<p>Republicans in the US Senate, on Wednesday (Feb 7) rejected the $118 billion bipartisan bill which combined an overhaul of the country’s immigration policy and security measures at its border with Mexico with a foreign aid package for Ukraine and Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>The bill failed to garner the minimum 60 votes needed for it to move forward in the US Senate and was defeated by a vote of 49-50, largely along party lines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as the Senate Republicans were expected to block the bill amid opposition and pressure from former US President Donald Trump and members of their own party in the House of Representatives.</p>

<p>The vote took place on the $118 billion bill, which includes aid for both Israel and Ukraine but is also tied to strict US immigration curbs demanded by the Republicans.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/show-some-spine-biden-calls-out-republicans-over-ukraine-aid-bill-blames-trump-687666">‘Show some spine’: Biden calls out Republicans over Ukraine aid bill, blames Trump</a></strong></p>

<p>However, many Republicans promptly rejected the package when it was released on Sunday (Feb 4) even though it included some of their demands.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rejection reportedly came after Trump ramped up pressure on Republican lawmakers to reject any compromise on the package as he campaigns to defeat Joe Biden in the upcoming presidential election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Some have been very clear with me they have political differences with the bill,” said Republican Senator James Lankford, one of the negotiators of the bill. He added, “They say it’s the wrong time to solve the problem, let the presidential election solve the problem.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, an independent senator from the US state of Arizona, Kyrsten Sinema, one of the authors of the deal, said she was baffled by the sudden shift. She told the chamber that the Republican abandonment of efforts to pass immigration reform was “shameful”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What now?</strong></h2>

<p>The Senate is now looking to vote on a $96 billion package that excludes the immigration provisions but keeps foreign aid intact.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-stands-in-way-of-118bn-immigration-ukraine-and-israel-package-deal-passed-by-senate-687347">Trump stands in way of $118bn immigration, Ukraine and Israel package deal, passed by Senate</a></strong></p>

<p>This comes after the Senate Majority Leader and Democrat Chuck Schumer said that they would hold another procedural vote later on Wednesday on the watered-down version of the foreign aid package, which includes funds for Ukraine and Israel but not for border security.</p>

<p>The $95.34 billion spending bill includes security assistance for Ukraine ($60.06 billion) and Israel ($14.1 billion), international humanitarian aid ($9.15 billion) and resources to help allies in the Indo-Pacific ($4.83 billion), including Taiwan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bill would also allocate $2.44 billion to the Pentagon for operations around the Red Sea, where the US forces have sought to stop attacks on shipping by the Iran-backed Yemen-based Houthi rebels.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Republicans in the US Senate, on Wednesday (Feb 7) rejected the $118 billion bipartisan bill which combined an overhaul of the country’s immigration policy and security measures at its border with Mexico with a foreign aid package for Ukraine and Israel.

Republicans in the US Senate, on Wednesday (Feb 7) rejected the $118 billion bipartisan bill which combined an overhaul of the country’s immigration policy and security measures at its border with Mexico with a foreign aid package for Ukraine and Israel. What happened? The bill failed to garner the minimum 60 votes needed for it to move forward in the US Senate and was defeated by a vote of 49-50, largely along party lines. This comes as the Senate Republicans were expected to block the bill amid opposition and pressure from former US President Donald Trump and members of their own party in the House of Representatives. The vote took place on the $118 billion bill, which includes aid for both Israel and Ukraine but is also tied to strict US immigration curbs demanded by the Republicans. ALSO READ | ‘Show some spine’: Biden calls out Republicans over Ukraine aid bill, blames Trump However, many Republicans promptly rejected the package when it was released on Sunday (Feb 4) even though it included some of their demands. The rejection reportedly came after Trump ramped up pressure on Republican lawmakers to reject any compromise on the package as he campaigns to defeat Joe Biden in the upcoming presidential election. “Some have been very clear with me they have political differences with the bill,” said Republican Senator James Lankford, one of the negotiators of the bill. He added, “They say it’s the wrong time to solve the problem, let the presidential election solve the problem.” Meanwhile, an independent senator from the US state of Arizona, Kyrsten Sinema, one of the authors of the deal, said she was baffled by the sudden shift. She told the chamber that the Republican abandonment of efforts to pass immigration reform was “shameful”. What now? The Senate is now looking to vote on a $96 billion package that excludes the immigration provisions but keeps foreign aid intact. ALSO READ | Trump stands in way of $118bn immigration, Ukraine and Israel package deal, passed by Senate This comes after the Senate Majority Leader and Democrat Chuck Schumer said that they would hold another procedural vote later on Wednesday on the watered-down version of the foreign aid package, which includes funds for Ukraine and Israel but not for border security. The $95.34 billion spending bill includes security assistance for Ukraine ($60.06 billion) and Israel ($14.1 billion), international humanitarian aid ($9.15 billion) and resources to help allies in the Indo-Pacific ($4.83 billion), including Taiwan. The bill would also allocate $2.44 billion to the Pentagon for operations around the Red Sea, where the US forces have sought to stop attacks on shipping by the Iran-backed Yemen-based Houthi rebels. (With inputs from agencies)

Republicans in US Senate block Bipartisan bill on immigration, aid for Israel and Ukraine

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<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Feb 7) ordered troops to prepare to enter the Gaza Strip's Rafah after rejecting Hamas' response to a ceasefire proposal in the besieged Palestinian territory. In televised remarks, Prime Minister Netanyahu said he ordered troops to prepare to operate in Rafah and that total victory over Hamas was just months away.</p>

<p>Reacting to the ceasefire proposal, Netanyahu said, "Giving in to the bizarre demands of Hamas that we have just heard will... only invite another massacre."</p>

<p>US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, who is on his fifth tour to the Middle East, met the Israeli PM and said that Hamas' counter-proposal (of a ceasefire) at least offered an opportunity to pursue negotiations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-gets-ridiculed-as-he-struggles-to-recall-hamas-name-during-speech-688065">Joe Biden gets ridiculed online after struggling to recall Hamas' name during speech</a></strong></p>

<p>"While there are some clear non-starters in Hamas's response, we do think it creates space for agreement to be reached, and we will work at that relentlessly until we get there," Blinken told reporters in Tel Aviv. He stopped short of calling on Israel not to move into Rafah, but expressed concerns at Netanyahu's announcement by saying that any "military operation that Israel undertakes needs to put civilians first and foremost."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Mounting concerns in Rafah over military push</strong></h2>

<p>A report by the news agency AFP on Thursday said that concerns were mounting in Rafah over the upcoming military push in the city by Israel. Hundreds of Palestinians have sought refuge in the city since the conflict began on Oct 7 last year. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, meanwhile, warned that a military push into the city "would exponentially increase what is already a humanitarian nightmare."</p>

<p>Concerns were also mounting for displaced Palestinian civilians thronging Rafah. Till now, more than half of Gaza's 2.4 million population has sought safety in the city.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Antony Blinken discusses Hamas' truce deal with Israeli PM Netanyahu</strong></p>

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<p>In a statement, UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths said, "Their living conditions are abysmal -- they lack the basic necessities to survive, stalked by hunger, disease and death."</p>

<p>"As the war encroaches further into Rafah, I am extremely concerned about the safety and well-being of families which have endured the unthinkable in search of safety," Griffiths added.</p>

<h2><strong>Death toll in Gaza over 27,700</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the health ministry in Gaza said that the death toll has climbed to 27,708 since the conflict began. The latest toll includes 123 deaths over the past 24 hours, the ministry said, adding, a total of 67,147 people have been wounded.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Feb 7) ordered troops to prepare to enter the Gaza Strip's Rafah after rejecting Hamas' response to a ceasefire proposal in the besieged Palestinian territory.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Feb 7) ordered troops to prepare to enter the Gaza Strip's Rafah after rejecting Hamas' response to a ceasefire proposal in the besieged Palestinian territory. In televised remarks, Prime Minister Netanyahu said he ordered troops to prepare to operate in Rafah and that total victory over Hamas was just months away. Reacting to the ceasefire proposal, Netanyahu said, "Giving in to the bizarre demands of Hamas that we have just heard will... only invite another massacre." US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, who is on his fifth tour to the Middle East, met the Israeli PM and said that Hamas' counter-proposal (of a ceasefire) at least offered an opportunity to pursue negotiations. Also read | Joe Biden gets ridiculed online after struggling to recall Hamas' name during speech "While there are some clear non-starters in Hamas's response, we do think it creates space for agreement to be reached, and we will work at that relentlessly until we get there," Blinken told reporters in Tel Aviv. He stopped short of calling on Israel not to move into Rafah, but expressed concerns at Netanyahu's announcement by saying that any "military operation that Israel undertakes needs to put civilians first and foremost." Mounting concerns in Rafah over military push A report by the news agency AFP on Thursday said that concerns were mounting in Rafah over the upcoming military push in the city by Israel. Hundreds of Palestinians have sought refuge in the city since the conflict began on Oct 7 last year. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, meanwhile, warned that a military push into the city "would exponentially increase what is already a humanitarian nightmare." Concerns were also mounting for displaced Palestinian civilians thronging Rafah. Till now, more than half of Gaza's 2.4 million population has sought safety in the city. Also watch | Antony Blinken discusses Hamas' truce deal with Israeli PM Netanyahu × In a statement, UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths said, "Their living conditions are abysmal -- they lack the basic necessities to survive, stalked by hunger, disease and death." "As the war encroaches further into Rafah, I am extremely concerned about the safety and well-being of families which have endured the unthinkable in search of safety," Griffiths added. Death toll in Gaza over 27,700 Meanwhile, the health ministry in Gaza said that the death toll has climbed to 27,708 since the conflict began. The latest toll includes 123 deaths over the past 24 hours, the ministry said, adding, a total of 67,147 people have been wounded. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu orders troops to prepare to enter Rafah

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Wednesday (Feb 7) said that the country’s total victory in Gaza is within reach and rejected Hamas’ latest offer for a ceasefire to ensure the return of hostages still held in the Palestinian enclave. Meanwhile,&nbsp;US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is currently in Israel amid his 5th visit to the Middle East since the beginning of the war, called on Israel&nbsp;to prioritise civilians in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Victory is within reach’</strong></h2>

<p>“We are on the way to complete victory. The victory is within reach,” said Netanyahu, during a press conference, adding that the war will be won in a “matter of months” not years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We will continue until the end,” said the Israeli PM in his remarks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | Will Netanyahu agree to Hamas' proposal?</strong></p>

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<p>“There is no other solution besides absolute victory.” He also said surrendering to Hamas’ “delusional demands” would spell disaster and only “invite an additional slaughter”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The day after is the day after Hamas. All of Hamas,” said Netanyahu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas called for a ceasefire, the end of the Israeli-Egyptian blockade on Gaza, and the release of Palestinian prisoners, on Tuesday (Feb 6) in response to a recent United States-backed proposal to free hostages in return for pausing the Gaza war with Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a draft document of Hamas’ counter proposal seen by Reuters, the Palestinian militant group envisions three phases of ceasefire lasting 45 days each for four-and-a-half months, which would allow them to exchange remaining Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the operation</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking about Israel’s ongoing ground operation in Gaza, Netanyahu said, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are working systematically and will achieve all the objectives of the war and will act “wherever and at any time that is necessary” in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-says-no-ties-with-israel-until-palestinian-state-is-recognised-687938">Saudi Arabia says no ties with Israel until Palestinian state is 'recognised'</a></strong></p>

<p>The Israeli PM also touted the military’s accomplishments and called it “unprecedented”. Israel claims to have killed or injured 20,000 Hamas fighters and said that the IDF is working to systematically destroy the underground network of tunnels where Hamas is hiding.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli troops in Gaza have been ordered to “prepare to operate” in the city of Rafah, said Netanyahu, where more than one million Palestinians have sought refuge.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Hamas responds</strong></h2>

<p>Senior Hamas official, Sami Abu Zuhri called the Israeli PM’s statement “political bravado” which showed the Israeli leader’s intention to continue the conflict in the region, as per Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, another Hamas official, Osama Hamdan said a delegation of the militant group led by senior Hamas official Khalil Al-Hayya would travel to Cairo on Thursday (Feb 8) to pursue ceasefire talks with mediators Egypt and Qatar.</p>

<p>Hamdan, a senior Lebanon-based official of Hamas&nbsp;told a news conference in Beirut,&nbsp;said that&nbsp;Netanyahu's&nbsp;"insistence on continuing the aggression totally confirms that the goal of the aggression on Gaza is genocide against the Palestinian people"</p>

<h2><strong>Blinken’s another failed trip to Middle East?</strong></h2>

<p>Washington’s top diplomat is in the midst of his 5th trip to the region amid the ongoing war and met with leaders of Qatar and Egypt before talking to the Israeli PM.</p>

<p>During his meeting, Netanyahu said that he told Blinken that after Hamas is destroyed, Israel will “ensure that Gaza is demilitarized forever.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Washington's top diplomat said during his visit to Israel, he&nbsp;warned the Israeli PM&nbsp;and his government against actions and talk that raise tensions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In my discussion today with the prime minister and senior officials, I also raised our profound concerns about actions and rhetoric, including from government officials, that inflame tensions that undercut international support and place greater restraints on Israel's security," Blinken said during a press conference held after Netanyahu's.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He&nbsp;called on Israel to prioritise civilians in Gaza's Rafah but stopped short of urging against military operations in the packed Palestinian city.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-pm-receives-positive-response-from-hamas-on-hostage-deal-blinken-to-discuss-agreement-with-israel-687622">Qatar receives ‘positive’ response from Hamas on hostage deal; militant group calls for ‘permanent ceasefire’</a></strong></p>

<p>Blinken also met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Every visit from Blinken, instead of calming things down, it just makes things worse, we get more strikes, we get more bombing,” a mourner Mohammad Abundi told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>


Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Wednesday (Feb 7) said that the country’s total victory in Gaza is within reach and rejected Hamas’ latest offer for a ceasefire to ensure the return of hostages still held in the Palestinian enclave.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Wednesday (Feb 7) said that the country’s total victory in Gaza is within reach and rejected Hamas’ latest offer for a ceasefire to ensure the return of hostages still held in the Palestinian enclave. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is currently in Israel amid his 5th visit to the Middle East since the beginning of the war, called on Israel to prioritise civilians in Gaza. ‘Victory is within reach’ “We are on the way to complete victory. The victory is within reach,” said Netanyahu, during a press conference, adding that the war will be won in a “matter of months” not years. “We will continue until the end,” said the Israeli PM in his remarks. WATCH | Gravitas | Will Netanyahu agree to Hamas' proposal? “There is no other solution besides absolute victory.” He also said surrendering to Hamas’ “delusional demands” would spell disaster and only “invite an additional slaughter”. “The day after is the day after Hamas. All of Hamas,” said Netanyahu. Hamas called for a ceasefire, the end of the Israeli-Egyptian blockade on Gaza, and the release of Palestinian prisoners, on Tuesday (Feb 6) in response to a recent United States-backed proposal to free hostages in return for pausing the Gaza war with Israel. According to a draft document of Hamas’ counter proposal seen by Reuters, the Palestinian militant group envisions three phases of ceasefire lasting 45 days each for four-and-a-half months, which would allow them to exchange remaining Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners. About the operation Speaking about Israel’s ongoing ground operation in Gaza, Netanyahu said, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are working systematically and will achieve all the objectives of the war and will act “wherever and at any time that is necessary” in the Palestinian enclave. ALSO READ | Saudi Arabia says no ties with Israel until Palestinian state is 'recognised' The Israeli PM also touted the military’s accomplishments and called it “unprecedented”. Israel claims to have killed or injured 20,000 Hamas fighters and said that the IDF is working to systematically destroy the underground network of tunnels where Hamas is hiding. The Israeli troops in Gaza have been ordered to “prepare to operate” in the city of Rafah, said Netanyahu, where more than one million Palestinians have sought refuge. Hamas responds Senior Hamas official, Sami Abu Zuhri called the Israeli PM’s statement “political bravado” which showed the Israeli leader’s intention to continue the conflict in the region, as per Reuters. Meanwhile, another Hamas official, Osama Hamdan said a delegation of the militant group led by senior Hamas official Khalil Al-Hayya would travel to Cairo on Thursday (Feb 8) to pursue ceasefire talks with mediators Egypt and Qatar. Hamdan, a senior Lebanon-based official of Hamas told a news conference in Beirut, said that Netanyahu's "insistence on continuing the aggression totally confirms that the goal of the aggression on Gaza is genocide against the Palestinian people" Blinken’s another failed trip to Middle East? Washington’s top diplomat is in the midst of his 5th trip to the region amid the ongoing war and met with leaders of Qatar and Egypt before talking to the Israeli PM. During his meeting, Netanyahu said that he told Blinken that after Hamas is destroyed, Israel will “ensure that Gaza is demilitarized forever.” Meanwhile, Washington's top diplomat said during his visit to Israel, he warned the Israeli PM and his government against actions and talk that raise tensions. "In my discussion today with the prime minister and senior officials, I also raised our profound concerns about actions and rhetoric, including from government officials, that inflame tensions that undercut international support and place greater restraints on Israel's security," Blinken said during a press conference held after Netanyahu's. He called on Israel to prioritise civilians in Gaza's Rafah but stopped short of urging against military operations in the packed Palestinian city. ALSO READ | Qatar receives ‘positive’ response from Hamas on hostage deal; militant group calls for ‘permanent ceasefire’ Blinken also met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah. “Every visit from Blinken, instead of calming things down, it just makes things worse, we get more strikes, we get more bombing,” a mourner Mohammad Abundi told Reuters. (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: Netanyahu rejects Hamas’ ceasefire deal, vows to fight until ‘total victory’

Have you heard about the Behshad? The Iran-flagged ship is accused of spying for Tehran. On paper, the Behshad is a commercial cargo ship, but this ship has mostly remained stationary, and guarded by Iran's Navy in the Red Sea since 2021. What's happening aboard the Behshad?

Gravitas | Behshad: Iran's mysterious 'spy ship' in the Red Sea

<p>Saudi Arabia told the United States that it can't have any relations with Israel in the absence of recognition of the Palestinian state, a report published by the news agency Reuters said on Wednesday (Feb 7).&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, a statement released by a ministry said that Riyadh repeated its request for permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to acknowledge a Palestinian state on the 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement read, "Kingdom has communicated its firm position to the US administration that there will be no diplomatic relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is recognised on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-war-hamas-proposes-a-four-month-gaza-truce-plan-says-report-687870">Israel war: Hamas proposes a four-month Gaza truce plan, says report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Riyadh reiterated "its call to the permanent members of the UN security council that have not yet recognised the Palestinian state, to expedite the recognition of the Palestinian state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital".&nbsp;</p>

<p>This statement comes after comments by White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, who told reporters on Tuesday that talks on Saudi-Israeli normalisation were "ongoing".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kirby also said that Washington had "received positive feedback from both sides that they're willing to continue to have those discussions".&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes amid, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned visit to Saudi Arabia this week. He also stopped in Egypt, Qatar and then Israel. US President Joe Biden's administration has been pressing Saudi Arabia to recognise Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-houthi-rebels-target-two-more-vessels-in-red-sea-including-one-carrying-coal-to-india-687759">Middle East crisis: Houthi rebels target two more vessels in Red Sea, including one carrying coal to India</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Blinken is aiming to finalise a truce deal to limit the escalation happening due to the Israel-Hamas war, which started after the October 7 attacks by Hamas militants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before the Israel-Hamas war, Riyadh had even set out criteria, including security guarantees from Washington and assistance in constructing a civilian nuclear programme. But all the progress appears to have gone in vain.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Israeli claims of UNRWA culpability remain unsubstantiated</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>October 7 attack</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Hamas militants launched an unprecedented cross-border attack on Israel, killing about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, claim Israeli authorities. Hamas had also taken some 250 people as hostages, some of them were later returned as part of a deal in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the attack, Israel responded with several strikes on Gaza and has continued its offensive since then killing at least 27,708 people as of February 6, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Saudi Arabia told the United States that it can't have any relations with Israel in the absence of recognition of the Palestinian state, a report published by the news agency Reuters said on Wednesday (Feb 7).

Saudi Arabia told the United States that it can't have any relations with Israel in the absence of recognition of the Palestinian state, a report published by the news agency Reuters said on Wednesday (Feb 7). As quoted, a statement released by a ministry said that Riyadh repeated its request for permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to acknowledge a Palestinian state on the 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The statement read, "Kingdom has communicated its firm position to the US administration that there will be no diplomatic relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is recognised on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital." Also read: Israel war: Hamas proposes a four-month Gaza truce plan, says report Riyadh reiterated "its call to the permanent members of the UN security council that have not yet recognised the Palestinian state, to expedite the recognition of the Palestinian state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital". This statement comes after comments by White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, who told reporters on Tuesday that talks on Saudi-Israeli normalisation were "ongoing". Kirby also said that Washington had "received positive feedback from both sides that they're willing to continue to have those discussions". This comes amid, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned visit to Saudi Arabia this week. He also stopped in Egypt, Qatar and then Israel. US President Joe Biden's administration has been pressing Saudi Arabia to recognise Israel. Also read: Middle East crisis: Houthi rebels target two more vessels in Red Sea, including one carrying coal to India Blinken is aiming to finalise a truce deal to limit the escalation happening due to the Israel-Hamas war, which started after the October 7 attacks by Hamas militants. Before the Israel-Hamas war, Riyadh had even set out criteria, including security guarantees from Washington and assistance in constructing a civilian nuclear programme. But all the progress appears to have gone in vain. Watch: Israeli claims of UNRWA culpability remain unsubstantiated × October 7 attack Hamas militants launched an unprecedented cross-border attack on Israel, killing about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, claim Israeli authorities. Hamas had also taken some 250 people as hostages, some of them were later returned as part of a deal in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. After the attack, Israel responded with several strikes on Gaza and has continued its offensive since then killing at least 27,708 people as of February 6, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia says no ties with Israel until Palestinian state is 'recognised'

Antony Blinken is on the verge of winding up his 5 day West Asia visit since the October 7th attacks. Hamas has replied to the ceasefire proposal formulated by the US Egypt and Qatar without disclosing the details of the response. Hamas said it responded in a positive spirit.

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas responds to ceasefire proposal, Blinken to discuss response with Israel

<p>Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani on Tuesday (Feb 6) said that they have received a “positive” response from the Palestinian militant group Hamas about the recent United States-backed proposal to free hostages in return for pausing the Gaza war with Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Qatar receives ‘positive’ response from Hamas</strong></h2>

<p>“We have received a reply from Hamas with regards to the general framework of the agreement with regards to hostages. The reply includes some comments, but in general it is positive,” said the Qatari PM during a press conference with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Doha.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Blinken meets MBS in Riyadh amid heightened West Asia tensions</strong></p>

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<p>Washington’s top diplomat, who is on his 5th visit to the Middle East since Hamas’ October 7 attack triggered the Israel war, said that he will discuss the hostage deal with Israel on Wednesday (Feb 7).&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There’s still a lot of work to be done. But we continue to believe that an agreement is possible and indeed essential, and we will continue to work relentlessly to achieve it,” said Blinken.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-32-israeli-hostages-in-hamas-custody-dead-claims-report-687612">Middle East crisis: 32 Israeli hostages in Hamas custody dead, claims report</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking about the new deal, Washington’s top diplomat said that it “offers the prospect of extended calm, hostages out, more assistance in,” adding that it “would clearly be beneficial to everyone, and I think that offers the best path forward.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Blinken met the main mediators in Gaza peace talks on Tuesday (Feb 6) during a lightning trip to four countries – Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, and Israel – in under 24 hours in a bid to secure a deal for an extended truce amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Hamas responds to new deal</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas, on Tuesday (Feb 6) confirmed that they have handed in their response on a truce deal aimed at halting the war with Israel calling for a permanent ceasefire, the end of the Israeli-Egyptian blockade on Gaza, and the release of Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-kicks-off-middle-east-tour-meets-saudi-crown-prince-amid-rise-in-tensions-687303">Blinken kicks off Middle East visit, meets Saudi crown prince amid rise in tensions</a></strong></p>

<p>“A short while ago, the Hamas movement delivered its response to the framework agreement to the brothers in Qatar and Egypt,” said the Palestinian militant group in a statement, referring to “a comprehensive and full ceasefire”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also said that it “engaged with the proposal in a positive spirit” and was demanding a “comprehensive and complete ceasefire, and ending the aggression against our people, and guaranteeing relief, shelter, reconstruction, lifting the blockade of the Gaza Strip, and completing a prisoner exchange.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani on Tuesday (Feb 6) said that they have received a “positive” response from the Palestinian militant group Hamas about the recent United States-backed proposal to free hostages in return for pausing the Gaza war with Israel.

Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani on Tuesday (Feb 6) said that they have received a “positive” response from the Palestinian militant group Hamas about the recent United States-backed proposal to free hostages in return for pausing the Gaza war with Israel. Qatar receives ‘positive’ response from Hamas “We have received a reply from Hamas with regards to the general framework of the agreement with regards to hostages. The reply includes some comments, but in general it is positive,” said the Qatari PM during a press conference with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Doha. WATCH | Blinken meets MBS in Riyadh amid heightened West Asia tensions Washington’s top diplomat, who is on his 5th visit to the Middle East since Hamas’ October 7 attack triggered the Israel war, said that he will discuss the hostage deal with Israel on Wednesday (Feb 7). “There’s still a lot of work to be done. But we continue to believe that an agreement is possible and indeed essential, and we will continue to work relentlessly to achieve it,” said Blinken. ALSO READ | Middle East crisis: 32 Israeli hostages in Hamas custody dead, claims report Speaking about the new deal, Washington’s top diplomat said that it “offers the prospect of extended calm, hostages out, more assistance in,” adding that it “would clearly be beneficial to everyone, and I think that offers the best path forward.” Blinken met the main mediators in Gaza peace talks on Tuesday (Feb 6) during a lightning trip to four countries – Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, and Israel – in under 24 hours in a bid to secure a deal for an extended truce amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. Hamas responds to new deal Hamas, on Tuesday (Feb 6) confirmed that they have handed in their response on a truce deal aimed at halting the war with Israel calling for a permanent ceasefire, the end of the Israeli-Egyptian blockade on Gaza, and the release of Palestinian prisoners. ALSO READ | Blinken kicks off Middle East visit, meets Saudi crown prince amid rise in tensions “A short while ago, the Hamas movement delivered its response to the framework agreement to the brothers in Qatar and Egypt,” said the Palestinian militant group in a statement, referring to “a comprehensive and full ceasefire”. It also said that it “engaged with the proposal in a positive spirit” and was demanding a “comprehensive and complete ceasefire, and ending the aggression against our people, and guaranteeing relief, shelter, reconstruction, lifting the blockade of the Gaza Strip, and completing a prisoner exchange.” (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.

Qatar receives ‘positive’ response from Hamas on hostage deal; militant group calls for ‘permanent ceasefire’

<p>Palestinian militant group Hamas has put forth a four-month (135 days) ceasefire plan aimed at ending the ongoing war between its fighters and Israel, reported Reuters. The plan reportedly proposes freeing of all hostages, withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip. Qatar and Egypt, who have been mediating between the warring sides had sent an offer last week. The response from Hamas is a counterproposal. There is a considerable diplomatic push from different parts of the world, including from the United States for an extended halt and even end to the ongoing war.</p>

<p>Israel did not immediately respond publicly to the fresh proposal and it has been maintaining that it will not be withdrawing its troops till Hamas is wiped out.</p>

<h2><strong>What is in Hamas' ceasefire proposal?</strong></h2>

<p>As reported by Reuters, Hamas has proposed a truce in three phases. Each phase would last for 45 days. the group has reportedly agreed to free remaining Israeli hostages but in exchange for Palestinian prisoners currently in Israel's custody.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Houthis launch multiple anti-ship ballistic missile attacks in Red Sea &amp; Gulf of Aden</strong></p>

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<p>Hamas says that after exchange of prisoners and hostages, reconstruction of Gaza would begin as Israeli forces withdraw from the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>It has been reported that although Hamas is not demanding guarantee of a permanent ceasefire, it has said that end of the war should be agreed upon before release of hostages.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-houthi-rebels-target-two-more-vessels-in-red-sea-including-one-carrying-coal-to-india-687759">Middle East crisis: Houthi rebels target two more vessels in Red Sea, including one carrying coal to India</a></strong></p>

<p>Hamas has proposed that the first phase will see both sides would release women, children under the age of 19 and elderly from its custody.</p>

<p>The second phase would see release of all remaining male hostages.</p>

<p>In third phase, bodies and remains will be exchanged.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-gaza-war-blinken-reviewing-hamas-over-the-top-response-to-proposed-gaza-deal-687674">Israel-Gaza war: Biden terms Hamas' response to proposed truce deal ‘a little over the top’</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>US deploys big guns</strong></h2>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is already in Israel after meeting Qatari and Egyptian mediators. The US President Joe Biden said on Monday (February 6) that Hamas' response to initial proposal made by Israel, US, Qatar and Egypt <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-gaza-war-blinken-reviewing-hamas-over-the-top-response-to-proposed-gaza-deal-687674">was a little 'over the top'</a>. He however did not specificaly refer to any particular proposal.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Palestinian militant group Hamas has put forth a four-month (135 days) ceasefire plan aimed at ending the ongoing war between its fighters and Israel, reported Reuters.

Palestinian militant group Hamas has put forth a four-month (135 days) ceasefire plan aimed at ending the ongoing war between its fighters and Israel, reported Reuters. The plan reportedly proposes freeing of all hostages, withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip. Qatar and Egypt, who have been mediating between the warring sides had sent an offer last week. The response from Hamas is a counterproposal. There is a considerable diplomatic push from different parts of the world, including from the United States for an extended halt and even end to the ongoing war. Israel did not immediately respond publicly to the fresh proposal and it has been maintaining that it will not be withdrawing its troops till Hamas is wiped out. What is in Hamas' ceasefire proposal? As reported by Reuters, Hamas has proposed a truce in three phases. Each phase would last for 45 days. the group has reportedly agreed to free remaining Israeli hostages but in exchange for Palestinian prisoners currently in Israel's custody. Watch | Houthis launch multiple anti-ship ballistic missile attacks in Red Sea & Gulf of Aden × Hamas says that after exchange of prisoners and hostages, reconstruction of Gaza would begin as Israeli forces withdraw from the Gaza Strip. It has been reported that although Hamas is not demanding guarantee of a permanent ceasefire, it has said that end of the war should be agreed upon before release of hostages. Also Read | Middle East crisis: Houthi rebels target two more vessels in Red Sea, including one carrying coal to India Hamas has proposed that the first phase will see both sides would release women, children under the age of 19 and elderly from its custody. The second phase would see release of all remaining male hostages. In third phase, bodies and remains will be exchanged. Also Read | Israel-Gaza war: Biden terms Hamas' response to proposed truce deal ‘a little over the top’ US deploys big guns US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is already in Israel after meeting Qatari and Egyptian mediators. The US President Joe Biden said on Monday (February 6) that Hamas' response to initial proposal made by Israel, US, Qatar and Egypt was a little 'over the top'. He however did not specificaly refer to any particular proposal. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel war: Hamas proposes a four-month Gaza truce plan, says report

Qatar's prime minister said on Tuesday Hamas had reacted positively to the latest plan for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.

Israel-Hamas war | US Secretary of state to discuss Hamas' response with Israel

<p>More than a fifth of the hostages being held by Hamas militants in Gaza are dead, claims an internal assessment conducted by the Israeli military.</p>

<p>As per the Israeli military report, 32 of the 136 hostages captured by Hamas and its allies during their Oct. 7 attack on Israel have died since the start of the ongoing war in the Middle East. The report curated by Israeli intelligence officers has been reviewed and reported on by the New York Times.</p>

<h2><strong>Families notified</strong></h2>

<p>As per the report citing four military officials speaking on the condition of anonymity, families of the deceased Hamas hostages have been informed after the deaths were confirmed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-strikes-two-houthi-drones-in-yemen-in-self-defence-687383">Middle East crisis: US strikes two Houthi drones in Yemen in 'self-defence'</a></strong></p>

<p>The officials told NYT that at least 20 other hostages may also have been killed in detention. They said that the military was in the process of assessing the veracity as of now unconfirmed intelligence.</p>

<p>This figure, of 32 dead hostages, as per the report, is higher than any number previously disclosed by the Israeli authorities. In a comment to the publication, the Israeli military disclosed that most of the dead were killed on Oct 7 itself.</p>

<h2><strong>Worsening tensions</strong></h2>

<p>Tensions between Israel and Hamas are continuously on rise. This news is likely to worsen the situation. As per the report, it may cause a furore in Israel where debate over the government course of action to bring back the hostages has divided opinions.</p>

<p>Some, as per Reuters, have accused international organisations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government of not doing enough to ensure the hostages' return.</p>

<p>The Oct 7 attack claimed 1,200 lives. Around 250 people were taken to the Palestinian enclave as hostages. Of these, roughly half have been freed — most of them during a temporary truce in November of last year, when they were exchanged for 240 Palestinian prisoners and detainees held in Israeli jails.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/furious-biden-calls-netanyahu-bad-fuking-guy-as-middle-east-crisis-deepens-report-687236">Furious Biden called Netanyahu ‘bad fu*king guy’ as Middle East crisis deepens: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Since then, the issue of what price Israel should pay to get the more than 100 remaining hostages back, and how to balance that goal against its other stated war objective, to destroy Hamas, has become increasingly polarising.</p>

<p>Israel has vowed to annihilate Hamas in Gaza after the militant group's fighters rampaged through Israeli towns. The country's government has said that its military operations in Gaza will bring back the hostages.</p>

<p>However, families have increasingly been putting pressure on Netanyahu, with the leader's popularity falling to rock bottom over the war.</p>

<p>Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu told the families of hostages that a "real effort" was being made towards their return. However, he said that it was too early to say how such a move would play out.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


More than a fifth of the hostages being held by Hamas militants in Gaza are dead, claims an internal assessment conducted by the Israeli military. As per the Israeli military report, 32 of the 136 hostages captured by Hamas and its allies during their Oct.

More than a fifth of the hostages being held by Hamas militants in Gaza are dead, claims an internal assessment conducted by the Israeli military. As per the Israeli military report, 32 of the 136 hostages captured by Hamas and its allies during their Oct. 7 attack on Israel have died since the start of the ongoing war in the Middle East. The report curated by Israeli intelligence officers has been reviewed and reported on by the New York Times. Families notified As per the report citing four military officials speaking on the condition of anonymity, families of the deceased Hamas hostages have been informed after the deaths were confirmed. Also read | Middle East crisis: US strikes two Houthi drones in Yemen in 'self-defence' The officials told NYT that at least 20 other hostages may also have been killed in detention. They said that the military was in the process of assessing the veracity as of now unconfirmed intelligence. This figure, of 32 dead hostages, as per the report, is higher than any number previously disclosed by the Israeli authorities. In a comment to the publication, the Israeli military disclosed that most of the dead were killed on Oct 7 itself. Worsening tensions Tensions between Israel and Hamas are continuously on rise. This news is likely to worsen the situation. As per the report, it may cause a furore in Israel where debate over the government course of action to bring back the hostages has divided opinions. Some, as per Reuters, have accused international organisations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government of not doing enough to ensure the hostages' return. The Oct 7 attack claimed 1,200 lives. Around 250 people were taken to the Palestinian enclave as hostages. Of these, roughly half have been freed — most of them during a temporary truce in November of last year, when they were exchanged for 240 Palestinian prisoners and detainees held in Israeli jails. Also read | Furious Biden called Netanyahu ‘bad fu*king guy’ as Middle East crisis deepens: Report Since then, the issue of what price Israel should pay to get the more than 100 remaining hostages back, and how to balance that goal against its other stated war objective, to destroy Hamas, has become increasingly polarising. Israel has vowed to annihilate Hamas in Gaza after the militant group's fighters rampaged through Israeli towns. The country's government has said that its military operations in Gaza will bring back the hostages. However, families have increasingly been putting pressure on Netanyahu, with the leader's popularity falling to rock bottom over the war. Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu told the families of hostages that a "real effort" was being made towards their return. However, he said that it was too early to say how such a move would play out. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East crisis: 32 Israeli hostages in Hamas custody dead, claims report

Amidst fear of further escalation in West Asia, the US has stepped up its military action in the region, after an attack on its base in Jordan killed 3 troops. For the past three days, it has carried out retaliatory strikes on Iran-linked targets in the region. While Iran has warned that it will not hesitate it "will not hesitate" to respond in the event of US attacks on its territory.

US plans more retaliation while trying to avert wider war

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Saudi Arabia and met with the country’s de-facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, on Monday (Feb 5) at the start of his Middle East tour as the United States has sought a Saudi normalisation deal with Israel amid the ongoing war in Gaza.</p>

<h2><strong>Blinken meets Saudi crown prince</strong></h2>

<p>On his fifth trip to the Middle East since the Palestinian militant group Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza, Blinken met with the Saudi crown prince in Riyadh and is later expected to visit Israel, Israeli-occupied West Bank, Egypt and Qatar.</p>

<p>The meeting between Washington’s top diplomat and the Saudi leader lasted for about two hours, reported Reuters. However, Blinken did not respond to shouted questions from reporters about the meeting, only waving as he walked by.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-drone-strike-on-syrian-democratic-forces-kills-seven-in-syria-687239">Middle East Crisis: Drone strike on base housing US troops kills seven in Syria</a></strong></p>

<p>He later took to X and said that they discussed "efforts to increase urgent humanitarian aid and ensure it gets to those who need it in Gaza."</p>

<p>Blinken added, "We will continue to engage in diplomacy in the region to prevent the further spread of the conflict."</p>

<p>Ahead of the visit, Blinken stressed the need for “urgently addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza”. This comes as aid groups in the Palestinian enclave have repeatedly sounded the alarm over the devastating impact of the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington’s top diplomat is also expected to discuss a truce framework which has not been signed off on by either Hamas or Israel.</p>

<h2><strong>Rise in tensions in the Middle East</strong></h2>

<p>The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza is escalating and spreading to the rest of the region with Iranian-backed groups entering the fray and firing on American soldiers in Iraq and Syria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Yemen-based Houthis attacked shipping routes in the Red Sea which they say is in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the beginning of the war, there have been several attacks against American troops in the Middle East, including the drone strike last week in Jordan that killed three military personnel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US has been carrying out retaliatory strikes on Iran-backed militias across Syria, Iraq and Yemen.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/furious-biden-calls-netanyahu-bad-fuking-guy-as-middle-east-crisis-deepens-report-687236">Furious Biden called Netanyahu ‘bad fu*king guy’ as Middle East crisis deepens: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Washington’s top diplomat will nevertheless try to reinforce the message that US President Joe Biden’s administration neither seeks war with Iran nor wants the conflict to spread. So far, Tehran, despite its backing of several militia groups, has avoided any direct role in the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Blinken’s key priority during this visit would be to “deliver a message directly to countries in the region that the United States does not want to see the conflict escalated and will not escalate the conflict,” a senior US official told reporters, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s important to show up and say it on one-on-one,” the official added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt with the backing of the US about the possible release of more than 130 hostages in Gaza in return for a humanitarian pause, are underway.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>


US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Saudi Arabia and met with the country’s de-facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, on Monday (Feb 5) at the start of his Middle East tour as the United States has sought a Saudi normalisation deal with Israel amid the ongoing war in Gaza.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Saudi Arabia and met with the country’s de-facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, on Monday (Feb 5) at the start of his Middle East tour as the United States has sought a Saudi normalisation deal with Israel amid the ongoing war in Gaza. Blinken meets Saudi crown prince On his fifth trip to the Middle East since the Palestinian militant group Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza, Blinken met with the Saudi crown prince in Riyadh and is later expected to visit Israel, Israeli-occupied West Bank, Egypt and Qatar. The meeting between Washington’s top diplomat and the Saudi leader lasted for about two hours, reported Reuters. However, Blinken did not respond to shouted questions from reporters about the meeting, only waving as he walked by. ALSO READ | Middle East Crisis: Drone strike on base housing US troops kills seven in Syria He later took to X and said that they discussed "efforts to increase urgent humanitarian aid and ensure it gets to those who need it in Gaza." Blinken added, "We will continue to engage in diplomacy in the region to prevent the further spread of the conflict." Ahead of the visit, Blinken stressed the need for “urgently addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza”. This comes as aid groups in the Palestinian enclave have repeatedly sounded the alarm over the devastating impact of the war. Washington’s top diplomat is also expected to discuss a truce framework which has not been signed off on by either Hamas or Israel. Rise in tensions in the Middle East The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza is escalating and spreading to the rest of the region with Iranian-backed groups entering the fray and firing on American soldiers in Iraq and Syria. Meanwhile, Yemen-based Houthis attacked shipping routes in the Red Sea which they say is in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Since the beginning of the war, there have been several attacks against American troops in the Middle East, including the drone strike last week in Jordan that killed three military personnel. The US has been carrying out retaliatory strikes on Iran-backed militias across Syria, Iraq and Yemen. ALSO READ | Furious Biden called Netanyahu ‘bad fu*king guy’ as Middle East crisis deepens: Report Washington’s top diplomat will nevertheless try to reinforce the message that US President Joe Biden’s administration neither seeks war with Iran nor wants the conflict to spread. So far, Tehran, despite its backing of several militia groups, has avoided any direct role in the conflict. Blinken’s key priority during this visit would be to “deliver a message directly to countries in the region that the United States does not want to see the conflict escalated and will not escalate the conflict,” a senior US official told reporters, as quoted by Reuters. “It’s important to show up and say it on one-on-one,” the official added. Meanwhile, the talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt with the backing of the US about the possible release of more than 130 hostages in Gaza in return for a humanitarian pause, are underway. (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.

Blinken kicks off Middle East visit, meets Saudi crown prince amid rise in tensions

<p>A war monitor claimed on Monday (Feb 5) that seven fighters from the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) were killed in an attack on an American base in eastern Syria overnight. SDF accused "Syrian regime-backed mercenaries" of carrying out the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights alleged that seven SDF special forces "commandos" were killed and 18 others wounded in "a drone attack after midnight" on the Al-Omar oil field in Syria's eastern province of Deir el-Zour, which is said to be the largest US-led coalition base in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US-backed SDF stated that "six of our fighters were martyred due to a terrorist attack" with a one-way drone hitting a "training academy in the Al-Omar oil field" around midnight. The death toll was earlier five, it rose to seven in the latest update.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-carries-out-strikes-against-five-missiles-in-yemen-687077">Middle East crisis: US carries out strikes against five missiles in Yemen</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>SDF has been leading the war against Islamic State group jihadists in Syria and the force condemned the attack in a statement and said the force reserved the right to respond.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, which is a loose alliance of pro-Iran fighters opposed to US support for Israel in Gaza, claimed a drone attack on Sunday "against the US occupation base in the Al-Omar oil field".&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Rami Abdel Rahman, who is the head of the Britain-based Observatory, the strike hit an SDF section inside the base, in "the first attack by pro-Iran groups against American bases after the US strikes on Syria and Iraq" late last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | US Centcom carries out 'self-defence' strikes in Yemen&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/royal-navys-hms-queen-elizabeth-faces-setback-propeller-shaft-issue-halts-nato-exercise-plans-687215">Royal Navy’s HMS Queen Elizabeth pulls out of NATO exercise after propeller shaft snag</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Middle East Crisis&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A drone slammed into a base in Jordan, killing three US soldiers and wounding more than 40 on January 28. Washington blamed Iran-backed forces for the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US responded Friday with a series of unilateral strikes on Iran-linked targets in Syria and Iraq, and has said it would press on with its retaliation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


A war monitor claimed on Monday (Feb 5) that seven fighters from the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) were killed in an attack on an American base in eastern Syria overnight.

A war monitor claimed on Monday (Feb 5) that seven fighters from the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) were killed in an attack on an American base in eastern Syria overnight. SDF accused "Syrian regime-backed mercenaries" of carrying out the attack. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights alleged that seven SDF special forces "commandos" were killed and 18 others wounded in "a drone attack after midnight" on the Al-Omar oil field in Syria's eastern province of Deir el-Zour, which is said to be the largest US-led coalition base in the country. The US-backed SDF stated that "six of our fighters were martyred due to a terrorist attack" with a one-way drone hitting a "training academy in the Al-Omar oil field" around midnight. The death toll was earlier five, it rose to seven in the latest update. Also read: Middle East crisis: US carries out strikes against five missiles in Yemen SDF has been leading the war against Islamic State group jihadists in Syria and the force condemned the attack in a statement and said the force reserved the right to respond. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, which is a loose alliance of pro-Iran fighters opposed to US support for Israel in Gaza, claimed a drone attack on Sunday "against the US occupation base in the Al-Omar oil field". According to Rami Abdel Rahman, who is the head of the Britain-based Observatory, the strike hit an SDF section inside the base, in "the first attack by pro-Iran groups against American bases after the US strikes on Syria and Iraq" late last week. Watch: Israel-Hamas war | US Centcom carries out 'self-defence' strikes in Yemen × Also read: Royal Navy’s HMS Queen Elizabeth pulls out of NATO exercise after propeller shaft snag Middle East Crisis A drone slammed into a base in Jordan, killing three US soldiers and wounding more than 40 on January 28. Washington blamed Iran-backed forces for the attack. The US responded Friday with a series of unilateral strikes on Iran-linked targets in Syria and Iraq, and has said it would press on with its retaliation. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East Crisis: Drone strike on base housing US troops kills seven in Syria

<p>A US-based professor was fired from job after her "anti-Israel rant". She has been identified in local reports as Shellyne Rodriguez. Once, she was previously caught on camera holding a machete to a reporter's neck.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by The New York Post, the 47-year-old Rodriguez wrote in an e-mail to students a week after the spring semester kicked off, "Cooper Union has fired me because of a social media post I made about 'Zionists'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year in May, she was fired by Hunter College after threatening to "cut up" a reporter outside her flat who asked her about a viral video in which she insulted Pro-Life students at school.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-carries-out-strikes-against-five-missiles-in-yemen-687077">Middle East crisis: US carries out strikes against five missiles in Yemen</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Rodriguez further wrote, "This is fascism. Ya'll are learning about it in real-time. Stay strong, [stay] brave, stay defiant, don't bite your tongue, and drink plenty of water! Pa-lante!"&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Cooper Union Students for Justice in Palestine shared her January 23 e-mail the next day on the social media platform Instagram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, the Cooper Union Students for Justice in Palestine wrote, "This firing represents an intense escalation of McCarthyist repression meant to intimidate and punish those in support of a Free Palestine and must be resisted to prevent its further normalisation and the ongoing genocide in Gaza."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Blade-Wielding Professor Shellyne Rodriguez Fired from Cooper Union Over Anti-Israel Rants<br />
<br />
Shellyne Rodriguez, the professor previously captured on camera holding a blade to a Post reporter's neck in May, has been fired from her recent teaching position at Cooper Union due to… <a href="https://t.co/Nec5xSH6BC">pic.twitter.com/Nec5xSH6BC</a></p>
— Unlimited L's (@unlimited_ls) <a href="https://twitter.com/unlimited_ls/status/1754170434822529346?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Why was she fired?</strong></h2>

<p>The official reason for her firing was not given, and spokeswoman&nbsp;for the college reportedly said&nbsp;that it does not comment on personnel matters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But in her Instagram post, Rodriguez said she was fired over "public comments about 'Zionists'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pro-Palestinian student group slammed her firing as "an intense escalation of repression" that "must be resisted".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a letter to the administration, the group wrote, "The Cooper Union wrongfully terminated a valued educator who is indispensable to the community and the academic livelihood of students."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pro-Palestinian group also defended her for speaking out against "genocide and settler-colonial violence".&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A US-based professor was fired from job after her "anti-Israel rant". She has been identified in local reports as Shellyne Rodriguez. Once, she was previously caught on camera holding a machete to a reporter's neck.

A US-based professor was fired from job after her "anti-Israel rant". She has been identified in local reports as Shellyne Rodriguez. Once, she was previously caught on camera holding a machete to a reporter's neck. As quoted by The New York Post, the 47-year-old Rodriguez wrote in an e-mail to students a week after the spring semester kicked off, "Cooper Union has fired me because of a social media post I made about 'Zionists'." Last year in May, she was fired by Hunter College after threatening to "cut up" a reporter outside her flat who asked her about a viral video in which she insulted Pro-Life students at school. Also read: Middle East crisis: US carries out strikes against five missiles in Yemen Rodriguez further wrote, "This is fascism. Ya'll are learning about it in real-time. Stay strong, [stay] brave, stay defiant, don't bite your tongue, and drink plenty of water! Pa-lante!" Meanwhile, the Cooper Union Students for Justice in Palestine shared her January 23 e-mail the next day on the social media platform Instagram. As quoted, the Cooper Union Students for Justice in Palestine wrote, "This firing represents an intense escalation of McCarthyist repression meant to intimidate and punish those in support of a Free Palestine and must be resisted to prevent its further normalisation and the ongoing genocide in Gaza." Blade-Wielding Professor Shellyne Rodriguez Fired from Cooper Union Over Anti-Israel Rants Shellyne Rodriguez, the professor previously captured on camera holding a blade to a Post reporter's neck in May, has been fired from her recent teaching position at Cooper Union due to… pic.twitter.com/Nec5xSH6BC — Unlimited L's (@unlimited_ls) February 4, 2024 × Why was she fired? The official reason for her firing was not given, and spokeswoman for the college reportedly said that it does not comment on personnel matters. But in her Instagram post, Rodriguez said she was fired over "public comments about 'Zionists'." The pro-Palestinian student group slammed her firing as "an intense escalation of repression" that "must be resisted". In a letter to the administration, the group wrote, "The Cooper Union wrongfully terminated a valued educator who is indispensable to the community and the academic livelihood of students." The pro-Palestinian group also defended her for speaking out against "genocide and settler-colonial violence". (With inputs from agencies)

US professor fired over ‘anti-Israel rant’. She once held machete to reporter’s neck

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<p>US House Speaker Mike Johnson on Sunday (Feb 4) rejected the much-anticipated deal that would unlock billions in new aid for Ukraine and Israel while tightening American border laws. In a post on X, the top House Republican said, "This bill is even worse than we expected, and won't come close to ending the border catastrophe the President has created."</p>

<p>Johnson pledged that if the bill reached the House, it would be 'dead on arrival'.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I’ve seen enough. This bill is even worse than we expected, and won’t come close to ending the border catastrophe the President has created. As the lead Democrat negotiator proclaimed: Under this legislation, “the border never closes.”<br />
<br />
If this bill reaches the House, it will be…</p>
— Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson/status/1754333708193091928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier in the day, American senators released the text of the deal. According to a report by the news agency AFP, Senate Appropriations Committee chair Patty Murray said the so-called national security supplemental legislation provided&nbsp;for $118.3 billion in total funding, including $60 billion to support Ukraine and $14.1 billion in security assistance to Israel.</p>

<p>Ukraine has been fighting a war against Russia since late Feb 2022 and Israel has been at war with Hamas since early Oct last year. The deal also included&nbsp;$20.2 billion for US border security and a myriad of immigration policy changes agreed to by both Democrats and Republicans. According to AFP, the bill's prospects of becoming a law are unclear.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden backs deal, urges Congress to swiftly pass it</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, strongly backing the bipartisan deal, President Joe Biden said, "We've reached an agreement on a bipartisan national security deal that includes the toughest and fairest set of border reforms in decades. I strongly support it."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-may-launch-additional-strikes-against-iran-backed-groups-686946">Middle East Crisis: US may launch additional strikes against Iran-backed groups</a></strong></p>

<p>President Biden urged Congress to "get it to my desk so I can sign it into law immediately."</p>

<p>He also urged Republicans to back the deal. "If you believe, as I do, that we must secure the border now, doing nothing is not an option," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Blinken begins fifth trip to Middle East</strong></h2>

<p>The release of the deal's text for war-torn Ukraine and Israel came as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken began a fifth trip to the Middle East, seeking to push forward a proposal to halt the Israel-Hamas war in return for the release of hostages held by the Palestinian militant group.</p>

<p>Blinken will visit Israel as well as Egypt and Qatar, the key go-between with Hamas which controls the Gaza Strip and maintains an office in Doha.</p>

<p>Speaking to CBS last week, National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan said that Blinken would press Israel to allow more food, water, medicine, and shelter in Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;How does the US earn from wars?</strong></p>

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<p>"This will be a top priority of his when he sees the Israeli government -- that the needs of the Palestinian people are something that is going to be front and centre in the US approach," Sullivan added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US House Speaker Mike Johnson on Sunday (Feb 4) rejected the much-anticipated deal that would unlock billions in new aid for Ukraine and Israel while tightening American border laws.

US House Speaker Mike Johnson on Sunday (Feb 4) rejected the much-anticipated deal that would unlock billions in new aid for Ukraine and Israel while tightening American border laws. In a post on X, the top House Republican said, "This bill is even worse than we expected, and won't come close to ending the border catastrophe the President has created." Johnson pledged that if the bill reached the House, it would be 'dead on arrival'. I’ve seen enough. This bill is even worse than we expected, and won’t come close to ending the border catastrophe the President has created. As the lead Democrat negotiator proclaimed: Under this legislation, “the border never closes.” If this bill reaches the House, it will be… — Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) February 5, 2024 × Earlier in the day, American senators released the text of the deal. According to a report by the news agency AFP, Senate Appropriations Committee chair Patty Murray said the so-called national security supplemental legislation provided for $118.3 billion in total funding, including $60 billion to support Ukraine and $14.1 billion in security assistance to Israel. Ukraine has been fighting a war against Russia since late Feb 2022 and Israel has been at war with Hamas since early Oct last year. The deal also included $20.2 billion for US border security and a myriad of immigration policy changes agreed to by both Democrats and Republicans. According to AFP, the bill's prospects of becoming a law are unclear. Biden backs deal, urges Congress to swiftly pass it Earlier, strongly backing the bipartisan deal, President Joe Biden said, "We've reached an agreement on a bipartisan national security deal that includes the toughest and fairest set of border reforms in decades. I strongly support it." Also read | Middle East Crisis: US may launch additional strikes against Iran-backed groups President Biden urged Congress to "get it to my desk so I can sign it into law immediately." He also urged Republicans to back the deal. "If you believe, as I do, that we must secure the border now, doing nothing is not an option," he added. Blinken begins fifth trip to Middle East The release of the deal's text for war-torn Ukraine and Israel came as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken began a fifth trip to the Middle East, seeking to push forward a proposal to halt the Israel-Hamas war in return for the release of hostages held by the Palestinian militant group. Blinken will visit Israel as well as Egypt and Qatar, the key go-between with Hamas which controls the Gaza Strip and maintains an office in Doha. Speaking to CBS last week, National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan said that Blinken would press Israel to allow more food, water, medicine, and shelter in Gaza. Also watch | How does the US earn from wars? × "This will be a top priority of his when he sees the Israeli government -- that the needs of the Palestinian people are something that is going to be front and centre in the US approach," Sullivan added. (With inputs from agencies)

US House speaker rejects Senate deal proposal for Ukraine over border security row

<p>White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Sunday (Feb 4) that the strikes which took place Friday night by the United States against Iran-backed groups were just the "first round" of action and more will follow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US military hit Tehran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria were a retaliation for a deadly attack on US troops in Jordan, which killed three US soldiers. A day after that, the US and the United Kingdom unleashed attacks on the Iran-aligned Houthis of Yemen late on Saturday in a joint action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking during "Fox News Sunday", Kirby said that the Pentagon believes that the US had a good effect during the strikes as the troops hit what they were aiming at.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kirby said during the interview, "I'm certainly not going to talk about potential future military operations. What I would say, and this is a really important point is what you saw on Friday night was just the first round. There will be additional response actions taken by the Administration against the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) and these groups that they are backing."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-strikes-on-yemen-will-bring-further-turmoil-to-middle-east-hamas-686905">US, UK strikes on Yemen will bring ‘further turmoil’ to Middle East: Hamas</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In a separate interview with NBC News, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said the US intended to make additional strikes against Iran-backed groups in the Middle East.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We intend to take additional strikes, and additional action, to continue to send a clear message that the United States will respond when our forces are attacked when our people are killed," Sullivan told NBC's "Meet the Press" programme on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The recent Middle East crisis began with the Israel-Hamas war, but the conflict spread to another region with the strikes being the latest blows. The Israel-Hamas war started on October 7, when the militant group Hamas stormed Israel from the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Can Britain afford a third world war?</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-half-of-adults-in-us-say-israels-campaign-in-gaza-has-gone-too-far-poll-shows-686888">Israel-Hamas war: Half of adults in US say Israel’s campaign in Gaza has gone ‘too far’</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Iran issues a warning</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Iran on Sunday issued a warning to the US over potentially targeting two cargo ships in the Mideast long suspected of serving as forwarding operating base for Iranian commandos.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Yemen strikes overnight Sunday struck across six provinces of Yemen held by the Houthi rebels, including in Sanaa, the capital. The Houthis did not provide an assessment of the damage, but the US said it targeted underground missile arsenals, launch locations, and rebel helicopters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted in a report by The Associated Press, Houthi military spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree said, "These attacks will not discourage Yemeni forces and the nation from maintaining their support for Palestinians in the face of the Zionist occupation and crimes. The aggressors’ airstrikes will not go unanswered."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Sunday (Feb 4) that the strikes which took place Friday night by the United States against Iran-backed groups were just the "first round" of action and more will follow.

White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Sunday (Feb 4) that the strikes which took place Friday night by the United States against Iran-backed groups were just the "first round" of action and more will follow. The US military hit Tehran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria were a retaliation for a deadly attack on US troops in Jordan, which killed three US soldiers. A day after that, the US and the United Kingdom unleashed attacks on the Iran-aligned Houthis of Yemen late on Saturday in a joint action. While speaking during "Fox News Sunday", Kirby said that the Pentagon believes that the US had a good effect during the strikes as the troops hit what they were aiming at. Kirby said during the interview, "I'm certainly not going to talk about potential future military operations. What I would say, and this is a really important point is what you saw on Friday night was just the first round. There will be additional response actions taken by the Administration against the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) and these groups that they are backing." Also read: US, UK strikes on Yemen will bring ‘further turmoil’ to Middle East: Hamas In a separate interview with NBC News, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said the US intended to make additional strikes against Iran-backed groups in the Middle East. "We intend to take additional strikes, and additional action, to continue to send a clear message that the United States will respond when our forces are attacked when our people are killed," Sullivan told NBC's "Meet the Press" programme on Sunday. The recent Middle East crisis began with the Israel-Hamas war, but the conflict spread to another region with the strikes being the latest blows. The Israel-Hamas war started on October 7, when the militant group Hamas stormed Israel from the Gaza Strip. Watch: Can Britain afford a third world war? × Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Half of adults in US say Israel’s campaign in Gaza has gone ‘too far’ Iran issues a warning Iran on Sunday issued a warning to the US over potentially targeting two cargo ships in the Mideast long suspected of serving as forwarding operating base for Iranian commandos. The Yemen strikes overnight Sunday struck across six provinces of Yemen held by the Houthi rebels, including in Sanaa, the capital. The Houthis did not provide an assessment of the damage, but the US said it targeted underground missile arsenals, launch locations, and rebel helicopters. As quoted in a report by The Associated Press, Houthi military spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree said, "These attacks will not discourage Yemeni forces and the nation from maintaining their support for Palestinians in the face of the Zionist occupation and crimes. The aggressors’ airstrikes will not go unanswered." Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East Crisis: US may launch additional strikes against Iran-backed groups

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<p>A poll from the news agency Associated Press on Friday (Feb 2) revealed that half of adults in the United States said&nbsp;that Israel's ongoing offensive in the Gaza Strip has “gone too far.” Broadly, the poll showed support for Israel and the Biden administration's handling of the situation (the Israel-Hamas war). Thirty-one per cent of American adults approved of President Joe Biden's handling of the war. But 50 per cent said the Israeli response had gone too far, up from 40 per cent in a previous poll carried out by the news agency in November 2023.</p>

<p>Since the conflict started on Oct 7 last year, Washington has become increasingly isolated in its support of Israel as the death toll in the Gaza Strip crossed 27,000 with most of the victims being women and children.</p>

<p>The poll was carried out from Jan 25-28. It overlapped with the killing of three US troops in Jordan, the first deaths among American service members in what’s been widening regional conflict since Oct 7.</p>

<h2><strong>What did Democrats and Republicans say?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the poll, 33 per cent of Republicans said the Israeli offensive had gone too far, up from 18 per cent in the previous poll. Fifty-two per cent of independents agreed with this school of thought, up from 39 per cent.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/where-is-al-tanf-the-site-of-deadly-drone-strike-on-us-troops-in-jordan-located-684727">Where is Al-Tanf, the site of deadly drone strike that killed 3 US troops, located?</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, 63 per cent of Democrats said the offensive had gone too far. The poll's findings include more worrying news for Biden when it comes to support from the Democrats.</p>

<h2><strong>'An unfair fight'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking with the Associated Press, Melissa Morales, a political independent in Runnemede, said that she has been watching videos and news from Gaza daily. Expressing concerns over images and visuals of Palestinian children wounded, orphaned, or unhoused by the fighting, Morales said, "I just can’t even imagine, like, my son roaming the streets, wanting to be safe. Wanting his mom. Or just wanting someone to get him."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: US House proposes $17.6 billion in military aid to Israel</strong></p>

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<p>“These kids ... they’re needing the end of this. It’s such an unfair fight," she added.</p>

<p>John Milor, a Republican voting independent, said he remained 100 per cent behind Israel. However, Milor said he noticed more young people in his circle speaking out against Israel.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A poll from the news agency Associated Press on Friday (Feb 2) revealed that half of adults in the United States said that Israel's ongoing offensive in the Gaza Strip has “gone too far.

A poll from the news agency Associated Press on Friday (Feb 2) revealed that half of adults in the United States said that Israel's ongoing offensive in the Gaza Strip has “gone too far.” Broadly, the poll showed support for Israel and the Biden administration's handling of the situation (the Israel-Hamas war). Thirty-one per cent of American adults approved of President Joe Biden's handling of the war. But 50 per cent said the Israeli response had gone too far, up from 40 per cent in a previous poll carried out by the news agency in November 2023. Since the conflict started on Oct 7 last year, Washington has become increasingly isolated in its support of Israel as the death toll in the Gaza Strip crossed 27,000 with most of the victims being women and children. The poll was carried out from Jan 25-28. It overlapped with the killing of three US troops in Jordan, the first deaths among American service members in what’s been widening regional conflict since Oct 7. What did Democrats and Republicans say? According to the poll, 33 per cent of Republicans said the Israeli offensive had gone too far, up from 18 per cent in the previous poll. Fifty-two per cent of independents agreed with this school of thought, up from 39 per cent. Also read | Where is Al-Tanf, the site of deadly drone strike that killed 3 US troops, located? Meanwhile, 63 per cent of Democrats said the offensive had gone too far. The poll's findings include more worrying news for Biden when it comes to support from the Democrats. 'An unfair fight' Speaking with the Associated Press, Melissa Morales, a political independent in Runnemede, said that she has been watching videos and news from Gaza daily. Expressing concerns over images and visuals of Palestinian children wounded, orphaned, or unhoused by the fighting, Morales said, "I just can’t even imagine, like, my son roaming the streets, wanting to be safe. Wanting his mom. Or just wanting someone to get him." Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: US House proposes $17.6 billion in military aid to Israel × “These kids ... they’re needing the end of this. It’s such an unfair fight," she added. John Milor, a Republican voting independent, said he remained 100 per cent behind Israel. However, Milor said he noticed more young people in his circle speaking out against Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Half of adults in US say Israel’s campaign in Gaza has gone ‘too far’

<p>As Israel continues its&nbsp;war against the Hamas militant group in Gaza, the US House panel&nbsp;recommended allocating $17.6 billion in new military assistance to the Jewish nation on Sunday (Feb 4).&nbsp;The billions of dollars in aid will help replenish&nbsp;Israel's missile defence systems, manufacturing artillery and other munitions, and acquiring advanced weapons systems.</p>

<p>Some of these funds will also be used to restock US arms provided to Israel in the wake of the deadly October 7 Hamas attack, which resulted in the killings of over a thousand&nbsp;Israelis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to US House Speaker Mike Johnson, the funding bill, presented by the House Appropriations panel, is likely to undergo a vote in the full House next week. Under a 10-year plan initiated in 2016, Israel currently gets an annual $3.8 billion in US military assistance.</p>

<p>Last November, months after the deadly attack by Hamas on Israeli soil, the House passed a Republican plan to provide $14.3 billion in aid to Israel by cutting the funds to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-carry-out-joint-air-raids-against-houthi-targets-in-yemen-hit-36-sites-686775">US, UK carry out joint air raids against Houthi targets in Yemen, hit 36 sites</a></p>

<p>However, the Democratic-controlled Senate blocked the bill at the time. Now the new bill, as per Reuters, will provide aid to Israel and additional military assistance to Ukraine. Moreover, the Senate is also considering incorporating aid to Taiwan as part of its comprehensive legislation.</p>

<p>The upcoming Senate bill is also expected to encompass proposals to tackle the issue of US-Mexico border security, which is closely tied to immigration concerns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-50-hezbollah-targets-hit-in-syria-since-oct-7-says-israel-686772">Over 50 Hezbollah targets hit in Syria since Oct 7, says Israel</a></p>

<p>Notably, the US-Mexico border has long been a focal point of election discussions, with a range of issues. This also holds importance in light of the upcoming presidential elections in the United States. The debate on the comprehensive bill will commence next week, with an initial procedural vote scheduled for no later than Wednesday, as per Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/over-40-killed-as-us-unleashes-airstrikes-on-iranian-proxies-in-iraq-syria-686763">Over 40 killed as US unleashes airstrikes on Iranian proxies in Iraq &amp; Syria</a></strong></p>

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<p>Speaker Mike Johnson emphasising upon&nbsp;the urgency of lending support to Israel said,&nbsp;"The need to support our closest ally and our own forces in the region has never been more pressing."</p>

<p>The House and Senate must pass the bill in order for US to provide aid to Israel and Ukraine. The bill will then be sent to US President Joe Biden for final approval.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


As Israel continues its war against the Hamas militant group in Gaza, the US House panel recommended allocating $17.6 billion in new military assistance to the Jewish nation on Sunday (Feb 4).

As Israel continues its war against the Hamas militant group in Gaza, the US House panel recommended allocating $17.6 billion in new military assistance to the Jewish nation on Sunday (Feb 4). The billions of dollars in aid will help replenish Israel's missile defence systems, manufacturing artillery and other munitions, and acquiring advanced weapons systems. Some of these funds will also be used to restock US arms provided to Israel in the wake of the deadly October 7 Hamas attack, which resulted in the killings of over a thousand Israelis. According to US House Speaker Mike Johnson, the funding bill, presented by the House Appropriations panel, is likely to undergo a vote in the full House next week. Under a 10-year plan initiated in 2016, Israel currently gets an annual $3.8 billion in US military assistance. Last November, months after the deadly attack by Hamas on Israeli soil, the House passed a Republican plan to provide $14.3 billion in aid to Israel by cutting the funds to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Also Read | US, UK carry out joint air raids against Houthi targets in Yemen, hit 36 sites However, the Democratic-controlled Senate blocked the bill at the time. Now the new bill, as per Reuters, will provide aid to Israel and additional military assistance to Ukraine. Moreover, the Senate is also considering incorporating aid to Taiwan as part of its comprehensive legislation. The upcoming Senate bill is also expected to encompass proposals to tackle the issue of US-Mexico border security, which is closely tied to immigration concerns. Also Read | Over 50 Hezbollah targets hit in Syria since Oct 7, says Israel Notably, the US-Mexico border has long been a focal point of election discussions, with a range of issues. This also holds importance in light of the upcoming presidential elections in the United States. The debate on the comprehensive bill will commence next week, with an initial procedural vote scheduled for no later than Wednesday, as per Reuters. Watch | Over 40 killed as US unleashes airstrikes on Iranian proxies in Iraq & Syria × Speaker Mike Johnson emphasising upon the urgency of lending support to Israel said, "The need to support our closest ally and our own forces in the region has never been more pressing." The House and Senate must pass the bill in order for US to provide aid to Israel and Ukraine. The bill will then be sent to US President Joe Biden for final approval. (With inputs from agencies)

US House proposes $17.6 billion in military aid to Israel amid war with Hamas

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The US is actively pursuing a second hostage deal as well as humanitarian assistance to Gaza. In the latest US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a telephonic conversation with his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan about the Israel-Hamas War.

Israel-Hamas war | US pushes for ceasefire agreement in Gaza

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidQTPsuMcaHo9n" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The United Nations said&nbsp;on Friday (Feb 2) that at least 17,000 children in the war-torn Gaza Strip have been left unaccompanied or separated from their parents. Addressing a press conference, UNICEF spokesperson Jonathan Crickx said, "This figure corresponds to one per cent of the overall displaced population -- 1.7 million people." Each one "is a child who is coming to terms with a horrible new reality."</p>

<p>He added that tracing who the children were was proving "extremely difficult", as sometimes they were brought to a hospital where they may be wounded or in shock, and they couldn't even say their names. The UNICEF spokesperson said that during conflicts, it was common for extended families to take care of children who lost their parents.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-un-agency-for-palestinian-refugees-says-it-can-shut-down-by-feb-end-if-funding-doesnt-resum-686067">Israel-Hamas war: UNRWA says it can shut down by Feb end if funding doesn't resume</a></strong></p>

<p>However, due to&nbsp;lack of necessities such as food, water or shelter, extended families were themselves distressed "and faced challenges to immediately take care of another child as they themselves are struggling to cater for their own children and family."</p>

<h2><strong>'Over a million children in need of mental health'</strong></h2>

<p>Jonathan Crickx also told reporters on Friday that more than a million children in Gaza needed mental health and psycho-social support. Before the Israel-Hamas war started in Oct last year, UNICEF estimated that more than 500,000 children in the Palestinian territory needed such help.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Israel-Hamas war has entered its second month. Children have become the pawns and the victims on both sides of the conflict.<br />
<br />
So, who is to be blamed?<br />
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Watch Dark World with <a href="https://twitter.com/B_Torg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@b_torg</a> to know more.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraelHamaswar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IsraelHamaswar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChildreninIsraelHamaswar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChildreninIsraelHamaswar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNICEF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNICEF</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hamas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hamas</a> <a href="https://t.co/65Ixp5PwbW">pic.twitter.com/65Ixp5PwbW</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1734022689960968443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"They present symptoms like extremely high levels of persistent anxiety, loss of appetite, they can’t sleep, they have emotional outbursts or panic every time they hear the bombings," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Children don't have anything to do with this conflict. Yet they are suffering like no child should ever suffer," the UNICEF spokesperson added and called for a ceasefire so that UNICEF could conduct a proper count of children who are unaccompanied or separated, trace relatives, and deliver mental health support.</p>

<h2><strong>Hamas gives initial support to Gaza truce plan: Qatar</strong></h2>

<p>On Thursday, Qatar's foreign ministry said that Hamas gave initial support to a proposal for the cessation of fighting in Gaza and the release of hostages. Last Sunday, US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators met with Israeli intelligence officials in Paris where they proposed a six-week pause in the fighting and a hostage-prisoner exchange for Hamas to review.</p>

<p>However, a source close to Hamas told the news agency AFP that there was still no consensus on the proposal. "There is no agreement on the framework of the agreement yet... and the Qatari statement is rushed and not true," the source said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Nations said on Friday (Feb 2) that at least 17,000 children in the war-torn Gaza Strip have been left unaccompanied or separated from their parents. Addressing a press conference, UNICEF spokesperson Jonathan Crickx said, "This figure corresponds to one per cent of the overall displaced population -- 1.

The United Nations said on Friday (Feb 2) that at least 17,000 children in the war-torn Gaza Strip have been left unaccompanied or separated from their parents. Addressing a press conference, UNICEF spokesperson Jonathan Crickx said, "This figure corresponds to one per cent of the overall displaced population -- 1.7 million people." Each one "is a child who is coming to terms with a horrible new reality." He added that tracing who the children were was proving "extremely difficult", as sometimes they were brought to a hospital where they may be wounded or in shock, and they couldn't even say their names. The UNICEF spokesperson said that during conflicts, it was common for extended families to take care of children who lost their parents. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: UNRWA says it can shut down by Feb end if funding doesn't resume However, due to lack of necessities such as food, water or shelter, extended families were themselves distressed "and faced challenges to immediately take care of another child as they themselves are struggling to cater for their own children and family." 'Over a million children in need of mental health' Jonathan Crickx also told reporters on Friday that more than a million children in Gaza needed mental health and psycho-social support. Before the Israel-Hamas war started in Oct last year, UNICEF estimated that more than 500,000 children in the Palestinian territory needed such help. The Israel-Hamas war has entered its second month. Children have become the pawns and the victims on both sides of the conflict. So, who is to be blamed? Watch Dark World with @b_torg to know more.#IsraelHamaswar #ChildreninIsraelHamaswar #UNICEF #Hamas pic.twitter.com/65Ixp5PwbW — WION (@WIONews) December 11, 2023 × "They present symptoms like extremely high levels of persistent anxiety, loss of appetite, they can’t sleep, they have emotional outbursts or panic every time they hear the bombings," he said. "Children don't have anything to do with this conflict. Yet they are suffering like no child should ever suffer," the UNICEF spokesperson added and called for a ceasefire so that UNICEF could conduct a proper count of children who are unaccompanied or separated, trace relatives, and deliver mental health support. Hamas gives initial support to Gaza truce plan: Qatar On Thursday, Qatar's foreign ministry said that Hamas gave initial support to a proposal for the cessation of fighting in Gaza and the release of hostages. Last Sunday, US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators met with Israeli intelligence officials in Paris where they proposed a six-week pause in the fighting and a hostage-prisoner exchange for Hamas to review. However, a source close to Hamas told the news agency AFP that there was still no consensus on the proposal. "There is no agreement on the framework of the agreement yet... and the Qatari statement is rushed and not true," the source said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: At least 17,000 children in Gaza left unaccompanied or separated from parents, says UN

<p>United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Feb 1) announced that Washington will place sanctions on Israeli settlers in the West Bank, an executive order revealed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, which started after the October 7 attacks by Hamas militant, hundreds of Palestinians have lost their lives to security forces and settlers across the occupied West Bank.&nbsp;</p>

<p>White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said in a statement that Biden's directive creates a procedure for imposing financial sanctions and visa restrictions on those who are proven to have harmed found to have attacked or intimidated Palestinians or seized their property.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The data was released by the United Nations, which notes that the violence is separate from Israel's military assault on Gaza, where the death toll is approaching 27,000 Palestinians, as per local health officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-government-approves-strikes-against-iranian-targets-in-iraq-and-syria-report-686072">Biden government approves strikes against Iranian targets in Iraq and Syria: Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Biden wrote a note to Congress stating that the actions by Israeli settler extremists "constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States". He also declared a national emergency to address it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The order read, "Joseph R Biden Jr, President of the United States of America, find that the situation in the West Bank – in particular high levels of extremist settler violence, forced displacement of people and villages, and property destruction – has reached intolerable levels and constitutes a serious threat to the peace, security, and stability of the West Bank and Gaza, Israel, and the broader Middle East region."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These actions undermine the foreign policy objectives of the United States, including the viability of a two-state solution and ensuring Israelis and Palestinians can attain equal measures of security, prosperity, and freedom. They also undermine the security of Israel and have the potential to lead to broader regional destabilization across the Middle East, threatening United States personnel and interests," it added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Humanitarian crisis deepens in Gaza&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defense-chief-apologizes-for-concealing-hospitalization-686070">US defense chief apologises for concealing hospitalisation</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>No room for US sanctions</strong></h2>

<p>On Thursday evening, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there was "no room" for US sanctions on settlers in the occupied West Bank.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Israel acts against all lawbreakers everywhere, so there is no room for exceptional measures in this regard," said a statement by Netanyahu's office.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Feb 1) announced that Washington will place sanctions on Israeli settlers in the West Bank, an executive order revealed.

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Feb 1) announced that Washington will place sanctions on Israeli settlers in the West Bank, an executive order revealed. In the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, which started after the October 7 attacks by Hamas militant, hundreds of Palestinians have lost their lives to security forces and settlers across the occupied West Bank. White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said in a statement that Biden's directive creates a procedure for imposing financial sanctions and visa restrictions on those who are proven to have harmed found to have attacked or intimidated Palestinians or seized their property. The data was released by the United Nations, which notes that the violence is separate from Israel's military assault on Gaza, where the death toll is approaching 27,000 Palestinians, as per local health officials. Also read: Biden government approves strikes against Iranian targets in Iraq and Syria: Report Biden wrote a note to Congress stating that the actions by Israeli settler extremists "constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States". He also declared a national emergency to address it. The order read, "Joseph R Biden Jr, President of the United States of America, find that the situation in the West Bank – in particular high levels of extremist settler violence, forced displacement of people and villages, and property destruction – has reached intolerable levels and constitutes a serious threat to the peace, security, and stability of the West Bank and Gaza, Israel, and the broader Middle East region." "These actions undermine the foreign policy objectives of the United States, including the viability of a two-state solution and ensuring Israelis and Palestinians can attain equal measures of security, prosperity, and freedom. They also undermine the security of Israel and have the potential to lead to broader regional destabilization across the Middle East, threatening United States personnel and interests," it added. Also read: Humanitarian crisis deepens in Gaza × Also read: US defense chief apologises for concealing hospitalisation No room for US sanctions On Thursday evening, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there was "no room" for US sanctions on settlers in the occupied West Bank. "Israel acts against all lawbreakers everywhere, so there is no room for exceptional measures in this regard," said a statement by Netanyahu's office. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden's order targets Jewish settler violence in West Bank, Netanyahu reacts

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<p>The United Nations Palestinian refugee agency, commonly known as the UNRWA, said on Thursday (Feb 1) that it would most likely be forced to shut down its operations by the end of Feb in the war-torn Gaza Strip and the rest of the Middle East if international funding did not resume. "The agency remains the largest aid organization in one of the most severe and complex humanitarian crises in the world," UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If the funding remains suspended, we will most likely be forced to shut down our operations by the end of February not only in Gaza but also across the region," Lazzarini added.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/middle-east-crisis-live-unrwa-forced-to-abandon-its-health-centres-and-shelters-in-western-khan-younis-685678">Click here to follow all updates on the Middle East crisis</a></strong></p>

<p>Several countries including the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Germany, and Japan suspended funding to UNRWA, which has been at the heart of humanitarian efforts in Gaza after the Israel-Hamas war started in Oct last year. The suspension came in the wake of Israel's allegations that some UNRWA staff were involved in Hamas' Oct 7 attack.</p>

<h2><strong>'Urge nations to reconsider their decision'</strong></h2>

<p>A report by the news agency AFP on Thursday said&nbsp;Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi&nbsp;held talks with&nbsp;Philippe Lazzarini and&nbsp;"emphasised the immediate need for the international community to support UNRWA, which plays an indispensable role for Palestinian refugees, serving as a lifeline for over two million Palestinians facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Gaza."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A number of donor countries suspended US$ 440 million worth of funding to <a href="https://twitter.com/UNRWA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNRWA</a> Meanwhile the war in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> is going unabated.<br />
<br />
At the time the International Court of Justice calls for more humanitarian assistance, it is the time to reinforce not to weaken <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNRWA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNRWA</a> We are the…</p>
— Philippe Lazzarini (@UNLazzarini) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNLazzarini/status/1753064498259189925?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>A foreign ministry statement said that both Safadi and Lazzarini urged countries that have suspended aid to UNRWA to "reconsider their decision."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-countries-pausing-funding-for-unrwa-might-be-violating-genocide-convention-heres-how-684886">Explained: Countries pausing funding for UNRWA might be violating genocide convention. Here’s how</a></strong></p>

<p>"Any reduction in financial support provided to the agency will exacerbate the suffering of the people of Gaza, who are already on the brink of mass starvation," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UNRWA totally infiltrated with Hamas: Netanyahu</strong></h2>

<p>The UNRWA's SOS comes a day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a meeting of UN ambassadors in Jerusalem said that the UNRWA had been "totally infiltrated" by Hamas, and added that "we need to get other UN agencies and other aid agencies replacing UNRWA."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israeli PM Netanyahu says UNRWA’s mission must be terminated</strong></p>

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<p>"I say this with great regret because we hoped that there would be an objective and constructive body to offer aid. We need such a body today in Gaza, but UNRWA is not that body," the Israeli PM further said during the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Nations Palestinian refugee agency, commonly known as the UNRWA, said on Thursday (Feb 1) that it would most likely be forced to shut down its operations by the end of Feb in the war-torn Gaza Strip and the rest of the Middle East if international funding did not resume.

The United Nations Palestinian refugee agency, commonly known as the UNRWA, said on Thursday (Feb 1) that it would most likely be forced to shut down its operations by the end of Feb in the war-torn Gaza Strip and the rest of the Middle East if international funding did not resume. "The agency remains the largest aid organization in one of the most severe and complex humanitarian crises in the world," UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said in a statement. "If the funding remains suspended, we will most likely be forced to shut down our operations by the end of February not only in Gaza but also across the region," Lazzarini added. Click here to follow all updates on the Middle East crisis Several countries including the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Germany, and Japan suspended funding to UNRWA, which has been at the heart of humanitarian efforts in Gaza after the Israel-Hamas war started in Oct last year. The suspension came in the wake of Israel's allegations that some UNRWA staff were involved in Hamas' Oct 7 attack. 'Urge nations to reconsider their decision' A report by the news agency AFP on Thursday said Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi held talks with Philippe Lazzarini and "emphasised the immediate need for the international community to support UNRWA, which plays an indispensable role for Palestinian refugees, serving as a lifeline for over two million Palestinians facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Gaza." A number of donor countries suspended US$ 440 million worth of funding to @UNRWA Meanwhile the war in #Gaza is going unabated. At the time the International Court of Justice calls for more humanitarian assistance, it is the time to reinforce not to weaken #UNRWA We are the… — Philippe Lazzarini (@UNLazzarini) February 1, 2024 × A foreign ministry statement said that both Safadi and Lazzarini urged countries that have suspended aid to UNRWA to "reconsider their decision." Also read | Explained: Countries pausing funding for UNRWA might be violating genocide convention. Here’s how "Any reduction in financial support provided to the agency will exacerbate the suffering of the people of Gaza, who are already on the brink of mass starvation," the statement added. UNRWA totally infiltrated with Hamas: Netanyahu The UNRWA's SOS comes a day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a meeting of UN ambassadors in Jerusalem said that the UNRWA had been "totally infiltrated" by Hamas, and added that "we need to get other UN agencies and other aid agencies replacing UNRWA." Also watch | Israeli PM Netanyahu says UNRWA’s mission must be terminated × "I say this with great regret because we hoped that there would be an objective and constructive body to offer aid. We need such a body today in Gaza, but UNRWA is not that body," the Israeli PM further said during the meeting. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: UNRWA says it can shut down by Feb end if funding doesn't resume

US has downed 10 Houthi drones, ground centre and as the West Asian Crisis escalates, an explosion was reported near a vessel in Red Sea followed by flurry of Houthi strikes. "This is a dangerous moment in Middle East," says US Defence Secretary Austin. Watch to know more!

Red Sea Crisis: US military says it downed Houthi missiles in Red Sea

Man takes seven people hostage at Procter & Gamble factory. Police secures release of all hostages. The suspect wanted to protest the war in Gaza. Authorities say all hostages released unharmed. Procter & Gamble says the suspect was not an employee. The suspect was detained after nine hours. Watch to know more!

Turkey: Man takes seven people hostage at Procter & Gamble factory

<p>Britain's top diplomat, former prime minister David Cameron on Thursday (Feb 1st) said that his country could officially recognise a Palestinian state after a cease-fire. Speaking&nbsp;during a visit to Lebanon, he&nbsp;said this could be done without waiting for the outcome of what could be years-long talks on a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians.</p>

<h2><strong>Terms and conditions applied</strong></h2>

<p>The British Foreign Secretary said that the UK's recognition of an independent State of Palestine "can't come at the start of the process, but it doesn't have to be the very end of the process."</p>

<p>"It could be something that we consider as this process, as this advance to a solution, becomes more real," said Cameron.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-gives-initial-positive-confirmation-on-truce-plan-says-qatar-686142">Hamas gives 'initial positive confirmation' on truce plan, says Qatar</a></strong></p>

<p>"What we need to do is give the Palestinian people a horizon towards a better future, the future of having a state of their own."</p>

<p>However, he stated that no recognition could come while Hamas remained in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You can't have a two-state solution with Gaza still controlled by the people responsible for 7 October," he said, referring to the Hamas attack that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cameron also said the first step towards this must be a "pause in the fighting" in Gaza, which he said would eventually turn into "a permanent, sustainable ceasefire".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seven-hostages-rescued-as-turkish-police-detain-gunman-protesting-gaza-war-at-procter-gamble-factory-686155">Seven hostages rescued as Turkish police detain gunman protesting Gaza war at Procter &amp; Gamble factory</a></strong></p>

<p>The ex-prime minister labelled the prospect "absolutely vital for the long-term peace and security of the region."</p>

<h2><strong>International support for two-state</strong></h2>

<p>Globally, many Western nations, including the United Kingdom and the United States, have voiced their support for the idea of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, reports The Guardian. However, they stress that Palestinian independence must come as part of a negotiated settlement.</p>

<p>Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have consistently been against the creation of an independent Palestinian state after the end of the ongoing war. Netanyahu, in December, even boasted that he was instrumental in stopping Palestine's statehood.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Red Sea Crisis: US military says it downed Houthi missiles in Red Sea</strong></p>

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<p>Speaking at a press conference in Tel Aviv, he claimed that he had halted the progression of the Oslo peace process. Calling the Oslo Accords "a fateful mistake", he said that Israel would not "repeat the mistake of Oslo".</p>

<p>As per news outlet Common Dreams, he also said that the results of the "little Palestinian state in Gaza" brought about by the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in 2005 demonstrated the dangers of allowing Palestinian sovereignty in the West Bank.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Britain's top diplomat, former prime minister David Cameron on Thursday (Feb 1st) said that his country could officially recognise a Palestinian state after a cease-fire.

Britain's top diplomat, former prime minister David Cameron on Thursday (Feb 1st) said that his country could officially recognise a Palestinian state after a cease-fire. Speaking during a visit to Lebanon, he said this could be done without waiting for the outcome of what could be years-long talks on a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians. Terms and conditions applied The British Foreign Secretary said that the UK's recognition of an independent State of Palestine "can't come at the start of the process, but it doesn't have to be the very end of the process." "It could be something that we consider as this process, as this advance to a solution, becomes more real," said Cameron. Also read | Hamas gives 'initial positive confirmation' on truce plan, says Qatar "What we need to do is give the Palestinian people a horizon towards a better future, the future of having a state of their own." However, he stated that no recognition could come while Hamas remained in Gaza. "You can't have a two-state solution with Gaza still controlled by the people responsible for 7 October," he said, referring to the Hamas attack that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza. Cameron also said the first step towards this must be a "pause in the fighting" in Gaza, which he said would eventually turn into "a permanent, sustainable ceasefire". Also read | Seven hostages rescued as Turkish police detain gunman protesting Gaza war at Procter & Gamble factory The ex-prime minister labelled the prospect "absolutely vital for the long-term peace and security of the region." International support for two-state Globally, many Western nations, including the United Kingdom and the United States, have voiced their support for the idea of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, reports The Guardian. However, they stress that Palestinian independence must come as part of a negotiated settlement. Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have consistently been against the creation of an independent Palestinian state after the end of the ongoing war. Netanyahu, in December, even boasted that he was instrumental in stopping Palestine's statehood. Watch | Red Sea Crisis: US military says it downed Houthi missiles in Red Sea Speaking at a press conference in Tel Aviv, he claimed that he had halted the progression of the Oslo peace process. Calling the Oslo Accords "a fateful mistake", he said that Israel would not "repeat the mistake of Oslo". As per news outlet Common Dreams, he also said that the results of the "little Palestinian state in Gaza" brought about by the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in 2005 demonstrated the dangers of allowing Palestinian sovereignty in the West Bank. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain could officially recognise a Palestinian state after cease-fire, says top UK diplomat

<p>The United States officials have approved plans for a series of strikes against Iranian personnel and facilities in Iraq and Syria for over a number of days, CBS News reported on Thursday (Feb 1) citing government sources.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The strikes will come in response to drone and rocket attacks targeting US forces in the region, including the recent drone attack that killed three US service members in Jordan and left dozens others injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The CBS report quoted US officials as saying the weather was a factor in the timing of the planned strikes, as Washington prefers to carry out strikes when visibility is good over its targets to safeguard against hitting civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defense-chief-apologizes-for-concealing-hospitalization-686070">US defense chief apologises for concealing hospitalisation</a></strong></p>

<p>Washington has said the attack on its troops&nbsp;in Jordan near the Syrian border bore the "footprints" of Ketaib Hezbollah, which is a pro-Iranian militia based in Iraq. That group said on Wednesday it was suspending military action against US&nbsp;forces to avoid embarrassing the Iraqi government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, four US officials told the news agency Reuters that the drone used in the attack was believed to have been made in Iran, linking Tehran directly to the attacks. But Iran has denied any role.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this video:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-approves-sale-of-mq-9b-remotely-piloted-aircraft-to-india-686080">US approves sale of MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft to India</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Iran 'not afraid of war' with US&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Hossein Salami, the chief commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said on Wednesday, that Tehran is not afraid of direct military confrontation with Washington.&nbsp;He also said that threats coming from the US&nbsp;will not be left unanswered, further adding that Iran is not seeking war with the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We hear some threats from American officials about targeting Iran. We tell them that you tested us and we know each other. We do not leave any threat unanswered, and we do not look for war, but we are not afraid of it. This is the well-known truth," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the official IRNA news agency, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said, "America must stop using the language of threat and projection and focus on a political solution."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Iran's response to threats is decisive and immediate," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iran's comment came after Biden's remarks, in which he said he had decided on a response to a drone attack. But even the Biden administration had stressed that it was not seeking a war with Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The United States officials have approved plans for a series of strikes against Iranian personnel and facilities in Iraq and Syria for over a number of days, CBS News reported on Thursday (Feb 1) citing government sources.

The United States officials have approved plans for a series of strikes against Iranian personnel and facilities in Iraq and Syria for over a number of days, CBS News reported on Thursday (Feb 1) citing government sources. The strikes will come in response to drone and rocket attacks targeting US forces in the region, including the recent drone attack that killed three US service members in Jordan and left dozens others injured. The CBS report quoted US officials as saying the weather was a factor in the timing of the planned strikes, as Washington prefers to carry out strikes when visibility is good over its targets to safeguard against hitting civilians. Also read: US defense chief apologises for concealing hospitalisation Washington has said the attack on its troops in Jordan near the Syrian border bore the "footprints" of Ketaib Hezbollah, which is a pro-Iranian militia based in Iraq. That group said on Wednesday it was suspending military action against US forces to avoid embarrassing the Iraqi government. Meanwhile, four US officials told the news agency Reuters that the drone used in the attack was believed to have been made in Iran, linking Tehran directly to the attacks. But Iran has denied any role. Watch this video: × Also read: US approves sale of MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft to India Iran 'not afraid of war' with US Hossein Salami, the chief commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said on Wednesday, that Tehran is not afraid of direct military confrontation with Washington. He also said that threats coming from the US will not be left unanswered, further adding that Iran is not seeking war with the US. "We hear some threats from American officials about targeting Iran. We tell them that you tested us and we know each other. We do not leave any threat unanswered, and we do not look for war, but we are not afraid of it. This is the well-known truth," he said. According to the official IRNA news agency, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said, "America must stop using the language of threat and projection and focus on a political solution." "Iran's response to threats is decisive and immediate," he added. Iran's comment came after Biden's remarks, in which he said he had decided on a response to a drone attack. But even the Biden administration had stressed that it was not seeking a war with Iran. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden government approves strikes against Iranian targets in Iraq and Syria: Report

<p>Hossein Salami, the chief commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Wednesday (Jan 31), that Tehran is not afraid of direct military confrontation with Washington.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that threats coming from the United States will not be left unanswered, further adding that Iran is not seeking war with the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We hear some threats from American officials about targeting Iran. We tell them that you tested us and we know each other. We do not leave any threat unanswered, and we do not look for war, but we are not afraid of it. This is the well-known truth," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-iran-us-direct-war-kataib-hezbollah-iraq-tensions-gaza-war-685333">Iran remains on high alert even as Kataib Hezbollah suspends military operations</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>His remarks came after US President Joe Biden's comments the day before, in which he stated&nbsp;that he had decided on a response to a drone attack that killed three US service members in Jordan. But even the Biden administration had stressed that it was not seeking a war with Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the official IRNA news agency, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said, "America must stop using the language of threat and projection and focus on a political solution."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Iran's response to threats is decisive and immediate," he added.</p>

<p>US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had also said on Monday that the nation would take "all necessary actions" to defend its troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/israel-hamas-war-in-gaza-collective-punishment-is-becoming-routine-685313">Israel-Hamas war: In Gaza, collective punishment is becoming routine</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | Will the UK recognise the Palestinian state?</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Jordan drone attack</strong></h2>

<p>The US claimed that its soldiers died in a deadly drone attack in Jordan by Iran-backed militants, but Tehran has denied any links to the attack on the US troops and said it was not seeking an "expansion" of conflict in the Middle East.</p>

<p>In the past few weeks, regional tensions have intensified in the West Asian region, especially since the Israel-Hamas war. It has also drawn in Iran-backed groups in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen.</p>

<p>The Islamic Republic has previously said it sees a "duty" to support what it calls "resistance groups" in the region but insists they are "independent" in decision and action.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. </strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hossein Salami, the chief commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Wednesday (Jan 31), that Tehran is not afraid of direct military confrontation with Washington.

Hossein Salami, the chief commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Wednesday (Jan 31), that Tehran is not afraid of direct military confrontation with Washington. He also said that threats coming from the United States will not be left unanswered, further adding that Iran is not seeking war with the US. "We hear some threats from American officials about targeting Iran. We tell them that you tested us and we know each other. We do not leave any threat unanswered, and we do not look for war, but we are not afraid of it. This is the well-known truth," he said. Also read: Iran remains on high alert even as Kataib Hezbollah suspends military operations His remarks came after US President Joe Biden's comments the day before, in which he stated that he had decided on a response to a drone attack that killed three US service members in Jordan. But even the Biden administration had stressed that it was not seeking a war with Iran. According to the official IRNA news agency, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said, "America must stop using the language of threat and projection and focus on a political solution." "Iran's response to threats is decisive and immediate," he added. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had also said on Monday that the nation would take "all necessary actions" to defend its troops. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: In Gaza, collective punishment is becoming routine Watch: Gravitas | Will the UK recognise the Palestinian state? × Jordan drone attack The US claimed that its soldiers died in a deadly drone attack in Jordan by Iran-backed militants, but Tehran has denied any links to the attack on the US troops and said it was not seeking an "expansion" of conflict in the Middle East. In the past few weeks, regional tensions have intensified in the West Asian region, especially since the Israel-Hamas war. It has also drawn in Iran-backed groups in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen. The Islamic Republic has previously said it sees a "duty" to support what it calls "resistance groups" in the region but insists they are "independent" in decision and action. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East Crisis: Iran's military chief says not afraid of war with US

Will the UK recognise the Palestinian state? UK'S Foreign Secretary David Cameron says that his govt is considering a proposal to formally recognise Palestine. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas | Will the UK recognise the Palestinian state?

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Jan 30) rejected reports of releasing "thousands" of Palestinian prisoners as part of any deal to halt fighting in the Gaza Strip, &nbsp; further stating that he will not accept any ceasefire deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an address at Eli settlement in the occupied West Bank, he said, "I would like to make it clear... We will not withdraw the IDF (army) from the Gaza Strip and we will not release thousands of terrorists. None of this will happen."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I hear sayings about all kinds of (hostages) deals so I want to clarify - we will not end this war short of achieving all of its objectives. That means eliminating Hamas, returning all of our hostages and ensuring that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jordan-drone-attack-biden-has-decided-on-response-doesnt-want-wider-war-in-middle-east-685262">Jordan drone attack: Biden has decided on response, doesn't want wider war in Middle East</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Netanyahu claimed that Israel would not settle for anything less than "absolute victory". The Israeli prime minister said that he and the fighters are committed to winning the battle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes amid reports that mediator Qatar&nbsp;will send a framework to halt the Gaza fighting and hostage release to Hamas.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Hamas also said on Tuesday that it had received a new proposal for the ceasefire and release of hostages in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas said that the deal was presented by mediators after talks with Israel and the militant group was studying the terms.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cctv-footage-shows-how-undercover-israeli-troops-raided-west-bank-hospital-killing-three-palestinians-685179">CCTV footage shows undercover Israeli troops raiding West Bank hospital, killing three Palestinians</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to a senior Hamas official, the proposal included a three-stage truce. First, the group would release the remaining civilians among the prisoners it abducted on October 7, then the bodies of hostages that were killed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the United States condemned Monday's "incendiary" comments by far-right Israeli ministers during a rally calling for the re-establishment of Jewish settlements in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>White House spokesman John Kirby said of the comments, "Irresponsible, reckless, incendiary I go so far as to say." Kirby added that it involved only "a couple" of ministers in Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US bases attacked in Jordan: Officials say drone 'mix-up' led to the attack</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Israel floods Hamas attack tunnels</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Israel's army said on Tuesday that it was flooding Hamas's attack tunnels amid intense fighting in Gaza. The Israeli military said it had adopted the tactic of channelling water into Hamas's vast underground network of tunnels that it has dubbed "the Gaza metro".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is part of a range of tools deployed by the IDF (Israeli army) to neutralise the threat of Hamas's subterranean network of tunnels," it said, confirming media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Jan 30) rejected reports of releasing "thousands" of Palestinian prisoners as part of any deal to halt fighting in the Gaza Strip, further stating that he will not accept any ceasefire deal.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Jan 30) rejected reports of releasing "thousands" of Palestinian prisoners as part of any deal to halt fighting in the Gaza Strip, further stating that he will not accept any ceasefire deal. In an address at Eli settlement in the occupied West Bank, he said, "I would like to make it clear... We will not withdraw the IDF (army) from the Gaza Strip and we will not release thousands of terrorists. None of this will happen." "I hear sayings about all kinds of (hostages) deals so I want to clarify - we will not end this war short of achieving all of its objectives. That means eliminating Hamas, returning all of our hostages and ensuring that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel," he added. Also read: Jordan drone attack: Biden has decided on response, doesn't want wider war in Middle East Netanyahu claimed that Israel would not settle for anything less than "absolute victory". The Israeli prime minister said that he and the fighters are committed to winning the battle. This comes amid reports that mediator Qatar will send a framework to halt the Gaza fighting and hostage release to Hamas. On the other hand, Hamas also said on Tuesday that it had received a new proposal for the ceasefire and release of hostages in Gaza. Hamas said that the deal was presented by mediators after talks with Israel and the militant group was studying the terms. Also read: CCTV footage shows undercover Israeli troops raiding West Bank hospital, killing three Palestinians According to a senior Hamas official, the proposal included a three-stage truce. First, the group would release the remaining civilians among the prisoners it abducted on October 7, then the bodies of hostages that were killed. Meanwhile, the United States condemned Monday's "incendiary" comments by far-right Israeli ministers during a rally calling for the re-establishment of Jewish settlements in the Gaza Strip. White House spokesman John Kirby said of the comments, "Irresponsible, reckless, incendiary I go so far as to say." Kirby added that it involved only "a couple" of ministers in Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet. Watch: US bases attacked in Jordan: Officials say drone 'mix-up' led to the attack × Israel floods Hamas attack tunnels Meanwhile, Israel's army said on Tuesday that it was flooding Hamas's attack tunnels amid intense fighting in Gaza. The Israeli military said it had adopted the tactic of channelling water into Hamas's vast underground network of tunnels that it has dubbed "the Gaza metro". "It is part of a range of tools deployed by the IDF (Israeli army) to neutralise the threat of Hamas's subterranean network of tunnels," it said, confirming media reports. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu rejects reports of Gaza truce, rules out freeing 'thousands of terrorists'

<p>On Sunday (Jan 28), three members of the United States troops were killed in a drone attack in Jordan. The US has blamed Iran-backed Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah for the attack that killed specialists Kennedy Ladon Sanders, 24, Breonna Alexsondria Moffett, 23, and Sergeant William Jerome Rivers, 46 and wounded dozens more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to the press on Monday (Jan 29), Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh blamed Iran for enabling groups to attack the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Singh said,&nbsp;"In terms of, attribution for the attack, we know this is an IRGC-backed militia. It has the footprints of Kataib Hezbollah. But we are not making a final assessment on that. Our teams here are continuing to do the analysis, but we know that Iran is behind it. And, certainly, as we've said before, here in this briefing room, Iran continues to arm and equip these groups to launch these attacks."</p>

<p>But, who is Kataib Hezbollah? Here's everything we know.</p>

<h2><strong>Kataib Hezbollah — Establishment and more</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>As per Reuters, the militant group Kataib Hezbollah was founded in the aftermath of the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Founded in 2007, KH seeks to establish an Iran-aligned government in Iraq, expel US and coalition forces from the country, and advance Iranian interests throughout the Middle East," states Counter Terrorism Guide.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-william-rivers-kennedy-sanders-and-breonna-moffett-the-us-soldiers-killed-in-jordan-685084">Who are William Rivers, Kennedy Sanders and Breonna Moffett - the US soldiers killed in Jordan?</a></strong></p>

<p>It is one of the elite Iraqi armed factions closest to Iran. While it is primarily based in Iraq and Syria; as per the US National Counterterrorism Center, it also possibly operates in Bahrain, Iran, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p>Soon after it was founded, the group developed a reputation for its deadly attacks against both military and diplomatic targets. In the 2000s, it started carrying out the attacks using a mixture of sniper, rocket and mortar attacks and even roadside bombs.</p>

<h2><strong>Kataib Hezbollah — Leader</strong></h2>

<p>The group was led by dual Iraqi-Iranian citizen, Jamal Jaafar Ibrahimi alias Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who was killed in 2020 by a US drone strike. Iranian Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani was also killed in the strike at Baghdad's international airport. Ibrahimi&nbsp;was allegedly the mastermind behind the US and French embassy bombings in Kuwait in 1983 and the assassination attempt on Kuwait’s emir in 1985.</p>

<p>As per UK-based news agency Reuters, the shadowy group has no announced leadership structure. However, quoting Iraqi officials and members of the group, the news agency reports that the group is believed to have thousands of fighters and an arsenal of drones, rockets and short-range ballistic missiles.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Three US soldiers killed, 34 injured in drone strike in Jordan</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-crisis-three-us-soldiers-killed-34-injured-in-drone-strike-in-jordan-684934/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>However, as per National Counterterrorism Center, Kataib Hezbollah's current overall leader is Ahmad al-Hamidawi. He was named a Specially Designated Global Terrorist in February 2020.</p>

<h2><strong>Kataib Hezbollah — Ideology</strong></h2>

<p>Kataib Hezbollah, as per reports is the most powerful armed faction in the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, and also the "most secretive" and elite of Iraq's predominantly Shi'ite militias.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the US Department of State, Kataib Hezbollah is "a radical Shia Islamist group with an anti-Western establishment and jihadist ideology."</p>

<p>On its website, the group states that its first goal "was and still remains: thwarting the American project in the region, defeat of the occupation, and expelling them from Iraq, broken and humbled…. As for our jihadi pillars, there are four. Firstly, waging jihad against the occupation until the last American is expelled from Iraq."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-vows-action-after-jordan-attack-releases-names-of-3-us-soldiers-killed-684938">Pentagon vows action after Jordan attack, releases names of 3 soldiers killed as Iran denies involvement</a></strong></p>

<p>It is an umbrella group of hardline Shi'ite armed groups that claimed more than 150 attacks on US forces since the start of the Gaza war. The militant group was designated as a foreign terrorist organisation in July 2009 by the United States.</p>

<p>The group reportedly has a transnational Shi'ite ideology and views the borders between Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon as Western constructs. It also considers US troops in Iraq as foreign occupiers and has even called for their forceful expulsion.</p>

<p>Kataib Hezbollah is known to have fought alongside other Shi'ite militias against mostly Sunni rebels during Syria's civil war. Ever since that, it has continued to operate in Syria.</p>

<p>Kataib Hezbollah, is also known to be a prominent militia within Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). Initially established in 2014 to combat the Islamic State, the PMF has evolved into an officially recognised security force with fighters receiving state salaries. Notably, Kataib Hezbollah members, some of whom are designated as terrorists by the US, hold influential positions in the PMF, reports Reuters.</p>

<p>Despite being technically under the command of Iraq's prime minister as part of the PMF, Kataib Hezbollah often operates independently, challenging and defying government directives to cease attacks on US forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to its military activities, Kataib Hezbollah is believed to have ventured into the political arena. Although the group neither confirms nor denies these political links publicly, it is widely perceived to have formed a political party that participated in the 2021 elections. Remarkably, the group secured several seats in the Iraqi parliament, signalling its expanding influence beyond the realm of armed operations.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


On Sunday (Jan 28), three members of the United States troops were killed in a drone attack in Jordan. The US has blamed Iran-backed Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah for the attack that killed specialists Kennedy Ladon Sanders, 24, Breonna Alexsondria Moffett, 23, and Sergeant William Jerome Rivers, 46 and wounded dozens more.

On Sunday (Jan 28), three members of the United States troops were killed in a drone attack in Jordan. The US has blamed Iran-backed Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah for the attack that killed specialists Kennedy Ladon Sanders, 24, Breonna Alexsondria Moffett, 23, and Sergeant William Jerome Rivers, 46 and wounded dozens more. Speaking to the press on Monday (Jan 29), Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh blamed Iran for enabling groups to attack the United States. Singh said, "In terms of, attribution for the attack, we know this is an IRGC-backed militia. It has the footprints of Kataib Hezbollah. But we are not making a final assessment on that. Our teams here are continuing to do the analysis, but we know that Iran is behind it. And, certainly, as we've said before, here in this briefing room, Iran continues to arm and equip these groups to launch these attacks." But, who is Kataib Hezbollah? Here's everything we know. Kataib Hezbollah — Establishment and more As per Reuters, the militant group Kataib Hezbollah was founded in the aftermath of the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq. "Founded in 2007, KH seeks to establish an Iran-aligned government in Iraq, expel US and coalition forces from the country, and advance Iranian interests throughout the Middle East," states Counter Terrorism Guide. Also read | Who are William Rivers, Kennedy Sanders and Breonna Moffett - the US soldiers killed in Jordan? It is one of the elite Iraqi armed factions closest to Iran. While it is primarily based in Iraq and Syria; as per the US National Counterterrorism Center, it also possibly operates in Bahrain, Iran, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia. Soon after it was founded, the group developed a reputation for its deadly attacks against both military and diplomatic targets. In the 2000s, it started carrying out the attacks using a mixture of sniper, rocket and mortar attacks and even roadside bombs. Kataib Hezbollah — Leader The group was led by dual Iraqi-Iranian citizen, Jamal Jaafar Ibrahimi alias Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who was killed in 2020 by a US drone strike. Iranian Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani was also killed in the strike at Baghdad's international airport. Ibrahimi was allegedly the mastermind behind the US and French embassy bombings in Kuwait in 1983 and the assassination attempt on Kuwait’s emir in 1985. As per UK-based news agency Reuters, the shadowy group has no announced leadership structure. However, quoting Iraqi officials and members of the group, the news agency reports that the group is believed to have thousands of fighters and an arsenal of drones, rockets and short-range ballistic missiles. Watch | Three US soldiers killed, 34 injured in drone strike in Jordan However, as per National Counterterrorism Center, Kataib Hezbollah's current overall leader is Ahmad al-Hamidawi. He was named a Specially Designated Global Terrorist in February 2020. Kataib Hezbollah — Ideology Kataib Hezbollah, as per reports is the most powerful armed faction in the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, and also the "most secretive" and elite of Iraq's predominantly Shi'ite militias. According to the US Department of State, Kataib Hezbollah is "a radical Shia Islamist group with an anti-Western establishment and jihadist ideology." On its website, the group states that its first goal "was and still remains: thwarting the American project in the region, defeat of the occupation, and expelling them from Iraq, broken and humbled…. As for our jihadi pillars, there are four. Firstly, waging jihad against the occupation until the last American is expelled from Iraq." Also read | Pentagon vows action after Jordan attack, releases names of 3 soldiers killed as Iran denies involvement It is an umbrella group of hardline Shi'ite armed groups that claimed more than 150 attacks on US forces since the start of the Gaza war. The militant group was designated as a foreign terrorist organisation in July 2009 by the United States. The group reportedly has a transnational Shi'ite ideology and views the borders between Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon as Western constructs. It also considers US troops in Iraq as foreign occupiers and has even called for their forceful expulsion. Kataib Hezbollah is known to have fought alongside other Shi'ite militias against mostly Sunni rebels during Syria's civil war. Ever since that, it has continued to operate in Syria. Kataib Hezbollah, is also known to be a prominent militia within Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). Initially established in 2014 to combat the Islamic State, the PMF has evolved into an officially recognised security force with fighters receiving state salaries. Notably, Kataib Hezbollah members, some of whom are designated as terrorists by the US, hold influential positions in the PMF, reports Reuters. Despite being technically under the command of Iraq's prime minister as part of the PMF, Kataib Hezbollah often operates independently, challenging and defying government directives to cease attacks on US forces. In addition to its military activities, Kataib Hezbollah is believed to have ventured into the political arena. Although the group neither confirms nor denies these political links publicly, it is widely perceived to have formed a political party that participated in the 2021 elections. Remarkably, the group secured several seats in the Iraqi parliament, signalling its expanding influence beyond the realm of armed operations. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Who is Kataib Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group allegedly behind strike on US troops in Jordan?