with an offensive in southern Gaza.

The UN World Food Programme recently used a land route to deliver aid to northern Gaza, with ongoing efforts to scale up these deliveries.

On Tuesday, a UN World Food Programme convoy used a land route to deliver aid to northern Gaza for the first time in three weeks.

The trucks used an Israeli military road running along Gaza's border fence, Jamie McGoldrick, UN aid coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, told Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-finds-credible-evidence-of-sexual-violence-including-gang-rapes-during-in-hamas-attack-on-israel-696611">UN finds 'credible' evidence of sexual violence, including gang rapes, during Hamas attack on Israel</a>

Enough food for 25,000 people was delivered to Gaza City, with WFP spokesperson Shaza Moghraby saying they were hoping to scale up deliveries, but need access to be regular and consistent.

Israel says it is not to blame for Gaza's food shortages as it is allowing aid through two crossings in the south.

Borrell, in his address to the UN Security Council, emphasised that the humanitarian crisis is a consequence of the lack of viable land routes.

The UN has issued a warning that a significant portion of Gaza's population is teetering on the brink of famine. Tragically, at least 27 people, including many children, have succumbed to malnutrition and dehydration in the past two weeks, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry.

In response to this dire situation, the EU is actively working to facilitate humanitarian assistance. Borrell drew parallels between the use of starvation as a weapon in Gaza and similar condemnations in Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-airdrops-fresh-round-of-humanitarian-aid-to-gaza-36800-meals-delivered-697053">Israel-Hamas war: US airdrops fresh round of humanitarian aid to Gaza; 36,800 meals delivered</a>

Meanwhile, the UN continues its mediation efforts while Israel's military campaign in Gaza persists.

(With inputs from agencies)

In Gaza, the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has asserted that starvation is being employed as a tool of warfare. Josep Borrell characterised the absence of aid reaching the region as a calamity deliberately caused by human actions.

In Gaza, the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has asserted that starvation is being employed as a tool of warfare. Josep Borrell characterised the absence of aid reaching the region as a calamity deliberately caused by human actions. Despite a Spanish ship transporting crucial food supplies from Cyprus to Gaza, the UN underscores that this effort cannot fully replace land deliveries. Also read: Beaten, attacked by dogs, raped: UN report alleges Palestinians suffering horrible abuse in Israeli detention In the face of Israeli restrictions on road access, aid agencies report that only a fraction of the necessary aid is reaching its destination. To address this, alternative routes such as sea and air drops are being explored and used now. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has, meanwhile, vowed to press on with an offensive in southern Gaza. The UN World Food Programme recently used a land route to deliver aid to northern Gaza, with ongoing efforts to scale up these deliveries. On Tuesday, a UN World Food Programme convoy used a land route to deliver aid to northern Gaza for the first time in three weeks. The trucks used an Israeli military road running along Gaza's border fence, Jamie McGoldrick, UN aid coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, told Reuters. Also read | UN finds 'credible' evidence of sexual violence, including gang rapes, during Hamas attack on Israel Enough food for 25,000 people was delivered to Gaza City, with WFP spokesperson Shaza Moghraby saying they were hoping to scale up deliveries, but need access to be regular and consistent. Israel says it is not to blame for Gaza's food shortages as it is allowing aid through two crossings in the south. Borrell, in his address to the UN Security Council, emphasised that the humanitarian crisis is a consequence of the lack of viable land routes. The UN has issued a warning that a significant portion of Gaza's population is teetering on the brink of famine. Tragically, at least 27 people, including many children, have succumbed to malnutrition and dehydration in the past two weeks, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry. In response to this dire situation, the EU is actively working to facilitate humanitarian assistance. Borrell drew parallels between the use of starvation as a weapon in Gaza and similar condemnations in Ukraine. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: US airdrops fresh round of humanitarian aid to Gaza; 36,800 meals delivered Meanwhile, the UN continues its mediation efforts while Israel's military campaign in Gaza persists. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Starvation being used as a weapon, says EU foreign policy chief

An aid ship, which was docked in Cyprus for close to a month, finally set sail for the war-ravaged Gaza Strip on Tuesday (Mar 12). The ship is carrying 200 tonnes of aid in a pilot project to open a sea route to deliver supplies to those impacted by the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;

Several international agencies have warned that the population in Gaza is on the brink of famine and collective effort is required to end fighting.&nbsp;

The charity ship Open Arms was seen leaving Larnaca port in Cyprus, pulling a barge containing wheat, rice, and protein.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthi-rebels-target-us-ship-pinocchio-in-red-sea-as-11-killed-in-us-british-airstrikes-699164">Houthi rebels target US ship 'Pinocchio' in Red Sea as 11 killed in US-British airstrikes</a>&nbsp;

A video showed the Spanish-flagged ship departing the Mediterranean island's southern port of Larnaca. However, the time was not revealed.&nbsp;

According to the government officials in Cyprus, the exact timing of the vessel's departure would not be released "for security reasons".&nbsp;

The mission was mostly funded by the UAE and organised by the United States-based nonprofit World Central Kitchen (WCK).&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-netanyahu-reacts-to-perceived-tensions-between-israel-and-us-699143">Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu reacts to perceived tensions between Israel and US</a>&nbsp;

The journey to Gaza takes about 15 hours but a heavy tow barge could make the trip considerably longer, possibly up to two days. Cyprus is just over 320 km north-west of Gaza.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the US military said its vessel, General Frank S. Besson, was also on the way to provide humanitarian relief to Gaza by sea.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;UN Security Council meets on findings of Hamas 'sexual violence' attacks

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Earlier on Monday, Greek Cypriot media reported that the Open Arms had been delayed for no other reason than that there was nowhere to land the shipment.&nbsp;

According to Politis, which is a leading daily, "The delay is due to the fact that that a platform [landing point] in Gaza is not yet ready to receive the 150 tonnes of humanitarian help that the vessel is transporting, according to the Cyprus news agency's information."&nbsp;

<h2>EU chief thanked the president of Cyprus&nbsp;</h2>

Ursula von der Leyen, the EU Commission president, thanked Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides for the island's "leadership in setting up the humanitarian maritime corridor to Gaza".&nbsp;

Taking to her official account on X, the EU chief wrote that "the departure of the first ship is a sign of hope. We will work together for many more ships to follow. We will do everything in our power for aid to reach Palestinians".&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

An aid ship, which was docked in Cyprus for close to a month, finally set sail for the war-ravaged Gaza Strip on Tuesday (Mar 12). The ship is carrying 200 tonnes of aid in a pilot project to open a sea route to deliver supplies to those impacted by the ongoing war in Gaza.

An aid ship, which was docked in Cyprus for close to a month, finally set sail for the war-ravaged Gaza Strip on Tuesday (Mar 12). The ship is carrying 200 tonnes of aid in a pilot project to open a sea route to deliver supplies to those impacted by the ongoing war in Gaza. Several international agencies have warned that the population in Gaza is on the brink of famine and collective effort is required to end fighting. The charity ship Open Arms was seen leaving Larnaca port in Cyprus, pulling a barge containing wheat, rice, and protein. Also read: Houthi rebels target US ship 'Pinocchio' in Red Sea as 11 killed in US-British airstrikes A video showed the Spanish-flagged ship departing the Mediterranean island's southern port of Larnaca. However, the time was not revealed. According to the government officials in Cyprus, the exact timing of the vessel's departure would not be released "for security reasons". The mission was mostly funded by the UAE and organised by the United States-based nonprofit World Central Kitchen (WCK). Also Read: Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu reacts to perceived tensions between Israel and US The journey to Gaza takes about 15 hours but a heavy tow barge could make the trip considerably longer, possibly up to two days. Cyprus is just over 320 km north-west of Gaza. Meanwhile, the US military said its vessel, General Frank S. Besson, was also on the way to provide humanitarian relief to Gaza by sea. Watch: UN Security Council meets on findings of Hamas 'sexual violence' attacks × Earlier on Monday, Greek Cypriot media reported that the Open Arms had been delayed for no other reason than that there was nowhere to land the shipment. According to Politis, which is a leading daily, "The delay is due to the fact that that a platform [landing point] in Gaza is not yet ready to receive the 150 tonnes of humanitarian help that the vessel is transporting, according to the Cyprus news agency's information." EU chief thanked the president of Cyprus Ursula von der Leyen, the EU Commission president, thanked Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides for the island's "leadership in setting up the humanitarian maritime corridor to Gaza". Taking to her official account on X, the EU chief wrote that "the departure of the first ship is a sign of hope. We will work together for many more ships to follow. We will do everything in our power for aid to reach Palestinians". (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: 'Open Arms', a ship carrying 200 tonnes of aid for Gaza, leaves from Cyprus

Amid growing concerns over alleged mistreatment of medical staff in Gaza following an Israeli raid, a UK Foreign Office minister has called for a thorough investigation into the matter.

<h2>'A full explanation'</h2>

Responding to inquiries from Labour MP Bethan Winter, Foreign Office minister Andrew Mitchell, as reported by The Guardian, has affirmed the UK government's push for "a full explanation and investigation" into the alleged mistreatment of medical staff.&nbsp;As per media reports, the Israeli raid, which began on February 15, targeted Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza's largest functioning medical facility.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-ship-carrying-200-tonnes-of-aid-for-gaza-left-cyprus-699378">Israel-Hamas war: Ship carrying 200 tonnes of aid for Gaza leaves from Cyprus</a>

Emphasising the importance of upholding international humanitarian law, he added: "When it comes to targeting operations there are lawyers embedded in the Israeli and the IDF command, just as there are in Britain, and that should ensure that the acceptance and honouring of international humanitarian law is kept, but I agree with [Winters] a full explanation is required."

<h2>The purported raids</h2>

Reports from doctors allege that Israel Defense Forces (IDF) ground troops stormed the hospital, cutting off access routes and shelling its premises. Because of the assault, patients, medical staff, and displaced civilians taking shelter at the hospital were forced to flee.&nbsp;

Tragically, at least 13 patients died because of the lack of electricity necessary to operate life-saving equipment like ventilators.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intelligence-says-iran-did-not-orchestrate-nor-had-foreknowledge-of-oct-7-attacks-699432">US intelligence says Iran ‘did not orchestrate nor had foreknowledge’ of October 7 attacks</a>

The IDF defended the raid as "precise and limited," citing intelligence suggesting Hamas militants were using the hospital as a base.

Subsequently, about 200 individuals — including dozens of medics from Nasser, as per a BBC investigation published on Tuesday (March 12) — were detained during the operation.

<h2>Disturbing accounts from the raid</h2>

Disturbing accounts have emerged. As per The Guardian, its sources have described brutal treatment, including beatings and humiliating acts during detention.&nbsp;

One doctor even recounted being blindfolded, stripped to his underwear, and subjected to physical violence, including an incident where his hand was broken by an interrogator.

While the IDF did not address specific allegations, they denied any harm to medical staff, stressing that mistreatment of detainees goes against their orders.

<h2>Not good enough</h2>

Sacha Deshmukh, CEO of Amnesty International UK, expressed dissatisfaction with Mitchell's remarks, and said: "It's not good enough for Andrew Mitchell to say the UK will press the Israeli authorities to investigate these harrowing allegations."

"We know from years of so-called 'investigations' conducted by the Israeli military authorities into abuses committed by their forces in Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem, that there’s a vanishingly small prospect of there being any accountability whatsoever," said Deshmukh.

"The UK must get firmly behind efforts by the international criminal court and the International Court of Justice to properly examine the growing catalogue of atrocities in Gaza."

Previously, an internal UN report had revealed widespread abuse of Palestinian detainees, including beatings and sexual assault.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid growing concerns over alleged mistreatment of medical staff in Gaza following an Israeli raid, a UK Foreign Office minister has called for a thorough investigation into the matter.

Amid growing concerns over alleged mistreatment of medical staff in Gaza following an Israeli raid, a UK Foreign Office minister has called for a thorough investigation into the matter. 'A full explanation' Responding to inquiries from Labour MP Bethan Winter, Foreign Office minister Andrew Mitchell, as reported by The Guardian, has affirmed the UK government's push for "a full explanation and investigation" into the alleged mistreatment of medical staff. As per media reports, the Israeli raid, which began on February 15, targeted Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza's largest functioning medical facility. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Ship carrying 200 tonnes of aid for Gaza leaves from Cyprus Emphasising the importance of upholding international humanitarian law, he added: "When it comes to targeting operations there are lawyers embedded in the Israeli and the IDF command, just as there are in Britain, and that should ensure that the acceptance and honouring of international humanitarian law is kept, but I agree with [Winters] a full explanation is required." The purported raids Reports from doctors allege that Israel Defense Forces (IDF) ground troops stormed the hospital, cutting off access routes and shelling its premises. Because of the assault, patients, medical staff, and displaced civilians taking shelter at the hospital were forced to flee. Tragically, at least 13 patients died because of the lack of electricity necessary to operate life-saving equipment like ventilators. Also read | US intelligence says Iran ‘did not orchestrate nor had foreknowledge’ of October 7 attacks The IDF defended the raid as "precise and limited," citing intelligence suggesting Hamas militants were using the hospital as a base. Subsequently, about 200 individuals — including dozens of medics from Nasser, as per a BBC investigation published on Tuesday (March 12) — were detained during the operation. Disturbing accounts from the raid Disturbing accounts have emerged. As per The Guardian, its sources have described brutal treatment, including beatings and humiliating acts during detention. One doctor even recounted being blindfolded, stripped to his underwear, and subjected to physical violence, including an incident where his hand was broken by an interrogator. While the IDF did not address specific allegations, they denied any harm to medical staff, stressing that mistreatment of detainees goes against their orders. Not good enough Sacha Deshmukh, CEO of Amnesty International UK, expressed dissatisfaction with Mitchell's remarks, and said: "It's not good enough for Andrew Mitchell to say the UK will press the Israeli authorities to investigate these harrowing allegations." "We know from years of so-called 'investigations' conducted by the Israeli military authorities into abuses committed by their forces in Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem, that there’s a vanishingly small prospect of there being any accountability whatsoever," said Deshmukh. "The UK must get firmly behind efforts by the international criminal court and the International Court of Justice to properly examine the growing catalogue of atrocities in Gaza." Previously, an internal UN report had revealed widespread abuse of Palestinian detainees, including beatings and sexual assault. (With inputs from agencies)

UK seeks 'full explanation' from Israel on Gaza hospital raid amid reports of mistreatment of doctors

Gaza has been reeling under an immense humanitarian crisis as access to basic services such as food and water remains limited. With the residents continuing to face hardships, the blockade imposed by Israel has severely restricted the movement of aid in the Gaza Strip through Egypt as well.

This has exacerbated the suffering as the war between the Jewish nation and the Hamas militant group continues relentlessly.&nbsp;Amid this, the US earlier airdropped humanitarian aid, however as per State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, more ways are to be considered, one of them being building a temporary port to get the aid to Gazans.&nbsp;

In his recent State of the Union address on March 7, US President Joe Biden announced plans for the US military to construct a temporary port along Gaza's Mediterranean coast to facilitate the aid delivery. With this initiative, Washington is aiming to provide essential supplies such as food, medicine, water, and temporary shelters to the people of Gaza.

However, Biden has already clarified that there will be "no US boots" on the Gazan soil, underscoring that the operation will not involve the deployment of US military personnel within the besieged territory.

This comes as Israel, the US' strategic partner in the West Asian region, has expressed support for the temporary dock, reports said even as rift has been growing between Biden and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Sigrid Kaag, the UN humanitarian and reconstruction coordinator for Gaza, also welcomed Washington's involvement in the initiative.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the plan?&nbsp;JLOTS, large military vessel, and small cargo ships&nbsp;</h2>

The operation, which is anticipated to take several weeks to execute, will be somewhat like a Cyprus initiative, where there is an establishment of a maritime corridor to facilitate the delivery of crucial humanitarian aid by sea, addressing urgent needs.&nbsp;The Cyprus plan is to deliver aid by constructing a landing jetty in Gaza using material salvaged from demolished buildings and rubble.

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 official</a>

However, the US plan for a temporary dock is different from the above. In the US initiative, there will be a temporary pier to deliver aid.&nbsp;While initially military-operated, the temporary port is envisioned to transition into a commercially run facility, reports said.&nbsp;

However, there will be logistical and security challenges.

The plan involves&nbsp;Joint Logistics Over The Shore (JLOTS) equipment.&nbsp;This will be akin to a large LEGO system, as per a report by the Times of Israel.&nbsp;It will be comprised of 40-foot-long steel pieces that interlock to create a pier and causeway.

The question is how these steel pieces will be taken to the sea. It will be done with the help of a big Military Sealift Command vessel. As per reports, US troops in a few days will start loading the JLOTS into the vessel.&nbsp;

The resulting causeway can span up to 1,800 feet in length and will be two-laned. This causeway will allow for the transfer of aid from cargo ships to smaller vessels and ultimately onto land in Gaza with the help of another floating pier.&nbsp;

Speaking to a UK media outlet, a retired US Marine Corps colonel&nbsp;Mark Cancian said,&nbsp;"The military's preference is to have an operating port. That makes everything much easier."&nbsp;

"But that's not always possible, either due to a conflict situation or in a peacetime, humanitarian mission," he said adding, "That's where JLOTS comes in."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strike-on-car-in-south-lebanon-kills-significant-hamas-member-699735">Israeli strike on car in south Lebanon kills 'significant' Hamas member</a>

Now, to manage aid distribution, the US has partnered with Fogbow, a private firm led by former military and intelligence officials. Fogbow's role, known internally as the Blue Beach Plan, will focus on organising aid movement. However, as far as distribution is concerned Fogbow will not be a part of it.&nbsp;

Security measures are also paramount, with reports quoting experts highlighting the need to prevent unauthorised access to the pier area. The Israel Defense Force (IDF) will oversee outer security.&nbsp;

The aid shipments are expected to make a major impact, potentially providing two million meals a day to Gaza's population, helping alleviate the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the ongoing conflict.

The 7th Transportation Brigade, stationed at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia, had already started assembling JLOTS equipment and watercraft, as per officials cited by the media reports.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-warplanes-strike-deep-in-lebanese-territory-699754">Israel warplanes strike deep in Lebanese territory</a>

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The Biden administration has resorted to airdrops as an unconventional solution to provide aid to Gaza, after months of urging Israel to increase aid delivery and ensure safe passage for trucks carrying supplies.

The Israeli government will also oversee security at the pier and safeguard it against potential attacks by Hamas militants.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Spain's Open Arms aid ship, which was stationed in Larnaca and was awaiting permission to transport food aid from World Central Kitchen, a US charity founded by renowned chef Jose Andres, finally set sail. The boat carried 200 tonnes of rice, flour, and proteins for delivery to Gaza. Additionally, another 500 tonnes of aid are prepared in Cyprus for subsequent shipments.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Gaza has been reeling under an immense humanitarian crisis as access to basic services such as food and water remains limited. With the residents continuing to face hardships, the blockade imposed by Israel has severely restricted the movement of aid in the Gaza Strip through Egypt as well.

Gaza has been reeling under an immense humanitarian crisis as access to basic services such as food and water remains limited. With the residents continuing to face hardships, the blockade imposed by Israel has severely restricted the movement of aid in the Gaza Strip through Egypt as well. This has exacerbated the suffering as the war between the Jewish nation and the Hamas militant group continues relentlessly. Amid this, the US earlier airdropped humanitarian aid, however as per State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, more ways are to be considered, one of them being building a temporary port to get the aid to Gazans. In his recent State of the Union address on March 7, US President Joe Biden announced plans for the US military to construct a temporary port along Gaza's Mediterranean coast to facilitate the aid delivery. With this initiative, Washington is aiming to provide essential supplies such as food, medicine, water, and temporary shelters to the people of Gaza. However, Biden has already clarified that there will be "no US boots" on the Gazan soil, underscoring that the operation will not involve the deployment of US military personnel within the besieged territory. This comes as Israel, the US' strategic partner in the West Asian region, has expressed support for the temporary dock, reports said even as rift has been growing between Biden and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Sigrid Kaag, the UN humanitarian and reconstruction coordinator for Gaza, also welcomed Washington's involvement in the initiative. What is the plan? JLOTS, large military vessel, and small cargo ships The operation, which is anticipated to take several weeks to execute, will be somewhat like a Cyprus initiative, where there is an establishment of a maritime corridor to facilitate the delivery of crucial humanitarian aid by sea, addressing urgent needs. The Cyprus plan is to deliver aid by constructing a landing jetty in Gaza using material salvaged from demolished buildings and rubble. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Starvation being used as a weapon, says EU official However, the US plan for a temporary dock is different from the above. In the US initiative, there will be a temporary pier to deliver aid. While initially military-operated, the temporary port is envisioned to transition into a commercially run facility, reports said. However, there will be logistical and security challenges. The plan involves Joint Logistics Over The Shore (JLOTS) equipment. This will be akin to a large LEGO system, as per a report by the Times of Israel. It will be comprised of 40-foot-long steel pieces that interlock to create a pier and causeway. The question is how these steel pieces will be taken to the sea. It will be done with the help of a big Military Sealift Command vessel. As per reports, US troops in a few days will start loading the JLOTS into the vessel. The resulting causeway can span up to 1,800 feet in length and will be two-laned. This causeway will allow for the transfer of aid from cargo ships to smaller vessels and ultimately onto land in Gaza with the help of another floating pier. Speaking to a UK media outlet, a retired US Marine Corps colonel Mark Cancian said, "The military's preference is to have an operating port. That makes everything much easier." "But that's not always possible, either due to a conflict situation or in a peacetime, humanitarian mission," he said adding, "That's where JLOTS comes in." Also Read | Israeli strike on car in south Lebanon kills 'significant' Hamas member Now, to manage aid distribution, the US has partnered with Fogbow, a private firm led by former military and intelligence officials. Fogbow's role, known internally as the Blue Beach Plan, will focus on organising aid movement. However, as far as distribution is concerned Fogbow will not be a part of it. Security measures are also paramount, with reports quoting experts highlighting the need to prevent unauthorised access to the pier area. The Israel Defense Force (IDF) will oversee outer security. The aid shipments are expected to make a major impact, potentially providing two million meals a day to Gaza's population, helping alleviate the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the ongoing conflict. The 7th Transportation Brigade, stationed at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia, had already started assembling JLOTS equipment and watercraft, as per officials cited by the media reports. Watch | Israel warplanes strike deep in Lebanese territory × The Biden administration has resorted to airdrops as an unconventional solution to provide aid to Gaza, after months of urging Israel to increase aid delivery and ensure safe passage for trucks carrying supplies. The Israeli government will also oversee security at the pier and safeguard it against potential attacks by Hamas militants. Meanwhile, Spain's Open Arms aid ship, which was stationed in Larnaca and was awaiting permission to transport food aid from World Central Kitchen, a US charity founded by renowned chef Jose Andres, finally set sail. The boat carried 200 tonnes of rice, flour, and proteins for delivery to Gaza. Additionally, another 500 tonnes of aid are prepared in Cyprus for subsequent shipments. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Logistical and security hurdles in US bid to set up temporary port for aid to Gazans

The Israeli military claimed on Wednesday (Mar 13) that its strikes killed a "significant" Hamas member Hadi Ali Mustafa in southern Lebanon.&nbsp;

It said Mustafa was a Hamas operative who was responsible for attacks against Israeli and Jewish targets around the world.&nbsp;

Mustafa was struck outside the southern Lebanese city of Tyre.&nbsp;

Hamas also confirmed the news as its officials said that an Israeli drone strike on a car near the Lebanese city killed a Hamas member from the nearby Palestinian camp of Rashidieh.&nbsp;

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 official</a>&nbsp;

Hamas'&nbsp;Al Aqsa television said Mustafa was a leader of the group's armed wing.&nbsp;

According to two security sources, a Syrian man who was passing by on his motorcycle was also killed in the strike, after earlier saying that the two fatalities had been in Mustafa's car.&nbsp;

All three sources told the news agency that the drone, which they identified as Israeli, hovered in the air above the site of the strike for several minutes before it struck.&nbsp;

Hezbollah, the Lebanese ally of Hamas, has exchanged near-daily fire with Israel since the ongoing war erupted between Hamas and Israel in October. The Palestinian groups in Lebanon have also claimed cross-border attacks.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-trade-disrupted-by-red-sea-attacks-and-panama-canal-drought-imf-699672">Global trade disrupted by Red Sea attacks and Panama Canal drought: IMF</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Israel War: UN aid convoy entered north Gaza via new military road&nbsp;

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<h2>Israeli forces kill three Palestinians in West Bank</h2>

Israeli forces shot dead three Palestinians in two separate incidents in the occupied West Bank on Wednesday. As per reports, a total of six Palestinians were killed within hours in the Palestinian territory.&nbsp;

Yousef Nimer, who witnessed an overnight raid on the West Bank city of Jenin, alleged that Israeli forces fired at people he was sitting with outside a hospital as they finished Suhur, the last meal before sunrise during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.&nbsp;

"I told them, look, there is something coming towards us. We ran away, then a sniper started to shoot at us," said 16-year-old Nimer as quoted by Reuters. He was wounded and pointed to a hole in one of the hospital's walls which he said had been made by a bullet.&nbsp;

"Some crawled and some ran away. The people who ran away got injured and those who crawled were saved," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli military claimed on Wednesday (Mar 13) that its strikes killed a "significant" Hamas member Hadi Ali Mustafa in southern Lebanon. It said Mustafa was a Hamas operative who was responsible for attacks against Israeli and Jewish targets around the world.

The Israeli military claimed on Wednesday (Mar 13) that its strikes killed a "significant" Hamas member Hadi Ali Mustafa in southern Lebanon. It said Mustafa was a Hamas operative who was responsible for attacks against Israeli and Jewish targets around the world. Mustafa was struck outside the southern Lebanese city of Tyre. Hamas also confirmed the news as its officials said that an Israeli drone strike on a car near the Lebanese city killed a Hamas member from the nearby Palestinian camp of Rashidieh. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Starvation being used as a weapon, says EU official Hamas' Al Aqsa television said Mustafa was a leader of the group's armed wing. According to two security sources, a Syrian man who was passing by on his motorcycle was also killed in the strike, after earlier saying that the two fatalities had been in Mustafa's car. All three sources told the news agency that the drone, which they identified as Israeli, hovered in the air above the site of the strike for several minutes before it struck. Hezbollah, the Lebanese ally of Hamas, has exchanged near-daily fire with Israel since the ongoing war erupted between Hamas and Israel in October. The Palestinian groups in Lebanon have also claimed cross-border attacks. Also read: Global trade disrupted by Red Sea attacks and Panama Canal drought: IMF Watch: Israel War: UN aid convoy entered north Gaza via new military road × Israeli forces kill three Palestinians in West Bank Israeli forces shot dead three Palestinians in two separate incidents in the occupied West Bank on Wednesday. As per reports, a total of six Palestinians were killed within hours in the Palestinian territory. Yousef Nimer, who witnessed an overnight raid on the West Bank city of Jenin, alleged that Israeli forces fired at people he was sitting with outside a hospital as they finished Suhur, the last meal before sunrise during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. "I told them, look, there is something coming towards us. We ran away, then a sniper started to shoot at us," said 16-year-old Nimer as quoted by Reuters. He was wounded and pointed to a hole in one of the hospital's walls which he said had been made by a bullet. "Some crawled and some ran away. The people who ran away got injured and those who crawled were saved," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel claims strike on car in south Lebanon kills 'significant' Hamas member

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Mar 11) reacted to the perceived disagreement between Israel and the United States, saying that it becomes harder to defeat the militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

During an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu said, "To the extent that Hamas believes that there's daylight between us, that doesn't help."&nbsp;

This&nbsp;interview comes after intensified criticism from US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris over the weekend.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-verifying-if-hamas-military-leader-marwan-issa-was-killed-in-gaza-699109">Israel ‘verifying’ if Hamas military leader Marwan Issa was killed in Gaza</a>&nbsp;

The Israeli PM weighed in on an agreement, stating that it "helps the war effort, and it helps our efforts to achieve victory and obviously the release of the hostages."&nbsp;

Netanyahu also claimed that he and Biden have reached a wide agreement as both believe that civilians must be evacuated from Rafah before an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) operation.&nbsp;

The war effort is served by "the extent that the world thinks that America and Israel are united", he said, further adding that he also appreciates the support that Biden has given Israel since the start of the war and "hopes it will continue until victory comes".&nbsp;

"Victory will come soon," he repeated, saying that it will come sooner, "the more united and not divided, or at least aren't giving the appearance of division."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ramadan-begins-without-ceasefire-what-it-means-for-gaza-and-rest-of-region-top-points-698717">Ramadan begins without ceasefire: What it means for Gaza and rest of the region - Top points</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Netanyahu on criticism of his policies &nbsp;</h2>

Netanyahu weighed in on the criticism of his policies for a long-term settlement with the Palestinians. He said, "When people say we have to talk with Netanyahu because he's holding back the prospect of this wondrous peace with a Palestinian state, you don't have an issue with me, you have an issue with the entire people of Israel."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Ramadan in war-torn Gaza: Hunger and&nbsp;starvation plague festivities&nbsp;

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On Sunday (Mar 10), Netanyahu reacted sharply to the recent comments by Biden that the Israeli prime minister is hurting the nation more than he is helping.&nbsp;

While speaking to Politico during an interview conducted Sunday, Netanyahu said, "the overwhelming majority of Israelis," support his policies in Gaza and the actions being taken to destroy the militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

During the Fox News interview, Netanyahu hit back at Biden's comment that going into Rafah is a "red line" for him. He noted that leaving Hamas militants there intact is a "red line".&nbsp;

"We can't let Hamas survive," he said, insisting that Israel is "not getting off the gas" in the ongoing war.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Dalton commented on perceived tensions between Biden and Netanyahu, saying that "there's no change in the strength of the two leaders' relationship".&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Mar 11) reacted to the perceived disagreement between Israel and the United States, saying that it becomes harder to defeat the militant group Hamas.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Mar 11) reacted to the perceived disagreement between Israel and the United States, saying that it becomes harder to defeat the militant group Hamas. During an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu said, "To the extent that Hamas believes that there's daylight between us, that doesn't help." This interview comes after intensified criticism from US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris over the weekend. Also read: Israel ‘verifying’ if Hamas military leader Marwan Issa was killed in Gaza The Israeli PM weighed in on an agreement, stating that it "helps the war effort, and it helps our efforts to achieve victory and obviously the release of the hostages." Netanyahu also claimed that he and Biden have reached a wide agreement as both believe that civilians must be evacuated from Rafah before an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) operation. The war effort is served by "the extent that the world thinks that America and Israel are united", he said, further adding that he also appreciates the support that Biden has given Israel since the start of the war and "hopes it will continue until victory comes". "Victory will come soon," he repeated, saying that it will come sooner, "the more united and not divided, or at least aren't giving the appearance of division." Also read: Ramadan begins without ceasefire: What it means for Gaza and rest of the region - Top points Netanyahu on criticism of his policies Netanyahu weighed in on the criticism of his policies for a long-term settlement with the Palestinians. He said, "When people say we have to talk with Netanyahu because he's holding back the prospect of this wondrous peace with a Palestinian state, you don't have an issue with me, you have an issue with the entire people of Israel." Watch: Ramadan in war-torn Gaza: Hunger and starvation plague festivities × On Sunday (Mar 10), Netanyahu reacted sharply to the recent comments by Biden that the Israeli prime minister is hurting the nation more than he is helping. While speaking to Politico during an interview conducted Sunday, Netanyahu said, "the overwhelming majority of Israelis," support his policies in Gaza and the actions being taken to destroy the militant group Hamas. During the Fox News interview, Netanyahu hit back at Biden's comment that going into Rafah is a "red line" for him. He noted that leaving Hamas militants there intact is a "red line". "We can't let Hamas survive," he said, insisting that Israel is "not getting off the gas" in the ongoing war. Meanwhile, White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Dalton commented on perceived tensions between Biden and Netanyahu, saying that "there's no change in the strength of the two leaders' relationship". 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 reacts to perceived tensions between Israel and US

Israel on Monday (Mar 11) launched fresh airstrikes on what it said were&nbsp;Hezbollah sites near Lebanon's eastern city of Baalbek marking the second raid in the region since cross-border hostilities began after the Gaza war.

<h2>Fatalities</h2>

As per&nbsp;an agency AFP report citing security sources, the strikes had killed one person and injured others.

Bashir Khader, the governor of Baalbek, also confirmed the strikes and the fatality after Israel launched four strikes, reports Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-meets-indias-national-security-advisor-ajit-doval-amid-ongoing-war-in-gaza-699142">Israeli PM Netanyahu meets India's NSA Ajit Doval; discusses humanitarian assistance amid ongoing war</a> 
&nbsp; 
Reportedly, one of the strikes hit the southern entrance to the city of Baalbek, at least 2 km (1.24 miles) from ancient Roman ruins, the security sources said.

The three other strikes hit near the city of Taraya, 20 km (12.4 miles) west of Baalbek, they added.

AFP, on the other hand, reported that "Israeli aircraft targeted a former Hezbollah building near Dar Al Amal hospital." The news agency's security source also said that Israel had "conducted another raid on a warehouse west of Baalbek".

Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA) also reported Israeli airstrikes, saying they "targeted a residential building in the town of Ansar … south of Baalbek".&nbsp;

"Fire and plumes of smoke could be seen rising from the targeted location," it added.

<h2>IDF on social media&nbsp;</h2>

On X, formerly Twitter, the Israel Defense Forces reported that its fighter jets struck two sites of the terrorist organisation Hezbollah in the area of Beqaa Valley in Lebanon.&nbsp;

"The sites belong to Hezbollah’s aerial forces that planned and carried out various attacks against Israel," said IDF.

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IDF fighter jets struck 2 Hezbollah terrorist organisation sites in the area of the Beqaa Valley in Lebanon. The sites belong to Hezbollah’s aerial forces that planned and carried out various attacks against Israel.
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1767321345585565944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The IDF has also released footage of the attack.

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IDF: A short while ago, IDF fighter jets struck two Hezbollah terrorist organization sites in the area of the Beqaa Valley in Lebanon. The sites belong to Hezbollah’s aerial forces that planned and carried out various attacks against the State of Israel. 
 
The strikes were in… <a href="https://t.co/EzurS5PTpb">pic.twitter.com/EzurS5PTpb</a>
— Joe Truzman (@JoeTruzman) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeTruzman/status/1767316370688295405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h5>&nbsp;</h5>

Since&nbsp;October 8, the day after Hamas launched an attack on Israel that left 1,200 people dead,&nbsp;Hamas ally Hezbollah and Israel have exchanged near-daily fire. The strikes have largely remained confined to border regions, but several have hit Hezbollah positions further north in recent weeks, raising fears of a full-blown conflict.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-verifying-if-hamas-military-leader-marwan-issa-was-killed-in-gaza-699109">Israel ‘verifying’ if Hamas military leader Marwan Issa was killed in Gaza</a>

The city of Baalbek, in the Beqaa valley, is a Hezbollah bastion that borders Syria. Previously, on&nbsp;February 26, Israeli strikes targeted Baalbek, located about 100 km (62.14 miles) from the border. In what was the deepest such raid into Lebanese territory since the hostilities began, two Hezbollah members were killed.

Hezbollah has repeatedly said that it would stop its attacks on Israel only after a ceasefire in Gaza. However, in a recent statement, Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant said that any truce would not change Israel's goal of pushing Hezbollah out of southern Lebanon, by force or diplomacy.

According to an AFP tally, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October, at least 316 people—mainly Hezbollah fighters—and 53 civilians have been killed in Lebanon.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

Israel on Monday (Mar 11) launched fresh airstrikes on what it said were Hezbollah sites near Lebanon's eastern city of Baalbek marking the second raid in the region since cross-border hostilities began after the Gaza war.

Israel on Monday (Mar 11) launched fresh airstrikes on what it said were Hezbollah sites near Lebanon's eastern city of Baalbek marking the second raid in the region since cross-border hostilities began after the Gaza war. Fatalities As per an agency AFP report citing security sources, the strikes had killed one person and injured others. Bashir Khader, the governor of Baalbek, also confirmed the strikes and the fatality after Israel launched four strikes, reports Reuters. Also read | Israeli PM Netanyahu meets India's NSA Ajit Doval; discusses humanitarian assistance amid ongoing war Reportedly, one of the strikes hit the southern entrance to the city of Baalbek, at least 2 km (1.24 miles) from ancient Roman ruins, the security sources said. The three other strikes hit near the city of Taraya, 20 km (12.4 miles) west of Baalbek, they added. AFP, on the other hand, reported that "Israeli aircraft targeted a former Hezbollah building near Dar Al Amal hospital." The news agency's security source also said that Israel had "conducted another raid on a warehouse west of Baalbek". Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA) also reported Israeli airstrikes, saying they "targeted a residential building in the town of Ansar … south of Baalbek". "Fire and plumes of smoke could be seen rising from the targeted location," it added. IDF on social media On X, formerly Twitter, the Israel Defense Forces reported that its fighter jets struck two sites of the terrorist organisation Hezbollah in the area of Beqaa Valley in Lebanon. "The sites belong to Hezbollah’s aerial forces that planned and carried out various attacks against Israel," said IDF. IDF fighter jets struck 2 Hezbollah terrorist organisation sites in the area of the Beqaa Valley in Lebanon. The sites belong to Hezbollah’s aerial forces that planned and carried out various attacks against Israel. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) March 11, 2024 × The IDF has also released footage of the attack. IDF: A short while ago, IDF fighter jets struck two Hezbollah terrorist organization sites in the area of the Beqaa Valley in Lebanon. The sites belong to Hezbollah’s aerial forces that planned and carried out various attacks against the State of Israel. The strikes were in… pic.twitter.com/EzurS5PTpb — Joe Truzman (@JoeTruzman) March 11, 2024 × Since October 8, the day after Hamas launched an attack on Israel that left 1,200 people dead, Hamas ally Hezbollah and Israel have exchanged near-daily fire. The strikes have largely remained confined to border regions, but several have hit Hezbollah positions further north in recent weeks, raising fears of a full-blown conflict. Also read | Israel ‘verifying’ if Hamas military leader Marwan Issa was killed in Gaza The city of Baalbek, in the Beqaa valley, is a Hezbollah bastion that borders Syria. Previously, on February 26, Israeli strikes targeted Baalbek, located about 100 km (62.14 miles) from the border. In what was the deepest such raid into Lebanese territory since the hostilities began, two Hezbollah members were killed. Hezbollah has repeatedly said that it would stop its attacks on Israel only after a ceasefire in Gaza. However, in a recent statement, Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant said that any truce would not change Israel's goal of pushing Hezbollah out of southern Lebanon, by force or diplomacy. According to an AFP tally, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October, at least 316 people—mainly Hezbollah fighters—and 53 civilians have been killed in Lebanon. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

Israel launches airstrikes against Hezbollah targets near Lebanon's Baalbek, one killed

The first day of Ramadan on Monday arrived like others for Palestinians in war-ravaged Gaza: stalked by famine and disease, shivering in tents and threatened by bombs more than five months into fighting between Israel and Hamas militants.

As the Muslim world welcomed the holy month and its customary daytime fast, many Gazans faced bombardment that saw residents once more search through the rubble of destroyed homes for survivors and bodies.

A UN report, citing the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, said 25 people have now died from malnutrition and dehydration, most of them children.

"We are running out of time," Cindy McCain, head of the World Food Programme (WFP), said on Monday. "If we do not exponentially increase the size of aid going into the northern areas" of Gaza, she said, "famine is imminent."

The United Nations has reported particular difficulty in accessing northern Gaza for deliveries of food and other aid.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-airstrikes-against-hezbollah-targets-near-lebanons-baalbek-one-killed-699147">Israel launches airstrikes against Hezbollah targets near Lebanon's Baalbek, one killed</a>

Gazans throughout the territory are feeling shortages even more during Ramadan.

"We don't know what we are going to eat to break the fast," Zaki Abu Mansour, 63, said inside his tent. "I have only a tomato and a cucumber... and I have no money to buy anything."

Any goods that are available are sold at exorbitant prices, residents say.

Fighting raged across Gaza, even as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for "silencing the guns" during the Muslim holy month and said he was "appalled and outraged that conflict is continuing".

Guterres also appealed for the removal of "all obstacles" to aid delivery.

<h2>Israeli screening</h2>

With aid entering Gaza by truck far below pre-war levels, and Gazans increasingly desperate, foreign governments have turned to airdrops and are now trying to operate a maritime aid corridor.

Jose Andres said his American charity World Central Kitchen and its partner Open Arms are "ready to sail for Gaza" from Cyprus with food aid on the new maritime corridor which the European Union had hoped could open last Sunday.

"There have been many statements made about the maritime corridor being open, and the timeline," Andres said on social media platform X. "WCK never announced departure dates."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthi-rebels-target-us-ship-pinocchio-in-red-sea-as-11-killed-in-us-british-airstrikes-699164">Houthi rebels target US ship 'Pinocchio' in Red Sea as 11 killed in US-British airstrikes</a>

A senior US administration official has said the Cyprus initiative provides a platform at the port of Larnaca for "screening by Israeli officials of Gaza-bound goods".

Cypriot government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said "this is an initiative, the complexity of which requires both due care and attention so that the ship can depart and the cargo can safely reach the civilian population of Gaza".

Israel's cumbersome screenings are a major reason current shortages are so glaring, aid workers say.

Israel, however, blames problems on the Palestinian side, saying the "ability of humanitarian organisations within the Gaza Strip to absorb the aid" dictates how much of it is let in.

Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, Israel's military spokesman, on Monday said a weekend air strike on an underground compound in central Gaza had targeted Marwan Issa, deputy head of Hamas's armed wing.

Results of the strike were still being examined, he said, and it was unclear if Issa was killed.

Hamas authorities reported at least 67 people killed since Sunday, with more than 40 air strikes across the territory.

<h2>Meagre decorations</h2>

Hamas's October 7 attack that started the war resulted in about 1,160 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP count based on Israeli official figures.

The militants also took around 250 hostages, dozens of whom were released during a week-long truce in November. Israel believes 99 hostages still in Gaza remain alive and 31 have died.

Israel's retaliatory bombardment and ground offensive has killed 31,112 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to Gaza's health ministry.

The United States and other countries again airdropped aid into northern Gaza on Monday, but outgoing Palestinian prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh said it could be delivered more efficiently via five land borders.

Humanitarian workers have made similar comments.

Weeks of talks involving US, Qatari and Egyptian mediators failed to bring about a truce and hostage exchange deal ahead of Ramadan.

Despite widespread deprivation, some Gazans found ways to celebrate Ramadan's start, fashioning meagre decorations and distributing traditional lanterns between their tents.

In Rafah, dozens of Gazans offered prayers on Ramadan's first day in the ruins of a mosque hit by an Israeli air strike just days ago.

Tens of thousands of worshippers are drawn every Ramadan to the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem -- Islam's third holiest site and the most sacred for Jews.

The site has been a flashpoint of tensions in the past and is again a focus.

<h2>A sea of tents</h2>

In Washington, President Joe Biden, facing domestic criticism in an election year for his steadfast support of Israel, said that as Muslims around the world gather to break their fast, "the suffering of the Palestinian people will be front of mind for many. It is front of mind for me."

The United States provides billions of dollars in military aid to Israel, and Biden's administration has given short shrift to activist calls to cut such funding.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under pressure from desperate families of hostages still held in Gaza as well as critics of his government, a coalition including religious and ultra-nationalist parties.

In an interview with Politico, he reiterated his intention to send troops into Rafah to root out Hamas in Gaza's southernmost tip where around 1.5 million people -- most of Gaza's population -- have tried to find refuge.

"We'll go there," he said, adding that his "red line" is that "October 7 doesn't happen again".

Many of Rafah's displaced are sheltered in a sea of makeshift tents. They sat on the ground between the structures, under a string of decorative lights, to break their fast on the first day of Ramadan.

The first day of Ramadan on Monday arrived like others for Palestinians in war-ravaged Gaza: stalked by famine and disease, shivering in tents and threatened by bombs more than five months into fighting between Israel and Hamas militants.

The first day of Ramadan on Monday arrived like others for Palestinians in war-ravaged Gaza: stalked by famine and disease, shivering in tents and threatened by bombs more than five months into fighting between Israel and Hamas militants. As the Muslim world welcomed the holy month and its customary daytime fast, many Gazans faced bombardment that saw residents once more search through the rubble of destroyed homes for survivors and bodies. A UN report, citing the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, said 25 people have now died from malnutrition and dehydration, most of them children. "We are running out of time," Cindy McCain, head of the World Food Programme (WFP), said on Monday. "If we do not exponentially increase the size of aid going into the northern areas" of Gaza, she said, "famine is imminent." The United Nations has reported particular difficulty in accessing northern Gaza for deliveries of food and other aid. Also read | Israel launches airstrikes against Hezbollah targets near Lebanon's Baalbek, one killed Gazans throughout the territory are feeling shortages even more during Ramadan. "We don't know what we are going to eat to break the fast," Zaki Abu Mansour, 63, said inside his tent. "I have only a tomato and a cucumber... and I have no money to buy anything." Any goods that are available are sold at exorbitant prices, residents say. Fighting raged across Gaza, even as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for "silencing the guns" during the Muslim holy month and said he was "appalled and outraged that conflict is continuing". Guterres also appealed for the removal of "all obstacles" to aid delivery. Israeli screening With aid entering Gaza by truck far below pre-war levels, and Gazans increasingly desperate, foreign governments have turned to airdrops and are now trying to operate a maritime aid corridor. Jose Andres said his American charity World Central Kitchen and its partner Open Arms are "ready to sail for Gaza" from Cyprus with food aid on the new maritime corridor which the European Union had hoped could open last Sunday. "There have been many statements made about the maritime corridor being open, and the timeline," Andres said on social media platform X. "WCK never announced departure dates." Also read | Houthi rebels target US ship 'Pinocchio' in Red Sea as 11 killed in US-British airstrikes A senior US administration official has said the Cyprus initiative provides a platform at the port of Larnaca for "screening by Israeli officials of Gaza-bound goods". Cypriot government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said "this is an initiative, the complexity of which requires both due care and attention so that the ship can depart and the cargo can safely reach the civilian population of Gaza". Israel's cumbersome screenings are a major reason current shortages are so glaring, aid workers say. Israel, however, blames problems on the Palestinian side, saying the "ability of humanitarian organisations within the Gaza Strip to absorb the aid" dictates how much of it is let in. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, Israel's military spokesman, on Monday said a weekend air strike on an underground compound in central Gaza had targeted Marwan Issa, deputy head of Hamas's armed wing. Results of the strike were still being examined, he said, and it was unclear if Issa was killed. Hamas authorities reported at least 67 people killed since Sunday, with more than 40 air strikes across the territory. Meagre decorations Hamas's October 7 attack that started the war resulted in about 1,160 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP count based on Israeli official figures. The militants also took around 250 hostages, dozens of whom were released during a week-long truce in November. Israel believes 99 hostages still in Gaza remain alive and 31 have died. Israel's retaliatory bombardment and ground offensive has killed 31,112 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to Gaza's health ministry. The United States and other countries again airdropped aid into northern Gaza on Monday, but outgoing Palestinian prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh said it could be delivered more efficiently via five land borders. Humanitarian workers have made similar comments. Weeks of talks involving US, Qatari and Egyptian mediators failed to bring about a truce and hostage exchange deal ahead of Ramadan. Despite widespread deprivation, some Gazans found ways to celebrate Ramadan's start, fashioning meagre decorations and distributing traditional lanterns between their tents. In Rafah, dozens of Gazans offered prayers on Ramadan's first day in the ruins of a mosque hit by an Israeli air strike just days ago. Tens of thousands of worshippers are drawn every Ramadan to the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem -- Islam's third holiest site and the most sacred for Jews. The site has been a flashpoint of tensions in the past and is again a focus. A sea of tents In Washington, President Joe Biden, facing domestic criticism in an election year for his steadfast support of Israel, said that as Muslims around the world gather to break their fast, "the suffering of the Palestinian people will be front of mind for many. It is front of mind for me." The United States provides billions of dollars in military aid to Israel, and Biden's administration has given short shrift to activist calls to cut such funding. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under pressure from desperate families of hostages still held in Gaza as well as critics of his government, a coalition including religious and ultra-nationalist parties. In an interview with Politico, he reiterated his intention to send troops into Rafah to root out Hamas in Gaza's southernmost tip where around 1.5 million people -- most of Gaza's population -- have tried to find refuge. "We'll go there," he said, adding that his "red line" is that "October 7 doesn't happen again". Many of Rafah's displaced are sheltered in a sea of makeshift tents. They sat on the ground between the structures, under a string of decorative lights, to break their fast on the first day of Ramadan.

Ramadan in Gaza: UN warns of famine as residents scramble for aid

An aid ship loaded with 200 tonnes of essential food supplies, aimed at mitigating the looming famine in the Gaza Strip, remained docked in Cyprus on Sunday night. This delay comes as the urgency to provide maritime aid builds amid stalled ceasefire talks and the onset of Ramadan.

<h2>When will the vessel depart?</h2>

According to Cyprus government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, the vessel's departure schedule would not be disclosed for security reasons.

However, reports indicate&nbsp;that "technical issues" might further postpone its departure until Monday morning.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-13000-of-31000-palestinians-killed-during-gaza-war-terrorists-claims-israeli-pm-netanyahu-698757">At least 13,000 of 31,000 Palestinians killed during Gaza war 'terrorists,' claims Israeli PM Netanyahu</a>

As per The Guardian, the World Central Kitchen (WCK), along with the Spanish charity Open Arms, had coordinated the delivery of rice, flour, lentils, beans, and canned fish and meat via an Open Arms vessel from Larnaca to Gaza. Most of this aid, as per Reuters, is funded by the UAE.

However, as of Sunday evening, the boat remained anchored in Cyprus. Letymbiotis said that the cargo had undergone inspection by Cypriot officials under an Israel-approved plan.

Although WCK spokesperson Linda Roth refrained from providing detailed logistical information due to the "evolving and fluid situation," she mentioned that Open Arms, accompanied by a barge, would set sail at the earliest opportunity.&nbsp;

Roth also said that the charities were prepared to dispatch an additional 500 tonnes of aid, funded by the UAE, with preparations underway for a floating jetty to receive the aid.

<h2>Gaza and humanitarian aid</h2>

As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza builds, international players, as per media reports, have been scrambling to find alternative routes to supply aid.

Also watch |&nbsp;Palestinians in Rafah gear up for Ramadan amidst shadow of Gaza war

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/palestinians-in-rafah-gear-up-for-ramadan-amidst-shadow-of-gaza-war-israel-hamas-war-698721/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The delay in the aid ship's departure underscores the challenges of delivering assistance to Gaza via unconventional means.&nbsp;

The shallow waters along the Gaza Strip shoreline and the lack of functioning ports pose significant obstacles to maritime operations. It also raises uncertainties about how the new "sea highway" will impact the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.

<h2>US' temporary pier</h2>

Officials in Washington, as per the report, have disclosed that a US military vessel carrying equipment for constructing a secondary temporary pier in Gaza was en route to the Mediterranean. However, they cautioned that it could take weeks before the facility became operational.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-in-talks-with-hamas-and-israel-to-restart-ceasefire-talks-report-698685">Egypt in talks with Hamas and Israel to restart ceasefire talks: Report</a>

Israel has faced repeated allegations of inadequate facilitation of humanitarian aid to Gaza's population of 2.3 million.&nbsp;

This 'open arms' mission, if successful, would effectively signal the first easing of an Israeli naval blockade imposed on Gaza in 2007 after Hamas took control of the Palestinian enclave.

(With inputs from agencies)

An aid ship loaded with 200 tonnes of essential food supplies, aimed at mitigating the looming famine in the Gaza Strip, remained docked in Cyprus on Sunday night.

An aid ship loaded with 200 tonnes of essential food supplies, aimed at mitigating the looming famine in the Gaza Strip, remained docked in Cyprus on Sunday night. This delay comes as the urgency to provide maritime aid builds amid stalled ceasefire talks and the onset of Ramadan. When will the vessel depart? According to Cyprus government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, the vessel's departure schedule would not be disclosed for security reasons. However, reports indicate that "technical issues" might further postpone its departure until Monday morning. Also read | At least 13,000 of 31,000 Palestinians killed during Gaza war 'terrorists,' claims Israeli PM Netanyahu As per The Guardian, the World Central Kitchen (WCK), along with the Spanish charity Open Arms, had coordinated the delivery of rice, flour, lentils, beans, and canned fish and meat via an Open Arms vessel from Larnaca to Gaza. Most of this aid, as per Reuters, is funded by the UAE. However, as of Sunday evening, the boat remained anchored in Cyprus. Letymbiotis said that the cargo had undergone inspection by Cypriot officials under an Israel-approved plan. Although WCK spokesperson Linda Roth refrained from providing detailed logistical information due to the "evolving and fluid situation," she mentioned that Open Arms, accompanied by a barge, would set sail at the earliest opportunity. Roth also said that the charities were prepared to dispatch an additional 500 tonnes of aid, funded by the UAE, with preparations underway for a floating jetty to receive the aid. Gaza and humanitarian aid As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza builds, international players, as per media reports, have been scrambling to find alternative routes to supply aid. Also watch | Palestinians in Rafah gear up for Ramadan amidst shadow of Gaza war The delay in the aid ship's departure underscores the challenges of delivering assistance to Gaza via unconventional means. The shallow waters along the Gaza Strip shoreline and the lack of functioning ports pose significant obstacles to maritime operations. It also raises uncertainties about how the new "sea highway" will impact the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. US' temporary pier Officials in Washington, as per the report, have disclosed that a US military vessel carrying equipment for constructing a secondary temporary pier in Gaza was en route to the Mediterranean. However, they cautioned that it could take weeks before the facility became operational. Also read | Egypt in talks with Hamas and Israel to restart ceasefire talks: Report Israel has faced repeated allegations of inadequate facilitation of humanitarian aid to Gaza's population of 2.3 million. This 'open arms' mission, if successful, would effectively signal the first easing of an Israeli naval blockade imposed on Gaza in 2007 after Hamas took control of the Palestinian enclave. (With inputs from agencies)

Ship carrying 200 tonnes of essential food supplies to Gaza stuck in Cyprus due to 'technical issues'

Benjamin Netanyahu reacted to the recent comments by United States President Joe Biden that the Israeli prime minister is hurting the nation more than he is helping.&nbsp;

While speaking to Politico during an interview conducted Sunday (Mar 10), Netanyahu said "the overwhelming majority of Israelis," support his policies in Gaza and the actions being taken to destroy the militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

"I don't know what the president (Biden) meant, but if he meant that I lead a policy against the majority of the Israeli public and that it harms Israel's interests, he is wrong on both counts," he said.&nbsp;

The Israeli PM further added, "This is not just my private policy, it is a policy supported by the vast majority of Israelis".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-in-talks-with-hamas-and-israel-to-restart-ceasefire-talks-report-698685">Egypt in talks with Hamas and Israel to restart ceasefire talks: Report</a>&nbsp;

Netanyahu further added that most of the Israelis understand that "if we don't do this, we will return to the October 7 massacre".&nbsp;

The ongoing war started after Hamas militants launched an unprecedented cross-border attack on Israel, killing about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, and official Israeli figures.&nbsp;

Hamas had also taken some 250 people as hostages, some of them were later returned as part of a deal in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;

In the aftermath of the October 7 attack, Israel responded with several strikes on Gaza that have killed more than 30,000 people, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.&nbsp;

Netanyahu underlined Israeli sentiments regarding the Palestinian Authority's involvement in Gaza. He stated, "Once we have eliminated Hamas, the last thing we should do is bring the Palestinian Authority into Gaza, which educates its children in terrorism and finances terrorism."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US President Biden says 'Israel can't have 30,000 more Palestinians dead'&nbsp;

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-canada-sweden-to-resume-funding-to-unrwa-but-still-taking-terror-allegations-seriously-698589">Canada, Sweden to resume funding to UNRWA but still taking terror allegations seriously</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Delegation of Israeli hostages' families heads to New York</h2>

A special delegation of families of hostages will attend the UN Security Council Discussion in New York at the directive of PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Foreign Affairs Israel Katz.&nbsp;

Netanyahu spoke with Katz and wished him success ahead of his trip to New York this evening for the UNSC discussion on the findings of the report on Hamas's severe sex crimes on October 7.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Benjamin Netanyahu reacted to the recent comments by United States President Joe Biden that the Israeli prime minister is hurting the nation more than he is helping.

Benjamin Netanyahu reacted to the recent comments by United States President Joe Biden that the Israeli prime minister is hurting the nation more than he is helping. While speaking to Politico during an interview conducted Sunday (Mar 10), Netanyahu said "the overwhelming majority of Israelis," support his policies in Gaza and the actions being taken to destroy the militant group Hamas. "I don't know what the president (Biden) meant, but if he meant that I lead a policy against the majority of the Israeli public and that it harms Israel's interests, he is wrong on both counts," he said. The Israeli PM further added, "This is not just my private policy, it is a policy supported by the vast majority of Israelis". Also read: Egypt in talks with Hamas and Israel to restart ceasefire talks: Report Netanyahu further added that most of the Israelis understand that "if we don't do this, we will return to the October 7 massacre". The ongoing war started after Hamas militants launched an unprecedented cross-border attack on Israel, killing about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, and official Israeli figures. Hamas had also taken some 250 people as hostages, some of them were later returned as part of a deal in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. In the aftermath of the October 7 attack, Israel responded with several strikes on Gaza that have killed more than 30,000 people, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. Netanyahu underlined Israeli sentiments regarding the Palestinian Authority's involvement in Gaza. He stated, "Once we have eliminated Hamas, the last thing we should do is bring the Palestinian Authority into Gaza, which educates its children in terrorism and finances terrorism." Watch: US President Biden says 'Israel can't have 30,000 more Palestinians dead' × Also read: Canada, Sweden to resume funding to UNRWA but still taking terror allegations seriously Delegation of Israeli hostages' families heads to New York A special delegation of families of hostages will attend the UN Security Council Discussion in New York at the directive of PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Foreign Affairs Israel Katz. Netanyahu spoke with Katz and wished him success ahead of his trip to New York this evening for the UNSC discussion on the findings of the report on Hamas's severe sex crimes on October 7. 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 rebuffs Biden’s remarks, says ‘majority of Israelis’ support his Gaza policy

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Mar 10) asserted that among the nearly 31,000 Palestinians killed during the ongoing Israel conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, at least 13,000 were "terrorists".&nbsp;With this claim, he vowed to continue the offensive in the southern part of the enclave, an action that US President Joe Biden has recently labelled as his "red line".

<h2>Casualties of war</h2>

As per a Reuters report, while the Gaza health ministry does not provide a breakdown of civilian versus militant casualties, it notes that 72 per cent of those killed were women and children. Furthermore, Hamas disputes Israel's figures for militants, dismissing them as attempts aimed at "fake victories".

Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/majority-of-israelis-support-his-policies-netanyahu-hits-back-at-biden-698712">Netanyahu rebuffs Biden’s remarks, says ‘majority of Israelis’ support his Gaza policy</a>

Talking to German media company Axel Springer, Netanyahu emphasised the importance of expanding Israel's offensive into Rafah in southern Gaza and said it was key to defeating Hamas.&nbsp;

"We are very close to victory … Once we begin military action against the remaining terror battalions in Rafah, it is only a question of weeks&nbsp;for the intensive phase of fighting to conclude," he said, as quoted by Bild newspaper.&nbsp;

<h2>Biden's 'red line'</h2>

This comes as Israel's ally, United States&nbsp;President Joe Biden and his advisors have urged Netanyahu in strong terms against launching a major offensive in Rafah without a comprehensive plan for civilian evacuation. Over half of Gaza's 2.3 million population is currently sheltering in the Rafah area.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ramadan-begins-without-ceasefire-what-it-means-for-gaza-and-rest-of-region-top-points-698717">Ramadan begins without ceasefire: What it means for Gaza and rest of the region - Top points</a>

On Saturday (Mar 9), when asked by MSNBC, whether the invasion of Rafah was a red line, Biden stressed the importance of Israel's defence while emphasising ongoing support.

"It is a red line, but I'm never going to leave Israel. The defence of Israel is still critical. So there's no red line (in which) I'm going to cut off all weapons so they don't have the Iron Dome to protect them," he said.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gazans preparing for Ramadan under the shadow of the Israel war | Israel-Hamas War

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gazans-preparing-for-ramadan-under-the-shadow-of-the-israel-war-israel-hamas-war-698713/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Netanyahu, in remarks quoted by Politico, affirmed his determination to proceed into Rafah and said: "You know, I have a red line. You know what the red line is, that October 7 doesn't happen again. Never happens again."

As per Bild, he also claimed that three-quarters of Hamas battalions had been destroyed and cautioned against halting the offensive prematurely, warning that it would allow the militants to regroup.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Mar 10) asserted that among the nearly 31,000 Palestinians killed during the ongoing Israel conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, at least 13,000 were "terrorists".

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Mar 10) asserted that among the nearly 31,000 Palestinians killed during the ongoing Israel conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, at least 13,000 were "terrorists". With this claim, he vowed to continue the offensive in the southern part of the enclave, an action that US President Joe Biden has recently labelled as his "red line". Casualties of war As per a Reuters report, while the Gaza health ministry does not provide a breakdown of civilian versus militant casualties, it notes that 72 per cent of those killed were women and children. Furthermore, Hamas disputes Israel's figures for militants, dismissing them as attempts aimed at "fake victories". Also read | Netanyahu rebuffs Biden’s remarks, says ‘majority of Israelis’ support his Gaza policy Talking to German media company Axel Springer, Netanyahu emphasised the importance of expanding Israel's offensive into Rafah in southern Gaza and said it was key to defeating Hamas. "We are very close to victory … Once we begin military action against the remaining terror battalions in Rafah, it is only a question of weeks for the intensive phase of fighting to conclude," he said, as quoted by Bild newspaper. Biden's 'red line' This comes as Israel's ally, United States President Joe Biden and his advisors have urged Netanyahu in strong terms against launching a major offensive in Rafah without a comprehensive plan for civilian evacuation. Over half of Gaza's 2.3 million population is currently sheltering in the Rafah area. Also read | Ramadan begins without ceasefire: What it means for Gaza and rest of the region - Top points On Saturday (Mar 9), when asked by MSNBC, whether the invasion of Rafah was a red line, Biden stressed the importance of Israel's defence while emphasising ongoing support. "It is a red line, but I'm never going to leave Israel. The defence of Israel is still critical. So there's no red line (in which) I'm going to cut off all weapons so they don't have the Iron Dome to protect them," he said. Also watch | Gazans preparing for Ramadan under the shadow of the Israel war | Israel-Hamas War Netanyahu, in remarks quoted by Politico, affirmed his determination to proceed into Rafah and said: "You know, I have a red line. You know what the red line is, that October 7 doesn't happen again. Never happens again." As per Bild, he also claimed that three-quarters of Hamas battalions had been destroyed and cautioned against halting the offensive prematurely, warning that it would allow the militants to regroup. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 13,000 of 31,000 Palestinians killed during Gaza war are terrorists, claims Israeli PM Netanyahu

Dozens of Muslim worshippers gathered at New York Times Square on Sunday (Mar 10) to observe the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, with some showing solidarity with the people in Gaza by displaying Palestinian flags.&nbsp;

The gatherers, as per an AFP report, performed special Ramadan night prayers called Taraweeh.

<h2>Come ye faithful</h2>

Despite the cold and windy conditions, more than 100 faithful gathered for the prayer meeting, with a vocalist chanting Nasheeds and children reciting from the Qur'an, copies of which were offered to both Muslims and curious passers-by.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-13000-of-31000-palestinians-killed-during-gaza-war-terrorists-claims-israeli-pm-netanyahu-698757">At least 13,000 of 31,000 Palestinians killed during Gaza war 'terrorists,' claims Israeli PM Netanyahu</a>

20-year-old Ahmad Yasar, an IT student in New York, told AFP that communal prayer meetings were important to "raise awareness and show people what's going around the world," including in Gaza.

At the gathering, many people were seen supporting the red, white, green, and black colours of the Palestinian flag. One speaker had them emblazoned on his hat, while a young boy in an electric wheelchair flew the banner.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gazans preparing for Ramadan under the shadow of the Israel war | Israel-Hamas War

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gazans-preparing-for-ramadan-under-the-shadow-of-the-israel-war-israel-hamas-war-698713/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Talking to NY1, Sohail Qureshi, the organiser of the event, said, "This Ramadan is hurting us a little more because of our brothers and sisters in Palestine."

<h2>Ramadan&nbsp;</h2>

Observant Muslims refrain from eating and drinking from dawn to dusk during Ramadan and gather with family and friends to break the fast in the evening. It is also a month of prayers during which Muslims traditionally converge in large numbers at mosques, especially at night.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ship-carrying-200-tonnes-of-essential-food-supplies-to-gaza-stuck-in-cyprus-due-to-technical-issues-698793">Ship carrying 200 tonnes of essential food supplies to Gaza stuck in Cyprus due to 'technical issues'</a>

Organisers projected prayers from the Qur'an and their English translations onto a white sheet that was buffeted by the wind as giant ads for Broadway musicals and candy glowed overhead.&nbsp;

As per The National News, this was the second time in a row that hundreds of Ramadan observing Muslims broke their fast and held Taraweeh prayers at New York's Times Square.

(With inputs from agencies)

Dozens of Muslim worshippers gathered at New York Times Square on Sunday (Mar 10) to observe the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, with some showing solidarity with the people in Gaza by displaying Palestinian flags.

Dozens of Muslim worshippers gathered at New York Times Square on Sunday (Mar 10) to observe the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, with some showing solidarity with the people in Gaza by displaying Palestinian flags. The gatherers, as per an AFP report, performed special Ramadan night prayers called Taraweeh. Come ye faithful Despite the cold and windy conditions, more than 100 faithful gathered for the prayer meeting, with a vocalist chanting Nasheeds and children reciting from the Qur'an, copies of which were offered to both Muslims and curious passers-by. Also read | At least 13,000 of 31,000 Palestinians killed during Gaza war 'terrorists,' claims Israeli PM Netanyahu 20-year-old Ahmad Yasar, an IT student in New York, told AFP that communal prayer meetings were important to "raise awareness and show people what's going around the world," including in Gaza. At the gathering, many people were seen supporting the red, white, green, and black colours of the Palestinian flag. One speaker had them emblazoned on his hat, while a young boy in an electric wheelchair flew the banner. Also watch | Gazans preparing for Ramadan under the shadow of the Israel war | Israel-Hamas War Talking to NY1, Sohail Qureshi, the organiser of the event, said, "This Ramadan is hurting us a little more because of our brothers and sisters in Palestine." Ramadan Observant Muslims refrain from eating and drinking from dawn to dusk during Ramadan and gather with family and friends to break the fast in the evening. It is also a month of prayers during which Muslims traditionally converge in large numbers at mosques, especially at night. Also read | Ship carrying 200 tonnes of essential food supplies to Gaza stuck in Cyprus due to 'technical issues' Organisers projected prayers from the Qur'an and their English translations onto a white sheet that was buffeted by the wind as giant ads for Broadway musicals and candy glowed overhead. As per The National News, this was the second time in a row that hundreds of Ramadan observing Muslims broke their fast and held Taraweeh prayers at New York's Times Square. (With inputs from agencies)

Ramadan begins: Muslims in Times Square hold prayer vigil, show solidarity with Gaza

Philippe Lazzarini, the chief of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), said that the agency was at risk of death and also at risk of dismantlement after the Israeli government alleged that some of the agency's staff took part in Hamas' October 7 attack last year.

Philippe Lazzarini, the chief of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), said that the agency was at risk of death and also at risk of dismantlement after the Israeli government alleged that some of the agency's staff took part in Hamas' October 7 attack last year. In an interview with Swiss broadcaster RTS that was aired on Saturday (Mar 9), Lazzarini said that he was cautiously optimistic some donors would start funding it again within weeks. "I am cautiously optimistic that within the next few weeks, and also following the publication of Catherine Colonna's report, a number of donors will return," Lazzarini said. Also read | Israel strikes key residential tower in southern Rafah as ceasefire talks stall Israel had accused 12 of UNRWA's 13,000 staff in the war-torn Gaza Strip of involvement in the October 7 attack. Following the accusation, several countries, including the United States, stopped funding the agency. 'If we got rid of UNRWA...' UNRWA fired some staff members, saying it acted to protect the agency's ability to deliver humanitarian assistance. A report by the news agency Reuters said that an independent review of the agency had been launched under French former foreign minister Catherine Colonna. A final report on the matter is expected to be published in April. In Gaza, the agency runs schools, healthcare clinics, and other social services, and also distributes humanitarian aid. "What is at stake is the fate of the Palestinians today in Gaza in the short term who are going through an absolutely unprecedented humanitarian crisis," Lazzarini told RTS, adding, that the UNRWA is the only agency that delivers public services to Palestinian refugees. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Hopes for ceasefire in Gaza fade as truce talks yield no results × "We are the quasi-ministry of education, of primary health. If we were to get rid of such a body, who would bring back the millions of girls and boys who are traumatised in the Gaza Strip today back to a learning environment?" he further said. UNRWA slams Israel for threats to detained staff Last month, the UNRWA said in a report that some of its employees released into Gaza from Israeli detention reported having been pressured by Israeli authorities into falsely stating that the agency has Hamas links and the staff took part in the October 7 attack. The report said that several UNRWA Palestinian staffers had been detained by the Israeli army, and added that the ill-treatment and abuse they said they had experienced included severe physical beatings, waterboarding, and threats of harm to family members. "Agency staff members have been subject to threats and coercion by the Israeli authorities while in detention, and pressured to make false statements against the Agency, including that the Agency has affiliations with Hamas and that UNRWA staff members took part in the 7 October 2023 atrocities,” the report added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: UNRWA chief says agency is ‘at risk of death’

Egypt was reportedly in talks with senior Hamas and Israeli officials&nbsp;as well as other mediators, on Sunday (Mar 10) to relaunch talks for a Gaza Strip truce during Ramadan.&nbsp;

Citing sources, the Reuters news agency, reported that Egypt's contacts with Hamas and Israeli intelligence agency Mossad on Sunday were carried out under a mandate from the Egyptian presidency to bring the two sides' divergent positions together.&nbsp;

This development comes even as Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have been attempting to reach an agreement for a ceasefire during Ramadan in exchange for the release of Israeli hostages, who were abducted during October 7 strikes.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-canada-sweden-to-resume-funding-to-unrwa-but-still-taking-terror-allegations-seriously-698589">Canada, Sweden to resume funding to UNRWA but still taking terror allegations seriously</a>&nbsp;

The most recent round of discussions, which did not include Israel, ended this week in Cairo.

Israel's intelligence agency Mossad said on Saturday that efforts are being made to secure a deal on a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. &nbsp;

David Barnea, who is Mossad chief, met on Friday with his US counterpart, CIA Director William Burns, to promote a deal that would see hostages released.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-president-isaac-herzog-attends-opening-of-holocaust-museum-in-amsterdam-amid-pro-palestinian-protests-698653">Israeli President Isaac Herzog attends opening of Holocaust museum in Amsterdam amid pro-Palestine protests</a>&nbsp;

In a statement, which was distributed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, Mossad said that US President Joe Biden said on Saturday that Burns remained in the region.&nbsp;

"Contacts and cooperation with the mediators continue all the time to narrow the gaps and reach agreements," Mossad said in the statement.&nbsp;

Israel and Hamas, the militant Islamist group that rules the Palestinian enclave and has been locked in a war with Israeli forces since its deadly October 7 rampage in southern Israel, have traded blame over the apparent deadlock in talks in the run-up to Ramadan, which begins on or around March 10.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US President Biden says 'Israel can't have 30,000 more Palestinians dead'&nbsp;

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<h2>First day of Ramadan this year&nbsp;</h2>

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has declared Monday (Mar 11) as the first day of Ramadan this year. The UAE's Moon-sighting committee said on Sunday that the crescent Moon was spotted on Sunday evening.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Egypt was reportedly in talks with senior Hamas and Israeli officials as well as other mediators, on Sunday (Mar 10) to relaunch talks for a Gaza Strip truce during Ramadan.

Egypt was reportedly in talks with senior Hamas and Israeli officials as well as other mediators, on Sunday (Mar 10) to relaunch talks for a Gaza Strip truce during Ramadan. Citing sources, the Reuters news agency, reported that Egypt's contacts with Hamas and Israeli intelligence agency Mossad on Sunday were carried out under a mandate from the Egyptian presidency to bring the two sides' divergent positions together. This development comes even as Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have been attempting to reach an agreement for a ceasefire during Ramadan in exchange for the release of Israeli hostages, who were abducted during October 7 strikes. Also read: Canada, Sweden to resume funding to UNRWA but still taking terror allegations seriously The most recent round of discussions, which did not include Israel, ended this week in Cairo. Israel's intelligence agency Mossad said on Saturday that efforts are being made to secure a deal on a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. David Barnea, who is Mossad chief, met on Friday with his US counterpart, CIA Director William Burns, to promote a deal that would see hostages released. Also read: Israeli President Isaac Herzog attends opening of Holocaust museum in Amsterdam amid pro-Palestine protests In a statement, which was distributed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, Mossad said that US President Joe Biden said on Saturday that Burns remained in the region. "Contacts and cooperation with the mediators continue all the time to narrow the gaps and reach agreements," Mossad said in the statement. Israel and Hamas, the militant Islamist group that rules the Palestinian enclave and has been locked in a war with Israeli forces since its deadly October 7 rampage in southern Israel, have traded blame over the apparent deadlock in talks in the run-up to Ramadan, which begins on or around March 10. Watch: US President Biden says 'Israel can't have 30,000 more Palestinians dead' × First day of Ramadan this year The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has declared Monday (Mar 11) as the first day of Ramadan this year. The UAE's Moon-sighting committee said on Sunday that the crescent Moon was spotted on Sunday evening. 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)

Egypt in talks with Hamas and Israel to restart ceasefire talks: Report

India on Sunday (Mar 10) signed a free trade pact with the four-nation European Free Trade Association (EFTA) in New Delhi. India will now lift most import tariffs on industrial products from Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein in return for investment of $100 billion over 15 years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the deal as a 'watershed moment' for India, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) said on Sunday that Monday (Mar 11) will be the first day of Ramadan. The UAE's Moon-sighting committee said on Sunday that the crescent Moon — which signals the start of a month in the Islamic Hijri calendar — was spotted on Sunday evening.&nbsp;

In other news from around the world, Asif Ali Zardari, the widower of former assassinated Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto, took oath on Sunday as the 14th president of Pakistan.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-seals-free-trade-agreement-with-four-nation-european-bloc-698498">India seals free trade agreement with four-nation European bloc</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/10/417455-untitled-design-2024-03-10t121650143.png?imwidth=400" />

India signed a free trade pact with&nbsp;the four-nation European Free Trade Association (EFTA) in New Delhi on Sunday (Mar&nbsp;10). Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the deal as a 'watershed moment' for India, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-uae-declares-march-11-as-first-day-of-ramadan-this-year-698663">UAE declares March 11 as first day of Ramadan this year</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/10/417538-untitled-design-5.png?imwidth=400" />

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) declared Monday (Mar 11) as the first day of Ramadan this year. According to a report by the Khaleej Times, the UAE's Moon-sighting committee said on Sunday that the crescent Moon — which signals the start of a month in the Islamic Hijri calendar — was spotted on Sunday evening.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asif-ali-zardari-sworn-in-as-pakistans-president-for-record-second-time-698634">Asif Ali Zardari sworn-in as Pakistan’s president for record second time</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/10/417519-untitled-design-2024-03-10t185841787.png?imwidth=400" />

Asif Ali Zardari, the widower of former assassinated Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto, took oath on Sunday (March 10) as the 14th president of the South Asian country. Zardari, backed by Pakistan Peoples' Party and Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) secured 411 votes against 181 votes secured by Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf-backed Mahmood Khan Achakzai.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-president-isaac-herzog-attends-opening-of-holocaust-museum-in-amsterdam-amid-pro-palestinian-protests-698653">Israeli President Isaac Herzog attends opening of Holocaust museum in Amsterdam amid pro-Palestine protests</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/10/417531-succession-2024-03-10t203018233.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Sunday (March 10) attended the opening of the National Holocaust Museum in Amsterdam even as pro-Palestine protesters staged demonstrations in the country demanding a ceasefire in the Gaza war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-couple-arrested-after-2-dead-babies-discovered-in-glass-bottles-in-flat-698640">Hong Kong: Couple arrested after 2 dead babies discovered in glass bottles in flat</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/18/412862-police-car.png?imwidth=400" />

In Hong Kong, two babies were discovered inside glass jars by a cleaning person in the main room of a vacant flat. A report by the South China Morning Post mentioned police as saying on Sunday that both children lacked birth records, and preliminary autopsies failed to confirm the time and cause of death.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/customs-find-cocaine-and-heroin-hidden-inside-passengers-guts-in-saudi-arabia-698563">Saudi Arabia customs officials find cocaine and heroin hidden in passengers’ guts</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/10/417482-pic-10.png?imwidth=400" />

The customs authorities in Saudi Arabia said that they were able to stop many air passengers from smuggling cocaine and heroin they had hidden in&nbsp;their guts.&nbsp;This is not the first time that such bizarre attempts have been made by passengers to smuggle cocaine into Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-doctors-accused-of-harvesting-organs-of-death-row-inmates-attended-oxford-universitys-sessions-698610">Chinese doctors accused of harvesting organs of death row inmates attended Oxford University’s sessions</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/10/417508-untitled-design-2024-03-10t173518561.png?imwidth=400" />

Oxford University has been accused of holding training programmes that were attended by Chinese transplant doctors facing serious allegations of illegally harvesting human organs, The Telegraph reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-man-falls-into-40-feet-borewell-multi-agency-rescue-operation-underway-amid-suspected-foul-play-698538">Delhi man dies after falling into 40-foot borewell</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/10/417468-untitled-design-2024-03-10t140706794.png?imwidth=400" />

In a tragedy that has set the ball of suspected foul play rolling in the Indian capital, a person previously thought to be a child died after falling into a 40-foot-deep borewell inside a water plant near Keshopur Mandi on the western side of Delhi on Sunday (March 10). The development was confirmed by Delhi Minister Atishi.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-kolkata-knight-riders-bring-in-phil-salt-to-replace-jason-roy-698650">IPL 2024: Kolkata Knight Riders bring in Phil Salt to replace Jason Roy</a>

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&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders have brought in England opener Phil Salt to replace his compatriot Jason Roy in the squad for IPL 2024. Roy pulled out of the upcoming season for ‘personal reasons’. Salt, who played for Delhi Capitals (DC) last season, will walk in as his replacement at the top, providing former winners with a keeper’s option also.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/first-photo-of-kate-middleton-with-kids-released-post-surgery-thanks-public-for-support-698628">Kate Middleton shares first photo with kids post surgery, thanks public for support</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/10/417512-happy-30th-birthday-2024-03-10t180001100.png?imwidth=400" />

On the occasion of UK Mother's Day, the first photo of Kate Middleton&nbsp;with her kids has been&nbsp;released. This is the Princess of Wales' first picture&nbsp;since her abdominal surgery in January and speculations regarding her health.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India on Sunday (Mar 10) signed a free trade pact with the four-nation European Free Trade Association (EFTA) in New Delhi. India will now lift most import tariffs on industrial products from Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein in return for investment of $100 billion over 15 years.

India on Sunday (Mar 10) signed a free trade pact with the four-nation European Free Trade Association (EFTA) in New Delhi. India will now lift most import tariffs on industrial products from Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein in return for investment of $100 billion over 15 years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the deal as a 'watershed moment' for India, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) said on Sunday that Monday (Mar 11) will be the first day of Ramadan. The UAE's Moon-sighting committee said on Sunday that the crescent Moon — which signals the start of a month in the Islamic Hijri calendar — was spotted on Sunday evening. In other news from around the world, Asif Ali Zardari, the widower of former assassinated Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto, took oath on Sunday as the 14th president of Pakistan. Click on the headlines to read more: India seals free trade agreement with four-nation European bloc India signed a free trade pact with the four-nation European Free Trade Association (EFTA) in New Delhi on Sunday (Mar 10). Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the deal as a 'watershed moment' for India, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. UAE declares March 11 as first day of Ramadan this year The United Arab Emirates (UAE) declared Monday (Mar 11) as the first day of Ramadan this year. According to a report by the Khaleej Times, the UAE's Moon-sighting committee said on Sunday that the crescent Moon — which signals the start of a month in the Islamic Hijri calendar — was spotted on Sunday evening. Asif Ali Zardari sworn-in as Pakistan’s president for record second time Asif Ali Zardari, the widower of former assassinated Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto, took oath on Sunday (March 10) as the 14th president of the South Asian country. Zardari, backed by Pakistan Peoples' Party and Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) secured 411 votes against 181 votes secured by Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf-backed Mahmood Khan Achakzai. Israeli President Isaac Herzog attends opening of Holocaust museum in Amsterdam amid pro-Palestine protests Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Sunday (March 10) attended the opening of the National Holocaust Museum in Amsterdam even as pro-Palestine protesters staged demonstrations in the country demanding a ceasefire in the Gaza war. Hong Kong: Couple arrested after 2 dead babies discovered in glass bottles in flat In Hong Kong, two babies were discovered inside glass jars by a cleaning person in the main room of a vacant flat. A report by the South China Morning Post mentioned police as saying on Sunday that both children lacked birth records, and preliminary autopsies failed to confirm the time and cause of death. Saudi Arabia customs officials find cocaine and heroin hidden in passengers’ guts The customs authorities in Saudi Arabia said that they were able to stop many air passengers from smuggling cocaine and heroin they had hidden in their guts. This is not the first time that such bizarre attempts have been made by passengers to smuggle cocaine into Saudi Arabia. Chinese doctors accused of harvesting organs of death row inmates attended Oxford University’s sessions Oxford University has been accused of holding training programmes that were attended by Chinese transplant doctors facing serious allegations of illegally harvesting human organs, The Telegraph reported. Delhi man dies after falling into 40-foot borewell In a tragedy that has set the ball of suspected foul play rolling in the Indian capital, a person previously thought to be a child died after falling into a 40-foot-deep borewell inside a water plant near Keshopur Mandi on the western side of Delhi on Sunday (March 10). The development was confirmed by Delhi Minister Atishi. IPL 2024: Kolkata Knight Riders bring in Phil Salt to replace Jason Roy Kolkata Knight Riders have brought in England opener Phil Salt to replace his compatriot Jason Roy in the squad for IPL 2024. Roy pulled out of the upcoming season for ‘personal reasons’. Salt, who played for Delhi Capitals (DC) last season, will walk in as his replacement at the top, providing former winners with a keeper’s option also. Kate Middleton shares first photo with kids post surgery, thanks public for support On the occasion of UK Mother's Day, the first photo of Kate Middleton with her kids has been released. This is the Princess of Wales' first picture since her abdominal surgery in January and speculations regarding her health.

Top 10 world news: India seals FTA with four-nation European bloc, and more

The world looks the other way as Gaza cries in isolation. Israel's determination to wipe out Hamas has created a humanitarian crisis which worsens with every passing day.&nbsp;

Amidst the deafening roar of Israeli bombs raining down on Gaza, a faint whisper echoes from the Western halls of power – a hollow promise of aid and relief.

As the holy month of Ramadan dawns, the cries of the wounded and the desperate pleas for help pierce through the rubble-strewn streets of the besieged enclave. Famine, that grim spectre of human suffering, now looms large. For Gazans, hunger is becoming a bigger threat than the incessant bombing by the Israeli troops. But the West continues to do lip service and portray a holier-than-thou image.&nbsp;

West's response reads like a twisted symphony of political expediency, draped in the cloak of hollow gestures. As Israel continues its relentless bombardment, the Western powers extend a feeble Band-Aid to a gaping bullet wound, perpetuating a shameful charade that places geopolitical calculations above the cries of the suffering.&nbsp;

The United States, a key player in this macabre theatre, is making all the right noises. President Joe Biden is making bold statements, urging Israel to pay heed to the humanitarian crisis in the besieged strip. But Bibi (Benjamin Netanyahu) isn't listening to Biden. The U.S. President in a hot mic moment said he told Netanyahu that the two of them were headed for a "come to Jesus" meeting. Behind the hyperbole, the fact is that the U.S. is accused of fanning the flames by providing military support and diplomatic cover to Israel.&nbsp;

Israel despite international pleas to help Israel is only allowing a trickle of aid to enter the enclave where 2.3 million people are desperate for food and other necessities. Well, the aid can enter the Gaza Strip from the existing crossings, namely Kerem Shalom and Rafah from Egypt. But Israel is blocking these gateways. All it would need is a strong phone call from the Oval Office to make Israel open the gates and let the hundreds of trucks enter. &nbsp;

Amid UN warnings of famine among the territory's 2.3 million people the West decided to use the skies to show their concern. Multiple planes are dropping aid. Huge packages promising to contain food are dropping via parachute. On the land, desperate Gazans are running to get a morsel of food. But on Friday, 5 people were killed when aid packages crash-landed. The U.S. was quick to state that it wasn't an American plane that dropped the 'killer' aid.&nbsp;

Now taking the hypocrisy to another level, the Western leaders decided to look at the map of Gaza and realised that there is an open sea on one side. Voila, the European leaders, are working on a plan to open a maritime corridor and temporary pontoon bridge to send aid to the desperate Gazans. A pitiful attempt at placating the conscience, all the while Israel maintains an iron grip over Gaza's maritime territory. The West possesses the means to force Israel's hand, but instead, it chooses the path of least resistance – a circuitous sea route that conveniently absolves Israel of responsibility.&nbsp;

This is not charity; this is a diplomatic charade. The West, far from a mere bystander, is an active accomplice in the suffering of the Palestinian people. The illegal blockade imposed by Israel, condemned by the UN, stands as a collective punishment against an entire population – a stark violation of international law, a humanitarian crisis fueled by political expediency. The actions of Hamas on October 7 were rightly condemned by the world in the harshest words. 1,139 people, mostly civilians, were killed in the attack, and about 240 others were seized as captives. Hamas must be punished. The hostages should be returned but what about the over 31,000 people killed in Gaza? The international community must rise above symbolic gestures, demanding real action to hold Israel accountable under international law and alleviate the immense humanitarian needs in Gaza.&nbsp;

The time for symbolic Band-Aids is over. The people of Gaza cry out for genuine, resolute action – not palliatives on a festering bullet wound. The world must unite to break the shackles of political alliances and prioritise human life over geopolitical expediency.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

The world looks the other way as Gaza cries in isolation. Israel's determination to wipe out Hamas has created a humanitarian crisis which worsens with every passing day.

The world looks the other way as Gaza cries in isolation. Israel's determination to wipe out Hamas has created a humanitarian crisis which worsens with every passing day. Amidst the deafening roar of Israeli bombs raining down on Gaza, a faint whisper echoes from the Western halls of power – a hollow promise of aid and relief. As the holy month of Ramadan dawns, the cries of the wounded and the desperate pleas for help pierce through the rubble-strewn streets of the besieged enclave. Famine, that grim spectre of human suffering, now looms large. For Gazans, hunger is becoming a bigger threat than the incessant bombing by the Israeli troops. But the West continues to do lip service and portray a holier-than-thou image. West's response reads like a twisted symphony of political expediency, draped in the cloak of hollow gestures. As Israel continues its relentless bombardment, the Western powers extend a feeble Band-Aid to a gaping bullet wound, perpetuating a shameful charade that places geopolitical calculations above the cries of the suffering. The United States, a key player in this macabre theatre, is making all the right noises. President Joe Biden is making bold statements, urging Israel to pay heed to the humanitarian crisis in the besieged strip. But Bibi (Benjamin Netanyahu) isn't listening to Biden. The U.S. President in a hot mic moment said he told Netanyahu that the two of them were headed for a "come to Jesus" meeting. Behind the hyperbole, the fact is that the U.S. is accused of fanning the flames by providing military support and diplomatic cover to Israel. Israel despite international pleas to help Israel is only allowing a trickle of aid to enter the enclave where 2.3 million people are desperate for food and other necessities. Well, the aid can enter the Gaza Strip from the existing crossings, namely Kerem Shalom and Rafah from Egypt. But Israel is blocking these gateways. All it would need is a strong phone call from the Oval Office to make Israel open the gates and let the hundreds of trucks enter. Amid UN warnings of famine among the territory's 2.3 million people the West decided to use the skies to show their concern. Multiple planes are dropping aid. Huge packages promising to contain food are dropping via parachute. On the land, desperate Gazans are running to get a morsel of food. But on Friday, 5 people were killed when aid packages crash-landed. The U.S. was quick to state that it wasn't an American plane that dropped the 'killer' aid. Now taking the hypocrisy to another level, the Western leaders decided to look at the map of Gaza and realised that there is an open sea on one side. Voila, the European leaders, are working on a plan to open a maritime corridor and temporary pontoon bridge to send aid to the desperate Gazans. A pitiful attempt at placating the conscience, all the while Israel maintains an iron grip over Gaza's maritime territory. The West possesses the means to force Israel's hand, but instead, it chooses the path of least resistance – a circuitous sea route that conveniently absolves Israel of responsibility. This is not charity; this is a diplomatic charade. The West, far from a mere bystander, is an active accomplice in the suffering of the Palestinian people. The illegal blockade imposed by Israel, condemned by the UN, stands as a collective punishment against an entire population – a stark violation of international law, a humanitarian crisis fueled by political expediency. The actions of Hamas on October 7 were rightly condemned by the world in the harshest words. 1,139 people, mostly civilians, were killed in the attack, and about 240 others were seized as captives. Hamas must be punished. The hostages should be returned but what about the over 31,000 people killed in Gaza? The international community must rise above symbolic gestures, demanding real action to hold Israel accountable under international law and alleviate the immense humanitarian needs in Gaza. The time for symbolic Band-Aids is over. The people of Gaza cry out for genuine, resolute action – not palliatives on a festering bullet wound. The world must unite to break the shackles of political alliances and prioritise human life over geopolitical expediency. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

How the West enables Israel's collective punishment

United States President Joe Biden has said that the approach of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the Gaza war is&nbsp;"hurting Israel more than helping Israel".&nbsp;

The remarks were made by Biden in an interview aired on Saturday (Mar 9). Such statements&nbsp;have highlighted the increasing impatience of the US leader with Israel.

Netanyahu "has a right to defend Israel, a right to continue to pursue Hamas," said Biden, but stated that "he must pay more attention to the innocent lives being lost as a consequence of the actions taken."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-hamas-hardening-stance-on-hostage-deal-to-inflame-region-during-ramadan-698431">Israel says Hamas hardening stance on hostage deal to 'inflame region' during Ramadan</a>

"In my view, he is hurting Israel more than helping Israel," the US president said.

<h2>Biden makes contradictory remarks over "red line"</h2>

Amid the increasing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the left flank of Biden in an uproar, the US President made contradictory remarks while speaking about the "red line" over Israel's&nbsp;threatened offensive&nbsp;on Rafah in southern Gaza.

He remained ambiguous over the issue of Israel's likely invasion of Rafah where nearly 1.5 million of the territory's 2.4 million residents are currently living.

The 81-year-old Democrat said, "It is a red line. I am never going to leave Israel. The defence of Israel is still critical."

"There is no red line (in which) I want to cut off all weapons so they don't have the Iron Dome (air defence system) to protect them," he added.

Once again contradicting his remarks, Biden said that there were in fact "red lines... You cannot have 30,000 more Palestinians dead."

Watch:&nbsp;UNRWA Row: UN releases report on Israeli accusations, accuses Israel of getting fake confessions

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/unrwa-row-un-releases-report-on-israeli-accusations-accuses-israel-of-getting-fake-confessions-698371/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After delivering the State of the Union address, Biden had said on a hot mic that he would need to have a "come to Jesus" meeting with Netanyahu, which is an expression used in America and refers to a dramatic realisation that one needs to correct course.

Since the October 7 attack by Hamas, Israel has continuously bombarded the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

On Saturday, Biden remained evasive on the possibility of another trip to Israel. He had made his last visit in October just after the deadly Hamas attack.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden has said that the approach of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the Gaza war is "hurting Israel more than helping Israel".

United States President Joe Biden has said that the approach of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the Gaza war is "hurting Israel more than helping Israel". The remarks were made by Biden in an interview aired on Saturday (Mar 9). Such statements have highlighted the increasing impatience of the US leader with Israel. Netanyahu "has a right to defend Israel, a right to continue to pursue Hamas," said Biden, but stated that "he must pay more attention to the innocent lives being lost as a consequence of the actions taken." Also Read: Israel says Hamas hardening stance on hostage deal to 'inflame region' during Ramadan "In my view, he is hurting Israel more than helping Israel," the US president said. Biden makes contradictory remarks over "red line" Amid the increasing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the left flank of Biden in an uproar, the US President made contradictory remarks while speaking about the "red line" over Israel's threatened offensive on Rafah in southern Gaza. He remained ambiguous over the issue of Israel's likely invasion of Rafah where nearly 1.5 million of the territory's 2.4 million residents are currently living. The 81-year-old Democrat said, "It is a red line. I am never going to leave Israel. The defence of Israel is still critical." "There is no red line (in which) I want to cut off all weapons so they don't have the Iron Dome (air defence system) to protect them," he added. Once again contradicting his remarks, Biden said that there were in fact "red lines... You cannot have 30,000 more Palestinians dead." Watch: UNRWA Row: UN releases report on Israeli accusations, accuses Israel of getting fake confessions After delivering the State of the Union address, Biden had said on a hot mic that he would need to have a "come to Jesus" meeting with Netanyahu, which is an expression used in America and refers to a dramatic realisation that one needs to correct course. Since the October 7 attack by Hamas, Israel has continuously bombarded the Gaza Strip. On Saturday, Biden remained evasive on the possibility of another trip to Israel. He had made his last visit in October just after the deadly Hamas attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu's approach 'hurting Israel more than helping it', says Biden

The United States has dispatched a military ship laden with humanitarian aid to war-torn Gaza, Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Sunday (March 10).

This comes after US President Joe Biden announced during his State of the Union address&nbsp; that the US military will build a temporary aid port on Gaza's Mediterranean coast to provide humanitarian aid to the besieged Palestinian enclave via sea.

General Frank S. Besson left Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia "less than 36 hours after President Biden announced the U.S. would provide humanitarian assistance to Gaza by sea," CENTCOM said in a statement.

The logistics support vessel is "carrying the first equipment to establish a temporary pier to deliver vital humanitarian supplies," it said.

There is no port infrastructure in Gaza. The US plans to use Cyprus initially, which is offering a procedure for screening of cargoes that will include Israeli officials, eliminating the need for security checks in Gaza.

An Israeli official said Tel Aviv "fully supports the deployment of a temporary dock" on Gaza’s coast and the operation would be carried out "with full coordination between the two parties."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strike-kills-5-in-southern-lebanon-amid-escalating-tensions-in-region-698451">Israeli strike kills 5 in Southern Lebanon amid escalating tensions in region</a>

<h2>Israel says Hamas hardening stance on hostage deal</h2>

Meanwhile, in a continued effort to secure the release of hostages still held captive in Gaza, the Israeli spy chief met with his US counterpart on Saturday (March 9), Tel Aviv said.

"The head of the Mossad, David Barnea, met yesterday (Friday) with the head of the CIA, Bill Burns, as part of the ceaseless efforts to advance another hostage release deal," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement on behalf of the Mossad.

"Contacts and cooperation with the mediators continue all the time in an effort to narrow the gaps and reach agreements," said Mossad.

The statement comes amid mediators scrambling to secure a new ceasefire deal in the Gaza war before Ramadan which could begin as early as Sunday, depending on the lunar calendar.

"At this stage, Hamas is entrenching its positions like someone who is not interested in a deal and is striving to inflame the region during Ramadan at the expense of Palestinian residents of the Gaza Strip," it said.

Mossad also stated that Hamas was aiming for unrest in the area to worsen during Ramadan.&nbsp;

Israeli officials have stated that the conflict between the warring sides would come to an end only with the defeat of the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States has dispatched a military ship laden with humanitarian aid to war-torn Gaza, Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Sunday (March 10). This comes after US President Joe Biden announced during his State of the Union address that the US military will build a temporary aid port on Gaza's Mediterranean coast to provide humanitarian aid to the besieged Palestinian enclave via sea.

The United States has dispatched a military ship laden with humanitarian aid to war-torn Gaza, Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Sunday (March 10). This comes after US President Joe Biden announced during his State of the Union address that the US military will build a temporary aid port on Gaza's Mediterranean coast to provide humanitarian aid to the besieged Palestinian enclave via sea. General Frank S. Besson left Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia "less than 36 hours after President Biden announced the U.S. would provide humanitarian assistance to Gaza by sea," CENTCOM said in a statement. The logistics support vessel is "carrying the first equipment to establish a temporary pier to deliver vital humanitarian supplies," it said. There is no port infrastructure in Gaza. The US plans to use Cyprus initially, which is offering a procedure for screening of cargoes that will include Israeli officials, eliminating the need for security checks in Gaza. An Israeli official said Tel Aviv "fully supports the deployment of a temporary dock" on Gaza’s coast and the operation would be carried out "with full coordination between the two parties." Also read: Israeli strike kills 5 in Southern Lebanon amid escalating tensions in region Israel says Hamas hardening stance on hostage deal Meanwhile, in a continued effort to secure the release of hostages still held captive in Gaza, the Israeli spy chief met with his US counterpart on Saturday (March 9), Tel Aviv said. "The head of the Mossad, David Barnea, met yesterday (Friday) with the head of the CIA, Bill Burns, as part of the ceaseless efforts to advance another hostage release deal," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement on behalf of the Mossad. "Contacts and cooperation with the mediators continue all the time in an effort to narrow the gaps and reach agreements," said Mossad. The statement comes amid mediators scrambling to secure a new ceasefire deal in the Gaza war before Ramadan which could begin as early as Sunday, depending on the lunar calendar. "At this stage, Hamas is entrenching its positions like someone who is not interested in a deal and is striving to inflame the region during Ramadan at the expense of Palestinian residents of the Gaza Strip," it said. Mossad also stated that Hamas was aiming for unrest in the area to worsen during Ramadan. Israeli officials have stated that the conflict between the warring sides would come to an end only with the defeat of the Palestinian militant group Hamas. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: US military dispatches ship laden with humanitarian aid to war-torn Gaza Strip

Canada and Sweden would resume funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) after the two countries received assurances of extra checks on the agency's spending and personnel.

Canada and Sweden would resume funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) after the two countries received assurances of extra checks on the agency's spending and personnel. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Saturday (Mar 9), Canadian International Aid Minister Ahmed Hussen said that Ottawa would be lifting its temporary pause on funding to the agency. Hussen did not specify when the temporary pause would be lifted. "UNRWA plays a vital role in Gaza," he said. Canada paused funding on January 26 after Israel alleged that some UNRWA staff were involved in Hamas' October 7 attack last year. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: UNRWA chief says agency is ‘at risk of death’ On Thursday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that his government was waiting for the results of an internal United Nations probe into the Israeli allegations. Hussen said that Canada had reviewed the interim report of the investigation and looked forward to the final version. 'Taking allegations against UNRWA staff seriously' Sweden, meanwhile, announced on Saturday it too was resuming aid to the UNRWA with an initial disbursement of $20 million, a report by The Times of Israel said. “The government has allocated 400 million kronor to UNRWA for the year 2024. Today’s decision concerns a first payment of 200 million kronor,” Sweden said. Despite agreeing to resume the funding to the cash-strapped UN agency, Ottawa and Stockholm were still taking terror allegations against the staff members seriously, the report added. Also watch | UNRWA Row: UN releases report on Israeli accusations, accuses Israel of getting fake confessions × Israel condemned the decisions of the two countries. "...after having received the intelligence-based information about (UNRWA’s) employees who participated in the 7 October massacre and prior to the completion of the work of the investigative bodies and the publication of their findings is a serious mistake that constitutes tacit agreement and support by (Ottawa and Stockholm) to ignoring the involvement of UNRWA employees in terrorist activity,” the Israeli foreign ministry said in a statement. UNRWA at risk of death UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini earlier said that the agency was at risk of death and also at risk of dismantlement, after a total of 16 donors including the United States, paused funding following Israel's allegations. In an interview with Swiss broadcaster RTS that was aired on Saturday, Lazzarini said that he was cautiously optimistic some donors would start funding it again within weeks. "I am cautiously optimistic that within the next few weeks, and also following the publication of Catherine Colonna's report, a number of donors will return," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Canada, Sweden to resume funding to UNRWA but still taking terror allegations seriously

Israel targeted one of the largest residential towers in Rafah on Saturday (March 9), located in the southern Gaza Strip, according to residents.

A 12-floor structure near the border with Egypt, sustained damage in the strike, leading to dozens of families being displaced, fortunately, no casualties were reported. Residents mentioned that they received a 30-minute warning from Israel to evacuate the building at night.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-truce-looking-tough-before-ramadan-as-group-says-no-compromise-698245">Israel-Hamas truce 'looking tough' before Ramadan, group says 'no compromise'</a>

The strike intensifies pressure on the last area of the Gaza enclave not yet invaded by Israel, where over a million displaced Palestinians are seeking shelter. The Israeli military has not immediately responded to requests for comments on the incident.

A resident described the chaotic evacuation, with people running down stairs, some falling and leaving belongings behind. The strike on the Rafah tower has raised concerns among some officials, including a representative from the Fatah party, who fears it may signal an imminent Israeli invasion.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prez-biden-caught-on-hot-mic-says-need-to-hold-come-to-jesus-meet-with-bibi-698229">Prez Biden caught on hot mic, says need to hold 'come to Jesus' meet with Netanyahu</a>

The conflict in Gaza has been ongoing for five months, resulting in significant casualties, injuries, and widespread displacement. The humanitarian situation in the region has deteriorated, with health authorities reporting thousands trapped under rubble and the UN warning of disease and starvation.

The International Committee of the Red Cross called for an end to hostilities to facilitate meaningful aid distribution, Hamas to release hostages without conditions, and Israel to treat Palestinians in custody humanely.

Negotiations on a ceasefire and the release of hostages appear to have stalled, with a Hamas source suggesting that the group's delegation is unlikely to visit Cairo for talks. The situation remains tense, with conflicting perspectives on the path forward.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prisoner-exchange-negotiations-were-underway-with-kremlin-before-navalnys-death-report-698206">Prisoner exchange negotiations were ‘underway’ with Kremlin before Navalny’s death: Report</a>

Gaza's health ministry said at least 82 people were killed in Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip in the last day.

In Khan Younis, medics said at least 23 people were killed in military raids on homes and in Israeli shelling of a housing project in the Hamad area of the city. In the northern Gaza Strip, Israeli fire killed a Palestinian fisherman along the beach, medics said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel targeted one of the largest residential towers in Rafah on Saturday (March 9), located in the southern Gaza Strip, according to residents. A 12-floor structure near the border with Egypt, sustained damage in the strike, leading to dozens of families being displaced, fortunately, no casualties were reported.

Israel targeted one of the largest residential towers in Rafah on Saturday (March 9), located in the southern Gaza Strip, according to residents. A 12-floor structure near the border with Egypt, sustained damage in the strike, leading to dozens of families being displaced, fortunately, no casualties were reported. Residents mentioned that they received a 30-minute warning from Israel to evacuate the building at night. Also read: Israel-Hamas truce 'looking tough' before Ramadan, group says 'no compromise' The strike intensifies pressure on the last area of the Gaza enclave not yet invaded by Israel, where over a million displaced Palestinians are seeking shelter. The Israeli military has not immediately responded to requests for comments on the incident. A resident described the chaotic evacuation, with people running down stairs, some falling and leaving belongings behind. The strike on the Rafah tower has raised concerns among some officials, including a representative from the Fatah party, who fears it may signal an imminent Israeli invasion. Also Read | Prez Biden caught on hot mic, says need to hold 'come to Jesus' meet with Netanyahu The conflict in Gaza has been ongoing for five months, resulting in significant casualties, injuries, and widespread displacement. The humanitarian situation in the region has deteriorated, with health authorities reporting thousands trapped under rubble and the UN warning of disease and starvation. The International Committee of the Red Cross called for an end to hostilities to facilitate meaningful aid distribution, Hamas to release hostages without conditions, and Israel to treat Palestinians in custody humanely. Negotiations on a ceasefire and the release of hostages appear to have stalled, with a Hamas source suggesting that the group's delegation is unlikely to visit Cairo for talks. The situation remains tense, with conflicting perspectives on the path forward. Also Read | Prisoner exchange negotiations were ‘underway’ with Kremlin before Navalny’s death: Report Gaza's health ministry said at least 82 people were killed in Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip in the last day. In Khan Younis, medics said at least 23 people were killed in military raids on homes and in Israeli shelling of a housing project in the Hamad area of the city. In the northern Gaza Strip, Israeli fire killed a Palestinian fisherman along the beach, medics said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel strikes key residential tower in southern Rafah as ceasefire talks stall

Indian Election Commissioner Arun Goel stepped down from his post on Saturday (Mar 9) just weeks ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in the country. His resignation was accepted by President Droupadi Murmu.&nbsp;Goel assumed charge as the election commissioner in 2022.

Polish Foreign Minister&nbsp;Radosław&nbsp;Sikorski said on Friday&nbsp;that the presence of NATO troops in war-torn Ukraine was "not unthinkable," adding he appreciated French President Emmanuel Macron's initiative for not ruling out the idea. Sikorski said he appreciated Macron's initiative “because it is about Putin being afraid, not us being afraid of Putin.”&nbsp;

In other news from around the world,&nbsp;Israel targeted one of the largest residential towers in Rafah on Saturday. The strike intensifies pressure on the last area of the Gaza enclave not yet invaded by Israel, where over a million displaced Palestinians are seeking shelter.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-president-accepts-resignation-tendered-by-election-commissioner-arun-goel-ahead-of-lok-sabha-polls-698380">Indian president accepts resignation tendered by Election Commissioner Arun Goel ahead of Lok Sabha polls&nbsp;</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/09/417371-succession-2024-03-09t211819355.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Election Commissioner Arun Goel on Saturday (Mar&nbsp;9) quit from his position ahead of India's upcoming Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;His resignation was accepted by&nbsp;President Droupadi Murmu with effect from Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-poland-says-presence-of-nato-troops-in-ukraine-not-unthinkable-698391">Ukraine war: Poland says presence of NATO troops in Ukraine 'not unthinkable'</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/09/417381-untitled-design-4.png?imwidth=400" />

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław&nbsp;Sikorski said on Friday (Mar 8) that the presence of NATO troops in war-torn Ukraine was "not unthinkable," adding he appreciated French President Emmanuel Macron's initiative for not ruling out the idea.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-key-residential-tower-in-southern-rafah-as-ceasefire-talks-stall-698374">Israel strikes key residential tower in southern Rafah as ceasefire talks stall</a>

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Israel targeted one of the largest residential towers in Rafah on Saturday (Mar&nbsp;9), located in the southern Gaza Strip, according to residents.&nbsp;A 12-floor structure near the border with Egypt, sustained damage in the strike, leading to dozens of families being displaced, fortunately, no casualties were reported.

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Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President JP Nadda announced on Saturday (Mar 9) that the BJP, Chandrababu Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP), and actor Pawan Kalyan's Jana Sena Party (JSP) would contest ensuing Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections together in Andhra Pradesh.

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Indonesia's Sumatra island faced tragedy as torrential rains triggered flash floods and a landslide, claiming at least 10 lives and leaving 10 individuals missing, according to officials on Saturday (Mar&nbsp;9).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-condemns-officer-kicking-namazis-incident-in-new-delhi-698313">Delhi Police condemn ‘cop for kicking men offering namaz’ on road in New Delhi</a>

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The Delhi Police has strongly condemned&nbsp;the incident at Inderlok&nbsp;after a video surfaced, purportedly depicting an officer kicking individuals offering prayer on the road in an attempt to disperse them.

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The US Senate has approved a six-bill package of $460 billion to finance various federal government sectors&nbsp;in time to meet a midnight deadline&nbsp;until September, narrowly averting a partial shutdown.

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Police have charged two roommates of a recently deceased man with corpse abuse for propping up his body to withdraw money from his bank account, according to authorities. Loreen B. Feralo, 55, and Karen Kasbohm, 63, discovered the man's lifeless body on Monday and took&nbsp;it to a bank they had previously visited with him.

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England captain Ben Stokes admits to accepting the embarrassing defeat at the hands of India in the recently concluded Test series but claims that it cannot dent the brand of cricket (the world now calls Bazball) that led to his side’s revival in Test cricket.&nbsp;

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National Award-winning director Sekhar Kammula's upcoming film, titled&nbsp;Kubera, is creating a buzz with its star-studded cast and intriguing first look. The film features Dhanush, Nagarjuna, Rashmika Mandanna, and Jim Sarbh in pivotal roles and marks the debut of both Dhanush and Jim in Telugu cinema.

Indian Election Commissioner Arun Goel stepped down from his post on Saturday (Mar 9) just weeks ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in the country. His resignation was accepted by President Droupadi Murmu.

Indian Election Commissioner Arun Goel stepped down from his post on Saturday (Mar 9) just weeks ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in the country. His resignation was accepted by President Droupadi Murmu. Goel assumed charge as the election commissioner in 2022. Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said on Friday that the presence of NATO troops in war-torn Ukraine was "not unthinkable," adding he appreciated French President Emmanuel Macron's initiative for not ruling out the idea. Sikorski said he appreciated Macron's initiative “because it is about Putin being afraid, not us being afraid of Putin.” In other news from around the world, Israel targeted one of the largest residential towers in Rafah on Saturday. The strike intensifies pressure on the last area of the Gaza enclave not yet invaded by Israel, where over a million displaced Palestinians are seeking shelter. Click on the headlines to read more: Indian president accepts resignation tendered by Election Commissioner Arun Goel ahead of Lok Sabha polls Election Commissioner Arun Goel on Saturday (Mar 9) quit from his position ahead of India's upcoming Lok Sabha elections. His resignation was accepted by President Droupadi Murmu with effect from Saturday. Ukraine war: Poland says presence of NATO troops in Ukraine 'not unthinkable' Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said on Friday (Mar 8) that the presence of NATO troops in war-torn Ukraine was "not unthinkable," adding he appreciated French President Emmanuel Macron's initiative for not ruling out the idea. Israel strikes key residential tower in southern Rafah as ceasefire talks stall Israel targeted one of the largest residential towers in Rafah on Saturday (Mar 9), located in the southern Gaza Strip, according to residents. A 12-floor structure near the border with Egypt, sustained damage in the strike, leading to dozens of families being displaced, fortunately, no casualties were reported. India elections 2024: BJP, Chandrababu’s TDP and Pawan Kalyan’s JSP to contest Lok Sabha, Andhra polls together Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President JP Nadda announced on Saturday (Mar 9) that the BJP, Chandrababu Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP), and actor Pawan Kalyan's Jana Sena Party (JSP) would contest ensuing Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections together in Andhra Pradesh. 10 dead, 10 missing as flash floods hit Indonesia’s Sumatra Island Indonesia's Sumatra island faced tragedy as torrential rains triggered flash floods and a landslide, claiming at least 10 lives and leaving 10 individuals missing, according to officials on Saturday (Mar 9). Delhi Police condemn ‘cop for kicking men offering namaz’ on road in New Delhi The Delhi Police has strongly condemned the incident at Inderlok after a video surfaced, purportedly depicting an officer kicking individuals offering prayer on the road in an attempt to disperse them. US Senate approves initial funding package of $460 billion to avert government shutdown The US Senate has approved a six-bill package of $460 billion to finance various federal government sectors in time to meet a midnight deadline until September, narrowly averting a partial shutdown. Roommates of deceased Ohio man drive his body to withdraw money from bank Police have charged two roommates of a recently deceased man with corpse abuse for propping up his body to withdraw money from his bank account, according to authorities. Loreen B. Feralo, 55, and Karen Kasbohm, 63, discovered the man's lifeless body on Monday and took it to a bank they had previously visited with him. Dharamsala Test: Series defeat to India cannot suppress Bazball, says England skipper Ben Stokes England captain Ben Stokes admits to accepting the embarrassing defeat at the hands of India in the recently concluded Test series but claims that it cannot dent the brand of cricket (the world now calls Bazball) that led to his side’s revival in Test cricket. Kubera first look out! Dhanush sports long, shaggy beard in never-before-seen avatar National Award-winning director Sekhar Kammula's upcoming film, titled Kubera, is creating a buzz with its star-studded cast and intriguing first look. The film features Dhanush, Nagarjuna, Rashmika Mandanna, and Jim Sarbh in pivotal roles and marks the debut of both Dhanush and Jim in Telugu cinema.

Top 10 world news: Indian election commissioner steps down; Ukraine war updates, and more

President Joe Biden announced during his State of the Union speech on Thursday that the US military will build a temporary port on Gaza's Mediterranean coast to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian supplies by sea. The stationing of American soldiers in Gaza was not part of the initial planning for the operation, which was focused on the island of Cyprus.

Israel war: US military will build a temporary port on Gaza's Mediterranean coast to deliver aid

As the Gaza war continues, hopes for a ceasefire before Ramadan began to wane. The territory's health ministry reported that numerous people had died within the enclave. The ministry said that 83 additional people had died on the previous day, bringing the total number of deaths from Israel's war—mostly women and children—to 30,800. China referred to the conflict as "a disgrace to civilisation".

Israel-Hamas war: Hostage kin hold protest in Tel Aviv as hope for truce before Ramadan dims

A report by the Washington Post on Wednesday (Mar 6) claimed that the United States (US) made over 100 weapons sales to Israel since the war between Israel and Hamas started on October 7 last year. These transactions, however, escaped congressional approval due to a loophole — their individual amounts were below the threshold requiring such oversight.

In the US, lawmakers in Alabama passed legislation protecting In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) providers, and the state's governor is expected to sign it into law.

In other news from around the world, North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un visited a major military operations base in the western region of the country, issuing directives for heightened readiness for a potential war, reported the state KCNA news agency on Thursday.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-exploited-loophole-to-quietly-sell-weapons-to-israel-amidst-gaza-bloodshed-report-697423">US exploited 'loophole' to quietly sell weapons to Israel amidst Gaza bloodshed: Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/07/416695-new-wion-33.jpg?imwidth=400" /> 
&nbsp;

Even as thousands died to Israeli retaliatory fire on Gaza, the United States, as per a damning report, made over 100 weapons sales to Israel, including thousands of bombs, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war. These transactions, however, escaped congressional approval due to a loophole — their individual amounts were below the threshold requiring such oversight.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alabama-lawmakers-approve-ivf-protection-bill-amid-conservative-backlash-697441">Alabama lawmakers approve IVF protection bill amid conservative backlash</a>

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Alabama lawmakers in the United States have passed legislation protecting In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) providers. The governor is expected to sign it into law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-visits-military-base-tells-army-to-be-prepared-for-war-report-697425">Kim Jong Un visits military base, tells army to be prepared for war: Report</a>

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Kim Jong Un, the North Korea leader, on Wednesday&nbsp;visited a major military operations base in the western region of the country. There, the supreme leader issued directives for heightened readiness for a potential war, reported state KCNA news agency on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-puts-focus-on-genocide-convention-over-imminent-threat-of-famine-in-gaza-697436">South Africa puts focus on Genocide Convention over 'imminent threat' of famine in Gaza</a>

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South Africa asked the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to initiate more emergency measures against Israel amid the war in Gaza. In its application, President Cyril Ramaphosa-led nation said that Palestinians in Gaza are facing starvation and therefore, the court must order all parties to cease hostilities and release all hostages.&nbsp;

UK Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt presents Spring budget

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A report by the Washington Post on Wednesday (Mar 6) claimed that the United States (US) made over 100 weapons sales to Israel since the war between Israel and Hamas started on October 7 last year.

A report by the Washington Post on Wednesday (Mar 6) claimed that the United States (US) made over 100 weapons sales to Israel since the war between Israel and Hamas started on October 7 last year. These transactions, however, escaped congressional approval due to a loophole — their individual amounts were below the threshold requiring such oversight. In the US, lawmakers in Alabama passed legislation protecting In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) providers, and the state's governor is expected to sign it into law. In other news from around the world, North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un visited a major military operations base in the western region of the country, issuing directives for heightened readiness for a potential war, reported the state KCNA news agency on Thursday. Click on the headlines to read more: US exploited 'loophole' to quietly sell weapons to Israel amidst Gaza bloodshed: Report Even as thousands died to Israeli retaliatory fire on Gaza, the United States, as per a damning report, made over 100 weapons sales to Israel, including thousands of bombs, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war. These transactions, however, escaped congressional approval due to a loophole — their individual amounts were below the threshold requiring such oversight. Alabama lawmakers approve IVF protection bill amid conservative backlash Alabama lawmakers in the United States have passed legislation protecting In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) providers. The governor is expected to sign it into law. Kim Jong Un visits military base, tells army to be prepared for war: Report Kim Jong Un, the North Korea leader, on Wednesday visited a major military operations base in the western region of the country. There, the supreme leader issued directives for heightened readiness for a potential war, reported state KCNA news agency on Thursday. South Africa puts focus on Genocide Convention over 'imminent threat' of famine in Gaza South Africa asked the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to initiate more emergency measures against Israel amid the war in Gaza. In its application, President Cyril Ramaphosa-led nation said that Palestinians in Gaza are facing starvation and therefore, the court must order all parties to cease hostilities and release all hostages. UK Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt presents Spring budget ×

Morning brief: US 'secret' weapon sales to Israel; N Korea leader asks army to be ready for war; and more

Even as thousands died to Israeli retaliatory fire on Gaza, the United States, as per a damning report, made over 100 weapons sales to Israel, including thousands of bombs, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;

The war which began on Oct 7 with militant group Hamas'&nbsp;cross-border attack on Israel has to date claimed around 31,200 lives — 1,200 Israelis that were killed in the initial Hamas attack and around 30,000 Palestinians.

<h2>US' clandestine weapon sales to Israel</h2>

As per a Washington Post report, since the start of the Gaza war, the US has made over 100 weapon&nbsp;sales to Israel. These transactions, however, escaped congressional approval due to a loophole — their individual amounts were below the threshold requiring such oversight.

This revelation comes as the Biden administration has increasingly been publicly critical of Israel's military operations in Gaza and its limited humanitarian aid access.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-airdrops-fresh-round-of-humanitarian-aid-to-gaza-36800-meals-delivered-697053">Israel-Hamas war: US airdrops fresh round of humanitarian aid to Gaza; 36,800 meals delivered</a>

Apparently, even as America voiced humanitarian concerns, it has quietly continued to provide substantial munitions to replace the tens and thousands of bombs dropped on the Gaza Strip.

As per the Washington Post report, administration officials were recently informed of these sales via a classified briefing.&nbsp;

Only a few details of these sales are known, because to keep them small, their contents were kept secret. Reportedly, these sales included precision-guided munitions, small-diameter bombs, bunker busters, small arms, and other lethal aid.

<h2>US Arms Export Control Law</h2>

As per The Guardian, the Arms Export Control Act allows exceptions for arms sales to close allies, with a limit of $25 million for "major defence equipment" and $100 million for other "defence articles" like bombs.&nbsp;

Ari Tolany, director of the security assistance monitor at the Center for International Policy, a think tank, criticised this loophole as an attempt to avoid transparency and accountability.

"This doesn’t just seem like an attempt to avoid technical compliance with US arms export law, it’s an extremely troubling way to avoid transparency and accountability on a high-profile issue," she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beaten-attacked-by-dogs-raped-un-report-alleges-palestinians-suffering-horrible-abuse-in-israeli-detention-697167">Beaten, attacked by dogs, raped: UN report alleges Palestinians suffering horrible abuse in Israeli detention</a>

The Biden administration's actions compare to those of the Trump administration, which as per findings of the State Department Office of the Inspector General made thousands of below-threshold arms transfers to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, totalling an estimated $11.2 billion.

In exploiting this loophole, "They're very much borrowing from the Trump playbook to dodge congressional oversight," said Tolany.

These clandestine sales are besides the three major military sales publicly disclosed since the conflict's onset: $320 million worth of precision bomb kits in November and 14,000 tank shells valued at $106 million. Furthermore, $147.5 million was allocated for fuses and other components essential for the production of 155&nbsp;mm artillery shells in December.&nbsp;

Notably, the deliveries in December, which included tank and artillery shells, also evaded congressional scrutiny by being executed under emergency authority.&nbsp;

On Monday (Mar 4), Matthew Miller, the State Department spokesperson in a press briefing, said, "We continue to support Israel’s campaign to ensure that the attacks of 7 October cannot be repeated. We have provided military assistance to Israel because it is consistent with that goal."

"We support Israel’s legitimate military campaign consistent with international humanitarian law."

(With inputs from agencies)

Even as thousands died to Israeli retaliatory fire on Gaza, the United States, as per a damning report, made over 100 weapons sales to Israel, including thousands of bombs, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.

Even as thousands died to Israeli retaliatory fire on Gaza, the United States, as per a damning report, made over 100 weapons sales to Israel, including thousands of bombs, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war. The war which began on Oct 7 with militant group Hamas' cross-border attack on Israel has to date claimed around 31,200 lives — 1,200 Israelis that were killed in the initial Hamas attack and around 30,000 Palestinians. US' clandestine weapon sales to Israel As per a Washington Post report, since the start of the Gaza war, the US has made over 100 weapon sales to Israel. These transactions, however, escaped congressional approval due to a loophole — their individual amounts were below the threshold requiring such oversight. This revelation comes as the Biden administration has increasingly been publicly critical of Israel's military operations in Gaza and its limited humanitarian aid access. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: US airdrops fresh round of humanitarian aid to Gaza; 36,800 meals delivered Apparently, even as America voiced humanitarian concerns, it has quietly continued to provide substantial munitions to replace the tens and thousands of bombs dropped on the Gaza Strip. As per the Washington Post report, administration officials were recently informed of these sales via a classified briefing. Only a few details of these sales are known, because to keep them small, their contents were kept secret. Reportedly, these sales included precision-guided munitions, small-diameter bombs, bunker busters, small arms, and other lethal aid. US Arms Export Control Law As per The Guardian, the Arms Export Control Act allows exceptions for arms sales to close allies, with a limit of $25 million for "major defence equipment" and $100 million for other "defence articles" like bombs. Ari Tolany, director of the security assistance monitor at the Center for International Policy, a think tank, criticised this loophole as an attempt to avoid transparency and accountability. "This doesn’t just seem like an attempt to avoid technical compliance with US arms export law, it’s an extremely troubling way to avoid transparency and accountability on a high-profile issue," she said. Also read | Beaten, attacked by dogs, raped: UN report alleges Palestinians suffering horrible abuse in Israeli detention The Biden administration's actions compare to those of the Trump administration, which as per findings of the State Department Office of the Inspector General made thousands of below-threshold arms transfers to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, totalling an estimated $11.2 billion. In exploiting this loophole, "They're very much borrowing from the Trump playbook to dodge congressional oversight," said Tolany. These clandestine sales are besides the three major military sales publicly disclosed since the conflict's onset: $320 million worth of precision bomb kits in November and 14,000 tank shells valued at $106 million. Furthermore, $147.5 million was allocated for fuses and other components essential for the production of 155 mm artillery shells in December. Notably, the deliveries in December, which included tank and artillery shells, also evaded congressional scrutiny by being executed under emergency authority. On Monday (Mar 4), Matthew Miller, the State Department spokesperson in a press briefing, said, "We continue to support Israel’s campaign to ensure that the attacks of 7 October cannot be repeated. We have provided military assistance to Israel because it is consistent with that goal." "We support Israel’s legitimate military campaign consistent with international humanitarian law." (With inputs from agencies)

US exploited 'loophole' to quietly sell weapons to Israel amidst Gaza bloodshed: Report