The crisis in West Asia continues to intensify. On Saturday (Nov 23), Israeli strikes reportedly killed 19 people in the Gaza Strip and 11 people in Beirut, Lebanon.

The crisis in West Asia continues to intensify. On Saturday (Nov 23), Israeli strikes reportedly killed 19 people in the Gaza Strip and 11 people in Beirut, Lebanon. A Gaza's civil defence agency spokesperson told the news agency AFP that 40 others were injured in Saturday's strikes in the Palestinian territory. "Nineteen people were killed and more than 40 others wounded in three massacres caused by Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip between midnight and this morning as well as by tank fire in Rafah in the territory's south," the spokesperson of Gaza's civil defence said. Also read | Netanyahu calls ICC arrest warrant 'antisemitic,' warns of 'severe consequences' Meanwhile, the strikes in Beirut injured 63 people. No evacuation warning from Israel for Beirut "The Israeli enemy strike on Basta al-Fawqa in Beirut killed 11 people, including a large amount of body parts that are being identified. The final death toll will be determined after DNA tests are carried out," the Lebanese health ministry said in a statement. Citing state media, AFP reported that rescuers were seen removing rubble in Al-Mamoun Street in the Basta (neighbourhood), where Israeli enemy aircraft targeted an eight-story building at dawn, destroying it, and leaving a large number of people dead and wounded. State media also said that Saturday's strikes were the second time the Basta district had been targeted since the Israel-Hezbollah conflict in Lebanon began. Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah have exchanged fire for over a year in parallel with the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip, which began on October 7, 2023. Following a year of cross-border exchanges, Israel dramatically escalated its air campaign in Lebanon in September and later sent ground troops into southern Lebanon to fight Hezbollah. 'Hospitals in Gaza only have two days of fuel left' On Friday, the Palestinian health ministry said that hospitals in Gaza had only two days of fuel left before they must restrict services. Marwan al-Hams, director of Gaza's field hospitals, told reporters all hospitals in the Palestinian territory "will stop working or reduce their services within 48 hours due to the occupation's (Israel's) obstruction of fuel entry." Also watch | The West Asia Post: Hezbollah vows to hit Tel Aviv × This warning came a day after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

West Asia crisis updates: Israeli strikes kill 19 in Gaza, 11 in Beirut

The United States on Wednesday vetoed a UN&nbsp;Security Council resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza, drawing criticism of the Biden administration for once again blocking international action aimed at halting Israel's war with Hamas.

The 15-member council voted on a resolution put forward by 10 non-permanent members that called for an "immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire" in the 13-month conflict and separately demanded the release of hostages.

Only the US&nbsp;voted against, using its veto as a permanent council member to block the resolution.

Robert Wood, deputy US&nbsp;ambassador to the UN, said Washington had made clear it would only support a resolution that explicitly calls for the immediate release of hostages as part of a ceasefire.

"A durable end to the war must come with the release of the hostages. These two urgent goals are inextricably linked. This resolution abandoned that necessity, and for that reason, the United States could not support it," he said.

Wood said the US&nbsp;had sought compromise, but the text of the proposed resolution would have sent a "dangerous message" to Palestinian militant group Hamas that "there's no need to come back to the negotiating table."

Israel's campaign in Gaza has killed nearly 44,000 people and displaced nearly all the enclave's population at least once. It was launched in response to an attack by Hamas-led fighters who killed 1,200 people and captured more than 250 hostages in Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.

Members roundly criticized the US&nbsp;for blocking the resolution put forward by the council's 10 elected members: Algeria, Ecuador, Guyana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, South Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia and Switzerland.

"It is deeply regretted that due to the use of the veto this council has once again failed to uphold its responsibility to maintain international peace and security," Malta's UN&nbsp;Ambassador Vanessa Frazier said after the vote failed, adding that the text of the resolution "was by no means a maximalist one."

"It represented the bare minimum of what is needed to begin to address the desperate situation on the ground," she said. 
Food security experts have warned that famine is imminent among Gaza's 2.3 million people.

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden, who leaves office on Jan. 20, has offered Israel strong diplomatic backing and continued to provide arms for the war, while trying unsuccessfully to broker a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas that would see hostages released in exchange for Palestinians held by Israel.

After blocking earlier resolutions on Gaza, Washington in March abstained from a vote that allowed a resolution to pass demanding an immediate ceasefire.

A senior US&nbsp;official, who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity ahead of Wednesday's vote, said Britain had put forward new language that the US&nbsp;would have supported as a compromise, but that was rejected by the elected members.

Some members were more interested in bringing about a US&nbsp;veto than compromising on the resolution, the official said, accusing US&nbsp;adversaries Russia and China of encouraging those members.

<h2>'Green light'</h2>

France's ambassador Nicolas de Riviere said the resolution rejected by the US&nbsp;"very firmly" required the release of hostages.

"France still has two hostages in Gaza, and we deeply regret that the Security Council was not able to formulate this demand," he said.

China's UN&nbsp;ambassador, Fu Cong, said each time the United States had exercised its veto to protect Israel, the number of people killed in Gaza had steadily risen.

"How many more people have to die before they wake up from their pretend slumber?" he asked.

"Insistence on setting a precondition for ceasefire is tantamount to giving the green light to continue the war and condoning the continued killing."

Israel's UN&nbsp;ambassador Danny Danon said ahead of the vote the text was not a resolution for peace but was "a resolution for appeasement" of Hamas.

"History will remember who stood with the hostages and who abandoned them," Danon said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The United States on Wednesday vetoed a UN Security Council resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza, drawing criticism of the Biden administration for once again blocking international action aimed at halting Israel's war with Hamas.

The United States on Wednesday vetoed a UN Security Council resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza, drawing criticism of the Biden administration for once again blocking international action aimed at halting Israel's war with Hamas. The 15-member council voted on a resolution put forward by 10 non-permanent members that called for an "immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire" in the 13-month conflict and separately demanded the release of hostages. Only the US voted against, using its veto as a permanent council member to block the resolution. Robert Wood, deputy US ambassador to the UN, said Washington had made clear it would only support a resolution that explicitly calls for the immediate release of hostages as part of a ceasefire. "A durable end to the war must come with the release of the hostages. These two urgent goals are inextricably linked. This resolution abandoned that necessity, and for that reason, the United States could not support it," he said. Wood said the US had sought compromise, but the text of the proposed resolution would have sent a "dangerous message" to Palestinian militant group Hamas that "there's no need to come back to the negotiating table." Israel's campaign in Gaza has killed nearly 44,000 people and displaced nearly all the enclave's population at least once. It was launched in response to an attack by Hamas-led fighters who killed 1,200 people and captured more than 250 hostages in Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. Members roundly criticized the US for blocking the resolution put forward by the council's 10 elected members: Algeria, Ecuador, Guyana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, South Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia and Switzerland. "It is deeply regretted that due to the use of the veto this council has once again failed to uphold its responsibility to maintain international peace and security," Malta's UN Ambassador Vanessa Frazier said after the vote failed, adding that the text of the resolution "was by no means a maximalist one." "It represented the bare minimum of what is needed to begin to address the desperate situation on the ground," she said. Food security experts have warned that famine is imminent among Gaza's 2.3 million people. US President Joe Biden, who leaves office on Jan. 20, has offered Israel strong diplomatic backing and continued to provide arms for the war, while trying unsuccessfully to broker a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas that would see hostages released in exchange for Palestinians held by Israel. After blocking earlier resolutions on Gaza, Washington in March abstained from a vote that allowed a resolution to pass demanding an immediate ceasefire. A senior US official, who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity ahead of Wednesday's vote, said Britain had put forward new language that the US would have supported as a compromise, but that was rejected by the elected members. Some members were more interested in bringing about a US veto than compromising on the resolution, the official said, accusing US adversaries Russia and China of encouraging those members. 'Green light' France's ambassador Nicolas de Riviere said the resolution rejected by the US "very firmly" required the release of hostages. "France still has two hostages in Gaza, and we deeply regret that the Security Council was not able to formulate this demand," he said. China's UN ambassador, Fu Cong, said each time the United States had exercised its veto to protect Israel, the number of people killed in Gaza had steadily risen. "How many more people have to die before they wake up from their pretend slumber?" he asked. "Insistence on setting a precondition for ceasefire is tantamount to giving the green light to continue the war and condoning the continued killing." Israel's UN ambassador Danny Danon said ahead of the vote the text was not a resolution for peace but was "a resolution for appeasement" of Hamas. "History will remember who stood with the hostages and who abandoned them," Danon said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israel-Hamas war: US vetoes UNSC resolution on ceasefire

Senior US and Israeli officials will meet in early December to address American concerns over harm to civilians caused by military operations in Gaza, the State Department said Tuesday.

The United States has regularly voiced concerns to key ally Israel over American-supplied weapons being used in strikes that have killed civilians in the Gaza Strip.

However, it has only once exercised the ultimate US leverage — holding some of the billions of dollars in military aid to Israel.

The State Department has also opened several investigations into Israeli strikes using US-supplied weapons that killed Gaza civilians. But no conclusions have been made public, and US military aid has continued to flow.

The December meeting will be the first of a new channel designed to "inform the ongoing work that the State Department has to do to make assessments about the use of US-provided weapons," spokesperson Matthew Miller said.&nbsp;

Israel's use of the weapons would breach US law if it were determined the country had deliberately targeted and killed civilians, and US authorities are looking at specific instances to see whether that is the case.

"There are a number of incidents that we have had questions about and we've had concerns about," Miller said.

He added that "we set up this new channel because we wanted to formalize a mechanism for getting answers to some of these questions."

Miller declined to specify where the meeting would take place.

The Biden administration has long called for such a channel, which was included in a letter Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin sent to Israel in mid-October.

The letter additionally gave Israel a month to allow more assistance into Gaza or face cutoffs of some US weapons.

However, the United States ultimately decided not to take action, despite Israel not meeting metrics on the number of aid trucks and a new UN-backed assessment warning of imminent famine in Gaza.

Earlier Tuesday, a handful of left-leaning senators called on the Biden administration to halt arms sales to Israel, accusing the United States of playing a key role in the "atrocities" of the war in Gaza.

The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza says the death toll from the ongoing war has reached 43,972 people, the majority civilians. The United Nations considers the figures reliable.

The war first began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of 1,206 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Senior US and Israeli officials will meet in early December to address American concerns over harm to civilians caused by military operations in Gaza, the State Department said Tuesday.

Senior US and Israeli officials will meet in early December to address American concerns over harm to civilians caused by military operations in Gaza, the State Department said Tuesday. The United States has regularly voiced concerns to key ally Israel over American-supplied weapons being used in strikes that have killed civilians in the Gaza Strip. However, it has only once exercised the ultimate US leverage — holding some of the billions of dollars in military aid to Israel. The State Department has also opened several investigations into Israeli strikes using US-supplied weapons that killed Gaza civilians. But no conclusions have been made public, and US military aid has continued to flow. The December meeting will be the first of a new channel designed to "inform the ongoing work that the State Department has to do to make assessments about the use of US-provided weapons," spokesperson Matthew Miller said. Israel's use of the weapons would breach US law if it were determined the country had deliberately targeted and killed civilians, and US authorities are looking at specific instances to see whether that is the case. "There are a number of incidents that we have had questions about and we've had concerns about," Miller said. He added that "we set up this new channel because we wanted to formalize a mechanism for getting answers to some of these questions." Miller declined to specify where the meeting would take place. The Biden administration has long called for such a channel, which was included in a letter Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin sent to Israel in mid-October. The letter additionally gave Israel a month to allow more assistance into Gaza or face cutoffs of some US weapons. However, the United States ultimately decided not to take action, despite Israel not meeting metrics on the number of aid trucks and a new UN-backed assessment warning of imminent famine in Gaza. Earlier Tuesday, a handful of left-leaning senators called on the Biden administration to halt arms sales to Israel, accusing the United States of playing a key role in the "atrocities" of the war in Gaza. The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza says the death toll from the ongoing war has reached 43,972 people, the majority civilians. The United Nations considers the figures reliable. The war first began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of 1,206 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US to hold talks with Israel over civilian casualties in Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a rare visit to the city on Tuesday (Nov. 19) and said that Hamas will never rule again in Gaza. He also announced a $5 million reward for the return of each hostage.

Netanyahu also repeated his pledge to "destroy" the Palestinian militant group and claimed that Israeli forces have destroyed Hamas' military capabilities.

Netanyahu published a video on his X account in which he is seen wearing a battle vest and a ballistic helmet, as he says in Hebrew, "Hamas shall not return."&nbsp;

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החמאס לא ישלוט בעזה. מי שיעז לפגוע בחטופינו - דמו בראשו. אנחנו נרדוף אתכם, ואנחנו נשיג אתכם. <a href="https://t.co/6Coj7l410O">pic.twitter.com/6Coj7l410O</a>
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1858946643854586054?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The Israeli PM also talked about the Israeli hostages in Gaza and said the search for 101 hostages is continuing.&nbsp;

In a big move, Netanyahu even announced a sum of $5 million as a reward for the return of each hostage.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trump-appoints-wall-street-investor-howard-lutnick-as-us-commerce-secretary-777661">Trump appoints Wall Street investor Howard Lutnick as US commerce secretary</a>

"Whoever brings us a hostage will find a safe way. We will also give them a reward of $5 million for each hostage. So, the choice is yours, but the result will be the same. We'll get them (hostages) all back," he further added.&nbsp;

After offering a reward and assuring a safe way out, Netanyahu issued a warning&nbsp;without mincing any words and said,&nbsp;"Anyone who dares to harm our hostages will have blood on their head. We will hunt you down and get you."

Netanyahu reportedly visited Gaza to get first-hand updates on Israeli operations in the territory.

The video also showed Netanyahu accompanied by Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz.&nbsp;

Netanyahu's Gaza visit came a day after he slammed the Biden administration for its policies against Israel.&nbsp;

In his first address in the Knesset after the US election, the Israeli PM said, “The US had reservations and suggested that we not enter Gaza. It had reservations about entering Gaza City, Khan Younis, and, most critically, strongly opposed entry into Rafah.”

The Times of Israel reported on November 18 that&nbsp;Netanyahu also revealed in his speech in the Israeli parliament that he was told by the US to not react after Iran attacked Israel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/another-billionaire-in-team-trump-20-marc-rowan-a-top-contender-for-treasury-secretary-777659">Another billionaire in Team Trump 2.0? Marc Rowan a top contender for treasury secretary</a>

He further claimed that the counterattack by Israel on Iran in October damaged "specific components" of the Islamic nation's nuclear programme.

“It’s not a secret, it has been published&nbsp;that a certain component of their nuclear programme was hit in this attack," Netanyahu told the Israeli parliament.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a rare visit to the city on Tuesday (Nov. 19) and said that Hamas will never rule again in Gaza. He also announced a $5 million reward for the return of each hostage.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a rare visit to the city on Tuesday (Nov. 19) and said that Hamas will never rule again in Gaza. He also announced a $5 million reward for the return of each hostage. Netanyahu also repeated his pledge to "destroy" the Palestinian militant group and claimed that Israeli forces have destroyed Hamas' military capabilities. Netanyahu published a video on his X account in which he is seen wearing a battle vest and a ballistic helmet, as he says in Hebrew, "Hamas shall not return." החמאס לא ישלוט בעזה. מי שיעז לפגוע בחטופינו - דמו בראשו. אנחנו נרדוף אתכם, ואנחנו נשיג אתכם. pic.twitter.com/6Coj7l410O — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) November 19, 2024 × The Israeli PM also talked about the Israeli hostages in Gaza and said the search for 101 hostages is continuing. In a big move, Netanyahu even announced a sum of $5 million as a reward for the return of each hostage. Also read | Trump appoints Wall Street investor Howard Lutnick as US commerce secretary "Whoever brings us a hostage will find a safe way. We will also give them a reward of $5 million for each hostage. So, the choice is yours, but the result will be the same. We'll get them (hostages) all back," he further added. After offering a reward and assuring a safe way out, Netanyahu issued a warning without mincing any words and said, "Anyone who dares to harm our hostages will have blood on their head. We will hunt you down and get you." Netanyahu reportedly visited Gaza to get first-hand updates on Israeli operations in the territory. The video also showed Netanyahu accompanied by Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz. Netanyahu's Gaza visit came a day after he slammed the Biden administration for its policies against Israel. In his first address in the Knesset after the US election, the Israeli PM said, “The US had reservations and suggested that we not enter Gaza. It had reservations about entering Gaza City, Khan Younis, and, most critically, strongly opposed entry into Rafah.” The Times of Israel reported on November 18 that Netanyahu also revealed in his speech in the Israeli parliament that he was told by the US to not react after Iran attacked Israel. Also read | Another billionaire in Team Trump 2.0? Marc Rowan a top contender for treasury secretary He further claimed that the counterattack by Israel on Iran in October damaged "specific components" of the Islamic nation's nuclear programme. “It’s not a secret, it has been published that a certain component of their nuclear programme was hit in this attack," Netanyahu told the Israeli parliament. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu makes rare Gaza visit, announces $5 million reward for each hostage returned

Family tragedy piled up for former Israel Defense Forces (IDF) chief Gadi Eisenkot in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. On Sunday (Nov. 17), the IDF announced that Cpt.

Family tragedy piled up for former Israel Defense Forces (IDF) chief Gadi Eisenkot in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. On Sunday (Nov. 17), the IDF announced that Cpt. Yogev Pazy, a platoon commander with the Kfir Brigade’s Nahshon Battalion, was declared dead alongside Staff Sgt. Noam Eitan after an exchange of fire with Hamas militants in the Beit Lahiya area of the Gaza Strip. A report by The Times of Israel on Sunday said that Pazy was Eisenkot's nephew. Eisenkot, who served as the IDF chief of staff from 2015 to 2019, is currently a member of Benny Gantz’s National Unity party. The party joined the Benjamin Netanyahu government as part of an emergency coalition in the aftermath of Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7 last year. Eisenkot also lost his son, another nephew in Gaza war The Times of Israel report said that Eisenkot's son, 25-year-old Master Sgt. (res.) Gal Meir Eisenkot, was killed while fighting in Gaza in early December last year. Also read | Two flash bombs fired towards Israeli PM Netanyahu's home in Caesarea, police arrest 3 The former IDF chief then lost another nephew—Sgt. Maor Cohen Eisenkot—just the next day after his son's death. A Facebook post by Pazy to Gal On August 10 this year, Pazy had written a Facebook post on the occasion of what would have been Gal Meir Eisenkot's 26th birthday. “Eight months and three days. But today is a day without sad speeches. Today is your birthday. So instead, I will share my thanks and a number of memories,” Pazy wrote. The post was accompanied by several images of Pazy and Eisenkot throughout the years and a photograph of a tattoo that Pazy had gotten in Eisenkot’s memory. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Ex-IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot loses third close family member in conflict

Pope Francis, has for the first time, addressed allegations that Israel's actions in Gaza may meet the criteria for genocide. According to extracts from his upcoming book, 'Hope Never Disappoints. Pilgrims Towards a Better World,' Published by Italy's La Stampa on Sunday (Nov 17), the pontiff has urged a thorough investigation into whether the situation in Gaza aligns with the legal definition of genocide as established by international law.

The pope wrote, "According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of genocide," and stressed that this claim "should be studied carefully to determine whether (the situation) corresponds to the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strike-kills-hezbollah-spokesman-in-central-beirut-report-776876">Israeli strike kills Hezbollah spokesman in central Beirut: Report</a>

His statement aligns with the United Nations Special Committee, which recently, on Thursday (Nov 14) judged that Israel's conduct of warfare in Gaza "consistent with the characteristics of genocide" and accused it of "using starvation as a method of war" — a claim rejected by Israel and its allies.

<h2>Israel responds</h2>

Responding to the Argentinian pontiff, Israel's embassy to the Vatican on Sunday once again asserted its right to self-defence.

"There was a genocidal massacre on 7 October 2023 of Israeli citizens, and since then, Israel has exercised its right of self-defense against attempts from seven different fronts to kill its citizens," it said.

Quoting its ambassador Yaron Sideman, the embassy on X added, "Any attempt to call it by any other name is singling out the Jewish State."

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Facendo seguito a quanto riportato oggi da <a href="https://twitter.com/vaticannews_it?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vaticannews_it</a>: “Il 7 ottobre 2023 c’è stato un massacro genocida di cittadini israeliani e da allora Israele ha esercitato il proprio diritto di autodifesa contro i tentativi provenienti da sette diversi fronti di uccidere i suoi… <a href="https://t.co/Jwnu7MTIPd">https://t.co/Jwnu7MTIPd</a>
— Israel in HolySee (@IsraelinHolySee) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelinHolySee/status/1858176785571033231?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Pope Francis has consistently condemned the loss of life in Israel but has, till now, refrained from explicitly using the term genocide.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-26-killed-59-missing-as-israeli-air-strike-levels-residential-building-776861">Gaza: 26 killed, 59 missing as Israeli air strike levels residential building</a>

On Sunday, he took to X and said,&nbsp;"Let us #PrayTogether for peace: in martyred Ukraine, in Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, and Sudan."

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Let us <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrayTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrayTogether</a> for peace: in martyred Ukraine, in Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, and Sudan. War dehumanizes, leading us to tolerate unacceptable crimes. May leaders listen to the cry of the people who long for peace.
— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pontifex/status/1858148084934467831?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"War dehumanises, leading us to tolerate unacceptable crimes. May leaders listen to the cry of the people who long for peace."

(With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis, has for the first time, addressed allegations that Israel's actions in Gaza may meet the criteria for genocide. According to extracts from his upcoming book, 'Hope Never Disappoints.

Pope Francis, has for the first time, addressed allegations that Israel's actions in Gaza may meet the criteria for genocide. According to extracts from his upcoming book, 'Hope Never Disappoints. Pilgrims Towards a Better World,' Published by Italy's La Stampa on Sunday (Nov 17), the pontiff has urged a thorough investigation into whether the situation in Gaza aligns with the legal definition of genocide as established by international law. The pope wrote, "According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of genocide," and stressed that this claim "should be studied carefully to determine whether (the situation) corresponds to the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies." Also read | Israeli strike kills Hezbollah spokesman in central Beirut: Report His statement aligns with the United Nations Special Committee, which recently, on Thursday (Nov 14) judged that Israel's conduct of warfare in Gaza "consistent with the characteristics of genocide" and accused it of "using starvation as a method of war" — a claim rejected by Israel and its allies. Israel responds Responding to the Argentinian pontiff, Israel's embassy to the Vatican on Sunday once again asserted its right to self-defence. "There was a genocidal massacre on 7 October 2023 of Israeli citizens, and since then, Israel has exercised its right of self-defense against attempts from seven different fronts to kill its citizens," it said. Quoting its ambassador Yaron Sideman, the embassy on X added, "Any attempt to call it by any other name is singling out the Jewish State." Facendo seguito a quanto riportato oggi da @vaticannews_it: “Il 7 ottobre 2023 c’è stato un massacro genocida di cittadini israeliani e da allora Israele ha esercitato il proprio diritto di autodifesa contro i tentativi provenienti da sette diversi fronti di uccidere i suoi… https://t.co/Jwnu7MTIPd — Israel in HolySee (@IsraelinHolySee) November 17, 2024 × Pope Francis has consistently condemned the loss of life in Israel but has, till now, refrained from explicitly using the term genocide. Also read | Gaza: 26 killed, 59 missing as Israeli air strike levels residential building On Sunday, he took to X and said, "Let us #PrayTogether for peace: in martyred Ukraine, in Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, and Sudan." Let us #PrayTogether for peace: in martyred Ukraine, in Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, and Sudan. War dehumanizes, leading us to tolerate unacceptable crimes. May leaders listen to the cry of the people who long for peace. — Pope Francis (@Pontifex) November 17, 2024 × "War dehumanises, leading us to tolerate unacceptable crimes. May leaders listen to the cry of the people who long for peace." (With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis, for the first time, labels Israel's actions in Gaza as 'genocide'; calls for investigation

At least 10 Palestinians were killed and 20 others were injured in an Israeli strike on a United Nations-run Gaza school on Saturday (Nov 16). The strike targeted the Shati refugee camp which is currently sheltering displaced families and people.

Gaza health officials said the UN-run Abu Assi school was struck and people may still be buried under the rubble. Authorities said the rescue operations were still going on. Israel is yet to comment on the incident.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwijnaG3veGJAxVIa_UHHTpXCdgQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-pulls-out-of-gaza-ceasefire-talk-says-hamas-office-in-doha-no-longer-serves-its-purpose-774863" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-pulls-out-of-gaza-ceasefire-talk-says-hamas-office-in-doha-no-longer-serves-its-purpose-774863&amp;ved=2ahUKEwijnaG3veGJAxVIa_UHHTpXCdgQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Hamas says `not received` request to leave Qatar amid reports of Doha backing out of Gaza truce talks</a>

Meanwhile, the Israeli military reported Saturday that two rockets were fired at the Jewish nation from the northern Gaza Strip and both were intercepted. Palestinian officials said a total of 30 people were killed by the Israeli military on Saturday in several incidents on Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwijnaG3veGJAxVIa_UHHTpXCdgQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partial-biased-data-israel-rejects-warnings-of-impending-famine-in-gaza-774893" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/partial-biased-data-israel-rejects-warnings-of-impending-famine-in-gaza-774893&amp;ved=2ahUKEwijnaG3veGJAxVIa_UHHTpXCdgQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">'Partial, biased data': Israel rejects warnings of impending famine in Gaza</a>

According to the Gaza health ministry, 43,799 people have died in the Gaza Strip so far since the conflict began on October 7, 2023.

<h2>Israeli forces face setback in Lebanon: Report</h2>

Israeli soldiers on Saturday reached their deepest point in Lebanon since the invasion began almost six weeks ago; however, they were forced to retreat after facing attacks from Hezbollah fighters.

"Troops captured a strategic hill in the southern Lebanese village of Chamaa, five kilometres (three miles) from the Israeli border early Saturday", the state-run National News Agency reported.&nbsp;

Israeli forces targeted the Shrine of Shimon the Prophet in Chamaa, as well as several homes, before they withdrew, the news report said.

Israel’s military said in a statement that its troops “continue their limited, localized, and targeted operational activity in southern Lebanon”.

The push on the ground came as Israeli warplanes pounded Beirut’s southern suburbs as well as several other areas in southern Lebanon, including the port city of Tyre.

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)

At least 10 Palestinians were killed and 20 others were injured in an Israeli strike on a United Nations-run Gaza school on Saturday (Nov 16). The strike targeted the Shati refugee camp which is currently sheltering displaced families and people.

At least 10 Palestinians were killed and 20 others were injured in an Israeli strike on a United Nations-run Gaza school on Saturday (Nov 16). The strike targeted the Shati refugee camp which is currently sheltering displaced families and people. Gaza health officials said the UN-run Abu Assi school was struck and people may still be buried under the rubble. Authorities said the rescue operations were still going on. Israel is yet to comment on the incident. Also read: Hamas says `not received` request to leave Qatar amid reports of Doha backing out of Gaza truce talks Meanwhile, the Israeli military reported Saturday that two rockets were fired at the Jewish nation from the northern Gaza Strip and both were intercepted. Palestinian officials said a total of 30 people were killed by the Israeli military on Saturday in several incidents on Saturday. Also read: 'Partial, biased data': Israel rejects warnings of impending famine in Gaza According to the Gaza health ministry, 43,799 people have died in the Gaza Strip so far since the conflict began on October 7, 2023. Israeli forces face setback in Lebanon: Report Israeli soldiers on Saturday reached their deepest point in Lebanon since the invasion began almost six weeks ago; however, they were forced to retreat after facing attacks from Hezbollah fighters. "Troops captured a strategic hill in the southern Lebanese village of Chamaa, five kilometres (three miles) from the Israeli border early Saturday", the state-run National News Agency reported. Israeli forces targeted the Shrine of Shimon the Prophet in Chamaa, as well as several homes, before they withdrew, the news report said. Israel’s military said in a statement that its troops “continue their limited, localized, and targeted operational activity in southern Lebanon”. The push on the ground came as Israeli warplanes pounded Beirut’s southern suburbs as well as several other areas in southern Lebanon, including the port city of Tyre. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israeli strike on UN-run school kills 10 Palestinians, rescue ops still on

Hezbollah spokesman Mohammed Afif has been reportedly killed in an Israeli strike in central Beirut, confirmed a Lebanese security source to AFP. &nbsp;

The spokesman reportedly died in an air strike which hit the Lebanese branch of the Syrian Baath party.

"The strike on Ras al-Nabaa killed Hezbollah media relations official Mohammed Afif," said the security source, whose identity was not revealed.

Secretary-general of the Lebanese branch of the Baath party Ali Hijazi "confirmed the death of Hezbollah media official" Afif, reported the official National News Agency (NNA)

Lebanon's health ministry stated that one person was killed in the strike and three others were injured. It further stated that the toll was provisional and work was going on to remove the rubble from the site of the incident.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-plans-to-empty-gaza-strip-of-its-people-says-palestinian-president-abbas-770487">Israel plans to ‘empty’ Gaza Strip of its people, claims Palestinian President Abbas</a>

According to Reuters, the Ras al-Nabaa neighborhood—where many of those displaced from southern suburbs in Beirut live—was hit by the strikes.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Mohammed Afif?</h2>

Mohammed Afif was Hezbollah's former secretary general Hassan Nasrallah's long-time media adviser.&nbsp;

Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli air strike in Beirut on September 27.&nbsp;

Afif used to manage the Al-Manar television station of Hezbollah for several years before he took over the media relations office of the Iran-backed group and shared information with local and foreign journalists.

He had also hosted various press conferences for journalists in the capital.

On November 11, he had said that Israeli troops had not occupied any territory in Lebanon and that Hezbollah had supplies and weapons to support a "long war".

In one event, Afif said that a drone had been launched by Hezbollah towards Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Lebanon War: Israeli Strikes Hits Beirut's Southern Suburbs

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The NNA stated that the strike by "enemy aircraft" caused "great destruction" and further reported that some people were "trapped under the rubble" in Ras al-Nabaa, which is an area close to the French embassy and a university.

It said that "one of the residents of a neighbouring building had received a warning call urging evacuation but it was not taken seriously".

Several press conferences were held by Afif in the southern suburbs of Beirut since the assassination of Nasrallah in late September.

Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments in 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)

Hezbollah spokesman Mohammed Afif has been reportedly killed in an Israeli strike in central Beirut, confirmed a Lebanese security source to AFP. The spokesman reportedly died in an air strike which hit the Lebanese branch of the Syrian Baath party.

Hezbollah spokesman Mohammed Afif has been reportedly killed in an Israeli strike in central Beirut, confirmed a Lebanese security source to AFP. The spokesman reportedly died in an air strike which hit the Lebanese branch of the Syrian Baath party. "The strike on Ras al-Nabaa killed Hezbollah media relations official Mohammed Afif," said the security source, whose identity was not revealed. Secretary-general of the Lebanese branch of the Baath party Ali Hijazi "confirmed the death of Hezbollah media official" Afif, reported the official National News Agency (NNA) Lebanon's health ministry stated that one person was killed in the strike and three others were injured. It further stated that the toll was provisional and work was going on to remove the rubble from the site of the incident. Also Read: Israel plans to ‘empty’ Gaza Strip of its people, claims Palestinian President Abbas According to Reuters, the Ras al-Nabaa neighborhood—where many of those displaced from southern suburbs in Beirut live—was hit by the strikes. Who is Mohammed Afif? Mohammed Afif was Hezbollah's former secretary general Hassan Nasrallah's long-time media adviser. Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli air strike in Beirut on September 27. Afif used to manage the Al-Manar television station of Hezbollah for several years before he took over the media relations office of the Iran-backed group and shared information with local and foreign journalists. He had also hosted various press conferences for journalists in the capital. On November 11, he had said that Israeli troops had not occupied any territory in Lebanon and that Hezbollah had supplies and weapons to support a "long war". In one event, Afif said that a drone had been launched by Hezbollah towards Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence. Watch: Israel-Lebanon War: Israeli Strikes Hits Beirut's Southern Suburbs The NNA stated that the strike by "enemy aircraft" caused "great destruction" and further reported that some people were "trapped under the rubble" in Ras al-Nabaa, which is an area close to the French embassy and a university. It said that "one of the residents of a neighbouring building had received a warning call urging evacuation but it was not taken seriously". Several press conferences were held by Afif in the southern suburbs of Beirut since the assassination of Nasrallah in late September. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments in 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)

Israeli strike kills Hezbollah spokesman in central Beirut: Report

The United States on Tuesday (Nov 12) said that Israel was not violating US laws regarding the level of humanitarian aid allowed into Gaza, but urged further progress. This comes a month after US President Joe Biden's administration set a November 13 deadline for Israel to improve access to humanitarian assistance or risk the suspension of some military aid.

<h2>US's 30-day deadline to Israel</h2>

Last month, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin sent a letter to Israel expressing concern over Gaza's humanitarian conditions. Setting a 30-day deadline until November 13, they asked Israel to comply with US laws on permitting humanitarian assistance.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-trump-aides-warn-israeli-ministers-not-to-assume-he-will-support-annexing-west-bank-report-775417">Ex-Trump aides warn Israeli ministers not to assume he will support annexing West Bank: Report</a>

While the US acknowledged improvements, including new border crossings and a gradual increase in aid flow, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said: “The overall humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to be unsatisfactory”.

However, when asked previously if Israel had met US demands, he said “We have not made an assessment that they (Israel) are in violation of US law.”

Patel said that though the steps are insufficient in&nbsp;fully addressing the humanitarian crisis, they are&nbsp;in the “right direction.”

“In the context of the letter, it's not about whether we find something satisfactory or not; it's what are the actions that we're seeing.”

“These actions that we have seen, we think that these are steps in the right direction,” he said.

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“We want to see more steps. We want to see these steps sustained over a significant period of time, and ultimately, we want to see these steps have a result on the situation.”

The US had outlined a goal of 350 aid trucks entering Gaza daily—an unmet target. The State Department spokesperson emphasised that assessment is ongoing, with further action possible if progress stalls.

“After this 30-day period is up, we are constantly assessing and evaluating, and if we do not see consistent progress, if we do not see the results on the ground, then we will, of course, make appropriate assessments about their compliance with international law,” he said.

Watch the press briefing here:

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The State Department said Ron Dermer, a senior advisor to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, met Blinken in Washington on Monday (Nov 11)&nbsp;to discuss the situation and highlighted Israeli efforts to meet US demands.

<h2>Hostage deal</h2>

Patel also said that despite Qatar's suspension of mediation, the US still hoped to reach a Gaza ceasefire deal.

“We're continuing to pursue a number of initiatives to secure the release of hostages. That work is ongoing. We have not given up hope,” he told reporters, adding “It's critical to us to get a deal done as soon as possible, especially so that we can bring the remaining hostages home to their families.”

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Tuesday (Nov 12) said that Israel was not violating US laws regarding the level of humanitarian aid allowed into Gaza, but urged further progress.

The United States on Tuesday (Nov 12) said that Israel was not violating US laws regarding the level of humanitarian aid allowed into Gaza, but urged further progress. This comes a month after US President Joe Biden's administration set a November 13 deadline for Israel to improve access to humanitarian assistance or risk the suspension of some military aid. US's 30-day deadline to Israel Last month, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin sent a letter to Israel expressing concern over Gaza's humanitarian conditions. Setting a 30-day deadline until November 13, they asked Israel to comply with US laws on permitting humanitarian assistance. Also read | Ex-Trump aides warn Israeli ministers not to assume he will support annexing West Bank: Report While the US acknowledged improvements, including new border crossings and a gradual increase in aid flow, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said: “The overall humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to be unsatisfactory”. However, when asked previously if Israel had met US demands, he said “We have not made an assessment that they (Israel) are in violation of US law.” Patel said that though the steps are insufficient in fully addressing the humanitarian crisis, they are in the “right direction.” “In the context of the letter, it's not about whether we find something satisfactory or not; it's what are the actions that we're seeing.” “These actions that we have seen, we think that these are steps in the right direction,” he said. Also read | Hezbollah claims it fired missiles at IDF air base near Tel Aviv “We want to see more steps. We want to see these steps sustained over a significant period of time, and ultimately, we want to see these steps have a result on the situation.” The US had outlined a goal of 350 aid trucks entering Gaza daily—an unmet target. The State Department spokesperson emphasised that assessment is ongoing, with further action possible if progress stalls. “After this 30-day period is up, we are constantly assessing and evaluating, and if we do not see consistent progress, if we do not see the results on the ground, then we will, of course, make appropriate assessments about their compliance with international law,” he said. Watch the press briefing here: × The State Department said Ron Dermer, a senior advisor to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, met Blinken in Washington on Monday (Nov 11) to discuss the situation and highlighted Israeli efforts to meet US demands. Hostage deal Patel also said that despite Qatar's suspension of mediation, the US still hoped to reach a Gaza ceasefire deal. “We're continuing to pursue a number of initiatives to secure the release of hostages. That work is ongoing. We have not given up hope,” he told reporters, adding “It's critical to us to get a deal done as soon as possible, especially so that we can bring the remaining hostages home to their families.” (With inputs from agencies)

Israel's Gaza aid efforts in 'right direction,' says US, but urges further action

Joyce Msuya, a top UN official on Tuesday (Nov 12) condemned the ongoing “daily cruelty” in Gaza.

Msuya, the interim chief of the UN Humanitarian Agency (OCHA), condemning the ongoing violence in Gaza, said the “acts” were “reminiscent of the gravest international crimes”.

<h2>UN official describes the horrors of Gaza war</h2>

The OCHA interim chief described Gaza as a “wasteland of rubble,” where civilians were being driven from their homes and were being “forced to witness their family members killed, burned and buried alive”.

“What distinction was made, and what precautions were taken, if more than 70 per cent of civilian housing is either damaged or destroyed?” Msuya asked.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-gaza-aid-efforts-in-right-direction-says-us-but-urges-further-action-775661">Israel's Gaza aid efforts in 'right direction,' says US, but urges further action</a>

Slamming Israel, she said, “We are witnessing acts reminiscent of the gravest international crimes,” adding, “The daily cruelty we see in Gaza seems to have no limits.”

Msuya’s remarks came as part of a discussion on the growing risk of famine in Gaza, exacerbated by ongoing blockages of aid and the lowest levels of humanitarian assistance entering the region.

<h2>Famine in Gaza imminent?</h2>

On Friday (Nov 8), the independent Famine Review Committee (FRC) issued a rare alert that an imminent famine in northern Gaza could unfold without urgent intervention from all parties involved.

Israel, however, has rejected the warnings. On Saturday (Nov 9) rejecting warnings about a potential famine in northern Gaza, where Israel's military campaign against Hamas has led to severe shortages, the nation said researchers were relying on “partial, biased data”.

Also read | <a class="WlydOe" data-sb="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/partial-biased-data-israel-rejects-warnings-of-impending-famine-in-gaza-774893&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiqtcKt4diJAxXj7jgGHc6BEHYQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Oqgqx_hGZMFAG1m9yxx2a" data-ved="2ahUKEwiqtcKt4diJAxXj7jgGHc6BEHYQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partial-biased-data-israel-rejects-warnings-of-impending-famine-in-gaza-774893" jsname="YKoRaf">'Partial, biased data': Israel rejects warnings of impending famine in Gaza</a> 

“Unfortunately, the researchers continue to rely on partial, biased data and superficial sources with vested interests,” said the Israeli military in a statement.

The United States has also acknowledged the urgency underscored by the FRC's alert. A US State Department spokesperson on Saturday said that Washington was “concerned about the limited amount of aid reaching civilians living in Gaza” and that it was urging Israel to facilitate humanitarian aid entry and delivery.

The situation in Gaza has escalated dramatically since Hamas'&nbsp;October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which left over 1,200 Israeli civilians dead. Israel's retaliatory campaign has meanwhile resulted in at least 43,665 Palestinian deaths, most of them civilians, according to the health ministry in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies)

Joyce Msuya, a top UN official on Tuesday (Nov 12) condemned the ongoing “daily cruelty” in Gaza. Msuya, the interim chief of the UN Humanitarian Agency (OCHA), condemning the ongoing violence in Gaza, said the “acts” were “reminiscent of the gravest international crimes”.

Joyce Msuya, a top UN official on Tuesday (Nov 12) condemned the ongoing “daily cruelty” in Gaza. Msuya, the interim chief of the UN Humanitarian Agency (OCHA), condemning the ongoing violence in Gaza, said the “acts” were “reminiscent of the gravest international crimes”. UN official describes the horrors of Gaza war The OCHA interim chief described Gaza as a “wasteland of rubble,” where civilians were being driven from their homes and were being “forced to witness their family members killed, burned and buried alive”. “What distinction was made, and what precautions were taken, if more than 70 per cent of civilian housing is either damaged or destroyed?” Msuya asked. Also read | Israel's Gaza aid efforts in 'right direction,' says US, but urges further action Slamming Israel, she said, “We are witnessing acts reminiscent of the gravest international crimes,” adding, “The daily cruelty we see in Gaza seems to have no limits.” Msuya’s remarks came as part of a discussion on the growing risk of famine in Gaza, exacerbated by ongoing blockages of aid and the lowest levels of humanitarian assistance entering the region. Famine in Gaza imminent? On Friday (Nov 8), the independent Famine Review Committee (FRC) issued a rare alert that an imminent famine in northern Gaza could unfold without urgent intervention from all parties involved. Israel, however, has rejected the warnings. On Saturday (Nov 9) rejecting warnings about a potential famine in northern Gaza, where Israel's military campaign against Hamas has led to severe shortages, the nation said researchers were relying on “partial, biased data”. Also read | 'Partial, biased data': Israel rejects warnings of impending famine in Gaza “Unfortunately, the researchers continue to rely on partial, biased data and superficial sources with vested interests,” said the Israeli military in a statement. The United States has also acknowledged the urgency underscored by the FRC's alert. A US State Department spokesperson on Saturday said that Washington was “concerned about the limited amount of aid reaching civilians living in Gaza” and that it was urging Israel to facilitate humanitarian aid entry and delivery. The situation in Gaza has escalated dramatically since Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which left over 1,200 Israeli civilians dead. Israel's retaliatory campaign has meanwhile resulted in at least 43,665 Palestinian deaths, most of them civilians, according to the health ministry in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

Top UN official describes Gaza as 'wasteland of rubble' says civilians face 'daily cruelty' at Israel's hands

Qatar has stepped down as a primary mediator in efforts for a ceasefire and hostage exchange in Gaza and informed Hamas that its office in Doha "no longer serves its purpose," according to a report by news agency AFP on Saturday (Nov 9).

"The Qataris informed both the Israelis and Hamas that as long as there is a refusal to negotiate a deal in good faith, they cannot continue to mediate. As a consequence, the Hamas political office no longer serves its purpose," reported the news agency citing a diplomatic source.

As per the report, Qatar had already “notified both sides, Israel and Hamas as well as the US administration” about its decision.

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"The Qataris conveyed to the US administration that they would be ready to re-engage in mediation when both sides… demonstrate a sincere willingness to return to the negotiating table," the source said.

No specific date has been set for Hamas’ departure from Doha, and according to a diplomat cited by The Times of Israel, such a move will not happen immediately. The diplomat further noted that Qatar's decision isn’t necessarily final and might change if both sides show a commitment to fair negotiations.

"We have nothing to confirm or deny regarding what was published by an unidentified diplomatic source and we have not received any request to leave Qatar," an official&nbsp;from Doha told AFP.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/had-he-gotten-out-sooner-democrats-blast-biden-for-defeat-against-trump-774831">‘Had he gotten out sooner...,’ Democrats blast Biden for defeat against Trump</a>

For months, Qatar, along with the United States and Egypt, has engaged in talks aimed at reaching a truce between Israel and the Palestinian militant group. The mediators have held several rounds of talks between the warring parties to secure the release of Israeli hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza and Palestinian prisoners from Israel.&nbsp;

In April, Qatar announced it was reconsidering its role as a mediator in the ongoing conflict, facing criticism from US and Israeli lawmakers.

At that point, Qatar reportedly conveyed a similar position concerning the presence of the Palestinian militant group’s office in Doha, leading Hamas officials to temporarily relocate to Turkey.&nbsp;

However, after two weeks, they returned at the request of both the US and Israel, as negotiations were “ineffective” while they were based in Turkey, said the diplomatic source.

Aside from a one-week ceasefire late last year, which saw many hostages held by Hamas released, repeated negotiation efforts have been unable to end the ongoing&nbsp;war in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Qatar has stepped down as a primary mediator in efforts for a ceasefire and hostage exchange in Gaza and informed Hamas that its office in Doha "no longer serves its purpose," according to a report by news agency AFP on Saturday (Nov 9).

Qatar has stepped down as a primary mediator in efforts for a ceasefire and hostage exchange in Gaza and informed Hamas that its office in Doha "no longer serves its purpose," according to a report by news agency AFP on Saturday (Nov 9). "The Qataris informed both the Israelis and Hamas that as long as there is a refusal to negotiate a deal in good faith, they cannot continue to mediate. As a consequence, the Hamas political office no longer serves its purpose," reported the news agency citing a diplomatic source. As per the report, Qatar had already “notified both sides, Israel and Hamas as well as the US administration” about its decision. Also read: Iran warns of 'war expansion,' says conflicts could spill beyond Middle East "The Qataris conveyed to the US administration that they would be ready to re-engage in mediation when both sides… demonstrate a sincere willingness to return to the negotiating table," the source said. No specific date has been set for Hamas’ departure from Doha, and according to a diplomat cited by The Times of Israel, such a move will not happen immediately. The diplomat further noted that Qatar's decision isn’t necessarily final and might change if both sides show a commitment to fair negotiations. "We have nothing to confirm or deny regarding what was published by an unidentified diplomatic source and we have not received any request to leave Qatar," an official from Doha told AFP. Also read: ‘Had he gotten out sooner...,’ Democrats blast Biden for defeat against Trump For months, Qatar, along with the United States and Egypt, has engaged in talks aimed at reaching a truce between Israel and the Palestinian militant group. The mediators have held several rounds of talks between the warring parties to secure the release of Israeli hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza and Palestinian prisoners from Israel. In April, Qatar announced it was reconsidering its role as a mediator in the ongoing conflict, facing criticism from US and Israeli lawmakers. At that point, Qatar reportedly conveyed a similar position concerning the presence of the Palestinian militant group’s office in Doha, leading Hamas officials to temporarily relocate to Turkey. However, after two weeks, they returned at the request of both the US and Israel, as negotiations were “ineffective” while they were based in Turkey, said the diplomatic source. Aside from a one-week ceasefire late last year, which saw many hostages held by Hamas released, repeated negotiation efforts have been unable to end the ongoing war in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Hamas says 'not received' request to leave Qatar amid reports of Doha backing out of Gaza truce talks

Qatar's foreign ministry on Saturday (Nov 9) confirmed that the nation has paused its role as a key mediator between Israel and Hamas. Citing a lack of “seriousness” from both parties to achieve a ceasefire and hostage release deal, Qatar said it had warned both Israel and Hamas “10 days ago”. The nation has also revealed its conditions for the resumption of the vital talks.

<h2>A warning ignored?</h2>

According to Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari, “Qatar notified the parties 10 days ago, during the last attempts to reach an agreement, that it would stall its efforts to mediate between Hamas and Israel if an agreement was not reached in that round”.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs <a href="https://twitter.com/majedalansari?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@majedalansari</a> : Qatar's efforts to mediate between Hamas and Israel are currently stalled <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MOFAQatar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MOFAQatar</a> <a href="https://t.co/pvHFKuxqA2">pic.twitter.com/pvHFKuxqA2</a>
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Qatar (@MofaQatar_EN) <a href="https://twitter.com/MofaQatar_EN/status/1855322121989148692?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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This decision to pull out follows months of stalled diplomacy, mediated with support from Cairo and Washington, and the breakdown of a temporary truce reached in November 2023.

Majed Al Ansari said, “Qatar would resume those efforts… when the parties show their willingness and seriousness.”

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partial-biased-data-israel-rejects-warnings-of-impending-famine-in-gaza-774893">'Partial, biased data': Israel rejects warnings of impending famine in Gaza</a>

Speaking to AFP, an unnamed diplomatic source, on Saturday revealed that “the Qataris informed both the Israelis and Hamas that as long as there is a refusal to negotiate a deal in good faith, they cannot continue to mediate”.

With Gaza truce talks deadlocked, the Hamas political office in Doha “no longer serves its purpose”, said the diplomatic source. However, despite the diplomatic pullback, Hamas'&nbsp;political office in Doha remains open, as Qatari and US officials said its presence in Qatar offers a potential communication channel. No requests have been made for Hamas's departure from Qatar, said a senior group official.

Meanwhile, the families of hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza held a rally on Saturday, pressing for an immediate hostage deal and voicing frustration with Qatar's withdrawal as a mediator.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-pulls-out-of-gaza-ceasefire-talk-says-hamas-office-in-doha-no-longer-serves-its-purpose-774863" target="_blank">Hamas says 'not received' request to leave Qatar amid reports of Doha backing out of Gaza truce talks</a>

<h2>400 days of Gaza war</h2>

In Gaza, the conflict has entered its 400th day. The conflict marked by unrelenting violence and a deepening humanitarian crisis, as per data from the territory's health ministry has already claimed over 43,500 fatalities in Gaza, primarily civilians. Additionally, over 1,200 Israeli casualties were reported from the initial Hamas attack.

Meanwhile, a UN-backed report by the Famine Review Committee has warned that famine conditions are imminent in northern Gaza due to food shortages and escalating hostilities, a claim Israel disputes as based on “biased data.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Qatar's foreign ministry on Saturday (Nov 9) confirmed that the nation has paused its role as a key mediator between Israel and Hamas. Citing a lack of “seriousness” from both parties to achieve a ceasefire and hostage release deal, Qatar said it had warned both Israel and Hamas “10 days ago”.

Qatar's foreign ministry on Saturday (Nov 9) confirmed that the nation has paused its role as a key mediator between Israel and Hamas. Citing a lack of “seriousness” from both parties to achieve a ceasefire and hostage release deal, Qatar said it had warned both Israel and Hamas “10 days ago”. The nation has also revealed its conditions for the resumption of the vital talks. A warning ignored? According to Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari, “Qatar notified the parties 10 days ago, during the last attempts to reach an agreement, that it would stall its efforts to mediate between Hamas and Israel if an agreement was not reached in that round”. Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs @majedalansari : Qatar's efforts to mediate between Hamas and Israel are currently stalled #MOFAQatar pic.twitter.com/pvHFKuxqA2 — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Qatar (@MofaQatar_EN) November 9, 2024 × This decision to pull out follows months of stalled diplomacy, mediated with support from Cairo and Washington, and the breakdown of a temporary truce reached in November 2023. Majed Al Ansari said, “Qatar would resume those efforts… when the parties show their willingness and seriousness.” Also read | 'Partial, biased data': Israel rejects warnings of impending famine in Gaza Speaking to AFP, an unnamed diplomatic source, on Saturday revealed that “the Qataris informed both the Israelis and Hamas that as long as there is a refusal to negotiate a deal in good faith, they cannot continue to mediate”. With Gaza truce talks deadlocked, the Hamas political office in Doha “no longer serves its purpose”, said the diplomatic source. However, despite the diplomatic pullback, Hamas' political office in Doha remains open, as Qatari and US officials said its presence in Qatar offers a potential communication channel. No requests have been made for Hamas's departure from Qatar, said a senior group official. Meanwhile, the families of hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza held a rally on Saturday, pressing for an immediate hostage deal and voicing frustration with Qatar's withdrawal as a mediator. Also read | Hamas says 'not received' request to leave Qatar amid reports of Doha backing out of Gaza truce talks 400 days of Gaza war In Gaza, the conflict has entered its 400th day. The conflict marked by unrelenting violence and a deepening humanitarian crisis, as per data from the territory's health ministry has already claimed over 43,500 fatalities in Gaza, primarily civilians. Additionally, over 1,200 Israeli casualties were reported from the initial Hamas attack. Meanwhile, a UN-backed report by the Famine Review Committee has warned that famine conditions are imminent in northern Gaza due to food shortages and escalating hostilities, a claim Israel disputes as based on “biased data.” (With inputs from agencies)

Qatar confirms suspension of Gaza mediation, says will only resume talks when...

Israel on Saturday (Nov 9) rejected warnings about a potential famine in northern Gaza, where Israel's military campaign against Hamas has led to severe shortages. This comes as the independent Famine Review Committee (FRC), on Friday (Nov 8), issued a rare alert that an imminent famine in northern Gaza could unfold without urgent intervention from all parties involved.

Meanwhile, as Qatar announced its withdrawal as a mediator in Gaza talks, thousands rallied in Tel Aviv, pressing for an immediate hostage deal.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-pulls-out-of-gaza-ceasefire-talk-says-hamas-office-in-doha-no-longer-serves-its-purpose-774863">Hamas says 'not received' request to leave Qatar amid reports of Doha backing out of Gaza truce talks</a>

<h2>'Partial, biased data'</h2>

Israel, however, contends that researchers were relying on “partial, biased data” and maintains that its aid efforts have increased, including the opening of an additional crossing on Friday to allow aid into the region.

“Unfortunately, the researchers continue to rely on partial, biased data and superficial sources with vested interests,” said the Israeli military in a statement.

The United States on Saturday acknowledged the urgency underscored by the FRC's alert. A US State Department spokesperson on Saturday that Washington was “concerned about the limited amount of aid reaching civilians living in Gaza” and that it was urging Israel to facilitate humanitarian aid entry and delivery. Previously, the US had warned Israel that failing to improve humanitarian conditions could lead to restrictions on military cooperation.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-of-potential-war-expansion-says-conflicts-could-spread-beyond-the-middle-east-774837">Iran warns of potential 'war expansion,' says conflicts could spread beyond the Middle East</a>

“We have and will continue to make clear to Israel that they must do more to facilitate aid entry and delivery inside Gaza,” said the spokesperson.

<h2>Hostage families rally for deal</h2>

Meanwhile, the families of hostages still held in Gaza held a rally on Saturday, pressing for an immediate hostage deal and voicing frustration with Qatar's withdrawal as a mediator.

Qatar, which has mediated in previous talks, announced it would pause its role until Hamas and Israel show “seriousness” in talks.

These developments come as official counts from the territory's health ministry report over 43,500 fatalities in Gaza, primarily civilians. Additionally, over 1,200 Israeli casualties were reported from the initial Hamas attack.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Saturday (Nov 9) rejected warnings about a potential famine in northern Gaza, where Israel's military campaign against Hamas has led to severe shortages.

Israel on Saturday (Nov 9) rejected warnings about a potential famine in northern Gaza, where Israel's military campaign against Hamas has led to severe shortages. This comes as the independent Famine Review Committee (FRC), on Friday (Nov 8), issued a rare alert that an imminent famine in northern Gaza could unfold without urgent intervention from all parties involved. Meanwhile, as Qatar announced its withdrawal as a mediator in Gaza talks, thousands rallied in Tel Aviv, pressing for an immediate hostage deal. Also read | Hamas says 'not received' request to leave Qatar amid reports of Doha backing out of Gaza truce talks 'Partial, biased data' Israel, however, contends that researchers were relying on “partial, biased data” and maintains that its aid efforts have increased, including the opening of an additional crossing on Friday to allow aid into the region. “Unfortunately, the researchers continue to rely on partial, biased data and superficial sources with vested interests,” said the Israeli military in a statement. The United States on Saturday acknowledged the urgency underscored by the FRC's alert. A US State Department spokesperson on Saturday that Washington was “concerned about the limited amount of aid reaching civilians living in Gaza” and that it was urging Israel to facilitate humanitarian aid entry and delivery. Previously, the US had warned Israel that failing to improve humanitarian conditions could lead to restrictions on military cooperation. Also read | Iran warns of potential 'war expansion,' says conflicts could spread beyond the Middle East “We have and will continue to make clear to Israel that they must do more to facilitate aid entry and delivery inside Gaza,” said the spokesperson. Hostage families rally for deal Meanwhile, the families of hostages still held in Gaza held a rally on Saturday, pressing for an immediate hostage deal and voicing frustration with Qatar's withdrawal as a mediator. Qatar, which has mediated in previous talks, announced it would pause its role until Hamas and Israel show “seriousness” in talks. These developments come as official counts from the territory's health ministry report over 43,500 fatalities in Gaza, primarily civilians. Additionally, over 1,200 Israeli casualties were reported from the initial Hamas attack. (With inputs from agencies)

'Partial, biased data': Israel rejects warnings of impending famine in Gaza

Qatar's foreign ministry on Saturday (Nov 9) confirmed that the nation has paused its role as a key mediator between Israel and Hamas. Citing a lack of “seriousness” from both parties to achieve a ceasefire and hostage release deal, Qatar said it had warned both Israel and Hamas “10 days ago”. The nation has also revealed its conditions for the resumption of the vital talks.

Qatar Suspends Mediation In Israel-Hamas Talks & Hostage Deal

Gaza Civil Defence agency said on Sunday (Nov. 10) that 30 people, including 13 children, were killed in Israeli air strikes on houses in north of the Gaza Strip.

Gaza Civil Defence agency said on Sunday (Nov. 10) that 30 people, including 13 children, were killed in Israeli air strikes on houses in north of the Gaza Strip. The agency said that the first strike hit a house in Jabalia, killing at least 25 people including 13 children. The second strike on the Sabra neighbourhood killed five people, with others still missing in the aftermath, the agency added. 'Looking into reports of strikes' Speaking to the news agency AFP, the Israeli military said that it was looking into the reports of the strikes in Jabalia and Sabra. Since October 6 this year, the Israeli military has been engaged in a withering air and ground assault on areas of northern Gaza, including Jabalia, saying they are seeking to stop Hamas militants from regrouping there. Also read | Qatar confirms suspension of Gaza mediation, says will only resume talks when... The war in Gaza erupted with Hamas's October 7, 2023 sudden attack on southern Israel, which resulted in 1,206 deaths, mostly civilians. Israel's retaliatory campaign has killed more than 43,000 people in Gaza, most of them civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Multiple efforts to have a ceasefire deal between the two sides have so far failed, with Israel and Hamas trading blames for it. Hamas wants an agreement that ends the war and a prisoner-for-hostage deal, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the war will only stop once the Palestinian militant group is eradicated. Qatar to stall efforts to mediate Gaza ceasefire The Israeli air strikes came as Qatar told Hamas and Israel that it would stall its efforts to mediate a ceasefire in the Gaza war and hostage release deal until both sides showed "willingness and seriousness" to resume talks. Also watch | IDF planning to open new crossing near Gaza × Since the war began, Qatar, along with the United States (US) and Egypt, has been working for a ceasefire in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Rescuers say 30, including 13 children, killed in Gaza strikes

The United States (US) has told Qatar that the presence of Hamas in Doha is no longer acceptable in the weeks since the Palestinian militant group rejected the latest proposal to achieve a ceasefire and a hostage deal, reported the news agency Reuters early Saturday (Nov 9) citing an official who chose to remain anonymous.

The United States (US) has told Qatar that the presence of Hamas in Doha is no longer acceptable in the weeks since the Palestinian militant group rejected the latest proposal to achieve a ceasefire and a hostage deal, reported the news agency Reuters early Saturday (Nov 9) citing an official who chose to remain anonymous. Since the war between Israel and Hamas began in October last year, Qatar, along with the US and Egypt, has played a major role in the rounds of so-far fruitless talks to broker a ceasefire. Speaking to Reuters, the official said, "After rejecting repeated proposals to release hostages, its leaders should no longer be welcome in the capitals of any American partner. We made that clear to Qatar following Hamas's rejection weeks ago of another hostage release proposal," the senior official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity." Qatar then made the demand to Hamas leaders about 10 days ago, the official said. Washington has been in touch with Qatar over when to close the group's political office, and it told Doha that now was the time. Hamas' denial Reuters reported that three Hamas officials denied Qatar told the group that it was no longer welcome in the country. Qatar has not commented on the above developments so far and it was unclear if the Qataris provided a specific deadline for Hamas leaders to leave the country. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Nearly 70% of verified deaths in Gaza are women and children, says UN Doha has come under criticism from US lawmakers over its ties with Hamas. Recently, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told leaders in Qatar and elsewhere in the region that there could be "no more business as usual" with Hamas. Qataris told Blinken they were open to reconsidering the presence of Hamas in the country when the time comes. It is not yet known how many Hamas leaders live in Qatar. But they included several leaders touted as possible replacements for Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar, whom Israeli forces killed last month. Republican senators make a request to Washington On Friday, as many as 14 Republican senators wrote a letter to the State Department, asking Washington to immediately freeze the assets of Hamas officials living in Qatar, extradite several senior Hamas officials living in the country and ask Doha to end its hospitality to the Palestinian militant group's senior leadership. Also watch | Race to Power US: How Trump's win could impact the Gaza war? × Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said repeatedly over the last year that the Hamas office existed in Doha to allow negotiations with the group and that as long as the channel remained useful, Qatar would allow the office to remain open. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war truce talks: 'Presence of Hamas in Doha is no longer accepted since...,' US tells Qatar

A committee of global food security experts warned on Friday (Nov 8) that there was a strong chance that famine would rapidly hit parts of the northern Gaza Strip, as the war between Israel and Hamas raged on.

A committee of global food security experts warned on Friday (Nov 8) that there was a strong chance that famine would rapidly hit parts of the northern Gaza Strip, as the war between Israel and Hamas raged on. The Famine Review Committee (FRC) said that it could be "assumed that starvation, malnutrition, and excess mortality due to malnutrition and disease, are rapidly increasing" in north Gaza. "Famine thresholds may have already been crossed or else will be in the near future," the FRC added. "If no effective action is taken by stakeholders with influence, the scale of this looming catastrophe is likely to dwarf anything we have seen so far in the Gaza Strip since 7 October 2023," the committee further said. 'Humanitarian situation in Gaza extremely grave' Israel and Hamas have been fighting a war in the Gaza Strip since October 7 last year. The United Nations (UN) has estimated that there are between 75,000 and 95,000 people still in northern Gaza. Last month, the Israeli military l began a wide military push in northern Gaza. Also read | Gaza war truce talks: 'Presence of Hamas in Doha is no longer accepted since...,' US tells Qatar Addressing a press conference, Associate Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Stephanie Tremblay said, "According to the alert issued by the IPC's Famine Review Committee, there's a strong likelihood that famine is imminent in areas within the northern Gaza Strip. The alert further underscores that the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, as we have just detailed, is extremely grave and rapidly deteriorating." "They're calling for immediate action within days, not weeks. And this action is required from all who are directly taking part in the conflict or who have an influence on its conduct to avert and to alleviate this catastrophic situation," Tremblay added. "We need to ensure that once, that supplies that enter Gaza are able to reach everywhere inside Gaza, to reach all of these people that are desperately in need of assistance. And so we're going to keep advocating for more and more assistance, reaching everywhere and in sufficient quantity," she added. Nearly 70% of deaths in Gaza are women and kids: UN The above developments came as the UN Human Rights Office said on Friday that nearly 70 per cent of the fatalities it has verified in the Gaza war were women and children, and condemned what it called a systematic violation of the fundamental principles of international humanitarian law. The 8,119 victims verified is a much lower number than the toll of more than 43,000 provided by Palestinian health authorities for the 13-month-old war. However, the UN breakdown of the victims' age and gender backs the Palestinian assertion that women and children represent a large portion of those killed in the war.

Israel-Hamas war: Experts say strong chance that famine will rapidly hit parts of north Gaza

Turkey's President Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that he hoped US&nbsp;President-elect Donald Trump will tell Israel to "stop" its war efforts, suggesting a good start would be halting US&nbsp;arms support to Israel.

"Trump has made promises to end conflicts... We want that promise to be fulfilled and for Israel to be told to 'stop'," Erdogan told reporters on a return flight from Budapest, according to an official readout.

"Mr&nbsp;Trump cutting off the arms support provided to Israel could be a good start in order to stop the Israeli aggression in Palestinian and Lebanese lands," he was cited as saying.

Turkey has fiercely criticised Israel's offensives in the Palestinian territory of Gaza and in&nbsp;Lebanon, and has halted trade with Israel as well as applied to join a genocide case against Israel at the World Court. Israel strongly denies the genocide accusations.

Trump's presidency will seriously affect political and military balances in the Middle East region, Erdogan said, adding that pursuing current US&nbsp;policies would deepen deadlock in the region and spread the conflict.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Turkey's President Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that he hoped US President-elect Donald Trump will tell Israel to "stop" its war efforts, suggesting a good start would be halting US arms support to Israel.

Turkey's President Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that he hoped US President-elect Donald Trump will tell Israel to "stop" its war efforts, suggesting a good start would be halting US arms support to Israel. "Trump has made promises to end conflicts... We want that promise to be fulfilled and for Israel to be told to 'stop'," Erdogan told reporters on a return flight from Budapest, according to an official readout. "Mr Trump cutting off the arms support provided to Israel could be a good start in order to stop the Israeli aggression in Palestinian and Lebanese lands," he was cited as saying. Turkey has fiercely criticised Israel's offensives in the Palestinian territory of Gaza and in Lebanon, and has halted trade with Israel as well as applied to join a genocide case against Israel at the World Court. Israel strongly denies the genocide accusations. Trump's presidency will seriously affect political and military balances in the Middle East region, Erdogan said, adding that pursuing current US policies would deepen deadlock in the region and spread the conflict. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hope Trump will tell Israel to stop its war efforts: Turkey's Erdogan

There is anger in Israel over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to replace Defense Minister Yoav Galant. Israeli opposition leaders stepped up their rhetoric against Netanyahu, calling him unfit and illegitimate to serve the country. Watch in for more details!

Israeli Opposition Slams Netanyahu Calls Him 'Unfit'

Israel has officially notified the United Nations that it was severing ties with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), said the Israeli foreign ministry on Monday (Nov 4).

The nation, as per reports, said that it was cancelling the agreement that has regulated its relations with the UNRWA since 1967. The UN aid organisation has provided aid to Palestinian refugees since 1948.&nbsp;

This move follows a law passed by the Knesset recently, barring the agency from operating within Israel and banning Israeli officials from collaborating with it.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiNnem6ocKJAxUWxTgGHcWKC5sQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-parliament-bans-unrwa-claims-un-aid-agency-has-deep-connection-with-hamas-771490" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-parliament-bans-unrwa-claims-un-aid-agency-has-deep-connection-with-hamas-771490&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiNnem6ocKJAxUWxTgGHcWKC5sQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Israeli parliament bans UNRWA, claims UN aid agency has 'deep connection' with Hamas</a>

<h2>Israel-UNRWA tensions</h2>

Israel has long opposed UNRWA's presence and claims that the agency perpetuates refugee status among Palestinians and fosters anti-Israel sentiment. Israel's discontent grew following the October 7 attacks, with Israeli officials claiming that Hamas had infiltrated UNRWA's Gaza operations and alleged that some staff members had been involved in the assault.

Danny Danon, the Israeli Ambassador to the UN in a statement said that despite Israel providing overwhelming evidence "we submitted to the UN highlighting how Hamas infiltrated UNRWA, the UN did nothing to address this reality".

<h2>Ban on UNRWA</h2>

The recent ban has triggered concern among UN leaders and Western allies, who fear that without UNRWA's operations, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza could intensify.&nbsp;

Israel's legislation does not directly stop UNRWA's work in the West Bank and Gaza, areas that remain under Israeli occupation, but it is expected to significantly hinder the agency's ability to work there.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-sends-troops-into-syria-detains-alleged-iranian-terror-network-operative-773042">Israel sends troops into Syria, detains alleged 'Iranian terror network operative'</a>

Even as groups and Israel's allies worry that ending cooperation with UNRWA may destabilise already fragile conditions Israel said that activity by other international organisations would be expanded. "Preparations will be made to end the connection with UNRWA and to boost alternatives to UNRWA," it said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel has officially notified the United Nations that it was severing ties with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), said the Israeli foreign ministry on Monday (Nov 4).

Israel has officially notified the United Nations that it was severing ties with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), said the Israeli foreign ministry on Monday (Nov 4). The nation, as per reports, said that it was cancelling the agreement that has regulated its relations with the UNRWA since 1967. The UN aid organisation has provided aid to Palestinian refugees since 1948. This move follows a law passed by the Knesset recently, barring the agency from operating within Israel and banning Israeli officials from collaborating with it. Also read | Israeli parliament bans UNRWA, claims UN aid agency has 'deep connection' with Hamas Israel-UNRWA tensions Israel has long opposed UNRWA's presence and claims that the agency perpetuates refugee status among Palestinians and fosters anti-Israel sentiment. Israel's discontent grew following the October 7 attacks, with Israeli officials claiming that Hamas had infiltrated UNRWA's Gaza operations and alleged that some staff members had been involved in the assault. Danny Danon, the Israeli Ambassador to the UN in a statement said that despite Israel providing overwhelming evidence "we submitted to the UN highlighting how Hamas infiltrated UNRWA, the UN did nothing to address this reality". Ban on UNRWA The recent ban has triggered concern among UN leaders and Western allies, who fear that without UNRWA's operations, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza could intensify. Israel's legislation does not directly stop UNRWA's work in the West Bank and Gaza, areas that remain under Israeli occupation, but it is expected to significantly hinder the agency's ability to work there. Also read | Israel sends troops into Syria, detains alleged 'Iranian terror network operative' Even as groups and Israel's allies worry that ending cooperation with UNRWA may destabilise already fragile conditions Israel said that activity by other international organisations would be expanded. "Preparations will be made to end the connection with UNRWA and to boost alternatives to UNRWA," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel officially notifies UN of termination of relations with Palestinian relief agency UNRWA

A campus anti-Semitism report, released on Thursday (Oct 31), has&nbsp;revealed that Columbia University paid nearly $400,000 in settlement to a Jewish student suspended for spraying a "fart spray" at an anti-Israel protest. The settlement is part of a broader examination by the US House Committee on Education and the Workforce, which has scrutinised campus responses to incidents following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:101,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1791}">A 'chemical attack'?</h2>

The Columbia incident involved an anti-Israel activist claiming that the spraying incident was a "chemical attack" with "skunk spray," a substance used by Israeli Border Police to disperse protests. The protestors, as per the Times of Israel, also claimed that the alleged attackers were IDF veterans and that they suffered adverse health effects from the spray. This claim led to significant media attention and campus tension.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:228,&quot;w&quot;:520,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1918}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-student-who-stripped-to-protest-harassment-is-arrested-reports-772880">Iranian student, who stripped to protest harassment, is arrested: Reports</a>

The student suspended after the incident sued Columbia in April claiming they were, in the words of the report, "excessively and disproportionately disciplined."

Columbia, as per the House report, also failed to acknowledge that the sprayed substance was merely a novelty "fart spray," not a harmful chemical agent even after seeing receipts for the spray's purchase from Amazon.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:362,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2052}">A novelty item</h2>

The settlement details and corrective actions were part of the findings in the committee's 300-page report on campus anti-Semitism. It, as per the report, requires the university to put out a statement acknowledging that the substance was "a non-toxic, legal, novelty item that can be purchased online and in stores," and not a "biochemical weapon" or "illicit substance."

Columbia released a statement to that effect on Friday (Nov 1) evening before the Labour Day weekend.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-captures-senior-hezbollah-operative-in-north-lebanon-772872">West Asia crisis: Israel captures senior Hezbollah operative in North Lebanon</a>

The University's handling of the case, including its later public clarification and subsequent policy reviews, was highlighted as part of a call for consistent, fair campus policies on discrimination and harassment.

"While this conduct was inappropriate and a violation of University rules meriting discipline, it was also clearly a far less serious incident than characterised by anti-Israel activists or to the public," it said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A campus anti-Semitism report, released on Thursday (Oct 31), has revealed that Columbia University paid nearly $400,000 in settlement to a Jewish student suspended for spraying a "fart spray" at an anti-Israel protest.

A campus anti-Semitism report, released on Thursday (Oct 31), has revealed that Columbia University paid nearly $400,000 in settlement to a Jewish student suspended for spraying a "fart spray" at an anti-Israel protest. The settlement is part of a broader examination by the US House Committee on Education and the Workforce, which has scrutinised campus responses to incidents following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. A 'chemical attack'? The Columbia incident involved an anti-Israel activist claiming that the spraying incident was a "chemical attack" with "skunk spray," a substance used by Israeli Border Police to disperse protests. The protestors, as per the Times of Israel, also claimed that the alleged attackers were IDF veterans and that they suffered adverse health effects from the spray. This claim led to significant media attention and campus tension. Also read | Iranian student, who stripped to protest harassment, is arrested: Reports The student suspended after the incident sued Columbia in April claiming they were, in the words of the report, "excessively and disproportionately disciplined." Columbia, as per the House report, also failed to acknowledge that the sprayed substance was merely a novelty "fart spray," not a harmful chemical agent even after seeing receipts for the spray's purchase from Amazon. A novelty item The settlement details and corrective actions were part of the findings in the committee's 300-page report on campus anti-Semitism. It, as per the report, requires the university to put out a statement acknowledging that the substance was "a non-toxic, legal, novelty item that can be purchased online and in stores," and not a "biochemical weapon" or "illicit substance." Columbia released a statement to that effect on Friday (Nov 1) evening before the Labour Day weekend. Also read | West Asia crisis: Israel captures senior Hezbollah operative in North Lebanon The University's handling of the case, including its later public clarification and subsequent policy reviews, was highlighted as part of a call for consistent, fair campus policies on discrimination and harassment. "While this conduct was inappropriate and a violation of University rules meriting discipline, it was also clearly a far less serious incident than characterised by anti-Israel activists or to the public," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: 'Fart spray' ? Columbia University pays $400,000 settlement to Jewish student. Here's why

The Israeli army released video on Friday (November 1) it says shows the airstrike that killed senior&nbsp;Hamas&nbsp;official Izz al-Din Kassab in the southern Gaza town of Khan Younis.

Reuters was not able to independently verify the location or the date of the video.

Israel described Kassab as one of the last surviving high-ranking members of&nbsp;Hamas&nbsp;responsible for coordinating with other groups in Gaza.

Prospects of a ceasefire between Israel and its foes&nbsp;Hamas&nbsp;and Hezbollah ran aground on Friday as Israeli airstrikes killed at least 68 people in the Gaza Strip, according to medics in the Palestinian enclave, and bombed Beirut's southern suburbs.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Israeli army released video on Friday (November 1) it says shows the airstrike that killed senior Hamas official Izz al-Din Kassab in the southern Gaza town of Khan Younis.

The Israeli army released video on Friday (November 1) it says shows the airstrike that killed senior Hamas official Izz al-Din Kassab in the southern Gaza town of Khan Younis. Reuters was not able to independently verify the location or the date of the video. Israel described Kassab as one of the last surviving high-ranking members of Hamas responsible for coordinating with other groups in Gaza. Prospects of a ceasefire between Israel and its foes Hamas and Hezbollah ran aground on Friday as Israeli airstrikes killed at least 68 people in the Gaza Strip, according to medics in the Palestinian enclave, and bombed Beirut's southern suburbs. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Gaza war: Israel says it killed one of the last high-ranking members of Hamas

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has raised grave concerns, warning that without international intervention, Israel could engage in the "ethnic cleansing" of Gaza.

Guterres's warning comes amid escalating casualties in Gaza. Most recently, on Tuesday (Oct 29) a fatal strike in Beit Lahiya left 93 dead, including many children. This attack is one of several incidents classified by the UN as "mass casualty incidents" in Gaza in the past week.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/temporary-appointment-israels-explosive-message-to-hezbollahs-new-chief-qassem-772055">‘Temporary appointment,’ Israel’s explosive message to Hezbollah’s new chief Qassem</a>

The bombing in Beit Lahiya has drawn condemnation worldwide. The US described it as "horrifying," and France called for an end to Israel's siege of northern Gaza.

Adding to the crisis, humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza have reportedly hit an all-time low since the beginning of the conflict, stoking fears and allegations that the situation may be intended to drive Palestinians out of northern Gaza.

<h2>"Ethnic cleansing" already underway</h2>

Speaking to the Guardian on the sidelines of Colombia's COP16 biodiversity conference, the UN chief commended the Palestinians for their resilience and said that "ethnic cleansing" has been prevented this long because of the people's refusal to succumb.

"The intention might be for the Palestinians to leave Gaza, for others to occupy it," said Guterres.

"We will do everything possible to help them remain there and to avoid ethnic cleansing that might occur if there is not strong determination from the international community," he added.

However, just last week, Jordan's Foreign Minister, Ayman Safadi, told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that he believes "ethnic cleansing" was already underway. However, the Israeli military has denied allegations of systematically forcing Palestinians out of Gaza.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-says-its-lebanon-operations-have-achieved-key-goals-diplomacy-now-possible-771697">IDF says its Lebanon operations have achieved key goals, diplomacy now possible: Report</a>

In Gaza, healthcare systems are on the verge of collapse, with only two partially functional hospitals remaining due to extreme shortages in staff, supplies, and fuel.

UN humanitarian affairs agency, OCHA, in a daily bulletin, said: "Only two … out of 20 health service points and two hospitals, Kamal Adwan and Al-Awda, remain functional, although partially, hampering the delivery of life-saving health services."

The agency's data indicates that 80 per cent of Gaza's population is currently without food rations: "Across the Gaza Strip, October has seen very limited food distribution due to severe supply shortages".

(With inputs from agencies)

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has raised grave concerns, warning that without international intervention, Israel could engage in the "ethnic cleansing" of Gaza.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has raised grave concerns, warning that without international intervention, Israel could engage in the "ethnic cleansing" of Gaza. Guterres's warning comes amid escalating casualties in Gaza. Most recently, on Tuesday (Oct 29) a fatal strike in Beit Lahiya left 93 dead, including many children. This attack is one of several incidents classified by the UN as "mass casualty incidents" in Gaza in the past week. Also read | ‘Temporary appointment,’ Israel’s explosive message to Hezbollah’s new chief Qassem The bombing in Beit Lahiya has drawn condemnation worldwide. The US described it as "horrifying," and France called for an end to Israel's siege of northern Gaza. Adding to the crisis, humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza have reportedly hit an all-time low since the beginning of the conflict, stoking fears and allegations that the situation may be intended to drive Palestinians out of northern Gaza. "Ethnic cleansing" already underway Speaking to the Guardian on the sidelines of Colombia's COP16 biodiversity conference, the UN chief commended the Palestinians for their resilience and said that "ethnic cleansing" has been prevented this long because of the people's refusal to succumb. "The intention might be for the Palestinians to leave Gaza, for others to occupy it," said Guterres. "We will do everything possible to help them remain there and to avoid ethnic cleansing that might occur if there is not strong determination from the international community," he added. However, just last week, Jordan's Foreign Minister, Ayman Safadi, told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that he believes "ethnic cleansing" was already underway. However, the Israeli military has denied allegations of systematically forcing Palestinians out of Gaza. Also read | IDF says its Lebanon operations have achieved key goals, diplomacy now possible: Report In Gaza, healthcare systems are on the verge of collapse, with only two partially functional hospitals remaining due to extreme shortages in staff, supplies, and fuel. UN humanitarian affairs agency, OCHA, in a daily bulletin, said: "Only two … out of 20 health service points and two hospitals, Kamal Adwan and Al-Awda, remain functional, although partially, hampering the delivery of life-saving health services." The agency's data indicates that 80 per cent of Gaza's population is currently without food rations: "Across the Gaza Strip, October has seen very limited food distribution due to severe supply shortages". (With inputs from agencies)

UN Chief António Guterres warns of potential 'ethnic cleansing' in Gaza, calls for global intervention

Israel's UN ambassador, Danny Danon, on Wednesday (Oct 30) called for the resignation of UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese, accusing her of promoting anti-Semitic rhetoric and undermining human rights.

This follows Albanese's remarks to a UN General Assembly committee, in which she claimed that developments in recent months "cement my assessment that Israel is conducting a genocidal campaign against the Palestinians."

<h2>Baseless propaganda</h2>

Danon, posting on X, criticised Albanese's comments as "baseless propaganda and lies," and argued that her position at the UN lends credibility to her allegedly "anti-semantic" views.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-antonio-guterres-warns-of-potential-ethnic-cleansing-in-gaza-calls-for-global-intervention-772154"> UN Chief António Guterres warns of potential 'ethnic cleansing' in Gaza, calls for global intervention</a>

"Once again, the UN has rolled out the red carpet for one of the most anti-Semitic figures in modern history, granting her a stage to spew baseless propaganda and lies," he wrote.

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Once again, the UN has rolled out the red carpet for one of the most antisemitic figures in modern history, granting her a stage to spew baseless propaganda and lies. 
Not a word was said about the 101 hostages still suffering at the hands of Hamas. 
No mention of Hamas or… <a href="https://t.co/f3oiUUvoyA">pic.twitter.com/f3oiUUvoyA</a>
— Danny Danon 🇮🇱 דני דנון (@dannydanon) <a href="https://twitter.com/dannydanon/status/1851659975421985203?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Slamming Albanese directly, he added, "Your presence at the UN is a disgrace, a betrayal of all moral standards. Resign immediately. Leave your credentials at the door and join your friends at Hamas and Hezbollah, where you belong."

<h2>Albanese defends herself</h2>

Albanese, who has faced accusations of bias from Israel and its allies for years, defended her comments in a press briefing on Wednesday, asserting that her focus was on protecting Palestinian rights and was not directed at Judaism or Israel’s right to exist.

"I really don't feel comfortable at entertaining any longer discussions concerning the attacks against me, because it's not about me, and I'm not the story," she said.

Stressing her impartial mandate, she stated: "The story is the fact that there are Palestinians who risk to be erased from their land."

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Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-says-its-lebanon-operations-have-achieved-key-goals-diplomacy-now-possible-771697" target="_blank">IDF says its Lebanon operations have achieved key goals, diplomacy now possible: Report</a>
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Albanese then called Israel's ally, the United States, an "enabler in what Israel has been doing."

Reacting to the statement, US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield labelled Albanese "unfit" for the UN position and said: "The United Nations should not tolerate anti-Semitism from a UN-affiliated official hired to promote human rights".

Israel's UN mission in Geneva joined the criticism, saying Albanese's "distorted reality" reflects a personal bias, accusing her of being a "political activist who abuses an already discriminatory UN mandate".

"According to her hate-filled paradigm, the state of Israel has no historic reason to exist, no right to defend its population, and both the attack of October 7 and the rescue of hostages are merely used by Israel as an excuse."

"This distorted reality is a smokescreen to hide her hatred for Israel," it said.

"As a UN mandate holder, she has breached every possible rule of the UN code of conduct. She must immediately be held accountable for her continuous abuses," it added.

<h2>Why is Albanese under attack?</h2>

Albanese in her latest report, released on Tuesday (Oct 29) claimed that Israel's policies toward Palestinians constitute genocide aimed at displacement.

"The genocide of the Palestinians appears to be the means to an end: the complete removal or eradication of Palestinians from the land so integral to their identity, and which is illegally and openly coveted by Israel."

"Since its establishment, Israel has treated the occupied people as a hated encumbrance and threat to be eradicated, subjecting millions of Palestinians, for generations, to everyday indignities, mass killing, mass incarceration, forced displacement, racial segregation and apartheid," she wrote.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's UN ambassador, Danny Danon, on Wednesday (Oct 30) called for the resignation of UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese, accusing her of promoting anti-Semitic rhetoric and undermining human rights.

Israel's UN ambassador, Danny Danon, on Wednesday (Oct 30) called for the resignation of UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese, accusing her of promoting anti-Semitic rhetoric and undermining human rights. This follows Albanese's remarks to a UN General Assembly committee, in which she claimed that developments in recent months "cement my assessment that Israel is conducting a genocidal campaign against the Palestinians." Baseless propaganda Danon, posting on X, criticised Albanese's comments as "baseless propaganda and lies," and argued that her position at the UN lends credibility to her allegedly "anti-semantic" views. Also read | UN Chief António Guterres warns of potential 'ethnic cleansing' in Gaza, calls for global intervention "Once again, the UN has rolled out the red carpet for one of the most anti-Semitic figures in modern history, granting her a stage to spew baseless propaganda and lies," he wrote. Once again, the UN has rolled out the red carpet for one of the most antisemitic figures in modern history, granting her a stage to spew baseless propaganda and lies. Not a word was said about the 101 hostages still suffering at the hands of Hamas. No mention of Hamas or… pic.twitter.com/f3oiUUvoyA — Danny Danon 🇮🇱 דני דנון (@dannydanon) October 30, 2024 × Slamming Albanese directly, he added, "Your presence at the UN is a disgrace, a betrayal of all moral standards. Resign immediately. Leave your credentials at the door and join your friends at Hamas and Hezbollah, where you belong." Albanese defends herself Albanese, who has faced accusations of bias from Israel and its allies for years, defended her comments in a press briefing on Wednesday, asserting that her focus was on protecting Palestinian rights and was not directed at Judaism or Israel’s right to exist. "I really don't feel comfortable at entertaining any longer discussions concerning the attacks against me, because it's not about me, and I'm not the story," she said. Stressing her impartial mandate, she stated: "The story is the fact that there are Palestinians who risk to be erased from their land." Also read | IDF says its Lebanon operations have achieved key goals, diplomacy now possible: Report Albanese then called Israel's ally, the United States, an "enabler in what Israel has been doing." Reacting to the statement, US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield labelled Albanese "unfit" for the UN position and said: "The United Nations should not tolerate anti-Semitism from a UN-affiliated official hired to promote human rights". Israel's UN mission in Geneva joined the criticism, saying Albanese's "distorted reality" reflects a personal bias, accusing her of being a "political activist who abuses an already discriminatory UN mandate". "According to her hate-filled paradigm, the state of Israel has no historic reason to exist, no right to defend its population, and both the attack of October 7 and the rescue of hostages are merely used by Israel as an excuse." "This distorted reality is a smokescreen to hide her hatred for Israel," it said. "As a UN mandate holder, she has breached every possible rule of the UN code of conduct. She must immediately be held accountable for her continuous abuses," it added. Why is Albanese under attack? Albanese in her latest report, released on Tuesday (Oct 29) claimed that Israel's policies toward Palestinians constitute genocide aimed at displacement. "The genocide of the Palestinians appears to be the means to an end: the complete removal or eradication of Palestinians from the land so integral to their identity, and which is illegally and openly coveted by Israel." "Since its establishment, Israel has treated the occupied people as a hated encumbrance and threat to be eradicated, subjecting millions of Palestinians, for generations, to everyday indignities, mass killing, mass incarceration, forced displacement, racial segregation and apartheid," she wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel demands UN rapporteur Francesca Albanese's resignation over 'genocidal campaign' claims

The United States has delivered a firm warning to Israel regarding its humanitarian responsibilities in Gaza amid rising international concern.&nbsp;

As the 30-day deadline imposed by Washington looms, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US Ambassador to the United Nations, expressed alarm over the "catastrophic humanitarian crisis" in Gaza, stating that "Israel's words must be matched by action on the ground."

"Right now, that is not happening. This must change—immediately," she said.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:167,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2044}">US' deadline</h2>

On October 13, the US told Israel that it must take steps to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza within 30 days or risk losing US military aid, among other potential consequences.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:262,&quot;w&quot;:633,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2139}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-parliament-bans-unrwa-claims-un-aid-agency-has-deep-connection-with-hamas-771490">Israeli parliament bans UNRWA, claims UN aid agency has 'deep connection' with Hamas</a>

This demand coincides with Israel's recent legislative move to restrict operations of the UN Palestinian relief agency, UNRWA, which provides critical health and educational support to Palestinians. Israel's parliament has voted to prevent UNRWA from operating in areas like East Jerusalem and parts of Gaza and the West Bank, citing concerns over the agency's alleged ties to Hamas.

Linda Thomas-Greenfield urged immediate action to provide necessary aid such as food and medicine, especially to northern Gaza, and safeguard aid workers in the region.

"The US has stated clearly that Israel must allow food, medicine and other supplies into all of Gaza – especially the north, and especially as winter sets in—and protect the workers distributing it," she said.

Thomas-Greenfield added that the US had "real concerns" about the UNRWA ban passed by Israel's Knesset, and that there was no alternative to the organization for delivering aid to Gaza.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:531,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2408}">Norway concerned about UNRWA ban</h2>

The Scandinavian country&nbsp;has announced plans to petition the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to clarify Israel's obligations as an occupying power in supporting humanitarian aid. Norway's Prime Minister, Jonas Gahr Støre, in a statement, said that his country was "requesting that the ICJ pronounces on Israel's obligations to facilitate humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian population, delivered by international organisations, including the UN and states".

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:677,&quot;w&quot;:677,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2554}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-says-its-lebanon-operations-have-achieved-key-goals-diplomacy-now-possible-771697">IDF says its Lebanon operations have achieved key goals, diplomacy now possible: Report</a>

Other European nations, including the UK, Ireland, and Germany, have also condemned the restrictions on UNRWA, with some officials considering potential sanctions or reviews of trade relations with Israel if the legislation takes effect.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres also called on Israel "to act consistently with its obligations" under the UN charter and international law, and stressed that "National legislation cannot alter those obligations."

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States has delivered a firm warning to Israel regarding its humanitarian responsibilities in Gaza amid rising international concern. As the 30-day deadline imposed by Washington looms, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US Ambassador to the United Nations, expressed alarm over the "catastrophic humanitarian crisis" in Gaza, stating that "Israel's words must be matched by action on the ground.

The United States has delivered a firm warning to Israel regarding its humanitarian responsibilities in Gaza amid rising international concern. As the 30-day deadline imposed by Washington looms, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US Ambassador to the United Nations, expressed alarm over the "catastrophic humanitarian crisis" in Gaza, stating that "Israel's words must be matched by action on the ground." "Right now, that is not happening. This must change—immediately," she said. US' deadline On October 13, the US told Israel that it must take steps to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza within 30 days or risk losing US military aid, among other potential consequences. Also read | Israeli parliament bans UNRWA, claims UN aid agency has 'deep connection' with Hamas This demand coincides with Israel's recent legislative move to restrict operations of the UN Palestinian relief agency, UNRWA, which provides critical health and educational support to Palestinians. Israel's parliament has voted to prevent UNRWA from operating in areas like East Jerusalem and parts of Gaza and the West Bank, citing concerns over the agency's alleged ties to Hamas. Linda Thomas-Greenfield urged immediate action to provide necessary aid such as food and medicine, especially to northern Gaza, and safeguard aid workers in the region. "The US has stated clearly that Israel must allow food, medicine and other supplies into all of Gaza – especially the north, and especially as winter sets in—and protect the workers distributing it," she said. Thomas-Greenfield added that the US had "real concerns" about the UNRWA ban passed by Israel's Knesset, and that there was no alternative to the organization for delivering aid to Gaza. Norway concerned about UNRWA ban The Scandinavian country has announced plans to petition the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to clarify Israel's obligations as an occupying power in supporting humanitarian aid. Norway's Prime Minister, Jonas Gahr Støre, in a statement, said that his country was "requesting that the ICJ pronounces on Israel's obligations to facilitate humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian population, delivered by international organisations, including the UN and states". Also read | IDF says its Lebanon operations have achieved key goals, diplomacy now possible: Report Other European nations, including the UK, Ireland, and Germany, have also condemned the restrictions on UNRWA, with some officials considering potential sanctions or reviews of trade relations with Israel if the legislation takes effect. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also called on Israel "to act consistently with its obligations" under the UN charter and international law, and stressed that "National legislation cannot alter those obligations." (With inputs from agencies)

America's 30-day deadline looms: US presses Israel to address Gaza humanitarian crisis or risk losing aid

Israel's parliament on Monday (Oct 28) passed a bill effectively banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within the country's borders and in occupied East Jerusalem, sparking widespread international backlash.&nbsp;

The move marks a major disruption for the agency, which has provided healthcare, education, and humanitarian aid to Palestinian refugees for over seven decades.&nbsp;

It comes as Israeli lawmakers claim that the UN agency has a "deep connection" with the militant group Hamas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:181,&quot;w&quot;:547,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1866}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-submits-750-page-genocide-evidence-against-israel-in-icj-case-771480">South Africa submits 750-page 'genocide' evidence against Israel in ICJ case</a>

Yuli Edelstein, one of the bill's sponsors, argued, "There is a deep connection between the terrorist organisation (Hamas) and UNRWA and Israel cannot put up with it."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:267,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1952}">Hamas reacts to the ban</h2>

Slamming the ban, Palestinian militant group Hamas called the bill an act of "Zionist aggression" towards Palestinians. while&nbsp;Hamas ally Islamic Jihad said the ban was "an escalation in the genocide".

UNRWA chief, Philippe Lazzarini, calling it a continuation of "a campaign to discredit the agency," warned it "will only deepen the suffering of Palestinians".

Israel's international allies also voiced their concern. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the UK is "gravely concerned," while Germany cautioned that the measure would "effectively make UNRWA's work in Gaza, the West Bank and east Jerusalem impossible… jeopardising vital humanitarian aid for millions of people".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-netanyahu-claims-iran-amassing-nuclear-stockpile-hezbollah-fires-projectiles-into-israel-771466">West Asia crisis: Netanyahu claims Iran amassing nuclear 'stockpile'; Hezbollah fires projectiles into Israel</a>

However, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on social media assured that his country was "ready" to continue humanitarian aid in ways "that does not threaten Israel's security".

"UNRWA workers involved in terrorist activities against Israel must be held accountable. Since avoiding a humanitarian crisis is also essential, sustained humanitarian aid must remain available in Gaza now and in the future," he wrote.

"In the 90 days before this legislation takes effect—and after—we stand ready to work with our international partners to ensure Israel continues to facilitate humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza in a way that does not threaten Israel’s security,"&nbsp;Netanyahu added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's parliament on Monday (Oct 28) passed a bill effectively banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within the country's borders and in occupied East Jerusalem, sparking widespread international backlash.

Israel's parliament on Monday (Oct 28) passed a bill effectively banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within the country's borders and in occupied East Jerusalem, sparking widespread international backlash. The move marks a major disruption for the agency, which has provided healthcare, education, and humanitarian aid to Palestinian refugees for over seven decades. It comes as Israeli lawmakers claim that the UN agency has a "deep connection" with the militant group Hamas. Also read | South Africa submits 750-page 'genocide' evidence against Israel in ICJ case Yuli Edelstein, one of the bill's sponsors, argued, "There is a deep connection between the terrorist organisation (Hamas) and UNRWA and Israel cannot put up with it." Hamas reacts to the ban Slamming the ban, Palestinian militant group Hamas called the bill an act of "Zionist aggression" towards Palestinians. while Hamas ally Islamic Jihad said the ban was "an escalation in the genocide". UNRWA chief, Philippe Lazzarini, calling it a continuation of "a campaign to discredit the agency," warned it "will only deepen the suffering of Palestinians". Israel's international allies also voiced their concern. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the UK is "gravely concerned," while Germany cautioned that the measure would "effectively make UNRWA's work in Gaza, the West Bank and east Jerusalem impossible… jeopardising vital humanitarian aid for millions of people". Also read | West Asia crisis: Netanyahu claims Iran amassing nuclear 'stockpile'; Hezbollah fires projectiles into Israel However, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on social media assured that his country was "ready" to continue humanitarian aid in ways "that does not threaten Israel's security". "UNRWA workers involved in terrorist activities against Israel must be held accountable. Since avoiding a humanitarian crisis is also essential, sustained humanitarian aid must remain available in Gaza now and in the future," he wrote. "In the 90 days before this legislation takes effect—and after—we stand ready to work with our international partners to ensure Israel continues to facilitate humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza in a way that does not threaten Israel’s security," Netanyahu added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli parliament bans UNRWA, claims UN aid agency has 'deep connection' with Hamas

Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader, as per reports may have given his men the order to kill all Oct 7 Israeli hostages in the event of his death, warned Israel's leading hostage negotiator Gershon Baskin.

In a conversation with The Telegraph, Baskin — who in 2011 saw the release of Sinwar along with 1,026 other Palestinian prisoners in exchange for kidnapped Israeli soldier Gilad Shilat — warned "It is a moment of either opportunity or a moment of doom".

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:135,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1821}">'Opportunity or doom'</h2>

The hostage negotiator explained that Sinwar's death could be a "moment of doom," because there were "rumours that Sinwar instructed people holding hostages that, should he be killed, they should kill their hostages."

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:247,&quot;w&quot;:675,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1933}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-confirms-death-of-nasrallahs-heir-apparent-sayyed-hashem-safieddine-769875">West Asia crisis: Israel confirms death of Nasrallah's heir apparent Sayyed Hashem Safieddine</a>

Baskin said that while it was not possible to confirm or deny the rumour, it should be taken "seriously" given that the group had no qualms about executing six hostages. In late August, the six hostages were killed execution-style after the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) closed in on the tunnel where they were being held.

"We saw the six hostages killed when Israel was entering the tunnel. That could be the case now. We just don't know," he stated.

Sinwar was killed on Oct 16 (last week) and at the time of his elimination, Hamas still had 101 Israeli hostages in captivity. Of these, at least 60 are believed to still be alive.

After Sinwar's killing, the Hamas fighters, as per the report, are being led by his brother Muhammad, which further complicates the matter. &nbsp;

According to the hostage negotiator, this could also be a "moment of opportunity" for Israel.

The nation in the absence of Sinwar's leadership "should be issuing a very clear call that anyone who’s holding a hostage that releases them will be given free passage for themselves and their family out of Gaza to another country, as well as a lot of money."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-takes-sole-responsibility-for-targeting-netanyahus-residence-says-there-would-be-no-negotiations-769842">Hezbollah takes ‘sole responsibility’ for targeting Netanyahu’s residence; says there would be no negotiations</a>

"In order to encourage them to do that, Israel should also be reaching out to Egypt and Qatar and tell them to renew the negotiations quickly, not on the deal that’s been negotiated without success for almost four months, but on a deal that would bring the hostages home quicker and would obviously require Israel to end the war."

However, he added that this "unfortunately," won't happen "unless president [Joe] Biden weighs in very heavily and makes sure that Netanyahu agrees to end the war, because, without that, Netanyahu won't end the war."

Baskin expressed his confidence that the US had the necessary "leverage" to force a ceasefire but added sceptically, "the question is if they're willing to use it".

(With inputs from agencies)

Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader, as per reports may have given his men the order to kill all Oct 7 Israeli hostages in the event of his death, warned Israel's leading hostage negotiator Gershon Baskin.

Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader, as per reports may have given his men the order to kill all Oct 7 Israeli hostages in the event of his death, warned Israel's leading hostage negotiator Gershon Baskin. In a conversation with The Telegraph, Baskin — who in 2011 saw the release of Sinwar along with 1,026 other Palestinian prisoners in exchange for kidnapped Israeli soldier Gilad Shilat — warned "It is a moment of either opportunity or a moment of doom". 'Opportunity or doom' The hostage negotiator explained that Sinwar's death could be a "moment of doom," because there were "rumours that Sinwar instructed people holding hostages that, should he be killed, they should kill their hostages." Also read | West Asia crisis: Israel confirms death of Nasrallah's heir apparent Sayyed Hashem Safieddine Baskin said that while it was not possible to confirm or deny the rumour, it should be taken "seriously" given that the group had no qualms about executing six hostages. In late August, the six hostages were killed execution-style after the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) closed in on the tunnel where they were being held. "We saw the six hostages killed when Israel was entering the tunnel. That could be the case now. We just don't know," he stated. Sinwar was killed on Oct 16 (last week) and at the time of his elimination, Hamas still had 101 Israeli hostages in captivity. Of these, at least 60 are believed to still be alive. After Sinwar's killing, the Hamas fighters, as per the report, are being led by his brother Muhammad, which further complicates the matter. According to the hostage negotiator, this could also be a "moment of opportunity" for Israel. The nation in the absence of Sinwar's leadership "should be issuing a very clear call that anyone who’s holding a hostage that releases them will be given free passage for themselves and their family out of Gaza to another country, as well as a lot of money." Also read | Hezbollah takes ‘sole responsibility’ for targeting Netanyahu’s residence; says there would be no negotiations "In order to encourage them to do that, Israel should also be reaching out to Egypt and Qatar and tell them to renew the negotiations quickly, not on the deal that’s been negotiated without success for almost four months, but on a deal that would bring the hostages home quicker and would obviously require Israel to end the war." However, he added that this "unfortunately," won't happen "unless president [Joe] Biden weighs in very heavily and makes sure that Netanyahu agrees to end the war, because, without that, Netanyahu won't end the war." Baskin expressed his confidence that the US had the necessary "leverage" to force a ceasefire but added sceptically, "the question is if they're willing to use it". (With inputs from agencies)

Did Sinwar order Hamas to kill all hostages in case of his death? Israel's top hostage negotiator said this...

<h2>The war expands in south: Humanitarian crisis deepens</h2>

As intense fighting spreads to southern Gaza, the people of Gaza being told to evacuate are finding themselves in deeper crisis, as there is no safe place to go. The truce collapsed on December 1, 2023, with both sides blaming each other. Israeli military launched operations in Khan Younis, Gaza's second largest city, declaring it as combat zone and calling it "the most intense day since the beginning of the ground operation", besides continuing strikes on northern Gaza. Hamas too is responding with rocket fire on border cities of Israel to register its existence. Caught in the crossfire, it’s distressing news for hostages and civilians of one of the most populated region of the world, who are blockaded in a land that is left with no safe zones.

Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Over 16,200 killed in Gaza; situation getting worse in Gaza: WHO

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Although, most rational voices condemn the brutal, barbaric, terror attack by Hamas on October 7, and felt Israel's actions against Hamas was justified, but the scale, cost and methodology of Israeli response, causing fourteen times more Palestinian civilian casualties (Approximately over 16000 in comparison to over 1200 Israelis killed so far) and large scale forced displacement of people has invited global criticism including from its closest ally United States, for violation of International Humanitarian Law. The violence and casualties in West Bank are complicating the situation further.

Despite Israel Defense Forces (IDF) maintaining that ‘it doesn’t target civilians’, reports of mounting casualties have caused concern everywhere, including in the USA, which expects Israel to do more to protect civilians in pursuance of its legitimate military objectives in Gaza.&nbsp;

After US announced new visa ban on Israeli settlers involved in violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, Israel responded with assurance of being open to "constructive feedback" from the US and the United Nations, without altering the pace and methodology of its operations.&nbsp;

<h2>Opposing strategies and outcomes</h2>

As per Netanyahu, Israel’s objective in this war is to eliminate Hamas completely, ensure that its citizens are never again threatened by an attack from Gaza and to ensure release the hostages. He thinks that it can be done by military action and has pulled back Israeli team from negotiations in Qatar.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-enters-west-asia-powerplay-in-rare-wartime-visit-to-uae-saudi-arabia-666888">Putin enters West Asia powerplay in rare wartime visit to UAE, Saudi Arabia</a>

The level of force used and the scale of destruction being caused indicates that his undeclared aim is to make Gaza uninhabitable and force Palestinians out of Gaza, as its extremely difficult to identify Hamas in such heavily populated enclave and selectively destroy the fighters. To minimise own casualties, IDF has chosen the strategy of mass destruction and pulverising targets/buildings alleged to be hideouts of Hamas.

The strategy of Hamas on October 7 was to capture maximum number of hostages to be used as bargaining chip. The embarrassment led to heavy military response from Israel.

Hamas also expected support from Arab countries, radical Islamic countries and organisations and slow down normalisation of relations between some Arab countries and Israel. The objective has not been fully achieved as Arab countries have voiced support to Palestinians and not Hamas.&nbsp;

In past, Israel has finished wars within days. The 1967 war was finished in six days. Yom Kippur war was done and dusted in 19 days. But the current conflict has been going on for nearly two months. Complete destruction of Hamas is nowhere in sight. In spite of Israeli efforts towards eliminating Hamas, the militant group appears to have survived the initial Israeli onslaught. Only about 5,000 Hamas fighters killed in the conflict out of 30,000 soldiers of its military wing.&nbsp;

Total elimination of Hamas is overambitious because its an ideology brewed out of subjugation of population confined into bounds of Gaza, with airspace, maritime space, six exit points and inflow of essential services controlled by Israel.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-hears-shocking-accounts-of-sexual-violence-by-hamas-during-oct-7-attacks-666798">UN hears shocking accounts of sexual violence by Hamas during Oct 7 attacks</a>

With growing hatred towards Israel due to unprecedented casualties, the ideology is unlikely to die down. Moreover, many Hamas leaders are outside Gaza, away from immediate strike range of Israel. They will hence, survive even after possible destruction of Gaza carried out with an aim to annihilate Hamas. While Israel may be able to comb Gaza to reduce striking capability of Hamas. It will make itself and its people more insecure in the long run towards terror attacks within and outside Israel.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has rightly warned that failure to protect Palestinian civilians could lead to ‘strategic defeat’.

<h2>Who will control Gaza after war?</h2>

While Israel is planning to have a buffer zone or a security envelope along Gaza border, inside Gaza to prevent Hamas being positioned on the border, but it may not be easy as world opinion is shifting against Israel and is inclined for the Two-State solution.&nbsp;

Even Israel’s closest ally USA, which is insisting on two-state solution, has laid down five principles for the future of Gaza, as its vice-president said “No forcible displacement of the Palestinian people, no reoccupation of Gaza, no siege or blockade, no reduction in territory, and no use of Gaza as a platform for terrorism”.

The idea of Gaza ruled by the Palestinian Authority (PA) has own drawbacks due to the lack of credibility of PA leaders. There haven't been elections after 2005, and they do not represent the people of Gaza. Governance under a UN stabilisation mission, till elections are held, could be an option, but will Israel agree to completely vacate Gaza remains a question. With angry population, the Israeli occupation of Gaza will be marred by risk of frequent insurgent attacks. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>The Future of Two-State Solution</h2>

While Israel and Palestinians both have legitimate right to live, have a homeland, govern and defend themselves, lack of accommodation of these rights within the boundaries of Israel, West Bank and Gaza Strip remains a problem that has led to bloodshed for decades. Every peacemaker including the US is talking of two-state solution. But how to divide the landmass into two states? Both sides want East Jerusalem, because Palestinians can’t compromise on al-Aqsa Mosque (Third holiest shrine for Islam) and Jews can’t compromise on Temple Mount or Western Wall (the holiest site in Judaism).&nbsp;

The complexities of Palestinian enclaves embedded by Israeli settlements in the West Bank and their continued encroachment, makes it impractical for anyone of them to vacate their enclaves, complicating the situation further.

<h2>Way ahead</h2>

The strong US support to Israel in the initial stages has avoided direct involvement of any other country in the war. Although groups like Hezbollah and Houthis did show some support with standoff attacks.&nbsp;

The Arab countries have expressed support for Hamas, condemned Israel for violating International Humanitarian laws and excessive civilian casualties, but no one has directly entered the conflict. Considering the responses so far, it appears that this conflict may not expand into larger regional conflict.&nbsp;

This conflict has further divided the global power blocks with USA and Israel getting increasingly isolated. Most of the world and the UN is raising concerns amid unprecedented casualties and USA seems to be doing damage control internally and externally, short of stopping the Israeli offensive. The number of women and children killed in less than two months has exceeded two years of those killed in Russia-Ukraine War, which violates self-defence logic.&nbsp;

The war may end with Israeli combing operations in destroyed Gaza. It may also be claimed as victory by Israel. It may work as face-saver for Israeli government, but Israel can neither hope to be safe nor peaceful in the long term. In counter-terror operations, people are centre of gravity. The next generation of Hamas will arise, with a frustrated populace demanding revenge. Until a two-state solution that is acceptable to both parties is reached, the Israel-Palestine conflict will persist, albeit in an active insurgent form, for an extended period of time.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

The war expands in south: Humanitarian crisis deepens As intense fighting spreads to southern Gaza, the people of Gaza being told to evacuate are finding themselves in deeper crisis, as there is no safe place to go.

The war expands in south: Humanitarian crisis deepens As intense fighting spreads to southern Gaza, the people of Gaza being told to evacuate are finding themselves in deeper crisis, as there is no safe place to go. The truce collapsed on December 1, 2023, with both sides blaming each other. Israeli military launched operations in Khan Younis, Gaza's second largest city, declaring it as combat zone and calling it "the most intense day since the beginning of the ground operation", besides continuing strikes on northern Gaza. Hamas too is responding with rocket fire on border cities of Israel to register its existence. Caught in the crossfire, it’s distressing news for hostages and civilians of one of the most populated region of the world, who are blockaded in a land that is left with no safe zones. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Over 16,200 killed in Gaza; situation getting worse in Gaza: WHO × Although, most rational voices condemn the brutal, barbaric, terror attack by Hamas on October 7, and felt Israel's actions against Hamas was justified, but the scale, cost and methodology of Israeli response, causing fourteen times more Palestinian civilian casualties (Approximately over 16000 in comparison to over 1200 Israelis killed so far) and large scale forced displacement of people has invited global criticism including from its closest ally United States, for violation of International Humanitarian Law. The violence and casualties in West Bank are complicating the situation further. Despite Israel Defense Forces (IDF) maintaining that ‘it doesn’t target civilians’, reports of mounting casualties have caused concern everywhere, including in the USA, which expects Israel to do more to protect civilians in pursuance of its legitimate military objectives in Gaza. After US announced new visa ban on Israeli settlers involved in violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, Israel responded with assurance of being open to "constructive feedback" from the US and the United Nations, without altering the pace and methodology of its operations. Opposing strategies and outcomes As per Netanyahu, Israel’s objective in this war is to eliminate Hamas completely, ensure that its citizens are never again threatened by an attack from Gaza and to ensure release the hostages. He thinks that it can be done by military action and has pulled back Israeli team from negotiations in Qatar. Also Read | Putin enters West Asia powerplay in rare wartime visit to UAE, Saudi Arabia The level of force used and the scale of destruction being caused indicates that his undeclared aim is to make Gaza uninhabitable and force Palestinians out of Gaza, as its extremely difficult to identify Hamas in such heavily populated enclave and selectively destroy the fighters. To minimise own casualties, IDF has chosen the strategy of mass destruction and pulverising targets/buildings alleged to be hideouts of Hamas. The strategy of Hamas on October 7 was to capture maximum number of hostages to be used as bargaining chip. The embarrassment led to heavy military response from Israel. Hamas also expected support from Arab countries, radical Islamic countries and organisations and slow down normalisation of relations between some Arab countries and Israel. The objective has not been fully achieved as Arab countries have voiced support to Palestinians and not Hamas. In past, Israel has finished wars within days. The 1967 war was finished in six days. Yom Kippur war was done and dusted in 19 days. But the current conflict has been going on for nearly two months. Complete destruction of Hamas is nowhere in sight. In spite of Israeli efforts towards eliminating Hamas, the militant group appears to have survived the initial Israeli onslaught. Only about 5,000 Hamas fighters killed in the conflict out of 30,000 soldiers of its military wing. Total elimination of Hamas is overambitious because its an ideology brewed out of subjugation of population confined into bounds of Gaza, with airspace, maritime space, six exit points and inflow of essential services controlled by Israel. Also Read | UN hears shocking accounts of sexual violence by Hamas during Oct 7 attacks With growing hatred towards Israel due to unprecedented casualties, the ideology is unlikely to die down. Moreover, many Hamas leaders are outside Gaza, away from immediate strike range of Israel. They will hence, survive even after possible destruction of Gaza carried out with an aim to annihilate Hamas. While Israel may be able to comb Gaza to reduce striking capability of Hamas. It will make itself and its people more insecure in the long run towards terror attacks within and outside Israel. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has rightly warned that failure to protect Palestinian civilians could lead to ‘strategic defeat’. Who will control Gaza after war? While Israel is planning to have a buffer zone or a security envelope along Gaza border, inside Gaza to prevent Hamas being positioned on the border, but it may not be easy as world opinion is shifting against Israel and is inclined for the Two-State solution. Even Israel’s closest ally USA, which is insisting on two-state solution, has laid down five principles for the future of Gaza, as its vice-president said “No forcible displacement of the Palestinian people, no reoccupation of Gaza, no siege or blockade, no reduction in territory, and no use of Gaza as a platform for terrorism”. The idea of Gaza ruled by the Palestinian Authority (PA) has own drawbacks due to the lack of credibility of PA leaders. There haven't been elections after 2005, and they do not represent the people of Gaza. Governance under a UN stabilisation mission, till elections are held, could be an option, but will Israel agree to completely vacate Gaza remains a question. With angry population, the Israeli occupation of Gaza will be marred by risk of frequent insurgent attacks. The Future of Two-State Solution While Israel and Palestinians both have legitimate right to live, have a homeland, govern and defend themselves, lack of accommodation of these rights within the boundaries of Israel, West Bank and Gaza Strip remains a problem that has led to bloodshed for decades. Every peacemaker including the US is talking of two-state solution. But how to divide the landmass into two states? Both sides want East Jerusalem, because Palestinians can’t compromise on al-Aqsa Mosque (Third holiest shrine for Islam) and Jews can’t compromise on Temple Mount or Western Wall (the holiest site in Judaism). The complexities of Palestinian enclaves embedded by Israeli settlements in the West Bank and their continued encroachment, makes it impractical for anyone of them to vacate their enclaves, complicating the situation further. Way ahead The strong US support to Israel in the initial stages has avoided direct involvement of any other country in the war. Although groups like Hezbollah and Houthis did show some support with standoff attacks. The Arab countries have expressed support for Hamas, condemned Israel for violating International Humanitarian laws and excessive civilian casualties, but no one has directly entered the conflict. Considering the responses so far, it appears that this conflict may not expand into larger regional conflict. This conflict has further divided the global power blocks with USA and Israel getting increasingly isolated. Most of the world and the UN is raising concerns amid unprecedented casualties and USA seems to be doing damage control internally and externally, short of stopping the Israeli offensive. The number of women and children killed in less than two months has exceeded two years of those killed in Russia-Ukraine War, which violates self-defence logic. The war may end with Israeli combing operations in destroyed Gaza. It may also be claimed as victory by Israel. It may work as face-saver for Israeli government, but Israel can neither hope to be safe nor peaceful in the long term. In counter-terror operations, people are centre of gravity. The next generation of Hamas will arise, with a frustrated populace demanding revenge. Until a two-state solution that is acceptable to both parties is reached, the Israel-Palestine conflict will persist, albeit in an active insurgent form, for an extended period of time. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Crisis deepens as war spreads to south Gaza: Evaluating outcomes against realities

One of the&nbsp;senior-most Israeli army commanders has been killed in Northern Gaza, announced the Israel military on Sunday (Oct 20).

Colonel Ahsan Daksa, commander of the 401st Brigade, was killed in an explosion in northern Gaza during an operation targeting Hamas. Another battalion commander and two officers suffered minor injuries in the same attack.&nbsp;

The incident occurred in the Jabalia area, where the officers stepped outside "to observe the area and were struck by an explosive," said military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari in a briefing.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strikes-on-northern-gaza-kills-at-least-87-as-beirut-attack-continues-769226">Israeli strikes on northern Gaza kill at least 87 as Beirut attack continues</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:185,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2022}">'A hero' killed while fighting terrorists</h2>

In a statement, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said that Daksa was killed "while fighting Hamas terrorists".

Israel President Isaac Herzog said Daska was "a hero" and that his death was a "loss to Israel and for Israeli society".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Iran military, in an update on X, said that "Ehsan Daxa, the senior terrorist who commanded the 401st Brigade of the Zionist cult, has been neutralized by our Palestinian brothers while committing genocide in northern Gaza today."

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Ehsan Daxa, the senior terrorist who commanded the 401st Brigade of the Zionist cult, has been neutralized by our Palestinian brothers while committing genocide in northern Gaza today. <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:326,&quot;y&quot;:491,&quot;w&quot;:161,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:359,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2328}" href="https://t.co/5HTOelUZ1J">pic.twitter.com/5HTOelUZ1J</a>
— Iran Military (@IRIran_Military) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:440,&quot;y&quot;:519,&quot;w&quot;:100,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:473,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2356}" href="https://twitter.com/IRIran_Military/status/1848052475254685879?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Daksa, a Druze officer, had only been appointed as brigade commander four months prior and is considered one of the highest-ranking military officials to be killed in the ongoing Gaza conflict.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollahs-senior-leader-naim-qassem-flees-lebanon-fearing-death-who-is-he-769283">Hezbollah’s senior leader Naim Qassem flees Lebanon fearing death. Who is he?</a>

His brigade was leading the assault in Jabalia, which has been the focus of intense Israeli military operations against Hamas militants. Since the ground offensive began on October 27, 2023, Israel has suffered 358 military casualties — including Daksa.&nbsp;

The death toll from the ongoing assault in Jabalia and northern Gaza exceeds 400 in the Hamas-run territory, according to local civil defense authorities, as Israeli forces continue to target Hamas positions.

(With inputs from agencies)

One of the senior-most Israeli army commanders has been killed in Northern Gaza, announced the Israel military on Sunday (Oct 20). Colonel Ahsan Daksa, commander of the 401st Brigade, was killed in an explosion in northern Gaza during an operation targeting Hamas.

One of the senior-most Israeli army commanders has been killed in Northern Gaza, announced the Israel military on Sunday (Oct 20). Colonel Ahsan Daksa, commander of the 401st Brigade, was killed in an explosion in northern Gaza during an operation targeting Hamas. Another battalion commander and two officers suffered minor injuries in the same attack. The incident occurred in the Jabalia area, where the officers stepped outside "to observe the area and were struck by an explosive," said military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari in a briefing. Also read | Israeli strikes on northern Gaza kill at least 87 as Beirut attack continues 'A hero' killed while fighting terrorists In a statement, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said that Daksa was killed "while fighting Hamas terrorists". Israel President Isaac Herzog said Daska was "a hero" and that his death was a "loss to Israel and for Israeli society". Meanwhile, the Iran military, in an update on X, said that "Ehsan Daxa, the senior terrorist who commanded the 401st Brigade of the Zionist cult, has been neutralized by our Palestinian brothers while committing genocide in northern Gaza today." Ehsan Daxa, the senior terrorist who commanded the 401st Brigade of the Zionist cult, has been neutralized by our Palestinian brothers while committing genocide in northern Gaza today. pic.twitter.com/5HTOelUZ1J — Iran Military (@IRIran_Military) October 20, 2024 × Daksa, a Druze officer, had only been appointed as brigade commander four months prior and is considered one of the highest-ranking military officials to be killed in the ongoing Gaza conflict. Also read | Hezbollah’s senior leader Naim Qassem flees Lebanon fearing death. Who is he? His brigade was leading the assault in Jabalia, which has been the focus of intense Israeli military operations against Hamas militants. Since the ground offensive began on October 27, 2023, Israel has suffered 358 military casualties — including Daksa. The death toll from the ongoing assault in Jabalia and northern Gaza exceeds 400 in the Hamas-run territory, according to local civil defense authorities, as Israeli forces continue to target Hamas positions. (With inputs from agencies)

Top Israeli commander killed in Gaza blast, three others wounded in Hamas offensive

The United States on Saturday (Oct 19) called for Israel to scale back its strikes on Beirut, Lebanon, citing the rising civilian death toll as "far too high".&nbsp;

Just hours after Israel carried out heavy strikes on Hezbollah positions in the southern suburbs of the capital, sending plumes of smoke billowing over the city, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said: "We'd like to see Israel scale back on some of the strikes it's taking, especially in and around Beirut".

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:135,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1972}">'We'd like to see things transition': US</h2>

Speaking at a G7 defence meeting in Naples, Italy, Austin urged a shift towards negotiations to enable civilians on both sides of the Lebanon-Israel border to return home safely.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:229,&quot;w&quot;:707,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2066}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-us-forces-directly-involved-pentagon-clarifies-role-in-hamas-leader-yahya-sinwars-death-769092">'No US&nbsp;forces directly involved': Pentagon clarifies role in Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar’s death</a>

"We'd like to see things transition to some sort of negotiation that will allow civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes," he said.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:332,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2169}">Attacks on UNIFIL</h2>

On Friday, the UN mission, known as UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon), said that in recent days, it had come under several "deliberate" attacks by Israeli forces.

Austin said that he has asked his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant about Israeli attacks on the UN peacekeeping mission's positions in Lebanon.

"He (Gallant) assured me there's no intent of him or his forces to target UNIFIL forces. Again, I continue to emphasise how important it is that those forces don't come under attack," said Austin.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:526,&quot;w&quot;:692,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2363}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-meeting-defence-ministers-vows-unwavering-support-for-ukraine-shares-concern-over-lebanon-conflict-769057">G7 meeting: Defence ministers vows 'unwavering support' for Ukraine; share concern over Lebanon conflict</a>

This comes as America, Israel's strongest ally, has been urging Tehran to do more to safeguard civilians in Lebanon and Gaza. Last week, the US in a confidential letter from Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken asked Israeli officials to take concrete measures to address the worsening situation in Gaza within 30 days. The US reportedly warned Tehran that without concrete steps to address the situation, the warring nation could face potential restrictions on American military aid.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Saturday (Oct 19) called for Israel to scale back its strikes on Beirut, Lebanon, citing the rising civilian death toll as "far too high". Just hours after Israel carried out heavy strikes on Hezbollah positions in the southern suburbs of the capital, sending plumes of smoke billowing over the city, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said: "We'd like to see Israel scale back on some of the strikes it's taking, especially in and around Beirut".

The United States on Saturday (Oct 19) called for Israel to scale back its strikes on Beirut, Lebanon, citing the rising civilian death toll as "far too high". Just hours after Israel carried out heavy strikes on Hezbollah positions in the southern suburbs of the capital, sending plumes of smoke billowing over the city, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said: "We'd like to see Israel scale back on some of the strikes it's taking, especially in and around Beirut". 'We'd like to see things transition': US Speaking at a G7 defence meeting in Naples, Italy, Austin urged a shift towards negotiations to enable civilians on both sides of the Lebanon-Israel border to return home safely. Also read | 'No US forces directly involved': Pentagon clarifies role in Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar’s death "We'd like to see things transition to some sort of negotiation that will allow civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes," he said. Attacks on UNIFIL On Friday, the UN mission, known as UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon), said that in recent days, it had come under several "deliberate" attacks by Israeli forces. Austin said that he has asked his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant about Israeli attacks on the UN peacekeeping mission's positions in Lebanon. "He (Gallant) assured me there's no intent of him or his forces to target UNIFIL forces. Again, I continue to emphasise how important it is that those forces don't come under attack," said Austin. Also read | G7 meeting: Defence ministers vows 'unwavering support' for Ukraine; share concern over Lebanon conflict This comes as America, Israel's strongest ally, has been urging Tehran to do more to safeguard civilians in Lebanon and Gaza. Last week, the US in a confidential letter from Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken asked Israeli officials to take concrete measures to address the worsening situation in Gaza within 30 days. The US reportedly warned Tehran that without concrete steps to address the situation, the warring nation could face potential restrictions on American military aid. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: US pressures Israel to scale back attacks on Beirut, citing 'far too high' civilian toll

The presidential election in the United States (US) is less than a month away. The November 5 election is happening under the shadow of two wars- the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip that began on October 7, 2023,&nbsp;and the Russia-Ukraine war that started on February 24, 2022.&nbsp;

The Israel-Hamas war has further spread to West Asia with Israel now fighting Iran and Tehran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.

The top contenders in this US presidential election are Donald Trump (Republican Party) and Kamala Harris (Democratic Party). Harris, who is the current vice president, became the Democratic presidential candidate after President Joe Biden withdrew from the race.

Both Trump and Harris have spoken in length about the two wars but have not offered any realistic ways to stop them.&nbsp;

<h2>Where do Trump and Harris stand on Gaza and Ukraine?</h2>

<h3>On Gaza war</h3>

The Israel-Hamas war merited a few scant mentions over less than five minutes of the September 10 presidential debate on ABC News between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.

During the debate, Trump reiterated his position that the war in West Asia would have not broken out if he were president.&nbsp;

Hitting out at Harris, Trump said, "When she mentions Israel, all of a sudden - she hates Israel. She wouldn’t even meet with Netanyahu when he went to Congress to make a very important speech. She refused to be there because she was at a sorority party of hers. She wanted to go to the sorority party. She hates Israel," he said.

"If she's president, I believe that Israel will not exist within two years from now," Trump added and expressed his continued support of Israel's offensive in Gaza.

He has also urged Israel to “finish up” the war because it was is losing support.&nbsp;

Harris, meanwhile, said that Trump's remarks about her hating Israel were&nbsp;"absolutely not true."

Harris said that she backed&nbsp;a ceasefire deal in Gaza that would see the release of the remaining Israeli captives, but renewed her pledge to continue to arm Israel.

She also voiced support for the two-state solution.

<h3>On Ukraine war</h3>

Trump has many times mentioned that he could stop the Russia-Ukraine war in 24 hours if he were elected president again. During the September 10 presidential debate, the Republican candidate sidestepped a question&nbsp;on whether he wanted Ukraine to win in its war against Russia.

“I want the war to stop,” Trump said when he was directly asked if he wanted Kyiv to win.

On Thursday (Oct 17), Trump blamed Ukrainian President&nbsp;Volodymyr Zelensky for starting the war against&nbsp;Russia. Trump has repeatedly called Zelensky the "greatest salesman on Earth"&nbsp;for having solicited and received billions of dollars of US&nbsp;military aid since the war broke out in 2022.

His remarks&nbsp;suggest he could seek to wind down aid for Ukraine if he defeats Harris in the election, a report by the news agency Reuters said.

Kamala Harris, meanwhile,&nbsp;has pledged to continue supporting Ukraine, and she has portrayed a victory for the country as a vital American national security interest. She has frequently rebuked Trump for being unwilling to stand up to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"The reason why Trump says the (Russia-Ukraine)&nbsp;war would be over in 24 hours, because he would just give it up. And that's not who we are as Americans...we brought 50 countries together to support Ukraine in its right to defence," Harris said during the presidential debate.

"If Donald Trump were president right now, Putin would be sitting in Kyiv...," she added.

<h2>Poll: Trump leads Harris on dealing with Gaza, Ukraine wars</h2>

A recent poll by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) suggested that Trump had an edge over Harris&nbsp;on who would better navigate the country through the Ukraine war, the Gaza war, and the escalating conflict in West Asia.

In overall support, the poll published on Friday showed Harris and Trump tied across the seven battleground states that could decide the November presidential election.

The poll showed Harris with marginal 2 per cent&nbsp;point lead&nbsp;in Arizona, Georgia and Michigan, Trump up 6 points in Nevada and 1 in Pennsylvania, and the two tied in North Carolina and Wisconsin. The poll of 600 registered voters in each state conducted on September 28-October 8 had a margin of error of 4% per cent points in each state.

Trump leads Harris in the seven swing states 50 per cent&nbsp;to 39 per cent&nbsp;on who is best able to handle Russian&nbsp;war against Ukraine. Trump also has a 48 per cent&nbsp;to 33 per cent&nbsp;lead over Harris on who is better suited to handle the Israel-Hamas war, the WSJ poll added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The presidential election in the United States (US) is less than a month away. The November 5 election is happening under the shadow of two wars- the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip that began on October 7, 2023, and the Russia-Ukraine war that started on February 24, 2022.

The presidential election in the United States (US) is less than a month away. The November 5 election is happening under the shadow of two wars- the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip that began on October 7, 2023, and the Russia-Ukraine war that started on February 24, 2022. The Israel-Hamas war has further spread to West Asia with Israel now fighting Iran and Tehran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. The top contenders in this US presidential election are Donald Trump (Republican Party) and Kamala Harris (Democratic Party). Harris, who is the current vice president, became the Democratic presidential candidate after President Joe Biden withdrew from the race. Both Trump and Harris have spoken in length about the two wars but have not offered any realistic ways to stop them. Where do Trump and Harris stand on Gaza and Ukraine? On Gaza war The Israel-Hamas war merited a few scant mentions over less than five minutes of the September 10 presidential debate on ABC News between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. During the debate, Trump reiterated his position that the war in West Asia would have not broken out if he were president. Hitting out at Harris, Trump said, "When she mentions Israel, all of a sudden - she hates Israel. She wouldn’t even meet with Netanyahu when he went to Congress to make a very important speech. She refused to be there because she was at a sorority party of hers. She wanted to go to the sorority party. She hates Israel," he said. "If she's president, I believe that Israel will not exist within two years from now," Trump added and expressed his continued support of Israel's offensive in Gaza. He has also urged Israel to “finish up” the war because it was is losing support. Harris, meanwhile, said that Trump's remarks about her hating Israel were "absolutely not true." Harris said that she backed a ceasefire deal in Gaza that would see the release of the remaining Israeli captives, but renewed her pledge to continue to arm Israel. She also voiced support for the two-state solution. On Ukraine war Trump has many times mentioned that he could stop the Russia-Ukraine war in 24 hours if he were elected president again. During the September 10 presidential debate, the Republican candidate sidestepped a question on whether he wanted Ukraine to win in its war against Russia. “I want the war to stop,” Trump said when he was directly asked if he wanted Kyiv to win. On Thursday (Oct 17), Trump blamed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for starting the war against Russia. Trump has repeatedly called Zelensky the "greatest salesman on Earth" for having solicited and received billions of dollars of US military aid since the war broke out in 2022. His remarks suggest he could seek to wind down aid for Ukraine if he defeats Harris in the election, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Kamala Harris, meanwhile, has pledged to continue supporting Ukraine, and she has portrayed a victory for the country as a vital American national security interest. She has frequently rebuked Trump for being unwilling to stand up to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "The reason why Trump says the (Russia-Ukraine) war would be over in 24 hours, because he would just give it up. And that's not who we are as Americans...we brought 50 countries together to support Ukraine in its right to defence," Harris said during the presidential debate. "If Donald Trump were president right now, Putin would be sitting in Kyiv...," she added. Poll: Trump leads Harris on dealing with Gaza, Ukraine wars A recent poll by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) suggested that Trump had an edge over Harris on who would better navigate the country through the Ukraine war, the Gaza war, and the escalating conflict in West Asia. In overall support, the poll published on Friday showed Harris and Trump tied across the seven battleground states that could decide the November presidential election. The poll showed Harris with marginal 2 per cent point lead in Arizona, Georgia and Michigan, Trump up 6 points in Nevada and 1 in Pennsylvania, and the two tied in North Carolina and Wisconsin. The poll of 600 registered voters in each state conducted on September 28-October 8 had a margin of error of 4% per cent points in each state. Trump leads Harris in the seven swing states 50 per cent to 39 per cent on who is best able to handle Russian war against Ukraine. Trump also has a 48 per cent to 33 per cent lead over Harris on who is better suited to handle the Israel-Hamas war, the WSJ poll added. (With inputs from agencies)

US presidential election 2024: Where do Trump and Harris stand on Gaza and Ukraine wars?