Thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters in Washington converged around the White House on Saturday, urging President Biden to stop all military aid to Israel and calling for an immediate cease-fire in Israel’s war in Gaza. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hamas war: Pro-Palestinian protesters plan to surround White House

Israelis celebrated Saturday the release of four hostages from Gaza in a military operation, cheering on beaches and gathering outside the hospital where the former captives underwent medical checks.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel army says rescued 4 hostages alive in Gaza

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuiduB9IATpQ1Tgv" />Chief Inspector Arnon Zamora, an officer of Israel's elite&nbsp;Yamam counter-terrorism unit, was martyred&nbsp;in a hostage rescue operation in the central Gaza Strip on Saturday (June 8). On this day, Israeli forces rescued four hostages&nbsp;held by Hamas since October last year in a raid&nbsp;that Palestinian officials said killed more than 200 people.</p>

<p>The hostage rescue operation and an intense accompanying air assault took place in central Gaza's al-Nuseirat. An Israeli military spokesperson&nbsp;said the operation took place in the heart of a residential neighbourhood in Nuseirat where Hamas had kept the&nbsp;hostages&nbsp;in two separate apartment blocks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostage-noa-argamani-rescued-just-in-time-to-see-terminally-ailing-mother-730021">Israeli hostage Noa Argamani rescued just in time to see her terminally ailing mother</a></strong></p>

<p>In the operation, Chief Inspector Zamora was critically wounded and later succumbed to his injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who was Arnon Zamora?</strong></h2>

<p>Arnon Zamora, 36,&nbsp;belonged to Israel's&nbsp;Sde David. He was a part of the Yamam unit of the Israeli police that&nbsp;deals with counter-terrorism operations. This unit has been active throughout the war between Israel and Hamas that started on October 7, 2023.</p>

<p>A report by The Times of Israel on Sunday said that on October 7, Zamora himself had led a battle against Hamas near the border community of Yad Mordechai, killing dozens of terrorists and preventing them from infiltrating the kibbutz.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Rafah offensive: Can Netanyahu be arrested for Gaza war crimes? | WION Decodes</strong></p>

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<p>Following this battle, the 36-year-old&nbsp;&nbsp;was also involved in fighting terrorists at the Nahal Oz base and Kibbutz Be’eri.</p>

<h2><strong>Operation Arnon</strong></h2>

<p>During Saturday's hostage rescue operation, Zamora suffered severe injuries while he was commanding the team&nbsp;that rescued three of the four hostages. The Times of Israel report said that a&nbsp;major gun battle erupted during the extraction, during which Zamora’s vehicle came under fire.</p>

<p>Other forces quickly reached the scene to rescue him and the hostages,&nbsp;bringing them to a makeshift helipad in Gaza. The 36-year-old was evacuated&nbsp;to a hospital in Israel in a critical condition and succumbed to his injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the announcement of his death,&nbsp;the name of the hostage rescue operation (in which he was killed) was changed from “Seeds of Summer” to “Operation Arnon.”</p>

<p>Zamora is survived by his wife and two children. He would be laid to rest later on Sunday&nbsp;in the Mount Herzl military cemetery in Jerusalem, the report added.</p>

<h2><strong>Tributes pour in</strong></h2>

<p>Tributes started pouring in for the martyred Yamam officer.</p>

<p>In a post on X, Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz said, "My deepest condolences on the death of the IDF commander and fighter, the late Commander Arnon Zamora, who fell in the heroic action to rescue the hostages from Hamas captivity in Gaza."</p>

<p>The Israel Defense Forces (IDF)&nbsp;called Arnon a hero of Israel, a lover of the land, and a protector.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Chief Inspector Arnon Zamora, an officer of Israel's elite Yamam counter-terrorism unit, was martyred in a hostage rescue operation in the central Gaza Strip on Saturday (June 8).

Chief Inspector Arnon Zamora, an officer of Israel's elite Yamam counter-terrorism unit, was martyred in a hostage rescue operation in the central Gaza Strip on Saturday (June 8). On this day, Israeli forces rescued four hostages held by Hamas since October last year in a raid that Palestinian officials said killed more than 200 people. The hostage rescue operation and an intense accompanying air assault took place in central Gaza's al-Nuseirat. An Israeli military spokesperson said the operation took place in the heart of a residential neighbourhood in Nuseirat where Hamas had kept the hostages in two separate apartment blocks. Also read | Israeli hostage Noa Argamani rescued just in time to see her terminally ailing mother In the operation, Chief Inspector Zamora was critically wounded and later succumbed to his injuries. Who was Arnon Zamora? Arnon Zamora, 36, belonged to Israel's Sde David. He was a part of the Yamam unit of the Israeli police that deals with counter-terrorism operations. This unit has been active throughout the war between Israel and Hamas that started on October 7, 2023. A report by The Times of Israel on Sunday said that on October 7, Zamora himself had led a battle against Hamas near the border community of Yad Mordechai, killing dozens of terrorists and preventing them from infiltrating the kibbutz. Also watch | Rafah offensive: Can Netanyahu be arrested for Gaza war crimes? | WION Decodes × Following this battle, the 36-year-old was also involved in fighting terrorists at the Nahal Oz base and Kibbutz Be’eri. Operation Arnon During Saturday's hostage rescue operation, Zamora suffered severe injuries while he was commanding the team that rescued three of the four hostages. The Times of Israel report said that a major gun battle erupted during the extraction, during which Zamora’s vehicle came under fire. Other forces quickly reached the scene to rescue him and the hostages, bringing them to a makeshift helipad in Gaza. The 36-year-old was evacuated to a hospital in Israel in a critical condition and succumbed to his injuries. Following the announcement of his death, the name of the hostage rescue operation (in which he was killed) was changed from “Seeds of Summer” to “Operation Arnon.” Zamora is survived by his wife and two children. He would be laid to rest later on Sunday in the Mount Herzl military cemetery in Jerusalem, the report added. Tributes pour in Tributes started pouring in for the martyred Yamam officer. In a post on X, Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz said, "My deepest condolences on the death of the IDF commander and fighter, the late Commander Arnon Zamora, who fell in the heroic action to rescue the hostages from Hamas captivity in Gaza." The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) called Arnon a hero of Israel, a lover of the land, and a protector. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israeli officer Arnon Zamora dies while rescuing hostages. Who was he?

<p>The Israeli military said on Saturday (Jun 8) that its troops had rescued four Israeli hostages alive from Gaza after a "complex daytime operation". The military said that the rescue was made at two separate locations in the area of al-Nuseirat and the hostages were in "good medical condition".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Noa Argamani (25), Almog Meir Jan (21), Andrey Kozlov (27), and Shlomi Ziv (40), were kidnapped by the Hamas terrorist organiation from the Nova music festival on October 7," the military said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added that all four were transferred to the 'Sheba' Tel-HaShomer Medical Center for further medical examinations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will continue to make every effort to bring the hostages home," the military further said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-army-hamas-in-list-of-offenders-committing-violations-against-children-729771">Israeli Army, Hamas in UN list of offenders committing violations against children</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Noa Argamani (25), Almog Meir Jan (21), Andrey Kozlov (27), and Shlomi Ziv (40) were rescued in a special operation by the IDF, ISA and Israel Police from 2 separate locations in the heart of Nuseirat after being kidnapped by Hamas from the Nova music festival.<br />
<br />
They are in good… <a href="https://t.co/PnkjL4GRQz">pic.twitter.com/PnkjL4GRQz</a></p>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1799392501586952256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Israeli ministry claimed that the hostages, three males and one female, were kidnapped by Hamas-led militants from the Nova music festival in southern Israel on October 7 last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The family members rushed to the hospital to meet them. News agency Reuters shared a video that showed Argamani smiling as she reunites&nbsp;with her father.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-bombs-another-school-in-gaza-a-day-after-strike-on-school-killed-37-729791">Israel bombs another school in Gaza, a day after strike on school killed 37</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Another video of Argamani receiving a telephone call from Israeli President Isaac Herzog was distributed by his office.</p>

<p>"I am so happy to be here. Thank you for everything, thank you for this moment," said a smiling Argamani, sitting with her father in a hospital room.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In one video, speaking on the phone with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Argamani said, "I am very moved. I haven't heard Hebrew for so long."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Israel's Gantz expected to resign from cabinet post</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Israel-Hamas war</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas killed around 1,200 people during the October 7 attack and took 251 hostages, 116 of whom now remain in the Palestinian territory, including 41 the army says are dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to the unprecedented attack by Hamas, Israel launched a full-scale war, vowing to eliminate the Palestine-based militant group.</p>

<p>The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said on Saturday that at least 36,801 people have been killed in the territory so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The toll includes at least 70 deaths over the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said, adding that 83,680 people have been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7.&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>


The Israeli military said on Saturday (Jun 8) that its troops had rescued four Israeli hostages alive from Gaza after a "complex daytime operation". The military said that the rescue was made at two separate locations in the area of al-Nuseirat and the hostages were in "good medical condition".

The Israeli military said on Saturday (Jun 8) that its troops had rescued four Israeli hostages alive from Gaza after a "complex daytime operation". The military said that the rescue was made at two separate locations in the area of al-Nuseirat and the hostages were in "good medical condition". "Noa Argamani (25), Almog Meir Jan (21), Andrey Kozlov (27), and Shlomi Ziv (40), were kidnapped by the Hamas terrorist organiation from the Nova music festival on October 7," the military said in a statement. It added that all four were transferred to the 'Sheba' Tel-HaShomer Medical Center for further medical examinations. "We will continue to make every effort to bring the hostages home," the military further said. Also read: Israeli Army, Hamas in UN list of offenders committing violations against children Noa Argamani (25), Almog Meir Jan (21), Andrey Kozlov (27), and Shlomi Ziv (40) were rescued in a special operation by the IDF, ISA and Israel Police from 2 separate locations in the heart of Nuseirat after being kidnapped by Hamas from the Nova music festival. They are in good… pic.twitter.com/PnkjL4GRQz — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) June 8, 2024 × The Israeli ministry claimed that the hostages, three males and one female, were kidnapped by Hamas-led militants from the Nova music festival in southern Israel on October 7 last year. The family members rushed to the hospital to meet them. News agency Reuters shared a video that showed Argamani smiling as she reunites with her father. Also read: Israel bombs another school in Gaza, a day after strike on school killed 37 Another video of Argamani receiving a telephone call from Israeli President Isaac Herzog was distributed by his office. "I am so happy to be here. Thank you for everything, thank you for this moment," said a smiling Argamani, sitting with her father in a hospital room. In one video, speaking on the phone with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Argamani said, "I am very moved. I haven't heard Hebrew for so long." Watch: Israel's Gantz expected to resign from cabinet post × Israel-Hamas war Hamas killed around 1,200 people during the October 7 attack and took 251 hostages, 116 of whom now remain in the Palestinian territory, including 41 the army says are dead. In response to the unprecedented attack by Hamas, Israel launched a full-scale war, vowing to eliminate the Palestine-based militant group. The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said on Saturday that at least 36,801 people have been killed in the territory so far. The toll includes at least 70 deaths over the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said, adding that 83,680 people have been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israeli Army says four hostages rescued in central Gaza in 'good medical condition'

<p>Israeli military on Saturday (June 8) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-army-says-rescued-four-hostages-in-central-gaza-in-good-medical-condition-729916">rescued four hostages</a>, including Noa Argamani, during a complex daytime raid in two separate locations in central Gaza. Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv were also rescued as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that "Israel does not surrender to terrorism".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, Netanyahu said that security forces "have proven that Israel does not surrender to terrorism and acts with creativity and courage that knows no limits to bring home our hostages".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ever since the war started after Hamas militants launched an attack on Israel last year on October 7 and took some hostages, Argamani became the face of all hostages. Her harrowing video of abduction was seen around the world in which she was heard screaming, "Don't kill me!"&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-army-hamas-in-list-of-offenders-committing-violations-against-children-729771">Israeli Army, Hamas in UN list of offenders committing violations against children</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Netanyahu spoke to Argamani on the phone as he welcomed her "home". She told him, "I am very excited. I didn't hear Hebrew for such a long time."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu replied, "Now it's also Hebrew and also at home, and it's important, and we didn’t give up on you for one second. I don't know if you believed in it but we believed in it, and I am happy it came true."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Noa Argamani (25), Almog Meir Jan (21), Andrey Kozlov (27), and Shlomi Ziv (40) were rescued in a special operation by the IDF, ISA and Israel Police from 2 separate locations in the heart of Nuseirat after being kidnapped by Hamas from the Nova music festival.<br />
<br />
They are in good… <a href="https://t.co/PnkjL4GRQz">pic.twitter.com/PnkjL4GRQz</a></p>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1799392501586952256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Profiles of all four hostages who were freed&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Noa Argamani (26)&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A video of Argamani being taken away by Hamas fighters in a motorcycle from the Nova music festival in southern Israel on October 7 last year went viral, angering the world. It showed her boyfriend, Avinatan Or, an engineer, being led away separately on foot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Argamani is a student at Ben-Gurion University in the southern Israeli city of Beersheba. A group of her friends said on social media that she "loves life".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her Chinese-Israeli mother has brain cancer and in a public video spoke of her despair at the possibility she may not see her daughter before she dies.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Almog Meir Jan (22)&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Almog Meir Jan is a resident of Or Yehuda in the Tel Aviv area. News agency Reuters mentioned that he left a voice message just before 8:00 am (local time) on October 7 on the cellphone of his mother Orit Meir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Mum, rockets are (falling) everywhere. I don't know what is going on. Mum, I love you."&nbsp;</p>

<p>His mother told reporters in Athens in November that her life had become "a nightmare" and the last glimpse she had of her son was a Hamas video released shortly after the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She said, "He was lying on the ground. He was terrified, terrified."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-bombs-another-school-in-gaza-a-day-after-strike-on-school-killed-37-729791">Israel bombs another school in Gaza, a day after strike on school killed 37</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Andrey Kozlov (27)</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Andrey Kozlov, a&nbsp;Russian-Israeli, was a security guard at the music festival and he was in touch with his father and friends during the attack. He told them that he had nowhere to hide. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Born in Saint Petersburg, he had recently arrived in Israel and was living in Rishon Lezion, south of Tel Aviv. His family was informed about him three weeks after the abduction.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Shlomi Ziv (41)&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Israeli media reported that Shlomi Ziv was part of the security team at the Supernova music festival and one of his two sisters spoke to him at 7:30 am (local time) on the day of the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He told her there had been shooting and rocket fire and there was a bottleneck of cars trying to leave the site. He had told his sister that he would call back, but it apparently never happened.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ziv lived with his wife in the town of Elkosh near the Lebanese border. He worked as a wholesale distributor but had recently studied to become an interior designer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Biden says 'won't stop working until all the hostages are home'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden on Saturday welcomed the freeing of four hostages, vowing to work until all the captives were freed and a ceasefire agreed.</p>

<p>"We won't stop working until all the hostages are home and a ceasefire is reached. That's essential to happen," Biden said in Paris alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, who also congratulated the families for the release of the hostages.</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>


Israeli military on Saturday (June 8) rescued four hostages, including Noa Argamani, during a complex daytime raid in two separate locations in central Gaza. Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv were also rescued as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that "Israel does not surrender to terrorism".

Israeli military on Saturday (June 8) rescued four hostages, including Noa Argamani, during a complex daytime raid in two separate locations in central Gaza. Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv were also rescued as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that "Israel does not surrender to terrorism". In a statement, Netanyahu said that security forces "have proven that Israel does not surrender to terrorism and acts with creativity and courage that knows no limits to bring home our hostages". Ever since the war started after Hamas militants launched an attack on Israel last year on October 7 and took some hostages, Argamani became the face of all hostages. Her harrowing video of abduction was seen around the world in which she was heard screaming, "Don't kill me!" Also read: Israeli Army, Hamas in UN list of offenders committing violations against children Netanyahu spoke to Argamani on the phone as he welcomed her "home". She told him, "I am very excited. I didn't hear Hebrew for such a long time." Netanyahu replied, "Now it's also Hebrew and also at home, and it's important, and we didn’t give up on you for one second. I don't know if you believed in it but we believed in it, and I am happy it came true." Noa Argamani (25), Almog Meir Jan (21), Andrey Kozlov (27), and Shlomi Ziv (40) were rescued in a special operation by the IDF, ISA and Israel Police from 2 separate locations in the heart of Nuseirat after being kidnapped by Hamas from the Nova music festival. They are in good… pic.twitter.com/PnkjL4GRQz — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) June 8, 2024 × Profiles of all four hostages who were freed Noa Argamani (26) A video of Argamani being taken away by Hamas fighters in a motorcycle from the Nova music festival in southern Israel on October 7 last year went viral, angering the world. It showed her boyfriend, Avinatan Or, an engineer, being led away separately on foot. Argamani is a student at Ben-Gurion University in the southern Israeli city of Beersheba. A group of her friends said on social media that she "loves life". Her Chinese-Israeli mother has brain cancer and in a public video spoke of her despair at the possibility she may not see her daughter before she dies. Almog Meir Jan (22) Almog Meir Jan is a resident of Or Yehuda in the Tel Aviv area. News agency Reuters mentioned that he left a voice message just before 8:00 am (local time) on October 7 on the cellphone of his mother Orit Meir. He said, "Mum, rockets are (falling) everywhere. I don't know what is going on. Mum, I love you." His mother told reporters in Athens in November that her life had become "a nightmare" and the last glimpse she had of her son was a Hamas video released shortly after the attack. She said, "He was lying on the ground. He was terrified, terrified." Also read: Israel bombs another school in Gaza, a day after strike on school killed 37 Andrey Kozlov (27) Andrey Kozlov, a Russian-Israeli, was a security guard at the music festival and he was in touch with his father and friends during the attack. He told them that he had nowhere to hide. Born in Saint Petersburg, he had recently arrived in Israel and was living in Rishon Lezion, south of Tel Aviv. His family was informed about him three weeks after the abduction. Shlomi Ziv (41) Israeli media reported that Shlomi Ziv was part of the security team at the Supernova music festival and one of his two sisters spoke to him at 7:30 am (local time) on the day of the attack. He told her there had been shooting and rocket fire and there was a bottleneck of cars trying to leave the site. He had told his sister that he would call back, but it apparently never happened. Ziv lived with his wife in the town of Elkosh near the Lebanese border. He worked as a wholesale distributor but had recently studied to become an interior designer. Watch this report: × Biden says 'won't stop working until all the hostages are home' US President Joe Biden on Saturday welcomed the freeing of four hostages, vowing to work until all the captives were freed and a ceasefire agreed. "We won't stop working until all the hostages are home and a ceasefire is reached. That's essential to happen," Biden said in Paris alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, who also congratulated the families for the release of the hostages. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Gaza war: Noa Argamani and other rescued hostages' fateful encounter with Hamas on Oct 7

<p>Palestinian militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad, along with Israel, are set to be included on an upcoming list by the United Nations of countries and armed forces deemed as failing to protect children during war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel's UN envoy, Gilad Erdan, confirmed the news while describing the decision as "shameful". He said he received official notification of the verdict on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is due to submit a report to the UN Security Council on June 14 and the global list is included in the report. Reports have mentioned that the annual "Children and Armed Conflict" report is not due to be published until June 18, but Erdan made it public after receiving notification.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-nuclear-sub-to-dock-in-cuba-it-reminds-of-1962-cuban-missile-crisis-729758">Cuban crisis 2.0: Russian nuclear sub to dock in Cuba after USA's Ukraine misadventure</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted on his X social media account that the UN had "added itself to the blacklist of history when it joined those who support the Hamas murderers."</p>

<p>"The IDF is the most moral army in the world; no delusional UN decision will change that," he wrote amid the ongoing Gaza war in which more than 13,000 children are estimated to be dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The war started after Hamas'&nbsp;unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli official figures.</p>

<p>Erdan lashed out at Guterres, saying: "The only one who is blacklisted today is the secretary-general."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Now Hamas will continue even more to use schools and hospitals because this shameful decision of the secretary-general will only give Hamas hope," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-spy-arrested-in-russia-after-macrons-fighter-jet-support-to-ukraine-729606">French 'spy' arrested in Russia following Macron's fighter jets offer to Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Israeli strike on UN school</strong></h2>

<p>This comes a day after Israel bombed a UN school in Gaza, killing more than 40 Palestinians, some them children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel's army claimed it had killed 17 militants in the air strike, raising its previous toll from nine. The strike hit the school operated by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA. The incident happened in the Nuseirat area of central Gaza where thousands of displaced people were sheltering.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Since the targeted strike the (Israeli army) has confirmed the identity of 17 terrorists that were operating from the school," the military said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Netanyahu in US: What next for Israel? | Will Netanyahu meet Biden?</strong></p>

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<p>The UN report highlights human rights violations against children in around 20 conflict zones. Russia's military and armed entities linked to Russia were included on the list last year&nbsp;</p>

<p>The list covers six violations - killing and maiming, sexual violence, abduction, recruitment and use of children, denial of aid access and attacks on schools and hospitals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We can't confirm it, but if it's true, it's a thoroughly justified, albeit long overdue, move by the secretary-general," said Louis Charbonneau from Human Rights Watch.</p>

<p>"It's something we've long called for, along with listing Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</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>


Palestinian militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad, along with Israel, are set to be included on an upcoming list by the United Nations of countries and armed forces deemed as failing to protect children during war.

Palestinian militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad, along with Israel, are set to be included on an upcoming list by the United Nations of countries and armed forces deemed as failing to protect children during war. Israel's UN envoy, Gilad Erdan, confirmed the news while describing the decision as "shameful". He said he received official notification of the verdict on Friday. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is due to submit a report to the UN Security Council on June 14 and the global list is included in the report. Reports have mentioned that the annual "Children and Armed Conflict" report is not due to be published until June 18, but Erdan made it public after receiving notification. Also read: Cuban crisis 2.0: Russian nuclear sub to dock in Cuba after USA's Ukraine misadventure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted on his X social media account that the UN had "added itself to the blacklist of history when it joined those who support the Hamas murderers." "The IDF is the most moral army in the world; no delusional UN decision will change that," he wrote amid the ongoing Gaza war in which more than 13,000 children are estimated to be dead. The war started after Hamas' unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli official figures. Erdan lashed out at Guterres, saying: "The only one who is blacklisted today is the secretary-general." "Now Hamas will continue even more to use schools and hospitals because this shameful decision of the secretary-general will only give Hamas hope," he said. Also read: French 'spy' arrested in Russia following Macron's fighter jets offer to Ukraine Israeli strike on UN school This comes a day after Israel bombed a UN school in Gaza, killing more than 40 Palestinians, some them children. Israel's army claimed it had killed 17 militants in the air strike, raising its previous toll from nine. The strike hit the school operated by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA. The incident happened in the Nuseirat area of central Gaza where thousands of displaced people were sheltering. "Since the targeted strike the (Israeli army) has confirmed the identity of 17 terrorists that were operating from the school," the military said in a statement. Watch: Netanyahu in US: What next for Israel? | Will Netanyahu meet Biden? × The UN report highlights human rights violations against children in around 20 conflict zones. Russia's military and armed entities linked to Russia were included on the list last year The list covers six violations - killing and maiming, sexual violence, abduction, recruitment and use of children, denial of aid access and attacks on schools and hospitals. "We can't confirm it, but if it's true, it's a thoroughly justified, albeit long overdue, move by the secretary-general," said Louis Charbonneau from Human Rights Watch. "It's something we've long called for, along with listing Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups." (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israeli Army, Hamas in UN list of offenders committing violations against children

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will soon address the US Congress. PM Netanyahu, who has an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him, will address US lawmakers in the Congress on July 24. He has received an invitation from Republican and Democratic leaders, reports AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Invitation to Netanyahu</strong></h2>

<p>News of this potential visit comes amidst calls for a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and as Israel faces increasing international diplomatic isolation over the high casualty figures in Gaza.</p>

<p>It also follows a rare and critical call from Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer in March for Israel to hold new elections, criticising the country's management of the Gaza conflict. Progressive Democrats have also voiced strong disapproval of Netanyahu's handling of the military response and have vowed to boycott his speech.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-raise-death-to-arabs-slogan-in-jerusalem-day-flag-march-729310">Israelis raise 'Death to Arabs' slogan in Jerusalem Day Flag March&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>The invitation to Netanyahu was reportedly extended by the four party leaders in the US House and Senate, who expressed solidarity with Israel in its "struggle against terror, especially as Hamas continues to hold American and Israeli citizens captive."</p>

<p>While US media was speculating a visit date of June 13, Netanyahu's office has clarified that this date is not final and conflicts with a Jewish holiday.</p>

<h2><strong>Calls for ceasefire&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Just last week, US President Biden proposed a three-phase plan that seeks to end the conflict, secure the release of all hostages, and reconstruct Gaza without Hamas in control.</p>

<p>However, Netanyahu's office, as per AFP, reiterated that military operations will continue until Israel's "goals" including the destruction of Hamas, "are achieved". Hamas has not responded to this plan.</p>

<p>Efforts for a truce and a hostage-prisoner exchange between the two warring sides are being mediated by US, Qatari, and Egyptian officials. At the same time, Israel is facing increased diplomatic pushback.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-persichitti-world-war-ii-veteran-died-en-route-to-d-day-commemorations-729476">Robert Persichitti, World War II veteran dies en route to D-Day commemorations</a></strong></p>

<p>This includes international court cases accusing it of war crimes and recognition of Palestinian statehood by several European nations. In May, ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan even sought an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.</p>

<p>However, in support of Netanyahu and Israel, recently, on June 4 (Tuesday) the Republican-led US House of Representatives passed legislation that seeks to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). This bill and the subsequent sanctions are in response to the ICC prosecutor's decision to pursue arrest warrants for Israeli officials related to the ongoing war in Gaza.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will soon address the US Congress. PM Netanyahu, who has an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him, will address US lawmakers in the Congress on July 24.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will soon address the US Congress. PM Netanyahu, who has an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him, will address US lawmakers in the Congress on July 24. He has received an invitation from Republican and Democratic leaders, reports AFP. Invitation to Netanyahu News of this potential visit comes amidst calls for a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and as Israel faces increasing international diplomatic isolation over the high casualty figures in Gaza. It also follows a rare and critical call from Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer in March for Israel to hold new elections, criticising the country's management of the Gaza conflict. Progressive Democrats have also voiced strong disapproval of Netanyahu's handling of the military response and have vowed to boycott his speech. Also read | Israelis raise 'Death to Arabs' slogan in Jerusalem Day Flag March The invitation to Netanyahu was reportedly extended by the four party leaders in the US House and Senate, who expressed solidarity with Israel in its "struggle against terror, especially as Hamas continues to hold American and Israeli citizens captive." While US media was speculating a visit date of June 13, Netanyahu's office has clarified that this date is not final and conflicts with a Jewish holiday. Calls for ceasefire Just last week, US President Biden proposed a three-phase plan that seeks to end the conflict, secure the release of all hostages, and reconstruct Gaza without Hamas in control. However, Netanyahu's office, as per AFP, reiterated that military operations will continue until Israel's "goals" including the destruction of Hamas, "are achieved". Hamas has not responded to this plan. Efforts for a truce and a hostage-prisoner exchange between the two warring sides are being mediated by US, Qatari, and Egyptian officials. At the same time, Israel is facing increased diplomatic pushback. Also read | Robert Persichitti, World War II veteran dies en route to D-Day commemorations This includes international court cases accusing it of war crimes and recognition of Palestinian statehood by several European nations. In May, ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan even sought an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. However, in support of Netanyahu and Israel, recently, on June 4 (Tuesday) the Republican-led US House of Representatives passed legislation that seeks to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). This bill and the subsequent sanctions are in response to the ICC prosecutor's decision to pursue arrest warrants for Israeli officials related to the ongoing war in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

US Congress invites Israeli PM Netanyahu to speak amid ICC warrant controversy and Gaza crisis

<p>Israel apparently secretly targeted lawmakers in the United States as well as the American public with pro-Israel content through hundreds of fake social media accounts, the New York Times reported. The main objective was to build support amid Israel's ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Citing unnamed officials and documents, the newspaper&nbsp;reported that the social media campaign was commissioned by Israel's Ministry of Diaspora Affairs, which acts as a connection between Jews from other countries and Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that many posts were generated by the artificial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT.</p>

<p>The posts urged lawmakers like Hakeem Jeffries and Raphael Warnock to continue funding Israel's military.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-says-country-prepared-for-very-intense-operation-on-lebanon-border-729146">Israeli PM Netanyahu says country prepared for ‘very intense operation’ on Lebanon border</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>This comes after last week's action by Meta against some social media accounts linked to a for-profit organisation in Israel. Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, claimed that an Israeli company named Stoic operated a network of hundreds of fake accounts in the US and Canada.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, OpenAI reported that Stoic used its generative AI models in order to produce content for the social media campaigns against Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-inks-3-billion-deal-with-us-for-25-f-35-fighter-jets-729033">Israel inks $3 billion deal with US for 25 F-35 fighter jets</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Hezbollah ready for an 'all-out' war with Israel, says group's deputy chief</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Update on Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Citing three US officials with knowledge of the matter, the news agency Reuters reported that President Joe Biden publicly aired a Gaza ceasefire proposal developed by Israel and the US without seeking agreement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The officials said that the decision to announce unilaterally was deliberate and narrowed the room for Israel or Hamas to back away from the deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We didn't ask permission to announce the proposal," said a senior US official, who was granted anonymity to speak freely about the negotiations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We informed the Israelis we were going to give a speech on the situation in Gaza. We did not go into great detail about what it was," the official further told the news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Israel apparently secretly targeted lawmakers in the United States as well as the American public with pro-Israel content through hundreds of fake social media accounts, the New York Times reported.

Israel apparently secretly targeted lawmakers in the United States as well as the American public with pro-Israel content through hundreds of fake social media accounts, the New York Times reported. The main objective was to build support amid Israel's ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza. Citing unnamed officials and documents, the newspaper reported that the social media campaign was commissioned by Israel's Ministry of Diaspora Affairs, which acts as a connection between Jews from other countries and Israel. The report mentioned that many posts were generated by the artificial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT. The posts urged lawmakers like Hakeem Jeffries and Raphael Warnock to continue funding Israel's military. Also read: Israeli PM Netanyahu says country prepared for ‘very intense operation’ on Lebanon border This comes after last week's action by Meta against some social media accounts linked to a for-profit organisation in Israel. Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, claimed that an Israeli company named Stoic operated a network of hundreds of fake accounts in the US and Canada. Meanwhile, OpenAI reported that Stoic used its generative AI models in order to produce content for the social media campaigns against Hamas. Also read: Israel inks $3 billion deal with US for 25 F-35 fighter jets Watch: Hezbollah ready for an 'all-out' war with Israel, says group's deputy chief × Update on Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal Citing three US officials with knowledge of the matter, the news agency Reuters reported that President Joe Biden publicly aired a Gaza ceasefire proposal developed by Israel and the US without seeking agreement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The officials said that the decision to announce unilaterally was deliberate and narrowed the room for Israel or Hamas to back away from the deal. "We didn't ask permission to announce the proposal," said a senior US official, who was granted anonymity to speak freely about the negotiations. "We informed the Israelis we were going to give a speech on the situation in Gaza. We did not go into great detail about what it was," the official further told the news agency. 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)

Fake social media accounts targeted US with pro-Israel content amid Gaza war: Report

<p>Thousands of ultranationalist Israelis participated in the annual march in Jerusalem’s Old City on Wednesday (June 5) amid chants of “Death to Arabs.”</p>

<p>Jerusalem, the epicentre of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, has remained calm during the Israel-Hamas war. However, the march appeared to have the capacity to further fan&nbsp;tensions and again set off something similar to an 11-day war in Gaza.</p>

<p>The people gathered outside the Damascus Gate, which is a central gathering place for Palestinians living in east Jerusalem, raised anti-Arab and anti-Islamic slogans and waved Israeli flags as the procession started.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A small scuffle broke out between the marchers and the police just before the procession began. Some people also threw plastic bottles at a journalist who was wearing a vest which had the word PRESS imprinted on it.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hits-hamas-compound-at-un-school-in-central-gaza-27-killed-729210">36 killed as Israel hits Gaza UN school it calls 'Hamas compound'</a></p>

<p>Some Israelis were seen shouting “Muhammad is dead!” as they referred to the Islamic prophet. The marchers were also heard chanting “May your village burn".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nearly 18 suspects were arrested by the police on charges of violent offences after clashes broke out during the march.</p>

<p>Speaking to the crowd, ultranationalist National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said that the Jerusalem Day celebration this year is sending the message that “Jerusalem is ours".</p>

<p>“Damascus Gate is ours. The Temple Mount is ours, and, God willing, complete victory is ours,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>What is Jerusalem Day Flag March?</strong></h2>

<p>The Jerusalem Day Flag March is carried out annually and marks Israel’s capture of East Jerusalem which included the Old City as well as its holy sites sacred to Jews, Christians and Muslims during the 1967 Mideast war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel claims all of Jerusalem to be its capital, however, east Jerusalem's annexation is not internationally recognised. The Palestinians have been hoping to make East Jerusalem the capital of a future state and feel that such a march is a provocation.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Hezbollah ready for an 'all-out' war with Israel, says group's deputy chief</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hezbollah-ready-for-an-all-out-war-with-israel-says-groups-deputy-chief-729191/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In the last few years, Palestinians have been forcibly cleared by the police from the parade route and large crowds of youth have chanted “Death to Arabs,” “May your village burn” and&nbsp;other offensive slogans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The march took place at a time when tensions over Gaza were high amid the Israel-Hamas war. The war started with an October 7 attack launched by Hamas into southern Israel in which some 1,200 people were killed by militants and around 250 hostages were abducted.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Thousands of ultranationalist Israelis participated in the annual march in Jerusalem’s Old City on Wednesday (June 5) amid chants of “Death to Arabs.” Jerusalem, the epicentre of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, has remained calm during the Israel-Hamas war.

Thousands of ultranationalist Israelis participated in the annual march in Jerusalem’s Old City on Wednesday (June 5) amid chants of “Death to Arabs.” Jerusalem, the epicentre of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, has remained calm during the Israel-Hamas war. However, the march appeared to have the capacity to further fan tensions and again set off something similar to an 11-day war in Gaza. The people gathered outside the Damascus Gate, which is a central gathering place for Palestinians living in east Jerusalem, raised anti-Arab and anti-Islamic slogans and waved Israeli flags as the procession started. A small scuffle broke out between the marchers and the police just before the procession began. Some people also threw plastic bottles at a journalist who was wearing a vest which had the word PRESS imprinted on it. Also Read: 36 killed as Israel hits Gaza UN school it calls 'Hamas compound' Some Israelis were seen shouting “Muhammad is dead!” as they referred to the Islamic prophet. The marchers were also heard chanting “May your village burn". Nearly 18 suspects were arrested by the police on charges of violent offences after clashes broke out during the march. Speaking to the crowd, ultranationalist National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said that the Jerusalem Day celebration this year is sending the message that “Jerusalem is ours". “Damascus Gate is ours. The Temple Mount is ours, and, God willing, complete victory is ours,” he added. What is Jerusalem Day Flag March? The Jerusalem Day Flag March is carried out annually and marks Israel’s capture of East Jerusalem which included the Old City as well as its holy sites sacred to Jews, Christians and Muslims during the 1967 Mideast war. Israel claims all of Jerusalem to be its capital, however, east Jerusalem's annexation is not internationally recognised. The Palestinians have been hoping to make East Jerusalem the capital of a future state and feel that such a march is a provocation. Watch: Hezbollah ready for an 'all-out' war with Israel, says group's deputy chief In the last few years, Palestinians have been forcibly cleared by the police from the parade route and large crowds of youth have chanted “Death to Arabs,” “May your village burn” and other offensive slogans. The march took place at a time when tensions over Gaza were high amid the Israel-Hamas war. The war started with an October 7 attack launched by Hamas into southern Israel in which some 1,200 people were killed by militants and around 250 hostages were abducted. 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)

Israelis raise 'Death to Arabs' slogan in Jerusalem Day Flag March 

<p>United States President Joe Biden, on Tuesday (Jun 4) said there is “every reason” for people to believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is prolonging the war in Gaza for his own political preservation. The remark has since drawn criticism from the Israeli government which accused the US president of straying from diplomatic norms.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Every reason to believe’</strong></h2>

<p>In an interview with Time magazine, published on Tuesday, when asked whether he thought Netanyahu was prolonging the war for political reasons, Biden said, “I’m not going to comment on that.” He added, “There is every reason for people to draw that conclusion.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;The Biden trap: Can Netanyahu get out of it?</strong></p>

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<p>Notably, the Israeli PM’s popularity plummeted after Hamas launched its October 7 attack which took Israel by surprise and exposed serious flaws in the country’s security. However, a recent poll suggests otherwise and says Netanyahu is starting to regain his popularity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US president’s remarks were made during the interview on May 28 and came before he pitched a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-biden-details-israels-new-three-phase-ceasefire-proposal-amid-gaza-war-what-is-it-about-727842">three-phase ceasefire&nbsp;plan</a> to end the almost eight-month-long war in Gaza, on Friday (May 31).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden also told the magazine that it is “uncertain” whether Israeli forces committed war crimes in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US president said that he had previously warned Israel not to make the same mistake that Washington made after the 9/11 attacks which led to “endless wars",&nbsp;adding that “they’re making that mistake.”</p>

<p>Biden, last week, called on the Israeli leadership to accept the deal and resist pressure from those who are pushing for the war in Gaza to go on “indefinitely".</p>

<p>“They want to occupy Gaza. They want to keep fighting for years and hostages are not a priority for them…I’ve urged leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, despite whatever pressure comes,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israeli government criticises Biden</strong></h2>

<p>When asked about the interview, Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer said it was “outside the diplomatic norms of every right-thinking country” for Biden to make such comments about Netanyahu.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu’s popularity rises</strong></h2>

<p>Opinion polls since the October 7 attack indicate that while Israelis support the war in Gaza, they blame Netanyahu for the security failures, and would vote him out if there was an election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, political analysts have&nbsp;indicated that the Israeli PM would lose if elections were held now.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-deems-bidens-gaza-proposal-partial-but-says-plan-can-kick-off-without-full-agreement-728394">Netanyahu deems Biden’s Gaza proposal ‘partial’ but says plan can kick off without full agreement</a></strong></p>

<p>However, a poll conducted by Israel’s Channel 12, on May 29, suggests that Netanyahu is starting to regain his popularity after struggling politically for more than a year. He even outpolled his main rival Benny Gantz for the first time since the beginning of the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked who was better suited to serve as PM, 36 per cent of the 500 Israeli voters who participated in the survey chose Netanyahu and 30 per cent supported Gantz.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incumbent Israeli PM was also ahead of opposition leader Yair Lapid.</p>

<p>However, the poll, with a 4.4 per cent margin of error, seems to contradict the discontent observed in Israel as the country has been witnessing months of, often violent, protests with people calling on Netanyahu to resign.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States President Joe Biden, on Tuesday (Jun 4) said there is “every reason” for people to believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is prolonging the war in Gaza for his own political preservation.

United States President Joe Biden, on Tuesday (Jun 4) said there is “every reason” for people to believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is prolonging the war in Gaza for his own political preservation. The remark has since drawn criticism from the Israeli government which accused the US president of straying from diplomatic norms. ‘Every reason to believe’ In an interview with Time magazine, published on Tuesday, when asked whether he thought Netanyahu was prolonging the war for political reasons, Biden said, “I’m not going to comment on that.” He added, “There is every reason for people to draw that conclusion.” WATCH | The Biden trap: Can Netanyahu get out of it? Notably, the Israeli PM’s popularity plummeted after Hamas launched its October 7 attack which took Israel by surprise and exposed serious flaws in the country’s security. However, a recent poll suggests otherwise and says Netanyahu is starting to regain his popularity. The US president’s remarks were made during the interview on May 28 and came before he pitched a three-phase ceasefire plan to end the almost eight-month-long war in Gaza, on Friday (May 31). Biden also told the magazine that it is “uncertain” whether Israeli forces committed war crimes in the Palestinian enclave. The US president said that he had previously warned Israel not to make the same mistake that Washington made after the 9/11 attacks which led to “endless wars", adding that “they’re making that mistake.” Biden, last week, called on the Israeli leadership to accept the deal and resist pressure from those who are pushing for the war in Gaza to go on “indefinitely". “They want to occupy Gaza. They want to keep fighting for years and hostages are not a priority for them…I’ve urged leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, despite whatever pressure comes,” he added. Israeli government criticises Biden When asked about the interview, Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer said it was “outside the diplomatic norms of every right-thinking country” for Biden to make such comments about Netanyahu. Netanyahu’s popularity rises Opinion polls since the October 7 attack indicate that while Israelis support the war in Gaza, they blame Netanyahu for the security failures, and would vote him out if there was an election. Similarly, political analysts have indicated that the Israeli PM would lose if elections were held now. Also Read | Netanyahu deems Biden’s Gaza proposal ‘partial’ but says plan can kick off without full agreement However, a poll conducted by Israel’s Channel 12, on May 29, suggests that Netanyahu is starting to regain his popularity after struggling politically for more than a year. He even outpolled his main rival Benny Gantz for the first time since the beginning of the war. When asked who was better suited to serve as PM, 36 per cent of the 500 Israeli voters who participated in the survey chose Netanyahu and 30 per cent supported Gantz. The incumbent Israeli PM was also ahead of opposition leader Yair Lapid. However, the poll, with a 4.4 per cent margin of error, seems to contradict the discontent observed in Israel as the country has been witnessing months of, often violent, protests with people calling on Netanyahu to resign. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden suggests Netanyahu is dragging out Gaza war for political reasons

<p>In a significant move, the Republican-led US House of Representatives has passed a legislation that seeks to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). These bills and the subsequent sanctions are in response to the ICC prosecutor's decision to pursue arrest warrants for Israeli officials related to the ongoing war in Gaza.</p>

<h2><strong>America supports Israel</strong></h2>

<p>Titled the US House's "Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act",&nbsp;Reuters reports that the contentious vote ended with 247 lawmakers in favour and 155 against. This includes support from 42 Democrats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, none of the Republicans voted "nay," although two opted to vote "present" instead of an "aye".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/forest-fires-triggered-by-hezbollah-rockets-spread-through-northern-israel-728774">Forest fires triggered by Hezbollah rockets spread through northern Israel</a></strong></p>

<p>In s statement, as reported by AFP, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said, "Today's vote draws a line in the sand for lawless action by ICC officials."</p>

<p>"The US firmly stands with Israel and refuses to allow international bureaucrats to baselessly issue arrest warrants to Israeli leadership for false crimes," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Will it become a law?</strong></h2>

<p>While the bill is not expected to become law, as per the report, it underscores the strong backing for Israel in Congress amidst international criticism of its Gaza campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, the White House had also condemned the ICC's decision to seek these arrest warrants.</p>

<p>It is unlikely to take up the measure for a vote in the Senate, which has a narrow Democratic majority.</p>

<p>However, if it were to pass, the legislation would impose sanctions on individuals involved in ICC prosecutions of Americans or citizens of US allies who are not members of the ICC, such as Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These sanctions would include barring entry to the US, revoking visas, and restricting them from property transactions in the nation.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-nagasaki-snubs-israels-invite-to-peace-ceremony-calls-for-truce-in-gaza-728672">Japan’s Nagasaki snubs Israel: No invite to peace ceremony, calls for truce in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>ICC's stand</strong></h2>

<p>Recently, ICC prosecutor Karim Khan said that after more than seven months into the conflict in Gaza, there were reasonable grounds to believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and&nbsp;his defence chief "bear criminal responsibility" for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.</p>

<p>Khan also sought to penalise three Hamas leaders for the same.</p>

<p>Netanyahu, however, called the ICC's decision absurd, arguing that it targets all of Israel.</p>

<p>The Gaza conflict escalated dramatically last October, when Israel launched an extensive air and ground offensive in Gaza, aiming to dismantle Hamas. This was retaliation for a brutal Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, which left around 1,200 people dead and over 250 taken hostages, according to Israeli figures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, approximately 120 hostages remain in Gaza.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, according to local health authorities, the Israeli military's retaliatory campaign has resulted in over 36,000 deaths in densely populated Gaza. They also&nbsp;report that thousands of bodies remain buried under rubble.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a significant move, the Republican-led US House of Representatives has passed a legislation that seeks to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC).

In a significant move, the Republican-led US House of Representatives has passed a legislation that seeks to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). These bills and the subsequent sanctions are in response to the ICC prosecutor's decision to pursue arrest warrants for Israeli officials related to the ongoing war in Gaza. America supports Israel Titled the US House's "Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act", Reuters reports that the contentious vote ended with 247 lawmakers in favour and 155 against. This includes support from 42 Democrats. Notably, none of the Republicans voted "nay," although two opted to vote "present" instead of an "aye". Also read | Forest fires triggered by Hezbollah rockets spread through northern Israel In s statement, as reported by AFP, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said, "Today's vote draws a line in the sand for lawless action by ICC officials." "The US firmly stands with Israel and refuses to allow international bureaucrats to baselessly issue arrest warrants to Israeli leadership for false crimes," he added. Will it become a law? While the bill is not expected to become law, as per the report, it underscores the strong backing for Israel in Congress amidst international criticism of its Gaza campaign. Last month, the White House had also condemned the ICC's decision to seek these arrest warrants. It is unlikely to take up the measure for a vote in the Senate, which has a narrow Democratic majority. However, if it were to pass, the legislation would impose sanctions on individuals involved in ICC prosecutions of Americans or citizens of US allies who are not members of the ICC, such as Israel. These sanctions would include barring entry to the US, revoking visas, and restricting them from property transactions in the nation. Also read | Japan’s Nagasaki snubs Israel: No invite to peace ceremony, calls for truce in Gaza ICC's stand Recently, ICC prosecutor Karim Khan said that after more than seven months into the conflict in Gaza, there were reasonable grounds to believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defence chief "bear criminal responsibility" for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Khan also sought to penalise three Hamas leaders for the same. Netanyahu, however, called the ICC's decision absurd, arguing that it targets all of Israel. The Gaza conflict escalated dramatically last October, when Israel launched an extensive air and ground offensive in Gaza, aiming to dismantle Hamas. This was retaliation for a brutal Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, which left around 1,200 people dead and over 250 taken hostages, according to Israeli figures. Currently, approximately 120 hostages remain in Gaza. Meanwhile, according to local health authorities, the Israeli military's retaliatory campaign has resulted in over 36,000 deaths in densely populated Gaza. They also report that thousands of bodies remain buried under rubble. (With inputs from agencies)

Republican-led US House votes to sanction ICC, defends Israel against war crime charges

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<p>Israeli justice officials said on Wednesday (June 5) that the country was phasing out the use of&nbsp;military-run&nbsp;detention&nbsp;camps for Palestinians captured during the Gaza war where rights groups have alleged there has been abuse of inmates. State attorneys told the Supreme Court that inmates held at the&nbsp;Sde Teiman site would be gradually transported&nbsp;to permanent holding facilities, the news agency Reuters reported.</p>

<p>The Sde Teiman site was opened following Hamas' unprecedented attack against Israel in October last year that sparked the Gaza war. Reuters reported that the transfers had started&nbsp;and most prisoners would be relocated within a couple of weeks.</p>

<h2><strong>700 inmates moved to Ofer, more to be transferred soon</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday, state attorney&nbsp;Aner Helman, responding to a petition filed by the Association for Civil Rights in Israel, told the Supreme Court that 700 inmates had already been moved to Ofer, a military stockade in the West Bank.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-experts-warn-famine-possibly-underway-in-northern-gaza-729000">Israel-Hamas war: Experts warn famine possibly underway in northern Gaza</a></strong></p>

<p>Another&nbsp;500 were slated to be transferred in the coming weeks, leaving 200 at Sde Teiman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reuters further reported that Israel was also investigating the deaths of&nbsp;Palestinians captured during the Gaza war as well as the Sde Teiman facility.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel announces new military campaign in central Gaza</strong></h2>

<p>In the latest news from the Gaza war, the Israeli military on Wednesday announced&nbsp;a new military campaign against Hamas in central&nbsp;Gaza. This came as Palestinian health officials said that at least&nbsp;44 Palestinians were killed in Israeli military strikes in central&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;Strip areas since Tuesday.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Rafah offensive: Can Netanyahu be arrested for Gaza war crimes? | WION Decodes</strong></p>

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<p>The Israeli military, meanwhile, said jets were hitting Hamas militant targets in central&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp; while ground forces were operating "in a focused manner with guidance from intelligence" in the area of Al-Bureij- a refugee settlement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli justice officials said on Wednesday (June 5) that the country was phasing out the use of military-run detention camps for Palestinians captured during the Gaza war where rights groups have alleged there has been abuse of inmates.

Israeli justice officials said on Wednesday (June 5) that the country was phasing out the use of military-run detention camps for Palestinians captured during the Gaza war where rights groups have alleged there has been abuse of inmates. State attorneys told the Supreme Court that inmates held at the Sde Teiman site would be gradually transported to permanent holding facilities, the news agency Reuters reported. The Sde Teiman site was opened following Hamas' unprecedented attack against Israel in October last year that sparked the Gaza war. Reuters reported that the transfers had started and most prisoners would be relocated within a couple of weeks. 700 inmates moved to Ofer, more to be transferred soon On Wednesday, state attorney Aner Helman, responding to a petition filed by the Association for Civil Rights in Israel, told the Supreme Court that 700 inmates had already been moved to Ofer, a military stockade in the West Bank. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Experts warn famine possibly underway in northern Gaza Another 500 were slated to be transferred in the coming weeks, leaving 200 at Sde Teiman. Reuters further reported that Israel was also investigating the deaths of Palestinians captured during the Gaza war as well as the Sde Teiman facility. Israel announces new military campaign in central Gaza In the latest news from the Gaza war, the Israeli military on Wednesday announced a new military campaign against Hamas in central Gaza. This came as Palestinian health officials said that at least 44 Palestinians were killed in Israeli military strikes in central Gaza Strip areas since Tuesday. Also watch | Rafah offensive: Can Netanyahu be arrested for Gaza war crimes? | WION Decodes × The Israeli military, meanwhile, said jets were hitting Hamas militant targets in central Gaza while ground forces were operating "in a focused manner with guidance from intelligence" in the area of Al-Bureij- a refugee settlement. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israel phasing out use of military-run detention camps for captured Palestinians

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<p>Experts warned on Tuesday (June 4) that a famine was possibly underway in the northern region of the Gaza Strip but the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas&nbsp;and restrictions on humanitarian access have impeded the data collection to prove it. In a report,&nbsp;the Famine Early Warning Systems Network, or FEWS NET, said that the famine in Gaza was possible, if not likely.</p>

<p>According to the&nbsp;Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, an area is considered to be famine when -20 per cent of households have an extreme lack of food, or are essentially starving; at least 30 per cent&nbsp;of the children suffer from acute malnutrition or wasting, meaning they’re too thin for their height; and two adults or four children per every 10,000 people are dying daily of hunger and its complications.</p>

<h2><strong>The agency's warning</strong></h2>

<p>The FEWS NET is an internationally recognised authority on famine that provides evidence-based and timely early warning information for food insecurity. For a formal declaration of famine, the data must be there.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-suggests-netanyahu-is-dragging-out-gaza-war-for-political-reasons-728818">Biden suggests Netanyahu is dragging out Gaza war for political reasons</a></strong></p>

<p>On Tuesday, the FEWS NET cautioned that&nbsp;data collection would likely be impeded as long as the war goes on. It said that people in Gaza, including children, were&nbsp;dying of hunger-related causes and these conditions would likely&nbsp;persist until at least July if there isn’t a fundamental change in how food aid is distributed.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Rafah offensive: Can Netanyahu be arrested for Gaza war crimes? | WION Decodes</strong></p>

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<p>In its report, the agency further cautioned that efforts to increase aid to Gaza were insufficient and urged Israel to act urgently.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The claim and the denial</strong></h2>

<p>Since the war between Israel and Hamas began in October last year, international agencies including the United Nations (UN) have said not enough food or other humanitarian supplies are entering Gaza.</p>

<p>Israel has repeatedly denied there is famine underway in Gaza and rejected allegations it has used hunger as a weapon in its war against Hamas. Israel has opened many new crossings into&nbsp;Gaza in recent months, saying they helped increase the flow of aid.</p>


Experts warned on Tuesday (June 4) that a famine was possibly underway in the northern region of the Gaza Strip but the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas and restrictions on humanitarian access have impeded the data collection to prove it.

Experts warned on Tuesday (June 4) that a famine was possibly underway in the northern region of the Gaza Strip but the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas and restrictions on humanitarian access have impeded the data collection to prove it. In a report, the Famine Early Warning Systems Network, or FEWS NET, said that the famine in Gaza was possible, if not likely. According to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, an area is considered to be famine when -20 per cent of households have an extreme lack of food, or are essentially starving; at least 30 per cent of the children suffer from acute malnutrition or wasting, meaning they’re too thin for their height; and two adults or four children per every 10,000 people are dying daily of hunger and its complications. The agency's warning The FEWS NET is an internationally recognised authority on famine that provides evidence-based and timely early warning information for food insecurity. For a formal declaration of famine, the data must be there. Also read | Biden suggests Netanyahu is dragging out Gaza war for political reasons On Tuesday, the FEWS NET cautioned that data collection would likely be impeded as long as the war goes on. It said that people in Gaza, including children, were dying of hunger-related causes and these conditions would likely persist until at least July if there isn’t a fundamental change in how food aid is distributed. Also watch | Rafah offensive: Can Netanyahu be arrested for Gaza war crimes? | WION Decodes × In its report, the agency further cautioned that efforts to increase aid to Gaza were insufficient and urged Israel to act urgently. The claim and the denial Since the war between Israel and Hamas began in October last year, international agencies including the United Nations (UN) have said not enough food or other humanitarian supplies are entering Gaza. Israel has repeatedly denied there is famine underway in Gaza and rejected allegations it has used hunger as a weapon in its war against Hamas. Israel has opened many new crossings into Gaza in recent months, saying they helped increase the flow of aid.

Israel-Hamas war: Experts warn famine possibly underway in northern Gaza

<p>The Israeli military, on Monday (June 3) confirmed the deaths of four Israeli hostages who were abducted by Hamas on October 7.</p>

<h2><strong>Hostages Identified</strong></h2>

<p>The four hostages have been identified as 80-year-old Chaim Peri, 80-year-old Yoram Metzger, 84-year-old Amiram Cooper, and 51-year-old Nadav Popplewell.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the Israeli military, the four men were held by the Palestinian Islamist group, which now has their bodies.</p>

<p>Videos posted by Hamas last month had shown all four men alive. However, Hamas as per Reuters later claimed that Popplewell died from wounds inflicted by an Israeli air strike when posting his video last month.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-shuts-doors-on-israelis-israeli-embassy-suggests-beachy-alternatives-in-india-728287">Israeli embassy endorses ‘amazing’ Indian beaches after Maldives ban on entry over Gaza war</a></strong></p>

<p>Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, an Israeli military spokesperson, stated that new intelligence led to the confirmation of their deaths. He said that the military believes the four men were killed together in Khan Yunis, a southern city in Gaza, several months ago while Israeli forces were active in the area.</p>

<p>"We assess that the four of them were killed while together in the area of Khan Yunis during our operation there against Hamas."</p>

<p>Hagari assured that the circumstances of their deaths are being thoroughly investigated, with findings to be shared transparently with the families first&nbsp;and then with the public.</p>

<p>Chaim Peri, who was 80, was at his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz during the Hamas attack. In a conversation with Reuters, his son recounted that Peri tried to protect his wife by hiding her behind a sofa and eventually surrendered to the gunmen to save her.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-deems-bidens-gaza-proposal-partial-but-says-plan-can-kick-off-without-full-agreement-728394">Netanyahu deems Biden’s Gaza proposal ‘partial’ but says plan can kick off without full agreement</a></strong></p>

<p>Amiram Cooper and Yoram Metzger, also from Nir Oz, were captured along with their wives, who were later released during a brief truce in November.</p>

<p>Nadav Popplewell was taken along with his mother from her home in Kibbutz Nirim. His brother was killed during the attack, and his mother was freed in the November truce.</p>

<h2><strong>Greatly saddened</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to the Israeli military update on the Oct 7 hostages, and the death of Israeli-British Popplewell, British foreign minister David Cameron said he was "greatly saddened to hear about the death".</p>

<p>"We reiterate our demand for Hamas to send all hostages home," he added.</p>

<p>Of the more than 250 individuals kidnapped on October 7, around 120 remain in Gaza, with many others having been declared dead by Israeli authorities.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Israeli military, on Monday (June 3) confirmed the deaths of four Israeli hostages who were abducted by Hamas on October 7. Hostages Identified The four hostages have been identified as 80-year-old Chaim Peri, 80-year-old Yoram Metzger, 84-year-old Amiram Cooper, and 51-year-old Nadav Popplewell.

The Israeli military, on Monday (June 3) confirmed the deaths of four Israeli hostages who were abducted by Hamas on October 7. Hostages Identified The four hostages have been identified as 80-year-old Chaim Peri, 80-year-old Yoram Metzger, 84-year-old Amiram Cooper, and 51-year-old Nadav Popplewell. As per the Israeli military, the four men were held by the Palestinian Islamist group, which now has their bodies. Videos posted by Hamas last month had shown all four men alive. However, Hamas as per Reuters later claimed that Popplewell died from wounds inflicted by an Israeli air strike when posting his video last month. Also read | Israeli embassy endorses ‘amazing’ Indian beaches after Maldives ban on entry over Gaza war Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, an Israeli military spokesperson, stated that new intelligence led to the confirmation of their deaths. He said that the military believes the four men were killed together in Khan Yunis, a southern city in Gaza, several months ago while Israeli forces were active in the area. "We assess that the four of them were killed while together in the area of Khan Yunis during our operation there against Hamas." Hagari assured that the circumstances of their deaths are being thoroughly investigated, with findings to be shared transparently with the families first and then with the public. Chaim Peri, who was 80, was at his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz during the Hamas attack. In a conversation with Reuters, his son recounted that Peri tried to protect his wife by hiding her behind a sofa and eventually surrendered to the gunmen to save her. Also read | Netanyahu deems Biden’s Gaza proposal ‘partial’ but says plan can kick off without full agreement Amiram Cooper and Yoram Metzger, also from Nir Oz, were captured along with their wives, who were later released during a brief truce in November. Nadav Popplewell was taken along with his mother from her home in Kibbutz Nirim. His brother was killed during the attack, and his mother was freed in the November truce. Greatly saddened Reacting to the Israeli military update on the Oct 7 hostages, and the death of Israeli-British Popplewell, British foreign minister David Cameron said he was "greatly saddened to hear about the death". "We reiterate our demand for Hamas to send all hostages home," he added. Of the more than 250 individuals kidnapped on October 7, around 120 remain in Gaza, with many others having been declared dead by Israeli authorities. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel confirms death of four hostages held by Hamas since October

<p>Thousands of anti-government protesters took to the streets in the Israeli city of Tel Aviv, on Saturday (Jun 1) and called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to work on the deal to release hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after the October 7 attack.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>At least 120,000 rally in Tel Aviv</strong></h2>

<p>While Israel has faced months of near-weekly protests since Netanyahu returned to power due to his government’s various policies, including the proposed judicial overhaul and more recently the war in Gaza, Saturday’s rally was said to be one of the largest since Hamas’ October 7 attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israelis have also called on Netanyahu to resign and for the country to hold early elections.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel urges Netanyahu to 'stand up &amp; publicly accept' truce deal</strong></p>

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<p>Organisers of the protest, as per Times of Israel said some 120,000 demonstrators attended the Tel Aviv rally. Similar rallies reportedly took place in several places across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rally was also marked by clashes, speeches and massive banners one of which according to images from the protest read “Biden save them from Netanyahu,” seemingly speaking about the hostages, which Hamas took back to Gaza after attacking Israel on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Police and protesters clash</strong></h2>

<p>Protesters, during the rally on Saturday, clashed with the police, according to Israeli media reports and videos on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by Haaretz said two protesters were arrested and that the police used a sound cannon to disperse the thousands of demonstrators gathered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli news site, Ynet reported that the police had also brought a water cannon to the rally but did not use it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At least 14 police officers including Chief Superintendent Avi Ofer and the deputy commander of the Tel Aviv Police Department, were injured during clashes with the protesters, reported Ynet.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Thank you, President Biden’</strong></h2>

<p>Protesters thanked United States President Joe Biden for his speech which called on the Israeli government and Hamas to accept the recent ceasefire proposal by Israel and end the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden, on Friday (May 31) unveiled a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-biden-details-new-three-phase-ceasefire-proposal-by-israel-amid-gaza-war-what-is-it-about-727842">three-phase Israeli proposal</a> to Hamas seeking to end the almost eight-month-long war. If accepted, the deal in question would lead to a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave and the release of hostages held by the militant group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“A step away from a victory that will never come, we’re surrounded by enemies, the whole world’s against us,” said the former head of the finance ministry’s budget department, Shaul Meridor at the rally, referring to Netanyahu’s repeated claims that Israel is close to victory. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Last night, we received a reminder of what a real leader looks like, who cares for Israel’s future and not his own. Thank you, President Biden.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hostages and Missing Families Forum, on Saturday night also called for mass protests warning that there would be “very strong attempts to torpedo the deal”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israeli ministers threaten to quit</strong></h2>

<p>Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, two members of the Israeli PM’s right-wing coalition, have threatened to quit if the latest Gaza ceasefire deal is accepted, potentially leading to the collapse of the governing coalition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the leader of the opposition Yair Lapid pledged to back the government if the Israeli PM accepted the plan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Smotrich, in a post on social media, said he told Netanyahu he would “not be part of a government that agrees to the proposed outline and ends the war without destroying Hamas and bringing back all the hostages”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, Ben-Gvir called the deal “reckless” and one that “constitutes a victory for terrorism and a security threat to the State of Israel”. He also vowed to “dissolve the government” rather than agree to the proposal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Biden during his speech had warned that some people in the governing coalition have “made it clear” that they want to “occupy Gaza.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Well, I’ve urged leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, despite whatever pressure comes.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Thousands of anti-government protesters took to the streets in the Israeli city of Tel Aviv, on Saturday (Jun 1) and called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to work on the deal to release hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after the October 7 attack.

Thousands of anti-government protesters took to the streets in the Israeli city of Tel Aviv, on Saturday (Jun 1) and called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to work on the deal to release hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after the October 7 attack. At least 120,000 rally in Tel Aviv While Israel has faced months of near-weekly protests since Netanyahu returned to power due to his government’s various policies, including the proposed judicial overhaul and more recently the war in Gaza, Saturday’s rally was said to be one of the largest since Hamas’ October 7 attack. Israelis have also called on Netanyahu to resign and for the country to hold early elections. WATCH | Israel urges Netanyahu to 'stand up & publicly accept' truce deal Organisers of the protest, as per Times of Israel said some 120,000 demonstrators attended the Tel Aviv rally. Similar rallies reportedly took place in several places across the country. The rally was also marked by clashes, speeches and massive banners one of which according to images from the protest read “Biden save them from Netanyahu,” seemingly speaking about the hostages, which Hamas took back to Gaza after attacking Israel on October 7. Police and protesters clash Protesters, during the rally on Saturday, clashed with the police, according to Israeli media reports and videos on social media. A report by Haaretz said two protesters were arrested and that the police used a sound cannon to disperse the thousands of demonstrators gathered. Israeli news site, Ynet reported that the police had also brought a water cannon to the rally but did not use it. At least 14 police officers including Chief Superintendent Avi Ofer and the deputy commander of the Tel Aviv Police Department, were injured during clashes with the protesters, reported Ynet. ‘Thank you, President Biden’ Protesters thanked United States President Joe Biden for his speech which called on the Israeli government and Hamas to accept the recent ceasefire proposal by Israel and end the ongoing war in Gaza. Biden, on Friday (May 31) unveiled a three-phase Israeli proposal to Hamas seeking to end the almost eight-month-long war. If accepted, the deal in question would lead to a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave and the release of hostages held by the militant group. “A step away from a victory that will never come, we’re surrounded by enemies, the whole world’s against us,” said the former head of the finance ministry’s budget department, Shaul Meridor at the rally, referring to Netanyahu’s repeated claims that Israel is close to victory. He added, “Last night, we received a reminder of what a real leader looks like, who cares for Israel’s future and not his own. Thank you, President Biden.” Hostages and Missing Families Forum, on Saturday night also called for mass protests warning that there would be “very strong attempts to torpedo the deal”. Israeli ministers threaten to quit Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, two members of the Israeli PM’s right-wing coalition, have threatened to quit if the latest Gaza ceasefire deal is accepted, potentially leading to the collapse of the governing coalition. Meanwhile, the leader of the opposition Yair Lapid pledged to back the government if the Israeli PM accepted the plan. Smotrich, in a post on social media, said he told Netanyahu he would “not be part of a government that agrees to the proposed outline and ends the war without destroying Hamas and bringing back all the hostages”. Similarly, Ben-Gvir called the deal “reckless” and one that “constitutes a victory for terrorism and a security threat to the State of Israel”. He also vowed to “dissolve the government” rather than agree to the proposal. Notably, Biden during his speech had warned that some people in the governing coalition have “made it clear” that they want to “occupy Gaza.” He added, “Well, I’ve urged leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, despite whatever pressure comes.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘Biden save them from Netanyahu’: 120,000 rally in Tel Aviv against Israeli govt, demand hostage deal

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<p>Mediators of the Gaza war on Saturday (June 1) urged Israel and Hamas to finalise the peace plan shared by United States (US) President Joe Biden. Since the war began in October last year, the US, Egypt, and Qatar&nbsp;have for months&nbsp;&nbsp;been seeking&nbsp;to mediate an end to the war, but a deal has proven elusive. US President Biden said on Friday that the peace plan would bring&nbsp;immediate relief to people in Gaza and the hostages and their families.</p>

<p>Israel had proposed a deal involving an initial six-week ceasefire with a partial Israeli military withdrawal and the release of some hostages while "a permanent end to hostilities" is negotiated through mediators, Biden added.</p>

<p>Hamas said on Friday it was ready to engage "positively and in a constructive manner." However, a member of the Palestinian militant group told Qatari media that Hamas had not yet received details of the proposal, according to news agency Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-biden-details-israels-new-three-phase-ceasefire-proposal-amid-gaza-war-what-is-it-about-727842">Explained: Biden details Israel’s new three-phase ceasefire proposal amid Gaza war. What is it about?</a></strong></p>

<p>"No agreement can be reached before the demand for the withdrawal of the occupation army and a ceasefire is met," the member added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Deal will be characterised by Israel and Hamas</strong></h2>

<p>Israel has been willing only to suspend the war in exchange for hostages, saying it would resume the campaign to eliminate the Hamas threat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A senior Biden administration official asked about a potential rift in the US&nbsp;and Israeli viewpoints on the future of Hamas and suggested this may be open to interpretation and would come down to future Egyptian and Qatari sway over the movement.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Rafah offensive: Can Netanyahu be arrested for Gaza war crimes? | WION Decodes</strong></p>

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<p>"I have no doubt that the deal will be characterised by Israel and be characterised by Hamas," the official said, according to reports.</p>

<h2><strong>Israeli war cabinet member threatens to resign</strong></h2>

<p>On Saturday, Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz threatened to resign next week if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not form&nbsp;a&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;day-after plan with him. Gantz&nbsp;voiced appreciation for Biden and called for the Israeli war cabinet to be convened "to decide the next steps."</p>

<p>Netanyahu has faced increasing domestic pressure over the fate of hostages and from a resurgent anti-government movement, with Israelis rallying again on Saturday near military headquarters in Tel Aviv.</p>


Mediators of the Gaza war on Saturday (June 1) urged Israel and Hamas to finalise the peace plan shared by United States (US) President Joe Biden. Since the war began in October last year, the US, Egypt, and Qatar have for months been seeking to mediate an end to the war, but a deal has proven elusive.

Mediators of the Gaza war on Saturday (June 1) urged Israel and Hamas to finalise the peace plan shared by United States (US) President Joe Biden. Since the war began in October last year, the US, Egypt, and Qatar have for months been seeking to mediate an end to the war, but a deal has proven elusive. US President Biden said on Friday that the peace plan would bring immediate relief to people in Gaza and the hostages and their families. Israel had proposed a deal involving an initial six-week ceasefire with a partial Israeli military withdrawal and the release of some hostages while "a permanent end to hostilities" is negotiated through mediators, Biden added. Hamas said on Friday it was ready to engage "positively and in a constructive manner." However, a member of the Palestinian militant group told Qatari media that Hamas had not yet received details of the proposal, according to news agency Reuters. Also read | Explained: Biden details Israel’s new three-phase ceasefire proposal amid Gaza war. What is it about? "No agreement can be reached before the demand for the withdrawal of the occupation army and a ceasefire is met," the member added. Deal will be characterised by Israel and Hamas Israel has been willing only to suspend the war in exchange for hostages, saying it would resume the campaign to eliminate the Hamas threat. A senior Biden administration official asked about a potential rift in the US and Israeli viewpoints on the future of Hamas and suggested this may be open to interpretation and would come down to future Egyptian and Qatari sway over the movement. Also watch | Rafah offensive: Can Netanyahu be arrested for Gaza war crimes? | WION Decodes × "I have no doubt that the deal will be characterised by Israel and be characterised by Hamas," the official said, according to reports. Israeli war cabinet member threatens to resign On Saturday, Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz threatened to resign next week if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not form a Gaza day-after plan with him. Gantz voiced appreciation for Biden and called for the Israeli war cabinet to be convened "to decide the next steps." Netanyahu has faced increasing domestic pressure over the fate of hostages and from a resurgent anti-government movement, with Israelis rallying again on Saturday near military headquarters in Tel Aviv.

Gaza war: Mediators urge Israel and Hamas to finalise US President Biden's peace plan

<p>Hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters marched to the Brooklyn Museum, on Friday (May 31) afternoon and set up tents in a bid to occupy the museum. They even unfurled a “Free Palestine” banner from the roof before the police stormed the place and began arresting the demonstrators.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police, on Saturday (Jun 1) said they have taken&nbsp;more than two dozen people in custody after the&nbsp;pro-Palestinian protest.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Watch: Hundreds of protesters storm museum</strong></h2>

<p>Images and videos on social media show the art museum in the New York City borough of Brooklyn being stormed by hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters which led to its closure an hour early.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the beginning of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, the United States has witnessed massive, often violent, protests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the protest, a banner that read “Free Palestine. Divest From Genocide” was also unfurled from the roof. The protesters also clashed with the officers from the New York Police Department (NYPD) inside and outside the building.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-live-israel-storms-into-central-rafah-turns-a-deaf-ear-to-international-outcry-727423">&nbsp;Israel storms into central Rafah, turns a deaf ear to international outcry</a></strong></p>

<p>The rally began on Friday afternoon across the street at Barclays Center after which protesters, chanting and banging drums, as per the Associated Press made their way to the museum which is around 1.6 kilometres away.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shut the Brooklyn Museum down!!!!! <a href="https://t.co/pciD3EvGJy">pic.twitter.com/pciD3EvGJy</a></p>
— Within Our Lifetime (@WOLPalestine) <a href="https://twitter.com/WOLPalestine/status/1796647236748583043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The protest organisers, including the group Within Our Lifetime, called on supporters to “flood” and “de-occupy” the museum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Organisers also wanted to take over the building until officials “disclose and divest ” from any investments linked to Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>At least 29 arrested</strong></h2>

<p>NYPD officers were seen tackling and punching protesters during the scuffles while demonstrators reportedly hurled plastic bottles at officers and shouted insults.</p>

<p>On Saturday, the NYPD said it detained 29 people during the protest out of which, six&nbsp;were arrested and charged with offenses including assault and criminal trespassing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally,&nbsp;16 people were released with orders to appear in court and around&nbsp;seven others were issued summonses and released, said an NYPD spokesperson in an email to Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Guards at the museum were also seen trying to secure its doors against the surging crowd while protesters found other ways to enter the museum.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised.</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: Hundreds of pro-Palestine protesters have stormed into the Brooklyn Museum, breaking through barricades, pushing staff out and occupying the building.⁰⁰📌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Brooklyn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Brooklyn</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewYork?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewYork</a> ⁰<br />
Currently, an estimated 500-700 or possibly more pro-Palestine protesters have stormed… <a href="https://t.co/cAaSHb4xtm">pic.twitter.com/cAaSHb4xtm</a></p>
— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) <a href="https://twitter.com/rawsalerts/status/1796663129406894235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">More scenes of the New York Police suppressing pro-Palēstine demonstrators inside the Brooklyn Museum and arresting a number of them! <a href="https://t.co/meHYvHk57d">pic.twitter.com/meHYvHk57d</a></p>
— 🔻 mari 🔻 (@marisaturno_) <a href="https://twitter.com/marisaturno_/status/1796736410960941411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>One of the arrests came after a man defaced an outdoor sculpture with graffiti, a Reuters witness said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Brooklyn Museum responds</strong></h2>

<p>“There was damage to existing and newly installed artwork on our plaza,” said the museum in an email to Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several protesters scrawled messages on the OY/YO sculpture on the plaza outside the entrance of the museum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “Protesters entered the building, and our public safety staff were physically and verbally harassed.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-lays-out-three-phases-of-israels-ceasefire-proposal-says-its-time-to-end-war-727553">Biden lays out new Israel ceasefire proposal, says it's 'time for this war to end'</a></strong></p>

<p>“Out of a concern for the building, our collections, and our staff, the decision was made to close the building an hour early,” said the museum officials, adding that the public was asked to vacate peacefully.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘We’re back bitches’</strong></h2>

<p>Students at Columbia University, on Friday night, set up a new encampment on campus ahead of the school’s alumni weekend to show support for Palestinians in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We’re back bitches,” declared one sign put up by the protesters as seen in a video by the New York Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by Reuters citing a video on social media said campus security was seen taking down the tents but as of Friday night, police were not involved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are aware of the encampment erected this evening and are monitoring the situation. We remain committed to hosting a successful weekend for our alumni,” said Columbia spokesperson Samantha Slater.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters marched to the Brooklyn Museum, on Friday (May 31) afternoon and set up tents in a bid to occupy the museum. They even unfurled a “Free Palestine” banner from the roof before the police stormed the place and began arresting the demonstrators.

Hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters marched to the Brooklyn Museum, on Friday (May 31) afternoon and set up tents in a bid to occupy the museum. They even unfurled a “Free Palestine” banner from the roof before the police stormed the place and began arresting the demonstrators. The police, on Saturday (Jun 1) said they have taken more than two dozen people in custody after the pro-Palestinian protest. Watch: Hundreds of protesters storm museum Images and videos on social media show the art museum in the New York City borough of Brooklyn being stormed by hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters which led to its closure an hour early. Since the beginning of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, the United States has witnessed massive, often violent, protests. During the protest, a banner that read “Free Palestine. Divest From Genocide” was also unfurled from the roof. The protesters also clashed with the officers from the New York Police Department (NYPD) inside and outside the building. Also Read | Israel storms into central Rafah, turns a deaf ear to international outcry The rally began on Friday afternoon across the street at Barclays Center after which protesters, chanting and banging drums, as per the Associated Press made their way to the museum which is around 1.6 kilometres away. Shut the Brooklyn Museum down!!!!! pic.twitter.com/pciD3EvGJy — Within Our Lifetime (@WOLPalestine) May 31, 2024 × The protest organisers, including the group Within Our Lifetime, called on supporters to “flood” and “de-occupy” the museum. Organisers also wanted to take over the building until officials “disclose and divest ” from any investments linked to Israel. At least 29 arrested NYPD officers were seen tackling and punching protesters during the scuffles while demonstrators reportedly hurled plastic bottles at officers and shouted insults. On Saturday, the NYPD said it detained 29 people during the protest out of which, six were arrested and charged with offenses including assault and criminal trespassing. Additionally, 16 people were released with orders to appear in court and around seven others were issued summonses and released, said an NYPD spokesperson in an email to Reuters. Guards at the museum were also seen trying to secure its doors against the surging crowd while protesters found other ways to enter the museum. Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised. 🚨#BREAKING: Hundreds of pro-Palestine protesters have stormed into the Brooklyn Museum, breaking through barricades, pushing staff out and occupying the building.⁰⁰📌#Brooklyn | #NewYork ⁰ Currently, an estimated 500-700 or possibly more pro-Palestine protesters have stormed… pic.twitter.com/cAaSHb4xtm — R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) May 31, 2024 × More scenes of the New York Police suppressing pro-Palēstine demonstrators inside the Brooklyn Museum and arresting a number of them! pic.twitter.com/meHYvHk57d — 🔻 mari 🔻 (@marisaturno_) June 1, 2024 × One of the arrests came after a man defaced an outdoor sculpture with graffiti, a Reuters witness said. Brooklyn Museum responds “There was damage to existing and newly installed artwork on our plaza,” said the museum in an email to Reuters. Several protesters scrawled messages on the OY/YO sculpture on the plaza outside the entrance of the museum. It added, “Protesters entered the building, and our public safety staff were physically and verbally harassed.” Also Read | Biden lays out new Israel ceasefire proposal, says it's 'time for this war to end' “Out of a concern for the building, our collections, and our staff, the decision was made to close the building an hour early,” said the museum officials, adding that the public was asked to vacate peacefully. ‘We’re back bitches’ Students at Columbia University, on Friday night, set up a new encampment on campus ahead of the school’s alumni weekend to show support for Palestinians in Gaza. “We’re back bitches,” declared one sign put up by the protesters as seen in a video by the New York Times. A report by Reuters citing a video on social media said campus security was seen taking down the tents but as of Friday night, police were not involved. “We are aware of the encampment erected this evening and are monitoring the situation. We remain committed to hosting a successful weekend for our alumni,” said Columbia spokesperson Samantha Slater. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 29 pro-Palestinian protesters detained after storming Brooklyn Museum

<p>United States President Joe Biden, while speaking at a press conference, said that Israel's ceasefire proposal will have three phases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that the first phase will last for six weeks and will include a "full and complete ceasefire"; withdrawal of Israeli forces "from all populated areas of Gaza"; release of a number of hostages, including women, the elderly, the wounded in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners' release.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden added that Palestinian civilians would be able to return anywhere in Gaza and humanitarian assistance will be increased.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that the ceasefire plan will allow a "surge" in humanitarian aid and there will be "600 trucks carrying aid into Gaza every single day."</p>

<p>"With a ceasefire, that aid could be safely and effectively distributed to all who need it. All that and more would begin immediately," said Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The phase three of the ceasefire plan will include the return of remains of hostages who were abducted from Israel on October 7 and are now dead.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-live-israel-storms-into-central-rafah-turns-a-deaf-ear-to-international-outcry-727423">Gaza war:&nbsp;Israel storms into central Rafah, turns a deaf ear to international outcry</a></p>

<p>"Any final remains of hostages who have been killed would be returned to their families," said Biden.&nbsp; He, however, accepted that some people in Israel would not agree with the proposal. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I urge the leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, despite whatever pressure comes," he added.</p>

<p>While addressing the citizens of Israel, Biden said that he has made a life-long commitment to the country.</p>

<p>"I ask you to take a step back and think what will happen if this moment is lost," said Biden. He added that "we can't lose this moment" and further argued against "indefinite war".</p>

<p>The US president emphasised the need for a diplomatic solution in the war-torn region. He said&nbsp;that Palestinian and Israeli leaders will have to come together and rebuild Gaza in a way that Hamas is not rearmed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden said that the US government will provide all possible help to build schools and hospitals in Gaza. He said that the proposal is also giving Israel a chance to emerge as a strong regional player.</p>

<p>"All this progress would make Israel more secure," said Biden, adding they will no longer be "living in the shadow of a terrorist attack".</p>

<p>"All this would create the conditions for a different future, and a better future, for the Palestinian people," a future of "dignity" and "freedom", he said, adding, "This path is available, once the deal is struck."</p>

<h2><strong>Biden calls it a 'truly decisive moment', appeals to 'end war'</strong></h2>

<p>The US president said that it is&nbsp;"truly a decisive moment". "Israel has made their proposal, and Hamas says it wants a ceasefire - this deal is an opportunity prove whether they really mean it. Hamas needs to take the deal," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel war: Rafah battle intensifies as Israel seizes key Gaza-Egypt corridor</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-rafah-battle-intensifies-as-israel-seizes-key-gaza-egypt-corridor-727272/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Biden said that people have for months&nbsp;called for a ceasefire and now it is the time to yield to their voices and bring Hamas to an agreement over the deal.</p>

<p>While finishing his address, Biden said, "It's time to begin this new stage" and ring the hostages back so that Israel is secured and suffering ends. "It's time for this war to end, and for the day after to begin," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States President Joe Biden, while speaking at a press conference, said that Israel's ceasefire proposal will have three phases. He added that the first phase will last for six weeks and will include a "full and complete ceasefire"; withdrawal of Israeli forces "from all populated areas of Gaza"; release of a number of hostages, including women, the elderly, the wounded in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners' release.

United States President Joe Biden, while speaking at a press conference, said that Israel's ceasefire proposal will have three phases. He added that the first phase will last for six weeks and will include a "full and complete ceasefire"; withdrawal of Israeli forces "from all populated areas of Gaza"; release of a number of hostages, including women, the elderly, the wounded in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners' release. Biden added that Palestinian civilians would be able to return anywhere in Gaza and humanitarian assistance will be increased. He said that the ceasefire plan will allow a "surge" in humanitarian aid and there will be "600 trucks carrying aid into Gaza every single day." "With a ceasefire, that aid could be safely and effectively distributed to all who need it. All that and more would begin immediately," said Biden. The phase three of the ceasefire plan will include the return of remains of hostages who were abducted from Israel on October 7 and are now dead. Also Read: Gaza war: Israel storms into central Rafah, turns a deaf ear to international outcry "Any final remains of hostages who have been killed would be returned to their families," said Biden. He, however, accepted that some people in Israel would not agree with the proposal. "I urge the leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, despite whatever pressure comes," he added. While addressing the citizens of Israel, Biden said that he has made a life-long commitment to the country. "I ask you to take a step back and think what will happen if this moment is lost," said Biden. He added that "we can't lose this moment" and further argued against "indefinite war". The US president emphasised the need for a diplomatic solution in the war-torn region. He said that Palestinian and Israeli leaders will have to come together and rebuild Gaza in a way that Hamas is not rearmed. Biden said that the US government will provide all possible help to build schools and hospitals in Gaza. He said that the proposal is also giving Israel a chance to emerge as a strong regional player. "All this progress would make Israel more secure," said Biden, adding they will no longer be "living in the shadow of a terrorist attack". "All this would create the conditions for a different future, and a better future, for the Palestinian people," a future of "dignity" and "freedom", he said, adding, "This path is available, once the deal is struck." Biden calls it a 'truly decisive moment', appeals to 'end war' The US president said that it is "truly a decisive moment". "Israel has made their proposal, and Hamas says it wants a ceasefire - this deal is an opportunity prove whether they really mean it. Hamas needs to take the deal," he said. Watch: Israel war: Rafah battle intensifies as Israel seizes key Gaza-Egypt corridor Biden said that people have for months called for a ceasefire and now it is the time to yield to their voices and bring Hamas to an agreement over the deal. While finishing his address, Biden said, "It's time to begin this new stage" and ring the hostages back so that Israel is secured and suffering ends. "It's time for this war to end, and for the day after to begin," he added. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden lays out new Israel ceasefire proposal, says it's 'time for this war to end'

<p>United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (May 31) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-lays-out-three-phases-of-israels-ceasefire-proposal-says-its-time-to-end-war-727553">unveiled a three-phase Israeli proposal</a> to the Palestinian militant group Hamas seeking to end the almost eight-month-long war. If accepted, the proposal in question would lead to a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave and the release of hostages held by Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘It’s time for this war to end’</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking about the plan, the US president said that Israel’s ceasefire proposal will have three phases which will begin with a six-week complete ceasefire, see the return of hostages in Gaza, the release of Palestinians from Israeli jails, and reconstruction of the Palestinian enclave which has been destroyed amid months of fighting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s time for this war to end, for the day after to begin,” said Biden in a televised speech from the White House. He added, “Israel has offered a comprehensive new proposal. It’s a roadmap to an enduring ceasefire and the release of all hostages.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden says time for Gaza war to end</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-us-president-joe-biden-says-time-for-gaza-war-to-end-727777/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>This comes as the incumbent president and presumptive Democratic presidential nominee has faced pressure from people in his own party as well as Americans who have criticised the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protesters-storm-brooklyn-museum-unfurl-banner-police-arrest-several-727612">Biden administration’s support for Israel</a> in the ongoing war amid the mounting death toll and deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel which sparked the war in Gaza, led to the deaths of at least 1,200 people and around 250 others were taken by the militant group to the Palestinian enclave as hostages, according to the Israeli officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel has since launched a military operation into Gaza which has killed more than 36,000 people, mostly civilians, as claimed by the Hamas-run health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the three-phase plan</strong></h2>

<p>The <strong>first phase</strong> will include a ceasefire, partial withdrawal of Israeli forces and release of some hostages in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden said that the first phase of Israel’s offer would last six weeks and would also include a “full and complete” ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces from “all populated areas” of Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This phase would also see the release of a number of hostages including “women, the elderly, the wounded in exchange for release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners,” said the US president. It also includes talks between Israel and Hamas to get to the next phase of the proposal.</p>

<p>Additionally, Palestinian civilians will return to their homes and neighbourhoods in all areas of Gaza. This comes as the Israeli military’s evacuation orders have led to the displacing of 1.7 million people, more than 75 per cent of Gaza’s population.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As a part of the first phase, humanitarian assistance will increase to 600 trucks carrying aid into Gaza per day. “With a ceasefire, that aid could be safely and effectively distributed to all who need it,” said Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The <strong>second phase</strong> will include a “permanent end to hostilities” after negotiations, said Biden and the release of all remaining hostages. However, he noted that this phase could take longer than six weeks due to the differences between the two sides; during this time, the ceasefire will continue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Israel will want to make sure its interests are protected but the proposal says if the negotiations take longer than six weeks from phase one, the ceasefire will still continue for as long as negotiations continue,” said the US president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US, Qatar and Egypt will ensure that talks continue until “all agreements are reached” during this period, said Biden. The second phase will also see the release of the rest of the hostages who are alive including male soldiers, while Israeli forces withdraw from Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“And as long as Hamas lives up to its commitments, a temporary ceasefire will become – in the words of the Israeli proposal – the cessation of hostilities permanently,” said the US president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The <strong>third and last phase</strong> would include a “major reconstruction plan for Gaza and any final remains of hostages who have been killed would be returned to their families,” said Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even if the ongoing war in Gaza was to end today, it would take until 2040 to rebuild all the homes that have been destroyed so far, said a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rebuilding-gaza-to-at-least-16-years-and-cost-around-30-to-40-billion-un-717472">report by the United Nations</a>, earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel has “devastated Hamas forces over the past eight months,” said Biden, adding that at this point “Hamas no longer is capable of carrying out another Oct. 7.”</p>

<p>Arab nations and the international community will also help in Gaza rebuilding efforts, but in a “manner that does not allow Hamas to rearm,” the US president added. Washington will work with its partners to rebuild homes, schools and hospitals in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Hamas reacts ‘positively’</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas, on Friday, said that it “considers positively” the Israeli plan towards a full ceasefire in Gaza. During his speech, the US president urged the militant group to accept the proposal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Palestinian militant group, in a statement, said that it “considers positively” Biden’s speech about “a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, reconstruction and the exchange of prisoners”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the war, there have been multiple rounds of talks between Israel and Hamas, but except for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-says-hostage-release-to-start-7am-friday-first-13-captives-to-be-out-at-4pm-662051">one week-long ceasefire in November</a> to facilitate the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners from Israel, there has been no progress.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu says war will not end</strong></h2>

<p>Amid some hope after Biden’s speech, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was quick to throw cold water on peace talks saying that the war will not end until the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-offering-gaza-peace-roadmap-netanyahu-says-war-will-not-end-until-elimination-of-hamas-727660">“elimination” of Hamas</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu’s office said that he “authorised the negotiating team to present an outline for achieving (the return of hostages), while insisting that the war will not end until all of its goals are achieved…”</p>

<p>The aims include “return of all our hostages and the elimination of Hamas's military and governmental capabilities,” it added.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, on Friday, accused Israel of “using negotiations as a cover to continue its aggression” and said that the Palestinian militant group “refuses to be a part of these manoeuvres”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Netanyahu’s government has been facing near-daily protests for multiple reasons including the war in Gaza. After Biden’s speech, families of Israeli hostages also called on all parties to immediately accept the recent proposal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We want to see people coming back from Gaza alive and soon,” Gili Roman, whose sister, Yarden Roman-Gat, was taken hostage and freed during the ceasefire in November, told the Associated Press.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Yarden’s sister-in-law, Carmel, is still being held in the Palestinian enclave. “This might be the last chance to save lives. Therefore, the current state must be changed and we expect all to adhere to Biden’s call for accepting the deal on the table, immediately,” Gili added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Situation in Gaza</strong></h2>

<p>Hundreds of thousands of Gazans are moving out of Rafah, where up to 1.4 million people displaced due to the war were sheltering after the Israeli military began striking the city which was once said to be a safe zone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged Friday that the humanitarian situation was “dire” despite Washington’s efforts to increase the amount of aid entering Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The World Food Programme (WFP) said daily life had become “apocalyptic” in southern Gaza after Israel began its assault on Rafah in early May.&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.</strong></em></p>


United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (May 31) unveiled a three-phase Israeli proposal to the Palestinian militant group Hamas seeking to end the almost eight-month-long war.

United States President Joe Biden, on Friday (May 31) unveiled a three-phase Israeli proposal to the Palestinian militant group Hamas seeking to end the almost eight-month-long war. If accepted, the proposal in question would lead to a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave and the release of hostages held by Hamas. ‘It’s time for this war to end’ Speaking about the plan, the US president said that Israel’s ceasefire proposal will have three phases which will begin with a six-week complete ceasefire, see the return of hostages in Gaza, the release of Palestinians from Israeli jails, and reconstruction of the Palestinian enclave which has been destroyed amid months of fighting. “It’s time for this war to end, for the day after to begin,” said Biden in a televised speech from the White House. He added, “Israel has offered a comprehensive new proposal. It’s a roadmap to an enduring ceasefire and the release of all hostages.” WATCH | US President Joe Biden says time for Gaza war to end This comes as the incumbent president and presumptive Democratic presidential nominee has faced pressure from people in his own party as well as Americans who have criticised the Biden administration’s support for Israel in the ongoing war amid the mounting death toll and deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel which sparked the war in Gaza, led to the deaths of at least 1,200 people and around 250 others were taken by the militant group to the Palestinian enclave as hostages, according to the Israeli officials. Israel has since launched a military operation into Gaza which has killed more than 36,000 people, mostly civilians, as claimed by the Hamas-run health ministry. About the three-phase plan The first phase will include a ceasefire, partial withdrawal of Israeli forces and release of some hostages in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Biden said that the first phase of Israel’s offer would last six weeks and would also include a “full and complete” ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces from “all populated areas” of Gaza. This phase would also see the release of a number of hostages including “women, the elderly, the wounded in exchange for release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners,” said the US president. It also includes talks between Israel and Hamas to get to the next phase of the proposal. Additionally, Palestinian civilians will return to their homes and neighbourhoods in all areas of Gaza. This comes as the Israeli military’s evacuation orders have led to the displacing of 1.7 million people, more than 75 per cent of Gaza’s population. As a part of the first phase, humanitarian assistance will increase to 600 trucks carrying aid into Gaza per day. “With a ceasefire, that aid could be safely and effectively distributed to all who need it,” said Biden. The second phase will include a “permanent end to hostilities” after negotiations, said Biden and the release of all remaining hostages. However, he noted that this phase could take longer than six weeks due to the differences between the two sides; during this time, the ceasefire will continue. “Israel will want to make sure its interests are protected but the proposal says if the negotiations take longer than six weeks from phase one, the ceasefire will still continue for as long as negotiations continue,” said the US president. The US, Qatar and Egypt will ensure that talks continue until “all agreements are reached” during this period, said Biden. The second phase will also see the release of the rest of the hostages who are alive including male soldiers, while Israeli forces withdraw from Gaza. “And as long as Hamas lives up to its commitments, a temporary ceasefire will become – in the words of the Israeli proposal – the cessation of hostilities permanently,” said the US president. The third and last phase would include a “major reconstruction plan for Gaza and any final remains of hostages who have been killed would be returned to their families,” said Biden. Even if the ongoing war in Gaza was to end today, it would take until 2040 to rebuild all the homes that have been destroyed so far, said a report by the United Nations, earlier this month. Israel has “devastated Hamas forces over the past eight months,” said Biden, adding that at this point “Hamas no longer is capable of carrying out another Oct. 7.” Arab nations and the international community will also help in Gaza rebuilding efforts, but in a “manner that does not allow Hamas to rearm,” the US president added. Washington will work with its partners to rebuild homes, schools and hospitals in the Palestinian enclave. Hamas reacts ‘positively’ Hamas, on Friday, said that it “considers positively” the Israeli plan towards a full ceasefire in Gaza. During his speech, the US president urged the militant group to accept the proposal. The Palestinian militant group, in a statement, said that it “considers positively” Biden’s speech about “a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, reconstruction and the exchange of prisoners”. Amid the war, there have been multiple rounds of talks between Israel and Hamas, but except for a one week-long ceasefire in November to facilitate the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners from Israel, there has been no progress. Netanyahu says war will not end Amid some hope after Biden’s speech, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was quick to throw cold water on peace talks saying that the war will not end until the “elimination” of Hamas. Netanyahu’s office said that he “authorised the negotiating team to present an outline for achieving (the return of hostages), while insisting that the war will not end until all of its goals are achieved…” The aims include “return of all our hostages and the elimination of Hamas's military and governmental capabilities,” it added. Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, on Friday, accused Israel of “using negotiations as a cover to continue its aggression” and said that the Palestinian militant group “refuses to be a part of these manoeuvres”. Notably, Netanyahu’s government has been facing near-daily protests for multiple reasons including the war in Gaza. After Biden’s speech, families of Israeli hostages also called on all parties to immediately accept the recent proposal. “We want to see people coming back from Gaza alive and soon,” Gili Roman, whose sister, Yarden Roman-Gat, was taken hostage and freed during the ceasefire in November, told the Associated Press. However, Yarden’s sister-in-law, Carmel, is still being held in the Palestinian enclave. “This might be the last chance to save lives. Therefore, the current state must be changed and we expect all to adhere to Biden’s call for accepting the deal on the table, immediately,” Gili added. Situation in Gaza Hundreds of thousands of Gazans are moving out of Rafah, where up to 1.4 million people displaced due to the war were sheltering after the Israeli military began striking the city which was once said to be a safe zone. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged Friday that the humanitarian situation was “dire” despite Washington’s efforts to increase the amount of aid entering Gaza. The World Food Programme (WFP) said daily life had become “apocalyptic” in southern Gaza after Israel began its assault on Rafah in early May. (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.

Explained: Biden details Israel’s new three-phase ceasefire proposal amid Gaza war. What is it about?

<p>The Israeli military on Friday (May 31) said that its military forces have moved towards central Rafah and are now pushing deeper into the southern Gaza city amid international backlash and constant pressure from allies to pull back the offensive.</p>

<p>Israeli commandoes with artillery and tanks are stationed in central Rafah, said the Israeli military, in a statement.&nbsp;The IDF further confirmed that the&nbsp;Israeli military is in central Rafah, which is clearly seen as defiance of&nbsp;international pressure.</p>

<p>The Israeli military had on Wednesday (May 29) said that it had established “operational control” over the border zone with Egypt, called the Philadelphi Corridor.</p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid4kEFrTOfx66K" /></p>

<h2><strong>Here's a look at the latest updates:</strong></h2>

<p>1) Spain rejected the "restrictions" which were to be imposed on the activities of its consulate in Jerusalem by Israel after Madrid recognised a Palestinian state, said Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares. "This morning we sent a 'note verbale' to the Israeli government in which we reject any restriction on the normal activity of the Spanish consulate general in Jerusalem, as its status is guaranteed by international law. This status cannot therefore be changed unilaterally by Israel," he said, adding Madrid had asked Israel "to reverse this decision."</p>

<p>2) Israeli hostage negotiating team's member called Hamas' stance, of negotiating only if the operations in the Gaza Strip end, as "delusional". “It won’t happen. Israel is fighting in Gaza, it will continue to fight in Gaza with all its strength, and if they want a truce for the benefit of Gaza’s residents it must only be through negotiating the release of hostages,” the official said.</p>

<p>3)&nbsp;Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah group's rescuers said that a medic was killed and another suffered injuries in an Israeli strike in south Lebanon. "An Israeli drone strike targeted an ambulance... One rescuer was martyred and another wounded" in the border town of Naqura, stated the Hezbollah-affiliated Islamic Health Committee, while speaking to AFP.</p>

<p>4)&nbsp;US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the humanitarian situation is still dire in Gaza, especially in terms of aid distribution to civilians. “Rafah remains closed and that’s a real problem,” said Blinken&nbsp;in a press conference in Prague.&nbsp;</p>

<p>5) UN Palestinian refugee agency chief Philippe Lazzarini wrote in an opinion article that Israel "must stop its campaign against UNRWA". The article was published by the New York Times. "The war in Gaza has produced a blatant disregard for the mission of the United Nations, including outrageous attacks on (UNRWA) employees, facilities and operations," said agency chief Lazzarini. He added, "These attacks must stop and the world must act to hold the perpetrators accountable."</p>

<p>6)&nbsp;The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza announced that till now at least 36,284 people have lost their lives in the territory in more than seven months of the Gaza 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>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Israeli military on Friday (May 31) said that its military forces have moved towards central Rafah and are now pushing deeper into the southern Gaza city amid international backlash and constant pressure from allies to pull back the offensive.

The Israeli military on Friday (May 31) said that its military forces have moved towards central Rafah and are now pushing deeper into the southern Gaza city amid international backlash and constant pressure from allies to pull back the offensive. Israeli commandoes with artillery and tanks are stationed in central Rafah, said the Israeli military, in a statement. The IDF further confirmed that the Israeli military is in central Rafah, which is clearly seen as defiance of international pressure. The Israeli military had on Wednesday (May 29) said that it had established “operational control” over the border zone with Egypt, called the Philadelphi Corridor. Here's a look at the latest updates: 1) Spain rejected the "restrictions" which were to be imposed on the activities of its consulate in Jerusalem by Israel after Madrid recognised a Palestinian state, said Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares. "This morning we sent a 'note verbale' to the Israeli government in which we reject any restriction on the normal activity of the Spanish consulate general in Jerusalem, as its status is guaranteed by international law. This status cannot therefore be changed unilaterally by Israel," he said, adding Madrid had asked Israel "to reverse this decision." 2) Israeli hostage negotiating team's member called Hamas' stance, of negotiating only if the operations in the Gaza Strip end, as "delusional". “It won’t happen. Israel is fighting in Gaza, it will continue to fight in Gaza with all its strength, and if they want a truce for the benefit of Gaza’s residents it must only be through negotiating the release of hostages,” the official said. 3) Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah group's rescuers said that a medic was killed and another suffered injuries in an Israeli strike in south Lebanon. "An Israeli drone strike targeted an ambulance... One rescuer was martyred and another wounded" in the border town of Naqura, stated the Hezbollah-affiliated Islamic Health Committee, while speaking to AFP. 4) US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the humanitarian situation is still dire in Gaza, especially in terms of aid distribution to civilians. “Rafah remains closed and that’s a real problem,” said Blinken in a press conference in Prague. 5) UN Palestinian refugee agency chief Philippe Lazzarini wrote in an opinion article that Israel "must stop its campaign against UNRWA". The article was published by the New York Times. "The war in Gaza has produced a blatant disregard for the mission of the United Nations, including outrageous attacks on (UNRWA) employees, facilities and operations," said agency chief Lazzarini. He added, "These attacks must stop and the world must act to hold the perpetrators accountable." 6) The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza announced that till now at least 36,284 people have lost their lives in the territory in more than seven months of the Gaza 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israel storms into central Rafah, turning a deaf ear to international outcry

<p>A Pro-Palestine protester was detained by the Glasgow police on Friday (May 31) after he tied himself to the goal post before the Women’s Euro 2025 qualifier between hosts Scotland and Israel. The contest&nbsp;set to be played behind closed doors due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine was delayed after a protester wearing a “red card for Israel” T-shirt stormed onto the pitch at Hampden Park. As a result, the match had a 45-minute delay before the protester was taken off the pitch.</p>

<h2><strong>What was the incident?</strong></h2>

<p>A group of Pro-Palestine supporters had announced a protest against Israel ahead of the much-awaited Euro 2025 qualifier. Some 400 fans gathered near the premises of the famous Hampden Park stadium in Scotland with some carrying small coffins and Palestinian flags as reported by BBC.</p>

<p>Signs included one reading “Israeli team not welcome in Glasgow.”</p>

<p>One of the protesters found a way to enter the pitch area where he&nbsp;tied himself to a goalpost with a heavy-duty bike lock and wore&nbsp;a black t-shirt that said “red card for Israel.”</p>

<p>The protest had been a feature in the build-up to the match as the government and Football Association of Scotland had already declared that the match would be played behind closed doors to avoid any fan violence. Therefore no Israel fans traveled to the match while Scotland fans were asked to stay at home.</p>

<p>As soon as the game kicked off demonstrators booed and blew whistles, while fireworks were let off, according to BBC.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-virat-kohli-lands-in-united-states-unlikely-to-participate-in-warm-up-matches-727526">T20 World Cup 2024: Virat Kohli lands in United States, unlikely to participate in warm-up match</a></p>

<p>Before the start of the game, Israeli players held up a 'Bring Them Home' shirt with a picture of Israeli hostage Naama Levy written on it after she was taken hostage by Hamas on October 7.</p>

<p>It has been almost eight months since Israel and Hamas are at war which has divided the world. While some nations have protested against Israel&nbsp;few have&nbsp;supported their move of carrying out military action against Hamas, that is declared an international terrorist group.</p>

<p>UEFA has to avoid any such conflicts and considering fans safety has switched Israel’s reverse fixture against Scotland to BSC Stadium in Budapest, Hungary.</p>


A Pro-Palestine protester was detained by the Glasgow police on Friday (May 31) after he tied himself to the goal post before the Women’s Euro 2025 qualifier between hosts Scotland and Israel.

A Pro-Palestine protester was detained by the Glasgow police on Friday (May 31) after he tied himself to the goal post before the Women’s Euro 2025 qualifier between hosts Scotland and Israel. The contest set to be played behind closed doors due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine was delayed after a protester wearing a “red card for Israel” T-shirt stormed onto the pitch at Hampden Park. As a result, the match had a 45-minute delay before the protester was taken off the pitch. What was the incident? A group of Pro-Palestine supporters had announced a protest against Israel ahead of the much-awaited Euro 2025 qualifier. Some 400 fans gathered near the premises of the famous Hampden Park stadium in Scotland with some carrying small coffins and Palestinian flags as reported by BBC. Signs included one reading “Israeli team not welcome in Glasgow.” One of the protesters found a way to enter the pitch area where he tied himself to a goalpost with a heavy-duty bike lock and wore a black t-shirt that said “red card for Israel.” The protest had been a feature in the build-up to the match as the government and Football Association of Scotland had already declared that the match would be played behind closed doors to avoid any fan violence. Therefore no Israel fans traveled to the match while Scotland fans were asked to stay at home. As soon as the game kicked off demonstrators booed and blew whistles, while fireworks were let off, according to BBC. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2024: Virat Kohli lands in United States, unlikely to participate in warm-up match Before the start of the game, Israeli players held up a 'Bring Them Home' shirt with a picture of Israeli hostage Naama Levy written on it after she was taken hostage by Hamas on October 7. It has been almost eight months since Israel and Hamas are at war which has divided the world. While some nations have protested against Israel few have supported their move of carrying out military action against Hamas, that is declared an international terrorist group. UEFA has to avoid any such conflicts and considering fans safety has switched Israel’s reverse fixture against Scotland to BSC Stadium in Budapest, Hungary.

Pro-Palestine protester detained in Glasgow before Scotland-Israel Women's Euro 2025 qualifier

<p>India said on Thursday (May 30) that the "heartbreaking" loss of civilian lives in the displacement camp in Rafah is a matter of "deep concern" amid the deteriorating situation in the Gaza Strip because of the ongoing war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking during the weekly briefing, Randhir Jaiswal, who is the official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, said that India has consistently called for the protection of the civilian population and respect for international humanitarian law in the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We also note that the Israeli side has already accepted responsibility for it as a tragic accident and announced an investigation into the incident," Jaiswal added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-uncovers-15-kilometre-long-terrorist-tunnel-route-in-eastern-rafah-727109">Gaza war: Israel uncovers 1.5-km-long 'terrorist' tunnel route in east Rafah</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>India's remarks came amid Rafah residents on Thursday reported intense artillery shelling and gunfire in Gaza's far-southern city. The reported aggression increased after Israel said it had seized a strategic corridor on the Palestinian territory's border with Egypt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel launched its incursion into Rafah in early May despite worldwide concerns over the fate of Palestinian residents sheltering in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaiswal also said that India believes in the establishment of a sovereign, viable, and independent state of Palestine within recognised and mutually agreed borders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As you are aware, India was one of the first countries to recognise the state of Palestine in the late 1980s, and we have long supported two-state solution," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-takes-operational-control-of-crucial-egypt-gaza-corridor-726869">Israel takes 'operational control' of crucial Egypt-Gaza corridor</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Absence of day-after plan could trigger chaos in Gaza: Blinken&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Israeli airstrike on Rafah kills 12 Palestinians&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Gaza medics claimed that Israeli forces killed at least 12 Palestinians in a dawn airstrike on Rafah in southern Gaza on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Citing Gaza medical sources, the news agency Reuters reported that 12 Palestinians had been killed and an unspecified number of others wounded in an Israeli airstrike as they tried to recover the body of a civilian in the centre of Rafah. It is&nbsp;claimed that all were civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The medics said that another Palestinian civilian was killed in an airstrike on Al-Shati refugee camp west of Gaza City in the north of the densely populated enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


India said on Thursday (May 30) that the "heartbreaking" loss of civilian lives in the displacement camp in Rafah is a matter of "deep concern" amid the deteriorating situation in the Gaza Strip because of the ongoing war.

India said on Thursday (May 30) that the "heartbreaking" loss of civilian lives in the displacement camp in Rafah is a matter of "deep concern" amid the deteriorating situation in the Gaza Strip because of the ongoing war. While speaking during the weekly briefing, Randhir Jaiswal, who is the official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, said that India has consistently called for the protection of the civilian population and respect for international humanitarian law in the ongoing conflict. "We also note that the Israeli side has already accepted responsibility for it as a tragic accident and announced an investigation into the incident," Jaiswal added. Also read: Gaza war: Israel uncovers 1.5-km-long 'terrorist' tunnel route in east Rafah India's remarks came amid Rafah residents on Thursday reported intense artillery shelling and gunfire in Gaza's far-southern city. The reported aggression increased after Israel said it had seized a strategic corridor on the Palestinian territory's border with Egypt. Israel launched its incursion into Rafah in early May despite worldwide concerns over the fate of Palestinian residents sheltering in the region. Jaiswal also said that India believes in the establishment of a sovereign, viable, and independent state of Palestine within recognised and mutually agreed borders. "As you are aware, India was one of the first countries to recognise the state of Palestine in the late 1980s, and we have long supported two-state solution," he said. Also read: Israel takes 'operational control' of crucial Egypt-Gaza corridor Watch: Absence of day-after plan could trigger chaos in Gaza: Blinken × Israeli airstrike on Rafah kills 12 Palestinians Gaza medics claimed that Israeli forces killed at least 12 Palestinians in a dawn airstrike on Rafah in southern Gaza on Thursday. Citing Gaza medical sources, the news agency Reuters reported that 12 Palestinians had been killed and an unspecified number of others wounded in an Israeli airstrike as they tried to recover the body of a civilian in the centre of Rafah. It is claimed that all were civilians. The medics said that another Palestinian civilian was killed in an airstrike on Al-Shati refugee camp west of Gaza City in the north of the densely populated 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: India concerned over 'heartbreaking' loss of civilian lives in Rafah

<p>Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Wednesday claimed to have uncovered&nbsp;a 1.5-kilometre-long "terrorist" tunnel route in eastern Rafah, which had&nbsp;dozens of anti-tank missiles and weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes hours after the Israeli army said that it had gained "operational control" over the strategic Philadelphi corridor along the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt.&nbsp;A military official told reporters on condition of anonymity that Israel has "established operational control" over the 14-kilometre (8.5-mile) corridor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>IDF also said that 100 meters from the Rafah Crossing, Israeli soldiers located a tunnel shaft branching into several different routes that contained several blast doors, a hideout and additional facilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The tunnels were used to carry out terrorist attacks against our forces," IDF said, further adding, "We will continue operating wherever Hamas is hiding in order to eliminate the threat they pose to Israelis."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-takes-operational-control-of-crucial-egypt-gaza-corridor-726869">Israel takes 'operational control' of crucial Egypt-Gaza corridor</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Israeli forces have continued their raids in Rafah, where some 1.4 million people sought refuge when the Israeli offensive started in Northern Gaza, despite a global outcry and an order from the International Court of Justice for a halt to the attacks on the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, residents in Rafah said Israeli tanks had pushed into Tel Al-Sultan in the west and Yibna and near Shaboura in the centre before retreating towards a buffer zone on the border with Egypt, rather than staying put the way they did in other offensives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We received distress calls from residents in Tel Al-Sultan where drones targeted displaced citizens as they moved from areas where they were staying toward the safe areas," the deputy director of ambulance and emergency services in Rafah, Haitham al Hams, said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hits-back-at-pro-palestine-all-eyes-on-rafah-image-with-where-were-your-eyes-on-october-7-726955">AI image war: Israel hits back at 'All eyes on Rafah' with an image of its own</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Israel intercepts cruise missile&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>IDF also claimed that they had shot down a cruise missile "launched from the east", suggesting that it was fired from Iraq. However, there's no confirmation yet. The army has described attacks from Iraq in the past as "from the east".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a top Israeli security official stated&nbsp;that the war could go on until the year&nbsp;end.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The military also claims that a "suspicious aerial target" that crossed from Lebanon was shot down by the Iron Dome air defense system a short time ago after alarms went off in the northern town of Margaliot. Local reports mentioned that there were no injuries or damage caused in the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Absence of day-after plan could trigger chaos in Gaza, says Blinken&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Death toll update</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In the latest update, the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said on Thursday that at least 36,224 people have been killed in the territory in the war so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The toll includes at least 53 deaths over the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said, adding that 81,777 people have been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Wednesday claimed to have uncovered a 1.5-kilometre-long "terrorist" tunnel route in eastern Rafah, which had dozens of anti-tank missiles and weapons.

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Wednesday claimed to have uncovered a 1.5-kilometre-long "terrorist" tunnel route in eastern Rafah, which had dozens of anti-tank missiles and weapons. This comes hours after the Israeli army said that it had gained "operational control" over the strategic Philadelphi corridor along the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt. A military official told reporters on condition of anonymity that Israel has "established operational control" over the 14-kilometre (8.5-mile) corridor. IDF also said that 100 meters from the Rafah Crossing, Israeli soldiers located a tunnel shaft branching into several different routes that contained several blast doors, a hideout and additional facilities. "The tunnels were used to carry out terrorist attacks against our forces," IDF said, further adding, "We will continue operating wherever Hamas is hiding in order to eliminate the threat they pose to Israelis." Also read: Israel takes 'operational control' of crucial Egypt-Gaza corridor Israeli forces have continued their raids in Rafah, where some 1.4 million people sought refuge when the Israeli offensive started in Northern Gaza, despite a global outcry and an order from the International Court of Justice for a halt to the attacks on the city. Meanwhile, residents in Rafah said Israeli tanks had pushed into Tel Al-Sultan in the west and Yibna and near Shaboura in the centre before retreating towards a buffer zone on the border with Egypt, rather than staying put the way they did in other offensives. "We received distress calls from residents in Tel Al-Sultan where drones targeted displaced citizens as they moved from areas where they were staying toward the safe areas," the deputy director of ambulance and emergency services in Rafah, Haitham al Hams, said. Also read: AI image war: Israel hits back at 'All eyes on Rafah' with an image of its own Israel intercepts cruise missile IDF also claimed that they had shot down a cruise missile "launched from the east", suggesting that it was fired from Iraq. However, there's no confirmation yet. The army has described attacks from Iraq in the past as "from the east". Meanwhile, a top Israeli security official stated that the war could go on until the year end. The military also claims that a "suspicious aerial target" that crossed from Lebanon was shot down by the Iron Dome air defense system a short time ago after alarms went off in the northern town of Margaliot. Local reports mentioned that there were no injuries or damage caused in the attack. Watch: Absence of day-after plan could trigger chaos in Gaza, says Blinken × Death toll update In the latest update, the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said on Thursday that at least 36,224 people have been killed in the territory in the war so far. The toll includes at least 53 deaths over the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said, adding that 81,777 people have been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israel uncovers 1.5-kilometre-long 'terrorist' tunnel route in eastern Rafah

<p>Earlier this week, Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognised Palestinian statehood after a coordinated effort by the three Western European nations in what they said was an attempt to bring the focus back to finding a political solution amid the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>145 countries now recognise a Palestinian state</strong></h2>

<p>The three European countries joined 142 others out of the 193 members of the United Nations which have recognised a Palestinian state.</p>

<p>The group of now 145 countries includes a number of nations in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. However, the list does not include any major countries like the United States, Canada, most of western Europe, Australia, Japan and South Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Spain, Norway &amp; Ireland formally recognise Palestinian state</strong></p>

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<p>However, Spain, Ireland and Norway are hoping to change that. The three countries believe that by acting together other European countries will follow suit for a diplomatic push to help secure a ceasefire in Gaza as well as bring back the hostages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel led to the killing of 1,200 people, and around 250 others were taken back to the Palestinian enclave as hostages, according to Israeli officials.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>EU countries and Palestine</strong></h2>

<p>Before European Union countries, Ireland and Spain, joined the list only seven members of the 27-nation bloc had officially recognised a Palestinian state. Out of which, six had announced recognition back in 1988 prior to the creation of the bloc. In 2014, Sweden became the first EU nation to do so.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also seems like the efforts by the three countries&nbsp;have worked as EU member Slovenia is set to recognise Palestinian statehood in June after Prime Minister Robert Golob said his government will forward its decision to parliament for final approval, on Thursday (May 30).&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, despite many European countries criticising Israel for its military operation in Gaza, the 27-nation bloc remains divided.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some countries in the EU have sought to recognise a Palestinian state in hopes of eventually bringing peace in the Middle East, while other countries like Germany, Hungary, and the Netherlands staunchly support <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-netanyahu-helped-grow-hamas-which-became-the-frankensteins-monster-for-him-651336">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>’s government.</p>

<p>Finnish President Alexander Stubb, according to the state media, has also said that they would also recognise Palestine “at some stage in the future”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>France has previously indicated that it will not join other countries in recognising a Palestinian state, with Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne accusing fellow EU members of making the move as part of “political positioning,” instead of seeking a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.</p>

<h2><strong>Three countries&nbsp;recognise&nbsp;Palestinian state</strong></h2>

<p>Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez, on Tuesday (May 28) announcing the move said that “this is a historic decision that has a single goal, and that is to help Israelis and Palestinians achieve peace.”</p>

<p>He also said that the decision is not against Israel whom Sánchez called a “friendly people whom we respect, whom we appreciate and with whom we want to have the best possible relationship.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-norway-recognise-palestinian-statehood-ireland-to-follow-suit-726323">Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognise Palestinian statehood as Israel fumes</a></strong></p>

<p>Ireland and Norway soon joined Spain in formalising the decision which they had jointly announced a week prior and hoped their decision will accelerate efforts towards securing a ceasefire amid the way which is now in its eighth month.</p>

<p>The countries said that they recognised a Palestinian state based on borders established before the war in 1967, with Jerusalem as the capital of both Israel and Palestine.</p>

<p>However, they acknowledged that those borders might change if any eventual talks take place for a two-state solution to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-core-israel-palestine-issues-whats-the-future-of-peace-attempts-646716">Israeli-Palestinian conflict</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, the Palestinian flag was raised in Dublin outside Leinster House, the seat of Ireland’s parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I hope (this) sends the Palestinian people a message of hope that – in this their darkest hour – Ireland stands with them,” Irish PM Simon Harris told lawmakers after his cabinet approved the decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the ongoing war in Gaza, Ireland has time and time again voiced its support for Palestinians and condemned Israel for its military operation in the blockaded enclave which, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, has killed more than 36,000 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, in a statement, said Oslo has been one of the “strongest advocates for a Palestinian state” and called it a “milestone in the relationship between Norway and Palestine.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ireland said it would appoint an ambassador and create a full embassy in the West Bank’s Ramallah. Meanwhile, Norway will upgrade its diplomatic office in the West Bank to an embassy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Spain, for now, said it will maintain its consulate in Jerusalem. However, Israel said that the consulate won’t be allowed to attend to Palestinians.</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden has opposed “unilateral recognition” of a Palestinian state, saying that it “should be realised through direct negotiations between the parties.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel’s reaction</strong></h2>

<p>As expected, the decision taken by the three countries left Israel fuming. After the announcement by the Spanish PM, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz quickly lashed out at Madrid saying that Sánchez’s government was “being complicit in inciting genocide against Jews and war crimes.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/its-reward-for-terror-netanyahu-blasts-ireland-norway-spain-for-recognising-palestinian-state-724448">‘It’s reward for terror’: Netanyahu blasts Ireland, Norway, Spain for recognising Palestinian state</a></strong></p>

<p>Israeli officials also summoned the countries’ ambassadors in Tel Aviv to the foreign ministry where they were filmed while being shown videos of Hamas’ attacks and abductions on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Netanyahu called it a “reward for terror” saying that a sovereign State of Palestine would be a “terror state” that would “try to repeatedly carry out the massacre of October 7th”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Will recognition make a difference?</strong></h2>

<p>While the decision by the three nations is mostly symbolic, since they aren’t recognising an existing state, just the possibility of one, it does help enhance the Palestinians’ international standing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Palestinians have long sought an independent state which would be made up of Gaza, the West Bank and east Jerusalem, territories Israel captured in the 1967 Mideast war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To make it happen, the idea of a land corridor linking Gaza and the West Bank through Israel was discussed in previous rounds of peace talks, but nothing came of them and negotiations have not been held in more than 15 years.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-accused-of-failing-miserably-as-war-cabinet-members-press-for-israel-elections-726873">Netanyahu accused of 'failing miserably' as war cabinet members press for Israel elections</a></strong></p>

<p>The recognition, particularly by Spain, Ireland and Norway, also makes Israel look more isolated on the international stage amid a wave of criticism against Israeli military operations in Gaza and Netanyahu and heaps more pressure on Israel to open negotiations on ending the war.</p>

<h2><strong>Countries that recognise Palestinian state</strong></h2>

<p>India was among the first countries to officially recognise an independent Palestinian state on November 15, 1988, during the first Palestinian intifada (uprising) when Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat unilaterally proclaimed an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.</p>

<p>Algeria became the first country to do so, and within a few weeks India, Turkey, most of Africa and several central and eastern European countries followed suit.</p>

<p>The next wave of recognition was in late 2010 and early 2011 with South American countries including Argentina, Brazil and Chile joining the list in response to Israel ending its temporary ban on Jewish settlement building in the occupied West Bank.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Earlier this week, Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognised Palestinian statehood after a coordinated effort by the three Western European nations in what they said was an attempt to bring the focus back to finding a political solution amid the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Earlier this week, Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognised Palestinian statehood after a coordinated effort by the three Western European nations in what they said was an attempt to bring the focus back to finding a political solution amid the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas. 145 countries now recognise a Palestinian state The three European countries joined 142 others out of the 193 members of the United Nations which have recognised a Palestinian state. The group of now 145 countries includes a number of nations in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. However, the list does not include any major countries like the United States, Canada, most of western Europe, Australia, Japan and South Korea. WATCH | Spain, Norway & Ireland formally recognise Palestinian state However, Spain, Ireland and Norway are hoping to change that. The three countries believe that by acting together other European countries will follow suit for a diplomatic push to help secure a ceasefire in Gaza as well as bring back the hostages. The Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel led to the killing of 1,200 people, and around 250 others were taken back to the Palestinian enclave as hostages, according to Israeli officials. EU countries and Palestine Before European Union countries, Ireland and Spain, joined the list only seven members of the 27-nation bloc had officially recognised a Palestinian state. Out of which, six had announced recognition back in 1988 prior to the creation of the bloc. In 2014, Sweden became the first EU nation to do so. It also seems like the efforts by the three countries have worked as EU member Slovenia is set to recognise Palestinian statehood in June after Prime Minister Robert Golob said his government will forward its decision to parliament for final approval, on Thursday (May 30). However, despite many European countries criticising Israel for its military operation in Gaza, the 27-nation bloc remains divided. Some countries in the EU have sought to recognise a Palestinian state in hopes of eventually bringing peace in the Middle East, while other countries like Germany, Hungary, and the Netherlands staunchly support Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. Finnish President Alexander Stubb, according to the state media, has also said that they would also recognise Palestine “at some stage in the future”. France has previously indicated that it will not join other countries in recognising a Palestinian state, with Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne accusing fellow EU members of making the move as part of “political positioning,” instead of seeking a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Three countries recognise Palestinian state Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez, on Tuesday (May 28) announcing the move said that “this is a historic decision that has a single goal, and that is to help Israelis and Palestinians achieve peace.” He also said that the decision is not against Israel whom Sánchez called a “friendly people whom we respect, whom we appreciate and with whom we want to have the best possible relationship.” Also Read | Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognise Palestinian statehood as Israel fumes Ireland and Norway soon joined Spain in formalising the decision which they had jointly announced a week prior and hoped their decision will accelerate efforts towards securing a ceasefire amid the way which is now in its eighth month. The countries said that they recognised a Palestinian state based on borders established before the war in 1967, with Jerusalem as the capital of both Israel and Palestine. However, they acknowledged that those borders might change if any eventual talks take place for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. On Tuesday, the Palestinian flag was raised in Dublin outside Leinster House, the seat of Ireland’s parliament. “I hope (this) sends the Palestinian people a message of hope that – in this their darkest hour – Ireland stands with them,” Irish PM Simon Harris told lawmakers after his cabinet approved the decision. Amid the ongoing war in Gaza, Ireland has time and time again voiced its support for Palestinians and condemned Israel for its military operation in the blockaded enclave which, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, has killed more than 36,000 people. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, in a statement, said Oslo has been one of the “strongest advocates for a Palestinian state” and called it a “milestone in the relationship between Norway and Palestine.” Ireland said it would appoint an ambassador and create a full embassy in the West Bank’s Ramallah. Meanwhile, Norway will upgrade its diplomatic office in the West Bank to an embassy. Spain, for now, said it will maintain its consulate in Jerusalem. However, Israel said that the consulate won’t be allowed to attend to Palestinians. US President Joe Biden has opposed “unilateral recognition” of a Palestinian state, saying that it “should be realised through direct negotiations between the parties.” Israel’s reaction As expected, the decision taken by the three countries left Israel fuming. After the announcement by the Spanish PM, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz quickly lashed out at Madrid saying that Sánchez’s government was “being complicit in inciting genocide against Jews and war crimes.” Also Watch | ‘It’s reward for terror’: Netanyahu blasts Ireland, Norway, Spain for recognising Palestinian state Israeli officials also summoned the countries’ ambassadors in Tel Aviv to the foreign ministry where they were filmed while being shown videos of Hamas’ attacks and abductions on October 7. Meanwhile, Netanyahu called it a “reward for terror” saying that a sovereign State of Palestine would be a “terror state” that would “try to repeatedly carry out the massacre of October 7th”. Will recognition make a difference? While the decision by the three nations is mostly symbolic, since they aren’t recognising an existing state, just the possibility of one, it does help enhance the Palestinians’ international standing. Palestinians have long sought an independent state which would be made up of Gaza, the West Bank and east Jerusalem, territories Israel captured in the 1967 Mideast war. To make it happen, the idea of a land corridor linking Gaza and the West Bank through Israel was discussed in previous rounds of peace talks, but nothing came of them and negotiations have not been held in more than 15 years. Also Read | Netanyahu accused of 'failing miserably' as war cabinet members press for Israel elections The recognition, particularly by Spain, Ireland and Norway, also makes Israel look more isolated on the international stage amid a wave of criticism against Israeli military operations in Gaza and Netanyahu and heaps more pressure on Israel to open negotiations on ending the war. Countries that recognise Palestinian state India was among the first countries to officially recognise an independent Palestinian state on November 15, 1988, during the first Palestinian intifada (uprising) when Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat unilaterally proclaimed an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital. Algeria became the first country to do so, and within a few weeks India, Turkey, most of Africa and several central and eastern European countries followed suit. The next wave of recognition was in late 2010 and early 2011 with South American countries including Argentina, Brazil and Chile joining the list in response to Israel ending its temporary ban on Jewish settlement building in the occupied West Bank. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Spain, Ireland and Norway formally recognise Palestinian statehood. Here’s why it matters

<p>The Israeli army on Wednesday (May 29) claimed that it had gained "operational control" over the strategic Philadelphi corridor along the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt. The move coincided with a top Israeli security official statement that the war could go on until the year's end.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A military official told reporters on condition of anonymity that Israel has "established operational control" over the 14-kilometre (8.5-mile) corridor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel has been continuing with its offensive assault on Gaza's far south as the humanitarian situation in the Strip deteriorates at an alarming rate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-denies-attack-in-rafah-evacuation-area-that-killed-21-us-says-no-change-in-policy-726465">IDF claims hidden weapons cache likely triggered Rafah camp fire, denies attacking evacuation area</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The seizure came just a few weeks after Israeli forces took control of Egypt's Rafah border crossing on May 7. The corridor was previously operated as a buffer zone between Gaza and Egypt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Israeli troops patrolled it until 2005, when they were removed as part of a larger withdrawal from the Gaza Strip. However, there were fears since then that the corridor was being used to channel weapons to armed groups in the Palestinian territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nikki-haley-writes-finish-them-on-israeli-shell-amid-outrage-over-rafah-assault-726648">Nikki Haley writes 'Finish Them' on Israeli shell amid outrage over Rafah assault</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>'War will continue until early 2025'</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>A top Israeli security official said Wednesday the war against Hamas in Gaza could go on until the year's end to achieve the aim of destroying the Palestinian militant group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We may have another seven months of fighting to consolidate our success and achieve what we have defined as the destruction of Hamas's power and military capabilities," National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Did Israel spy on ICC prosecutor?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>"Victory for us means destroying Hamas's military capabilities, bringing back all the hostages and ensuring that at the end of the war there are no more threats from Gaza," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In other words no more Iranian-funded terrorist armies on our border," Hanegbi told public broadcaster Kan, speaking from Cyprus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official also said that discussions were underway over Gaza's post-war future. He said, "We are trying to plan what will happen after the war, so that the Palestinians will be responsible for their own lives. We will be responsible for Israel's security but we don't want to rule in Gaza."&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>


The Israeli army on Wednesday (May 29) claimed that it had gained "operational control" over the strategic Philadelphi corridor along the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt.

The Israeli army on Wednesday (May 29) claimed that it had gained "operational control" over the strategic Philadelphi corridor along the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt. The move coincided with a top Israeli security official statement that the war could go on until the year's end. A military official told reporters on condition of anonymity that Israel has "established operational control" over the 14-kilometre (8.5-mile) corridor. Israel has been continuing with its offensive assault on Gaza's far south as the humanitarian situation in the Strip deteriorates at an alarming rate. Also read: IDF claims hidden weapons cache likely triggered Rafah camp fire, denies attacking evacuation area The seizure came just a few weeks after Israeli forces took control of Egypt's Rafah border crossing on May 7. The corridor was previously operated as a buffer zone between Gaza and Egypt. Notably, Israeli troops patrolled it until 2005, when they were removed as part of a larger withdrawal from the Gaza Strip. However, there were fears since then that the corridor was being used to channel weapons to armed groups in the Palestinian territory. Also read: Nikki Haley writes 'Finish Them' on Israeli shell amid outrage over Rafah assault 'War will continue until early 2025' A top Israeli security official said Wednesday the war against Hamas in Gaza could go on until the year's end to achieve the aim of destroying the Palestinian militant group. "We may have another seven months of fighting to consolidate our success and achieve what we have defined as the destruction of Hamas's power and military capabilities," National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi said. Watch: Did Israel spy on ICC prosecutor? × "Victory for us means destroying Hamas's military capabilities, bringing back all the hostages and ensuring that at the end of the war there are no more threats from Gaza," he said. "In other words no more Iranian-funded terrorist armies on our border," Hanegbi told public broadcaster Kan, speaking from Cyprus. The official also said that discussions were underway over Gaza's post-war future. He said, "We are trying to plan what will happen after the war, so that the Palestinians will be responsible for their own lives. We will be responsible for Israel's security but we don't want to rule in Gaza." Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israel takes 'operational control' of crucial Egypt-Gaza corridor

<p>After the pro-Palestine 'All Eyes on Rafah' AI-generated image went viral on social media, Israel has hit back by posting a similar image of its own. The counter-image features the text "Where were your eyes on October 7" and depicts a Hamas militant standing armed in front of an infant.</p>

<p>The infant in the image, as per Times of Israel, is presumed to be Kfir Bibas, a nine-month-old infant who, along with his brother and mother, was taken hostage by Hamas on October 7.</p>

<h2><strong>Where were your eyes?</strong></h2>

<p>Israel has shared the AI-generated counter image on social media platform X.</p>

<p>It comes after over 44 million accounts shared the "All Eyes on Rafah" image on Instagram alone.&nbsp;Furthermore, as per an AFP report citing online monitor Visibrain, the hashtag #alleyesonrafah on X attracted almost one million hits.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-accused-of-failing-miserably-as-war-cabinet-members-press-for-israel-elections-726873">Netanyahu accused of 'failing miserably' as war cabinet members press for Israel elections</a></strong></p>

<p>Sharing the image on X, Israel wrote, "We will NEVER stop talking about October 7th."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will NEVER stop fighting for the hostages," it added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We will NEVER stop talking about October 7th.<br />
<br />
We will NEVER stop fighting for the hostages. <a href="https://t.co/XoFqAf1IjM">pic.twitter.com/XoFqAf1IjM</a></p>
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel/status/1795899775335727169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>On October 7 of last year, Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, killing 1,189 people.</p>

<p>Furthermore, the militants took hostage 252 people, of which 121 remain in Gaza, seven months into the war sparked by the Hamas attack. Israel claims that of the 121 hostages, 37 are dead.</p>

<h2>Instagram takes down 'Where were your eyes' image creator's account</h2>

<p>As per the Times of Israel, the image was created by an Israeli Instagram user named Benjamin Jamon. Within hours of his posting, the AI-generated image was taken down, and his Instagram account was banned from the platform.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-recognises-palestine-right-thing-to-do-at-right-time-foreign-minister-eide-tells-wion-726877">Norway recognises Palestine: 'Right thing to do at right time', Foreign Minister Eide tells WION</a></strong></p>

<p>While there was no initial explanation from Instagram about why the image was taken down, its parent company, Meta, said that it was "working to understand a technical issue that led to some instances of the image being mistakenly removed."</p>

<p>"This image does not violate our policies," said the statement, adding that it was "working to understand what technical problem led to its accidental removal".</p>

<p>This comes as, on Wednesday (May 29) human rights groups as per the Guardian, coordinated an online protest calling on Meta to put an end to its alleged "systemic censorship of pro-Palestinian content" on its platforms and within the workforce. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Meta finds deceptive AI-generated content</strong></h2>

<p>Also, on Wednesday, Meta revealed that it had found "likely AI-generated" content used deceptively on its Facebook and Instagram platforms. As per Reuters, this includes comments by accounts praising Israel's handling of the war in Gaza, posted by accounts posing as Jewish students, African Americans and other concerned citizens. Meta has attributed the deceptive campaign to Tel Aviv-based political marketing firm STOIC.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After the pro-Palestine 'All Eyes on Rafah' AI-generated image went viral on social media, Israel has hit back by posting a similar image of its own. The counter-image features the text "Where were your eyes on October 7" and depicts a Hamas militant standing armed in front of an infant.

After the pro-Palestine 'All Eyes on Rafah' AI-generated image went viral on social media, Israel has hit back by posting a similar image of its own. The counter-image features the text "Where were your eyes on October 7" and depicts a Hamas militant standing armed in front of an infant. The infant in the image, as per Times of Israel, is presumed to be Kfir Bibas, a nine-month-old infant who, along with his brother and mother, was taken hostage by Hamas on October 7. Where were your eyes? Israel has shared the AI-generated counter image on social media platform X. It comes after over 44 million accounts shared the "All Eyes on Rafah" image on Instagram alone. Furthermore, as per an AFP report citing online monitor Visibrain, the hashtag #alleyesonrafah on X attracted almost one million hits. Also read | Netanyahu accused of 'failing miserably' as war cabinet members press for Israel elections Sharing the image on X, Israel wrote, "We will NEVER stop talking about October 7th." "We will NEVER stop fighting for the hostages," it added. We will NEVER stop talking about October 7th. We will NEVER stop fighting for the hostages. pic.twitter.com/XoFqAf1IjM — Israel ישראל (@Israel) May 29, 2024 × On October 7 of last year, Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, killing 1,189 people. Furthermore, the militants took hostage 252 people, of which 121 remain in Gaza, seven months into the war sparked by the Hamas attack. Israel claims that of the 121 hostages, 37 are dead. Instagram takes down 'Where were your eyes' image creator's account As per the Times of Israel, the image was created by an Israeli Instagram user named Benjamin Jamon. Within hours of his posting, the AI-generated image was taken down, and his Instagram account was banned from the platform. Also read | Norway recognises Palestine: 'Right thing to do at right time', Foreign Minister Eide tells WION While there was no initial explanation from Instagram about why the image was taken down, its parent company, Meta, said that it was "working to understand a technical issue that led to some instances of the image being mistakenly removed." "This image does not violate our policies," said the statement, adding that it was "working to understand what technical problem led to its accidental removal". This comes as, on Wednesday (May 29) human rights groups as per the Guardian, coordinated an online protest calling on Meta to put an end to its alleged "systemic censorship of pro-Palestinian content" on its platforms and within the workforce. Meta finds deceptive AI-generated content Also, on Wednesday, Meta revealed that it had found "likely AI-generated" content used deceptively on its Facebook and Instagram platforms. As per Reuters, this includes comments by accounts praising Israel's handling of the war in Gaza, posted by accounts posing as Jewish students, African Americans and other concerned citizens. Meta has attributed the deceptive campaign to Tel Aviv-based political marketing firm STOIC. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel hits back at pro-Palestine 'All Eyes on Rafah' image with 'Where Were Your Eyes on October 7?'

<p>Israeli tanks were prowling in central Rafah on Tuesday (May 28) for the first time, three weeks after the Jewish country launched a ground offensive in the southern Gaza city. News agency Reuters quoted witnesses as saying that the tanks&nbsp;were spotted&nbsp;near Al-Awda mosque, a&nbsp;major&nbsp;landmark.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel war: Macron Discusses Gaza war with Arab ministers</strong></p>

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<p>The military escalation has forced more than 1 million refugees out of the city, with&nbsp;"nowhere safe to go and amidst bombardments, lack of food and water, piles of waste and unsuitable living conditions,” the United Nations Palestinian Refugee Agency (UNRWA) said on Tuesday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjorrb5sLCGAxVs8TgGHZJEAGcQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-aid-trucks-from-egypt-enter-gaza-strip-725545" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-aid-trucks-from-egypt-enter-gaza-strip-725545&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjorrb5sLCGAxVs8TgGHZJEAGcQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">Israel-Hamas war: Aid trucks from Egypt begin entering Gaza Strip</a></strong></p>

<p>So far, more than 36,000 Palestinians have perished&nbsp;and&nbsp;more than 81,000 have sustained injuries since Oct 7, the day when Hamas staged attacks inside Israel and the war started.</p>

<h2><strong>Following are the latest updates from Gaza</strong></h2>

<ol>
	<li>The flow of military aid into Gaza is set to face disruption as a part of the US military's pier off Gaza broke off due to bad weather.&nbsp;US officials didn't reveal how big the part was or speculate on how long it would take for the pier to resume operations. Since the pier began operations, the United Nations has transported 137 trucks of aid from the pier - the equivalent of 900 metric tonnes.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad has released a video showing an Israeli hostage alive and speaking in Hebrew in the 30-second clip. The man is held in the Gaza Strip. Local media said the captive is 28-year-old Sasha Trupanov. It was unclear when the footage was taken. He was taken hostage on Oct 7 last year along with his grandmother, Irena, his mother, Yelena and Trupanov’s partner, Sapir Cohen. The three women were released late last year.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The death toll in new Israeli strikes in the Rafah tent area has reached 21.&nbsp;The strikes targeted tents of displaced families in the designated humanitarian area in Mawasi in western Rafah. 12 of those killed were women.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Palestinians in Gaza thanked Spain, Ireland and Norway for officially recognising a Palestinian state on Tuesday (May 28). The Palestinian Authority also lauded the decision.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>In a move denounced by Israel as a "reward" for Hamas;&nbsp;Spain,&nbsp;Norway and Ireland&nbsp;moved to formally recognise a Palestinian state. Read <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-norway-recognise-palestinian-statehood-ireland-to-follow-suit-726323">more here</a>.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>World Health Organization said Tuesday that Israel's Rafah offensive had made medical evacuations impossible from the area. "There's been an abrupt halt to all medical evacuations," said WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>UNICEF spokesperson James Elder on Tuesday condemned Israel for its strike on Rafah camp that killed at least 45 people. “We heard this called a tragic mishap,&nbsp;a mistake. I guess the question is what then to call the ferocious attacks that have killed thousands and thousands of children?,” he said. “The question that needs to be asked is how many more mistakes is the world going to tolerate?,” he added.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Israeli strikes on Rafah have killed at least 16 Palestinians, first responders said Tuesday as locals reported a military escalation in the region. The strike comes in the same&nbsp;region&nbsp;where an earlier strike killed 45 Palestinians in a Rafah camp, sparking worldwide outrage.</li>
</ol>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli tanks were prowling in central Rafah on Tuesday (May 28) for the first time, three weeks after the Jewish country launched a ground offensive in the southern Gaza city.

Israeli tanks were prowling in central Rafah on Tuesday (May 28) for the first time, three weeks after the Jewish country launched a ground offensive in the southern Gaza city. News agency Reuters quoted witnesses as saying that the tanks were spotted near Al-Awda mosque, a major landmark. Watch: Israel war: Macron Discusses Gaza war with Arab ministers × The military escalation has forced more than 1 million refugees out of the city, with "nowhere safe to go and amidst bombardments, lack of food and water, piles of waste and unsuitable living conditions,” the United Nations Palestinian Refugee Agency (UNRWA) said on Tuesday. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Aid trucks from Egypt begin entering Gaza Strip So far, more than 36,000 Palestinians have perished and more than 81,000 have sustained injuries since Oct 7, the day when Hamas staged attacks inside Israel and the war started. Following are the latest updates from Gaza The flow of military aid into Gaza is set to face disruption as a part of the US military's pier off Gaza broke off due to bad weather. US officials didn't reveal how big the part was or speculate on how long it would take for the pier to resume operations. Since the pier began operations, the United Nations has transported 137 trucks of aid from the pier - the equivalent of 900 metric tonnes. Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad has released a video showing an Israeli hostage alive and speaking in Hebrew in the 30-second clip. The man is held in the Gaza Strip. Local media said the captive is 28-year-old Sasha Trupanov. It was unclear when the footage was taken. He was taken hostage on Oct 7 last year along with his grandmother, Irena, his mother, Yelena and Trupanov’s partner, Sapir Cohen. The three women were released late last year. The death toll in new Israeli strikes in the Rafah tent area has reached 21. The strikes targeted tents of displaced families in the designated humanitarian area in Mawasi in western Rafah. 12 of those killed were women. Palestinians in Gaza thanked Spain, Ireland and Norway for officially recognising a Palestinian state on Tuesday (May 28). The Palestinian Authority also lauded the decision. In a move denounced by Israel as a "reward" for Hamas; Spain, Norway and Ireland moved to formally recognise a Palestinian state. Read more here. World Health Organization said Tuesday that Israel's Rafah offensive had made medical evacuations impossible from the area. "There's been an abrupt halt to all medical evacuations," said WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris. UNICEF spokesperson James Elder on Tuesday condemned Israel for its strike on Rafah camp that killed at least 45 people. “We heard this called a tragic mishap, a mistake. I guess the question is what then to call the ferocious attacks that have killed thousands and thousands of children?,” he said. “The question that needs to be asked is how many more mistakes is the world going to tolerate?,” he added. Israeli strikes on Rafah have killed at least 16 Palestinians, first responders said Tuesday as locals reported a military escalation in the region. The strike comes in the same region where an earlier strike killed 45 Palestinians in a Rafah camp, sparking worldwide outrage. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Death toll in new Israeli strikes in Rafah tent camp area reaches 21

<p>The UN Security Council is set to hold an emergency meeting on Tuesday (May 28). This comes after an Israeli strike killed dozens in a displaced persons camp in Rafah and as three European nations — Spain, Ireland, and Norway — are poised to officially recognise a Palestinian state.</p>

<p>Citing diplomats, AFP reports that the UN Security Council meeting was called by Algeria to address the Sunday incident.</p>

<h2><strong>Attack in Rafah claims 45 lives</strong></h2>

<p>The attack on Sunday night was aimed at killing two senior Hamas members. It ignited a fire in a displacement centre, killing 45 people, according to Gaza health officials.&nbsp;The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling it a "massacre". Israel has referred to it as a "tragic accident".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vows-to-crush-pro-palestinian-protests-after-returning-to-white-house-726207">Trump&nbsp;vows to crush pro-Palestinian protests after returning to White House</a></strong></p>

<p>UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his dismay, stating, "There is no safe place in Gaza. This horror must stop."</p>

<p>UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths described the attack as "utterly unacceptable".</p>

<p>"We've seen the consequences in last night's utterly unacceptable attack," he said in a statement.</p>

<p>"To call it 'a mistake' is a message that means nothing for those killed, those grieving, and those trying to save lives," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The UN Security Council is set to hold an emergency meeting on Tuesday (May 28). This comes after an Israeli strike killed dozens in a displaced persons camp in Rafah and as three European nations — Spain, Ireland, and Norway — are poised to officially recognise a Palestinian state.

The UN Security Council is set to hold an emergency meeting on Tuesday (May 28). This comes after an Israeli strike killed dozens in a displaced persons camp in Rafah and as three European nations — Spain, Ireland, and Norway — are poised to officially recognise a Palestinian state. Citing diplomats, AFP reports that the UN Security Council meeting was called by Algeria to address the Sunday incident. Attack in Rafah claims 45 lives The attack on Sunday night was aimed at killing two senior Hamas members. It ignited a fire in a displacement centre, killing 45 people, according to Gaza health officials. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling it a "massacre". Israel has referred to it as a "tragic accident". Also read | Trump vows to crush pro-Palestinian protests after returning to White House UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his dismay, stating, "There is no safe place in Gaza. This horror must stop." UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths described the attack as "utterly unacceptable". "We've seen the consequences in last night's utterly unacceptable attack," he said in a statement. "To call it 'a mistake' is a message that means nothing for those killed, those grieving, and those trying to save lives," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

UN Security Council to hold emergency meeting over Israel attacks on Rafah

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Monday (May 27) called the deadly strike by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah a “tragic accident”. The strike on tent camps, according to the Gaza health ministry killed at least 45&nbsp;people and injured nearly 250 others.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Tragic accident’</strong></h2>

<p>“In Rafah, we evacuated a million uninvolved residents and, despite our best efforts, a tragic accident happened yesterday,” the Israeli PM told the parliament (Knesset), adding that they are investigating the case and will draw conclusions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel faced a wave of international criticism and condemnation after the deadly strike in Rafah, but Netanyahu struck a defiant tone during his address while being heckled by relatives of hostages held in Gaza and vowed to keep up the ongoing military operation in the Palestinian enclave to destroy Hamas.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-airstrikes-in-rafah-camp-for-displaced-people-kill-35-palestinians-gaza-health-ministry-725705">Death toll after Israeli strike on Rafah camp rises to 45: Gaza health ministry</a></strong></p>

<p>“There is no substitute for absolute victory,” said Netanyahu. The Israeli PM also denounced the pressure which his government has been facing since the beginning of the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They pressured us then…Don’t enter Gaza. We entered! Do not enter Shifa! We entered! Do not enter Khan Yunis! We entered! Do not enter Rafah! We entered!” said the Israeli PM listing the military operations which Israel carried out in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “I don’t give up and I won’t give up! I stand up to pressures from home and abroad.”</p>

<p>A survivor&nbsp;said families were preparing to sleep when the strike hit the Tel Al-Sultan neighbourhood where thousands were sheltering there after Israeli forces began a ground offensive in the east of Rafah over two weeks ago.</p>

<p>“We were praying...and we were getting our children’s beds ready to sleep. There was nothing unusual, then we heard a very loud noise, and fire erupted around us,” Umm Mohamed Al-Attar, a Palestinian mother, told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rafah strike sparks international criticism&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In an interview with SkyTG24 TV, Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians in Gaza were no longer justifiable in one of the strongest criticisms Rome has made so far against Israel amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There is an increasingly difficult situation, in which the Palestinian people are being squeezed without regard for the rights of innocent men, women and children who have nothing to do with Hamas and this can no longer be justified,” said Crosetto, adding,&nbsp;“We are watching the situation with despair.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said he was “horrified by news coming out of Rafah”. He added, “I condemn this in the strongest terms”. He also accused Netanyahu of using false claims of antisemitism against the International Criminal Court (ICC) for his own political ends.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egyptian-soldier-killed-after-exchange-of-fire-with-israeli-forces-near-rafah-crossing-reports-725985">Egypt confirms soldier killed amid reports of firefight with Israeli troops on Gaza border</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the African Union accused Israel of violating international law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel “continues to violate international law with impunity and in contempt of an ICJ (International Court of Justice) ruling two days ago ordering an end to its military action in Rafah,” said AU Commission head Moussa Faki Mahamat on X.</p>

<p>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said his country would do “everything possible” to hold “barbaric” Netanyahu accountable after the strikes in Rafah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk &nbsp;said that the images from the camp which was struck by Israel “are horrific and point to no apparent change in the methods and means of warfare used by Israel that have already led to so many civilian deaths.”</p>

<p>The UN has also urged Israel to conduct a&nbsp;"thorough and transparent" investigation into a strike and "hold those responsible for any wrongdoing to account."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Monday (May 27) called the deadly strike by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah a “tragic accident”.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Monday (May 27) called the deadly strike by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah a “tragic accident”. The strike on tent camps, according to the Gaza health ministry killed at least 45 people and injured nearly 250 others. ‘Tragic accident’ “In Rafah, we evacuated a million uninvolved residents and, despite our best efforts, a tragic accident happened yesterday,” the Israeli PM told the parliament (Knesset), adding that they are investigating the case and will draw conclusions. Israel faced a wave of international criticism and condemnation after the deadly strike in Rafah, but Netanyahu struck a defiant tone during his address while being heckled by relatives of hostages held in Gaza and vowed to keep up the ongoing military operation in the Palestinian enclave to destroy Hamas. Also Read | Death toll after Israeli strike on Rafah camp rises to 45: Gaza health ministry “There is no substitute for absolute victory,” said Netanyahu. The Israeli PM also denounced the pressure which his government has been facing since the beginning of the war. “They pressured us then…Don’t enter Gaza. We entered! Do not enter Shifa! We entered! Do not enter Khan Yunis! We entered! Do not enter Rafah! We entered!” said the Israeli PM listing the military operations which Israel carried out in the Palestinian enclave. He added, “I don’t give up and I won’t give up! I stand up to pressures from home and abroad.” A survivor said families were preparing to sleep when the strike hit the Tel Al-Sultan neighbourhood where thousands were sheltering there after Israeli forces began a ground offensive in the east of Rafah over two weeks ago. “We were praying...and we were getting our children’s beds ready to sleep. There was nothing unusual, then we heard a very loud noise, and fire erupted around us,” Umm Mohamed Al-Attar, a Palestinian mother, told Reuters. Rafah strike sparks international criticism In an interview with SkyTG24 TV, Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians in Gaza were no longer justifiable in one of the strongest criticisms Rome has made so far against Israel amid the ongoing war. “There is an increasingly difficult situation, in which the Palestinian people are being squeezed without regard for the rights of innocent men, women and children who have nothing to do with Hamas and this can no longer be justified,” said Crosetto, adding, “We are watching the situation with despair.” European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said he was “horrified by news coming out of Rafah”. He added, “I condemn this in the strongest terms”. He also accused Netanyahu of using false claims of antisemitism against the International Criminal Court (ICC) for his own political ends. Also Read | Egypt confirms soldier killed amid reports of firefight with Israeli troops on Gaza border Meanwhile, the African Union accused Israel of violating international law. Israel “continues to violate international law with impunity and in contempt of an ICJ (International Court of Justice) ruling two days ago ordering an end to its military action in Rafah,” said AU Commission head Moussa Faki Mahamat on X. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said his country would do “everything possible” to hold “barbaric” Netanyahu accountable after the strikes in Rafah. The United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk said that the images from the camp which was struck by Israel “are horrific and point to no apparent change in the methods and means of warfare used by Israel that have already led to so many civilian deaths.” The UN has also urged Israel to conduct a "thorough and transparent" investigation into a strike and "hold those responsible for any wrongdoing to account." (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu calls deadly Israeli strike on Rafah ‘tragic accident’ amid international outcry

<p>Egypt confirms that one of its soldiers was killed in a “shooting incident” near the border with the Gazan city of Rafah, on Monday (May 27) seemingly confirming reports of a firefight between Egyptian and Israeli forces amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What we know about ‘shooting incident’</strong></h2>

<p>Prior to the confirmation by Egypt, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said officials were in contact with Cairo following “a shooting incident” on the Gaza-Egypt border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to media reports, there were armed clashes between Israeli and Egyptian forces near the Rafah crossing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;45 killed in Israeli strikes on Rafah tent camp</strong></p>

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<p>“A few hours ago there was a shooting incident on the Egyptian border, the (incident) is under investigation, dialogue is taking place with the Egyptian side,” said the IDF in a statement, as quoted by the Times of Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Egyptian military took to X and said that one of its soldiers was killed and that it was investigating the “shooting incident.”</p>

<p>“The Egyptian Armed Forces are conducting an investigation through the competent authorities regarding a shooting incident in the border area in Rafah, which led to the martyrdom of one of the personnel,” said the Egyptian military.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by the Israeli news site Ynet citing anonymous Israeli military sources said that Egypt was responsible for the deadly exchange of fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Israeli media report, Egyptian forces opened fire on Israeli troops at the Rafah crossing and Israel retaliated. The incident also reportedly left several Egyptian troops injured.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>At least 45 killed after Israeli strike on Rafah&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Israel faced a wave of international criticism and condemnation after at least 45 Palestinians were killed following a strike on tent camps in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-airstrikes-in-rafah-camp-for-displaced-people-kill-35-palestinians-gaza-health-ministry-725705">Death toll after Israeli strike on Rafah camp rises to 45: Gaza health ministry</a></strong></p>

<p>According to the Hamas-run health ministry at least 45 people, including 23 women, children and elderly were killed and 249 others were wounded after the Israeli strike. However, Israel has said that the attack was aimed at a Hamas compound and the army regretted any harm to non-combatants.</p>

<p>“We're looking into this,” said Israeli government spokesman Avi Hyman speaking about the strike in Rafah, adding that it was “definitely grave.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Any loss of life, civilian life, is grave and is awful. We seek to go after Hamas and limit civilian casualties...This is an unfolding story.”</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.</strong></em></p>


Egypt confirms that one of its soldiers was killed in a “shooting incident” near the border with the Gazan city of Rafah, on Monday (May 27) seemingly confirming reports of a firefight between Egyptian and Israeli forces amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in the Palestinian enclave.

Egypt confirms that one of its soldiers was killed in a “shooting incident” near the border with the Gazan city of Rafah, on Monday (May 27) seemingly confirming reports of a firefight between Egyptian and Israeli forces amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in the Palestinian enclave. What we know about ‘shooting incident’ Prior to the confirmation by Egypt, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said officials were in contact with Cairo following “a shooting incident” on the Gaza-Egypt border. According to media reports, there were armed clashes between Israeli and Egyptian forces near the Rafah crossing. WATCH | 45 killed in Israeli strikes on Rafah tent camp “A few hours ago there was a shooting incident on the Egyptian border, the (incident) is under investigation, dialogue is taking place with the Egyptian side,” said the IDF in a statement, as quoted by the Times of Israel. Meanwhile, the Egyptian military took to X and said that one of its soldiers was killed and that it was investigating the “shooting incident.” “The Egyptian Armed Forces are conducting an investigation through the competent authorities regarding a shooting incident in the border area in Rafah, which led to the martyrdom of one of the personnel,” said the Egyptian military. A report by the Israeli news site Ynet citing anonymous Israeli military sources said that Egypt was responsible for the deadly exchange of fire. According to the Israeli media report, Egyptian forces opened fire on Israeli troops at the Rafah crossing and Israel retaliated. The incident also reportedly left several Egyptian troops injured. At least 45 killed after Israeli strike on Rafah Israel faced a wave of international criticism and condemnation after at least 45 Palestinians were killed following a strike on tent camps in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah. Also Read | Death toll after Israeli strike on Rafah camp rises to 45: Gaza health ministry According to the Hamas-run health ministry at least 45 people, including 23 women, children and elderly were killed and 249 others were wounded after the Israeli strike. However, Israel has said that the attack was aimed at a Hamas compound and the army regretted any harm to non-combatants. “We're looking into this,” said Israeli government spokesman Avi Hyman speaking about the strike in Rafah, adding that it was “definitely grave.” He added, “Any loss of life, civilian life, is grave and is awful. We seek to go after Hamas and limit civilian casualties...This is an unfolding story.” (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.

Egypt confirms soldier killed amid reports of firefight with Israeli troops on Gaza border

<p>The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, on Monday (May 27)&nbsp;said that the&nbsp;death toll from an Israeli air strike which hit a&nbsp;camp housing displaced Palestinians in Rafah rose to 45.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This latest attack on tent camps follows the launching of dozens of rockets from Rafah towards central Israel, a first in four months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Rafah massacre yesterday left 45 martyrs, including 23 women, children and elderly. There are 249 others who were wounded," said the Gaza&nbsp;health ministry in an update.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed the airstrikes, stating, "An IDF aircraft struck a Hamas compound in Rafah in which significant Hamas terrorists were operating a short while ago."</p>

<p>In a statement, IDF said that the strike was carried out against "legitimate targets under international law, through the use of precise munitions and on the basis of precise intelligence that indicated Hamas' use of the area."</p>

<p>The IDF also took cognisance of the reports of civilian harm resulting from the airstrike and the subsequent fire and said that the "incident is under review."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Among those targeted in the precise airstrike were two senior Hamas officials - Yassin Rabia and Khaled Nagar.</p>

<p>The IDF described Rabia as managing Hamas' terrorist activities in Judea and Samaria, transferring funds to terrorist targets, and planning multiple attacks that resulted in the deaths of IDF soldiers.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-15-killed-in-texas-arkansas-and-oklahoma-as-powerful-storms-devastate-central-us-725707">At least 15 killed in Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma as powerful storms devastate central US</a></p>

<p>Nagar, a senior official in Hamas’ Judea and Samaria Headquarters, was said to have directed shooting attacks and other terrorist activities and transferred funds intended for Hamas’ terrorist activities in Gaza. IDF said that Nagar also carried out attacks that killed&nbsp;the soldiers of the Israeli army.</p>

<h2><strong>Hamas condemns airstrike</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas condemned the airstrikes and in a statement wrote, “In light of the horrific Zionist massacre this evening committed by the criminal occupation army against the tents of the displaced… we call on the masses of our people in the West Bank, Jerusalem, the occupied territories, and abroad to rise up and march angrily against the ongoing Zionist massacre against our people in the sector."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>This escalation comes amid ongoing international concern, with the International Court of Justice recently ordering Israel to cease its attacks on Rafah. The situation remains tense as the conflict continues to impact civilians and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, on Monday (May 27) said that the death toll from an Israeli air strike which hit a camp housing displaced Palestinians in Rafah rose to 45.

The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, on Monday (May 27) said that the death toll from an Israeli air strike which hit a camp housing displaced Palestinians in Rafah rose to 45. This latest attack on tent camps follows the launching of dozens of rockets from Rafah towards central Israel, a first in four months. "The Rafah massacre yesterday left 45 martyrs, including 23 women, children and elderly. There are 249 others who were wounded," said the Gaza health ministry in an update. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed the airstrikes, stating, "An IDF aircraft struck a Hamas compound in Rafah in which significant Hamas terrorists were operating a short while ago." In a statement, IDF said that the strike was carried out against "legitimate targets under international law, through the use of precise munitions and on the basis of precise intelligence that indicated Hamas' use of the area." The IDF also took cognisance of the reports of civilian harm resulting from the airstrike and the subsequent fire and said that the "incident is under review." Also Read | Staunch Ukraine supporter Gitanas Nauseda wins second term in Lithuanian Presidential Election Among those targeted in the precise airstrike were two senior Hamas officials - Yassin Rabia and Khaled Nagar. The IDF described Rabia as managing Hamas' terrorist activities in Judea and Samaria, transferring funds to terrorist targets, and planning multiple attacks that resulted in the deaths of IDF soldiers. Also Read | At least 15 killed in Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma as powerful storms devastate central US Nagar, a senior official in Hamas’ Judea and Samaria Headquarters, was said to have directed shooting attacks and other terrorist activities and transferred funds intended for Hamas’ terrorist activities in Gaza. IDF said that Nagar also carried out attacks that killed the soldiers of the Israeli army. Hamas condemns airstrike Hamas condemned the airstrikes and in a statement wrote, “In light of the horrific Zionist massacre this evening committed by the criminal occupation army against the tents of the displaced… we call on the masses of our people in the West Bank, Jerusalem, the occupied territories, and abroad to rise up and march angrily against the ongoing Zionist massacre against our people in the sector." Watch | UK: Poll suggests Tories set to lose General polls 2024 × This escalation comes amid ongoing international concern, with the International Court of Justice recently ordering Israel to cease its attacks on Rafah. The situation remains tense as the conflict continues to impact civilians and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. 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)

Death toll after Israeli strike on Rafah camp rises to 45: Gaza health ministry