<p>The Gaza Health Ministry run by the Palestinian militant group Hamas released a list of almost 7,000 names of Gazans it said had been killed in Israeli strikes, on Thursday (Oct 26). This comes a day after the United States President Joe Biden cast doubt on its toll figures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry, 7,028 people, including more than 2,900 children have been killed in Gaza, as of Thursday, since its October 7 attacks. In the recent update, the ministry also said that nearly 18,500 people have been injured.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Mainly civilians’</strong></h2>

<p>The list, released by the Gaza health ministry shows the names of the 6,747 victims, mainly civilians. It&nbsp;also gives information about each&nbsp;victim's&nbsp;sex, age and identity card numbers. However, the ministry said 281 bodies had not yet been identified.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-says-may-support-gaza-ceasefire-only-after-hostages-freed-650469">US President Biden says may support Gaza ceasefire only after hostages are freed</a></strong></p>

<p>The list by the Palestinian militant group, which has not been verified is more than 200 pages long. The United States had “brazenly cast doubt on the truth of the announced toll,” said the Palestinian health ministry in a statement.</p>

<p>It added, “We have decided to announce the details of the names to the whole world so that the truth is known about the genocide perpetrated by the Israeli occupation against our people.” &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US president doubts Gaza death toll</strong></h2>

<p>During a joint press conference&nbsp;at the White House, Biden cast doubt on civilian casualty figures released by the Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry.</p>

<p>“I have no notion that the Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed. I’m sure innocents have been killed, and it’s a price of waging war,” said the US president. He added, “But I have no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-urges-israel-to-follow-laws-of-war-protect-civilians-in-gaza-651316">US President Biden urges Israel to follow ‘laws of war’, protect civilians in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<p>However, he has also cautioned Israel over the civilian toll and&nbsp;went on to accuse Hamas which has been ruling Gaza of “hiding behind” Palestinian civilians amid Israeli strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Israel has to do everything in its power, as difficult as it is, to protect innocent civilians. It’s difficult,” said the US president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked about the death toll on Thursday, Israeli military spokesman Richard Hecht said “when the Hamas health ministry comes out with the numbers just take them with a pinch of salt.” There have been multiple claims and counterclaims amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


The Gaza Health Ministry run by the Palestinian militant group Hamas released a list of almost 7,000 names of Gazans it said had been killed in Israeli strikes, on Thursday (Oct 26).

The Gaza Health Ministry run by the Palestinian militant group Hamas released a list of almost 7,000 names of Gazans it said had been killed in Israeli strikes, on Thursday (Oct 26). This comes a day after the United States President Joe Biden cast doubt on its toll figures. According to the Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry, 7,028 people, including more than 2,900 children have been killed in Gaza, as of Thursday, since its October 7 attacks. In the recent update, the ministry also said that nearly 18,500 people have been injured. ‘Mainly civilians’ The list, released by the Gaza health ministry shows the names of the 6,747 victims, mainly civilians. It also gives information about each victim's sex, age and identity card numbers. However, the ministry said 281 bodies had not yet been identified. ALSO READ | US President Biden says may support Gaza ceasefire only after hostages are freed The list by the Palestinian militant group, which has not been verified is more than 200 pages long. The United States had “brazenly cast doubt on the truth of the announced toll,” said the Palestinian health ministry in a statement. It added, “We have decided to announce the details of the names to the whole world so that the truth is known about the genocide perpetrated by the Israeli occupation against our people.” US president doubts Gaza death toll During a joint press conference at the White House, Biden cast doubt on civilian casualty figures released by the Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry. “I have no notion that the Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed. I’m sure innocents have been killed, and it’s a price of waging war,” said the US president. He added, “But I have no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using.” ALSO READ | US President Biden urges Israel to follow ‘laws of war’, protect civilians in Gaza However, he has also cautioned Israel over the civilian toll and went on to accuse Hamas which has been ruling Gaza of “hiding behind” Palestinian civilians amid Israeli strikes. “Israel has to do everything in its power, as difficult as it is, to protect innocent civilians. It’s difficult,” said the US president. When asked about the death toll on Thursday, Israeli military spokesman Richard Hecht said “when the Hamas health ministry comes out with the numbers just take them with a pinch of salt.” There have been multiple claims and counterclaims amid the ongoing war. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israel-Hamas war: Gaza health ministry releases names of nearly 7,000 people 'killed' amid Israeli strikes

<p>Israel vowed to reduce the Gaza Strip to rubble in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attack, which according to authorities killed more than 1,400 people.</p>

<p>The Palestinian militant group also took hostages back to Gaza. Some of them have been freed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel has bombarded the Gaza Strip as it aims to annihilate the militant group, which is designated as a terrorist organisation by many Western countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the airstrikes aiming to kill the militants have left the future of common people there in the darkness.</p>

<p>The war has deprived the civilians of food, clean water, medical facilities, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-ground-forces-conduct-another-night-raid-in-gaza-idf-releases-aerial-footage-651890">Israel 'ground forces' conduct another night raid in Gaza, IDF releases aerial footage</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Israel has bombarded the Gaza Strip as it prepares for a ground invasion it says is aimed at annihilating Hamas, even as Russia warned the conflict could spread beyond the Middle East.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Humanitarian supplies in war-ravaged Gaza were critically low amid global failure to agree on a lull to the fighting to deliver aid. Amid the ongoing conflict, residents buried the dead in mass graves as the civilian toll mounted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, satellite images of Gaza showed before and after the territory was bombed, displaying the extent of destruction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The satellite pictures show areas in the northern Gaza Strip destroyed following Israel's retaliatory attacks on Hamas last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trigger-warning-israeli-envoy-plays-video-of-hamas-trying-to-decapitate-thai-worker-with-garden-hoe-651863">Israeli envoy plays video of Hamas trying to decapitate Thai worker with garden hoe</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Aerial images taken of Beit Hanoun, near the frontier with Israel showed buildings flattened compared to an image taken before the war began.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas and local residents have said that Beit Hanoun was among the first places hit hard by retaliatory Israeli strikes, with many roads and buildings destroyed and thousands displaced.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here are some of the satellite images:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong><img alt="Beit Hanoun" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dd8eb2ee-1a58-4157-a24e-e8477ffe7d42" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Beit%20Hanoun.png" /></strong></p>

<p><em>This combination of images shows Beit Hanoun neighborhood in the north of Gaza. Images Provided by Maxar accessed via news agency.&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><img alt="beit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d45eb564-709a-47ec-a736-8530c3f6a6bd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/beit.png" /></p>

<p><em>Here's another neighbourhood of Beit Hanoun.&nbsp;Images Provided by Maxar accessed via news agency.&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><img alt="Al Karameh " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ada47f4e-7127-4799-9221-e5887778b831" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Al%20Karameh.png" /></p>

<p><em>This combination of images shows The Al Karameh neighborhood.&nbsp;Images provided by Maxar, accessed via news agencies.&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Al-Atatra" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2600e774-5359-401a-9010-8f9caf3c5e1a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Al-Atatra.png" /></p>

<p><em>The Al-Atatra area of Beit Lahiya.&nbsp;Images Provided by Maxar.&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><img alt="Al-Zahra " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="87f17854-2c73-4dba-8aac-38afc6981c42" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Al-Zahra.png" /></p>

<p><em>The Al-Zahra neighbourhood. Image credit: Planet.&nbsp;</em></p>

<p>After 20 days of the war, The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry said on Thursday (Oct 26) that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed so far, which is more than three times the number killed in the six-week-long Gaza war in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Israel vowed to reduce the Gaza Strip to rubble in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attack, which according to authorities killed more than 1,400 people. The Palestinian militant group also took hostages back to Gaza.

Israel vowed to reduce the Gaza Strip to rubble in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attack, which according to authorities killed more than 1,400 people. The Palestinian militant group also took hostages back to Gaza. Some of them have been freed. Israel has bombarded the Gaza Strip as it aims to annihilate the militant group, which is designated as a terrorist organisation by many Western countries. However, the airstrikes aiming to kill the militants have left the future of common people there in the darkness. The war has deprived the civilians of food, clean water, medical facilities, and more. Also read: Israel 'ground forces' conduct another night raid in Gaza, IDF releases aerial footage Israel has bombarded the Gaza Strip as it prepares for a ground invasion it says is aimed at annihilating Hamas, even as Russia warned the conflict could spread beyond the Middle East. Humanitarian supplies in war-ravaged Gaza were critically low amid global failure to agree on a lull to the fighting to deliver aid. Amid the ongoing conflict, residents buried the dead in mass graves as the civilian toll mounted. Meanwhile, satellite images of Gaza showed before and after the territory was bombed, displaying the extent of destruction. The satellite pictures show areas in the northern Gaza Strip destroyed following Israel's retaliatory attacks on Hamas last week. Also read: Israeli envoy plays video of Hamas trying to decapitate Thai worker with garden hoe Aerial images taken of Beit Hanoun, near the frontier with Israel showed buildings flattened compared to an image taken before the war began. Hamas and local residents have said that Beit Hanoun was among the first places hit hard by retaliatory Israeli strikes, with many roads and buildings destroyed and thousands displaced. Here are some of the satellite images: This combination of images shows Beit Hanoun neighborhood in the north of Gaza. Images Provided by Maxar accessed via news agency. Here's another neighbourhood of Beit Hanoun. Images Provided by Maxar accessed via news agency. This combination of images shows The Al Karameh neighborhood. Images provided by Maxar, accessed via news agencies. The Al-Atatra area of Beit Lahiya. Images Provided by Maxar. The Al-Zahra neighbourhood. Image credit: Planet. After 20 days of the war, The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry said on Thursday (Oct 26) that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed so far, which is more than three times the number killed in the six-week-long Gaza war in 2014. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: Before and after satellite images show destruction in Gaza

<p>The Israeli military launched another <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-gaza-health-ministry-releases-names-of-7000-people-killed-amid-israeli-strikes-651719">brief incursion into the Gaza Strip</a> as ground forces backed by fighter jets and drones carried out a night-time targeted raid in the central part of the region, the army said Friday (Oct 27). This comes amid a much-anticipated land invasion of the territory by Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"During the last day, IDF (Israel Defense Forces) ground forces, accompanied by IDF fighter jets and UAVs, conducted an additional targeted raid in the central Gaza Strip," the army said in a statement.</p>

<p>"As part of the activity, IDF aircraft and artillery struck terror targets belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation in the Shujaiya area and throughout the Gaza Strip."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trigger-warning-israeli-envoy-plays-video-of-hamas-trying-to-decapitate-thai-worker-with-garden-hoe-651863">Israeli envoy plays video of Hamas trying to decapitate Thai worker with garden hoe</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Pentagon said that US warplanes struck targets in eastern Syria, stating that they were linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guard after a string of attacks on US forces by Iran-backed fighters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The airstrikes acted as a catalyst for the latest&nbsp;escalation in West Asia, amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and high regional tensions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>IDF released a black-and-white video, which showed a column of armoured vehicles as a thick cloud of dust billowed into the sky after the strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The army conducted a similar ground operation using tanks and infantry the previous night in the northern part of the Palestinian territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">OPERATIONAL UPDATE: The IDF conducted strikes on Hamas terrorist targets over the last 24 hours.<br />
<br />
IDF ground troops, fighter jets and UAVs struck:<br />
<br />
🔴 Anti-tank missile launch sites<br />
🔴 Command &amp; control centers<br />
🔴 Hamas terrorist operatives<br />
<br />
The troops exited the area and no… <a href="https://t.co/yNdiY6XTby">pic.twitter.com/yNdiY6XTby</a></p>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1717775899238584737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-social-media-scrambles-to-scrub-spoof-videos-mocking-palestinians-651829">Social media scrambles to scrub spoof videos mocking Palestinians</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Israel preparing for a ground offensive&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This comes after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu repeated earlier this week that Israel was "preparing for a ground offensive".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu said in a televised statement late Wednesday that they were "preparing for a ground offensive", besides the heavy bombing campaign of Hamas-controlled Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu said the decision on when forces would go into the Palestinian enclave would be taken by the government's special war cabinet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "We have already killed thousands of terrorists and this is only the beginning".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "Simultaneously, we are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how or how many. I will also not elaborate on the various calculations we are making, which the public is mostly unaware of and that is how things should be."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The Israeli military launched another brief incursion into the Gaza Strip as ground forces backed by fighter jets and drones carried out a night-time targeted raid in the central part of the region, the army said Friday (Oct 27).

The Israeli military launched another brief incursion into the Gaza Strip as ground forces backed by fighter jets and drones carried out a night-time targeted raid in the central part of the region, the army said Friday (Oct 27). This comes amid a much-anticipated land invasion of the territory by Israel. "During the last day, IDF (Israel Defense Forces) ground forces, accompanied by IDF fighter jets and UAVs, conducted an additional targeted raid in the central Gaza Strip," the army said in a statement. "As part of the activity, IDF aircraft and artillery struck terror targets belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation in the Shujaiya area and throughout the Gaza Strip." Also read: Israeli envoy plays video of Hamas trying to decapitate Thai worker with garden hoe Meanwhile, the Pentagon said that US warplanes struck targets in eastern Syria, stating that they were linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guard after a string of attacks on US forces by Iran-backed fighters. The airstrikes acted as a catalyst for the latest escalation in West Asia, amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and high regional tensions. IDF released a black-and-white video, which showed a column of armoured vehicles as a thick cloud of dust billowed into the sky after the strikes. The army conducted a similar ground operation using tanks and infantry the previous night in the northern part of the Palestinian territory. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. OPERATIONAL UPDATE: The IDF conducted strikes on Hamas terrorist targets over the last 24 hours. IDF ground troops, fighter jets and UAVs struck: 🔴 Anti-tank missile launch sites 🔴 Command & control centers 🔴 Hamas terrorist operatives The troops exited the area and no… pic.twitter.com/yNdiY6XTby — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 27, 2023 × Also read: Social media scrambles to scrub spoof videos mocking Palestinians Israel preparing for a ground offensive This comes after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu repeated earlier this week that Israel was "preparing for a ground offensive". Netanyahu said in a televised statement late Wednesday that they were "preparing for a ground offensive", besides the heavy bombing campaign of Hamas-controlled Gaza. Netanyahu said the decision on when forces would go into the Palestinian enclave would be taken by the government's special war cabinet. He said, "We have already killed thousands of terrorists and this is only the beginning". He added, "Simultaneously, we are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how or how many. I will also not elaborate on the various calculations we are making, which the public is mostly unaware of and that is how things should be." (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel 'ground forces' conduct another night raid in Gaza, IDF releases aerial footage

<p>On the 19th day of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, the toll on Palestinian lives surpasses the cumulative total of the past 15 years, marking a drastic escalation in casualties.</p>

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<h2><strong>700 killed in one day</strong></h2>

<p>The United Nations noted that the death toll on Wednesday (Oct 25), as reported by Gaza's health ministry, exceeded 700 people, marking the highest single-day count since the war began.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Overnight, at least 80 more people were killed, and hundreds sustained injuries, as stated by the ministry.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/israel-hamas-war-ground-invasion-looming-israel-asks-google-to-disable-live-traffic-maps-in-gaza-651219">Also read |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Ground invasion looming? Israel asks Google to disable live traffic maps in Gaza</a></p>

<p>In the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian Authority's health ministry reported 102 Palestinian fatalities since October 7, as violence with Israeli troops and settlers continues to escalate.</p>

<h2><strong>Gaza hospitals struggle to operate</strong></h2>

<p>Gaza's medical facilities are also on the brink of a "total collapse," according to Palestinian medics' warnings on Wednesday (Oct 25). The United Nations reported critically low supplies, while the Hamas-run health ministry documented 700 fatalities in Israeli airstrikes within a 24-hour period.</p>

<p>Concern is mounting over the deepening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. Israel initiated bombings on October 7 following an attack by Hamas militants who crossed the border, resulting in the deaths of more than 1,400 people, primarily civilians, and the kidnapping of over 220 others, as reported by Israeli officials.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Israel flood Hamas' underground tunnel network?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-israel-flood-hamas-underground-tunnel-network-651281/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>UN data reveals that more than a third of Gaza's 35 hospitals have closed due to damage or a lack of fuel, forcing some doctors to perform surgeries without anesthesia. Israel has disrupted the usual flow of water, food, and supplies to Gaza. Since the beginning of the conflict, fewer than 70 relief trucks have entered the impoverished territory, with none of them containing fuel, which Israel fears Hamas might repurpose for weapons and explosives.</p>

<p>During the session at the UN Security Council addressing the Israel-Gaza conflict on Tuesday (Oct 24), US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the only path to long-lasting peace is the establishment of two separate states for two distinct peoples.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


On the 19th day of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, the toll on Palestinian lives surpasses the cumulative total of the past 15 years, marking a drastic escalation in casualties.

On the 19th day of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, the toll on Palestinian lives surpasses the cumulative total of the past 15 years, marking a drastic escalation in casualties. × 700 killed in one day The United Nations noted that the death toll on Wednesday (Oct 25), as reported by Gaza's health ministry, exceeded 700 people, marking the highest single-day count since the war began. Overnight, at least 80 more people were killed, and hundreds sustained injuries, as stated by the ministry. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Ground invasion looming? Israel asks Google to disable live traffic maps in Gaza In the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian Authority's health ministry reported 102 Palestinian fatalities since October 7, as violence with Israeli troops and settlers continues to escalate. Gaza hospitals struggle to operate Gaza's medical facilities are also on the brink of a "total collapse," according to Palestinian medics' warnings on Wednesday (Oct 25). The United Nations reported critically low supplies, while the Hamas-run health ministry documented 700 fatalities in Israeli airstrikes within a 24-hour period. Concern is mounting over the deepening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. Israel initiated bombings on October 7 following an attack by Hamas militants who crossed the border, resulting in the deaths of more than 1,400 people, primarily civilians, and the kidnapping of over 220 others, as reported by Israeli officials. Also watch | Gravitas: Will Israel flood Hamas' underground tunnel network? UN data reveals that more than a third of Gaza's 35 hospitals have closed due to damage or a lack of fuel, forcing some doctors to perform surgeries without anesthesia. Israel has disrupted the usual flow of water, food, and supplies to Gaza. Since the beginning of the conflict, fewer than 70 relief trucks have entered the impoverished territory, with none of them containing fuel, which Israel fears Hamas might repurpose for weapons and explosives. During the session at the UN Security Council addressing the Israel-Gaza conflict on Tuesday (Oct 24), US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the only path to long-lasting peace is the establishment of two separate states for two distinct peoples. (With inputs from agencies)

Data Lab | 18 days of Israel-Hamas war sees more Palestinian deaths than 15 years of conflict combined

<p>United States President Joe Biden, on Wednesday (Oct 26) said that while Israel has a right to defend itself, he called on Tel Aviv to follow “laws of war” and do everything to protect civilians. This comes amid mounting international pressure for a ceasefire in the region, the calls for which the US president has previously rejected saying that would not happen until all the hostages being held in Gaza are released.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Palestinian militant group launched a surprise attack against Israel on October 7 which, as per Israeli officials, killed more than 1,400 people, while more than 200 others were taken as hostages by Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel, in turn, has launched air strikes against Gaza which, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, has killed more than 6,500 Palestinians. Jerusalem&nbsp;is also planning a ground invasion of the besieged Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biden on Israel’s right to defend itself</strong></h2>

<p>“Israel has a right, and I would add responsibility, to respond to the slaughter of its people,” the US president told reporters at the White House during a joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese who is in the midst of a visit to Washington.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also went on to accuse Hamas which has been ruling Gaza of “hiding behind” Palestinian civilians amid Israeli strikes but also called on Israel to follow “laws of war.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Israel has to do everything in its power, as difficult as it is, to protect innocent civilians. It’s difficult,” said the US president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden also called for an end to Israeli settler attacks on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank saying that it is “pouring gasoline on the fire.” He added, “They’re attacking Palestinians in places that they’re entitled to be.”</p>

<h2><strong>US president doubts Gaza death toll, calls for two-state solution</strong></h2>

<p>Biden also cast doubt on civilian casualty figures released by the Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry. “I have no notion that the Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed. I’m sure innocents have been killed, and it’s a price of waging war.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “But I have no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using.” He also denied reports that he “demanded” that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delay Israel’s ground invasion of Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What I have indicated to him is that if that’s possible to get these folks out safely, that’s what he should do. It’s their decision,” said Biden, adding “I did not demand it. I put it out to him, if it’s real, it should be done.”</p>

<p>Speaking about what happens once the current crisis is over, the US president said that “there has to be a vision of what comes next” in the region and it should include a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians.</p>

<p>“Israelis and Palestinians equally deserve to live side by side in safety, dignity and in peace,” said Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


United States President Joe Biden, on Wednesday (Oct 26) said that while Israel has a right to defend itself, he called on Tel Aviv to follow “laws of war” and do everything to protect civilians.

United States President Joe Biden, on Wednesday (Oct 26) said that while Israel has a right to defend itself, he called on Tel Aviv to follow “laws of war” and do everything to protect civilians. This comes amid mounting international pressure for a ceasefire in the region, the calls for which the US president has previously rejected saying that would not happen until all the hostages being held in Gaza are released. The Palestinian militant group launched a surprise attack against Israel on October 7 which, as per Israeli officials, killed more than 1,400 people, while more than 200 others were taken as hostages by Hamas. Israel, in turn, has launched air strikes against Gaza which, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, has killed more than 6,500 Palestinians. Jerusalem is also planning a ground invasion of the besieged Gaza Strip. Biden on Israel’s right to defend itself “Israel has a right, and I would add responsibility, to respond to the slaughter of its people,” the US president told reporters at the White House during a joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese who is in the midst of a visit to Washington. He also went on to accuse Hamas which has been ruling Gaza of “hiding behind” Palestinian civilians amid Israeli strikes but also called on Israel to follow “laws of war.” “Israel has to do everything in its power, as difficult as it is, to protect innocent civilians. It’s difficult,” said the US president. Biden also called for an end to Israeli settler attacks on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank saying that it is “pouring gasoline on the fire.” He added, “They’re attacking Palestinians in places that they’re entitled to be.” US president doubts Gaza death toll, calls for two-state solution Biden also cast doubt on civilian casualty figures released by the Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry. “I have no notion that the Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed. I’m sure innocents have been killed, and it’s a price of waging war.” He added, “But I have no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using.” He also denied reports that he “demanded” that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delay Israel’s ground invasion of Gaza. “What I have indicated to him is that if that’s possible to get these folks out safely, that’s what he should do. It’s their decision,” said Biden, adding “I did not demand it. I put it out to him, if it’s real, it should be done.” Speaking about what happens once the current crisis is over, the US president said that “there has to be a vision of what comes next” in the region and it should include a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians. “Israelis and Palestinians equally deserve to live side by side in safety, dignity and in peace,” said Biden. (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.

US President Biden urges Israel to follow ‘laws of war’, protect civilians in Gaza

<p>The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) recently made use of&nbsp;the 'Iron Sting' precision munition system for the first time in a military operation.&nbsp;The IDF's elite Maglan Unit used this innovative technology to target Hamas rocket launchers in the Gaza Strip, demonstrating a new level of precision and effectiveness.</p>

<p>This deployment comes at a crucial time when Israel faces allegations of civilian casualties in Gaza following a&nbsp;barbaric Hamas attack in southern Israel on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 'Iron Sting' system was born out of collaborative efforts between the Israeli military and the renowned defence firm, Elbit Systems.</p>

<p>Within the Israeli military, it was the Directorate of Defence Research and Development in the Ministry of Defence and the Israel Defence Force's Ground Forces that spearheaded its development.</p>

<p>Elbit Systems, a key player in the Israeli defence industry, played a vital role in shaping the 'Iron Sting' into a reality.</p>

<h2><strong>What are its features?</strong></h2>

<p>The 'Iron Sting' stands out as a precision laser and GPS-guided mortar munition. Its primary ammunition is 120mm mortar rounds, and it boasts remarkable accuracy.</p>

<p>This munition system is designed to target a wide range of distances, with an impeccable range spanning from 1 to 12 kilometres, contingent on the ammunition used. The most impressive feature is that the 'Iron Sting' is suitable for deployment in both urban environments and open terrains, rendering it a versatile solution.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whats-inside-israels-safe-rooms-shielding-people-from-hamas-airstrikes-watch-645278">Also read |&nbsp;What's inside Israel's safe rooms shielding people from Hamas airstrikes?&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Another&nbsp;feature&nbsp;is the ability to penetrate double-reinforced concrete, making it a formidable force in urban warfare. This capability gives Israeli forces a significant advantage in operations that demand precision and minimal collateral damage.</p>

<h2><strong>A decade in the making</strong></h2>

<p>Yaniv Rotem, the head of the Defence Ministry's Administration for the Development of Weapons and Technological Infrastructure, told the Times of Israel,&nbsp;that the 'Iron Sting' had been in development for a decade.</p>

<p>He described it as "groundbreaking" and explained that it empowers infantry units with a level of accuracy that was previously achievable only through missiles and airborne weaponry.</p>

<p>The testing phase of this groundbreaking system concluded in March 2021, setting the stage for its operational debut.</p>

<p>During IDF's intense bombing in Gaza,&nbsp;the 'Iron Sting' was showcased as an "innovative and accurate mortar bomb." The IDF even shared a video showing&nbsp;the 120mm mortar in action, accurately targeting and neutralising an enemy rocket launcher, thereby minimising the risk to civilians.</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="iw">מפא"ת, זרוע היבשה בצה"ל ואלביט מערכות השלימו לאחרונה סדרת ניסויי ירי מוצלחת בפצצת מרגמה מדויקת מונחית לייזר ו-GPS. הסדרה חותמת את שלב הפיתוח של הפצמ"ר, "עוקץ פלדה", לקראת המסירה לצה"ל. הפצמ״ר נועד לאפשר אש מדויקת וקטלנית בשטחים פתוחים ובמתחמים אורבניים, תוך צמצום נזק היקפי. <a href="https://t.co/CJscK2zBbw">pic.twitter.com/CJscK2zBbw</a></p>
— משרד הביטחון (@MoDIsrael) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoDIsrael/status/1371098869170380812?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Federal&nbsp;quoted&nbsp;Major General Omer Cohen, commander of the Maglan unit, praising the 'Iron Sting' and its precision, lethality, and expertise of the fighters.</p>

<p>He revealed that the Maglan unit, in cooperation with the Air Force, had successfully thwarted numerous terrorists using various means, with the 'Iron Sting' being a crucial component. This munition system played a significant role in eliminating over 100 operatives within Gaza since the conflict's outset.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-considering-inundating-hamas-underground-tunnels-before-ground-invasion-report-651029">Also read |&nbsp;Israel considering inundating Hamas’ underground tunnels before ground invasion: Report</a></p>

<h2><strong>Transforming the battlefield</strong></h2>

<p>Colonel Assaf Shatzkin, head of the land systems department in the ministry's research division, said in a statement&nbsp;that the 'Iron Sting' would greatly benefit the Israeli army in confrontations with adversaries like Hamas and Hezbollah.</p>

<p>He highlighted its precision in striking short-range targets within several kilometres, with an accuracy level of a few metres.</p>

<p>Then-defence minister Benny Gantz, speaking in March, acknowledged the transformative potential of the 'Iron Sting.' He stated that this system "changes the battlefield" by equipping Israeli forces with more accurate and effective means, ushering in a new era of precision warfare.</p>

<p>The Israeli military has faced the complex challenge of battling Palestinian militants in the densely populated Gaza Strip while simultaneously preparing for potential conflicts with Hezbollah militants in Lebanon.</p>

<p>This dual threat landscape necessitates innovative solutions that minimise civilian casualties and collateral damage, making the 'Iron Sting' system all the more relevant.</p>

<h2><strong>Controversial history</strong></h2>

<p>The use of precision munitions and advanced weaponry by Israel has often stirred controversy. The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court launched a preliminary investigation into possible war crimes by Israel during its 2014 conflict in Gaza, where hundreds of civilians lost their lives. This ongoing scrutiny highlights the importance of developing and using&nbsp;technologies that can differentiate between combatants and non-combatants, minimising the risk to innocent lives.</p>

<p>Amid escalating tensions and violence, it is widely anticipated that Israel will launch a ground offensive in Gaza in response to Hamas's October 7&nbsp;attack&nbsp;into southern Israeli communities.</p>

<p>The massing of tanks and troops at the Gaza border, along with increased airstrikes, is indicative of Israel's readiness to engage in the next stages of the conflict.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel demands UN chief, Antonio Guterres resignation</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-israel-demands-un-chief-antonio-guterres-resignation-651116/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Human toll</strong></h2>

<p>The ongoing violence has resulted in a significant loss of life on both sides. In Israel, over 1,400 people have been killed, primarily civilians who were victims of the initial Hamas attack. Additionally, over 222 individuals were captured and taken back to Gaza, including foreign nationals. Two Americans were released in a recent development.</p>

<p>On the Palestinian side, more than 5,000 individuals, including around 2,000 minors and 1,100 women, have lost their lives. These casualties underscore the urgency of finding ways to mitigate the human toll of conflicts in the region.</p>

<p>This current war marks the deadliest of five wars fought between Israel and Hamas in the last 15 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) recently made use of the 'Iron Sting' precision munition system for the first time in a military operation. The IDF's elite Maglan Unit used this innovative technology to target Hamas rocket launchers in the Gaza Strip, demonstrating a new level of precision and effectiveness.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) recently made use of the 'Iron Sting' precision munition system for the first time in a military operation. The IDF's elite Maglan Unit used this innovative technology to target Hamas rocket launchers in the Gaza Strip, demonstrating a new level of precision and effectiveness. This deployment comes at a crucial time when Israel faces allegations of civilian casualties in Gaza following a barbaric Hamas attack in southern Israel on October 7. The 'Iron Sting' system was born out of collaborative efforts between the Israeli military and the renowned defence firm, Elbit Systems. Within the Israeli military, it was the Directorate of Defence Research and Development in the Ministry of Defence and the Israel Defence Force's Ground Forces that spearheaded its development. Elbit Systems, a key player in the Israeli defence industry, played a vital role in shaping the 'Iron Sting' into a reality. What are its features? The 'Iron Sting' stands out as a precision laser and GPS-guided mortar munition. Its primary ammunition is 120mm mortar rounds, and it boasts remarkable accuracy. This munition system is designed to target a wide range of distances, with an impeccable range spanning from 1 to 12 kilometres, contingent on the ammunition used. The most impressive feature is that the 'Iron Sting' is suitable for deployment in both urban environments and open terrains, rendering it a versatile solution. Also read | What's inside Israel's safe rooms shielding people from Hamas airstrikes? Another feature is the ability to penetrate double-reinforced concrete, making it a formidable force in urban warfare. This capability gives Israeli forces a significant advantage in operations that demand precision and minimal collateral damage. A decade in the making Yaniv Rotem, the head of the Defence Ministry's Administration for the Development of Weapons and Technological Infrastructure, told the Times of Israel, that the 'Iron Sting' had been in development for a decade. He described it as "groundbreaking" and explained that it empowers infantry units with a level of accuracy that was previously achievable only through missiles and airborne weaponry. The testing phase of this groundbreaking system concluded in March 2021, setting the stage for its operational debut. During IDF's intense bombing in Gaza, the 'Iron Sting' was showcased as an "innovative and accurate mortar bomb." The IDF even shared a video showing the 120mm mortar in action, accurately targeting and neutralising an enemy rocket launcher, thereby minimising the risk to civilians. מפא"ת, זרוע היבשה בצה"ל ואלביט מערכות השלימו לאחרונה סדרת ניסויי ירי מוצלחת בפצצת מרגמה מדויקת מונחית לייזר ו-GPS. הסדרה חותמת את שלב הפיתוח של הפצמ"ר, "עוקץ פלדה", לקראת המסירה לצה"ל. הפצמ״ר נועד לאפשר אש מדויקת וקטלנית בשטחים פתוחים ובמתחמים אורבניים, תוך צמצום נזק היקפי. pic.twitter.com/CJscK2zBbw — משרד הביטחון (@MoDIsrael) March 14, 2021 × The Federal quoted Major General Omer Cohen, commander of the Maglan unit, praising the 'Iron Sting' and its precision, lethality, and expertise of the fighters. He revealed that the Maglan unit, in cooperation with the Air Force, had successfully thwarted numerous terrorists using various means, with the 'Iron Sting' being a crucial component. This munition system played a significant role in eliminating over 100 operatives within Gaza since the conflict's outset. Also read | Israel considering inundating Hamas’ underground tunnels before ground invasion: Report Transforming the battlefield Colonel Assaf Shatzkin, head of the land systems department in the ministry's research division, said in a statement that the 'Iron Sting' would greatly benefit the Israeli army in confrontations with adversaries like Hamas and Hezbollah. He highlighted its precision in striking short-range targets within several kilometres, with an accuracy level of a few metres. Then-defence minister Benny Gantz, speaking in March, acknowledged the transformative potential of the 'Iron Sting.' He stated that this system "changes the battlefield" by equipping Israeli forces with more accurate and effective means, ushering in a new era of precision warfare. The Israeli military has faced the complex challenge of battling Palestinian militants in the densely populated Gaza Strip while simultaneously preparing for potential conflicts with Hezbollah militants in Lebanon. This dual threat landscape necessitates innovative solutions that minimise civilian casualties and collateral damage, making the 'Iron Sting' system all the more relevant. Controversial history The use of precision munitions and advanced weaponry by Israel has often stirred controversy. The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court launched a preliminary investigation into possible war crimes by Israel during its 2014 conflict in Gaza, where hundreds of civilians lost their lives. This ongoing scrutiny highlights the importance of developing and using technologies that can differentiate between combatants and non-combatants, minimising the risk to innocent lives. Amid escalating tensions and violence, it is widely anticipated that Israel will launch a ground offensive in Gaza in response to Hamas's October 7 attack into southern Israeli communities. The massing of tanks and troops at the Gaza border, along with increased airstrikes, is indicative of Israel's readiness to engage in the next stages of the conflict. Also watch | Israel demands UN chief, Antonio Guterres resignation Human toll The ongoing violence has resulted in a significant loss of life on both sides. In Israel, over 1,400 people have been killed, primarily civilians who were victims of the initial Hamas attack. Additionally, over 222 individuals were captured and taken back to Gaza, including foreign nationals. Two Americans were released in a recent development. On the Palestinian side, more than 5,000 individuals, including around 2,000 minors and 1,100 women, have lost their lives. These casualties underscore the urgency of finding ways to mitigate the human toll of conflicts in the region. This current war marks the deadliest of five wars fought between Israel and Hamas in the last 15 years. 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.

Explained | What is Iron Sting, the system that can put Israel ahead of Hamas in the war?

<p>Russia and the United States on Wednesday (Oct 25) voted against each others’ draft resolutions which has further deepened the United Nations Security Council’s deadlock over any unified response to address the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The proposals come days after the US vetoed a draft resolution proposed by Brazil which condemned the October 7 terror attacks in Israel by Hamas and called for “humanitarian pauses” in the fighting to allow for aid delivery.</p>

<p>However, US ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield at the time criticised the text for not mentioning Israel’s right to defend itself.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Broadly similar’ US and Russia proposals</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, both resolutions are said to be similarly worded but the Russia-led proposal calls for a “humanitarian ceasefire” while the US has called for a “humanitarian pause” to enable the safe delivery of aid to civilians in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both resolutions condemned the terror attacks by Hamas on Israeli civilians and urged the UN to address the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia, China veto US-led resolution</strong></h2>

<p>Russia and China vetoed the US-led resolution which reportedly shocked several diplomats as it said Israel has a right to defend itself and demanded Iran stop exporting arms to militant groups.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nine countries, aside from the US, voted in favour of the Washington-led resolution – Albania, France, Ecuador, Gabon, Ghana, Japan, Malta, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, it was rejected since China and Russia – two permanent members of the council – voted against the proposal. Brazil and Mozambique abstained from voting.</p>

<p>Ahead of the vote, Thomas-Greenfield said that the US has “worked exhaustively to draft a strong and balanced text.” She also said that in drafting the resolution, “we listened, we engaged” with humanitarian agencies and that the draft includes mechanisms to protect civilians and UN personnel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, after the resolution was double vetoed, Thomas-Greenfield told the 15-member council that she was disappointed and “though today’s vote was a setback, we must not be deterred.”</p>

<p>“The draft does not reflect the world’s strongest calls for a ceasefire, an end to the fighting, and it does not help resolve the issue,” said China’s UN Ambassador Zhang Jun after the vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “At this moment, ceasefire is not just a diplomatic term. It means the life and death of many civilians.”</p>

<h2><strong>Russia-led resolutions fails to garner enough votes</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Russia-led resolution calls for a “humanitarian ceasefire” and immediate cancellation of evacuation orders by the Israeli army forcing around one million people from northern Gaza to head to the southern part of the Gaza Strip ahead of the ground assault.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia’s Ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzya told the council he did not see the point of supporting the US-led draft which, according to him, served the geopolitical interests of one of the members of the council.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Russian proposal failed to garner the minimum number of votes – four – to pass the resolution. A resolution needs at least nine votes and no vetoes by the five permanent members of the Security Council in order for it to be adopted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Four countries that voted in favour of Russia’s resolution were China, Gabon, and UAE while the US and UK voted against it. Additionally, nine countries abstained from voting for Russia’s proposal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was Russia’s second attempt at a resolution after only five members voted in favour of its previous text on October 16.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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Russia and the United States on Wednesday (Oct 25) voted against each others’ draft resolutions which has further deepened the United Nations Security Council’s deadlock over any unified response to address the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Russia and the United States on Wednesday (Oct 25) voted against each others’ draft resolutions which has further deepened the United Nations Security Council’s deadlock over any unified response to address the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The proposals come days after the US vetoed a draft resolution proposed by Brazil which condemned the October 7 terror attacks in Israel by Hamas and called for “humanitarian pauses” in the fighting to allow for aid delivery. However, US ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield at the time criticised the text for not mentioning Israel’s right to defend itself. ‘Broadly similar’ US and Russia proposals Notably, both resolutions are said to be similarly worded but the Russia-led proposal calls for a “humanitarian ceasefire” while the US has called for a “humanitarian pause” to enable the safe delivery of aid to civilians in Gaza. Both resolutions condemned the terror attacks by Hamas on Israeli civilians and urged the UN to address the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. Russia, China veto US-led resolution Russia and China vetoed the US-led resolution which reportedly shocked several diplomats as it said Israel has a right to defend itself and demanded Iran stop exporting arms to militant groups. Nine countries, aside from the US, voted in favour of the Washington-led resolution – Albania, France, Ecuador, Gabon, Ghana, Japan, Malta, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. However, it was rejected since China and Russia – two permanent members of the council – voted against the proposal. Brazil and Mozambique abstained from voting. Ahead of the vote, Thomas-Greenfield said that the US has “worked exhaustively to draft a strong and balanced text.” She also said that in drafting the resolution, “we listened, we engaged” with humanitarian agencies and that the draft includes mechanisms to protect civilians and UN personnel. However, after the resolution was double vetoed, Thomas-Greenfield told the 15-member council that she was disappointed and “though today’s vote was a setback, we must not be deterred.” “The draft does not reflect the world’s strongest calls for a ceasefire, an end to the fighting, and it does not help resolve the issue,” said China’s UN Ambassador Zhang Jun after the vote. He added, “At this moment, ceasefire is not just a diplomatic term. It means the life and death of many civilians.” Russia-led resolutions fails to garner enough votes Meanwhile, the Russia-led resolution calls for a “humanitarian ceasefire” and immediate cancellation of evacuation orders by the Israeli army forcing around one million people from northern Gaza to head to the southern part of the Gaza Strip ahead of the ground assault. Russia’s Ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzya told the council he did not see the point of supporting the US-led draft which, according to him, served the geopolitical interests of one of the members of the council. However, the Russian proposal failed to garner the minimum number of votes – four – to pass the resolution. A resolution needs at least nine votes and no vetoes by the five permanent members of the Security Council in order for it to be adopted. Four countries that voted in favour of Russia’s resolution were China, Gabon, and UAE while the US and UK voted against it. Additionally, nine countries abstained from voting for Russia’s proposal. This was Russia’s second attempt at a resolution after only five members voted in favour of its previous text on October 16. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Russia, US proposals for UN action on Israel, Gaza rejected at Security Council

<p>Israel launched a brief incursion into Gaza with tanks taking part in a "targeted raid" overnight in the northern part, the army said in a statement on Thursday (Oct 26). This comes amid <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-un-security-council-to-vote-on-resolutions-proposed-by-us-russia-for-gaza-651304">Israel's preparation for a ground invasion</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Overnight, the IDF conducted a targeted raid using tanks in the northern Gaza Strip, as part of preparations for the next stages of combat," the army said, further adding that "the soldiers exited the area at the end of the activity".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a televised statement late Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that they were "preparing for a ground offensive", besides the heavy bombing campaign of Hamas-controlled Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu said the decision on when forces would go into the Palestinian enclave would be taken by the government's special war cabinet, which includes the leader of one of the centrist opposition parties.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-idf-mulls-ground-operation-in-gaza-here-is-what-postwar-scenario-would-look-like-651399">As IDF mulls ground operation in Gaza, here is what post-war scenario might look like</a></strong></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In preparation for the next stages of combat, the IDF operated in northern Gaza.<br />
<br />
IDF tanks &amp; infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts.<br />
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The soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory. <a href="https://t.co/oMdSDR84rU">pic.twitter.com/oMdSDR84rU</a></p>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1717401249199329634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Netanyahu said, "We have already killed thousands of terrorists and this is only the beginning". He added, "Simultaneously, we are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how or how many. I will also not elaborate on the various calculations we are making, which the public is mostly unaware of and that is how things should be."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israel-Palestine conflict escalated after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on Oct 7, killing more than 1,400 people, as per Israeli officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel waged war, calling it retaliatory actions, which has killed more than 6,500 Gazans, as per the figures released by the Hamas-controlled health ministry in the territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-netanyahu-helped-grow-hamas-which-became-the-frankensteins-monster-for-him-651336">How Netanyahu helped turn Hamas into his Frankenstein's monster</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Israeli military said that during the overnight raid, "soldiers located and struck numerous terrorists, terror infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts, and operated to prepare the battlefield".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A spokesman for the military confirmed to the news agency AFP that this was not the first time Israeli soldiers and tanks had entered Gaza for limited incursions since Oct 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu, who has so far not taken responsibility for the security failures that led to the Hamas attack, said all involved would be called to account.</p>

<p>He said, "The scandal will be fully investigated. Everyone will have to give answers, me too. But all this will happen only after the war."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


Israel launched a brief incursion into Gaza with tanks taking part in a "targeted raid" overnight in the northern part, the army said in a statement on Thursday (Oct 26).

Israel launched a brief incursion into Gaza with tanks taking part in a "targeted raid" overnight in the northern part, the army said in a statement on Thursday (Oct 26). This comes amid Israel's preparation for a ground invasion. "Overnight, the IDF conducted a targeted raid using tanks in the northern Gaza Strip, as part of preparations for the next stages of combat," the army said, further adding that "the soldiers exited the area at the end of the activity". In a televised statement late Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that they were "preparing for a ground offensive", besides the heavy bombing campaign of Hamas-controlled Gaza. Netanyahu said the decision on when forces would go into the Palestinian enclave would be taken by the government's special war cabinet, which includes the leader of one of the centrist opposition parties. Also read: As IDF mulls ground operation in Gaza, here is what post-war scenario might look like Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. In preparation for the next stages of combat, the IDF operated in northern Gaza. IDF tanks & infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts. The soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory. pic.twitter.com/oMdSDR84rU — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 26, 2023 × Netanyahu said, "We have already killed thousands of terrorists and this is only the beginning". He added, "Simultaneously, we are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how or how many. I will also not elaborate on the various calculations we are making, which the public is mostly unaware of and that is how things should be." The Israel-Palestine conflict escalated after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on Oct 7, killing more than 1,400 people, as per Israeli officials. Israel waged war, calling it retaliatory actions, which has killed more than 6,500 Gazans, as per the figures released by the Hamas-controlled health ministry in the territory. Also read: How Netanyahu helped turn Hamas into his Frankenstein's monster The Israeli military said that during the overnight raid, "soldiers located and struck numerous terrorists, terror infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts, and operated to prepare the battlefield". A spokesman for the military confirmed to the news agency AFP that this was not the first time Israeli soldiers and tanks had entered Gaza for limited incursions since Oct 7. Netanyahu, who has so far not taken responsibility for the security failures that led to the Hamas attack, said all involved would be called to account. He said, "The scandal will be fully investigated. Everyone will have to give answers, me too. But all this will happen only after the war." Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israeli tanks conduct overnight 'targeted raid' in northern Gaza during brief incursion

<p>United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday (Oct 25) expressed “shock” over the gross “misinterpretation” of his remarks made in the Security Council, after Israel perceived them to be justifying Hamas terrorist’s October 7 attack.</p>

<p>Israel was peeved with the UN secretary-general on Tuesday for saying that the deadly Hamas attack on southern Israel “did not happen in a vacuum”.</p>

<p>Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan accused him of "justifying terrorism" and demanded his immediate resignation.</p>

<p>Briefing the reporters on Wednesday, Guterres, without mentioning Israel, said, “I am shocked by misinterpretations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council – as if it was justifying acts of terror by Hamas. This is false. It was the opposite.”</p>

<p>“In the beginning of my intervention yesterday, I clearly stated – and I quote: ‘I have condemned unequivocally the horrifying and unprecedented 7 October acts of terror by Hamas in Israel’.”</p>

<p>He clarified that his remarks in no way justified the assault by Hamas.</p>

<p>“Nothing can justify the deliberate killing, injuring and kidnapping of civilians – or the launching of rockets against civilian targets.” &nbsp;</p>

<p>“I spoke of the grievances of the Palestinian people. In doing so, I clearly stated, and I quote: ‘But the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas’.”</p>

<p>He said that he was clarifying his earlier remarks in order to “set the record straight”.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-stops-un-staff-visas-after-antonio-guterres-branded-terror-apologist-over-controversial-hamas-remarks-651243">Israel stops UN staff visas after Antonio Guterres branded 'terror apologist' over controversial Hamas remarks</a></p>

<p>“I believe it’s necessary to set the record straight – especially out of respect for the victims and their families.”</p>

<h2><strong>What did Guterres say that irked Israel?</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, while addressing the Security Council in New York, the UN chief&nbsp;said that it was "important to "recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum" as the Palestinians have been "subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-envoy-demands-immediate-resignation-of-un-chief-after-he-raises-concerns-over-violation-of-law-in-gaza-650832">Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’</a></strong></p>

<p>He further said that&nbsp;Israel’s bombardment and blockade of the&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;Strip was the “collective punishment of the Palestinian people” and “clear violations of international humanitarian law”, infuriating not only Israel but also some Republican members.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel vows to punish UN with its visa policy&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The remarks created furore in Israel, with&nbsp;Foreign Minister Eli Cohen cancelling&nbsp;a meeting with&nbsp;Guterres and&nbsp;Israel’s envoy to UN Gilad Erdan demanded his resignation, saying that the<strong>&nbsp;</strong>UN chief has "expressed an understanding for terrorism and murder."</p>

<p>Erdan even went a step further by threatening to refuse visas to the UN representatives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Due to his remarks we will refuse to issue visas to UN representatives," Erdan said. "We have already refused a visa for Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths. The time has come to teach them a lesson."</p>


United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday (Oct 25) expressed “shock” over the gross “misinterpretation” of his remarks made in the Security Council, after Israel perceived them to be justifying Hamas terrorist’s October 7 attack.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday (Oct 25) expressed “shock” over the gross “misinterpretation” of his remarks made in the Security Council, after Israel perceived them to be justifying Hamas terrorist’s October 7 attack. Israel was peeved with the UN secretary-general on Tuesday for saying that the deadly Hamas attack on southern Israel “did not happen in a vacuum”. Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan accused him of "justifying terrorism" and demanded his immediate resignation. Briefing the reporters on Wednesday, Guterres, without mentioning Israel, said, “I am shocked by misinterpretations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council – as if it was justifying acts of terror by Hamas. This is false. It was the opposite.” “In the beginning of my intervention yesterday, I clearly stated – and I quote: ‘I have condemned unequivocally the horrifying and unprecedented 7 October acts of terror by Hamas in Israel’.” He clarified that his remarks in no way justified the assault by Hamas. “Nothing can justify the deliberate killing, injuring and kidnapping of civilians – or the launching of rockets against civilian targets.” “I spoke of the grievances of the Palestinian people. In doing so, I clearly stated, and I quote: ‘But the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas’.” He said that he was clarifying his earlier remarks in order to “set the record straight”. Also read | Israel stops UN staff visas after Antonio Guterres branded 'terror apologist' over controversial Hamas remarks “I believe it’s necessary to set the record straight – especially out of respect for the victims and their families.” What did Guterres say that irked Israel? On Tuesday, while addressing the Security Council in New York, the UN chief said that it was "important to "recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum" as the Palestinians have been "subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation." Also read | Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’ He further said that Israel’s bombardment and blockade of the Gaza Strip was the “collective punishment of the Palestinian people” and “clear violations of international humanitarian law”, infuriating not only Israel but also some Republican members. Israel vows to punish UN with its visa policy The remarks created furore in Israel, with Foreign Minister Eli Cohen cancelling a meeting with Guterres and Israel’s envoy to UN Gilad Erdan demanded his resignation, saying that the UN chief has "expressed an understanding for terrorism and murder." Erdan even went a step further by threatening to refuse visas to the UN representatives. "Due to his remarks we will refuse to issue visas to UN representatives," Erdan said. "We have already refused a visa for Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths. The time has come to teach them a lesson."

‘Need to set the record straight’: UN chief clarifies his Hamas remarks that riled Israel

<p>Police in the western German city of Duisburg, on Tuesday (Oct 24) said that they had arrested a man who was allegedly planning a terror attack. According to German media reports, the man was suspected of planning an attack on a pro-Israeli demonstration.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the police say?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the police, the man was arrested from his home in Duisburg after they received “indications of a possible attack scenario”. However, whether the man was preparing an attack “is under investigation,” said the local police in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The apartment of the person “who was already known to the police”&nbsp;in the city's Dellviertel neighbourhood&nbsp;was also searched&nbsp;and he was taken into custody, said the police.</p>

<h2><strong>German media reports on the incident</strong></h2>

<p>The man, who was identified by the German media reports as 29-year-old Tarik S, had previously been sentenced to five years imprisonment for his membership of the Islamic State. According to several media reports, he was a German-Egyptian national who allegedly planned to attack a pro-Israel demonstration.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-biden-saudi-crown-prince-discuss-efforts-to-prevent-conflict-from-expanding-650897">Israel-Hamas war: Biden, Saudi crown prince discuss efforts to prevent conflict from ‘expanding’</a></strong></p>

<p>German magazine Der Spiegel weekly and newspaper Bild reported that police had received a tip-off from the country’s foreign intelligence service. The alert was deemed serious enough that the 29-year-old was reportedly arrested under the country’s Risk Prevention Act.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man had, among other things, searched the internet for pro-Israeli demonstrations and consulted jihadist content, fuelling fears that he wanted to plan an attack, according to the reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-envoy-demands-immediate-resignation-of-un-chief-after-he-raises-concerns-over-violation-of-law-in-gaza-650832">Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’</a></strong></p>

<p>It was not immediately clear if the suspect had planned on targeting a specific demonstration. As of Tuesday evening, the Duisburg police said that they could not confirm the identity of the suspect in custody.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Der Spiegel, Tarik S&nbsp;travelled to Syria via Turkey at the end of 2013, where he joined the Islamic State group and was arrested at Frankfurt airport upon his return three years later.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-air-force-drops-leaflets-in-gaza-seeking-information-on-hostages-650774">Israel air force drops leaflets in Gaza seeking information on hostages</a></strong></p>

<p>The incident comes in the midst of hundreds of pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian rallies across the world, including in Germany, amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, which began after the Palestinian militant group launched a surprise attack against Israel, with the latter retaliating with constant bombardment of Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Police in the western German city of Duisburg, on Tuesday (Oct 24) said that they had arrested a man who was allegedly planning a terror attack. According to German media reports, the man was suspected of planning an attack on a pro-Israeli demonstration.

Police in the western German city of Duisburg, on Tuesday (Oct 24) said that they had arrested a man who was allegedly planning a terror attack. According to German media reports, the man was suspected of planning an attack on a pro-Israeli demonstration. What did the police say? According to the police, the man was arrested from his home in Duisburg after they received “indications of a possible attack scenario”. However, whether the man was preparing an attack “is under investigation,” said the local police in a statement. The apartment of the person “who was already known to the police” in the city's Dellviertel neighbourhood was also searched and he was taken into custody, said the police. German media reports on the incident The man, who was identified by the German media reports as 29-year-old Tarik S, had previously been sentenced to five years imprisonment for his membership of the Islamic State. According to several media reports, he was a German-Egyptian national who allegedly planned to attack a pro-Israel demonstration. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: Biden, Saudi crown prince discuss efforts to prevent conflict from ‘expanding’ German magazine Der Spiegel weekly and newspaper Bild reported that police had received a tip-off from the country’s foreign intelligence service. The alert was deemed serious enough that the 29-year-old was reportedly arrested under the country’s Risk Prevention Act. The man had, among other things, searched the internet for pro-Israeli demonstrations and consulted jihadist content, fuelling fears that he wanted to plan an attack, according to the reports. ALSO READ | Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’ It was not immediately clear if the suspect had planned on targeting a specific demonstration. As of Tuesday evening, the Duisburg police said that they could not confirm the identity of the suspect in custody. According to Der Spiegel, Tarik S travelled to Syria via Turkey at the end of 2013, where he joined the Islamic State group and was arrested at Frankfurt airport upon his return three years later. ALSO READ | Israel air force drops leaflets in Gaza seeking information on hostages The incident comes in the midst of hundreds of pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian rallies across the world, including in Germany, amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, which began after the Palestinian militant group launched a surprise attack against Israel, with the latter retaliating with constant bombardment of Gaza. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Germany arrests man on suspicion of planning an attack on ‘pro-Israel demonstration’: Reports

<p>Israel alleged that Hamas, a Palestine-based group which has been designated a terrorist organisation by many countries, offered $10,000 and an apartment to its militants if they brought a hostage back to Gaza with them when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, <em>The Jerusalem Post </em>reported citing a video released by Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the attack, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-50-palestinians-killed-in-one-hour-in-gaza-no-aid-entered-on-tuesday-says-un-650884">Hamas militants</a> killed more than 1,400 people, as per the Israeli authorities, and took around 200 people as hostages, some of whom have now been released.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel's security agency Shin Bet and the country's police force shared the footage, which claims to feature several detained Hamas militants, who were being interrogated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video appears to show an unnamed Hamas militant who said that he was given orders to "kidnap as many as possible" during the attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, the man who was being interrogated said that Hamas offered property and money for each person captured. This was mentioned by a company commander of the Al-Qassam Brigades.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-considering-inundating-hamas-underground-tunnels-before-ground-invasion-report-651029">Israel considering inundating Hamas’ underground tunnels before ground invasion</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🔴 YOU MUST WATCH THIS! 🔴<br />
<br />
Captured Hamas terrorists ADMIT crimes against humanity!<br />
<br />
"We were told whoever brings a hostage gets $10,000" <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HamasTerrorists?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HamasTerrorists</a> <a href="https://t.co/9JyntYmwd3">pic.twitter.com/9JyntYmwd3</a></p>
— Hananya Naftali (@HananyaNaftali) <a href="https://twitter.com/HananyaNaftali/status/1716897912775684373?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>As quoted by The Jerusalem Post, one person said in the video: "The instructions were to kidnap women and children". Meanwhile, another described an encounter with a dead body, saying: "Her body was lying on the floor. I shot her, and my commander yelled at me for wasting bullets on a dead body." &nbsp;</p>

<p>They said that they were asked not to distinguish between civilians and soldiers, making it clear that when it came to murder, they were not to distinguish between the two.</p>

<p>"When we finished, we burned two houses," said another Hamas militant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-kicked-out-of-israeli-textbooks-after-stand-with-gaza-row-651005">Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"Two [terrorists] went into the house ... we heard voices inside. Another two came in. There was one lying on the floor next to the door. I don't know if he was dead, but there was blood next to him. Inside there was one wounded man... I think a whole family. In their pyjamas. The wounded man was in his underwear. A woman came out wearing a dress... then another with a dress. [Then] a boy and a girl," one of the militants described entering a house after his comrades went inside.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We went to the next house. From there, they took out a woman. An old woman," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked if family members were used as human shields, the Hamas militants answered "Yes".&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the terrorists, who was at Be'eri, told interrogators: "When I entered the town, I saw two [terrorists] on a motorbike. They took a woman about 60-65 years old [with them] on the motorbike."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that they took the woman to Gaza when the interrogator asked about her.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

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Israel alleged that Hamas, a Palestine-based group which has been designated a terrorist organisation by many countries, offered $10,000 and an apartment to its militants if they brought a hostage back to Gaza with them when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, The Jerusalem Post reported citing a video released by Israel.

Israel alleged that Hamas, a Palestine-based group which has been designated a terrorist organisation by many countries, offered $10,000 and an apartment to its militants if they brought a hostage back to Gaza with them when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, The Jerusalem Post reported citing a video released by Israel. During the attack, Hamas militants killed more than 1,400 people, as per the Israeli authorities, and took around 200 people as hostages, some of whom have now been released. Israel's security agency Shin Bet and the country's police force shared the footage, which claims to feature several detained Hamas militants, who were being interrogated. The video appears to show an unnamed Hamas militant who said that he was given orders to "kidnap as many as possible" during the attacks. In the video, the man who was being interrogated said that Hamas offered property and money for each person captured. This was mentioned by a company commander of the Al-Qassam Brigades. Also read: Israel considering inundating Hamas’ underground tunnels before ground invasion Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Watch the video here: 🔴 YOU MUST WATCH THIS! 🔴 Captured Hamas terrorists ADMIT crimes against humanity! "We were told whoever brings a hostage gets $10,000" #HamasTerrorists pic.twitter.com/9JyntYmwd3 — Hananya Naftali (@HananyaNaftali) October 24, 2023 × As quoted by The Jerusalem Post, one person said in the video: "The instructions were to kidnap women and children". Meanwhile, another described an encounter with a dead body, saying: "Her body was lying on the floor. I shot her, and my commander yelled at me for wasting bullets on a dead body." They said that they were asked not to distinguish between civilians and soldiers, making it clear that when it came to murder, they were not to distinguish between the two. "When we finished, we burned two houses," said another Hamas militant. Also read: Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row "Two [terrorists] went into the house ... we heard voices inside. Another two came in. There was one lying on the floor next to the door. I don't know if he was dead, but there was blood next to him. Inside there was one wounded man... I think a whole family. In their pyjamas. The wounded man was in his underwear. A woman came out wearing a dress... then another with a dress. [Then] a boy and a girl," one of the militants described entering a house after his comrades went inside. "We went to the next house. From there, they took out a woman. An old woman," he added. On being asked if family members were used as human shields, the Hamas militants answered "Yes". One of the terrorists, who was at Be'eri, told interrogators: "When I entered the town, I saw two [terrorists] on a motorbike. They took a woman about 60-65 years old [with them] on the motorbike." He said that they took the woman to Gaza when the interrogator asked about her. (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Captured Hamas militant claims he was offered $10K, apartment as reward for bringing hostages

<p>Israeli President Isaac Herzog said in an interview that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-had-intentions-of-using-chemical-weapons-as-part-of-terror-attack-report-649949">Hamas militants had plans to use cyanide agents</a> against Israeli civilians when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, killing more than 1,400 people and taking around 200 hostages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the interview with Sky News, Herzog supported his claims by showing material recovered from a USB drive on the body of a Hamas terrorist.&nbsp;The document was copied from al-Qaeda and had "detailed instructions on creating chemical weapons". It also included "precise instructions for preparing a device for dispersing cyanide agents".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is material which was found on the body of one of those sadistic villains. It's al-Qaeda material, official al-Qaeda material. When dealing with ISIS, al-Qaeda, and Hamas, this is what we're dealing with. And in this material, there were instructions, on how to produce chemical weapons," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tensions continue to escalate, and several claims and counterclaims are being made. But there's no data that would substantiate what Hamas planned, or whether or not the militants&nbsp;were carrying the elements to make a bomb.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There's no confirmation of the use of chemical weapons in the Israel-Hamas war which started after the Oct 7 attack. But let's decode what exactly chemical weapons are.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-white-phosphorus-bombs-that-israel-reportedly-launched-in-gaza-it-is-legal-to-use-645106">What are white phosphorus bombs that Israel reportedly used in Gaza? Is it illegal?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>What are chemical weapons?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A Chemical Weapon (CW) is a chemical used to cause intentional death or harm through its toxic properties. Chemical weapons also include munitions, gadgets, and other equipment specifically designed to weaponise toxic substances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) says that any chemical which through its chemical action on life processes can cause death, temporary incapacitation or permanent harm&nbsp;through its toxic properties is termed a chemical weapon. Chlorine, which is a&nbsp;non-controlled chemical, could also become a chemical weapon if used in a conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chemical weapons are&nbsp;condemned by human rights groups, but white phosphorous is not banned by the CWC. Neither are cluster munitions, which fall under a separate international treaty.</p>

<p>Chemical weapons can be used in warfare and are known by the military acronym NBC (for nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare). They are different from nuclear weapons, biological weapons, and radiological weapons, but are classified as weapons of mass destruction (WMD).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chemical weapons are cheap and simple to make, allowing even small terrorist groups to cause mass casualties in small quantities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-israel-hamas-war-spreading-al-qaeda-and-is-call-on-followers-to-attack-jewish-and-us-targets-650184">Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, al-Qaeda, Islamic State call for global attacks</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>How chemical weapons are used?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Chemical weapons are extremely toxic synthetic chemicals and can be extensively disseminated in gas, liquid, and solid forms. They can readily injure anyone other than the intended targets. Chemical weapons in the modern era include nerve gas, tear gas, and pepper spray.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These CW agents can be deadly or incapacitate&nbsp;humans. They vary from explosive compounds, in that their damaging effects are localised and triggered by shear stress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are thousands of toxic substances known, but only a few of them are considered CW agents based on their characteristics, such as high toxicity, imperceptibility to senses, rapidity of action after dissemination, and persistency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Are chemical weapons banned?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The 1925 Protocol for the Prohibition of the Use of Asphyxiating, Poisonous or Other Gases, and of Bacteriological Methods of Warfare, commonly known as the 1925 Geneva Protocol, bans the use of chemical and bacteriological (biological) weapons in war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chemical weapons production, use and stockpiling are banned under the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Some nations, such as Egypt, North Korea and South Sudan, have not signed or ratified the international arms control treaty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under the treaty, the use of the most dangerous "scheduled" toxins and their precursors is banned. This includes nerve agents sarin, VX and the Soviet-era developed Novichok, as well as the poison ricin and blistering agent sulphur mustard.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-family-destroyed-16-year-old-british-teen-noiya-sharabi-confirmed-dead-in-tragic-hamas-attack-650157">A 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Are there long-term effects of chemical weapons?</strong></h2>

<p>Lancet conducted a study, published in 2002, after analysing volunteers who suffered such attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study mentioned that those who have claimed that they were exposed to chemical warfare agents have often presented with "unusual clinical syndromes or symptom complexes that have caused controversy".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nerve agents such as sarin, tabun, and soman, are believed to have the most severe long-term consequences.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In some cases, altered neuromuscular function, abnormal electroencephalograms, and impaired psychomotor performance have been reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This could affect behaviour, intelligence, and memory, especially if the initial exposure induced cerebral abnormalities detectable via MRI or electroencephalogram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There can be other effects as well, but it needs more data and analysis to find out other long-term effects, which also vary from case to case.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>When were such weapons used?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>There have been various instances when chemical weapons were deployed. After the development of industrial chemistry in the 19th century, mass manufacturing and deployment of CW agents in warfare became a possibility.</p>

<p>History books have mentioned the German gas attack with chlorine on April 22, 1915, at Ypres, Belgium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During World War I, the use of these toxic chemicals, including phosgene, sulfur mustard and lewisites, caused 100,000 deaths.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During World War II, Nazis used Zyklon B gas (hydrogen cyanide gas) which killed millions of civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United States used Agent Orange, a defoliant, during the Vietnam War.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another instance was in the 1980s during the Iran-Iraq war. An Iraqi nerve agent strike was reportedly launched on the Kurdish civilian population of Halabja, killing hundreds of people.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How al-Qaeda has used chemical weapons in attacks?</strong></h2>

<p>From late 2006 to mid-2007, al-Qaeda in Iraq detonated a series of crude chlorine bombs in Iraq. The New America Foundation discovered a total of 16 chlorine gas bombs in Iraq, the most recent of which occurred in June 2007.</p>

<p>On Oct 21, 2006, al-Qaeda in Iraq initiated its chlorine bomb campaign in Ramadi by detonating a car filled with mortars and chlorine tanks, injuring three Iraqi police officers and a civilian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Most publications on al-Qaeda's chemical weapons operations simply claim that there is evidence that it is interested in creating or acquiring chemical weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 11th volume of al-Qaeda’s Encyclopedia of Jihad talks about how to construct chemical and biological weapons. Osama bin Laden claimed: "‘We have chemical and nuclear weapons as a deterrent and if America used them against us we reserve the right to use them." His remarks came during an interview with a Pakistani journalist in 2001.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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Israeli President Isaac Herzog said in an interview that Hamas militants had plans to use cyanide agents against Israeli civilians when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, killing more than 1,400 people and taking around 200 hostages.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog said in an interview that Hamas militants had plans to use cyanide agents against Israeli civilians when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, killing more than 1,400 people and taking around 200 hostages. During the interview with Sky News, Herzog supported his claims by showing material recovered from a USB drive on the body of a Hamas terrorist. The document was copied from al-Qaeda and had "detailed instructions on creating chemical weapons". It also included "precise instructions for preparing a device for dispersing cyanide agents". "This is material which was found on the body of one of those sadistic villains. It's al-Qaeda material, official al-Qaeda material. When dealing with ISIS, al-Qaeda, and Hamas, this is what we're dealing with. And in this material, there were instructions, on how to produce chemical weapons," he said. Tensions continue to escalate, and several claims and counterclaims are being made. But there's no data that would substantiate what Hamas planned, or whether or not the militants were carrying the elements to make a bomb. There's no confirmation of the use of chemical weapons in the Israel-Hamas war which started after the Oct 7 attack. But let's decode what exactly chemical weapons are. Also read: What are white phosphorus bombs that Israel reportedly used in Gaza? Is it illegal? What are chemical weapons? A Chemical Weapon (CW) is a chemical used to cause intentional death or harm through its toxic properties. Chemical weapons also include munitions, gadgets, and other equipment specifically designed to weaponise toxic substances. The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) says that any chemical which through its chemical action on life processes can cause death, temporary incapacitation or permanent harm through its toxic properties is termed a chemical weapon. Chlorine, which is a non-controlled chemical, could also become a chemical weapon if used in a conflict. Chemical weapons are condemned by human rights groups, but white phosphorous is not banned by the CWC. Neither are cluster munitions, which fall under a separate international treaty. Chemical weapons can be used in warfare and are known by the military acronym NBC (for nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare). They are different from nuclear weapons, biological weapons, and radiological weapons, but are classified as weapons of mass destruction (WMD). Chemical weapons are cheap and simple to make, allowing even small terrorist groups to cause mass casualties in small quantities. Also read: Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, al-Qaeda, Islamic State call for global attacks How chemical weapons are used? Chemical weapons are extremely toxic synthetic chemicals and can be extensively disseminated in gas, liquid, and solid forms. They can readily injure anyone other than the intended targets. Chemical weapons in the modern era include nerve gas, tear gas, and pepper spray. These CW agents can be deadly or incapacitate humans. They vary from explosive compounds, in that their damaging effects are localised and triggered by shear stress. There are thousands of toxic substances known, but only a few of them are considered CW agents based on their characteristics, such as high toxicity, imperceptibility to senses, rapidity of action after dissemination, and persistency. Watch this report: × Are chemical weapons banned? The 1925 Protocol for the Prohibition of the Use of Asphyxiating, Poisonous or Other Gases, and of Bacteriological Methods of Warfare, commonly known as the 1925 Geneva Protocol, bans the use of chemical and bacteriological (biological) weapons in war. Chemical weapons production, use and stockpiling are banned under the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Some nations, such as Egypt, North Korea and South Sudan, have not signed or ratified the international arms control treaty. Under the treaty, the use of the most dangerous "scheduled" toxins and their precursors is banned. This includes nerve agents sarin, VX and the Soviet-era developed Novichok, as well as the poison ricin and blistering agent sulphur mustard. Also read: A 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack Are there long-term effects of chemical weapons? Lancet conducted a study, published in 2002, after analysing volunteers who suffered such attacks. The study mentioned that those who have claimed that they were exposed to chemical warfare agents have often presented with "unusual clinical syndromes or symptom complexes that have caused controversy". Nerve agents such as sarin, tabun, and soman, are believed to have the most severe long-term consequences. In some cases, altered neuromuscular function, abnormal electroencephalograms, and impaired psychomotor performance have been reported. This could affect behaviour, intelligence, and memory, especially if the initial exposure induced cerebral abnormalities detectable via MRI or electroencephalogram. There can be other effects as well, but it needs more data and analysis to find out other long-term effects, which also vary from case to case. When were such weapons used? There have been various instances when chemical weapons were deployed. After the development of industrial chemistry in the 19th century, mass manufacturing and deployment of CW agents in warfare became a possibility. History books have mentioned the German gas attack with chlorine on April 22, 1915, at Ypres, Belgium. During World War I, the use of these toxic chemicals, including phosgene, sulfur mustard and lewisites, caused 100,000 deaths. During World War II, Nazis used Zyklon B gas (hydrogen cyanide gas) which killed millions of civilians. The United States used Agent Orange, a defoliant, during the Vietnam War. Another instance was in the 1980s during the Iran-Iraq war. An Iraqi nerve agent strike was reportedly launched on the Kurdish civilian population of Halabja, killing hundreds of people. How al-Qaeda has used chemical weapons in attacks? From late 2006 to mid-2007, al-Qaeda in Iraq detonated a series of crude chlorine bombs in Iraq. The New America Foundation discovered a total of 16 chlorine gas bombs in Iraq, the most recent of which occurred in June 2007. On Oct 21, 2006, al-Qaeda in Iraq initiated its chlorine bomb campaign in Ramadi by detonating a car filled with mortars and chlorine tanks, injuring three Iraqi police officers and a civilian. Most publications on al-Qaeda's chemical weapons operations simply claim that there is evidence that it is interested in creating or acquiring chemical weapons. The 11th volume of al-Qaeda’s Encyclopedia of Jihad talks about how to construct chemical and biological weapons. Osama bin Laden claimed: "‘We have chemical and nuclear weapons as a deterrent and if America used them against us we reserve the right to use them." His remarks came during an interview with a Pakistani journalist in 2001. (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Did Hamas plan to use chemical weapons on Israelis? What are these 'dirty' weapons?

<p>Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, on Tuesday (Oct 24), demanded UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's immediate resignation after he alleged violations of international law in Gaza.</p>

<p>Taking to his official X handle, Erdan wrote, "The UN Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly, is not fit to lead the UN."</p>

<p>"I call on him to resign immediately. There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most terrible atrocities committed against the citizens of Israel and the Jewish people. There are simply no words," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly, is not fit to lead the UN.<br />
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I call on him to resign immediately.<br />
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There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most…</p>
— Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/giladerdan1/status/1716837646813614354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen also recounted graphic accounts of civilian lives lost, on Oct 7, which is dubbed one of the deadliest single attacks in the country's history.</p>

<p>"Mr Secretary-General, in what world do you live?" Cohen said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-proposes-international-coalition-against-hamas-650752">French President Emmanuel Macron proposes international coalition against Hamas</a></p>

<p>Pointing out that Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005, Cohen said, "We gave the Palestinians Gaza till the last millimetre. There is no dispute in regards to the land of Gaza."</p>

<h2><strong>Guterres alleges violations of humanitarian law in Gaza</strong></h2>

<p>Guterres, on Tuesday (Oct 24), raised concerns over violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire as the Israeli counter-offensive continues in the besieged Palestinian enclave.</p>

<p>Opening the session, Guterres said there was no excuse for the "appalling" violence by Hamas militants on Oct 7 but also cautioned against "collective punishment" of the Palestinians.</p>

<p>"I am deeply concerned about the clear violations of international humanitarian law that we are witnessing in Gaza. Let me be clear: No party to an armed conflict is above international humanitarian law," Guterres told a Security Council session, without naming Israel.</p>

<p>He said that the Palestinians had been "subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation," telling the Security Council: "It is important to also recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, on Tuesday (Oct 24), demanded UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's immediate resignation after he alleged violations of international law in Gaza.

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, on Tuesday (Oct 24), demanded UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's immediate resignation after he alleged violations of international law in Gaza. Taking to his official X handle, Erdan wrote, "The UN Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly, is not fit to lead the UN." "I call on him to resign immediately. There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most terrible atrocities committed against the citizens of Israel and the Jewish people. There are simply no words," he added. The @UN Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly, is not fit to lead the UN. I call on him to resign immediately. There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most… — Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) October 24, 2023 × Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen also recounted graphic accounts of civilian lives lost, on Oct 7, which is dubbed one of the deadliest single attacks in the country's history. "Mr Secretary-General, in what world do you live?" Cohen said. Also read: French President Emmanuel Macron proposes international coalition against Hamas Pointing out that Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005, Cohen said, "We gave the Palestinians Gaza till the last millimetre. There is no dispute in regards to the land of Gaza." Guterres alleges violations of humanitarian law in Gaza Guterres, on Tuesday (Oct 24), raised concerns over violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire as the Israeli counter-offensive continues in the besieged Palestinian enclave. Opening the session, Guterres said there was no excuse for the "appalling" violence by Hamas militants on Oct 7 but also cautioned against "collective punishment" of the Palestinians. "I am deeply concerned about the clear violations of international humanitarian law that we are witnessing in Gaza. Let me be clear: No party to an armed conflict is above international humanitarian law," Guterres told a Security Council session, without naming Israel. He said that the Palestinians had been "subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation," telling the Security Council: "It is important to also recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’

<p>The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information.</p>

<p>When they launched cross-border raid into Israel in October 7, the Hamas terrorists captured more than 200 people.</p>

<p>"If your will is to live in peace and to have a better future for your children, do the humanitarian deed immediately and share verified and valuable information about hostages being held in your area," the Israeli military said in the leaflet.</p>

<p>"The Israeli military assures you that it will invest maximum effort in providing security for you and your home, and you will receive a financial reward. We guarantee you complete confidentiality."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Pressure grows on Israel to negotiate release of Gaza hostages</strong></p>

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<p>Phone numbers were provided in the leaflet to call with information.</p>

<p>AFP reported that people taking refuge at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in southern Gaza tore the leaflets after they were dropped by Israeli planes.</p>

<p>"We don't care, do whatever you want. All of us in Gaza are telling you, we are resisting, from east to west," said a Palestinian man as quoted by AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/been-through-hell-survivor-recounts-her-horrific-experience-as-hamas-captive-650680">'Been through hell': Survivor recounts her horrific experience as Hamas' captive</a></strong></p>

<p>Israel has massed forces near the border with the Gaza strip and there is speculation of a ground assault with an aim to free hostages and tackle Hamas.</p>

<p>Israel says that foreign nationals are among the hostages who have been taken to Gaza. The exact whereabouts of those abducted are not known.</p>

<h2><strong>Two hostages freed</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas on Tuesday, freed two elderly hostages. Yocheved Lifshitz (85) and Nurit Cooper (79) were among the people abducted by Hamas terrorists on October 7.</p>

<p>Lifshitz, seated in a wheelchair, interacted with media after her release.</p>

<p>While recounting her ordeal, she said that she 'went through hell'</p>

<p>She described how the terrorists "went on a rampage in our kibbutz, kidnapped me, lay me over a motorcycle... and sped off with me through the ploughed fields". She added that the fighters beat her on the way.</p>

<p>"...they didn't break my ribs but hurt me very much," she said.</p>

<p>She however said that during captivity, "they treated us well" adding that her captors were courteous and a doctor visited every two to three days.</p>

<p>Lifshitz's husband is still in captivity.</p>

<p>"They had everything that men and women needed including shampoo," she told journalists. "We ate the same food they did -- pitas with cream cheese, melted cheese, cucumbers."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information.

The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information. When they launched cross-border raid into Israel in October 7, the Hamas terrorists captured more than 200 people. "If your will is to live in peace and to have a better future for your children, do the humanitarian deed immediately and share verified and valuable information about hostages being held in your area," the Israeli military said in the leaflet. "The Israeli military assures you that it will invest maximum effort in providing security for you and your home, and you will receive a financial reward. We guarantee you complete confidentiality." Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Pressure grows on Israel to negotiate release of Gaza hostages × Phone numbers were provided in the leaflet to call with information. AFP reported that people taking refuge at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in southern Gaza tore the leaflets after they were dropped by Israeli planes. "We don't care, do whatever you want. All of us in Gaza are telling you, we are resisting, from east to west," said a Palestinian man as quoted by AFP. Also Read | 'Been through hell': Survivor recounts her horrific experience as Hamas' captive Israel has massed forces near the border with the Gaza strip and there is speculation of a ground assault with an aim to free hostages and tackle Hamas. Israel says that foreign nationals are among the hostages who have been taken to Gaza. The exact whereabouts of those abducted are not known. Two hostages freed Hamas on Tuesday, freed two elderly hostages. Yocheved Lifshitz (85) and Nurit Cooper (79) were among the people abducted by Hamas terrorists on October 7. Lifshitz, seated in a wheelchair, interacted with media after her release. While recounting her ordeal, she said that she 'went through hell' She described how the terrorists "went on a rampage in our kibbutz, kidnapped me, lay me over a motorcycle... and sped off with me through the ploughed fields". She added that the fighters beat her on the way. "...they didn't break my ribs but hurt me very much," she said. She however said that during captivity, "they treated us well" adding that her captors were courteous and a doctor visited every two to three days. Lifshitz's husband is still in captivity. "They had everything that men and women needed including shampoo," she told journalists. "We ate the same food they did -- pitas with cream cheese, melted cheese, cucumbers." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Israel air force drops leaflets in Gaza seeking information on hostages

<p>The United States on Monday (Oct 23) accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. This comes after Iran-backed militias in Iraq claimed responsibility for multiple attacks on US bases in the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for additional similar attacks and respond appropriately, said White House spokesman John Kirby. He also said that the US has sent a “few” military advisors to Israel.</p>

<h2><strong>Attacks on US military bases</strong></h2>

<p>Kirby said there had been an uptick in such attacks over the last week, particularly over the last few days and that the US would not&nbsp;allow its interests in the region to “go unchallenged.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington also raised concerns about an escalation of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. However, the US has rejected calls for a ceasefire saying its ally Israel has a right to self-defence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said Kirby.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “We know Iran’s goal is to maintain some level of deniability here, but we’re not going to allow them to do that.” This comes as there has been an increase in attacks on US forces in the region, particularly since Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this week, at least five rocket and drone attacks targeted three Iraqi military bases where&nbsp;American troops are stationed as part of the international coalition set up to fight the Islamic State group.</p>

<p>On Monday (Oct 23), Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iranian-backed militias, said that its forces used two drones to attack US military bases in Deir el-Zour province and in al-Shaddadi further north.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was after the group also said that it attacked the al-Tanf garrison near the Jordanian and Iraqi borders which is near the desert Rukban camp home to tens of thousands of Syrians.</p>

<p>“We are deeply concerned about the potential for any significant escalation of these attacks in the days ahead,” said the White House spokesperson.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US sends ‘few’ military advisors to Israel</strong></h2>

<p>Kirby said that the US has also sent a “few” military advisors to Israel, adding that these officers have experience in “the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting, and may conduct in the future” and were “over there to share some perspectives.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by the Associated Press said that the Pentagon has sent military advisers to Israel to help with war planning ahead of their potential ground operation in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among those is Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who has previously helped lead special operations forces against the Islamic State and served in Fallujah, Iraq, during some of the most heated urban combat there, a US official told AP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The United States on Monday (Oct 23) accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. This comes after Iran-backed militias in Iraq claimed responsibility for multiple attacks on US bases in the two countries.

The United States on Monday (Oct 23) accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. This comes after Iran-backed militias in Iraq claimed responsibility for multiple attacks on US bases in the two countries. President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for additional similar attacks and respond appropriately, said White House spokesman John Kirby. He also said that the US has sent a “few” military advisors to Israel. Attacks on US military bases Kirby said there had been an uptick in such attacks over the last week, particularly over the last few days and that the US would not allow its interests in the region to “go unchallenged.” Washington also raised concerns about an escalation of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. However, the US has rejected calls for a ceasefire saying its ally Israel has a right to self-defence. “Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said Kirby. He added, “We know Iran’s goal is to maintain some level of deniability here, but we’re not going to allow them to do that.” This comes as there has been an increase in attacks on US forces in the region, particularly since Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7. Earlier this week, at least five rocket and drone attacks targeted three Iraqi military bases where American troops are stationed as part of the international coalition set up to fight the Islamic State group. On Monday (Oct 23), Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iranian-backed militias, said that its forces used two drones to attack US military bases in Deir el-Zour province and in al-Shaddadi further north. This was after the group also said that it attacked the al-Tanf garrison near the Jordanian and Iraqi borders which is near the desert Rukban camp home to tens of thousands of Syrians. “We are deeply concerned about the potential for any significant escalation of these attacks in the days ahead,” said the White House spokesperson. US sends ‘few’ military advisors to Israel Kirby said that the US has also sent a “few” military advisors to Israel, adding that these officers have experience in “the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting, and may conduct in the future” and were “over there to share some perspectives.” A report by the Associated Press said that the Pentagon has sent military advisers to Israel to help with war planning ahead of their potential ground operation in Gaza. Among those is Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who has previously helped lead special operations forces against the Islamic State and served in Fallujah, Iraq, during some of the most heated urban combat there, a US official told AP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

White House says Iran ‘actively facilitating’ attacks on US military bases

<p>United States President Joe Biden, on Monday (Oct 23) said that any discussions about a ceasefire in Gaza can only take place if the Palestinian militant group Hamas releases all hostages taken from Israel after its October 7 attack. Washington has also rejected proposals of a “humanitarian pause” to let aid into the besieged Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Potential ‘hostages-for-ceasefire’ deal?</strong></h2>

<p>During an event at the White House when asked if he would support a “hostages-for-ceasefire” deal, the US president said, “We should have those hostages released and then we can talk.”</p>

<p>Subsequently, he apologised for having to leave the event to promote his economic programme ahead of the US presidential election next year and said he had to go to the White House situation room for “another issue I have to deal with.”</p>

<p>Notably, the US president’s departure came after the Palestinian militant group said they had freed two more female hostages abducted from Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes days after an American mother and daughter duo Judith and Natalie Raanan were freed. Israel, earlier on Monday, increased the number of those abducted to 222.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biden’s call with the pope</strong></h2>

<p>During the event, Biden said that he discussed the ongoing war with Pope Francis on Sunday. “The pope and I are on the same page, he was very very, very interested in what we were doing,” said the US president, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden said he had “laid out to him what the game plan was” regarding US support for Israel, adding that “The pope was across the board supportive.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Vatican earlier said the call, which lasted about 20 minutes, “focused on conflict situations in the world and the need to identify paths to peace.”</p>

<h2><strong>White House rejects calls for ceasefire</strong></h2>

<p>Prior to the US president’s remarks, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters that Washington has rejected calls to pause operations and said that a ceasefire would “give Hamas the ability to rest, to refit and to get ready to continue launching terrorist attacks against Israel.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Monday (Oct 23) that he expected the 27-nation bloc’s leaders to call jointly for a “humanitarian pause” to let aid into Gaza given the dire conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Miller said that the US was separately working to ensure a flow of humanitarian relief into Gaza with its envoy, David Satterfield, on the ground working “intensively” on aid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel had a “legitimate right” to strike against “a terrorist organisation that has embedded its infrastructure inside civilian buildings”, including schools and hospitals, said Miller when asked about Israeli strikes in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that Washington is advising that Israel “should do that in a way that minimises to the maximum extent possible civilian harm".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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United States President Joe Biden, on Monday (Oct 23) said that any discussions about a ceasefire in Gaza can only take place if the Palestinian militant group Hamas releases all hostages taken from Israel after its October 7 attack.

United States President Joe Biden, on Monday (Oct 23) said that any discussions about a ceasefire in Gaza can only take place if the Palestinian militant group Hamas releases all hostages taken from Israel after its October 7 attack. Washington has also rejected proposals of a “humanitarian pause” to let aid into the besieged Gaza. Potential ‘hostages-for-ceasefire’ deal? During an event at the White House when asked if he would support a “hostages-for-ceasefire” deal, the US president said, “We should have those hostages released and then we can talk.” Subsequently, he apologised for having to leave the event to promote his economic programme ahead of the US presidential election next year and said he had to go to the White House situation room for “another issue I have to deal with.” Notably, the US president’s departure came after the Palestinian militant group said they had freed two more female hostages abducted from Israel. This comes days after an American mother and daughter duo Judith and Natalie Raanan were freed. Israel, earlier on Monday, increased the number of those abducted to 222. Biden’s call with the pope During the event, Biden said that he discussed the ongoing war with Pope Francis on Sunday. “The pope and I are on the same page, he was very very, very interested in what we were doing,” said the US president, as quoted by news agency AFP. Biden said he had “laid out to him what the game plan was” regarding US support for Israel, adding that “The pope was across the board supportive.” The Vatican earlier said the call, which lasted about 20 minutes, “focused on conflict situations in the world and the need to identify paths to peace.” White House rejects calls for ceasefire Prior to the US president’s remarks, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters that Washington has rejected calls to pause operations and said that a ceasefire would “give Hamas the ability to rest, to refit and to get ready to continue launching terrorist attacks against Israel.” European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Monday (Oct 23) that he expected the 27-nation bloc’s leaders to call jointly for a “humanitarian pause” to let aid into Gaza given the dire conditions. However, Miller said that the US was separately working to ensure a flow of humanitarian relief into Gaza with its envoy, David Satterfield, on the ground working “intensively” on aid. Israel had a “legitimate right” to strike against “a terrorist organisation that has embedded its infrastructure inside civilian buildings”, including schools and hospitals, said Miller when asked about Israeli strikes in Gaza. He added that Washington is advising that Israel “should do that in a way that minimises to the maximum extent possible civilian harm". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US President Biden says may support Gaza ceasefire only after hostages are freed

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron, on Tuesday (Oct 24), called for the international coalition fighting against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria to be widened in order to combat the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after it launched an unprecedented attack on Israel.</p>

<p>While speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Macron said the countries fighting the Islamic State "should also fight against Hamas."</p>

<p>"We should build a regional and international coalition to battle against terrorist groups that threaten us all," he said while addressing a joint news conference.</p>

<p>He also highlighted that France and Israel shared terrorism as their "common enemy".</p>

<p>"France is ready for the international coalition against Daesh in which we are taking part for operations in Iraq and Syria to also fight against Hamas," he told reporters, referring to Islamic State.</p>

<p>Macron warned against the potential risks of regional violence while also stating that the battle against Hamas "must be without mercy but not without rules".</p>

<p>Though Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not directly comment on Macron's proposal but said the fight was a battle between the "axis of evil" and "the free world".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-russia-and-china-found-common-cause-in-conflict-between-israel-hamas-649439">Explained | How Russia and China found common cause in conflict between Israel, Hamas</a></p>

<p>"This battle is not merely our own ... it's everybody's battle," he said.</p>

<p>An Elysee Palace source said Macron's proposal "draws inspiration from the experience of the Global Coalition against Daesh and seeing what aspects can be replicated against Hamas".</p>

<h2><strong>Freeing hostages&nbsp;a priority,&nbsp;says Macron</strong></h2>

<p>Macron, who met the families of French victims at Tel Aviv airport, said freeing nine French hostages was a priority.</p>

<p>"The first objective we should have today is the release of all hostages, without any distinction, because this is an awful crime to play with the lives of children, adults, old people, civilians and soldiers," Macron said after meeting Israel's President Isaac Herzog.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that the battle must be fought without "enlarging this conflict."</p>

<p>Macron's visit was aimed at preventing an escalation of the war, freeing hostages, guaranteeing Israel's security and working towards a two-state solution, said the presidential advisers. He will push for a humanitarian ceasefire, they added.</p>

<p>His official visit to Jerusalem comes after the European Union foreign ministers struggled to agree on a call for a "humanitarian pause" in the war on Monday (Oct 23).&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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French President Emmanuel Macron, on Tuesday (Oct 24), called for the international coalition fighting against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria to be widened in order to combat the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after it launched an unprecedented attack on Israel.

French President Emmanuel Macron, on Tuesday (Oct 24), called for the international coalition fighting against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria to be widened in order to combat the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after it launched an unprecedented attack on Israel. While speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Macron said the countries fighting the Islamic State "should also fight against Hamas." "We should build a regional and international coalition to battle against terrorist groups that threaten us all," he said while addressing a joint news conference. He also highlighted that France and Israel shared terrorism as their "common enemy". "France is ready for the international coalition against Daesh in which we are taking part for operations in Iraq and Syria to also fight against Hamas," he told reporters, referring to Islamic State. Macron warned against the potential risks of regional violence while also stating that the battle against Hamas "must be without mercy but not without rules". Though Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not directly comment on Macron's proposal but said the fight was a battle between the "axis of evil" and "the free world". Also read: Explained | How Russia and China found common cause in conflict between Israel, Hamas "This battle is not merely our own ... it's everybody's battle," he said. An Elysee Palace source said Macron's proposal "draws inspiration from the experience of the Global Coalition against Daesh and seeing what aspects can be replicated against Hamas". Freeing hostages a priority, says Macron Macron, who met the families of French victims at Tel Aviv airport, said freeing nine French hostages was a priority. "The first objective we should have today is the release of all hostages, without any distinction, because this is an awful crime to play with the lives of children, adults, old people, civilians and soldiers," Macron said after meeting Israel's President Isaac Herzog. He added that the battle must be fought without "enlarging this conflict." Macron's visit was aimed at preventing an escalation of the war, freeing hostages, guaranteeing Israel's security and working towards a two-state solution, said the presidential advisers. He will push for a humanitarian ceasefire, they added. His official visit to Jerusalem comes after the European Union foreign ministers struggled to agree on a call for a "humanitarian pause" in the war on Monday (Oct 23). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French President Emmanuel Macron proposes international coalition against Hamas

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<p>The Pentagon has sent military advisers to Israel to aid in its war planning against Hamas. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Tuesday (Oct 24), the Pentagon is also speeding multiple sophisticated air defence systems to the Middle East days ahead of Israel's anticipated ground assault into the Gaza Strip. Earlier, US officials had advised their Israeli counterparts to consider a delay in any ground assault, saying it would give more time to allow the US to work with its regional partners to release more hostages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report said that one of the officers leading the Pentagon assistance is Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who previously helped lead special operations forces against the Islamic State and served in Fallujah, Iraq.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Lt Gen Glynn will also be advising on how to mitigate civilian casualties in urban warfare, a US official told the news agency. On Monday, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said that Glynn and the other military officers who have been advising Israel "have experience that is appropriate to the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting.”</p>

<p>Also on Monday, US President Joe Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to update him on Washington's support for Israel and ongoing efforts at regional deterrence, including new American military deployments.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ongoing war sparks fears of new Palestinian displacement</strong></h2>

<p>The war between Israel and Hamas, which has been going on for over three weeks, has sparked fears of a new Palestinian displacement. The recent warnings by Israel to Palestinians to evacuate north of the territory ahead of the ground assault have evoked dark memories for Israel's Arab neighbours - Egypt and Jordan.</p>

<p>Speaking to the news agency AFP, Gaza-based rights group Al Mezan said, "That's how the Nakba started." The Nakba is how the Arab world refers to the exodus or forced displacement of 760,000 Palestinians in the war that led to the creation of Israel 75 years ago.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/been-through-hell-survivor-recounts-her-horrific-experience-as-hamas-captive-650680">'Been through hell': Survivor recounts her horrific experience as Hamas' captive</a></strong></p>

<p>There is a fear of history repeating itself since Israel countered Hamas' October 7 offensive.</p>

<p>One million Gazans have already been forced out of their homes, and the Palestinian health ministry said that over 5,000 people have been killed in the war-torn region.</p>

<p>The only possible way out of Gaza that is not controlled by Israel is the Rafah border crossing with Egypt. Till now, Egypt has allowed aid convoys into Gaza through Rafa. However, there have been no mass flights of refugees heading the other way.</p>

<p>Egypt fears that throwing open the gates could facilitate Israeli plans for a forced mass eviction of Palestinians, with most of them homeless, AFP reported.</p>

<p>"Most of the people would rather die in Gaza than be made a refugee again," Al Mezan told the news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Pentagon has sent military advisers to Israel to aid in its war planning against Hamas. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Tuesday (Oct 24), the Pentagon is also speeding multiple sophisticated air defence systems to the Middle East days ahead of Israel's anticipated ground assault into the Gaza Strip.

The Pentagon has sent military advisers to Israel to aid in its war planning against Hamas. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Tuesday (Oct 24), the Pentagon is also speeding multiple sophisticated air defence systems to the Middle East days ahead of Israel's anticipated ground assault into the Gaza Strip. Earlier, US officials had advised their Israeli counterparts to consider a delay in any ground assault, saying it would give more time to allow the US to work with its regional partners to release more hostages. The report said that one of the officers leading the Pentagon assistance is Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who previously helped lead special operations forces against the Islamic State and served in Fallujah, Iraq. Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas war Lt Gen Glynn will also be advising on how to mitigate civilian casualties in urban warfare, a US official told the news agency. On Monday, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said that Glynn and the other military officers who have been advising Israel "have experience that is appropriate to the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting.” Also on Monday, US President Joe Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to update him on Washington's support for Israel and ongoing efforts at regional deterrence, including new American military deployments. Ongoing war sparks fears of new Palestinian displacement The war between Israel and Hamas, which has been going on for over three weeks, has sparked fears of a new Palestinian displacement. The recent warnings by Israel to Palestinians to evacuate north of the territory ahead of the ground assault have evoked dark memories for Israel's Arab neighbours - Egypt and Jordan. Speaking to the news agency AFP, Gaza-based rights group Al Mezan said, "That's how the Nakba started." The Nakba is how the Arab world refers to the exodus or forced displacement of 760,000 Palestinians in the war that led to the creation of Israel 75 years ago. Also read: 'Been through hell': Survivor recounts her horrific experience as Hamas' captive There is a fear of history repeating itself since Israel countered Hamas' October 7 offensive. One million Gazans have already been forced out of their homes, and the Palestinian health ministry said that over 5,000 people have been killed in the war-torn region. The only possible way out of Gaza that is not controlled by Israel is the Rafah border crossing with Egypt. Till now, Egypt has allowed aid convoys into Gaza through Rafa. However, there have been no mass flights of refugees heading the other way. Egypt fears that throwing open the gates could facilitate Israeli plans for a forced mass eviction of Palestinians, with most of them homeless, AFP reported. "Most of the people would rather die in Gaza than be made a refugee again," Al Mezan told the news agency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: Pentagon sends military advisers to aid Israel

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<p>French military intelligence has indicated that the most likely cause of the deadly blast at the al-Ahli hospital in Gaza which allegedly killed hundreds on Tuesday was a Palestinian rocket and not an Israeli airstrike. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, a senior military official said on Friday (Oct 20) that this Palestinian rocket carried an explosive charge of about five kilogrammes and possibly misfired.</p>

<p>The official, who chose to remain anonymous, said that several rockets in Hamas' arsenal carry explosive charges of about that weight including an Iranian-made rocket and another that is Palestinian-made.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-hostages-gaza-strip-palestine-death-toll-egypt-crossing-latest-news-updates-649415">Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas war</a></strong></p>

<p>None of their intelligence pointed to an Israeli strike, the official added. The intelligence assessment was based on classified information, satellite imagery, intelligence shared by other countries, and open-source information, as per the official.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel denies involvement in hospital blast</strong></h2>

<p>Israel has denied involvement in the hospital blast and released a live video, audio, and other evidence it said showed that the blast was caused by a rocket misfired by Islamic Jihad, another Palestinian militant group. Islamic Jihad has denied responsibility for the explosion, the Associated Press report said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gaza officials had blamed an Israeli airstrike for the explosion. The officials said that the hospital housed hundreds of wounded and sick people, and civilians who had sought refuge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The death toll also remains in dispute. Within just over an hour of the blast, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said 500 had died. It then revised that number slightly to 471 on Wednesday, without giving details of the dead. Israel, meanwhile said that the toll was inflated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The French military intelligence official also said on Friday, “We don’t see at all that a rocket that size could have produced 471 dead. It is not possible.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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French military intelligence has indicated that the most likely cause of the deadly blast at the al-Ahli hospital in Gaza which allegedly killed hundreds on Tuesday was a Palestinian rocket and not an Israeli airstrike.

French military intelligence has indicated that the most likely cause of the deadly blast at the al-Ahli hospital in Gaza which allegedly killed hundreds on Tuesday was a Palestinian rocket and not an Israeli airstrike. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, a senior military official said on Friday (Oct 20) that this Palestinian rocket carried an explosive charge of about five kilogrammes and possibly misfired. The official, who chose to remain anonymous, said that several rockets in Hamas' arsenal carry explosive charges of about that weight including an Iranian-made rocket and another that is Palestinian-made. Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas war None of their intelligence pointed to an Israeli strike, the official added. The intelligence assessment was based on classified information, satellite imagery, intelligence shared by other countries, and open-source information, as per the official. Israel denies involvement in hospital blast Israel has denied involvement in the hospital blast and released a live video, audio, and other evidence it said showed that the blast was caused by a rocket misfired by Islamic Jihad, another Palestinian militant group. Islamic Jihad has denied responsibility for the explosion, the Associated Press report said. Gaza officials had blamed an Israeli airstrike for the explosion. The officials said that the hospital housed hundreds of wounded and sick people, and civilians who had sought refuge. The death toll also remains in dispute. Within just over an hour of the blast, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said 500 had died. It then revised that number slightly to 471 on Wednesday, without giving details of the dead. Israel, meanwhile said that the toll was inflated. The French military intelligence official also said on Friday, “We don’t see at all that a rocket that size could have produced 471 dead. It is not possible.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Gaza hospital strike: French intelligence points at Palestinian rocket as cause of blast

<p>As the Israel-Hamas war rages on, the Jewish nation has called up thousands of reservists to lift guns and defend their homeland. So far, about 360,000 reservists have arrived in the country. However, amidst this massive mobilisation, some troops have asked Benjamin Netanyahu this hard-hitting question: Where is your son mister prime minister?</p>

<p>According to media reports, 32-year-old Yair Netanyahu has been in Florida since April and has failed to show up to support his nation, to the irritation of some of the troops.</p>

<p>'Yair is enjoying his life at Miami Beach while I'm on the front lines,' one soldier, a volunteer serving on Israel's northern front, was quoted as saying by The Times.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiVvJzZpo6CAxVpTGwGHeYDAlEQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-warns-hezbollah-against-new-war-front-650168" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-warns-hezbollah-against-new-war-front-650168&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiVvJzZpo6CAxVpTGwGHeYDAlEQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Netanyahu warns Hezbollah against new war front</a></strong></p>

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<p>“It's us who are leaving our work, our families, our kids, to protect our families back home and the country, not the people who are responsible for this situation,” he said.</p>

<p>“Our brothers, our fathers, sons, are all going to the front line, but Yair is still not here. It does not help build trust in the leadership of the country,” he continued.</p>

<p>Another reservist, who had flown back to Israel from the US, leaving his job and family there, also echoed the same concern.</p>

<p>“There is no way I can stay there and abandon my country, my people, at this critical time. Where is the prime minister's son? Why isn't he in Israel? It is the most uniting moment for us as Israelis in our recent history and every single one of us should be here right now, including the prime minister's son,” he said.</p>

<h2><strong>About Yair Netanyahu</strong></h2>

<p>Yair, who pursued a high school education in theatre, fulfilled his mandatory military service in Israel by working within the IDF's spokesman's unit, rather than taking on a combat role.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli citizens are obligated to serve in the military when they reach 18 years of age, with men serving for 32 months and women for 24 months.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-will-make-its-lifes-mistake-if-it-starts-war-with-israel-netanyahu-650048"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Hezbollah will make its life`s mistake if it starts war with Israel: Netanyahu</strong></a></p>

<p>Following their initial service, many individuals can be called back to serve in reserve units until the age of 40 or beyond, especially in the event of a national emergency, during which they may be deployed alongside regular troops in times of conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These reservists also fulfil non-combat duties, meaning that Yair's lack of frontline experience did not automatically exempt him from military service.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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As the Israel-Hamas war rages on, the Jewish nation has called up thousands of reservists to lift guns and defend their homeland. So far, about 360,000 reservists have arrived in the country.

As the Israel-Hamas war rages on, the Jewish nation has called up thousands of reservists to lift guns and defend their homeland. So far, about 360,000 reservists have arrived in the country. However, amidst this massive mobilisation, some troops have asked Benjamin Netanyahu this hard-hitting question: Where is your son mister prime minister? According to media reports, 32-year-old Yair Netanyahu has been in Florida since April and has failed to show up to support his nation, to the irritation of some of the troops. 'Yair is enjoying his life at Miami Beach while I'm on the front lines,' one soldier, a volunteer serving on Israel's northern front, was quoted as saying by The Times. Watch: Netanyahu warns Hezbollah against new war front × “It's us who are leaving our work, our families, our kids, to protect our families back home and the country, not the people who are responsible for this situation,” he said. “Our brothers, our fathers, sons, are all going to the front line, but Yair is still not here. It does not help build trust in the leadership of the country,” he continued. Another reservist, who had flown back to Israel from the US, leaving his job and family there, also echoed the same concern. “There is no way I can stay there and abandon my country, my people, at this critical time. Where is the prime minister's son? Why isn't he in Israel? It is the most uniting moment for us as Israelis in our recent history and every single one of us should be here right now, including the prime minister's son,” he said. About Yair Netanyahu Yair, who pursued a high school education in theatre, fulfilled his mandatory military service in Israel by working within the IDF's spokesman's unit, rather than taking on a combat role. Israeli citizens are obligated to serve in the military when they reach 18 years of age, with men serving for 32 months and women for 24 months. Also read: Hezbollah will make its life`s mistake if it starts war with Israel: Netanyahu Following their initial service, many individuals can be called back to serve in reserve units until the age of 40 or beyond, especially in the event of a national emergency, during which they may be deployed alongside regular troops in times of conflict. These reservists also fulfil non-combat duties, meaning that Yair's lack of frontline experience did not automatically exempt him from military service. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘Where is your son PM?' Israeli reservists ask as Yair Netanyahu stays back in US

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced Monday that Britain was sending an additional £20 million ($24 million) of aid to help civilians in Gaza affected by the war between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The announcement brings the amount pledged to Palestinian territories by Britain since Hamas's attack on Israel earlier this month to £30 million, after £10 million was made available last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas militants stormed into Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, and killed at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians who were shot, mutilated or burnt to death on the first day of the raid, according to Israeli officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Hamas&nbsp;war: Israeli strikes wreak havoc in Gaza</strong></p>

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<p>More than 5,000 Palestinians, mainly civilians, have been killed across the Gaza Strip in relentless Israeli bombardments in retaliation for the attacks by the Palestinian Islamist militant group, according to the latest toll from the Hamas health ministry in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are providing an additional £20 million of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, more than doubling our previous support to the Palestinian people," Sunak told parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before the recent pledges, the UK had committed £27 million to Palestinians this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunak's announcement came while updating lawmakers on the situation in the Middle East following his visit to the region last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said the arrival through the Rafah crossing of some aid trucks into Gaza was "important progress" but added "it is not enough."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We need a constant stream of aid pouring in, bringing the water, food, medicine and fuel that is so desperately needed," the prime minister added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunaks-old-mobile-number-voicemail-recording-leaked-online-650378">UK: PM Rishi Sunak's old mobile number, voicemail recording leaked online</a></strong></p>

<p>Sunak also told MPs that Britain had determined that the explosion at the Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza that killed hundreds of people last Tuesday was probably caused by a missile fired from within Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas and Israel have blamed each other for the blast at the health facility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have taken care to look at all the evidence currently available," Sunak said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On the basis of the deep knowledge and analysis of our intelligence and weapons experts, the British government judges that the explosion was likely caused by a missile, or part of one, that was launched from within Gaza towards Israel," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-two-hezbollah-cells-video-shows-aerial-footage-of-blasts-in-border-areas-of-israel-and-lebanon-650235">Israel strikes two Hezbollah cells: Video shows aerial footage of blasts in border areas of Israel and Lebanon</a></strong></p>

<p>France's DRM military intelligence agency said on Friday that there was no evidence that an Israeli strike had caused the explosion.&nbsp;</p>

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced Monday that Britain was sending an additional £20 million ($24 million) of aid to help civilians in Gaza affected by the war between Israel and Hamas.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced Monday that Britain was sending an additional £20 million ($24 million) of aid to help civilians in Gaza affected by the war between Israel and Hamas. The announcement brings the amount pledged to Palestinian territories by Britain since Hamas's attack on Israel earlier this month to £30 million, after £10 million was made available last week. Hamas militants stormed into Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, and killed at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians who were shot, mutilated or burnt to death on the first day of the raid, according to Israeli officials. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli strikes wreak havoc in Gaza × More than 5,000 Palestinians, mainly civilians, have been killed across the Gaza Strip in relentless Israeli bombardments in retaliation for the attacks by the Palestinian Islamist militant group, according to the latest toll from the Hamas health ministry in Gaza. "We are providing an additional £20 million of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, more than doubling our previous support to the Palestinian people," Sunak told parliament. Before the recent pledges, the UK had committed £27 million to Palestinians this year. Sunak's announcement came while updating lawmakers on the situation in the Middle East following his visit to the region last week. He said the arrival through the Rafah crossing of some aid trucks into Gaza was "important progress" but added "it is not enough." "We need a constant stream of aid pouring in, bringing the water, food, medicine and fuel that is so desperately needed," the prime minister added. Also Read | UK: PM Rishi Sunak's old mobile number, voicemail recording leaked online Sunak also told MPs that Britain had determined that the explosion at the Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza that killed hundreds of people last Tuesday was probably caused by a missile fired from within Gaza. Hamas and Israel have blamed each other for the blast at the health facility. "We have taken care to look at all the evidence currently available," Sunak said. "On the basis of the deep knowledge and analysis of our intelligence and weapons experts, the British government judges that the explosion was likely caused by a missile, or part of one, that was launched from within Gaza towards Israel," he added. Also Read | Israel strikes two Hezbollah cells: Video shows aerial footage of blasts in border areas of Israel and Lebanon France's DRM military intelligence agency said on Friday that there was no evidence that an Israeli strike had caused the explosion. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UK PM Rishi Sunak announces extra £20 million aid for civilians in Gaza

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<p>The Israel-Hamas war has been going on for more than two weeks and Gaza was hit by a fresh set of explosions on Sunday night (Oct 22). As per the Palestinian health ministry, 266 Palestinians, including 117 children, had been killed by Israeli air strikes in the past 24 hours. The total death toll in the war-torn region is more than 4,600. On the Israeli side, 1,400 people have been killed.</p>

<p>More than 200 people have been taken as hostages by Hamas since the militant group launched an offensive against Israel on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-had-intentions-of-using-chemical-weapons-as-part-of-terror-attack-report-649949">Hamas had intentions of using 'chemical weapons' as part of 'terror attack,'&nbsp;says report</a></strong></p>

<p>As Israel continues to drop bombs that have devastated swathes of heavily urbanised Gaza, Palestinians said they received renewed Israeli military warnings to move from Gaza's north to the south to avoid the deadliest theatre of the war.</p>

<h2><strong>Here's a look at the top updates</strong></h2>

<p><strong>&gt;&nbsp;</strong>The Israeli military said on Sunday that one of its tanks accidentally fired and hit an Egyptian post near the border with Gaza. The Egyptian military said that the blast caused "minor injuries" but did not give details. "The IDF (Israeli military) expresses sorrow regarding the incident" near the Kerem Shalom area, an Israeli army statement said, adding the incident was under investigation.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-will-make-its-lifes-mistake-if-it-starts-war-with-israel-netanyahu-650048">Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hezbollah</a></strong> that the Lebanese militant group would make its life's mistake if it started a war with Israel. Prime Minister Netanyahu's remarks come after the Israeli army warned Hezbollah that its escalating attacks on Israel risked dragging Lebanon into a war.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;Hundreds of demonstrators rallied outside the United Nations (UN) in Geneva on Sunday demanding the release of hostages seized by Hamas. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the protest on the square outside the UN's Palais des Nations headquarters in Geneva was organised by the Voice for Freedom coalition, bringing together several Christian Zionist organising committees.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-wont-hesitate-to-act-in-case-of-conflict-escalation-says-austin-650024">Israel-Hamas war: US won't hesitate to act in case of conflict escalation, says Austin</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;The United States warned Iran or its allies against any "escalation" in the wake of the war. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said that Washington would take appropriate action in response to any escalation in the war.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;The UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees said in a post on X that 29 of its staff had been killed in Gaza since the outbreak of the October 7 war. "We are in shock and mourning. It is now confirmed that 29 of our colleagues in Gaza have been killed since October 7," the post said.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;A new convoy of 17 trucks entered Gaza on Sunday, a second such operation in two days, with 20 lorries having arrived on Saturday following negotiations and US pressure.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;The UN has estimated that about 100 trucks per day are required to meet the needs of Gaza's 2.4 million residents given the "catastrophic" humanitarian situation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Israel-Hamas war has been going on for more than two weeks and Gaza was hit by a fresh set of explosions on Sunday night (Oct 22). As per the Palestinian health ministry, 266 Palestinians, including 117 children, had been killed by Israeli air strikes in the past 24 hours.

The Israel-Hamas war has been going on for more than two weeks and Gaza was hit by a fresh set of explosions on Sunday night (Oct 22). As per the Palestinian health ministry, 266 Palestinians, including 117 children, had been killed by Israeli air strikes in the past 24 hours. The total death toll in the war-torn region is more than 4,600. On the Israeli side, 1,400 people have been killed. More than 200 people have been taken as hostages by Hamas since the militant group launched an offensive against Israel on October 7. Also read: Hamas had intentions of using 'chemical weapons' as part of 'terror attack,' says report As Israel continues to drop bombs that have devastated swathes of heavily urbanised Gaza, Palestinians said they received renewed Israeli military warnings to move from Gaza's north to the south to avoid the deadliest theatre of the war. Here's a look at the top updates > The Israeli military said on Sunday that one of its tanks accidentally fired and hit an Egyptian post near the border with Gaza. The Egyptian military said that the blast caused "minor injuries" but did not give details. "The IDF (Israeli military) expresses sorrow regarding the incident" near the Kerem Shalom area, an Israeli army statement said, adding the incident was under investigation. > Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hezbollah that the Lebanese militant group would make its life's mistake if it started a war with Israel. Prime Minister Netanyahu's remarks come after the Israeli army warned Hezbollah that its escalating attacks on Israel risked dragging Lebanon into a war. > Hundreds of demonstrators rallied outside the United Nations (UN) in Geneva on Sunday demanding the release of hostages seized by Hamas. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the protest on the square outside the UN's Palais des Nations headquarters in Geneva was organised by the Voice for Freedom coalition, bringing together several Christian Zionist organising committees. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: US won't hesitate to act in case of conflict escalation, says Austin > The United States warned Iran or its allies against any "escalation" in the wake of the war. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said that Washington would take appropriate action in response to any escalation in the war. > The UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees said in a post on X that 29 of its staff had been killed in Gaza since the outbreak of the October 7 war. "We are in shock and mourning. It is now confirmed that 29 of our colleagues in Gaza have been killed since October 7," the post said. > A new convoy of 17 trucks entered Gaza on Sunday, a second such operation in two days, with 20 lorries having arrived on Saturday following negotiations and US pressure. > The UN has estimated that about 100 trucks per day are required to meet the needs of Gaza's 2.4 million residents given the "catastrophic" humanitarian situation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: Fresh explosions rock Gaza , Netanyahu warns Hezbollah | Top updates

<p>Alain Robert, fondly called the "French Spiderman", urged&nbsp;for peace between Israel and the Palestine by scaling the 220-metre-high Hekla Tower in Paris' business district on Sunday (Oct 22).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today, I am climbing in support of peace. I'm trying not to pick a side, for Palestine or for Israel, but in my opinion, there is one urgent and important thing to do, which is to hear each other out and sign peace accords that are long-lasting, so that Palestine and Israel can both get what they want,” he told Reuters.</p>

<p>Robert said that the Israel-Palestine conflict, spanning for over 70 years, needs to stop, and a common ground must be established.&nbsp;He urged&nbsp;world leaders to sit down and chalk out&nbsp;peace agreements that benefit both countries, stressing that promoting violence and conflict leads to nothing positive.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"They need to decide something once and for all. Otherwise, you know, we are on the verge of - and real this time - a World War Three, because if the Muslim countries start attacking Israel, it will be horrible,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-israel-hamas-war-spreading-al-qaeda-and-is-call-on-followers-to-attack-jewish-and-us-targets-650184">Also read |&nbsp;Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, extremist groups call for global attack</a></p>

<p>Robert emphasises that the focus is not so much on establishing right or wrong, but rather on seeking peaceful resolutions.&nbsp;“There are countries sending billions of dollars for arming people to kill other people. So it just doesn't work this way,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What's happening on ground?</strong></h2>

<p>The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began on October 7 after a surprise attack by the Palestinian group, has led to the death of over 6,100 people.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: UN agency for Palestine refugees, 29 staffers killed</strong></p>

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<p>Concerns about the risk of the Israel-Hamas war catapulting&nbsp;into a wider Middle East conflict rose on Sunday (Oct 22)&nbsp;with the US&nbsp;sending more military help to the region as Israel pounded Gaza overnight and targeted Hamas supporters in Lebanon and Syria.</p>

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Alain Robert, fondly called the "French Spiderman", urged for peace between Israel and the Palestine by scaling the 220-metre-high Hekla Tower in Paris' business district on Sunday (Oct 22).

Alain Robert, fondly called the "French Spiderman", urged for peace between Israel and the Palestine by scaling the 220-metre-high Hekla Tower in Paris' business district on Sunday (Oct 22). "Today, I am climbing in support of peace. I'm trying not to pick a side, for Palestine or for Israel, but in my opinion, there is one urgent and important thing to do, which is to hear each other out and sign peace accords that are long-lasting, so that Palestine and Israel can both get what they want,” he told Reuters. Robert said that the Israel-Palestine conflict, spanning for over 70 years, needs to stop, and a common ground must be established. He urged world leaders to sit down and chalk out peace agreements that benefit both countries, stressing that promoting violence and conflict leads to nothing positive. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alain Robert (@alainrobertofficial) × "They need to decide something once and for all. Otherwise, you know, we are on the verge of - and real this time - a World War Three, because if the Muslim countries start attacking Israel, it will be horrible,” he said. Also read | Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, extremist groups call for global attack Robert emphasises that the focus is not so much on establishing right or wrong, but rather on seeking peaceful resolutions. “There are countries sending billions of dollars for arming people to kill other people. So it just doesn't work this way,” he added. What's happening on ground? The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began on October 7 after a surprise attack by the Palestinian group, has led to the death of over 6,100 people. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: UN agency for Palestine refugees, 29 staffers killed Concerns about the risk of the Israel-Hamas war catapulting into a wider Middle East conflict rose on Sunday (Oct 22) with the US sending more military help to the region as Israel pounded Gaza overnight and targeted Hamas supporters in Lebanon and Syria. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

French 'spiderman' climbs Paris Tower in peace plea amid Israel-Hamas war

<p>A British family has confirmed the death of their daughter, Noiya Sharabi, in the tragic aftermath of the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Be'eri in southern Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Noiya, aged 16, along with her 13-year-old sister Yahel, went missing after the attack that claimed the life of their British-born mother, Lianne.</p>

<h2><strong>'End of the world'</strong></h2>

<p>Talking to BBC, the Sharabi family, residents of the UK, described the teenager as "full of life".</p>

<p>"Noiya was clever, sensitive, fun and full of life - her smile lit up the room like a beacon."</p>

<p>They acknowledged her academic prowess and linguistic abilities and said she "embraced every opportunity to help others, particularly those less fortunate than she, and was a gifted student and linguist."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-wont-hesitate-to-act-in-case-of-conflict-escalation-says-austin-650024">Israel-Hamas war: US won't hesitate to act in case of conflict escalation, says Austin</a></strong></p>

<p>"Most importantly, she was an amazing granddaughter, cousin and niece. We are heartbroken she has gone, but forever grateful she was here."</p>

<p>The two sisters have been missing since the October 7 massacre at the kibbutz. Their mother was confirmed dead earlier while&nbsp;their father was still missing.</p>

<p>Yahel, the younger sister, had already been confirmed dead the previous week. Other relatives of theirs have been kidnapped, reports BBC.</p>

<p>"For us, it is the end of the world. Noiya, Yahel and Lianne will always be in our hearts," said Raz Matalon, the sisters'&nbsp;uncle.</p>

<h2><strong>Extended family&nbsp;in shambles</strong></h2>

<p>Lianne, the girls' mother, had initially come to Israel as a volunteer on a kibbutz when she was 19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Eventually, she made the country her permanent home. The family maintained a connection with relatives in the UK, visiting them at least once a year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-will-make-its-lifes-mistake-if-it-starts-war-with-israel-netanyahu-650048">Hezbollah will make its life's mistake if it starts war with Israel: Netanyahu</a></strong></p>

<p>The Hamas attacks in southern Israel have claimed the lives of at least 10 British citizens. Furthermore, as per BBC, it is believed that one British citizen has been taken hostage and five others are missing.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A British family has confirmed the death of their daughter, Noiya Sharabi, in the tragic aftermath of the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Be'eri in southern Israel. Noiya, aged 16, along with her 13-year-old sister Yahel, went missing after the attack that claimed the life of their British-born mother, Lianne.

A British family has confirmed the death of their daughter, Noiya Sharabi, in the tragic aftermath of the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Be'eri in southern Israel. Noiya, aged 16, along with her 13-year-old sister Yahel, went missing after the attack that claimed the life of their British-born mother, Lianne. 'End of the world' Talking to BBC, the Sharabi family, residents of the UK, described the teenager as "full of life". "Noiya was clever, sensitive, fun and full of life - her smile lit up the room like a beacon." They acknowledged her academic prowess and linguistic abilities and said she "embraced every opportunity to help others, particularly those less fortunate than she, and was a gifted student and linguist." Also read | Israel-Hamas war: US won't hesitate to act in case of conflict escalation, says Austin "Most importantly, she was an amazing granddaughter, cousin and niece. We are heartbroken she has gone, but forever grateful she was here." The two sisters have been missing since the October 7 massacre at the kibbutz. Their mother was confirmed dead earlier while their father was still missing. Yahel, the younger sister, had already been confirmed dead the previous week. Other relatives of theirs have been kidnapped, reports BBC. "For us, it is the end of the world. Noiya, Yahel and Lianne will always be in our hearts," said Raz Matalon, the sisters' uncle. Extended family in shambles Lianne, the girls' mother, had initially come to Israel as a volunteer on a kibbutz when she was 19. Eventually, she made the country her permanent home. The family maintained a connection with relatives in the UK, visiting them at least once a year. Also read | Hezbollah will make its life's mistake if it starts war with Israel: Netanyahu The Hamas attacks in southern Israel have claimed the lives of at least 10 British citizens. Furthermore, as per BBC, it is believed that one British citizen has been taken hostage and five others are missing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

A family destroyed: UK girl Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in Hamas attack along with mom, sister

<p>The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-israel-strikes-gaza-lebanon-overnight-650107">Israel-Hamas war</a> might spread to&nbsp;the West Asian region, or even in the far West, including nations like the United States and the United Kingdom, as al-Qaeda and Islamic State (IS) have asked their followers to strike Israeli, US and Jewish targets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the past two weeks, militant groups linked to al-Qaeda have congratulated the Palestine-based Hamas on its "invasion of Israel".&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Oct 7, Hamas militants launched unprecedented attacks on Israel, killing over 1,400 people and injuring hundreds. They also took around 200 people as hostages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel, in retaliatory action, officially declared war on Hamas, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing to reduce to "rubble" the group's hideouts in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Massive destruction has been reported and hundreds of people have been killed on both sides, with tensions escalating each day.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-family-destroyed-16-year-old-british-teen-noiya-sharabi-confirmed-dead-in-tragic-hamas-attack-650157">A 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Al-Shabaab, which is al-Qaeda's powerful affiliate in Somalia, said in a statement that the conflict in West Asia was not just "the battle of the Islamic factions in the land of Palestine in particular, but rather the battle of the entire Muslim Ummah".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Muslims must gather and offer everything they can to support the mujahideen against the Jews and their hypocritical infidel allies. The strength of this nation lies in the strength of its jihadist fronts," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some other groups which are affiliates of al-Qaeda and based in the Indian subcontinent, Yemen, and Syria also echoed al-Shabaab's calls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Long War Journal, which is a US-based news website that reports on the war on terror, said that al-Qaeda branches in North and West Africa praised the Hamas attacks on Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While hailing the Oct 7 attacks, the group said, "We congratulate your actions and urge you to continue, biting your teeth with patience on the path of jihad. They [the Palestinians] attacked the Jews … wanting to lift the sword of humiliation from their necks."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such calls have raised the prospects of new terrorist violence across the world. It already seems to have spread, with reports of violent protests and violence in different parts of the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-fresh-explosions-rock-gaza-netanyahu-warns-hezbollah-top-updates-650097">Fresh explosions rock Gaza, Netanyahu warns Hezbollah</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Pro-Palestine rallies across the world&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Hamas got instructions on how to make chemical weapons&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Israeli President Isaac Herzog claimed that Hamas fighters who attacked Israel were carrying instructions on how to make chemical weapons. During an interview with Sky News, President Herzog showed documents, complete with diagrams.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the interview, Herzog said: "It's al-Qaeda material. Official al-Qaeda material. We are dealing with ISIS, al-Qaeda and Hamas. This is how shocking the situation is where we're looking at the instructions that are given on how to operate and how to create a kind of non-professional chemical weapon with cyanide."&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, there's no confirmation of whether or not the Hamas military was carrying the elements to make a bomb on them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Israel-Hamas war might spread to the West Asian region, or even in the far West, including nations like the United States and the United Kingdom, as al-Qaeda and Islamic State (IS) have asked their followers to strike Israeli, US and Jewish targets.

The Israel-Hamas war might spread to the West Asian region, or even in the far West, including nations like the United States and the United Kingdom, as al-Qaeda and Islamic State (IS) have asked their followers to strike Israeli, US and Jewish targets. In the past two weeks, militant groups linked to al-Qaeda have congratulated the Palestine-based Hamas on its "invasion of Israel". On Oct 7, Hamas militants launched unprecedented attacks on Israel, killing over 1,400 people and injuring hundreds. They also took around 200 people as hostages. Israel, in retaliatory action, officially declared war on Hamas, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing to reduce to "rubble" the group's hideouts in Gaza. Massive destruction has been reported and hundreds of people have been killed on both sides, with tensions escalating each day. Also read: A 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack Al-Shabaab, which is al-Qaeda's powerful affiliate in Somalia, said in a statement that the conflict in West Asia was not just "the battle of the Islamic factions in the land of Palestine in particular, but rather the battle of the entire Muslim Ummah". "Muslims must gather and offer everything they can to support the mujahideen against the Jews and their hypocritical infidel allies. The strength of this nation lies in the strength of its jihadist fronts," it added. Some other groups which are affiliates of al-Qaeda and based in the Indian subcontinent, Yemen, and Syria also echoed al-Shabaab's calls. The Long War Journal, which is a US-based news website that reports on the war on terror, said that al-Qaeda branches in North and West Africa praised the Hamas attacks on Israel. While hailing the Oct 7 attacks, the group said, "We congratulate your actions and urge you to continue, biting your teeth with patience on the path of jihad. They [the Palestinians] attacked the Jews … wanting to lift the sword of humiliation from their necks." Such calls have raised the prospects of new terrorist violence across the world. It already seems to have spread, with reports of violent protests and violence in different parts of the world. Also read: Fresh explosions rock Gaza, Netanyahu warns Hezbollah Watch: Pro-Palestine rallies across the world × Hamas got instructions on how to make chemical weapons Israeli President Isaac Herzog claimed that Hamas fighters who attacked Israel were carrying instructions on how to make chemical weapons. During an interview with Sky News, President Herzog showed documents, complete with diagrams. During the interview, Herzog said: "It's al-Qaeda material. Official al-Qaeda material. We are dealing with ISIS, al-Qaeda and Hamas. This is how shocking the situation is where we're looking at the instructions that are given on how to operate and how to create a kind of non-professional chemical weapon with cyanide." However, there's no confirmation of whether or not the Hamas military was carrying the elements to make a bomb on them. 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) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, al-Qaeda, Islamic State call for global attacks

<p>A rally held in solidarity with Palestinians became the target of a possible hate crime in the United States' Minneapolis on Sunday (October 22nd).</p>

<p>Witness reports allege that someone drove a car through the crowd. No injuries have been reported as of now.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Gunshot heard</strong></h2>

<p>As people gathered to rally in support of Palestinians, someone allegedly drove a vehicle through the crowds.</p>

<p>The incident, as per the Minneapolis Police Department incident report as cited by CBS News, happened near the junction of Hennepin Avenue and Lyndale Avenue.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-family-destroyed-16-year-old-british-teen-noiya-sharabi-confirmed-dead-in-tragic-hamas-attack-650157">A family destroyed: 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack</a></strong></p>

<p>At approximately 3:23 p.m., the police received several reports of disturbances surrounding a demonstration.</p>

<p>Police report that various witnesses claimed that a vehicle had driven through the gathering, trying to plough them down. One person also reported hearing the sound of a gunshot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, at the time of this report, there were no reported victims, and no one had come forward with injuries related to the demonstration.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who was behind this act?</strong></h2>

<p>Videos and photos shared on social media platform X show a white car zooming through the crowds and narrowly missing protestors.</p>

<p>Have a look here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Photos and videos of the driver who attacked the Palestine rally today. <a href="https://t.co/m3jkVutLWB">pic.twitter.com/m3jkVutLWB</a></p>
— Nick Estes (@nickwestes) <a href="https://twitter.com/nickwestes/status/1716225860607295877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Videos show the driver of the car completely ignoring a barrier of vehicles set up to block off a part of the road for protests.</p>

<p>People tried to push the car back into the traffic, and at one point, opened the door to try and, pull the driver out, reports Mirror.</p>

<p>However, the driver escapes, with some shouting protesters chasing the car.</p>

<h2><strong>Arrest and suspicions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Minneapolis Police Department is currently conducting follow-up investigations into the incident. As it does so, they clarified that no arrests have been made thus far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Minnesota Anti-War Committee, a key organizer of the rally, as per the report, has disclosed plans for a similar protest outside Representative Betty McCullom's office in St. Paul on Wednesday afternoon.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/will-wikipedia-become-diipedia-elon-musk-offers-1-billion-for-nsfw-name-change-650212">Will Wikipedia become 'Di**ipedia'? Elon Musk offers $1 billion for NSFW name change</a></strong></p>

<p>This comes as the ongoing Israel-Hamas war has stoked tensions in the United States. The past few days have seen incidents of hate crime increasing. In one fatal incident, a six-year-old Muslim child was stabbed to death by his landlord, allegedly for his religion.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A rally held in solidarity with Palestinians became the target of a possible hate crime in the United States' Minneapolis on Sunday (October 22nd). Witness reports allege that someone drove a car through the crowd.

A rally held in solidarity with Palestinians became the target of a possible hate crime in the United States' Minneapolis on Sunday (October 22nd). Witness reports allege that someone drove a car through the crowd. No injuries have been reported as of now. Gunshot heard As people gathered to rally in support of Palestinians, someone allegedly drove a vehicle through the crowds. The incident, as per the Minneapolis Police Department incident report as cited by CBS News, happened near the junction of Hennepin Avenue and Lyndale Avenue. Also read | A family destroyed: 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack At approximately 3:23 p.m., the police received several reports of disturbances surrounding a demonstration. Police report that various witnesses claimed that a vehicle had driven through the gathering, trying to plough them down. One person also reported hearing the sound of a gunshot. However, at the time of this report, there were no reported victims, and no one had come forward with injuries related to the demonstration. Who was behind this act? Videos and photos shared on social media platform X show a white car zooming through the crowds and narrowly missing protestors. Have a look here: Photos and videos of the driver who attacked the Palestine rally today. pic.twitter.com/m3jkVutLWB — Nick Estes (@nickwestes) October 22, 2023 × Videos show the driver of the car completely ignoring a barrier of vehicles set up to block off a part of the road for protests. People tried to push the car back into the traffic, and at one point, opened the door to try and, pull the driver out, reports Mirror. However, the driver escapes, with some shouting protesters chasing the car. Arrest and suspicions The Minneapolis Police Department is currently conducting follow-up investigations into the incident. As it does so, they clarified that no arrests have been made thus far. The Minnesota Anti-War Committee, a key organizer of the rally, as per the report, has disclosed plans for a similar protest outside Representative Betty McCullom's office in St. Paul on Wednesday afternoon. Also read | Will Wikipedia become 'Di**ipedia'? Elon Musk offers $1 billion for NSFW name change This comes as the ongoing Israel-Hamas war has stoked tensions in the United States. The past few days have seen incidents of hate crime increasing. In one fatal incident, a six-year-old Muslim child was stabbed to death by his landlord, allegedly for his religion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Video shows car ploughing through pro-Palestine rally in Minneapolis

<p>Israel Defence Forces (IDF) claimed that its aircraft struck two Hezbollah cells in Lebanon early on Monday (Oct 23), stating that they were planning to launch anti-tank missiles and rockets toward Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by news agencies, the IDF said: "Our forces struck Hezbollah terrorist infrastructure in Lebanon, including a military compound and an observation post. 4 Hezbollah terrorist cells operating on the border with Lebanon were struck."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lebanon's state-run news agency NNA reported an Israeli air strike on the southern outskirts of Aitaroun, in southern Lebanon, but didn't provide details.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hezbollah claimed that one of its fighters was killed, a toll contradictory to IDF.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-israel-hamas-war-spreading-al-qaeda-and-is-call-on-followers-to-attack-jewish-and-us-targets-650184">Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, extremist groups call for global attack</a></strong></p>

<p>The Israeli military released footage of the strikes as it said that one was on a cell adjacent to the Israeli town of Mattat, around 13km southwest of Aitaroun.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the other one was further north in the Shebaa Farms area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, it hasn't been established that the two sides were referring to the same set of incidents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, Israel also claimed that it struck more Hezbollah targets, including a compound and an observation post.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-family-destroyed-16-year-old-british-teen-noiya-sharabi-confirmed-dead-in-tragic-hamas-attack-650157">A 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ever since Palestinian group Hamas carried out a shock attack on Israel on Oct 7, which killed at least 1,400 people in Israel, Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel have reportedly been trading fire at the frontier with increasing frequency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel has retaliated with relentless strikes on Hamas in the Gaza Strip that have killed more than 4,650 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry.</p>

<p>While backing Palestine, Hezbollah launched a parallel attack across its northern border.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Netanyahu warns Hezbollah&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Hezbollah will make "the mistake of its life" if it starts a war with Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On a visit to troops in northern Israel near the Lebanon border, he said that the Lebanese Islamist movement "will make the mistake of its life. We will strike it with a force it cannot even imagine, and the significance for it and the state of Lebanon will be devastating".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

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Israel Defence Forces (IDF) claimed that its aircraft struck two Hezbollah cells in Lebanon early on Monday (Oct 23), stating that they were planning to launch anti-tank missiles and rockets toward Israel.

Israel Defence Forces (IDF) claimed that its aircraft struck two Hezbollah cells in Lebanon early on Monday (Oct 23), stating that they were planning to launch anti-tank missiles and rockets toward Israel. As quoted by news agencies, the IDF said: "Our forces struck Hezbollah terrorist infrastructure in Lebanon, including a military compound and an observation post. 4 Hezbollah terrorist cells operating on the border with Lebanon were struck." Lebanon's state-run news agency NNA reported an Israeli air strike on the southern outskirts of Aitaroun, in southern Lebanon, but didn't provide details. Hezbollah claimed that one of its fighters was killed, a toll contradictory to IDF. Also read: Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, extremist groups call for global attack The Israeli military released footage of the strikes as it said that one was on a cell adjacent to the Israeli town of Mattat, around 13km southwest of Aitaroun. Meanwhile, the other one was further north in the Shebaa Farms area. So far, it hasn't been established that the two sides were referring to the same set of incidents. Later, Israel also claimed that it struck more Hezbollah targets, including a compound and an observation post. Also read: A 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack Ever since Palestinian group Hamas carried out a shock attack on Israel on Oct 7, which killed at least 1,400 people in Israel, Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel have reportedly been trading fire at the frontier with increasing frequency. Israel has retaliated with relentless strikes on Hamas in the Gaza Strip that have killed more than 4,650 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry. While backing Palestine, Hezbollah launched a parallel attack across its northern border. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Watch the video here: × Netanyahu warns Hezbollah Hezbollah will make "the mistake of its life" if it starts a war with Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday. On a visit to troops in northern Israel near the Lebanon border, he said that the Lebanese Islamist movement "will make the mistake of its life. We will strike it with a force it cannot even imagine, and the significance for it and the state of Lebanon will be devastating". (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel strikes two Hezbollah cells: Video shows aerial footage of blasts in border areas of Israel and Lebanon

<p>India has extended a compassionate hand to the people of Gaza, sending much-needed humanitarian aid in response to the escalating crisis in the region. The aid, consisting of essential items such as life-saving medicines, surgical supplies, tents, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, sanitary utilities, and water purification tablets, is slated to enter Gaza through Egypt's Rafah Crossing Point.</p>

<p>The Indian Air Force (IAF) played a crucial role in the delivery, dispatching nearly 6.5 tonnes of medical aid and 32 tonnes of disaster relief materials on an IAF C-17 flight. The cargo is currently en route to El-Arish airport in Egypt, where it will be handed over to the Egyptian Red Crescent. From there, it will make its way into Gaza, offering a glimmer of hope to a population grappling with an acute humanitarian crisis.</p>

<p>Adnan Abu Al-Haija, the Palestinian envoy, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Indian government for this timely support. In an exclusive conversation with WION, he said, "I would like to thank the Government of India for this humanitarian step. And I think our people in Gaza need the medicine, need this kind of relief. The situation after 15 days of complete closure of food, water, medicine, oxygen, and petrol."</p>

<p>When questioned about the possibility of additional aid from India, Adnan Abu Al-Haija stressed the importance of political actions accompanying the humanitarian support. He acknowledged India's friendship with both Palestine and Israel, urging a concerted effort to halt the ongoing conflict. He stated, "We are also looking for political attitudes. I know India is a friend of both Palestine and Israel, and this war should be stopped from one side, and humanitarian aid should go to the people of Gaza."</p>

<p>On the start of the international aid via Rafah border, Adnan Abu Al-Haija expressed his concerns about the scale of the crisis, noting, "What they have sent yesterday, 20 trucks, 2.3 million living (in Gaza), this is nothing. So, we need pressure on Israelis, pressure from the international community to break down the siege, and humanitarian aid should go as soon as possible."</p>

<p>He also drew attention to the issue of clean water, stating, "Especially the wells of Gaza, if you make a well, there is no sweet water, because this occupation of Gaza has stolen all water from Gaza to their farms, so there is no sweet water in Gaza; we need that as soon as possible. We need pressure from the international community."</p>

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India has extended a compassionate hand to the people of Gaza, sending much-needed humanitarian aid in response to the escalating crisis in the region. The aid, consisting of essential items such as life-saving medicines, surgical supplies, tents, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, sanitary utilities, and water purification tablets, is slated to enter Gaza through Egypt's Rafah Crossing Point.

India has extended a compassionate hand to the people of Gaza, sending much-needed humanitarian aid in response to the escalating crisis in the region. The aid, consisting of essential items such as life-saving medicines, surgical supplies, tents, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, sanitary utilities, and water purification tablets, is slated to enter Gaza through Egypt's Rafah Crossing Point. The Indian Air Force (IAF) played a crucial role in the delivery, dispatching nearly 6.5 tonnes of medical aid and 32 tonnes of disaster relief materials on an IAF C-17 flight. The cargo is currently en route to El-Arish airport in Egypt, where it will be handed over to the Egyptian Red Crescent. From there, it will make its way into Gaza, offering a glimmer of hope to a population grappling with an acute humanitarian crisis. Adnan Abu Al-Haija, the Palestinian envoy, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Indian government for this timely support. In an exclusive conversation with WION, he said, "I would like to thank the Government of India for this humanitarian step. And I think our people in Gaza need the medicine, need this kind of relief. The situation after 15 days of complete closure of food, water, medicine, oxygen, and petrol." When questioned about the possibility of additional aid from India, Adnan Abu Al-Haija stressed the importance of political actions accompanying the humanitarian support. He acknowledged India's friendship with both Palestine and Israel, urging a concerted effort to halt the ongoing conflict. He stated, "We are also looking for political attitudes. I know India is a friend of both Palestine and Israel, and this war should be stopped from one side, and humanitarian aid should go to the people of Gaza." On the start of the international aid via Rafah border, Adnan Abu Al-Haija expressed his concerns about the scale of the crisis, noting, "What they have sent yesterday, 20 trucks, 2.3 million living (in Gaza), this is nothing. So, we need pressure on Israelis, pressure from the international community to break down the siege, and humanitarian aid should go as soon as possible." He also drew attention to the issue of clean water, stating, "Especially the wells of Gaza, if you make a well, there is no sweet water, because this occupation of Gaza has stolen all water from Gaza to their farms, so there is no sweet water in Gaza; we need that as soon as possible. We need pressure from the international community." You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India sends humanitarian aid to Gaza; Palestine envoy welcomes the step

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<p>US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Sunday (Oct 22) that Washington would take appropriate action in response to any escalation in the Middle East of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, adding the US maintains the right to defend itself. Speaking to ABC News, Defense Secretary Austin said, "If any group or any country is looking to widen this conflict and take advantage of this very unfortunate situation that we see, our advice is: don't."</p>

<p>"We maintain the right to defend ourselves and we won't hesitate to take the appropriate action," Austin added.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-gaza-babies-at-risk-amid-looming-fuel-shortage-649788">Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas war</a></strong></p>

<p>His comments came hours after the Pentagon announced that it was sending air defence systems to the Middle East, in response to recent attacks on American troops. The Pentagon has already placed some 2,000 troops in a heightened state of readiness in case they need to deploy to the region.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel has right to defend itself: US President Biden&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden said on Sunday that Israel has the right to defend itself, adding, "We must make sure they have what they need to protect their people today and always."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollahs-escalating-attacks-on-israel-israeli-army-warns-lebanese-militant-group-649952">Hezbollah dragging Lebanon into a war it will gain nothing from, lose a lot, warns Israeli army</a></strong></p>

<p>"At the same time, Prime Minister Netanyahu and I have discussed how Israel must operate by the laws of war. That means protecting civilians in combat as best as they can," President Biden said in a post on X.</p>

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<p>"We can’t ignore the humanity of innocent Palestinians who only want to live in peace. That’s why I secured an agreement for the first shipment of humanitarian assistance for Palestinian civilians in Gaza. And we cannot give up on a two-state solution."</p>

<h2><strong>Gaza death toll rises to 4,651; Israeli casualties at 1,400</strong></h2>

<p>Since Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on October 7, at least 4,651 people have been killed in Gaza and 14,245 have been injured. On the Israeli side, 1,400 have been killed and nearly 300 people have been injured.</p>

<p>On Saturday, the Israeli military warned Gaza residents that they risk being identified as accomplices "in a terrorist organisation" if they do not move south. The message was delivered in leaflets dropped by air and marked with the Israeli military logo, and in automated phone messages sent to people across the enclave.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Sunday (Oct 22) that Washington would take appropriate action in response to any escalation in the Middle East of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, adding the US maintains the right to defend itself.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Sunday (Oct 22) that Washington would take appropriate action in response to any escalation in the Middle East of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, adding the US maintains the right to defend itself. Speaking to ABC News, Defense Secretary Austin said, "If any group or any country is looking to widen this conflict and take advantage of this very unfortunate situation that we see, our advice is: don't." "We maintain the right to defend ourselves and we won't hesitate to take the appropriate action," Austin added. Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas war His comments came hours after the Pentagon announced that it was sending air defence systems to the Middle East, in response to recent attacks on American troops. The Pentagon has already placed some 2,000 troops in a heightened state of readiness in case they need to deploy to the region. Israel has right to defend itself: US President Biden US President Joe Biden said on Sunday that Israel has the right to defend itself, adding, "We must make sure they have what they need to protect their people today and always." Also read: Hezbollah dragging Lebanon into a war it will gain nothing from, lose a lot, warns Israeli army "At the same time, Prime Minister Netanyahu and I have discussed how Israel must operate by the laws of war. That means protecting civilians in combat as best as they can," President Biden said in a post on X. Israel has the right to defend itself. We must make sure they have what they need to protect their people today and always. At the same time, Prime Minister Netanyahu and I have discussed how Israel must operate by the laws of war. That means protecting civilians in combat as… — President Biden (@POTUS) October 22, 2023 × "We can’t ignore the humanity of innocent Palestinians who only want to live in peace. That’s why I secured an agreement for the first shipment of humanitarian assistance for Palestinian civilians in Gaza. And we cannot give up on a two-state solution." Gaza death toll rises to 4,651; Israeli casualties at 1,400 Since Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on October 7, at least 4,651 people have been killed in Gaza and 14,245 have been injured. On the Israeli side, 1,400 have been killed and nearly 300 people have been injured. On Saturday, the Israeli military warned Gaza residents that they risk being identified as accomplices "in a terrorist organisation" if they do not move south. The message was delivered in leaflets dropped by air and marked with the Israeli military logo, and in automated phone messages sent to people across the enclave. 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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: US won't hesitate to act in case of conflict escalation, says Austin

<p>Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday (Oct 22) said that the ripple effects of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war are not entirely clear right now. His remarks came while he was addressing the closing plenary session on ‘Navigating a World on Fire’ at the Kautilya Economic Conclave - 2023, organised by the Institute of Economic Growth in association with the Ministry of Finance, in New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The ripple impact of what is taking place right now in the Middle East is still not entirely clear... In different regions, there are smaller happenings whose impact is not inconsequential... There is also the less formal version that is very pervasive, terrorism which has long been honed and practised as a tool of statecraft... Any expectation that conflicts and terrorism can be contained in their impact is no longer tenable. A big part of this is clearly economic, but do not underestimate the danger of metastasis when it comes to radicalism and extremism. No danger is too distant anymore," Jaishankar reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-sends-humanitarian-aid-to-gaza-palestine-envoy-welcomes-the-step-649849">India sends humanitarian aid to Gaza; Palestine envoy welcomes the step</a></p>

<p>He also touched upon the ongoing war in Ukraine by pointing out how some events can have far-reaching consequences "beyond the immediate geography."</p>

<p>In a world where there are traditional notions of US-China bipolarity, Dr. Jaishankar asserted that the United States and China are unlikely to create a new bipolar order as there are many "next-run powers" with "significant clout."</p>

<p>EAM Dr S Jaishankar said, "The unipolar world is a distant history. The bipolar world was even more distant in the bipolarity of the US-Soviet Union. And I don't think US China will really end up bipolar. I think there are too many, as I said, too many next-run powers with sufficient clout and autonomous activity and regions of their own dominance and privacy..."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indian-navy-recovered-isros-gaganyaan-crew-module-as-storm-brewed-in-bay-of-bengal-649692">Indian Navy recovered ISRO's Gaganyaan Crew module, as storm brewed in Bay of Bengal</a></p>

<p>"If you look today at what is happening in the Middle East, a lot of it is actually, in a sense, the activities are intrinsic to the Middle East... So the key regional players on regional situations are actually today going to be so dominant compared to the past that they're not going to leave that much space for global players or external players to come in. And I think you can see that happening in Africa as well," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar's address was not limited to discussing global challenges as he also spoke of the progress made over the years and the continuous emergence of new issues.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-overcrowding-living-spaces-no-more-hygiene-products-in-gaza-649911">Israel-Palestine war | Overcrowding living spaces, no more hygiene products in gaza</a></strong></p>

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<p>At the conclave, Jaishankar said, "... There has been a lot of evidence to show... that we are far better off today than we were a decade or 2 or 5 before. Because every set of solutions throws up a new generation of problems. We constantly dissect, analyze, debate, and sometimes even agonize. The really good people in my business also imagine, anticipate, and foresee... We need both an evolutionary approach as well as audacious thinking... The reason for that is the churning on multiple fronts that the world is going through..."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday (Oct 22) said that the ripple effects of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war are not entirely clear right now. His remarks came while he was addressing the closing plenary session on ‘Navigating a World on Fire’ at the Kautilya Economic Conclave - 2023, organised by the Institute of Economic Growth in association with the Ministry of Finance, in New Delhi.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday (Oct 22) said that the ripple effects of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war are not entirely clear right now. His remarks came while he was addressing the closing plenary session on ‘Navigating a World on Fire’ at the Kautilya Economic Conclave - 2023, organised by the Institute of Economic Growth in association with the Ministry of Finance, in New Delhi. "The ripple impact of what is taking place right now in the Middle East is still not entirely clear... In different regions, there are smaller happenings whose impact is not inconsequential... There is also the less formal version that is very pervasive, terrorism which has long been honed and practised as a tool of statecraft... Any expectation that conflicts and terrorism can be contained in their impact is no longer tenable. A big part of this is clearly economic, but do not underestimate the danger of metastasis when it comes to radicalism and extremism. No danger is too distant anymore," Jaishankar reportedly said. Also Read | India sends humanitarian aid to Gaza; Palestine envoy welcomes the step He also touched upon the ongoing war in Ukraine by pointing out how some events can have far-reaching consequences "beyond the immediate geography." In a world where there are traditional notions of US-China bipolarity, Dr. Jaishankar asserted that the United States and China are unlikely to create a new bipolar order as there are many "next-run powers" with "significant clout." EAM Dr S Jaishankar said, "The unipolar world is a distant history. The bipolar world was even more distant in the bipolarity of the US-Soviet Union. And I don't think US China will really end up bipolar. I think there are too many, as I said, too many next-run powers with sufficient clout and autonomous activity and regions of their own dominance and privacy..." Also Read | Indian Navy recovered ISRO's Gaganyaan Crew module, as storm brewed in Bay of Bengal "If you look today at what is happening in the Middle East, a lot of it is actually, in a sense, the activities are intrinsic to the Middle East... So the key regional players on regional situations are actually today going to be so dominant compared to the past that they're not going to leave that much space for global players or external players to come in. And I think you can see that happening in Africa as well," he added. Jaishankar's address was not limited to discussing global challenges as he also spoke of the progress made over the years and the continuous emergence of new issues. Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Overcrowding living spaces, no more hygiene products in gaza × At the conclave, Jaishankar said, "... There has been a lot of evidence to show... that we are far better off today than we were a decade or 2 or 5 before. Because every set of solutions throws up a new generation of problems. We constantly dissect, analyze, debate, and sometimes even agonize. The really good people in my business also imagine, anticipate, and foresee... We need both an evolutionary approach as well as audacious thinking... The reason for that is the churning on multiple fronts that the world is going through..." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Ripple effects' of Israel-Hamas war not entirely clear now: Jaishankar at Kautilya Economic Conclave 2023

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<p>The Israeli army on Sunday (Oct 22) warned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah that its escalating attacks on Israel risked dragging Lebanon into a war. "Hezbollah... is dragging Lebanon into a war that it will gain nothing from, but stands to lose a lot," Israeli army spokesman Jonathan Conricus said, the news agency AFP reported. Conricus said that the militant group was playing a very dangerous game, and escalating the situation.</p>

<p>"Is the Lebanese state really willing to jeopardise what is left of Lebanese prosperity and Lebanese sovereignty for the sake of terrorists in Gaza?," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-gaza-babies-at-risk-amid-looming-fuel-shortage-649788">Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas war</a></strong></p>

<p>The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas (which started on October 7) has spread to Lebanon. Hezbollah is allied with Hamas and has exchanged fire with Israeli forces across its northern border, amid growing concerns that Hezbollah intends to open another front against Israel in support of Hamas in the south.</p>

<h2><strong>'Diplomatic efforts ongoing to stop Israeli attacks on Lebanon'</strong></h2>

<p>Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati said on Sunday that diplomatic efforts were ongoing to "stop Israeli attacks on Lebanon" and prevent the Gaza conflict from spilling into his country.</p>

<p>"Lebanon's friends are with us in continuing to make every effort to return the situation to normal," Prime Minister Mikati said in a statement. However, Lebanon was developing an emergency response plan "as a precaution", he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-fleeing-israel-strikes-lebanon-families-move-into-schools-649750">Israel-Hamas war: Lebanon families move into schools to take shelter from Israeli strikes</a></strong></p>

<p>Local media in Lebanon reported earlier in the day that Israel was bombing various sites along both the border areas.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>29 killed in Lebanon so far</strong></h2>

<p>Since October 7, exchanges of fire across the frontier have killed at least four people in Israel -- three soldiers and one civilian. In southern Lebanon, at least 29 people have been killed, AFP reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nearly 4,000 people in Lebanon have fled flashpoint areas near the Israeli frontier and flocked to the southern city of Tyre. Around half of these people are staying in three public schools that have been converted into makeshift shelters.</p>

<p>Authorities have not implemented an evacuation plan, and people are evacuating by strapping bags to motorcycles or hitching rides with neighbours.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Israeli army on Sunday (Oct 22) warned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah that its escalating attacks on Israel risked dragging Lebanon into a war. "Hezbollah.

The Israeli army on Sunday (Oct 22) warned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah that its escalating attacks on Israel risked dragging Lebanon into a war. "Hezbollah... is dragging Lebanon into a war that it will gain nothing from, but stands to lose a lot," Israeli army spokesman Jonathan Conricus said, the news agency AFP reported. Conricus said that the militant group was playing a very dangerous game, and escalating the situation. "Is the Lebanese state really willing to jeopardise what is left of Lebanese prosperity and Lebanese sovereignty for the sake of terrorists in Gaza?," he added. Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas war The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas (which started on October 7) has spread to Lebanon. Hezbollah is allied with Hamas and has exchanged fire with Israeli forces across its northern border, amid growing concerns that Hezbollah intends to open another front against Israel in support of Hamas in the south. 'Diplomatic efforts ongoing to stop Israeli attacks on Lebanon' Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati said on Sunday that diplomatic efforts were ongoing to "stop Israeli attacks on Lebanon" and prevent the Gaza conflict from spilling into his country. "Lebanon's friends are with us in continuing to make every effort to return the situation to normal," Prime Minister Mikati said in a statement. However, Lebanon was developing an emergency response plan "as a precaution", he added. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Lebanon families move into schools to take shelter from Israeli strikes Local media in Lebanon reported earlier in the day that Israel was bombing various sites along both the border areas. 29 killed in Lebanon so far Since October 7, exchanges of fire across the frontier have killed at least four people in Israel -- three soldiers and one civilian. In southern Lebanon, at least 29 people have been killed, AFP reported. Nearly 4,000 people in Lebanon have fled flashpoint areas near the Israeli frontier and flocked to the southern city of Tyre. Around half of these people are staying in three public schools that have been converted into makeshift shelters. Authorities have not implemented an evacuation plan, and people are evacuating by strapping bags to motorcycles or hitching rides with neighbours. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hezbollah dragging Lebanon into a war it will gain nothing from, lose a lot, warns Israeli army