General Michael Kurilla, the commander of US&nbsp;Central Command (CENTCOM), arrived in Israel on Saturday (Aug&nbsp;3) amid escalating threats of significant Iranian retaliation against Israel, following a series of targeted killings, according to an Axios report.

The report, citing two US officials, suggests that Kurilla's visit aims to bring along Washington's allies in West Asia to thwart any potential attack from Iran, similar to the one on Israel on April 13. But the expected retaliation is likely to be on a much larger scale.

The Biden administration is reportedly concerned about the difficulty in garnering support from West Asia's capitals due to Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh's killing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-hezbollahs-latest-missile-barrage-activates-israels-iron-dome-746940">Video: Hezbollah's latest missile barrage activates Israel's Iron Dome</a>

The assassination is viewed in the broader scope of the internal conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Israeli and US officials have warned that an attack could occur as early as Monday (Aug&nbsp;5).

Although Kurilla's trip was planned before the assassinations of Hezbollah’s Fuad Shukr in Lebanon and Hamas'&nbsp;Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, he is leveraging the visit to strengthen regional defences for Israel.

During his visit, Kurilla is also expected to travel to Jordan and several Gulf countries.

Following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, Iranian officials have vowed severe retaliation. Israel remains on high alert for a possible attack while the United States is deploying additional forces to the region.

Also watch |&nbsp;Haniyeh's killing: Security breach in focus

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Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps declared on Saturday (Aug&nbsp;3) that their revenge would be "severe and at an appropriate time, place, and manner."

Besides, the Permanent Mission of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations told CBS News in an interview on Friday (Aug&nbsp;2) that Hezbollah intends to start targeting Israeli civilians deliberately, a tactic it claims to have refrained from until today.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;US CENTCOM chief arrives in West Asia as Israel prepares for possible Iranian attack?

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"Until now, Hezbollah and the [Zionist] regime have, in an unwritten understanding, practically adhered to certain limits in their military operations, meaning that confining their actions to border areas and shallow zones, targeting primarily military objectives,” a spokesperson from the delegation told CBS News.

"However, the regime’s attack on Dahieh in Beirut and the targeting of a residential building marked a deviation from these boundaries," the spokesperson said. "We anticipate that, in its response, Hezbollah will choose both broader and deeper targets, and will not restrict itself solely to military targets and means."

(With inputs from agencies)

General Michael Kurilla, the commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM), arrived in Israel on Saturday (Aug 3) amid escalating threats of significant Iranian retaliation against Israel, following a series of targeted killings, according to an Axios report.

General Michael Kurilla, the commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM), arrived in Israel on Saturday (Aug 3) amid escalating threats of significant Iranian retaliation against Israel, following a series of targeted killings, according to an Axios report. The report, citing two US officials, suggests that Kurilla's visit aims to bring along Washington's allies in West Asia to thwart any potential attack from Iran, similar to the one on Israel on April 13. But the expected retaliation is likely to be on a much larger scale. The Biden administration is reportedly concerned about the difficulty in garnering support from West Asia's capitals due to Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh's killing. Also read | Video: Hezbollah's latest missile barrage activates Israel's Iron Dome The assassination is viewed in the broader scope of the internal conflict between Israel and Hamas. Israeli and US officials have warned that an attack could occur as early as Monday (Aug 5). Although Kurilla's trip was planned before the assassinations of Hezbollah’s Fuad Shukr in Lebanon and Hamas' Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, he is leveraging the visit to strengthen regional defences for Israel. During his visit, Kurilla is also expected to travel to Jordan and several Gulf countries. Following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, Iranian officials have vowed severe retaliation. Israel remains on high alert for a possible attack while the United States is deploying additional forces to the region. Also watch | Haniyeh's killing: Security breach in focus × Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps declared on Saturday (Aug 3) that their revenge would be "severe and at an appropriate time, place, and manner." Besides, the Permanent Mission of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations told CBS News in an interview on Friday (Aug 2) that Hezbollah intends to start targeting Israeli civilians deliberately, a tactic it claims to have refrained from until today. Also watch | US CENTCOM chief arrives in West Asia as Israel prepares for possible Iranian attack? × "Until now, Hezbollah and the [Zionist] regime have, in an unwritten understanding, practically adhered to certain limits in their military operations, meaning that confining their actions to border areas and shallow zones, targeting primarily military objectives,” a spokesperson from the delegation told CBS News. "However, the regime’s attack on Dahieh in Beirut and the targeting of a residential building marked a deviation from these boundaries," the spokesperson said. "We anticipate that, in its response, Hezbollah will choose both broader and deeper targets, and will not restrict itself solely to military targets and means." (With inputs from agencies)

Top US security official in Israel as Iran's retaliation threat keeps West Asia on edge

Israel's security chiefs reportedly urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to utilize the momentum provided by strikes on terror chiefs to seize the opportunity for a hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas. Watch in for more details!

Security Chiefs urge Netanyahu to seize opportunity for deal, says report

At least 15 Palestinians were killed by an Israeli attack on a Gaza City school that was housing displaced people on Saturday (Aug 3), hours after two strikes in the occupied West Bank killed nine militants, including a local Hamas leader, according to the Palestinian militant group.

The Israeli military said&nbsp;that the first airstrike in the West Bank targeted a vehicle in a town near Tulkarm, aiming at a militant group heading to launch an attack.

According to a statement by Hamas, one of those killed was a leader of the organisation's Tulkarm brigades, while its ally Islamic Jihad said the other four people killed in the hit were combatants.

Hours later, Israel's military claimed a second bombing in the vicinity targeted another group of militants&nbsp;who had fired on forces, as part of a counter-terrorism operation in Tulkarm.

According to the Palestinian news agency WAFA, four people&nbsp;were killed in that strike, while Hamas claimed that all nine of those killed in the two Israeli assaults in the West Bank were militants.

Violence in the West Bank had been increasing even before the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and has continued to rise, with frequent Israeli raids in the area, which Palestinians aim to include in their state.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-kyiv-says-it-sank-russian-submarine-hit-depots-746919">Ukraine war: Kyiv says it sank Russian submarine, hit depots</a>

According to the Hamas-government media office, at least 15 people were killed in the Gaza Strip after Israel struck a school housing displaced residents in Gaza City's Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood.

The Israeli military claims the school was being used by Hamas as a command centre, to conceal militants, and to produce weapons. Hamas has rejected these accusations, saying they do not use civilian sites like schools and hospitals for military purposes.

According to Gaza health officials, Israel's military operation has killed at least 39,550 Palestinians since the beginning of the war. The conflict was initiated by a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, which led to the killing of&nbsp;1,200 people, while&nbsp;250 others were taken as hostages, according to Israeli officials.

(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.

At least 15 Palestinians were killed by an Israeli attack on a Gaza City school that was housing displaced people on Saturday (Aug 3), hours after two strikes in the occupied West Bank killed nine militants, including a local Hamas leader, according to the Palestinian militant group.

At least 15 Palestinians were killed by an Israeli attack on a Gaza City school that was housing displaced people on Saturday (Aug 3), hours after two strikes in the occupied West Bank killed nine militants, including a local Hamas leader, according to the Palestinian militant group. The Israeli military said that the first airstrike in the West Bank targeted a vehicle in a town near Tulkarm, aiming at a militant group heading to launch an attack. According to a statement by Hamas, one of those killed was a leader of the organisation's Tulkarm brigades, while its ally Islamic Jihad said the other four people killed in the hit were combatants. Hours later, Israel's military claimed a second bombing in the vicinity targeted another group of militants who had fired on forces, as part of a counter-terrorism operation in Tulkarm. According to the Palestinian news agency WAFA, four people were killed in that strike, while Hamas claimed that all nine of those killed in the two Israeli assaults in the West Bank were militants. Violence in the West Bank had been increasing even before the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and has continued to rise, with frequent Israeli raids in the area, which Palestinians aim to include in their state. Also read: Ukraine war: Kyiv says it sank Russian submarine, hit depots According to the Hamas-government media office, at least 15 people were killed in the Gaza Strip after Israel struck a school housing displaced residents in Gaza City's Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood. The Israeli military claims the school was being used by Hamas as a command centre, to conceal militants, and to produce weapons. Hamas has rejected these accusations, saying they do not use civilian sites like schools and hospitals for military purposes. According to Gaza health officials, Israel's military operation has killed at least 39,550 Palestinians since the beginning of the war. The conflict was initiated by a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, which led to the killing of 1,200 people, while 250 others were taken as hostages, according to Israeli officials. (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 airstrikes target Gaza school, kills 15; nine West Bank militants dead

An Israeli air strike on a vehicle in the occupied West Bank killed a commander in the Palestinian armed group Hamas on Saturday. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli air strike kills 5 in West Bank, including Hamas commander

According to reports, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu planned to dismiss Defense Minister Yoav Gallant after his return from his visit to the United States. Watch in for more details!

Netanyahu to fire Israeli Defence Minister Gallant

In a sign of major escalation in the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly ordered a direct assault on Israel in retaliation for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on Wednesday, according to three officials briefed on the order

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas' chief killing stirs fear of retaliation

Amid raging war in Gaza between Israel and armed Palestinian groups, including Hamas, an increasing number of Israeli parents are requesting sperm extraction from their deceased sons who were casualties of the ongoing war, according to a BBC report.

Since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel and the subsequent Israeli retaliation, over 400 Israeli troops have been killed in the line of duty, according to official figures.&nbsp;

The Israeli health ministry reports that sperm has been extracted from approximately 170 men, both civilians and soldiers, marking a fifteen-fold increase compared to previous years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-turkey-might-enter-israel-to-help-palestinians-says-erdogan-745100">Gaza war: Turkey might enter Israel to help Palestinians, says Erdogan</a>

The procedure involves making a small incision in the testicle to obtain tissue, from which live sperm cells can be extracted and frozen. This process is most effective within 24 hours after death, though sperm cells can survive up to 72 hours in the body.

To support the affected IDF (Israel Defense Forces) families, some procedural rules have been relaxed, yet many of them&nbsp;remain frustrated by the lengthy legal processes involved.&nbsp;

Last year in October, the Israeli health ministry eliminated the need for a court order to extract sperm. However, widows or parents wishing to use the sperm for conception must still prove in court that the deceased intended to have children, a process that can take years.

Also read |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Prisoners from Gaza war being subjected to brutal torture?

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The precedent for this practice was set in 2002, when an Israeli couple used their deceased soldier son's sperm after he was killed by a Palestinian sniper in Gaza. Their granddaughter is now 10 years old.

Experts point to the significant emotional value this process holds for bereaved families but also highlight the complications arising for single men.

In response to the rising number of casualties in the ongoing conflict, Israeli lawmakers are working on drafting legislation to establish clearer guidelines for sperm retrieval and use.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid raging war in Gaza between Israel and armed Palestinian groups, including Hamas, an increasing number of Israeli parents are requesting sperm extraction from their deceased sons who were casualties of the ongoing war, according to a BBC report.

Amid raging war in Gaza between Israel and armed Palestinian groups, including Hamas, an increasing number of Israeli parents are requesting sperm extraction from their deceased sons who were casualties of the ongoing war, according to a BBC report. Since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel and the subsequent Israeli retaliation, over 400 Israeli troops have been killed in the line of duty, according to official figures. The Israeli health ministry reports that sperm has been extracted from approximately 170 men, both civilians and soldiers, marking a fifteen-fold increase compared to previous years. Also read | Gaza war: Turkey might enter Israel to help Palestinians, says Erdogan The procedure involves making a small incision in the testicle to obtain tissue, from which live sperm cells can be extracted and frozen. This process is most effective within 24 hours after death, though sperm cells can survive up to 72 hours in the body. To support the affected IDF (Israel Defense Forces) families, some procedural rules have been relaxed, yet many of them remain frustrated by the lengthy legal processes involved. Last year in October, the Israeli health ministry eliminated the need for a court order to extract sperm. However, widows or parents wishing to use the sperm for conception must still prove in court that the deceased intended to have children, a process that can take years. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Prisoners from Gaza war being subjected to brutal torture? × The precedent for this practice was set in 2002, when an Israeli couple used their deceased soldier son's sperm after he was killed by a Palestinian sniper in Gaza. Their granddaughter is now 10 years old. Experts point to the significant emotional value this process holds for bereaved families but also highlight the complications arising for single men. In response to the rising number of casualties in the ongoing conflict, Israeli lawmakers are working on drafting legislation to establish clearer guidelines for sperm retrieval and use. (With inputs from agencies)

Families of Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza war harbour grandkids’ hope through sperm extraction

Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of the Palestinian militant group Hamas, was killed on July 31 in Tehran in a raid that Iran has accused Israel of carrying out, pushing West Asia further on edge amid the raging war in Gaza.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) is currently investigating the attack that killed the 62-year-old Haniyeh who&nbsp;was in Tehran to attend the inauguration ceremony of Iran's new president, Masud Pezeshkian, on July 30.&nbsp;

Hamas, which is designated as a terrorist organisation by the United States and the European Union, confirmed Haniyeh’s death via its Telegram channel, stating he was killed in an "air strike on his residence in Tehran".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/between-iran-and-gaza-how-israel-pushed-forward-to-decimate-hamas-before-haniyehs-killing-745966">Between Iran and Gaza: How Israel pushed forward to decimate Hamas before Haniyeh's killing</a>

An Israeli government spokesperson declined to comment on Haniyeh's death.

"We are not commenting on that particular incident," spokesperson David Mencer told a briefing with journalists.

Earlier in the day, a photo of Haniyeh with the word "Eliminated" stamped on his forehead appeared on the Government Press Office's Facebook page before being deleted without explanation. The post did not explicitly claim responsibility but mentioned Haniyeh was "killed in a precise strike in Tehran."

<h2>Haniyeh's death and larger conflict in West Asia</h2>

Haniyeh's death coincides with a US military strike in Iraq as tensions in the region remain heightened amid deepening concerns about a potential all-out war in West Asia. The US strike targeted a base south of Baghdad used by Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces, killing four members and wounding four others. Washington described the strike as an act of self-defence.

In a statement less than 24 hours after his inauguration, President Pezeshkian asserted that Iran "will defend its territorial integrity" following the attack. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also vowed revenge against Israel.

Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas condemned Haniyeh's killing, calling it a “cowardly act and dangerous development,” according to the Palestinian state news agency WAFA.

Several countries have denounced the attack. Russia labeled it an "unacceptable political assassination," while Turkey warned it could escalate the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

The assassination of Haniyeh comes as the United States pushes for a temporary ceasefire and a deal to release hostages held in Gaza. Senior officials from the US, Israel, Qatar, and Egypt are engaged in talks to secure such a deal.

Also watch |&nbsp;2 children and a woman killed; at least 74 people injured during the Israeli strike in Beirut

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that Washington was "not aware of or involved in" Haniyeh’s assassination and refrained from speculating on its regional impact.&nbsp;

Earlier on July 30, Israel announced it had "eliminated" Fuad Shukr, a Hizbollah militant commander allegedly behind a recent rocket attack at Golan Heights, in Beirut. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed Shukr directed Hizbollah attacks but received no immediate response from the group.

Israel has vowed to eliminate Hamas leaders following the group's October 7 attack that killed 1,200 people and resulted in around 250 hostages, some of whom have since been released.

Haniyeh, who became Hamas's political chief in 2017, was living in exile in Qatar since 2019. He was a prominent figure during the recent Gaza conflict, shuttling between countries in West Asia to participate in international negotiations.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of the Palestinian militant group Hamas, was killed on July 31 in Tehran in a raid that Iran has accused Israel of carrying out, pushing West Asia further on edge amid the raging war in Gaza.

Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of the Palestinian militant group Hamas, was killed on July 31 in Tehran in a raid that Iran has accused Israel of carrying out, pushing West Asia further on edge amid the raging war in Gaza. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) is currently investigating the attack that killed the 62-year-old Haniyeh who was in Tehran to attend the inauguration ceremony of Iran's new president, Masud Pezeshkian, on July 30. Hamas, which is designated as a terrorist organisation by the United States and the European Union, confirmed Haniyeh’s death via its Telegram channel, stating he was killed in an "air strike on his residence in Tehran". Also read | Between Iran and Gaza: How Israel pushed forward to decimate Hamas before Haniyeh's killing An Israeli government spokesperson declined to comment on Haniyeh's death. "We are not commenting on that particular incident," spokesperson David Mencer told a briefing with journalists. Earlier in the day, a photo of Haniyeh with the word "Eliminated" stamped on his forehead appeared on the Government Press Office's Facebook page before being deleted without explanation. The post did not explicitly claim responsibility but mentioned Haniyeh was "killed in a precise strike in Tehran." Haniyeh's death and larger conflict in West Asia Haniyeh's death coincides with a US military strike in Iraq as tensions in the region remain heightened amid deepening concerns about a potential all-out war in West Asia. The US strike targeted a base south of Baghdad used by Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces, killing four members and wounding four others. Washington described the strike as an act of self-defence. In a statement less than 24 hours after his inauguration, President Pezeshkian asserted that Iran "will defend its territorial integrity" following the attack. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also vowed revenge against Israel. Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas condemned Haniyeh's killing, calling it a “cowardly act and dangerous development,” according to the Palestinian state news agency WAFA. Several countries have denounced the attack. Russia labeled it an "unacceptable political assassination," while Turkey warned it could escalate the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The assassination of Haniyeh comes as the United States pushes for a temporary ceasefire and a deal to release hostages held in Gaza. Senior officials from the US, Israel, Qatar, and Egypt are engaged in talks to secure such a deal. Also watch | 2 children and a woman killed; at least 74 people injured during the Israeli strike in Beirut × US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that Washington was "not aware of or involved in" Haniyeh’s assassination and refrained from speculating on its regional impact. Earlier on July 30, Israel announced it had "eliminated" Fuad Shukr, a Hizbollah militant commander allegedly behind a recent rocket attack at Golan Heights, in Beirut. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed Shukr directed Hizbollah attacks but received no immediate response from the group. Israel has vowed to eliminate Hamas leaders following the group's October 7 attack that killed 1,200 people and resulted in around 250 hostages, some of whom have since been released. Haniyeh, who became Hamas's political chief in 2017, was living in exile in Qatar since 2019. He was a prominent figure during the recent Gaza conflict, shuttling between countries in West Asia to participate in international negotiations. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel says ‘no comments’, US claims no role in Hamas chief Haniyeh’s assassination

Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, was assassinated reportedly by an Israeli strike in Iran, where he had gone to attend the inauguration of new president Masoud Pezeshkian. It is not clear when he was killed, but the confirmation from the Palestinian militant group came in the early hours of Wednesday (Jul&nbsp;31), a day after Haniyeh&nbsp;attended Pezeshkian inauguration.

The Hamas statement said it “declares...brother leader Ismail Haniyeh a martyr," adding that he was killed “in a Zionist airstrike on his residence in Tehran after he participated in the inauguration of Iran’s new president.”

This could be the most important kill for Israel, which at the time of this report has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier vowed revenge for the October 7, 2023 terror attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian groups on Israeli soil that left at least 1,175 people dead and nearly 251 people taken hostage. The Israeli invasion of the Palestinian enclave Gaza followed, with nearly 40,000 people killed.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-leader-ismail-haniyeh-killed-in-tehran-irgc-confirms-fatal-attack-on-his-residence-745761">Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh killed in a ' treacherous Zionist raid' in Tehran: IRGC confirms fatal attack</a>

Now, a video has emerged, apparently showing Haniyeh watching the October 7 attacks and celebrating.

<h2>What the video shows</h2>

In the undated video whose location is not clear, Haniyeh, who spent most of his time in Qatar, was seen standing in front of a flat-screen TV which appears to show the Arabic channel al-Jazeera reporting on the October 7 attacks.

Moments later, he is seen organising a prayer of thanks. Haniyeh and a group of men then kneel to pray.

 
Watch the video below 
 
Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify content posted on social media.

&nbsp;

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The leader of Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, was filmed watching the attack against Israel on Al Jazeera TV, ecstatic with the ongoing terrorist attack he invites everyone present to kneel and pray to Satan Allah <a href="https://t.co/l6VXhe4NIm">pic.twitter.com/l6VXhe4NIm</a>
— LawFD🇧🇷🇮🇹🇵🇹 (@LauFelipe1) <a href="https://twitter.com/LauFelipe1/status/1710977536744690141?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Who was Ismail Haniyeh?</h2>

Before and during the war, Haniyeh was the political voice of Hamas and led several negotiations with Israel mainly held in Qatar, where he lived most of the time.

He rose to prominence from his starting days as an activist for the Palestinian cause. Born in 1962 in a Palestinian refugee camp then controlled by Egypt, the chairman of the Hamas political bureau is a graduate in Arabic literature.

Watch:&nbsp;Hamas Chief Ismail Haniyeh along with his bodyguard killed in Tehran, IRGC confirms in statement

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After the elections held in Palestinian territories in 2006, Haniyeh was named prime minister of Palestine, but he was dismissed by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas the next year. Haniyeh continued to be the leader of Palestinians in Gaza from 2006 till 2017 when the role was passed on to Yahya Sinwar.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, was assassinated reportedly by an Israeli strike in Iran, where he had gone to attend the inauguration of new president Masoud Pezeshkian.

Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, was assassinated reportedly by an Israeli strike in Iran, where he had gone to attend the inauguration of new president Masoud Pezeshkian. It is not clear when he was killed, but the confirmation from the Palestinian militant group came in the early hours of Wednesday (Jul 31), a day after Haniyeh attended Pezeshkian inauguration. The Hamas statement said it “declares...brother leader Ismail Haniyeh a martyr," adding that he was killed “in a Zionist airstrike on his residence in Tehran after he participated in the inauguration of Iran’s new president.” This could be the most important kill for Israel, which at the time of this report has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier vowed revenge for the October 7, 2023 terror attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian groups on Israeli soil that left at least 1,175 people dead and nearly 251 people taken hostage. The Israeli invasion of the Palestinian enclave Gaza followed, with nearly 40,000 people killed. Also Read: Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh killed in a ' treacherous Zionist raid' in Tehran: IRGC confirms fatal attack Now, a video has emerged, apparently showing Haniyeh watching the October 7 attacks and celebrating. What the video shows In the undated video whose location is not clear, Haniyeh, who spent most of his time in Qatar, was seen standing in front of a flat-screen TV which appears to show the Arabic channel al-Jazeera reporting on the October 7 attacks. Moments later, he is seen organising a prayer of thanks. Haniyeh and a group of men then kneel to pray. Watch the video below Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify content posted on social media. The leader of Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, was filmed watching the attack against Israel on Al Jazeera TV, ecstatic with the ongoing terrorist attack he invites everyone present to kneel and pray to Satan Allah pic.twitter.com/l6VXhe4NIm — LawFD🇧🇷🇮🇹🇵🇹 (@LauFelipe1) October 8, 2023 × Who was Ismail Haniyeh? Before and during the war, Haniyeh was the political voice of Hamas and led several negotiations with Israel mainly held in Qatar, where he lived most of the time. He rose to prominence from his starting days as an activist for the Palestinian cause. Born in 1962 in a Palestinian refugee camp then controlled by Egypt, the chairman of the Hamas political bureau is a graduate in Arabic literature. Watch: Hamas Chief Ismail Haniyeh along with his bodyguard killed in Tehran, IRGC confirms in statement After the elections held in Palestinian territories in 2006, Haniyeh was named prime minister of Palestine, but he was dismissed by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas the next year. Haniyeh continued to be the leader of Palestinians in Gaza from 2006 till 2017 when the role was passed on to Yahya Sinwar. (With inputs from agencies)

Ismail Haniyeh assassinated. A video of Hamas leader watching Oct 7 attacks on Israel resurfaces

Iran’s Islamic Paramilitary Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed in a statement early on July 31 that Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Tehran. They added that Haniyeh's residence in Tehran was “hit” early Wednesday morning, and he was killed along with a bodyguard.

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh killed in Iran along with his bodyguard

Israelis are protesting scuffling at the gates of the shadowy facility Sde Teiman Prison in Negev desert. They're opposing the detention of nine soldiers accused of torturing a Gaza prisoner. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Prisoners from Gaza war being subjected to brutal torture?

Israeli protesters break into military bases after 9 soldiers detained

IDF forces have slammed the incidents of protestors breaking into army bases, harmed the national security since the military was compelled to halt it's deliberation.

Israel-Palestine war: Israeli protestors break into military bases, IDF slams protest

The Israeli military said Monday it was holding nine soldiers for questioning following allegations of “substantial abuse” of a detainee at a shadowy facility where Israel has held Palestinian prisoners throughout the war in Gaza. Watch in for more details!

Israel detains 9 IDF soldiers over alleged abuse of a detainee at shadowy military facility

Israeli war cabinet on Monday (July 29) gave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant their approval to determine the "manner and timing" of a response to a rocket strike in the Golan Heights that killed 12 people, mostly children and teenagers. The attack by the Lebanese terror group Hezbollah by both Israel and the United States has heightened tensions in West Asia.<img alt="Disputed territory of Golan Heights | WION" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f1f1ee05-f5ed-458f-b15c-1afe32ce714e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IsraelWar.png" />

Disputed territory of Golan Heights | WION

After Hezbollah's strike in the Golan Heights, the Israeli jets targeted locations in southern Lebanon on Sunday (July 28), with additional shelling reported just after midnight on Monday (July 29). Netanyahu, who cut short his US trip to return to Israel, convened the security cabinet to formulate a response.&nbsp;

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-tensions-all-about-golan-heights-key-area-at-forefront-of-hezbollah-idf-fires-745076">Israel-Hezbollah tensions | All About Golan Heights: Key area at forefront of Hezbollah-IDF fires</a>

The attack occurred on a soccer field near a bomb shelter against a backdrop of 10 months of nearly daily rocket attacks on northern Israel and retaliatory strikes by the Israeli forces in southern Lebanon.

After Hezbollah's Golan Heights strike, Netanyahu and Gallant convened a high-level security cabinet meeting Sunday night to discuss Israel’s course of action. During the four-hour meeting, the cabinet granted Netanyahu and Gallant the authority to decide on the scale and timing of Israel’s response.

<h2>Netanyahu's war cabinet approves reprisal</h2>

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, both known for advocating more severe retaliatory measures, abstained from the vote. Reports in the Israeli media indicate that the ministers were allowed ample time to voice their opinions during the meeting, following complaints about the brief approval process for a previous strike on Yemen.

The ministers also touched on ongoing hostage negotiations with Hamas, which could reportedly be influenced by Israel's response to the Golan Heights attack. Another meeting on the hostage situation is planned.

<h2>Hezbollah's shifting stance on the Golan Heights attack</h2>

Hezbollah initially claimed responsibility for launching a Falaq rocket at an IDF base near Majdal Shams but later denied involvement following reports of civilian casualties. However, Israeli authorities insist the rocket was an Iranian-made missile fired from southern Lebanon by Hezbollah.

Also watch |&nbsp;Golan Heights strike: What would be Netanyahu's next move?

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The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) presented evidence linking shrapnel from the soccer field to an Iranian-made Falaq-1 rocket used exclusively by Hezbollah in Lebanon. The IDF detailed the rocket’s flight path, showing it was launched from the Chebaa area in southern Lebanon.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli war cabinet on Monday (July 29) gave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant their approval to determine the "manner and timing" of a response to a rocket strike in the Golan Heights that killed 12 people, mostly children and teenagers.

Israeli war cabinet on Monday (July 29) gave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant their approval to determine the "manner and timing" of a response to a rocket strike in the Golan Heights that killed 12 people, mostly children and teenagers. The attack by the Lebanese terror group Hezbollah by both Israel and the United States has heightened tensions in West Asia. Disputed territory of Golan Heights | WION After Hezbollah's strike in the Golan Heights, the Israeli jets targeted locations in southern Lebanon on Sunday (July 28), with additional shelling reported just after midnight on Monday (July 29). Netanyahu, who cut short his US trip to return to Israel, convened the security cabinet to formulate a response. Also see | Israel-Hezbollah tensions | All About Golan Heights: Key area at forefront of Hezbollah-IDF fires The attack occurred on a soccer field near a bomb shelter against a backdrop of 10 months of nearly daily rocket attacks on northern Israel and retaliatory strikes by the Israeli forces in southern Lebanon. After Hezbollah's Golan Heights strike, Netanyahu and Gallant convened a high-level security cabinet meeting Sunday night to discuss Israel’s course of action. During the four-hour meeting, the cabinet granted Netanyahu and Gallant the authority to decide on the scale and timing of Israel’s response. Netanyahu's war cabinet approves reprisal Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, both known for advocating more severe retaliatory measures, abstained from the vote. Reports in the Israeli media indicate that the ministers were allowed ample time to voice their opinions during the meeting, following complaints about the brief approval process for a previous strike on Yemen. The ministers also touched on ongoing hostage negotiations with Hamas, which could reportedly be influenced by Israel's response to the Golan Heights attack. Another meeting on the hostage situation is planned. Hezbollah's shifting stance on the Golan Heights attack Hezbollah initially claimed responsibility for launching a Falaq rocket at an IDF base near Majdal Shams but later denied involvement following reports of civilian casualties. However, Israeli authorities insist the rocket was an Iranian-made missile fired from southern Lebanon by Hezbollah. Also watch | Golan Heights strike: What would be Netanyahu's next move? × The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) presented evidence linking shrapnel from the soccer field to an Iranian-made Falaq-1 rocket used exclusively by Hezbollah in Lebanon. The IDF detailed the rocket’s flight path, showing it was launched from the Chebaa area in southern Lebanon. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel war cabinet approves reprisal for Golan Heights attack

An Israeli attack on a Gaza school left at least 31 people dead on Saturday (Jul 27). The attack, which killed many children and wounded 100 others, targeted a field hospital in the Khadija school located in the central Gaza Strip. The Israeli Army stated its fighter jets targeted members of the Palestinian militant group, Hamas.

“The death toll from Israel’s attack on a field hospital inside a school housing displaced people in Deir al-Balah in central Gaza has risen to 31,” the Gaza government media office spokesman, Ismail Al-Thawabta, was quoted as saying by the news agency Anadolu.

Earlier, the media office of the Gaza government said in a statement that “the Israeli occupation army committed a new massacre a short while ago by bombing a field hospital set up inside Khadija School in Deir al-Balah in the Central Governorate.”

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israeli forces advance in Southern Gaza

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“The occupation bombed the hospital with three missiles from fighter jets, which led to the killing of 18 people and dozens of injuries,” it added.

Gaza officials also claimed the attack happened in an area designated as a “humanitarian safe zone” in Deir al-Balah.

<h2>Israel's justification</h2>

Israeli media citing&nbsp;a statement by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that the school was being used by Hamas militants "to develop and store large quantities of weapons and as a hiding place to plan attacks on Israeli troops and civilians".

The Israeli military had earlier ordered the evacuation of the zone ahead of the planned strike. The IDF said the order came in response to a rocket attack that originated from the site.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjZjovAqseHAxVkcvUHHQWNIDMQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ancient-gaza-monastery-put-on-endangered-site-list-due-to-israel-hamas-war-744399" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ancient-gaza-monastery-put-on-endangered-site-list-due-to-israel-hamas-war-744399&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZjovAqseHAxVkcvUHHQWNIDMQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">Ancient Gaza monastery put on UNESCO endangered site list due to Israel-Hamas war</a>

Earlier in the day, officials in Gaza said that at least 14 Palestinians were killed by Israeli attacks since dawn in Khan Younis.

On Friday (Jul 26), the IDF fought against Hamas militants in the Khan Younis area and destroyed several tunnels and other infrastructure.

Gaza health authorities claim more than 39,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli strikes in the enclave since the start of the war on October 7 last year.

(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.&nbsp;

An Israeli attack on a Gaza school left at least 31 people dead on Saturday (Jul 27). The attack, which killed many children and wounded 100 others, targeted a field hospital in the Khadija school located in the central Gaza Strip.

An Israeli attack on a Gaza school left at least 31 people dead on Saturday (Jul 27). The attack, which killed many children and wounded 100 others, targeted a field hospital in the Khadija school located in the central Gaza Strip. The Israeli Army stated its fighter jets targeted members of the Palestinian militant group, Hamas. “The death toll from Israel’s attack on a field hospital inside a school housing displaced people in Deir al-Balah in central Gaza has risen to 31,” the Gaza government media office spokesman, Ismail Al-Thawabta, was quoted as saying by the news agency Anadolu. Earlier, the media office of the Gaza government said in a statement that “the Israeli occupation army committed a new massacre a short while ago by bombing a field hospital set up inside Khadija School in Deir al-Balah in the Central Governorate.” Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Israeli forces advance in Southern Gaza × “The occupation bombed the hospital with three missiles from fighter jets, which led to the killing of 18 people and dozens of injuries,” it added. Gaza officials also claimed the attack happened in an area designated as a “humanitarian safe zone” in Deir al-Balah. Israel's justification Israeli media citing a statement by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that the school was being used by Hamas militants "to develop and store large quantities of weapons and as a hiding place to plan attacks on Israeli troops and civilians". The Israeli military had earlier ordered the evacuation of the zone ahead of the planned strike. The IDF said the order came in response to a rocket attack that originated from the site. Also read: Ancient Gaza monastery put on UNESCO endangered site list due to Israel-Hamas war Earlier in the day, officials in Gaza said that at least 14 Palestinians were killed by Israeli attacks since dawn in Khan Younis. On Friday (Jul 26), the IDF fought against Hamas militants in the Khan Younis area and destroyed several tunnels and other infrastructure. Gaza health authorities claim more than 39,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli strikes in the enclave since the start of the war on October 7 last year. (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: IDF attack on school kills 31; Israel says it targeted Hamas hideout

The Israeli military told Palestinians to temporarily evacuate southern neighborhoods of Gaza's Khan Younis region so it could "forcefully operate" there, telling them to relocate to a humanitarian area in Al-Mawasi, a statement from the military said on Saturday.

The fighting, more than nine months since the start of Israel's invasion of Gaza following the Oct. 7 attack, underlined the difficulty the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) has in eliminating fighters of the militant Islamist group amid continued resistance.

On Friday the military said troops battled Palestinian fighters in Khan Younis, a city in the south of the enclave, and destroyed tunnels and other infrastructure, as they sought to suppress small militant units that have continued to hit troops with mortar fire.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/change-in-policy-towards-israel-uk-drops-its-plan-to-challenge-netanyahus-arrest-744563">Change in policy towards Israel? UK drops its plan to challenge Netanyahu's arrest warrant</a>

Palestinian official media said that at least 14 Palestinians were killed by Israeli attacks in Khan Younis since dawn on Saturday and that their bodies were brought to Nasser Medical Complex.

More than 39,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli strikes in the enclave, according to Gaza health authorities, who do not distinguish between fighters and non-combatants.

Israeli officials estimate that some 14,000 fighters from militant groups including Hamas and Islamic Jihad have been killed or taken prisoner, out of a force they estimated to number more than 25,000 at the start of the war.

The military said on Saturday its calls to evacuate were communicated to the population via several mediums in order to mitigate danger to civilians.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-netanyahu-slams-icc-after-chief-prosecutor-seeks-arrest-warrants-for-israeli-pm-defence-minister-723681" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;Biden, Netanyahu slam ICC after chief prosecutor seeks arrest warrants for Israeli PM, defence minister</a>

U.N. and humanitarian officials accuse Israel of using disproportionate force in the war, which it denies.

Israel's military blames Hamas for putting civilians in harms way, accusing it of operating within densely populated neighbourhoods, schools and hospitals as cover, something the group denies.

Around 1,200 people were killed and 250 were taken hostage in the Oct. 7 Hamas-led raid on southern Israel, according to Israeli tallies.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Israeli military told Palestinians to temporarily evacuate southern neighborhoods of Gaza's Khan Younis region so it could "forcefully operate" there, telling them to relocate to a humanitarian area in Al-Mawasi, a statement from the military said on Saturday.

The Israeli military told Palestinians to temporarily evacuate southern neighborhoods of Gaza's Khan Younis region so it could "forcefully operate" there, telling them to relocate to a humanitarian area in Al-Mawasi, a statement from the military said on Saturday. The fighting, more than nine months since the start of Israel's invasion of Gaza following the Oct. 7 attack, underlined the difficulty the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) has in eliminating fighters of the militant Islamist group amid continued resistance. On Friday the military said troops battled Palestinian fighters in Khan Younis, a city in the south of the enclave, and destroyed tunnels and other infrastructure, as they sought to suppress small militant units that have continued to hit troops with mortar fire. Also read: Change in policy towards Israel? UK drops its plan to challenge Netanyahu's arrest warrant Palestinian official media said that at least 14 Palestinians were killed by Israeli attacks in Khan Younis since dawn on Saturday and that their bodies were brought to Nasser Medical Complex. More than 39,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli strikes in the enclave, according to Gaza health authorities, who do not distinguish between fighters and non-combatants. Israeli officials estimate that some 14,000 fighters from militant groups including Hamas and Islamic Jihad have been killed or taken prisoner, out of a force they estimated to number more than 25,000 at the start of the war. The military said on Saturday its calls to evacuate were communicated to the population via several mediums in order to mitigate danger to civilians. Also read | Biden, Netanyahu slam ICC after chief prosecutor seeks arrest warrants for Israeli PM, defence minister U.N. and humanitarian officials accuse Israel of using disproportionate force in the war, which it denies. Israel's military blames Hamas for putting civilians in harms way, accusing it of operating within densely populated neighbourhoods, schools and hospitals as cover, something the group denies. Around 1,200 people were killed and 250 were taken hostage in the Oct. 7 Hamas-led raid on southern Israel, according to Israeli tallies. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israel tells Gazans to temporarily evacuate Southern Khan Younis areas

W.H.O has raised alarm over sanitary conditions in Gaza. While Israel is vaccinating its troops against the disease, conditions remain dire for Palestinians in Gaza.

WHO: Polio might spread beyond Gaza borders | The West Asia Post

Headlines of the hour: - IDF recovers bodies of five hostages - Israeli team postpones Qatar talks - Obama to endorse VP Kamala Harris soon? - UK: Outrage over police beating men - South Korea: Balloons disrupt flights - Philippine-flagged tanker capsizes - Typhoon Gaemi: Taiwan capital remains shut - India: 4 dead in Pune amid heavy rains

Obama to endorse VP Kamala Harris soon? | Israeli team postpones Qatar talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivers his fourth address to a joint session of the US Congress on Wednesday. Defending Israeli actions in Gaza, he attempted to drump up continued support for his country's war against Gaza.

Israel Prime Minister Netanyahu addresses US Congress, thanks American people for support

US: Netanyahu's fourth speech at US Congress, defends Israel's war in Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered his fourth address to a joint session of the US Congress on Wednesday. Defending Israeli actions in Gaza, he attempted to drum up continued support for his country's war against Gaza. Watch in for more details!

Netanyahu Addresses US Congress: Israeli PM calls Israel a loyal & steadfast US ally

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the Israel-Hamas war as a "clash between barbarism and civilisation" in an address to the United States Congress as over a thousand demonstrators protested outside the US Capitol against Israeli military operations in Gaza.&nbsp;

"This is a fight between those glorify death and those who sanctify life," the Israeli PM&nbsp;told the US Congress in an address boycotted by top Democrats but euphorically welcomed by the Republicans.&nbsp;

Netanyahu appealed for his country and the United States to stand together in a landmark speech aimed at rallying support in a US Congress split over his military campaign in Gaza.

"For the forces of civilisation to triumph, America and Israel must stand together," the Israeli PM&nbsp;said, after arriving to applause and cheers from Republicans and a much more muted reception from Democrats.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arrest-war-criminal-protests-break-out-outside-us-congress-ahead-of-netanyahus-address-743885">‘Arrest war criminal’: Protests break out as Israeli PM Netanyahu addresses US Congress</a>

Iran is "virtually behind all the terrorism" in the Middle East, Netanyahu claimed&nbsp;and said&nbsp;the US is the "guardian of western civilization" that stands in the way of Iran's "maniacal plans".

The Israeli leader then takes&nbsp;members of the US Congress through the history of Iran and its relationship with the US since 1979, and says that Tehran "understands that to truly challenge America, it must first conquer the Middle East" by using "its many proxies, including the Houthis, Hezbollah and Hamas".&nbsp;

Netanyahu said Israel is standing in the way of Iran's ambitions in the region.&nbsp;

"When we fight Iran, we’re fighting the most radical and murderous enemy of the United States of America," he said.

Netanyahu said Israel is committed to returning its citizens to northern Israel and it would "prefer to achieve this diplomatically".&nbsp;

But Israel "will do whatever it must do to restore security to our northern border and return our people safely to their homes”, he said.&nbsp;

Netanyahu said that Israel will achieve "total victory" against Hamas&nbsp;and that it will settle for "nothing less".

Total victory, Netanyahu said, means that Israel will fight until it destroys Hamas’ military capability, ends its rule in Gaza, and frees all the hostages from the Palestinian militant group's&nbsp;captivity.&nbsp;

Netanyahu, while referring to the post-war Gaza said, that his vision for the blockaded Palestinian enclave is that of a "demilitarised and de-radicalized Gaza."

"Israel does not seek to settle Gaza. But for the foreseeable future, we must retain overriding security control there to prevent the resurgence of terror, to ensure that Gaza never again poses a threat to Israel," the Israeli PM&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the Israel-Hamas war as a "clash between barbarism and civilisation" in an address to the United States Congress as over a thousand demonstrators protested outside the US Capitol against Israeli military operations in Gaza.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the Israel-Hamas war as a "clash between barbarism and civilisation" in an address to the United States Congress as over a thousand demonstrators protested outside the US Capitol against Israeli military operations in Gaza. "This is a fight between those glorify death and those who sanctify life," the Israeli PM told the US Congress in an address boycotted by top Democrats but euphorically welcomed by the Republicans. Netanyahu appealed for his country and the United States to stand together in a landmark speech aimed at rallying support in a US Congress split over his military campaign in Gaza. "For the forces of civilisation to triumph, America and Israel must stand together," the Israeli PM said, after arriving to applause and cheers from Republicans and a much more muted reception from Democrats. Also read | ‘Arrest war criminal’: Protests break out as Israeli PM Netanyahu addresses US Congress Iran is "virtually behind all the terrorism" in the Middle East, Netanyahu claimed and said the US is the "guardian of western civilization" that stands in the way of Iran's "maniacal plans". The Israeli leader then takes members of the US Congress through the history of Iran and its relationship with the US since 1979, and says that Tehran "understands that to truly challenge America, it must first conquer the Middle East" by using "its many proxies, including the Houthis, Hezbollah and Hamas". Netanyahu said Israel is standing in the way of Iran's ambitions in the region. "When we fight Iran, we’re fighting the most radical and murderous enemy of the United States of America," he said. Netanyahu said Israel is committed to returning its citizens to northern Israel and it would "prefer to achieve this diplomatically". But Israel "will do whatever it must do to restore security to our northern border and return our people safely to their homes”, he said. Netanyahu said that Israel will achieve "total victory" against Hamas and that it will settle for "nothing less". Total victory, Netanyahu said, means that Israel will fight until it destroys Hamas’ military capability, ends its rule in Gaza, and frees all the hostages from the Palestinian militant group's captivity. Netanyahu, while referring to the post-war Gaza said, that his vision for the blockaded Palestinian enclave is that of a "demilitarised and de-radicalized Gaza." "Israel does not seek to settle Gaza. But for the foreseeable future, we must retain overriding security control there to prevent the resurgence of terror, to ensure that Gaza never again poses a threat to Israel," the Israeli PM said. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu tells joint session of US Congress Israel 'will win' Gaza war

Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump will host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday at his resort in Palm Beach, Florida, Trump said on Tuesday, a sign the two men are looking to improve ties. Watch in for more details!

Netanyahu in Washington: Donald Trump to meet Israeli PM Netanyahu in Florida on Friday

Amid pressure from Egypt, Qatar and the US, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that a cease-fire deal might be taking shape. The Israeli leader is in Washington DC and is due to address the Congress and meet President Joe Biden and VP Kamala Harris. The deal, if struck, would see the release of dozens of hostages still held by Palestinian militant group Hamas.

As per reports, a team from Netanyahu's office will be dispatched Thursday (Jul 25) to hold talks.

During a meeting with families of hostages, Netanyahu said, "The conditions are undoubtedly ripening. This is a good sign."

Earlier on Friday (Jul 19), US Secretary of state Anthony Blinken expressed hope that negotiators were "driving toward the goal line.

It comes as the Israeli military, in the latest move, ordered the evacuation of a part of the Gaza Strip it earlier designated as a humanitarian zone. The death toll in Palestine since the outbreak of the war nine months ago has now topped 39,000, as per Hamas claims.

On Tuesday (Jul 23), Hamas and the Palestinian Health Ministry said that Israeli forces had raided a Palestinian city in the occupied West Bank killing at least five people.

<h2>Hostages held by Gaza</h2>

As of now, 120 hostages are still held by Hamas. Of these 120, about a third are already dead and approximately 85 are alive.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjx4qPikr2HAxWkSmwGHT-lAtgQxfQBKAB6BAgUEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/70-killed-in-israeli-attacks-after-idf-orders-gaza-humanitarian-zone-evacuation-743218" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/70-killed-in-israeli-attacks-after-idf-orders-gaza-humanitarian-zone-evacuation-743218&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjx4qPikr2HAxWkSmwGHT-lAtgQxfQBKAB6BAgUEAE">Scores killed in Israeli strikes as IDF orders evacuation of Gaza humanitarian zone</a>

The Israeli military announced Monday that two more hostages had died in captivity.

<h2>Fatah-Hamas break deadlock</h2>

Meanwhile, in a major development regarding Palestinian leadership, the two factions of Hamas and Fatah signed a declaration in Beijing, Chinese state media revealed Tuesday.

The move may potentially resolve the deep divide between the two sides amid the war in Gaza.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjx4qPikr2HAxWkSmwGHT-lAtgQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-high-risk-of-polio-virus-spreading-across-war-ravaged-gaza-strip-743450" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-high-risk-of-polio-virus-spreading-across-war-ravaged-gaza-strip-743450&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjx4qPikr2HAxWkSmwGHT-lAtgQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">WHO says high risk of polio virus spreading across war-ravaged Gaza Strip</a>

Previous such efforts didn't yield any results. For instance, a similar deal was struck back in 2011 but it soon collapsed.

But the reconciliation between the two factions is significant, given Israel's vehement opposition to any role by Hamas in governing Gaza. It has even rejected calls from the Fatah-dominated Palestinian Authority to run the besieged territory.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid pressure from Egypt, Qatar and the US, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that a cease-fire deal might be taking shape. The Israeli leader is in Washington DC and is due to address the Congress and meet President Joe Biden and VP Kamala Harris.

Amid pressure from Egypt, Qatar and the US, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that a cease-fire deal might be taking shape. The Israeli leader is in Washington DC and is due to address the Congress and meet President Joe Biden and VP Kamala Harris. The deal, if struck, would see the release of dozens of hostages still held by Palestinian militant group Hamas. As per reports, a team from Netanyahu's office will be dispatched Thursday (Jul 25) to hold talks. During a meeting with families of hostages, Netanyahu said, "The conditions are undoubtedly ripening. This is a good sign." Earlier on Friday (Jul 19), US Secretary of state Anthony Blinken expressed hope that negotiators were "driving toward the goal line. It comes as the Israeli military, in the latest move, ordered the evacuation of a part of the Gaza Strip it earlier designated as a humanitarian zone. The death toll in Palestine since the outbreak of the war nine months ago has now topped 39,000, as per Hamas claims. On Tuesday (Jul 23), Hamas and the Palestinian Health Ministry said that Israeli forces had raided a Palestinian city in the occupied West Bank killing at least five people. Hostages held by Gaza As of now, 120 hostages are still held by Hamas. Of these 120, about a third are already dead and approximately 85 are alive. Also read: Scores killed in Israeli strikes as IDF orders evacuation of Gaza humanitarian zone The Israeli military announced Monday that two more hostages had died in captivity. Fatah-Hamas break deadlock Meanwhile, in a major development regarding Palestinian leadership, the two factions of Hamas and Fatah signed a declaration in Beijing, Chinese state media revealed Tuesday. The move may potentially resolve the deep divide between the two sides amid the war in Gaza. Also read: WHO says high risk of polio virus spreading across war-ravaged Gaza Strip Previous such efforts didn't yield any results. For instance, a similar deal was struck back in 2011 but it soon collapsed. But the reconciliation between the two factions is significant, given Israel's vehement opposition to any role by Hamas in governing Gaza. It has even rejected calls from the Fatah-dominated Palestinian Authority to run the besieged territory. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: 'This is good sign,' Netanyahu signals cease-fire deal on the horizon

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived Monday for a scheduled visit to Washington, one day after President Biden announced he would not be running for a second term and amid Israel's ongoing war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Biden and Harris set to meet Netanyahu in Washington

As Netanyahu faces pressure to agree to a truce and hostage release deal, what do Israelis feel about his handling of the hostage crisis? What's the latest on the war? Molly Gambhir tells you more!

Gravitas: Netanyahu facing pressure to agree to truce and hostage release deal

Israeli tank shelling and air strikes killed at least 39 Palestinians near Khan Younis after issuing new orders for people to leave some neighbourhoods in the area. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Hundreds flee parts of Muwasi in Khan Younis amid rocket fire

Israel has announced it will go to the negotiating table for hostages for ceasefire deal with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordering a delegation to be dispatched for the talks due on Thursday. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war | Netanyahu says Israel will send delegation for hostage deal talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered a delegation charged with negotiating a hostage deal with Hamas to be dispatched on Thursday. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu says Israel will send delegation for hostage deal talks

The Israeli military said it intercepted a missile fired from Yemen early Sunday, hours after Israeli warplanes struck several Houthi targets in the Arabian Peninsula country. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Israel shoots down missile fired from Yemen after striking Houthis

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Israel-Palestine war: Israeli protestors break into military bases, IDF slams protest

Israel detains 9 IDF soldiers over alleged abuse of a detainee at shadowy military facility

Israel war cabinet approves reprisal for Golan Heights attack

Gaza war: IDF attack on school kills 31; Israel says it targeted Hamas hideout

Israel tells Gazans to temporarily evacuate Southern Khan Younis areas

WHO: Polio might spread beyond Gaza borders | The West Asia Post

Obama to endorse VP Kamala Harris soon? | Israeli team postpones Qatar talks

Israel Prime Minister Netanyahu addresses US Congress, thanks American people for support

US: Netanyahu's fourth speech at US Congress, defends Israel's war in Gaza

Netanyahu Addresses US Congress: Israeli PM calls Israel a loyal & steadfast US ally

Netanyahu tells joint session of US Congress Israel 'will win' Gaza war