Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, Palestinian Christians held a sombre Christmas vigil in the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Saturday (Dec 23) where they once believed Jesus was born. This comes as Palestinians in the biblical place of Jesus Christ’s birth have this year decided to forego Christmas celebrations in solidarity with the Gazans as the war rages on.&nbsp;

The decision to tone down the Christmas festivities amid the ongoing war was taken last month in solidarity with Palestinians.&nbsp;

<h2>‘We feel sad’</h2>

The normally bustling Bethlehem on Christmas Eve was compared to a ghost town, on Sunday (Dec 24) as festive lights and Christmas tree decorated the city’s Manger Square were missing and so were the thousands of tourists who gather each year to mark the holiday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-didnt-talk-about-ceasefire-during-private-conversation-with-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-673116">Biden says didn’t talk about ceasefire during private conversation with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu</a>

Typically, pilgrims go to the reputed location of that stable in Bethlehem’s Byzantine-era Church of the Nativity, where most Christmases are joyful displays of lights and trees in Manger Square. Instead, the city marked Christmas with candle-lit hymns and prayers for peace in Gaza.

This year a Nativity scene in Manger Square showed a baby Jesus wrapped in a white shroud, reminiscent of the hundreds of children killed in the fighting in Gaza. The scene was also surrounded by barbed wire, the grey rubble in contrast to the joyous lights and bursts of colour that normally fill the square during Christmas.

“This Christmas comes to Bethlehem in a different shape. Nowadays Bethlehem, as any other Palestinian city, is in mourning. We feel sad,” said town mayor Hanna Hanania, lighting a candle in Manger Square.

“This year, without the Christmas tree and without lights, there’s just darkness,” said Brother John Vinh, a Franciscan monk from Vietnam who has lived in Jerusalem for six years, as quoted by the Associated Press.&nbsp;

He also spoke about always coming to Bethlehem to mark Christmas, but this year was especially sobering.&nbsp;

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The city was almost deserted, with few worshippers around and no Christmas tree as the church leaders decided to forego “any unnecessarily festive” celebrations, in solidarity with Gazans.&nbsp;

<h2>People of&nbsp;Bethlehem&nbsp;</h2>

Christians make up around two per cent of the population across Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, according to Protecting Holy Land Christians, a campaign organised by the Heads of Churches in Jerusalem, and a few members from Gaza.

The West Bank has also witnessed a surge in violence since the beginning of the war on October 7 with at least 300 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks, according to the Palestinian health ministry.&nbsp;

“My son asked me why there’s no Christmas tree this year, I don’t know how to explain it,” Ali Thabet who lives with his family in Al Shawawra, a Palestinian village near Bethlehem tells CNN.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bethlehem-the-birthplace-of-jesus-cancels-christmas-in-solidarity-with-gaza-668430">Israel-Hamas war: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, cancels Christmas in solidarity with Gaza</a>

He told the American media outlet that they would visit Bethlehem each Christmas “because our relationship with our Christian brothers is a strong relationship.”&nbsp;

He added, “We join them in their celebrations, and they also join us in our celebrations. But this year’s holiday season is very bad.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, Palestinian Christians held a sombre Christmas vigil in the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Saturday (Dec 23) where they once believed Jesus was born.

Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, Palestinian Christians held a sombre Christmas vigil in the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Saturday (Dec 23) where they once believed Jesus was born. This comes as Palestinians in the biblical place of Jesus Christ’s birth have this year decided to forego Christmas celebrations in solidarity with the Gazans as the war rages on. The decision to tone down the Christmas festivities amid the ongoing war was taken last month in solidarity with Palestinians. ‘We feel sad’ The normally bustling Bethlehem on Christmas Eve was compared to a ghost town, on Sunday (Dec 24) as festive lights and Christmas tree decorated the city’s Manger Square were missing and so were the thousands of tourists who gather each year to mark the holiday. ALSO READ | Biden says didn’t talk about ceasefire during private conversation with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu Typically, pilgrims go to the reputed location of that stable in Bethlehem’s Byzantine-era Church of the Nativity, where most Christmases are joyful displays of lights and trees in Manger Square. Instead, the city marked Christmas with candle-lit hymns and prayers for peace in Gaza. This year a Nativity scene in Manger Square showed a baby Jesus wrapped in a white shroud, reminiscent of the hundreds of children killed in the fighting in Gaza. The scene was also surrounded by barbed wire, the grey rubble in contrast to the joyous lights and bursts of colour that normally fill the square during Christmas. “This Christmas comes to Bethlehem in a different shape. Nowadays Bethlehem, as any other Palestinian city, is in mourning. We feel sad,” said town mayor Hanna Hanania, lighting a candle in Manger Square. “This year, without the Christmas tree and without lights, there’s just darkness,” said Brother John Vinh, a Franciscan monk from Vietnam who has lived in Jerusalem for six years, as quoted by the Associated Press. He also spoke about always coming to Bethlehem to mark Christmas, but this year was especially sobering. ALSO READ | Explained | Amid Israel-Hamas war, head rolls in turmoil at top US universities over antisemitism row The city was almost deserted, with few worshippers around and no Christmas tree as the church leaders decided to forego “any unnecessarily festive” celebrations, in solidarity with Gazans. People of Bethlehem Christians make up around two per cent of the population across Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, according to Protecting Holy Land Christians, a campaign organised by the Heads of Churches in Jerusalem, and a few members from Gaza. The West Bank has also witnessed a surge in violence since the beginning of the war on October 7 with at least 300 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks, according to the Palestinian health ministry. “My son asked me why there’s no Christmas tree this year, I don’t know how to explain it,” Ali Thabet who lives with his family in Al Shawawra, a Palestinian village near Bethlehem tells CNN. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, cancels Christmas in solidarity with Gaza He told the American media outlet that they would visit Bethlehem each Christmas “because our relationship with our Christian brothers is a strong relationship.” He added, “We join them in their celebrations, and they also join us in our celebrations. But this year’s holiday season is very bad.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war

Tensions in the Red Sea are indeed simmering an Indian-flagged crude oil tanker has been attacked by Houthi militants according to the US military. The US Naval Forces Central Command has said that no injuries have been reported from the strike. However the Indian media reports indicate that the Indian-flagged vessel was not hit and that the Drone strike was a near miss.

Israel-Hamas War | Indian tanker reportedly attacked by drone fired by Houthi militants

Israel's main ally the US has kept up its support while expressing concerns over the growing casualty toll and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. However, despite a spot in casualties on the Israeli side too prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to fight until Israel reaches its goals.

Israeli PM Netanyahu: War exacts a very heavy price from us but we have no choice

The Israel-Hamas War seeing no signs of stopping while another border is showing signs of concern. Lebanon-based Hezbollah continues to exert pressure by supporting the Hamas in Gaza and is also taking armed action on the ground.

Israel-Hamas war | Reports: Israel wanted to pre-emptively strike Lebanon-based Hezbollah

Israel-Hamas War | Unclaimed missile strike hit MV Chem Pluto

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Indian-flagged crude oil tanker has been attacked by Houthi militants according to the US military.

Indian tanker reportedly attacked by drone fired by Houthi militants

Israel-Hamas war: US Vs Houthi militants in Red Sea

Israel-Hamas war: Indian flagged oil tanker attacked in Red Sea

Israel's main Ally the US has kept up its support while expressing concerns over the growing casualty toll and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. US President Joe Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pressing him to protect civilian lives in Gaza. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hamas war: President Biden presses PM Netanyahu to protect civilians in Gaza

Iran has rejected all US allegations of its involvement in planning attacks on Commercial vessels. The attacks were carried out by Yemen's Houthis in the Red Sea as per the media reports. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister kept on emphasizing Houthi's Independent actions and capabilities of carrying out the attacks.

Israel-Hamas War | US: Iran's intelligence critical for Houthi attacks

Yemen’s Houthi rebels attacked an Indian-flagged crude oil tanker with a drone in the Red Sea, the US military reported Sunday morning (Dec 24).

M/V Saibaba, a Gabon-owned tanker, reported no injuries after the attack but sent out an SOS call to a US warship operating in its vicinity.

The vessel, which is managed by an Indian company, was now on its way back to India. Crew members on the ship, all Indians, are reportedly safe.

The attack comes a day after another oil tanker came under drone attack off the Indian coast. The US on Sunday said the attack was carried out by Iran.

In total, two ships were targeted by Iranian-backed militants in the recent incident.

One of them, a Norwegian-flagged and owned chemical tanker named M/V Blaamanen reported a near miss of a Houthi drone, the US military said.

The second one was M/V Saibaba, which was hit by the drone.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pentagon-accuses-iran-for-drone-attack-on-israel-affiliated-chemical-tanker-off-indian-coast-672986">Also read:&nbsp;US Pentagon accuses Iran for drone attack on `Israel-affiliated` chemical tanker off Indian Coast</a>

"A second vessel, the M/V SAIBABA, a Gabon-owned, Indian-flagged crude oil tanker, reported that it was hit by a one-way attack drone with no injuries reported. The USS LABOON (DDG 58) responded to the distress calls from these attacks," the US military said.

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On December 23 two Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles were fired into international shipping lanes in the Southern Red Sea from Houthi controlled areas of Yemen. No ships reported being impacted by the ballistic missiles. 
 
Between 3 and 8 p.m. (Sanaa time), the USS LABOON (DDG… <a href="https://t.co/jcBisbXBaS">pic.twitter.com/jcBisbXBaS</a>
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The Yemen-based militants also reportedly tried to attack a US warship operating in the Red Sea area.

Watch:&nbsp;Drone attack in Indian Ocean: Indian Coast Guard deploys ship for help

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The US Central Command said a US Navy destroyer patrolling in the Red Sea knocked down four attack drones before they could strike the warship.

The USS Laboon "shot down four unmanned aerial drones originating from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen that were inbound toward the American vessel," Centcom said in a post on X (formerly Twitter), adding there were "no injuries or damage".

(With inputs from agencies)

Yemen’s Houthi rebels attacked an Indian-flagged crude oil tanker with a drone in the Red Sea, the US military reported Sunday morning (Dec 24). M/V Saibaba, a Gabon-owned tanker, reported no injuries after the attack but sent out an SOS call to a US warship operating in its vicinity.

Yemen’s Houthi rebels attacked an Indian-flagged crude oil tanker with a drone in the Red Sea, the US military reported Sunday morning (Dec 24). M/V Saibaba, a Gabon-owned tanker, reported no injuries after the attack but sent out an SOS call to a US warship operating in its vicinity. The vessel, which is managed by an Indian company, was now on its way back to India. Crew members on the ship, all Indians, are reportedly safe. The attack comes a day after another oil tanker came under drone attack off the Indian coast. The US on Sunday said the attack was carried out by Iran. In total, two ships were targeted by Iranian-backed militants in the recent incident. One of them, a Norwegian-flagged and owned chemical tanker named M/V Blaamanen reported a near miss of a Houthi drone, the US military said. The second one was M/V Saibaba, which was hit by the drone. Also read: US Pentagon accuses Iran for drone attack on `Israel-affiliated` chemical tanker off Indian Coast "A second vessel, the M/V SAIBABA, a Gabon-owned, Indian-flagged crude oil tanker, reported that it was hit by a one-way attack drone with no injuries reported. The USS LABOON (DDG 58) responded to the distress calls from these attacks," the US military said. On December 23 two Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles were fired into international shipping lanes in the Southern Red Sea from Houthi controlled areas of Yemen. No ships reported being impacted by the ballistic missiles. Between 3 and 8 p.m. (Sanaa time), the USS LABOON (DDG… pic.twitter.com/jcBisbXBaS — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) December 24, 2023 × The Yemen-based militants also reportedly tried to attack a US warship operating in the Red Sea area. Watch: Drone attack in Indian Ocean: Indian Coast Guard deploys ship for help × The US Central Command said a US Navy destroyer patrolling in the Red Sea knocked down four attack drones before they could strike the warship. The USS Laboon "shot down four unmanned aerial drones originating from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen that were inbound toward the American vessel," Centcom said in a post on X (formerly Twitter), adding there were "no injuries or damage". (With inputs from agencies)

Houthis strike Indian-flagged oil tanker with drone in Red Sea: US military

Gaza officials on Saturday (Dec 23) said that the Israeli strikes had claimed the lives of more than 200 people in 24 hours amidst an upsurge in attacks in the West Bank.

Israel continued with its counter-offensive aiming at the southern Gaza Strip, with clouds of grey and black smoke rising over Khan Yunis city, as per news agency AFP reports.

In the past 24 hours, at least 201 deaths were reported by the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, taking the toll to 20,258 since the war broke out, and most of the victims were women and children as per claims by Hamas.

The fighting between the two sides began when the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, killing about 1,140 Israelis, mostly civilians.

Israel, in response, launched retaliatory attacks vowing to destroy the Palestinian militant group.

Saturday's strikes came after the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution demanding "immediate, safe and unhindered" deliveries of life-saving aid to Gaza "at scale".&nbsp;

It also called for the creation of "conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities", but did not seek an immediate end to combat.

The Gaza health ministry said dozens of Palestinians were killed this week and publicly "executed" in northern Gaza.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-warring-parties-commit-to-new-ceasefire-agree-to-un-led-peace-process-672932">Yemen's warring parties commit to new ceasefire, agree to UN-led peace process</a>

The Israeli "massacre resulted in the death of dozens" of people in Jabalia camp and Jabalia town, ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said.

<h2>Five soldiers killed in Gaza since Friday&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, the Israeli military said that five of its soldiers lost their lives in the fighting since Friday (Dec 22).

The army said in a statement that four of its soldiers were killed on Friday, whereas a fifth was killed on Saturday in the Palestinian territory's north.

This brought the number of troops killed inside the Gaza Strip to 144 since the start of Israel's large-scale ground offensive on October 27.

<h2>UN resolution urges more aid</h2>

On the other hand, members of the UN Security Council, late on Friday passed a resolution demanding "immediate, safe and unhindered" deliveries of life-saving aid be rushed to Gaza "at scale".

Israel has said Gaza crossings under its control were closed for aid deliveries on Saturday&nbsp;"in line with the agreement reached with the US, Egypt and the UN", leaving only the Rafah crossing on the Egyptian border open.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Gaza officials on Saturday (Dec 23) said that the Israeli strikes had claimed the lives of more than 200 people in 24 hours amidst an upsurge in attacks in the West Bank.

Gaza officials on Saturday (Dec 23) said that the Israeli strikes had claimed the lives of more than 200 people in 24 hours amidst an upsurge in attacks in the West Bank. Israel continued with its counter-offensive aiming at the southern Gaza Strip, with clouds of grey and black smoke rising over Khan Yunis city, as per news agency AFP reports. In the past 24 hours, at least 201 deaths were reported by the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, taking the toll to 20,258 since the war broke out, and most of the victims were women and children as per claims by Hamas. The fighting between the two sides began when the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, killing about 1,140 Israelis, mostly civilians. Israel, in response, launched retaliatory attacks vowing to destroy the Palestinian militant group. Saturday's strikes came after the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution demanding "immediate, safe and unhindered" deliveries of life-saving aid to Gaza "at scale". It also called for the creation of "conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities", but did not seek an immediate end to combat. The Gaza health ministry said dozens of Palestinians were killed this week and publicly "executed" in northern Gaza. Also read: Yemen's warring parties commit to new ceasefire, agree to UN-led peace process The Israeli "massacre resulted in the death of dozens" of people in Jabalia camp and Jabalia town, ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said. Five soldiers killed in Gaza since Friday Meanwhile, the Israeli military said that five of its soldiers lost their lives in the fighting since Friday (Dec 22). The army said in a statement that four of its soldiers were killed on Friday, whereas a fifth was killed on Saturday in the Palestinian territory's north. This brought the number of troops killed inside the Gaza Strip to 144 since the start of Israel's large-scale ground offensive on October 27. UN resolution urges more aid On the other hand, members of the UN Security Council, late on Friday passed a resolution demanding "immediate, safe and unhindered" deliveries of life-saving aid be rushed to Gaza "at scale". Israel has said Gaza crossings under its control were closed for aid deliveries on Saturday "in line with the agreement reached with the US, Egypt and the UN", leaving only the Rafah crossing on the Egyptian border open. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israeli strikes on Gaza killed 200 in 24 hours, claims Hamas

The Red Sea Alliance, a U.S.-initiated naval coalition aimed at securing critical maritime routes in the Red Sea, faces significant challenges. With diverse responses from over 38 invited countries and key West Asian players hesitant to join, the coalition's unity and effectiveness are in question. The alliance, formed to counter maritime aggression by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, grapples with national interests, regional sensitivities, and geopolitical complexities.

Red Sea attacks: Houthi attacks pose a significant threat to the global economy

The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution on the Gaza war but has stopped short of calling for a ceasefire. The resolution 'demands' that all sides in the war "allow and facilitate the use of all... routes to and throughout the entire Gaza Strip, including border crossings... for the provision of humanitarian assistance."

The resolution also requests the appointment of a UN humanitarian coordinator who will oversee and verify aid to Gaza coming from a third country.

AFP reported that an earlier text of the resolution said that in order for aid mechanism to accelerate, the function of aid delivery should be "exclusively" under UN control.&nbsp;

The resolution now states that delivery of relief&nbsp;material will be managed consulting "all relevant parties". This is likely to practically mean that Israel would have operational oversight of relief material delivery.

Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Growing aggression of Houthis in Red Sea, attacks disrupt shipping | WION Dispatch

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The UNSC is under mounting criticism from across the world that it is not doing enough to improve situation with respect to the war. Israel, backed by the United States, continues to oppose the term 'ceasefire'. The US has twice used its veto to block resolutions.

The United States and Russia both are permanent members of the UNSC and a veto from either of them would have meant that the resolution wouldn't pass.

<h2>The reactions</h2>

USA's Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield welcomed the resolution and said that it was "a strong step forward".

"This council provided a glimmer of hope among a sea of suffering," she said.

Diplomatic tussle at the UN headquarters caused postponement of the vote several times.

Russia called the text of resolution "toothless" and hit out at the United States.

"...they have resorted to their favorite tactic... of twisting of arms," said Russian ambassador to the UN Vasily Nebenzya.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-starvation-used-as-a-weapon-of-war-in-gaza-strip-says-hrw-670872">Israel-Hamas war: Starvation used as a weapon of war in Gaza Strip, says HRW</a>

The United Arab Emirates sponsored the resolution. Several amendments were made to it to seek compromise between parties.&nbsp;UAE's ambassador to the UN said that the resolution " responds with action to the dire humanitarian situation."

We know this is not a perfect text... We will never tire of calling for a humanitarian cease-fire," the ambassador said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oversight-board-criticises-meta-for-removing-two-israel-hamas-war-videos-671819">Oversight Board criticises Meta for removing two Israel-Hamas war videos</a>

Hamas fighters crossed border from Gaza Strip on October 7 and mounted attack in southern Israel that caused 1200 death, as per Israeli estimates. Hamas fighters also took more than 200 hostages. Israel has since responded with a massive military action that has seen it carry out hundreds of air attacks on the Palestinian enclave. A ground assault has also been launched with tanks and troops entering Gaza Strip. The war has caused immense suffering for civilians in Gaza and as per Hamas-run health ministry, the death toll in the enclave has crossed the 20,000 mark.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution on the Gaza war but has stopped short of calling for a ceasefire. The resolution 'demands' that all sides in the war "allow and facilitate the use of all.

The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution on the Gaza war but has stopped short of calling for a ceasefire. The resolution 'demands' that all sides in the war "allow and facilitate the use of all... routes to and throughout the entire Gaza Strip, including border crossings... for the provision of humanitarian assistance." The resolution also requests the appointment of a UN humanitarian coordinator who will oversee and verify aid to Gaza coming from a third country. AFP reported that an earlier text of the resolution said that in order for aid mechanism to accelerate, the function of aid delivery should be "exclusively" under UN control. The resolution now states that delivery of relief material will be managed consulting "all relevant parties". This is likely to practically mean that Israel would have operational oversight of relief material delivery. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Growing aggression of Houthis in Red Sea, attacks disrupt shipping | WION Dispatch × The UNSC is under mounting criticism from across the world that it is not doing enough to improve situation with respect to the war. Israel, backed by the United States, continues to oppose the term 'ceasefire'. The US has twice used its veto to block resolutions. The United States and Russia both are permanent members of the UNSC and a veto from either of them would have meant that the resolution wouldn't pass. The reactions USA's Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield welcomed the resolution and said that it was "a strong step forward". "This council provided a glimmer of hope among a sea of suffering," she said. Diplomatic tussle at the UN headquarters caused postponement of the vote several times. Russia called the text of resolution "toothless" and hit out at the United States. "...they have resorted to their favorite tactic... of twisting of arms," said Russian ambassador to the UN Vasily Nebenzya. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Starvation used as a weapon of war in Gaza Strip, says HRW The United Arab Emirates sponsored the resolution. Several amendments were made to it to seek compromise between parties. UAE's ambassador to the UN said that the resolution " responds with action to the dire humanitarian situation." We know this is not a perfect text... We will never tire of calling for a humanitarian cease-fire," the ambassador said. Also Read | Oversight Board criticises Meta for removing two Israel-Hamas war videos Hamas fighters crossed border from Gaza Strip on October 7 and mounted attack in southern Israel that caused 1200 death, as per Israeli estimates. Hamas fighters also took more than 200 hostages. Israel has since responded with a massive military action that has seen it carry out hundreds of air attacks on the Palestinian enclave. A ground assault has also been launched with tanks and troops entering Gaza Strip. The war has caused immense suffering for civilians in Gaza and as per Hamas-run health ministry, the death toll in the enclave has crossed the 20,000 mark. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: UNSC passes Gaza resolution, but stops short of calling 'ceasefire'

An unclaimed missile strike has resulted in a fire on board a merchant ship named MV Chem Pluto that reportedly was headed towards Israel in The Indian Ocean. The vessel is Affiliated with Israel and the Indian Coast Guard has been dispatched with a warship for immediate assistance to all people on board.

Drone attack in Indian Ocean: Indian Coast Guard deploys ship for help

Yemeni citizens took to the streets again protesting Israel's endless military operations in Gaza that have triggered a dire humanitarian crisis in The Enclave. Thousands protested in solidarity with Gazans in Yemen's capital city of Sanaa. Watch this interview with John Erath who is the senior policy director of Center for Arms Control.

Israel-Hamas war: Yemen's Houthi group warns US

Yemeni citizens took to the streets again protesting Israel's endless military operations in Gaza that have triggered a dire humanitarian crisis in The Enclave. Thousands protested in solidarity with Gazans in Yemen's capital city of Sanaa.

Israel-Hamas war: Thousands chant pro-Palestine slogans in Yemen

The UNSC Gaza aid resolution aims to boost humanitarian aid to Gaza. The United Nations Security Council on Friday approved a toned-down bid to boost humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and called for urgent steps "to create the conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities" after a week of vote delays and intense negotiations to avoid a veto by the United States. Watch to know more!

UNSC Gaza Aid Resolution: US abstains after days of negotiations

The Suez Canal is the shortest sea route between Asia and Europe. The alternate route around Africa adds 9 days and 5149km to the journey. The Suez Canal opened in 1869 as a life-saver for the shipping industry. The canal soon found itself trapped in wars and political conflicts. On Gravitas Plus we bring you the story of the Suez Canal.

Gravitas Plus | Suez Canal: Critical oil route caught in Gaza crossfire

The US has accused Iran of aiding Houthi Pirates. Iran was "deeply involved" in planning operations against commercial vessels in the Red Sea and its intelligence was critical to enable Yemen's Houthi movement to target ships, the White House said on Friday.

Israel-Hamas war: US accuses Iran of aiding Houthi pirates in the Red Sea

On the ground, Israel's offensive in the south of Gaza is expanding. The humanitarian situation has been worsening despite the UNSC resolution. This has led to Aid delivery being hampered in the besieged strip. Watch for more updates.

Israel-Hamas war: Attack on Nuseirat refugee camp on Saturday

An unclaimed missile strike has resulted in a fire on board a merchant ship that reportedly was headed towards Israel in The Indian Ocean. The vessel is Affiliated with Israel and the Indian Coast Guard has been dispatched with a warship for immediate assistance to all people on board.

Israel-affiliated ship attacked in the Indian Ocean

The Israel-Hamas war will soon enter its third month, and there are fears that this ongoing conflict might spill over to the rest of the Middle East. The Iran-aligned Houthis of Yemen have been playing an escalating role in the war, attacking commercial ships at the southern end of the Red Sea, and also firing missiles at Israel.

The Israel-Hamas war will soon enter its third month, and there are fears that this ongoing conflict might spill over to the rest of the Middle East. The Iran-aligned Houthis of Yemen have been playing an escalating role in the war, attacking commercial ships at the southern end of the Red Sea, and also firing missiles at Israel. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Wednesday (Dec 20), the attacks have raised the spectre of another bout of disruption to international commerce which was previously seen during the Covid pandemic. A United States-led international force has been dispatched to patrol waters near Yemen. The attacks in the Red Sea have also threatened sea lanes through which much of the world's oil is shipped. Several shipping companies along with some liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers have decided to avoid the world's main East-West trade route following the attacks. The significance of the Red Sea The Red Sea is the only route to the Suez Canal, linking some of the world's biggest consumers of tradable goods in Europe with big suppliers in Asia, a report by The Straits Times on Saturday said. The report added that around 12 per cent of global trade passes through the canal and more than $1 trillion worth of goods per year. The attacks by Houthis have made reaching the Suez Canal more perilous. Reuters reported on Wednesday that 4-8 per cent of global LNG cargoes passed through the canal this year. Click here to follow all updates on the Israel-Hamas war Citing S&P Global Commodity Insights, the report said that in 2023, a total of 16.2 million metric tonnes (MMT), or 51% of LNG trade, has flowed from the Atlantic Basin east through the Suez Canal, while 15.7 MMT went through the canal from the Pacific Basin west. On the other hand, 8.2 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil and oil products traversed the Red Sea over January-November, as per analytics firm Vortexa. The main shippers through the Red Sea route The Suez Canal is one of the most important arteries of the global oil trade. Vortexa's head of intelligence and analysis for MENA Jay Maroo told Reuters that the northbound traffic (through the Red Sea route) is dominated by European imports, primarily of crude oil from Middle East producers and also of middle distillates from India and the Middle East. The southbound traffic comprises crude flows, mainly from Russia to Asian customers, and also refined products naphtha and fuel oil, he added. Three countries - Qatar, the US, and Russia are the most active shippers of LNG via the canal. Who guards the Red Sea? Some commercial ships in the Red Sea have armed security who can open fire on approaching vessels if they look hostile. However, the region is also protected by the Combined Maritime Forces- a 39-nation partnership including the navies of the United States, India, Australia, France, the United Kingdom (UK), Saudi Arabia and Yemen. On Tuesday, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced the creation of a multinational operation to safeguard commerce in the Red Sea. “The lifeblood of a rules-based international order is actually seawater. All countries have the right to move freely and lawfully in international waters, but that foundational global right is under new threat today from the totally unacceptable attacks on merchant vessels by the Houthis in Yemen,” Austin said. Also read: Red Sea crisis weighs on already disrupted global supply chains “So, this morning we’ve launched Operation Prosperity Guardian, under the umbrella of combined maritime forces and under the leadership of taskforce 153. That operation is bringing together more than a dozen countries from around the world to conduct joint patrols in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden,” he added. The Pentagon said on Thursday that more than 20 countries agreed to participate in the coalition. "We've had over 20 nations now sign on to participate. We'll allow other countries, defer to them to talk about their participation," Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Patrick Ryder said. Have prices been impacted following the attacks? Reuters reported on Wednesday that Asian spot LNG prices were at $12.3 per million British thermal units (mmBtu) and remained throughout this range since the attacks by Houthis (at the Red Sea) started. Prices have fallen in recent weeks mounting demand concerns and growing indications that the world will go into the next year in a supply surplus. Tamas Varga of oil broker PVM told the news agency that the recent rise in oil prices was understandable "but the rally will not last unless oil supply is materially affected." Oil freight prices have already been impacted. According to Vortexa, Rates for booking a Suezmax to transport crude from the Middle East to Europe went up 25 per cent in a week. A shipping source told Reuters that insurance war risk premiums went up from $2,000 to $10,000. Meanwhile, crude and oil products market players said the extent of the impact will be determined by the duration of shipping disruptions as a result of the Houthi attacks. LNG market players have said that the gas trade is likely to be largely unaffected and any disruption would not have a massive impact on global supply. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: How attacks on Red Sea by Houthis will affect oil and gas shipping?

Latest in Israel-Hamas war: Israeli military says it plans to widen operation in Southern Gaza. The UNSC Gaza aid resolution aims to boost humanitarian aid to Gaza. The United Nations Security Council on Friday approved a toned-down bid to boost humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and called for urgent steps "to create the conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities" after a week of vote delays and intense negotiations to avoid a veto by the United States. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Hezbollah ups offensive against Israel

UNSC Gaza Aid Resolution: UNSC approves Gaza aid resolution

Israel-Hamas war: Over 20,000 killed & 53,000 wounded in Gaza

Israel-Hamas war: Pro-Hamas, Pro-Houthi protests rock Yemen

Red Sea attacks: US accuses Iran of aiding Houthi pirates

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: The Palestine Red Crescent Society said it had received 70 trucks carrying humanitarian aid. The trucks entered the enclave through Egypt's Rafah border crossing.

Israel-Hamas war: 70 Humanitarian Aid trucks enter Gaza through Rafah crossing

On October 7, the Israel-Hamas war started, writing another bloodied chapter in the century-old conflict between Israel and Palestine.&nbsp;

Hundreds of Hamas militants entered the border from Gaza, killing around 1,100 people, mostly civilians. They took back about 250 people as hostages with them.&nbsp;

The attack was the worst in Israel's history. The Hamas militant reportedly raped women, killed babies, showing a horrible side of the war.&nbsp;

The brutality shown by Hamas was condemned globally, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that he's "deeply shocked"&nbsp;

Taking to&nbsp;X, formerly Twitter, Modi said "our (India's) thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour".&nbsp;

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/2023-the-year-when-india-brighten-up-dark-side-of-the-moon-with-chandrayaan-3-672620">2023: The year when India lit up dark side of the Moon with Chandrayaan-3</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Netanyahu's pledge&nbsp;</h2>

After the Hamas attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to "destroy" Hamas. Calling it retaliatory action, he launched a relentless campaign of air strikes in Gaza followed by a ground offensive that reduced the territory's north to rubble.&nbsp;

The world saw some hope seven weeks into the war, when the two sides agreed to a week-long truce during which Hamas released 105 hostages, mostly women and children, and Israel freed 240 Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;

Israel then resumed its offensive, shifting its focus to southern Gaza, including areas previously declared "safe zones" as it said that it feared Hamas could regroup.&nbsp;

<h2>History of Israel&nbsp;</h2>

David Ben-Gurion, the head of the Jewish Agency, proclaimed the establishment of the State of Israel on May 14, 1948, which was recognised by then-US President Harry S Truman on the same day. The United Nations on November 29, 1947, voted to partition British Mandatory Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, but the move was rejected by the Arab states. Their conflict led to a war with Israel after its creation.&nbsp;

During the eight-month-long war, Israel expanded its territory allotted to it by the UN as more than 760,000 Palestinians fled. Jordan occupied the West Bank including east Jerusalem, while Egypt took the coastal Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

The nation was formally created in 1948, but its history can be traced back to early Iron Age I, or maybe before that.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-china-secretly-working-towards-next-nuclear-test-satellite-images-hint-at-development-672633">Is China secretly working towards next nuclear test? Satellite images hint at development</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What's the future?&nbsp;</h2>

An end to the ongoing war seems to be a distant dream, and it looks like&nbsp;it will keep West Asia on its edge for a longer period than expected.&nbsp;

A total of 129 hostages from the October 7 attacks remain in Gaza, according to Israeli authorities. Around 20 are believed to be dead.&nbsp;

Israel would want a safe return of all the hostages in order to discuss the resolution.&nbsp;

<h2>The war in numbers...so far&nbsp;</h2>

Hamas health authorities claimed on Friday (Dec 22) that a total of 20,057 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza because of Israeli airstrikes and more than 50,000 Palestinians have been injured. A total of 301 Palestinians were killed in the West Bank, Hamas said.&nbsp;

Latest data showed that around 250,000 Israelis have been displaced from the Gaza and Lebanon borders and more than 1.9 million Palestinians were displaced in Gaza, out of a population of 2.3 million.&nbsp;

(With inputs from&nbsp;agencies)&nbsp;

On October 7, the Israel-Hamas war started, writing another bloodied chapter in the century-old conflict between Israel and Palestine. Hundreds of Hamas militants entered the border from Gaza, killing around 1,100 people, mostly civilians.

On October 7, the Israel-Hamas war started, writing another bloodied chapter in the century-old conflict between Israel and Palestine. Hundreds of Hamas militants entered the border from Gaza, killing around 1,100 people, mostly civilians. They took back about 250 people as hostages with them. The attack was the worst in Israel's history. The Hamas militant reportedly raped women, killed babies, showing a horrible side of the war. The brutality shown by Hamas was condemned globally, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that he's "deeply shocked" Taking to X, formerly Twitter, Modi said "our (India's) thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour". Also read: 2023: The year when India lit up dark side of the Moon with Chandrayaan-3 Netanyahu's pledge After the Hamas attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to "destroy" Hamas. Calling it retaliatory action, he launched a relentless campaign of air strikes in Gaza followed by a ground offensive that reduced the territory's north to rubble. The world saw some hope seven weeks into the war, when the two sides agreed to a week-long truce during which Hamas released 105 hostages, mostly women and children, and Israel freed 240 Palestinian prisoners. Israel then resumed its offensive, shifting its focus to southern Gaza, including areas previously declared "safe zones" as it said that it feared Hamas could regroup. History of Israel David Ben-Gurion, the head of the Jewish Agency, proclaimed the establishment of the State of Israel on May 14, 1948, which was recognised by then-US President Harry S Truman on the same day. The United Nations on November 29, 1947, voted to partition British Mandatory Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, but the move was rejected by the Arab states. Their conflict led to a war with Israel after its creation. During the eight-month-long war, Israel expanded its territory allotted to it by the UN as more than 760,000 Palestinians fled. Jordan occupied the West Bank including east Jerusalem, while Egypt took the coastal Gaza Strip. The nation was formally created in 1948, but its history can be traced back to early Iron Age I, or maybe before that. Also read: Is China secretly working towards next nuclear test? Satellite images hint at development What's the future? An end to the ongoing war seems to be a distant dream, and it looks like it will keep West Asia on its edge for a longer period than expected. A total of 129 hostages from the October 7 attacks remain in Gaza, according to Israeli authorities. Around 20 are believed to be dead. Israel would want a safe return of all the hostages in order to discuss the resolution. The war in numbers...so far Hamas health authorities claimed on Friday (Dec 22) that a total of 20,057 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza because of Israeli airstrikes and more than 50,000 Palestinians have been injured. A total of 301 Palestinians were killed in the West Bank, Hamas said. Latest data showed that around 250,000 Israelis have been displaced from the Gaza and Lebanon borders and more than 1.9 million Palestinians were displaced in Gaza, out of a population of 2.3 million. (With inputs from agencies)

2023: The year wrote another bloodied chapter in Israel-Palestine conflict's history

The former American president Donald Trump's daughter and son-in-law visited Israel to express their solidarity with the country in its War. Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner also visited the Kibbutz in southern Israel that was devastated on the 7th of October.

Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner visit Israeli Kibbutz