Jerusalem
Israel on Tuesday (Dec 23) said it had intercepted a 'projectile' fired from Yemen, marking a fresh escalation in regional tensions as air raid sirens sounded across central and southern Israel. 
The Israeli Army said on Telegram that the projectile was destroyed before crossing into Israeli airspace.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-netanyahu-says-some-progress-made-on-gaza-hostage-deal-786289">Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu says 'some progress' made on Gaza hostage deal</a>
<h2>Israeli Army statement on Yemen projectile</h2>
"Following the sirens that sounded a short while ago, a projectile that was launched from Yemen was intercepted prior to crossing into Israeli territory," said the army statement. 
"Rocket and missile sirens were sounded following the possibility of falling shrapnel from the interception," it added.
Emergency medical responders from Magen David Adom reported no injuries linked to the incident.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-his-bones-are-out-wife-of-american-hostage-pleads-with-negotiators-to-bring-husband-back-786159">Gaza war: ‘His bones are out,’ wife of American hostage pleads with negotiators to bring husband back</a>
<h2>Mounting tensions with the Houthis</h2>
This comes amid heightened hostilities with Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who last week fired two missiles at Israel. One missile struck Tel Aviv, injuring 16 people in a direct hit on a commercial area. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has since vowed to retaliate decisively.
"I have instructed our forces to destroy the infrastructure of Houthis, because anyone who tries to harm us will be struck with full force, even if it takes time," Netanyahu told lawmakers on Monday.
<h2>Israel's retaliatory strikes</h2>
In a forceful retaliatory attack, Israeli airstrikes targeted Houthi-controlled ports and energy facilities, which the military claims are central to the rebels' operations.
The Houthis have reported that nine people were killed in the Israeli attacks.
(With inputs from agencies)
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

According to the Israeli army's statement on Telegram, the projectile was destroyed before crossing into Israeli airspace



Jerusalem Israel on Tuesday (Dec 23) said it had intercepted a 'projectile' fired from Yemen, marking a fresh escalation in regional tensions as air raid sirens sounded across central and southern Israel. The Israeli Army said on Telegram that the projectile was destroyed before crossing into Israeli airspace. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu says 'some progress' made on Gaza hostage deal Israeli Army statement on Yemen projectile "Following the sirens that sounded a short while ago, a projectile that was launched from Yemen was intercepted prior to crossing into Israeli territory," said the army statement. "Rocket and missile sirens were sounded following the possibility of falling shrapnel from the interception," it added. Emergency medical responders from Magen David Adom reported no injuries linked to the incident. Also read | Gaza war: ‘His bones are out,’ wife of American hostage pleads with negotiators to bring husband back Mounting tensions with the Houthis This comes amid heightened hostilities with Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who last week fired two missiles at Israel. One missile struck Tel Aviv, injuring 16 people in a direct hit on a commercial area. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has since vowed to retaliate decisively. "I have instructed our forces to destroy the infrastructure of Houthis, because anyone who tries to harm us will be struck with full force, even if it takes time," Netanyahu told lawmakers on Monday. Israel's retaliatory strikes In a forceful retaliatory attack, Israeli airstrikes targeted Houthi-controlled ports and energy facilities, which the military claims are central to the rebels' operations. The Houthis have reported that nine people were killed in the Israeli attacks. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Israel intercepts Yemen-launched projectile amid rising tensions

Tel Aviv
<meta content="uuid3ze8PUVTNnZD" name="uuid"/>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the parliament on Monday (Dec 23) that some progress had been made in negotiations to secure the release of hostages in Gaza.
"Everything we are doing cannot be disclosed. We are taking actions to bring them back. I wish to say cautiously that there has been some progress, and we will not stop acting until we bring them all home," Prime Minister Netanyahu said, as talks to reach a deal have been renewed in recent days.
The war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip has been going on for more than a year now. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-strikes-hamas-command-center-in-former-gaza-school-as-israel-negotiates-hostage-release-786003">Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report</a>
The only ceasefire so far, in November last year, saw the release of about 100 hostages by Hamas and its allies in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
<h2>'Gaza deal closer than ever'</h2>
Netanyahu's comments to the Israeli Parliament came two days after three Palestinian militant groups said in a rare joint statement that a deal for a ceasefire in the Gaza war and to exchange prisoners was "closer than ever."
Also watch | The West Asia Post: Gaza ceasefire in sight?
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/20/2012_gaza_730pm_wion-1734708314-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2012_gaza_730pm_wion_.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=250&tags=israel,Hamas,war" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
In recent days, indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States were held in Doha, rekindling hope of an agreement, more than 14 months into the Gaza war.
<h2>A hope for families of the hostages</h2>
On Monday, Netanyahu told Parliament, "Everything we are doing cannot be disclosed. We are taking actions to bring them (hostages) back. I wish to say cautiously that there has been some progress, and we will not stop acting until we bring them all home."
"I want to say to the families of the hostages: We are thinking of you and we will not give up on your loved ones, who are our loved ones as well," the Israeli PM added. 
(With inputs from agencies)

The only ceasefire so far, in November last year, saw the release of about 100 hostages by Hamas and its allies in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.



Tel Aviv Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the parliament on Monday (Dec 23) that some progress had been made in negotiations to secure the release of hostages in Gaza. "Everything we are doing cannot be disclosed. We are taking actions to bring them back. I wish to say cautiously that there has been some progress, and we will not stop acting until we bring them all home," Prime Minister Netanyahu said, as talks to reach a deal have been renewed in recent days. The war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip has been going on for more than a year now. Also read | Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report The only ceasefire so far, in November last year, saw the release of about 100 hostages by Hamas and its allies in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. 'Gaza deal closer than ever' Netanyahu's comments to the Israeli Parliament came two days after three Palestinian militant groups said in a rare joint statement that a deal for a ceasefire in the Gaza war and to exchange prisoners was "closer than ever." Also watch | The West Asia Post: Gaza ceasefire in sight? In recent days, indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States were held in Doha, rekindling hope of an agreement, more than 14 months into the Gaza war. A hope for families of the hostages On Monday, Netanyahu told Parliament, "Everything we are doing cannot be disclosed. We are taking actions to bring them (hostages) back. I wish to say cautiously that there has been some progress, and we will not stop acting until we bring them all home." "I want to say to the families of the hostages: We are thinking of you and we will not give up on your loved ones, who are our loved ones as well," the Israeli PM added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu says 'some progress' made on Gaza hostage deal

Tel Aviv, Israel
The wife of an American hostage held by Palestinian militant organisation Hamas in Gaza has pleaded with negotiators to bring her husband back. Aviva Siegel, a former hostage herself, reacted to a video released by the Gaza-based group in April, saying, “I just saw the picture. He looks terrible. His bones are out, and you can see that he’s lost a lot of weight.”
Siegel told US news outlet New York Post that she was worried about “what kind of Keith Siegel (her husband) that we’re going to get back.” “He doesn’t look like himself. And I’m just so worried about him, because so [many] days and minutes have passed since that video that we received,” she added.
She added that she was also worried about all hostages, as the conditions that they are facing are the worst any human can ever go through.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjrgqGwy72KAxXpklYBHVUNNZkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gotta-keep-this-sucker-for-a-little-while-trump-signals-averting-ban-on-tiktok-786087" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/gotta-keep-this-sucker-for-a-little-while-trump-signals-averting-ban-on-tiktok-786087&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjrgqGwy72KAxXpklYBHVUNNZkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">‘Gotta keep this sucker for a little while,’ Trump signals averting ban on TikTok</a>
“I was there. I touched death. I know what it feels being underneath the ground with no oxygen. Keith and I were just left there. We were left there to die,” the woman said, recalling her own experience while being in captivity.
The couple was abducted by Hamas militants during Oct 7 attack from their home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza. They remained together in Gaza for 51 days, until Aviva was freed in November last year under a hostage exchange deal. After her release, Aviva said she had a terrible stomach infection while being hostage and fell extremely ill.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwint4q0y72KAxVZ2jQHHak4Ks4QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-12-aid-trucks-reached-starving-civilians-in-northern-gaza-since-october-reveals-oxfam-786062" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/only-12-aid-trucks-reached-starving-civilians-in-northern-gaza-since-october-reveals-oxfam-786062&amp;ved=2ahUKEwint4q0y72KAxVZ2jQHHak4Ks4QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Only 12 aid trucks reached starving civilians in northern Gaza since October, reveals Oxfam</a>
Now, Aviva has been fighting for her husband’s release for months. She has already met top officials in the US as well as Israel and has travelled to the US as many as nine times this year alone.
“I just hope that he’s with other people from Israel, and if he has them, he’s going to be okay,” Aviva said. “He’s just the person that will make them feel that they’re together. That’s what he did when I was there – he was 100% for me and the hostages that we were with.”
(With inputs from agencies)

The couple was abducted by Hamas militants during Oct 7 attack from their home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza. They remained together in Gaza for 51 days, until Aviva, the wife, was freed in November last year under a hostage exchange deal



Tel Aviv, Israel The wife of an American hostage held by Palestinian militant organisation Hamas in Gaza has pleaded with negotiators to bring her husband back. Aviva Siegel, a former hostage herself, reacted to a video released by the Gaza-based group in April, saying, “I just saw the picture. He looks terrible. His bones are out, and you can see that he’s lost a lot of weight.” Siegel told US news outlet New York Post that she was worried about “what kind of Keith Siegel (her husband) that we’re going to get back.” “He doesn’t look like himself. And I’m just so worried about him, because so [many] days and minutes have passed since that video that we received,” she added. She added that she was also worried about all hostages, as the conditions that they are facing are the worst any human can ever go through. Also read: ‘Gotta keep this sucker for a little while,’ Trump signals averting ban on TikTok “I was there. I touched death. I know what it feels being underneath the ground with no oxygen. Keith and I were just left there. We were left there to die,” the woman said, recalling her own experience while being in captivity. The couple was abducted by Hamas militants during Oct 7 attack from their home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza. They remained together in Gaza for 51 days, until Aviva was freed in November last year under a hostage exchange deal. After her release, Aviva said she had a terrible stomach infection while being hostage and fell extremely ill. Also read: Only 12 aid trucks reached starving civilians in northern Gaza since October, reveals Oxfam Now, Aviva has been fighting for her husband’s release for months. She has already met top officials in the US as well as Israel and has travelled to the US as many as nine times this year alone. “I just hope that he’s with other people from Israel, and if he has them, he’s going to be okay,” Aviva said. “He’s just the person that will make them feel that they’re together. That’s what he did when I was there – he was 100% for me and the hostages that we were with.” (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: ‘His bones are out,’ wife of American hostage pleads with negotiators to bring husband back

Even as the global community continues to&nbsp;raise alarm over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, an Oxfam report on Sunday (Dec 22) revealed that in the last two-and-a-half months, since October, only 12 trucks distributed aid amid Israel blockades.

<h2>Systematic 'cruelty'?</h2>

Raising alarm over the worsening situation, the aid group said,&nbsp;"Of the meagre 34 trucks of food and water given permission to enter the North Gaza Governorate over the last 2.5 months, deliberate delays and systematic obstructions by the Israeli military meant that just 12 managed to distribute aid to starving Palestinian civilians."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/absurd-irans-supreme-leader-khamenei-denies-using-proxies-in-west-asia-785976">Iran's Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations, says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently</a>

This count, as per AFP, includes those made through Saturday (Dec 21).

Just a day after Israel slammed Pope Francis for referring to the bombing of children in Gaza as an act of "cruelty," Oxfam reported instances where shelters were destroyed. The aid organisation said that even when deliveries were completed, some were disrupted by subsequent shelling of shelter locations within hours.

"For three of these, once the food and water had been delivered to the school where people were sheltering, it was then cleared and shelled within hours," it alleged.

The aid organisation pointed out that delays and restrictions have left thousands of Palestinians without adequate supplies, deepening the ongoing crisis in the besieged region. Oxfam claimed that&nbsp;it and other international aid groups have been "continually prevented from delivering life-saving aid" in northern Gaza since October 6 this year, when Israel intensified its bombardment of the territory.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-strikes-hamas-command-center-in-former-gaza-school-as-israel-negotiates-hostage-release-786003">Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report</a>

"Thousands of people are estimated to still be cut off, but with humanitarian access blocked it's impossible to know exact numbers," adding that&nbsp;"At the beginning of December, humanitarian organisations operating in Gaza were receiving calls from vulnerable people trapped in homes and shelters that had completely run out of food and water."&nbsp;

The Oxfam revelations come days after Human Rights Watch recently alleged that Israeli authorities have deliberately restricted water access in Gaza, with devastating consequences. On Thursday (Dec 19) in a report focused on water, the New York-based organization said deliberate efforts by Israeli authorities "of a systematic nature" to deprive Gazans of water, which had "likely caused thousands of deaths... and will likely continue to cause deaths."

(With inputs from agencies)

Even as the global community continues to raise alarm over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, an Oxfam report on Sunday (Dec 22) revealed that in the last two-and-a-half months, since October, only 12 trucks distributed aid amid Israel blockades.

Even as the global community continues to raise alarm over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, an Oxfam report on Sunday (Dec 22) revealed that in the last two-and-a-half months, since October, only 12 trucks distributed aid amid Israel blockades. Systematic 'cruelty'? Raising alarm over the worsening situation, the aid group said, "Of the meagre 34 trucks of food and water given permission to enter the North Gaza Governorate over the last 2.5 months, deliberate delays and systematic obstructions by the Israeli military meant that just 12 managed to distribute aid to starving Palestinian civilians." Also read | Iran's Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations, says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently This count, as per AFP, includes those made through Saturday (Dec 21). Just a day after Israel slammed Pope Francis for referring to the bombing of children in Gaza as an act of "cruelty," Oxfam reported instances where shelters were destroyed. The aid organisation said that even when deliveries were completed, some were disrupted by subsequent shelling of shelter locations within hours. "For three of these, once the food and water had been delivered to the school where people were sheltering, it was then cleared and shelled within hours," it alleged. The aid organisation pointed out that delays and restrictions have left thousands of Palestinians without adequate supplies, deepening the ongoing crisis in the besieged region. Oxfam claimed that it and other international aid groups have been "continually prevented from delivering life-saving aid" in northern Gaza since October 6 this year, when Israel intensified its bombardment of the territory. Also read | Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report "Thousands of people are estimated to still be cut off, but with humanitarian access blocked it's impossible to know exact numbers," adding that "At the beginning of December, humanitarian organisations operating in Gaza were receiving calls from vulnerable people trapped in homes and shelters that had completely run out of food and water." The Oxfam revelations come days after Human Rights Watch recently alleged that Israeli authorities have deliberately restricted water access in Gaza, with devastating consequences. On Thursday (Dec 19) in a report focused on water, the New York-based organization said deliberate efforts by Israeli authorities "of a systematic nature" to deprive Gazans of water, which had "likely caused thousands of deaths... and will likely continue to cause deaths." (With inputs from agencies)

Only 12 aid trucks reached starving civilians in northern Gaza since October, reveals Oxfam

United Nations, United States
Even as the global community continues to raise alarm over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, an Oxfam report on Sunday (Dec 22) revealed that in the last two-and-a-half months, since October, only 12 trucks distributed aid amid Israel blockades.
<h2>Systematic 'cruelty'?</h2>
Raising alarm over the worsening situation, the aid group said, "Of the meagre 34 trucks of food and water given permission to enter the North Gaza Governorate over the last 2.5 months, deliberate delays and systematic obstructions by the Israeli military meant that just 12 managed to distribute aid to starving Palestinian civilians."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/absurd-irans-supreme-leader-khamenei-denies-using-proxies-in-west-asia-785976">Iran's Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations, says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently</a>
This count, as per AFP, includes those made through Saturday (Dec 21).
Just a day after Israel slammed Pope Francis for referring to the bombing of children in Gaza as an act of "cruelty," Oxfam reported instances where shelters were destroyed. The aid organisation said that even when deliveries were completed, some were disrupted by subsequent shelling of shelter locations within hours.
"For three of these, once the food and water had been delivered to the school where people were sheltering, it was then cleared and shelled within hours," it alleged.
The aid organisation pointed out that delays and restrictions have left thousands of Palestinians without adequate supplies, deepening the ongoing crisis in the besieged region. Oxfam claimed that it and other international aid groups have been "continually prevented from delivering life-saving aid" in northern Gaza since October 6 this year, when Israel intensified its bombardment of the territory. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-strikes-hamas-command-center-in-former-gaza-school-as-israel-negotiates-hostage-release-786003">Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report</a>
"Thousands of people are estimated to still be cut off, but with humanitarian access blocked it's impossible to know exact numbers," adding that "At the beginning of December, humanitarian organisations operating in Gaza were receiving calls from vulnerable people trapped in homes and shelters that had completely run out of food and water." 
The Oxfam revelations come days after Human Rights Watch recently alleged that Israeli authorities have deliberately restricted water access in Gaza, with devastating consequences. On Thursday (Dec 19) in a report focused on water, the New York-based organization said deliberate efforts by Israeli authorities "of a systematic nature" to deprive Gazans of water, which had "likely caused thousands of deaths... and will likely continue to cause deaths."
(With inputs from agencies)

Raising alarm over the worsening situation, the aid group said, "Of the meagre 34 trucks of food and water given permission to enter the North Gaza Governorate over the last 2.5 months, deliberate delays and systematic obstructions by the Israeli military meant that just 12 managed to distribute aid to starving Palestinian civilians"



United Nations, United States Even as the global community continues to raise alarm over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, an Oxfam report on Sunday (Dec 22) revealed that in the last two-and-a-half months, since October, only 12 trucks distributed aid amid Israel blockades. Systematic 'cruelty'? Raising alarm over the worsening situation, the aid group said, "Of the meagre 34 trucks of food and water given permission to enter the North Gaza Governorate over the last 2.5 months, deliberate delays and systematic obstructions by the Israeli military meant that just 12 managed to distribute aid to starving Palestinian civilians." Also read | Iran's Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations, says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently This count, as per AFP, includes those made through Saturday (Dec 21). Just a day after Israel slammed Pope Francis for referring to the bombing of children in Gaza as an act of "cruelty," Oxfam reported instances where shelters were destroyed. The aid organisation said that even when deliveries were completed, some were disrupted by subsequent shelling of shelter locations within hours. "For three of these, once the food and water had been delivered to the school where people were sheltering, it was then cleared and shelled within hours," it alleged. The aid organisation pointed out that delays and restrictions have left thousands of Palestinians without adequate supplies, deepening the ongoing crisis in the besieged region. Oxfam claimed that it and other international aid groups have been "continually prevented from delivering life-saving aid" in northern Gaza since October 6 this year, when Israel intensified its bombardment of the territory. Also read | Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report "Thousands of people are estimated to still be cut off, but with humanitarian access blocked it's impossible to know exact numbers," adding that "At the beginning of December, humanitarian organisations operating in Gaza were receiving calls from vulnerable people trapped in homes and shelters that had completely run out of food and water." The Oxfam revelations come days after Human Rights Watch recently alleged that Israeli authorities have deliberately restricted water access in Gaza, with devastating consequences. On Thursday (Dec 19) in a report focused on water, the New York-based organization said deliberate efforts by Israeli authorities "of a systematic nature" to deprive Gazans of water, which had "likely caused thousands of deaths... and will likely continue to cause deaths." (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the parliament on Monday (Dec 23) that some progress had been made in negotiations to secure the release of hostages in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the parliament on Monday (Dec 23) that some progress had been made in negotiations to secure the release of hostages in Gaza. "Everything we are doing cannot be disclosed. We are taking actions to bring them back. I wish to say cautiously that there has been some progress, and we will not stop acting until we bring them all home," Prime Minister Netanyahu said, as talks to reach a deal have been renewed in recent days. The war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip has been going on for more than a year now. Also read | Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report The only ceasefire so far, in November last year, saw the release of about 100 hostages by Hamas and its allies in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. 'Gaza deal closer than ever' Netanyahu's comments to the Israeli Parliament came two days after three Palestinian militant groups said in a rare joint statement that a deal for a ceasefire in the Gaza war and to exchange prisoners was "closer than ever." Also watch | The West Asia Post: Gaza ceasefire in sight? In recent days, indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States were held in Doha, rekindling hope of an agreement, more than 14 months into the Gaza war. A hope for families of the hostages On Monday, Netanyahu told Parliament, "Everything we are doing cannot be disclosed. We are taking actions to bring them (hostages) back. I wish to say cautiously that there has been some progress, and we will not stop acting until we bring them all home." "I want to say to the families of the hostages: We are thinking of you and we will not give up on your loved ones, who are our loved ones as well," the Israeli PM added. (With inputs from agencies)

The wife of an American hostage held by Palestinian militant organisation Hamas in Gaza has pleaded with negotiators to bring her husband back. Aviva Siegel, a former hostage herself, reacted to a video released by the Gaza-based group in April, saying, “I just saw the picture. He looks terrible. His bones are out, and you can see that he’s lost a lot of weight.”

Siegel told US news outlet New York Post that she was worried about “what kind of Keith Siegel (her husband) that we’re going to get back.” “He doesn’t look like himself. And I’m just so worried about him, because so [many] days and minutes have passed since that video that we received,” she added.

She added that she was also worried about all hostages, as the conditions that they are facing are the worst any human can ever go through.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjrgqGwy72KAxXpklYBHVUNNZkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gotta-keep-this-sucker-for-a-little-while-trump-signals-averting-ban-on-tiktok-786087" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/gotta-keep-this-sucker-for-a-little-while-trump-signals-averting-ban-on-tiktok-786087&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjrgqGwy72KAxXpklYBHVUNNZkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">‘Gotta keep this sucker for a little while,’ Trump signals averting ban on TikTok</a>

“I was there. I touched death. I know what it feels being underneath the ground with no oxygen. Keith and I were just left there. We were left there to die,” the woman said, recalling her own experience while being in captivity.

The couple was abducted by Hamas militants during Oct 7 attack from their home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza. They remained together in Gaza for 51 days, until Aviva was freed in November last year under a hostage exchange deal. After her release, Aviva said she had a terrible stomach infection while being hostage and fell extremely ill.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwint4q0y72KAxVZ2jQHHak4Ks4QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-12-aid-trucks-reached-starving-civilians-in-northern-gaza-since-october-reveals-oxfam-786062" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/only-12-aid-trucks-reached-starving-civilians-in-northern-gaza-since-october-reveals-oxfam-786062&amp;ved=2ahUKEwint4q0y72KAxVZ2jQHHak4Ks4QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Only 12 aid trucks reached starving civilians in northern Gaza since October, reveals Oxfam</a>

Now, Aviva has been fighting for her husband’s release for months. She has already met top officials in the US as well as Israel and has travelled to the US as many as nine times this year alone.

“I just hope that he’s with other people from Israel, and if he has them, he’s going to be okay,” Aviva said. “He’s just the person that will make them feel that they’re together. That’s what he did when I was there – he was 100% for me and the hostages that we were with.”

(With inputs from agencies)

The wife of an American hostage held by Palestinian militant organisation Hamas in Gaza has pleaded with negotiators to bring her husband back. Aviva Siegel, a former hostage herself, reacted to a video released by the Gaza-based group in April, saying, “I just saw the picture.

The wife of an American hostage held by Palestinian militant organisation Hamas in Gaza has pleaded with negotiators to bring her husband back. Aviva Siegel, a former hostage herself, reacted to a video released by the Gaza-based group in April, saying, “I just saw the picture. He looks terrible. His bones are out, and you can see that he’s lost a lot of weight.” Siegel told US news outlet New York Post that she was worried about “what kind of Keith Siegel (her husband) that we’re going to get back.” “He doesn’t look like himself. And I’m just so worried about him, because so [many] days and minutes have passed since that video that we received,” she added. She added that she was also worried about all hostages, as the conditions that they are facing are the worst any human can ever go through. Also read: ‘Gotta keep this sucker for a little while,’ Trump signals averting ban on TikTok “I was there. I touched death. I know what it feels being underneath the ground with no oxygen. Keith and I were just left there. We were left there to die,” the woman said, recalling her own experience while being in captivity. The couple was abducted by Hamas militants during Oct 7 attack from their home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza. They remained together in Gaza for 51 days, until Aviva was freed in November last year under a hostage exchange deal. After her release, Aviva said she had a terrible stomach infection while being hostage and fell extremely ill. Also read: Only 12 aid trucks reached starving civilians in northern Gaza since October, reveals Oxfam Now, Aviva has been fighting for her husband’s release for months. She has already met top officials in the US as well as Israel and has travelled to the US as many as nine times this year alone. “I just hope that he’s with other people from Israel, and if he has them, he’s going to be okay,” Aviva said. “He’s just the person that will make them feel that they’re together. That’s what he did when I was there – he was 100% for me and the hostages that we were with.” (With inputs from agencies)

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

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



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

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

Tel Aviv, Israel
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz threatened to "crush Hezbollah's head" if the Lebanon-based militant group violates the ceasefire agreement. 
Katz was on a visit to an Israeli military position in southern Lebanon.
“We defanged the snake, and if Hezbollah does not withdraw beyond the Litani [River] and tries to violate the ceasefire, we will crush its head,” Katz said in the remarks shared by his office. 
He further said that we will not allow Hezbollah operatives to return to the southern villages. 
"We will not allow Hezbollah operatives to return to the southern villages and reestablish the terror infrastructure that will pose a threat to the northern communities,” he added.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/absurd-irans-supreme-leader-khamenei-denies-using-proxies-in-west-asia-785976">Also read: Iran's Khamenei says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently, rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations</a>
The minister stressed that Israel would make sure that the threat was removed. 
"We will ensure the removal of the threat and the restoration of security to allow the residents of the north to return safely to their homes,” Katz said.
<h2>Two Israelis charged for contact with Hezbollah </h2>
Two residents of Jerusalem were indicted for having contact with the Hezbollah group and providing them with information during the war. 
The two men, Abd al-Salam Qawasameh and Taar Asili, who are in their 30s, were in contact via a WhatsApp group with a woman using the name "Diana", who was a Hezbollah operative. 
According to the indictment, even after knowing that she was a member of Hezbollah, the two men continued to maintain contact with her and shared information about Israel. 
Qawasameh shared the handler photos from the coastal town for Caesarea. In Caesarea, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has a private residence. 
Watch | Israel-Hezbollah War: Why Is Hezbollah Targeting Haifa?
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Meanwhile, Asili sent her news articles about Israel and the security situation, the indictment read. 
The pair was also allegedly asked to speak with a senior Hezbollah intelligence officer. Asili bought a new SIM card to contact the officer but refused a request to take photos in the northern border town of Metula. 
The two have been charged with "contact with a foreign agent" and passing information to the enemy. 
Moreover, Qawasameh has also been charged with weapon offences after he took a photo with an assault rifle that belonged to a Palestinian gunman during a visit to the West Bank city of Jenin. 
The prosecution has appealed to the Jerusalem District Court to keep them in custody until the legal proceedings are concluded. 
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

“We defanged the snake, and if Hezbollah does not withdraw beyond the Litani [River] and tries to violate the ceasefire, we will crush its head,” Katz said in the remarks shared by his office. 



Tel Aviv, Israel Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz threatened to "crush Hezbollah's head" if the Lebanon-based militant group violates the ceasefire agreement. Katz was on a visit to an Israeli military position in southern Lebanon. “We defanged the snake, and if Hezbollah does not withdraw beyond the Litani [River] and tries to violate the ceasefire, we will crush its head,” Katz said in the remarks shared by his office. He further said that we will not allow Hezbollah operatives to return to the southern villages. "We will not allow Hezbollah operatives to return to the southern villages and reestablish the terror infrastructure that will pose a threat to the northern communities,” he added. Also read: Iran's Khamenei says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently, rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations The minister stressed that Israel would make sure that the threat was removed. "We will ensure the removal of the threat and the restoration of security to allow the residents of the north to return safely to their homes,” Katz said. Two Israelis charged for contact with Hezbollah Two residents of Jerusalem were indicted for having contact with the Hezbollah group and providing them with information during the war. The two men, Abd al-Salam Qawasameh and Taar Asili, who are in their 30s, were in contact via a WhatsApp group with a woman using the name "Diana", who was a Hezbollah operative. According to the indictment, even after knowing that she was a member of Hezbollah, the two men continued to maintain contact with her and shared information about Israel. Qawasameh shared the handler photos from the coastal town for Caesarea. In Caesarea, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has a private residence. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah War: Why Is Hezbollah Targeting Haifa? × Meanwhile, Asili sent her news articles about Israel and the security situation, the indictment read. The pair was also allegedly asked to speak with a senior Hezbollah intelligence officer. Asili bought a new SIM card to contact the officer but refused a request to take photos in the northern border town of Metula. The two have been charged with "contact with a foreign agent" and passing information to the enemy. Moreover, Qawasameh has also been charged with weapon offences after he took a photo with an assault rifle that belonged to a Palestinian gunman during a visit to the West Bank city of Jenin. The prosecution has appealed to the Jerusalem District Court to keep them in custody until the legal proceedings are concluded. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli minister Katz threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if it violates ceasefire

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

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



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

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

Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out.

The pope's remarks came just a day after reports from Gaza's civil defence agency claimed an Israeli airstrike killed seven children from a single family.&nbsp;

Speaking at the Vatican, he lamented, "Yesterday, children were bombed. This is cruelty, this is not war." He also slammed&nbsp;Israel's alleged refusal to allow the Patriarch of Jerusalem into Gaza "as promised".

<h2>Israel responds sharply</h2>

Israel's foreign ministry in a statement said that the Pope's comments were "particularly disappointing", and claimed, they were "disconnected" from the broader context of its fight against "jihadist terrorism — a multi-front war that was forced upon it starting on October 7."

"Enough with the double standards and the singling out of the Jewish state and its people," the statement read, arguing that the true cruelty lies in Hamas, using children as shields and holding hostages, including infants, for over 400 days.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-destroys-75-km-of-hamas-tunnels-denies-reports-of-civilian-killings-in-gazas-netzarim-corridor-785636">IDF destroys 7.5 km of Hamas tunnels, denies reports of civilian killings in Gaza's Netzarim Corridor</a>

"Cruelty is terrorists hiding behind children while trying to murder Israeli children; cruelty is holding 100 hostages for 442 days, including a baby and children, by terrorists and abusing them," the Israeli statement said.&nbsp;

This refers to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack that left 1,208 Israelis dead and 251 hostages taken, sparking the current war in Gaza. &nbsp;

<h2>Civilians caught in crossfire</h2>

Gaza's civil defence agency reported that Friday's airstrike killed 10 family members, including seven children, in the northern region of the territory. The Israeli military countered, saying it had "several terrorists who were operating in a military structure belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation and posed a threat to IDF troops operating in the area".

It also questioned the reported casualty figures and said: "According to an initial examination, the reported number of casualties resulting from the strike does not align with the information held by the IDF."

The war, raging for over 14 months, has claimed at least 45,206 lives in Gaza, primarily civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The United Nations has deemed these figures credible.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-launches-retaliatory-strike-on-houthi-targets-in-yemen-after-attack-on-israels-tel-aviv-785886">US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv</a>

<h2>The Pope's tough&nbsp;stance</h2>

Pope Francis, 88, has consistently called for peace but has recently taken a firmer stance. In November, he slammed Israel for its "invader's arrogance" in Palestine,&nbsp;breaking from the Holy See’s tradition of neutrality.&nbsp;

In a new book, the pope even suggested examining whether the Gaza situation meets the definition of genocide, a claim firmly dismissed by Israel. The Vatican officially recognised the State of Palestine in 2013 and supports a two-state solution. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out.

Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out. The pope's remarks came just a day after reports from Gaza's civil defence agency claimed an Israeli airstrike killed seven children from a single family. Speaking at the Vatican, he lamented, "Yesterday, children were bombed. This is cruelty, this is not war." He also slammed Israel's alleged refusal to allow the Patriarch of Jerusalem into Gaza "as promised". Israel responds sharply Israel's foreign ministry in a statement said that the Pope's comments were "particularly disappointing", and claimed, they were "disconnected" from the broader context of its fight against "jihadist terrorism — a multi-front war that was forced upon it starting on October 7." "Enough with the double standards and the singling out of the Jewish state and its people," the statement read, arguing that the true cruelty lies in Hamas, using children as shields and holding hostages, including infants, for over 400 days. Also read | IDF destroys 7.5 km of Hamas tunnels, denies reports of civilian killings in Gaza's Netzarim Corridor "Cruelty is terrorists hiding behind children while trying to murder Israeli children; cruelty is holding 100 hostages for 442 days, including a baby and children, by terrorists and abusing them," the Israeli statement said. This refers to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack that left 1,208 Israelis dead and 251 hostages taken, sparking the current war in Gaza. Civilians caught in crossfire Gaza's civil defence agency reported that Friday's airstrike killed 10 family members, including seven children, in the northern region of the territory. The Israeli military countered, saying it had "several terrorists who were operating in a military structure belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation and posed a threat to IDF troops operating in the area". It also questioned the reported casualty figures and said: "According to an initial examination, the reported number of casualties resulting from the strike does not align with the information held by the IDF." The war, raging for over 14 months, has claimed at least 45,206 lives in Gaza, primarily civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The United Nations has deemed these figures credible. Also read | US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv The Pope's tough stance Pope Francis, 88, has consistently called for peace but has recently taken a firmer stance. In November, he slammed Israel for its "invader's arrogance" in Palestine, breaking from the Holy See’s tradition of neutrality. In a new book, the pope even suggested examining whether the Gaza situation meets the definition of genocide, a claim firmly dismissed by Israel. The Vatican officially recognised the State of Palestine in 2013 and supports a two-state solution. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel slams Pope Francis for 'double standards' after pontiff condemns Gaza bombings as 'cruelty'

Vatican City, Holy See
Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out.
The pope's remarks came just a day after reports from Gaza's civil defence agency claimed an Israeli airstrike killed seven children from a single family. 
Speaking at the Vatican, he lamented, "Yesterday, children were bombed. This is cruelty, this is not war." He also slammed Israel's alleged refusal to allow the Patriarch of Jerusalem into Gaza "as promised".
<h2>Israel responds sharply</h2>
Israel's foreign ministry in a statement said that the Pope's comments were "particularly disappointing", and claimed, they were "disconnected" from the broader context of its fight against "jihadist terrorism — a multi-front war that was forced upon it starting on October 7."
"Enough with the double standards and the singling out of the Jewish state and its people," the statement read, arguing that the true cruelty lies in Hamas, using children as shields and holding hostages, including infants, for over 400 days. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-destroys-75-km-of-hamas-tunnels-denies-reports-of-civilian-killings-in-gazas-netzarim-corridor-785636">IDF destroys 7.5 km of Hamas tunnels, denies reports of civilian killings in Gaza's Netzarim Corridor</a>
"Cruelty is terrorists hiding behind children while trying to murder Israeli children; cruelty is holding 100 hostages for 442 days, including a baby and children, by terrorists and abusing them," the Israeli statement said. 
This refers to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack that left 1,208 Israelis dead and 251 hostages taken, sparking the current war in Gaza.  
<h2>Civilians caught in crossfire</h2>
Gaza's civil defence agency reported that Friday's airstrike killed 10 family members, including seven children, in the northern region of the territory. The Israeli military countered, saying it had "several terrorists who were operating in a military structure belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation and posed a threat to IDF troops operating in the area".
It also questioned the reported casualty figures and said: "According to an initial examination, the reported number of casualties resulting from the strike does not align with the information held by the IDF."
The war, raging for over 14 months, has claimed at least 45,206 lives in Gaza, primarily civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The United Nations has deemed these figures credible.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-launches-retaliatory-strike-on-houthi-targets-in-yemen-after-attack-on-israels-tel-aviv-785886">US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv</a>
<h2>The Pope's tough stance</h2>
Pope Francis, 88, has consistently called for peace but has recently taken a firmer stance. In November, he slammed Israel for its "invader's arrogance" in Palestine, breaking from the Holy See’s tradition of neutrality. 
In a new book, the pope even suggested examining whether the Gaza situation meets the definition of genocide, a claim firmly dismissed by Israel. The Vatican officially recognised the State of Palestine in 2013 and supports a two-state solution.  
(With inputs from agencies)

Speaking at the Vatican, Pope Francis lamented, "Yesterday, children were bombed. This is cruelty, this is not war"



Vatican City, Holy See Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out. The pope's remarks came just a day after reports from Gaza's civil defence agency claimed an Israeli airstrike killed seven children from a single family. Speaking at the Vatican, he lamented, "Yesterday, children were bombed. This is cruelty, this is not war." He also slammed Israel's alleged refusal to allow the Patriarch of Jerusalem into Gaza "as promised". Israel responds sharply Israel's foreign ministry in a statement said that the Pope's comments were "particularly disappointing", and claimed, they were "disconnected" from the broader context of its fight against "jihadist terrorism — a multi-front war that was forced upon it starting on October 7." "Enough with the double standards and the singling out of the Jewish state and its people," the statement read, arguing that the true cruelty lies in Hamas, using children as shields and holding hostages, including infants, for over 400 days. Also read | IDF destroys 7.5 km of Hamas tunnels, denies reports of civilian killings in Gaza's Netzarim Corridor "Cruelty is terrorists hiding behind children while trying to murder Israeli children; cruelty is holding 100 hostages for 442 days, including a baby and children, by terrorists and abusing them," the Israeli statement said. This refers to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack that left 1,208 Israelis dead and 251 hostages taken, sparking the current war in Gaza. Civilians caught in crossfire Gaza's civil defence agency reported that Friday's airstrike killed 10 family members, including seven children, in the northern region of the territory. The Israeli military countered, saying it had "several terrorists who were operating in a military structure belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation and posed a threat to IDF troops operating in the area". It also questioned the reported casualty figures and said: "According to an initial examination, the reported number of casualties resulting from the strike does not align with the information held by the IDF." The war, raging for over 14 months, has claimed at least 45,206 lives in Gaza, primarily civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The United Nations has deemed these figures credible. Also read | US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv The Pope's tough stance Pope Francis, 88, has consistently called for peace but has recently taken a firmer stance. In November, he slammed Israel for its "invader's arrogance" in Palestine, breaking from the Holy See’s tradition of neutrality. In a new book, the pope even suggested examining whether the Gaza situation meets the definition of genocide, a claim firmly dismissed by Israel. The Vatican officially recognised the State of Palestine in 2013 and supports a two-state solution. (With inputs from agencies)

Tel Aviv, Israel
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The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) announced on Friday (December 19), that they had destroyed three tunnel routes in the northern Gaza city of Beit Lahia. According to the military, these tunnels spanned a combined length of 7.5 kilometres.
As per media reports, the tunnels were uncovered by the IDF's Kfir Brigade, operating under the command of the 162nd Division. During the operation, soldiers recovered military equipment that had been seized by Hamas fighters during the attacks on 7 October, 2023. Maps of Israeli communities near the Gaza border were also found, as per Jerusalem Post.
<h2>Israeli newspaper report accuses soldiers of randomly killing Gaza civilians</h2>
In another development, an article published by the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, citing anonymous soldiers, accused Israeli forces of carrying out random killings of Palestinian civilians in the Netzarim Corridor in Gaza. The corridor has been designated as a military zone.
The report suggested that commanders were given exceptional authority in Gaza, enabling or ordering the killing of unarmed civilians, including women and children.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-launches-barrage-of-missiles-on-kyiv-killing-1-and-cutting-heating-to-numerous-buildings-785532" target="_blank">Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions</a>
The IDF firmly rejected these claims. "All activities and operations conducted by IDF forces in Gaza, including in the Netzarim Corridor, adhere to structured combat procedures, plans, and operational orders approved by the highest ranks in the army," the military told AFP.
IDF said that all strikes in the area (of Netzarim) are conducted in accordance with the mandatory procedures and protocols, including targets that are struck in an urgent time frame due to essential operational circumstances where ground forces face immediate threats". The military added that any concerns regarding potential deviations from orders or ethical standards are thoroughly investigated.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has caused significant casualties. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, 45,206 Palestinians have been killed, and 107,512 injured since Israel began its military offensive on 7 October, 2023.
<h2>Sweden axes funding for United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees</h2>
In a separate development, Sweden has announced it will stop funding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The country said that it will redirect its support to Gaza through other humanitarian channels, Swedish Aid Minister Benjamin Dousa told broadcaster TV4.
Dousa said that Sweden would consider organisations such as the UN World Food Programme to provide aid. The decision follows repeated accusations by Israel that UNRWA was complicit in Hamas’ attacks on 7 October, 2023, which marked the start of the 13-month-long conflict. Israel has stated it will ban UNRWA’s operations in the country starting January.
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.
(With inputs form agencies)

As per media reports, the tunnels were uncovered by the IDF's Kfir Brigade, operating under the command of the 162nd Division. During the operation, soldiers recovered military equipment that had been seized by Hamas fighters during the attacks on 7 October 2023. Maps of Israeli communities near the Gaza border were also found, as per Jerusalem Post.



Tel Aviv, Israel The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) announced on Friday (December 19), that they had destroyed three tunnel routes in the northern Gaza city of Beit Lahia. According to the military, these tunnels spanned a combined length of 7.5 kilometres. As per media reports, the tunnels were uncovered by the IDF's Kfir Brigade, operating under the command of the 162nd Division. During the operation, soldiers recovered military equipment that had been seized by Hamas fighters during the attacks on 7 October, 2023. Maps of Israeli communities near the Gaza border were also found, as per Jerusalem Post. Israeli newspaper report accuses soldiers of randomly killing Gaza civilians In another development, an article published by the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, citing anonymous soldiers, accused Israeli forces of carrying out random killings of Palestinian civilians in the Netzarim Corridor in Gaza. The corridor has been designated as a military zone. The report suggested that commanders were given exceptional authority in Gaza, enabling or ordering the killing of unarmed civilians, including women and children. Also read: Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions The IDF firmly rejected these claims. "All activities and operations conducted by IDF forces in Gaza, including in the Netzarim Corridor, adhere to structured combat procedures, plans, and operational orders approved by the highest ranks in the army," the military told AFP. IDF said that all strikes in the area (of Netzarim) are conducted in accordance with the mandatory procedures and protocols, including targets that are struck in an urgent time frame due to essential operational circumstances where ground forces face immediate threats". The military added that any concerns regarding potential deviations from orders or ethical standards are thoroughly investigated. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has caused significant casualties. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, 45,206 Palestinians have been killed, and 107,512 injured since Israel began its military offensive on 7 October, 2023. Sweden axes funding for United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees In a separate development, Sweden has announced it will stop funding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The country said that it will redirect its support to Gaza through other humanitarian channels, Swedish Aid Minister Benjamin Dousa told broadcaster TV4. Dousa said that Sweden would consider organisations such as the UN World Food Programme to provide aid. The decision follows repeated accusations by Israel that UNRWA was complicit in Hamas’ attacks on 7 October, 2023, which marked the start of the 13-month-long conflict. Israel has stated it will ban UNRWA’s operations in the country starting January. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs form agencies)

IDF destroys 7.5 km of Hamas tunnels, denies reports of civilian killings in Gaza's Netzarim Corridor

Stockholm, Sweden
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Sweden will no longer fund the U.N. refugee agency for Palestinians (UNRWA) but instead provide humanitarian assistance to Gaza via other channels, the Nordic country's aid minister, Benjamin Dousa, told Swedish broadcaster TV4 on Friday.
Israel, which will ban UNRWA's operations in the country from late January, has repeatedly accused the agency of being involved in the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas-led attacks on Israel that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza.
Sweden's decision to end funding for UNRWA was in response to the Israeli ban, as it will make channelling aid to the Palestinians via the agency more difficult, Dousa said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-launches-barrage-of-missiles-on-kyiv-killing-1-and-cutting-heating-to-numerous-buildings-785532" target="_blank">Russia launches barrage of missiles on Ukraine's Kyiv, killing one</a>
Sweden plans to increase its overall humanitarian assistance to Gaza next year, he added.
"There are several other organisations in Gaza, I have just been there and met several of them," the minister said, naming the U.N. World Food Programme as one potential recipient.
The United Nations General Assembly threw its support behind UNRWA this month, demanding that Israel respect the agency's mandate and "enable its operations to proceed without impediment or restriction".
($1 = 11.0323 Swedish crowns)
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience

Israel, which will ban UNRWA's operations in the country from late January, has repeatedly accused the agency of being involved in the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas-led attacks on Israel that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza.



Stockholm, Sweden Sweden will no longer fund the U.N. refugee agency for Palestinians (UNRWA) but instead provide humanitarian assistance to Gaza via other channels, the Nordic country's aid minister, Benjamin Dousa, told Swedish broadcaster TV4 on Friday. Israel, which will ban UNRWA's operations in the country from late January, has repeatedly accused the agency of being involved in the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas-led attacks on Israel that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza. Sweden's decision to end funding for UNRWA was in response to the Israeli ban, as it will make channelling aid to the Palestinians via the agency more difficult, Dousa said. Also read: Russia launches barrage of missiles on Ukraine's Kyiv, killing one Sweden plans to increase its overall humanitarian assistance to Gaza next year, he added. "There are several other organisations in Gaza, I have just been there and met several of them," the minister said, naming the U.N. World Food Programme as one potential recipient. The United Nations General Assembly threw its support behind UNRWA this month, demanding that Israel respect the agency's mandate and "enable its operations to proceed without impediment or restriction". ($1 = 11.0323 Swedish crowns) Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience

Sweden ends UNRWA funding, vows to redirect aid to Gaza through alternative channels

Doha, Qatar
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Palestinian militant group Hamas said on Tuesday (Dec 17) that talks in Qatar's Doha aimed at a truce and hostage-prisoner exchange in Gaza were "serious and positive."
In a statement, Hamas said, "Hamas affirms that, in light of the serious and positive discussions taking place today in Doha under the auspices of our Qatari and Egyptian brothers, reaching an agreement for a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange is possible if the occupation (Israel) ceases to impose new conditions."
Israel and Hamas have been fighting a war in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023.
<h2>Israeli delegation arrives in Doha for talks</h2>
Hamas' remarks came a day after an Israeli delegation arrived in Doha for talks aimed at bridging gaps (with Hamas). 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-destroyed-gaza-tunnel-hamas-used-to-attack-soldiers-784724">Hamas concerned Trump would allow Israel to resume Gaza war after first phase of ceasefire: Report</a>
Since the Gaza war began, Qatar, along with the United States (US) and Egypt, has been working for months to secure a truce and hostage release deal.
But apart from a one-week pause in fighting late last year, successive negotiations have failed to stop the war.
The ceasefire in late November last year saw scores of Hamas-held hostages being released in exchange for Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. 
<h2>Will a ceasefire happen again?</h2>
According to a report by the news agency AFP, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz indicated on Monday that negotiators from his country had "not been this close to an agreement" for the release of hostages in Gaza since the truce in November last year.
Meanwhile, a senior Hamas official in Doha told AFP that negotiations for the truce deal were "closer than ever before" but warned that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could still "disrupt the agreement as he has done every time before."
<h2>Families of hostages call for immediate ceasefire</h2>
On Tuesday, families of Israeli hostages took to the streets of Tel Aviv to call for an immediate ceasefire deal that would see the release of all 100 hostages in Gaza amid both Israel and Hamas being close to an agreement.
Also watch | Trump warns Hamas to release hostages soon
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Carrying large posters of their loved ones and chanting slogans, the protesters marched on the Tel Aviv headquarters of Prime Minister Netanyahu's Likud party, where they demonstrated outside, a report by the news agency Reuters said.
(With inputs from agencies)

Since the Gaza war began, Qatar, along with the United States (US) and Egypt, has been working for months to secure a truce and hostage release deal. But apart from a one-week pause in fighting late last year, successive negotiations have failed to stop the war.



Doha, Qatar Palestinian militant group Hamas said on Tuesday (Dec 17) that talks in Qatar's Doha aimed at a truce and hostage-prisoner exchange in Gaza were "serious and positive." In a statement, Hamas said, "Hamas affirms that, in light of the serious and positive discussions taking place today in Doha under the auspices of our Qatari and Egyptian brothers, reaching an agreement for a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange is possible if the occupation (Israel) ceases to impose new conditions." Israel and Hamas have been fighting a war in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023. Israeli delegation arrives in Doha for talks Hamas' remarks came a day after an Israeli delegation arrived in Doha for talks aimed at bridging gaps (with Hamas). Also read | Hamas concerned Trump would allow Israel to resume Gaza war after first phase of ceasefire: Report Since the Gaza war began, Qatar, along with the United States (US) and Egypt, has been working for months to secure a truce and hostage release deal. But apart from a one-week pause in fighting late last year, successive negotiations have failed to stop the war. The ceasefire in late November last year saw scores of Hamas-held hostages being released in exchange for Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. Will a ceasefire happen again? According to a report by the news agency AFP, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz indicated on Monday that negotiators from his country had "not been this close to an agreement" for the release of hostages in Gaza since the truce in November last year. Meanwhile, a senior Hamas official in Doha told AFP that negotiations for the truce deal were "closer than ever before" but warned that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could still "disrupt the agreement as he has done every time before." Families of hostages call for immediate ceasefire On Tuesday, families of Israeli hostages took to the streets of Tel Aviv to call for an immediate ceasefire deal that would see the release of all 100 hostages in Gaza amid both Israel and Hamas being close to an agreement. Also watch | Trump warns Hamas to release hostages soon Carrying large posters of their loved ones and chanting slogans, the protesters marched on the Tel Aviv headquarters of Prime Minister Netanyahu's Likud party, where they demonstrated outside, a report by the news agency Reuters said. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Hamas says truce talks in Doha are 'serious and positive'

Gaza 
The Times of Israel reported on Tuesday (Dec 17) that the Palestinian military group Hamas is concerned that US President-elect Donald Trump would allow Israel to resume the war in Gaza after the completion of the first phase of the proposed ceasefire deal.
Although, Trump repeated his statement this week that he would end the Gaza war, but an Israeli official told The Times of Israel that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu believes to possesses more flexibility in Trump's administration than he has in Biden's. 
Hamas also has the same beliefs, hence it is seeking assurance that Netanyahu would not restart the war, the agency reported. 
<h2>'Trying to help...'</h2>
On Monday (Dec 16), Trump said he is working to secure the release of hostages in Gaza. 
“We are trying to help very strongly in getting the hostages back,” the Republican said in a press conference. 
Watch | US News: Donald Trump Warns Hamas To Release Hostages Soon
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<h2>Tunnel destroyed </h2>
The IDF further claimed on December 17 that it had destroyed a tunnel in Gaza's Jabalia that was used by Hamas to kill three IDF soldiers in an attack in October. 
The Israeli military said it discovered the tunnel, which was connected to a 500-metre-long underground passage. 
This came after the IDF announced that its two soldiers were killed on Monday (Dec 16) in southern Gaza. 
The military said the two soldiers were killed while two others were injured after a building they were in collapsed in the Rafah area. The building was already damaged, which led to its collapse. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-unaware-of-everything-happening-says-hannah-kobayashi-after-her-return-784712">'Was unaware of everything happening', says Hannah Kobayashi after her return</a>
<h2>'If we finish the war now...'</h2>
Israel had earlier said that it was seeking a temporary pause in the war. It wants the hostages to be released, and then it would resume the war to "dismantle" Hamas. 
“If we finish the war now, Hamas will return, recover and rebuild itself and attack us again… we don’t want to return to this [situation],” Netanyahu said.
(With inputs from agencies)

The military said the two soldiers were killed while two others were injured after a building they were in collapsed in the Rafah area. The building was already damaged which led to its collapse. 



Gaza The Times of Israel reported on Tuesday (Dec 17) that the Palestinian military group Hamas is concerned that US President-elect Donald Trump would allow Israel to resume the war in Gaza after the completion of the first phase of the proposed ceasefire deal. Although, Trump repeated his statement this week that he would end the Gaza war, but an Israeli official told The Times of Israel that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu believes to possesses more flexibility in Trump's administration than he has in Biden's. Hamas also has the same beliefs, hence it is seeking assurance that Netanyahu would not restart the war, the agency reported. 'Trying to help...' On Monday (Dec 16), Trump said he is working to secure the release of hostages in Gaza. “We are trying to help very strongly in getting the hostages back,” the Republican said in a press conference. Watch | US News: Donald Trump Warns Hamas To Release Hostages Soon Tunnel destroyed The IDF further claimed on December 17 that it had destroyed a tunnel in Gaza's Jabalia that was used by Hamas to kill three IDF soldiers in an attack in October. The Israeli military said it discovered the tunnel, which was connected to a 500-metre-long underground passage. This came after the IDF announced that its two soldiers were killed on Monday (Dec 16) in southern Gaza. The military said the two soldiers were killed while two others were injured after a building they were in collapsed in the Rafah area. The building was already damaged, which led to its collapse. Also read | 'Was unaware of everything happening', says Hannah Kobayashi after her return 'If we finish the war now...' Israel had earlier said that it was seeking a temporary pause in the war. It wants the hostages to be released, and then it would resume the war to "dismantle" Hamas. “If we finish the war now, Hamas will return, recover and rebuild itself and attack us again… we don’t want to return to this [situation],” Netanyahu said. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas concerned Trump would allow Israel to resume Gaza war after first phase of ceasefire: Report

Gaza
Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Tuesday that his country's forces would be free to act in the Gaza Strip even after its war with Hamas ends.
"After eliminating Hamas's military and governmental capabilities in Gaza, Israel would have security control over Gaza with complete freedom of action" for the Israeli military, Katz said in a post on X, noting that it was his own "position".
Katz said that Israel's future control over Gaza should be "exactly like in Judea and Samaria", the biblical names for the West Bank which Israel has occupied since 1967 and where its forces conduct frequent raids.
The question of Gaza's post-war governance has remained unresolved, more than a year since Israel vowed to crush Hamas in retaliation for its October 7, 2023 attack.
Katz's predecessor Yoav Gallant had voiced firm opposition to any prolonged Israeli control of Gaza, from which Israel withdrew troops and settlers in 2005 after decades of direct rule.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjU96zd066KAxW51TgGHc7iLHk4ChDF9AEoAHoECBIQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-proposes-new-deal-all-hostages-to-be-freed-at-once-end-war-in-gaza-report-760091" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-proposes-new-deal-all-hostages-to-be-freed-at-once-end-war-in-gaza-report-760091&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjU96zd066KAxW51TgGHc7iLHk4ChDF9AEoAHoECBIQAQ">Israel proposes new deal seeking release of all hostages, ending war in Gaza: Report</a>
In May, then as defence minister, Gallant said that he would "not agree to the establishment of an Israeli military administration in Gaza".
"Israel must not have civilian control over the Gaza Strip," Gallant said at the time, urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to devise a post-war plan for the territory.
Netanyahu sacked Gallant in November, citing disagreements over war policies.
The Israeli leader replaced Gallant with Katz, a former foreign minister who Israeli analysts say is more likely to endorse the Netanyahu's views.
Hamas seized full control of Gaza in 2007, capping months of clashes with other Palestinian factions after it won legislative elections the year before.
Watch: Israel-Gaza War: How Close Is A Gaza Ceasefire Deal?
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The Hamas attack that sparked the war resulted in the deaths of 1,208 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures and includes hostages killed in captivity.
Israel's retaliatory campaign has killed at least 45,028 people in Gaza, most of them civilians, according to the figures from the Hamas-run territory's health ministry which the United Nations considers reliable.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The question of Gaza's post-war governance has remained unresolved, more than a year since Israel vowed to crush Hamas in retaliation for its October 7, 2023 attack.



Gaza Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Tuesday that his country's forces would be free to act in the Gaza Strip even after its war with Hamas ends. "After eliminating Hamas's military and governmental capabilities in Gaza, Israel would have security control over Gaza with complete freedom of action" for the Israeli military, Katz said in a post on X, noting that it was his own "position". Katz said that Israel's future control over Gaza should be "exactly like in Judea and Samaria", the biblical names for the West Bank which Israel has occupied since 1967 and where its forces conduct frequent raids. The question of Gaza's post-war governance has remained unresolved, more than a year since Israel vowed to crush Hamas in retaliation for its October 7, 2023 attack. Katz's predecessor Yoav Gallant had voiced firm opposition to any prolonged Israeli control of Gaza, from which Israel withdrew troops and settlers in 2005 after decades of direct rule. Also read: Israel proposes new deal seeking release of all hostages, ending war in Gaza: Report In May, then as defence minister, Gallant said that he would "not agree to the establishment of an Israeli military administration in Gaza". "Israel must not have civilian control over the Gaza Strip," Gallant said at the time, urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to devise a post-war plan for the territory. Netanyahu sacked Gallant in November, citing disagreements over war policies. The Israeli leader replaced Gallant with Katz, a former foreign minister who Israeli analysts say is more likely to endorse the Netanyahu's views. Hamas seized full control of Gaza in 2007, capping months of clashes with other Palestinian factions after it won legislative elections the year before. Watch: Israel-Gaza War: How Close Is A Gaza Ceasefire Deal? × The Hamas attack that sparked the war resulted in the deaths of 1,208 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures and includes hostages killed in captivity. Israel's retaliatory campaign has killed at least 45,028 people in Gaza, most of them civilians, according to the figures from the Hamas-run territory's health ministry which the United Nations considers reliable. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israel minister Katz says will maintain control over Gaza after war ends

Palestinian militant group Hamas said on Tuesday (Dec 17) that talks in Qatar's Doha aimed at a truce and hostage-prisoner exchange in Gaza were "serious and positive.

Palestinian militant group Hamas said on Tuesday (Dec 17) that talks in Qatar's Doha aimed at a truce and hostage-prisoner exchange in Gaza were "serious and positive." In a statement, Hamas said, "Hamas affirms that, in light of the serious and positive discussions taking place today in Doha under the auspices of our Qatari and Egyptian brothers, reaching an agreement for a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange is possible if the occupation (Israel) ceases to impose new conditions." Israel and Hamas have been fighting a war in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023. Israeli delegation arrives in Doha for talks Hamas' remarks came a day after an Israeli delegation arrived in Doha for talks aimed at bridging gaps (with Hamas). Also read | Hamas concerned Trump would allow Israel to resume Gaza war after first phase of ceasefire: Report Since the Gaza war began, Qatar, along with the United States (US) and Egypt, has been working for months to secure a truce and hostage release deal. But apart from a one-week pause in fighting late last year, successive negotiations have failed to stop the war. The ceasefire in late November last year saw scores of Hamas-held hostages being released in exchange for Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. Will a ceasefire happen again? According to a report by the news agency AFP, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz indicated on Monday that negotiators from his country had "not been this close to an agreement" for the release of hostages in Gaza since the truce in November last year. Meanwhile, a senior Hamas official in Doha told AFP that negotiations for the truce deal were "closer than ever before" but warned that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could still "disrupt the agreement as he has done every time before." Families of hostages call for immediate ceasefire On Tuesday, families of Israeli hostages took to the streets of Tel Aviv to call for an immediate ceasefire deal that would see the release of all 100 hostages in Gaza amid both Israel and Hamas being close to an agreement. Also watch | Trump warns Hamas to release hostages soon Carrying large posters of their loved ones and chanting slogans, the protesters marched on the Tel Aviv headquarters of Prime Minister Netanyahu's Likud party, where they demonstrated outside, a report by the news agency Reuters said. (With inputs from agencies)

Tel Aviv, Israel
Israeli strikes on the Syrian military sites filled the skies with 'colossal' explosions as the blasts got registered on earthquake sensors,  according to a war monitor group.
The military sites located in the coastal Tartus region were targeted by what was one of "the heaviest strikes" in the Syrian area in more than a decade, said Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
"Israeli warplanes launched strikes' targeting a series of sites including air defence units and 'surface-to-surface missile depots," the war monitor said in what it called "the heaviest strikes in Syria's coastal region since the start of strikes in 2012."
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BREAKING:
???? The Israeli airstrike and the resulting explosion in Tartous, Syria was so large, that an earthquake alert of 3.0 on the Richter Scale was triggered <a href="https://t.co/DNqdJEOIKs">pic.twitter.com/DNqdJEOIKs</a>
— Megatron (@Megatron_ron) <a href="https://twitter.com/Megatron_ron/status/1868453865781109114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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As per the officials, the explosion was so huge that its magnitude of 3.0 was recorded on seismic sensors.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-greenlights-11-million-plan-to-double-golan-heights-population-amid-regional-tensions-784232">Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions</a>
Tartus has been one of the two military bases of Russia in Syria and was earlier used as a naval base and an ammunition depot.
The huge explosion, along with the secondary explosions, indicated that a large volume of stored armaments was present in the area.
<h2>Video of the explosion circulates on social media </h2>
In the dramatic videos which circulated on the social media platform, a huge bright flash was seen, followed by various explosions that led to the formation of an enormous cloud of smoke into the air. 
Watch: Israel Aims to 'Double Population' in Occupied Golan Heights
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Earlier, Russia's foreign ministry said that it had evacuated some of the diplomatic staff from Syria, a week after the nation's dictator Bashar al-Assad fled the country.
As per researcher Richard Cordaro, a magnetometer station which is 820km away in Isnik, Turkey also detected the blast.
He said the signal travelled nearly 'twice as fast' as that of a normal earthquake.
In 1971, the Soviet Union was the one to first establish a naval military base in Tartus.
The facility had been classed as a "Material-Technical Support Point" till 2017 and not as a base, and is the only entrance point to the Mediterranean for Russia.
The centre was used for carrying out the supply and delivery of armaments after Russia participated in the Syrian civil war in 2015.
A Kremlin spokesperson said on Wednesday (Dec 11) that Moscow has been in touch with the new authorities in Syria and discussing the future of their bases.
(With inputs from agencies)
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

As per the war monitor group, one of "the heaviest strikes" targeted the coastal Tartus region of Syria

 



Tel Aviv, Israel Israeli strikes on the Syrian military sites filled the skies with 'colossal' explosions as the blasts got registered on earthquake sensors, according to a war monitor group. The military sites located in the coastal Tartus region were targeted by what was one of "the heaviest strikes" in the Syrian area in more than a decade, said Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. "Israeli warplanes launched strikes' targeting a series of sites including air defence units and 'surface-to-surface missile depots," the war monitor said in what it called "the heaviest strikes in Syria's coastal region since the start of strikes in 2012." BREAKING: ???? The Israeli airstrike and the resulting explosion in Tartous, Syria was so large, that an earthquake alert of 3.0 on the Richter Scale was triggered pic.twitter.com/DNqdJEOIKs — Megatron (@Megatron_ron) December 16, 2024 × As per the officials, the explosion was so huge that its magnitude of 3.0 was recorded on seismic sensors. Also Read: Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions Tartus has been one of the two military bases of Russia in Syria and was earlier used as a naval base and an ammunition depot. The huge explosion, along with the secondary explosions, indicated that a large volume of stored armaments was present in the area. Video of the explosion circulates on social media In the dramatic videos which circulated on the social media platform, a huge bright flash was seen, followed by various explosions that led to the formation of an enormous cloud of smoke into the air. Watch: Israel Aims to 'Double Population' in Occupied Golan Heights Earlier, Russia's foreign ministry said that it had evacuated some of the diplomatic staff from Syria, a week after the nation's dictator Bashar al-Assad fled the country. As per researcher Richard Cordaro, a magnetometer station which is 820km away in Isnik, Turkey also detected the blast. He said the signal travelled nearly 'twice as fast' as that of a normal earthquake. In 1971, the Soviet Union was the one to first establish a naval military base in Tartus. The facility had been classed as a "Material-Technical Support Point" till 2017 and not as a base, and is the only entrance point to the Mediterranean for Russia. The centre was used for carrying out the supply and delivery of armaments after Russia participated in the Syrian civil war in 2015. A Kremlin spokesperson said on Wednesday (Dec 11) that Moscow has been in touch with the new authorities in Syria and discussing the future of their bases. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Watch: Israel drops 'earthquake bomb' on Syria, explosion gets 'registered on Richter scale'

The Israeli government on Thursday (Dec. 5) slammed the report released by Amnesty International which accused Israel of genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

The Israeli government on Thursday (Dec. 5) slammed the report released by Amnesty International which accused Israel of genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. In a statement, the Israeli foreign ministry said, "The deplorable and fanatical organisation Amnesty International has once again produced a fabricated report that is entirely false and based on lies." Also read | Hamas threatens to 'neutralise' hostages if Israel launches rescue operation: Report The ministry said that it was instead Hamas' unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7 last year that was genocidal. "Israel is defending itself... acting fully by international law," the ministry added. What did the Amnesty International report say? Earlier on Thursday, Amnesty International released a 296-page report that documented Israel's actions during its offensive in the Gaza Strip since October last year. The report is titled ‘You Feel Like You Are Subhuman’: Israel’s Genocide Against Palestinians in Gaza The report examines the killing of civilians, the damage to and destruction of civilian infrastructure, the forcible displacement, the obstruction or denial of life-saving goods and humanitarian aid, and the restriction of power supplies. The report also analyses Israel's intent through this pattern of conduct and statements by Israeli decision-makers. According to Amnesty, its international research team found sufficient basis to conclude that Israel "committed and is continuing to commit genocide against Palestinians," in Gaza. 'Hamas' attack can never justify Israel's genocide in Gaza' In a statement, Amnesty International said on Thursday that it interviewed more than 200 people, including Palestinian victims and witnesses and local authorities in Gaza, and conducted fieldwork and analysed an extensive range of visual and digital evidence, including satellite imagery. Also watch | IDF fortifies military bases in central Gaza × The organisation analysed statements by senior Israeli government and military officials, and official Israeli bodies. On multiple occasions, it shared its findings with the Israeli authorities but had received no substantive response at the time of publication. “The atrocity crimes committed on 7 October 2023 by Hamas and other armed groups against Israelis and victims of other nationalities, including deliberate mass killings and hostage-taking, can never justify Israel’s genocide against Palestinians in Gaza,” Amnesty said. (With inputs from agencies)

It's based on lies: Israel slams Amnesty report which accuses it of genocide in Gaza Strip

Palestinian militant group Hamas and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah party announced on Tuesday (Dec. 3) that they have agreed to create a committee to jointly run post-war Gaza, the news agency AFP reported, citing negotiators from both sides.

Palestinian militant group Hamas and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah party announced on Tuesday (Dec. 3) that they have agreed to create a committee to jointly run post-war Gaza, the news agency AFP reported, citing negotiators from both sides. The committee would be composed of 10 to 15 non-partisan figures with authority on matters related to the economy, education, health, humanitarian aid, and reconstruction. Hamas and Fatah have been rivals since the militant group ejected Fatah from the Gaza Strip after deadly clashes that followed Hamas' victory in the 2006 election. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Ex-minister accuses Israel of ethnic cleansing in northern Gaza Strip Hamas seized control of Gaza in 2007. The Fatah, meanwhile, has been controlling the Palestinian Authority (PA) and also has partial administrative control in the Israel-occupied West Bank. Plan needs Abbas' approval The final plan (to jointly run post-war Gaza) would need Palestinian President Abbas' approval. Following recent talks in Cairo brokered by Egypt, Hamas and Fatah agreed that the committee would administer the Palestinian side of the Rafah checkpoint on the border with Egypt—the territory's only crossing that is not shared with Israel. Also watch | Gulf leaders demand immediate ceasefire in Gaza × The agreement on the formation of the committee comes at a time of renewed diplomatic efforts to end the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, which has been going on since October 7 last year. A wide debate on who will run post-war Gaza The issue of who will govern Gaza after the war has been widely debated. Palestinians have insisted that the territory's future should be theirs to decide, rejecting any foreign intervention. Israeli authorities have said they do not intend to govern Gaza but firmly oppose Hamas returning to power. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas and Palestinian president's Fatah party agree on joint committee to run post-war Gaza

US President Joe Biden expressed deep sorrow and anger on Monday (Dec 2) following Israel's confirmation that the body of a soldier killed during Hamas's October 7 attack last year — an American citizen — was held by Hamas in Gaza.

<h2>Devastated and outraged</h2>

In a statement, Biden said he was "devastated and outraged" to hear that Hamas has "apparently been holding"&nbsp;Israeli tank commander Captain Omer Maxim Neutra's body "since they killed him during their brutal terrorist attack on October 7".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-israeli-hostage-cpt-omer-neutra-killed-on-oct-7-body-held-by-hamas-in-gaza-confirms-idf-780863">US-Israeli hostage Cpt Omer Neutra killed on Oct 7, body held by Hamas in Gaza, confirms IDF</a>

"To all the families of those still held hostage: We see you. We are with you. And I will not stop working to bring your loved ones back home where they belong," vowed Biden.

Taking to X, Biden wrote: "Jill and I are devastated and outraged to learn of the death of Omer Neutra, an American citizen".

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jill and I are devastated and outraged to learn of the death of Omer Neutra, an American citizen, whose body Hamas has held since they killed him on October 7. 
 
We join Omer’s parents, brother, and family in grieving this tragic loss, and pray to find strength and resilience.
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1863711134609547753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Omer Maxim Neutra</h2>

As per US President Biden's statement, 21-year-old Neutra was among the first responders to "Hamas's campaign of cruelty".

The Israeli Army, in a statement on Monday, claimed that Neutra's body was still in the custody of the Palestinian militant group in Gaza. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pledges-24-million-in-gaza-aid-urges-israel-to-ensure-unimpeded-aid-access-780724">UK pledges $24 million in Gaza aid, urges Israel to 'ensure unimpeded access'</a>

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, an advocacy group for the relatives of those taken hostage during the attack, said Neutra was born in the United States before immigrating to Israel, where he joined the military. &nbsp;

"This morning, his family was informed of his death on October 7th," it said in a statement, as quoted by AFP.

<h2>Netanyahu vows 'we will not rest'</h2>

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid tribute to Neutra, calling him "a hero of the armoured corps" and vowed, "we will not rest" until his body is brought back for burial in Israel.&nbsp;

The conflict in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, with an unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel. The assault resulted in the deaths of 1,208 people, primarily civilians. The militants also seized 251 hostages during the operation, some of whom were already deceased. The Israeli military reports that 97 individuals remain in captivity, including 35 it says are dead. &nbsp;

Israel's retaliatory campaign in Gaza has, so far, claimed 44,429 lives, according to figures from the Gaza's health ministry.

(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&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos. 
&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden expressed deep sorrow and anger on Monday (Dec 2) following Israel's confirmation that the body of a soldier killed during Hamas's October 7 attack last year — an American citizen — was held by Hamas in Gaza.

US President Joe Biden expressed deep sorrow and anger on Monday (Dec 2) following Israel's confirmation that the body of a soldier killed during Hamas's October 7 attack last year — an American citizen — was held by Hamas in Gaza. Devastated and outraged In a statement, Biden said he was "devastated and outraged" to hear that Hamas has "apparently been holding" Israeli tank commander Captain Omer Maxim Neutra's body "since they killed him during their brutal terrorist attack on October 7". Also read | US-Israeli hostage Cpt Omer Neutra killed on Oct 7, body held by Hamas in Gaza, confirms IDF "To all the families of those still held hostage: We see you. We are with you. And I will not stop working to bring your loved ones back home where they belong," vowed Biden. Taking to X, Biden wrote: "Jill and I are devastated and outraged to learn of the death of Omer Neutra, an American citizen". Jill and I are devastated and outraged to learn of the death of Omer Neutra, an American citizen, whose body Hamas has held since they killed him on October 7. We join Omer’s parents, brother, and family in grieving this tragic loss, and pray to find strength and resilience. — President Biden (@POTUS) December 2, 2024 × Omer Maxim Neutra As per US President Biden's statement, 21-year-old Neutra was among the first responders to "Hamas's campaign of cruelty". The Israeli Army, in a statement on Monday, claimed that Neutra's body was still in the custody of the Palestinian militant group in Gaza. Also read | UK pledges $24 million in Gaza aid, urges Israel to 'ensure unimpeded access' The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, an advocacy group for the relatives of those taken hostage during the attack, said Neutra was born in the United States before immigrating to Israel, where he joined the military. "This morning, his family was informed of his death on October 7th," it said in a statement, as quoted by AFP. Netanyahu vows 'we will not rest' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid tribute to Neutra, calling him "a hero of the armoured corps" and vowed, "we will not rest" until his body is brought back for burial in Israel. The conflict in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, with an unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel. The assault resulted in the deaths of 1,208 people, primarily civilians. The militants also seized 251 hostages during the operation, some of whom were already deceased. The Israeli military reports that 97 individuals remain in captivity, including 35 it says are dead. Israel's retaliatory campaign in Gaza has, so far, claimed 44,429 lives, according to figures from the Gaza's health ministry. (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-Hamas war: Biden slams 'Hamas' campaign of cruelty,' expresses outrage over US-Israeli soldier's death

Former Israeli defence minister Moshe Yaalon accused the Benjamin Netanyahu government of ethnic cleansing in the northern Gaza Strip, the news agency Reuters reported late Sunday (Dec.

Former Israeli defence minister Moshe Yaalon accused the Benjamin Netanyahu government of ethnic cleansing in the northern Gaza Strip, the news agency Reuters reported late Sunday (Dec. 1), citing local media. Yaalon had served as the defence minister under Prime Minister Netanyahu from 2013 to 2016. He was also the former chief of army staff. Speaking to Israeli broadcaster Kan, Yaalon said on Sunday that hardliners in Netanyahu's cabinet were looking to chase Palestinians from northern Gaza and wanted to re-establish Jewish settlements there. '...war crimes are being committed' Yaalon told Ken, "I am compelled to warn about what is happening there and is being concealed from us." "At the end of the day, war crimes are being committed," the former defence minister added. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: White House not there yet on ceasefire, hostage deal, says US NSA In a separate interview with Democrat TV, Yaalon warned on Saturday (November 30) that Israel was at a crossroads with the government looking "to conquer, to annexe, to carry out ethnic cleansing." "What is going on there? There is no Beit Lahiya, no Beit Hanoun, they are operating now in Jabaliya and basically cleaning the area of Arabs," he said, referring to the Palestinian neighbourhoods north of Gaza City. He added that hardliners wanted to establish Jewish settlement there, 19 years after Israel withdrew from the territory—a disengagement Yaalon had opposed at the time. Israeli govt criticises Yaalon's remarks Yaalon's remarks were criticised by the Netanyahu government. Addressing a press conference, Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said, "Everything Israel does is in accordance with international law and it is a pity that former minister Yaalon does not realise the damage that he has done and retract his remarks." Also watch | Gulf leaders demand immediate ceasefire in Gaza × Meanwhile, Netanyahu's Likud party accused Yaalon of spreading "slanderous lies." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Ex-minister accuses Israel of ethnic cleansing in northern Gaza Strip

Britain has announced an additional £19 million ($24 mn) in humanitarian support for Gaza. International Development Minister Anneliese Dodds revealed the funding on Monday (Dec 2).

While leaving for a pivotal aid conference in Cairo aimed at tackling the spiralling humanitarian disaster, Dodds called for Israel to give greater access.

<h2>Gaza humanitarian crisis</h2>

Calling on Israel to "immediately act to ensure unimpeded aid access to Gaza," Dodd said, "Gazans are in desperate need of food, and shelter with the onset of winter".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-aid-crisis-deepens-un-suspends-shipments-via-key-gaza-israel-crossing-780696">Gaza aid crisis deepens: UN suspends shipments via key Gaza-Israel crossing after loot by armed gangs</a>

She emphasised the importance of collective action at the Cairo summit, describing it as "an opportunity to get leading voices in one room and put forward real-world solutions to the humanitarian crisis".

<h2>Aid allocation</h2>

The newly pledged funds, as per AFP, will be distributed among key UN agencies, with 12 million pounds (over $15 million) earmarked for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the World Food Programme (WFP). The remaining seven million pounds (over $8.8 million) will support the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).

This comes as aid organisations continue to accuse Israel of preventing trucks from entering Gaza in large numbers, allowing only a fraction of necessary supplies into Gaza.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-white-house-not-there-yet-on-ceasefire-hostage-deal-says-us-nsa-780691">Israel-Hamas war: White House not there yet on ceasefire, hostage deal, says US NSA</a>

On Sunday (Dec 1) UNRWA announced on Sunday that it had halted aid deliveries through the Kerem Shalom crossing because of safety concerns, labelling conditions "impossible." Aid groups have accused Israel of obstructing adequate relief efforts.&nbsp;

With this new contribution, the UK’s total humanitarian aid for the Palestinian territories in 2023 reaches £99 million.

<h2>Devastating toll in Gaza</h2>

Dodds's visit to Cairo marks the start of a three-day regional mission, which will include stops in Israel and the Palestinian territories. Her trip comes against the backdrop of a devastating humanitarian crisis in the wake of Gaza war. &nbsp;

Israel's retaliatory attacks to Hamas' October 7 attack have killed at least 44,429 people in Gaza, according to statistics from the Hamas-run health ministry. The Palestinian militant group's October attack resulted in 1,207 deaths, most of them civilians, according to Israeli figures. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. 
&nbsp;

Britain has announced an additional £19 million ($24 mn) in humanitarian support for Gaza. International Development Minister Anneliese Dodds revealed the funding on Monday (Dec 2).

Britain has announced an additional £19 million ($24 mn) in humanitarian support for Gaza. International Development Minister Anneliese Dodds revealed the funding on Monday (Dec 2). While leaving for a pivotal aid conference in Cairo aimed at tackling the spiralling humanitarian disaster, Dodds called for Israel to give greater access. Gaza humanitarian crisis Calling on Israel to "immediately act to ensure unimpeded aid access to Gaza," Dodd said, "Gazans are in desperate need of food, and shelter with the onset of winter". Also read | Gaza aid crisis deepens: UN suspends shipments via key Gaza-Israel crossing after loot by armed gangs She emphasised the importance of collective action at the Cairo summit, describing it as "an opportunity to get leading voices in one room and put forward real-world solutions to the humanitarian crisis". Aid allocation The newly pledged funds, as per AFP, will be distributed among key UN agencies, with 12 million pounds (over $15 million) earmarked for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the World Food Programme (WFP). The remaining seven million pounds (over $8.8 million) will support the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). This comes as aid organisations continue to accuse Israel of preventing trucks from entering Gaza in large numbers, allowing only a fraction of necessary supplies into Gaza. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: White House not there yet on ceasefire, hostage deal, says US NSA On Sunday (Dec 1) UNRWA announced on Sunday that it had halted aid deliveries through the Kerem Shalom crossing because of safety concerns, labelling conditions "impossible." Aid groups have accused Israel of obstructing adequate relief efforts. With this new contribution, the UK’s total humanitarian aid for the Palestinian territories in 2023 reaches £99 million. Devastating toll in Gaza Dodds's visit to Cairo marks the start of a three-day regional mission, which will include stops in Israel and the Palestinian territories. Her trip comes against the backdrop of a devastating humanitarian crisis in the wake of Gaza war. Israel's retaliatory attacks to Hamas' October 7 attack have killed at least 44,429 people in Gaza, according to statistics from the Hamas-run health ministry. The Palestinian militant group's October attack resulted in 1,207 deaths, most of them civilians, according to Israeli figures. (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.

UK pledges $24 million in Gaza aid, urges Israel to 'ensure unimpeded access'

The Israel Defense Forces on Saturday (Nov 30) claimed they killed a militant who had allegedly taken part in the October 7 terror attack and worked with World Central Kitchen, an American charity group, in Gaza. The charity group also confirmed that one of the vehicles carrying their colleagues was targeted in the strike.

However, it was not immediately confirmed whether the killed person took part in the October 7 attacks or not. The IDF too didn’t provide any evidence linking the man to the attacks that triggered the Israel-Hamas war more than a year ago.

"We are heartbroken to share that a vehicle carrying World Central Kitchen colleagues was hit by an Israeli airstrike in Gaza," the US charity group said in a statement posted on X. "World Central Kitchen had no knowledge that any individual in the vehicle had alleged ties to the October 7th Hamas attack."

The group has halted all of its operations in Gaza, saying it had incomplete information and was urgently seeking more details. Apart from the suspected militant, two more charity workers were killed in the Israeli strike.

<h2>Hamas releases new hostage video</h2>

Meanwhile, Hamas’&nbsp;armed wing Saturday posted another video, showing a hostage held in Gaza since October&nbsp;7. Edan Alexander, an Israeli-American citizen, can be seen pleading with Israeli people to press the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to strike a ceasefire deal with Hamas and secure the release of hostages.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjL-peX04SKAxWNrVYBHWlxGHAQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-idf-chief-intends-to-step-down-once-october-7-probe-is-completed-780433" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-idf-chief-intends-to-step-down-once-october-7-probe-is-completed-780433&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjL-peX04SKAxWNrVYBHWlxGHAQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">Gaza war: IDF chief intends to step down once October 7 probe is completed</a>

The recording date of the video couldn’t be verified.

The Hostage Families Forum campaign group reacted to the video, saying it was proof that the hostages are still alive and are suffering greatly.

"The shocking video of Edan, an American-Israeli citizen, is definite proof that despite all the rumours – there are living hostages and they are suffering greatly,” said the group in a statement. "One year after the first and only deal, it's clear to everyone: returning the hostages is only possible through a deal," it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

The Israel Defense Forces on Saturday (Nov 30) claimed they killed a militant who had allegedly taken part in the October 7 terror attack and worked with World Central Kitchen, an American charity group, in Gaza.

The Israel Defense Forces on Saturday (Nov 30) claimed they killed a militant who had allegedly taken part in the October 7 terror attack and worked with World Central Kitchen, an American charity group, in Gaza. The charity group also confirmed that one of the vehicles carrying their colleagues was targeted in the strike. However, it was not immediately confirmed whether the killed person took part in the October 7 attacks or not. The IDF too didn’t provide any evidence linking the man to the attacks that triggered the Israel-Hamas war more than a year ago. "We are heartbroken to share that a vehicle carrying World Central Kitchen colleagues was hit by an Israeli airstrike in Gaza," the US charity group said in a statement posted on X. "World Central Kitchen had no knowledge that any individual in the vehicle had alleged ties to the October 7th Hamas attack." The group has halted all of its operations in Gaza, saying it had incomplete information and was urgently seeking more details. Apart from the suspected militant, two more charity workers were killed in the Israeli strike. Hamas releases new hostage video Meanwhile, Hamas’ armed wing Saturday posted another video, showing a hostage held in Gaza since October 7. Edan Alexander, an Israeli-American citizen, can be seen pleading with Israeli people to press the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to strike a ceasefire deal with Hamas and secure the release of hostages. Also read: Gaza war: IDF chief intends to step down once October 7 probe is completed The recording date of the video couldn’t be verified. The Hostage Families Forum campaign group reacted to the video, saying it was proof that the hostages are still alive and are suffering greatly. "The shocking video of Edan, an American-Israeli citizen, is definite proof that despite all the rumours – there are living hostages and they are suffering greatly,” said the group in a statement. "One year after the first and only deal, it's clear to everyone: returning the hostages is only possible through a deal," it added. (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 says killed a Gaza militant who took part in Oct 7 attacks, Hamas ally releases new hostage video

United States (US) National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that the White House was working on a ceasefire and hostage deal in the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip but "was not there yet.

United States (US) National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that the White House was working on a ceasefire and hostage deal in the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip but "was not there yet." "We are working actively to try to make it happen. We are engaged deeply with the key players in the region, and there is activity even today," NSA Sullivan told NBC. "There will be further conversations and consultations, and our hope is that we can generate a ceasefire and hostage deal, but we're not there yet," he added. The Gaza war and failed ceasefire talks The war in Gaza began last year after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people. Israel struck back hard at the Gaza Strip, killing more than 44,000 people, mostly civilians, as per Hamas' claims. Also read | Gaza war: IDF chief intends to step down once October 7 probe is completed During its attack on Israel, Hamas also took 251 hostages, with 97 still being held in Gaza, including 34 who have been confirmed to be dead, a report by the news agency AFP said. The United States, Qatar, and Egypt have led multiple failed efforts since the start of the year to reach a new ceasefire and hostage release. The only ceasefire so far, in November last year, saw the release of about 100 hostages by Hamas and its allies in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. 'Progress could be made on hostage release deal...' US NSA Sullivan's remarks came as ceasefire talks began in Cairo on Saturday. Earlier on Sunday, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said there were "indications" progress could be made on a deal securing the release of hostages by Hamas in Gaza. Also watch | Gaza war: Thousands protest in Tel Aviv demanding release of hostages × "There are signs we may see a greater degree of flexibility from Hamas as a result of circumstances that have developed...," Foreign Minister Saar said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: White House not there yet on ceasefire, hostage deal, says US NSA

Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, the chief of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), announced on Friday (Nov 29) that he intends to resign once the military completes its investigation into the unprecedented attack by Hamas (on Israel) on October 7, 2023.

Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, the chief of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), announced on Friday (Nov 29) that he intends to resign once the military completes its investigation into the unprecedented attack by Hamas (on Israel) on October 7, 2023. Hamas' attack triggered the war between the Palestinian militant group and Israel in the Gaza Strip. According to a report by The Times of Israel, Lt. Gen. Halevi wrote a missive to troops where he said, "At the end of the investigations, we will also make personal decisions and commanders will exercise responsibility, from me down. I have no intention of passing over personal decisions when the picture becomes clearer to us." Halevi defends appointments in the military The Times of Israel report said that the missive largely focused on Halevi defending his decision to make senior appointments in the military, with some arguing that he should not be making such choices as he failed in his role concerning the October 7 onslaught. Also read | Israel says IDF to remain in Gaza ‘for years’, Hamas ‘drops’ major truce condition “Appointing officers to positions is not a privilege, but a command and operational duty. The IDF cannot afford to freeze,” Halevi said. He became the IDF chief in early 2023 and oversaw the Israeli military before and during Hamas' October 7 attack. Hamas to hold ceasefire talks in Cairo The news of Halevi possibly resigning came as a delegation of Hamas was set to hold ceasefire talks in Cairo later on Saturday. "A Hamas delegation will go to Cairo tomorrow for several meetings with Egyptian officials to discuss ideas for a ceasefire and a prisoner accord in the Gaza Strip," a Hamas official told the news agency AFP on Friday. The United States, Qatar and Egypt have led multiple failed efforts since the start of the year to reach a new ceasefire and hostage release. The only ceasefire so far, in November last year, saw the release of about 100 hostages by Hamas and its allies in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: IDF chief intends to step down once October 7 probe is completed

An independent inquiry on the Oct 7 massacre in Israel carried out by Hamas has noted that the attack was made possible by&nbsp;“arrogant” groupthink led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The commission was founded by survivors and relatives of Israelis who were killed and kidnapped on the tragic day.

The 70-page report and 10-page “executive briefing” by the Civil Commission of Inquiry of the Oct 7 Disaster, talks of failures at every step of the administration, from the very top and reaching deep into the security establishment.

The report blames Netanyahu and top military commanders for exposing Israel to the invasion through years of faulty decisions. It states that voices critical of the government were stifled and it wrongly believed that money could keep Hamas quiet.&nbsp;

“Netanyahu is responsible for undermining all decision-making hubs,” the report said.&nbsp;

It questions the policy of giving funds to Hamas which helped the terrorist group create a strong base in Hamas in the decade before the attack.

“Arrogance is what led, according to various testimonies, to the fact that the IDF was not prepared for the massive invasion of Hamas terrorists into Israel, even though their plan was known," the report reads.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hezbollah-ceasefire-in-lebanon-takes-effect-following-11th-hour-strikes-on-central-beirut-779496">Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire in Lebanon takes effect following 11th-hour strikes on central Beirut</a>

“Arrogance and inherent blindness also led the political echelon to continue strengthening Hamas by transferring funds and avoiding taking offensive initiatives in the face of threats," it added.

<h2>Authorities 'idealized' reality</h2>

It further states that the officials ignored and "idealized reality" and tried to "buy security [and] quiet with money, ignoring the breaking of the rules by the enemy, and avoiding consultation with relevant parties such as the then-head of the Mossad".

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The report was based on interviews and public hearings conducted over three months and included approximately 120 testimonies. Those who talked to the commission included former prime ministers, senior politicians, security officials, those who witnessed and survived on the fateful day, heads of volunteer organisations, and others.

The group examined how the government and the security forces worked in the years and even days prior to the attack. It also looked into the action taken by the Israel Defence Forces and the police on the day of the attack and how the adminstration functioned in the time following the attack.

The report states that arrogance deteriorated the relationship between the political and military leadership, which impacted decision-making in the Israeli government. "Arrogance and unwillingness to listen" added to the woes after the attack. It delayed the "response to besieged residents and later to evacuees from the South and North."

"These failures continued for weeks after October 7," the committee wrote.

Netanyahu’s office and the Israeli military have not commented on the report.

An independent inquiry on the Oct 7 massacre in Israel carried out by Hamas has noted that the attack was made possible by “arrogant” groupthink led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

An independent inquiry on the Oct 7 massacre in Israel carried out by Hamas has noted that the attack was made possible by “arrogant” groupthink led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The commission was founded by survivors and relatives of Israelis who were killed and kidnapped on the tragic day. The 70-page report and 10-page “executive briefing” by the Civil Commission of Inquiry of the Oct 7 Disaster, talks of failures at every step of the administration, from the very top and reaching deep into the security establishment. The report blames Netanyahu and top military commanders for exposing Israel to the invasion through years of faulty decisions. It states that voices critical of the government were stifled and it wrongly believed that money could keep Hamas quiet. “Netanyahu is responsible for undermining all decision-making hubs,” the report said. It questions the policy of giving funds to Hamas which helped the terrorist group create a strong base in Hamas in the decade before the attack. “Arrogance is what led, according to various testimonies, to the fact that the IDF was not prepared for the massive invasion of Hamas terrorists into Israel, even though their plan was known," the report reads. Also Read: Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire in Lebanon takes effect following 11th-hour strikes on central Beirut “Arrogance and inherent blindness also led the political echelon to continue strengthening Hamas by transferring funds and avoiding taking offensive initiatives in the face of threats," it added. Authorities 'idealized' reality It further states that the officials ignored and "idealized reality" and tried to "buy security [and] quiet with money, ignoring the breaking of the rules by the enemy, and avoiding consultation with relevant parties such as the then-head of the Mossad". × The report was based on interviews and public hearings conducted over three months and included approximately 120 testimonies. Those who talked to the commission included former prime ministers, senior politicians, security officials, those who witnessed and survived on the fateful day, heads of volunteer organisations, and others. The group examined how the government and the security forces worked in the years and even days prior to the attack. It also looked into the action taken by the Israel Defence Forces and the police on the day of the attack and how the adminstration functioned in the time following the attack. The report states that arrogance deteriorated the relationship between the political and military leadership, which impacted decision-making in the Israeli government. "Arrogance and unwillingness to listen" added to the woes after the attack. It delayed the "response to besieged residents and later to evacuees from the South and North." "These failures continued for weeks after October 7," the committee wrote. Netanyahu’s office and the Israeli military have not commented on the report.

Independent commission blames 'arrogant' Israeli leaders for Oct 7 massacre

Israel said on Sunday (Nov. 24) that Israeli-Moldovan rabbi Zvi Kogan was murdered in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), adding that he had been missing since Thursday.

Israel said on Sunday (Nov. 24) that Israeli-Moldovan rabbi Zvi Kogan was murdered in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), adding that he had been missing since Thursday. "The intelligence and security authorities in the United Arab Emirates have located the body of Zvi Kogan, who had been missing since Thursday, November 21," the prime minister's office (PMO) and the foreign ministry said in a joint statement. The statement said that Kogan's murder was a heinous act of anti-Semitic terrorism. On Monday, the UAE said that three people were arrested in connection with the killing. Kogan ran Kosher grocery store in Dubai A report by the news agency Associated Press on Sunday said that Kogan, 28, ran a Kosher grocery store named the Rimon Market in Dubai. He was an emissary of the Chabad Lubavitch movement, a prominent and highly observant branch of ultra-Orthodox Judaism based in Brooklyn’s Crown Heights neighbourhood in New York City (NYC). Also read | Shootout near Israeli embassy in Jordan: Govt says shooting was terror attack targeting security forces The movement said that the 28-year-old was last seen in Dubai. The report said that Rimon Market had been the target of online protests since the Israel-Hamas war and Israel's other conflicts in West Asia began. Earlier on Sunday, UAE state media acknowledged Kogan's disappearance but did not acknowledge that he held Israeli citizenship. Meanwhile, the Emirati Interior Ministry described Kogan as being “missing and out of contact.” “Specialized authorities immediately began search and investigation operations upon receiving the report,” the ministry added. Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the killing and thanked Emirati authorities for “their swift action.” 'Will do everything to ensure that justice is served' In the joint statement, the Israeli PMO and foreign ministry said that Israel would do everything in its power to ensure that justice was served and those responsible for Kogan's death were held responsible. The city of Dubai has seen Israelis flocking for commerce and tourism since the UAE and Israel forged diplomatic ties in the 2020 Abraham Accords. However, Israel's offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip and Hezbollah in Lebanon has stoked anger among Emiratis, Arab nationals, and others living in the UAE. Iran, which backs both Hamas and Hezbollah, has threatened to retaliate against Israel following a wave of strikes Israel carried out last month in response to a ballistic missile attack by Tehran. While the Israeli joint statement on Sunday did not mention Iran, Iranian intelligence services have carried out past kidnappings in the UAE. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel says Israeli-Moldovan Rabbi Zvi Kogan murdered in UAE; three people arrested

A man was shot dead and three police personnel were injured following gunfire early Sunday (Nov 24) near the Israeli embassy in Jordan's capital city of Amman. Citing state media, a report by the news agency AFP said that the Public Security Directorate dealt with an incident of gunfire at a patrol operating in the Rabiah area in Amman.

A man was shot dead and three police personnel were injured following gunfire early Sunday (Nov 24) near the Israeli embassy in Jordan's capital city of Amman. Citing state media, a report by the news agency AFP said that the Public Security Directorate dealt with an incident of gunfire at a patrol operating in the Rabiah area in Amman. The man opened gunfire on a patrol and was later surrounded by security forces. Man fires gunshots at security forces AFP reported that the man started firing gunshots at security forces, which in turn applied the rules of engagement, which resulted in the killing of the perpetrator. Also read | Gunman kills three Israeli civilians at West Bank-Jordan border, probe launched The three injured police personnel were receiving treatment. An investigation was launched into the incident. Police cordon off the area The Jordanian police had cordoned off the area near the embassy after gunshots were heard, the news agency Reuters reported citing two witnesses. The witnesses said that police and ambulances were rushed to the Rabiah area. The area is a flashpoint for frequent demonstrations against Israel. Jordan has witnessed some of the biggest peaceful rallies across the region as anti-Israel sentiment runs high over the war in Gaza. Many of Jordan’s 12 million citizens are of Palestinian origin. Latest updates from Gaza war In the latest updates from the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip, Hamas' armed wing Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades said that an Israeli woman taken hostage during the group's attack in October last year was killed in northern Gaza. Also watch | Gravitas: Gulf threat to abandon US if Israel attacks Iran × Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades spokesman Abu Obeida said contact had been restored with the woman's captors after a break of several weeks, and it was established that the hostage had been killed. The identity of the hostage was not yet known. Meanwhile, the Israeli military said that it could not confirm or refute the claim (made by Hamas). (With inputs from agencies)

Gunman killed, three cops injured following shooting near Israeli embassy in Jordan

The Jordanian government said on Sunday (Nov 24) that the shootout near the Israeli embassy in Amman was a terror attack that targeted the country's (Jordan) security forces.

The Jordanian government said on Sunday (Nov 24) that the shootout near the Israeli embassy in Amman was a terror attack that targeted the country's (Jordan) security forces. In a statement posted on X, the Jordanian communications ministry said, "Minister of State for Media Affairs and Government Spokesperson Dr Mohammad Al-Momani said that the shooting incident that took place today in the Rabieh area is a terrorist attack on the Public Security Forces that are doing their duty." Also read | Gunman killed, three cops injured following shooting near Israeli embassy in Jordan The ministry said that an investigation was launched to find out "all the details and connections and to take the necessary security and legal measures accordingly." 'Attack was carried out by...' Minister Dr Al-Momani pointed out that the attack that took place was carried out by people with drug and criminal records, and said these attacks were condemned by every honourable citizen. المساس بأمن الوطن والاعتداء على رجال الأمن سيقابل بحزم قال وزير الاتصال الحكومي الناطق الرسمي باسم الحكومة الدكتور محمد المومني إن حادثة إطلاق النار التي جرت اليوم في منطقة الرابية تعد اعتداء ارهابيا على قوات الأمن العام التي تقوم بواجبها. وأكد المومني أن استقرار الأردن وأمنه… pic.twitter.com/s5QXJMrKsI — وزارة الاتصال الحكومي (@MoGC_JO) November 24, 2024 × "Jordan's stability and security are a red line and that no one will be allowed to tamper with it, indicating that tampering with the nation's security and assaulting public security personnel will be met with uncompromising firmness and the force of the law, and any criminal who attempts to do so will receive just retribution," the minister stressed. Gunman killed, three cops injured Earlier in the day, the Public Security Directorate dealt with an incident of gunfire at a patrol operating in the Rabiah area in Amman. The man opened gunfire on a patrol and was later surrounded by security forces. A report by the news agency AFP said the man started firing gunshots at security forces, which in turn applied the rules of engagement, which resulted in the killing of the perpetrator. Also watch | Gravitas: Gulf threat to abandon US if Israel attacks Iran × The three injured police personnel were receiving treatment. A report by the news agency Reuters, meanwhile, said that Jordanian police had cordoned off the area near the embassy after gunshots were heard. The Rabiah area is a flashpoint for frequent demonstrations against Israel. Jordan has witnessed some of the biggest peaceful rallies across the region as anti-Israel sentiment runs high over the war in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

Shootout near Israeli embassy in Jordan: Govt says shooting was terror attack targeting security forces