On Wednesday the US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken began his sixth West Asia tour since the onset of the Gaza War by holding talks in Saudi Arabia. On the agenda are meetings with Arab foreign ministers and a top Palestinian officials in Egypt...Watch in for more details!

US' Antony Blinken meets Saudi Crown Prince in Jeddah

The Israeli army launched on Monday (local time) an operation around Gaza's largest hospital, Al-Shifa, with witnesses reporting air strikes on the devastated neighbourhood where it is located.

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli military troops raid Gaza's Al Shifa hospital

<p>US President Joe Biden&nbsp;in a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu assured him of Washington's state of non-interference in Israel's domestic affairs, two&nbsp;sources familiar with the matter told Axios publication.</p>

<p>The dialogue unfolded amidst escalating concerns within Netanyahu's camp over the Biden administration's perceived attempts to undermine his leadership.</p>

<p>The Israeli Prime Minister's unease with Biden heightened following a visit to Washington by Minister Benny Gantz, a key political rival.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden speaks with Israeli PM Netanyahu amid strained relations</strong></p>

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<p>President Biden also questioned Netanyahu's policies' efficacy for Israel&nbsp;during an MSNBC interview.</p>

<p>Moreover, the release of the US intelligence community's annual assessment casting doubt on Netanyahu's political future further expanded Netanyahu's worries.</p>

<h2><strong>The Chuck Schumer factor</strong></h2>

<p>Friction escalated with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's criticism of Netanyahu's governance who&nbsp;advocated for fresh elections in Israel. Biden&nbsp;subsequently aligned with Schumer's stance.</p>

<p>Netanyahu's Likud Party vehemently denounced external interference in Israel's political landscape.</p>

<p>"Israel is not a banana republic but an independent and proud democracy that elected Prime Minister Netanyahu," the ruling Likud Party said in a statement while&nbsp;accusing Schumer of undermining a democratically elected government.</p>

<p>Key&nbsp;polls in Israel suggest growing support for early elections in the country, a potential advantage for Benny Gantz over PM Netanyahu.</p>

<p>Netanyahu's critics accuse&nbsp;him of prolonging the Gaza conflict for personal political gain, a claim vehemently refuted by the Israeli PM.</p>

<p>During the conversation on Monday (March 18), Netanyahu expressed concerns over Schumer's remarks and Biden's apparent endorsement, denouncing them as unwarranted interference. Biden, in response, reiterated his administration's commitment to non-interference, seeking to reassure Netanyahu of his intentions.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Tensions over Netanyahu's Rafah assault plan</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Netanyahu told lawmakers on Tuesday (March 19) that he had made it "supremely clear" to the US president "that we are determined to complete the elimination of these battalions in Rafah, and there’s no way to do that except by going in on the ground".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-rules-out-support-for-israels-rafah-assault-plan-amid-gaza-truce-talks-701657">US rules out support for Israel PM Netayahu's Rafah assault plan amid Gaza truce talks</a></strong></p>

<p>Netanyahu has been regularly talking about a Rafah assault&nbsp;where about a million displaced Palestinians are living in camp, but the United States has ruled out support for Netanyahu's Rafah assault plan which the Israeli PM maintains, is necessary to decimate Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US President Joe Biden in a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu assured him of Washington's state of non-interference in Israel's domestic affairs, two sources familiar with the matter told Axios publication.

US President Joe Biden in a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu assured him of Washington's state of non-interference in Israel's domestic affairs, two sources familiar with the matter told Axios publication. The dialogue unfolded amidst escalating concerns within Netanyahu's camp over the Biden administration's perceived attempts to undermine his leadership. The Israeli Prime Minister's unease with Biden heightened following a visit to Washington by Minister Benny Gantz, a key political rival. Also watch | US President Joe Biden speaks with Israeli PM Netanyahu amid strained relations × President Biden also questioned Netanyahu's policies' efficacy for Israel during an MSNBC interview. Moreover, the release of the US intelligence community's annual assessment casting doubt on Netanyahu's political future further expanded Netanyahu's worries. The Chuck Schumer factor Friction escalated with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's criticism of Netanyahu's governance who advocated for fresh elections in Israel. Biden subsequently aligned with Schumer's stance. Netanyahu's Likud Party vehemently denounced external interference in Israel's political landscape. "Israel is not a banana republic but an independent and proud democracy that elected Prime Minister Netanyahu," the ruling Likud Party said in a statement while accusing Schumer of undermining a democratically elected government. Key polls in Israel suggest growing support for early elections in the country, a potential advantage for Benny Gantz over PM Netanyahu. Netanyahu's critics accuse him of prolonging the Gaza conflict for personal political gain, a claim vehemently refuted by the Israeli PM. During the conversation on Monday (March 18), Netanyahu expressed concerns over Schumer's remarks and Biden's apparent endorsement, denouncing them as unwarranted interference. Biden, in response, reiterated his administration's commitment to non-interference, seeking to reassure Netanyahu of his intentions. Tensions over Netanyahu's Rafah assault plan Meanwhile, Netanyahu told lawmakers on Tuesday (March 19) that he had made it "supremely clear" to the US president "that we are determined to complete the elimination of these battalions in Rafah, and there’s no way to do that except by going in on the ground". Also read | US rules out support for Israel PM Netayahu's Rafah assault plan amid Gaza truce talks Netanyahu has been regularly talking about a Rafah assault where about a million displaced Palestinians are living in camp, but the United States has ruled out support for Netanyahu's Rafah assault plan which the Israeli PM maintains, is necessary to decimate Hamas. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden assures Netanyahu US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan

The Israeli military says it has taken control of al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City in what it called an operation to "thwart terrorist activity". Watch in for more details!

Israel launches overnight raid on Gaza's Al-Shifa hospital

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spurned a plea from Joe Biden to call off a planned ground assault of Rafah, the last refuge in Gaza for more than a million displaced people, where Israel believes Hamas fighters are holed up.

Israel War: Netanyahu spurns Biden's plea to call off Rafah assault

<p><strong>Israel-Hamas war</strong>: The fighting between Israeli troops and Hamas militants continued around Gaza's strategically located Al-Shifa hospital after Israel&nbsp;claimed to have taken control of the medical facility on Tuesday (March 19) following an early morning raid on Monday. As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to press on for an assault on Rafah, US President Joe Biden warned that an Israeli operation in Rafah would deepen anarchy in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today, I spoke again with Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding the latest developments in Israel and Gaza.<br />
<br />
I continued to affirm that Israel has a right to go after Hamas, a group of terrorists responsible for the worst massacre of the Jewish people since the Holocaust.<br />
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And I… <a href="https://t.co/pRf9b0VE91">pic.twitter.com/pRf9b0VE91</a></p>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1769890646049853599?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters in a routine briefing that Israel and the United States&nbsp;would have a comprehensive discussion on the way forward in Gaza amid a raging humanitarian crisis due to&nbsp;six months of fierce state of war that has killed over 32,000 Palestinians so far.</p>

<p>However, the United States expressed discontentment over Israel's purported lack of clarity over the situation in Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel launches overnight raid on Gaza's Al-Shifa hospital</strong></p>

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<p>"Israel cleared Shifa once. Hamas came back into Shifa, which raises questions about how to ensure a sustainable campaign against Hamas so that it cannot regenerate, cannot retake territory,"&nbsp;Sullivan said during the press briefing.</p>

<p>Sullivan also repeated the US argument that a major ground operation in Rafah would be a mistake, adding: "It would lead to more innocent civilian deaths, worsen the already dire humanitarian crisis, deepen the anarchy in Gaza, and further isolate Israel internationally."</p>

<p>He added: "A military plan cannot succeed without an integrated humanitarian plan and political plan."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-speaks-to-netanyahu-discusses-latest-developments-in-gaza-and-humanitarian-aid-701619">Biden speaks to Netanyahu, discusses latest developments in Gaza and humanitarian aid</a></strong></p>

<p>"From our perspective, it is connecting Israel’s objective to a sustainable strategy. That is the final thing we need to focus on right now, rather than have Israel go smash into Rafah. That is what the president talked to the prime minister about today," Sullivan said.</p>

<h2><strong>Gaza truce is 'still possible': United States</strong></h2>

<p>The US National Security Adviser&nbsp;said that Hamas has added new conditions to the latest hostage deal framework.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Hamas has put a proposal on the table — this is after Israel, working with Qatar, Egypt and the United States, had indicated a willingness to move forward on a six-week ceasefire in return for the release of a number of hostages, leading to further phases from there, and Hamas had given us nothing for quite some time,"&nbsp;Sullivan said, repeating that there could be a deal immediately if Hamas would just agree to release roughly 40 Israeli female, elderly, and wounded hostages.</p>

<p>Instead, Hamas "put a proposal on the table where they’ve added a series of other conditions… The Israeli government has responded by saying they can’t just accept that. They regard some of those conditions as going too far, but that’s what a negotiation is about," the US national security adviser continued while&nbsp;noting that negotiating teams are in Qatar trying to secure a deal.</p>

<p>"We believe that those discussions are very alive, that a deal is possible," Sullivan said.</p>


Israel-Hamas war: The fighting between Israeli troops and Hamas militants continued around Gaza's strategically located Al-Shifa hospital after Israel claimed to have taken control of the medical facility on Tuesday (March 19) following an early morning raid on Monday.

Israel-Hamas war: The fighting between Israeli troops and Hamas militants continued around Gaza's strategically located Al-Shifa hospital after Israel claimed to have taken control of the medical facility on Tuesday (March 19) following an early morning raid on Monday. As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to press on for an assault on Rafah, US President Joe Biden warned that an Israeli operation in Rafah would deepen anarchy in Gaza. Today, I spoke again with Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding the latest developments in Israel and Gaza. I continued to affirm that Israel has a right to go after Hamas, a group of terrorists responsible for the worst massacre of the Jewish people since the Holocaust. And I… pic.twitter.com/pRf9b0VE91 — President Biden (@POTUS) March 19, 2024 × The US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters in a routine briefing that Israel and the United States would have a comprehensive discussion on the way forward in Gaza amid a raging humanitarian crisis due to six months of fierce state of war that has killed over 32,000 Palestinians so far. However, the United States expressed discontentment over Israel's purported lack of clarity over the situation in Gaza. Also watch | Israel launches overnight raid on Gaza's Al-Shifa hospital × "Israel cleared Shifa once. Hamas came back into Shifa, which raises questions about how to ensure a sustainable campaign against Hamas so that it cannot regenerate, cannot retake territory," Sullivan said during the press briefing. Sullivan also repeated the US argument that a major ground operation in Rafah would be a mistake, adding: "It would lead to more innocent civilian deaths, worsen the already dire humanitarian crisis, deepen the anarchy in Gaza, and further isolate Israel internationally." He added: "A military plan cannot succeed without an integrated humanitarian plan and political plan." Also read | Biden speaks to Netanyahu, discusses latest developments in Gaza and humanitarian aid "From our perspective, it is connecting Israel’s objective to a sustainable strategy. That is the final thing we need to focus on right now, rather than have Israel go smash into Rafah. That is what the president talked to the prime minister about today," Sullivan said. Gaza truce is 'still possible': United States The US National Security Adviser said that Hamas has added new conditions to the latest hostage deal framework. "Hamas has put a proposal on the table — this is after Israel, working with Qatar, Egypt and the United States, had indicated a willingness to move forward on a six-week ceasefire in return for the release of a number of hostages, leading to further phases from there, and Hamas had given us nothing for quite some time," Sullivan said, repeating that there could be a deal immediately if Hamas would just agree to release roughly 40 Israeli female, elderly, and wounded hostages. Instead, Hamas "put a proposal on the table where they’ve added a series of other conditions… The Israeli government has responded by saying they can’t just accept that. They regard some of those conditions as going too far, but that’s what a negotiation is about," the US national security adviser continued while noting that negotiating teams are in Qatar trying to secure a deal. "We believe that those discussions are very alive, that a deal is possible," Sullivan said.

US rules out support for Israel PM Netayahu's Rafah assault plan amid Gaza truce talks

On Monday Benjamin Netanyahu agreed to send a team of Israeli officials to Washington to discuss with the Biden Administration officials a prospective Rafah operation. The White House has been extremely skeptical of Netanyahu's plan to carry out an operation in Rafah. Watch to know more!

Israel war: White House says major ground operation in Rafah would be a mistake

The UN food agency says "famine is imminent" in northern Gaza, where an estimated 70% of the population faces catastrophic hunger. Watch in for more details!

Israel War: Famine imminent in north Gaza, an 'unprecedented' crisis, says UN

Israel War: UN agency says 'famine is imminent' in northern Gaza

<p>Israeli negotiators are likely to travel to Qatar on Sunday (March 17) as part of renewed efforts to broker a temporary ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The move comes following Hamas' decision to abandon key ceasefire demands in what is being seen as a potential shift in the dynamics due to recent setbacks faced by the militant organisation in the blockaded Palestinian enclave.</p>

<h2><strong>How is Hamas stepping back from its previous&nbsp;demands?</strong></h2>

<p>While Hamas continues to demand the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails in exchange for Israeli hostages, the organisation has softened its stance by dropping its insistence on a permanent ceasefire.</p>

<p>It has reportedly indicated a willingness to accept a 40-day initial pause in hostilities.</p>

<h2><strong>Gaza war: Hamas faces multiple setbacks</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In recent days, Hamas raised calls for widespread protests during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which largely went unanswered. Additionally, tensions between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority (PA) aggravated after the latter appointed a new prime minister without consultation with Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, Hamas has possibly lost Marwan Issa, its deputy military leader in Gaza.</p>

<p>Hamas's criticism of the Palestinian Authority for unilaterally appointing the&nbsp;prime minister underscores the deepening divisions within the Palestinian leadership. Fatah, the ruling party in the Palestinian Authority, has condemned Hamas's actions concerning the October 7 attack in southern Israel and has accused it of exacerbating tensions and neglecting national unity.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-verifying-if-hamas-military-leader-marwan-issa-was-killed-in-gaza-699109">Israel ‘verifying’ if Hamas military leader Marwan Issa was killed in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<p>Analysts note that Fatah's criticism resonates with many Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, highlighting growing discontent with Hamas's leadership.</p>

<p>Health officials in Gaza reported a total death toll of 31,490 since the beginning of the Israeli offensive, with a majority being women and children.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israel to send delegation to Qatar for fresh truce talks</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, the UN children’s aid agency, UNICEF, reported on Saturday (March 16) that acute malnutrition among babies in northern Gaza had doubled in February and that now one in three children under two years of age suffer&nbsp;from acute malnutrition, a staggering escalation from 15.6 per cent in January.</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>


Israeli negotiators are likely to travel to Qatar on Sunday (March 17) as part of renewed efforts to broker a temporary ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Israeli negotiators are likely to travel to Qatar on Sunday (March 17) as part of renewed efforts to broker a temporary ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The move comes following Hamas' decision to abandon key ceasefire demands in what is being seen as a potential shift in the dynamics due to recent setbacks faced by the militant organisation in the blockaded Palestinian enclave. How is Hamas stepping back from its previous demands? While Hamas continues to demand the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails in exchange for Israeli hostages, the organisation has softened its stance by dropping its insistence on a permanent ceasefire. It has reportedly indicated a willingness to accept a 40-day initial pause in hostilities. Gaza war: Hamas faces multiple setbacks In recent days, Hamas raised calls for widespread protests during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which largely went unanswered. Additionally, tensions between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority (PA) aggravated after the latter appointed a new prime minister without consultation with Hamas. Furthermore, Hamas has possibly lost Marwan Issa, its deputy military leader in Gaza. Hamas's criticism of the Palestinian Authority for unilaterally appointing the prime minister underscores the deepening divisions within the Palestinian leadership. Fatah, the ruling party in the Palestinian Authority, has condemned Hamas's actions concerning the October 7 attack in southern Israel and has accused it of exacerbating tensions and neglecting national unity. Also read | Israel ‘verifying’ if Hamas military leader Marwan Issa was killed in Gaza Analysts note that Fatah's criticism resonates with many Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, highlighting growing discontent with Hamas's leadership. Health officials in Gaza reported a total death toll of 31,490 since the beginning of the Israeli offensive, with a majority being women and children. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israel to send delegation to Qatar for fresh truce talks × Meanwhile, the UN children’s aid agency, UNICEF, reported on Saturday (March 16) that acute malnutrition among babies in northern Gaza had doubled in February and that now one in three children under two years of age suffer from acute malnutrition, a staggering escalation from 15.6 per cent in January. 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: Israel to take part in ceasefire talks in Qatar after Hamas steps back on key demands

The head of the UN Palestinian refugee agency said on Monday the hunger in the Gaza Strip is “man-made”. He also added that the crisis can be resolved and reversed through proper political will.

Israel War: UNRWA Chief says hunger in Gaza is 'man-made'

US and Jordanian aircraft dropped food supplies to Palestinian civilians trapped in the Gaza Strip in a joint humanitarian aid operation. Watch in for more details!

Israel War: Aid delivery continues in besieged Gaza, US-Jordan jointly airdrop aid

Israel War: US, Jordan conduct joint aid airdrop into war-torn Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly criticized the United States for increasing scrutiny of his leadership during the ongoing conflict with Hamas and labelled calls for a new election as "wholly inappropriate."

Israel War: Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu slams US criticism amid Hamas conflict

Gaza awaits elusive truce as Israeli ground offensive continues. Meanwhile, Hamas issues new ceasefire proposal. Watch in to know what is next in the war?

Gazans hold Friday prayers between rubble

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called on Israel to hold new elections saying that he believes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has lost his way and is an obstacle to peace in the region (a growing humanitarian crisis that is taking place inside Gaza). Schumer the Jewish majority leader in the Senate and the highest ranking Jewish official in the United States strongly criticized Netanyahu in a 40 minute speech on the senate floor. Watch to know more!

Israel war: Chuck Schumer says Netanyahu is an obstacle to peace in the region

<p>In Gaza, the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has asserted that starvation is being employed as a tool of warfare. Josep Borrell characterised the absence of aid reaching the region as a calamity deliberately caused by human actions.</p>

<p>Despite a Spanish ship transporting crucial food supplies from Cyprus to Gaza, the UN underscores that this effort cannot fully replace land deliveries.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a attributionsrc="" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beaten-attacked-by-dogs-raped-un-report-alleges-palestinians-suffering-horrible-abuse-in-israeli-detention-697167" target="_parent" title="Beaten, attacked by dogs, raped: UN report alleges Palestinians suffering horrible abuse in Israeli detention">Beaten, attacked by dogs, raped: UN report alleges Palestinians suffering horrible abuse in Israeli detention</a></p>

<p>In the face of Israeli restrictions on road access, aid agencies report that only a fraction of the necessary aid is reaching its destination. To address this, alternative routes such as sea and air drops are being explored and used now.<br />
<br />
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has, meanwhile, vowed to press on with an offensive in southern Gaza.</p>

<p>The UN World Food Programme recently used a land route to deliver aid to northern Gaza, with ongoing efforts to scale up these deliveries.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, a UN World Food Programme convoy used a land route to deliver aid to northern Gaza for the first time in three weeks.</p>

<p>The trucks used an Israeli military road running along Gaza's border fence, Jamie McGoldrick, UN aid coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, told Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-finds-credible-evidence-of-sexual-violence-including-gang-rapes-during-in-hamas-attack-on-israel-696611">UN finds 'credible' evidence of sexual violence, including gang rapes, during Hamas attack on Israel</a></strong></p>

<p>Enough food for 25,000 people was delivered to Gaza City, with WFP spokesperson Shaza Moghraby saying they were hoping to scale up deliveries, but need access to be regular and consistent.</p>

<p>Israel says it is not to blame for Gaza's food shortages as it is allowing aid through two crossings in the south.</p>

<p>Borrell, in his address to the UN Security Council, emphasised that the humanitarian crisis is a consequence of the lack of viable land routes.</p>

<p>The UN has issued a warning that a significant portion of Gaza's population is teetering on the brink of famine. Tragically, at least 27 people, including many children, have succumbed to malnutrition and dehydration in the past two weeks, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry.</p>

<p>In response to this dire situation, the EU is actively working to facilitate humanitarian assistance. Borrell drew parallels between the use of starvation as a weapon in Gaza and similar condemnations in Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-airdrops-fresh-round-of-humanitarian-aid-to-gaza-36800-meals-delivered-697053">Israel-Hamas war: US airdrops fresh round of humanitarian aid to Gaza; 36,800 meals delivered</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the UN continues its mediation efforts while Israel's military campaign in Gaza persists.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In Gaza, the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has asserted that starvation is being employed as a tool of warfare. Josep Borrell characterised the absence of aid reaching the region as a calamity deliberately caused by human actions.

In Gaza, the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has asserted that starvation is being employed as a tool of warfare. Josep Borrell characterised the absence of aid reaching the region as a calamity deliberately caused by human actions. Despite a Spanish ship transporting crucial food supplies from Cyprus to Gaza, the UN underscores that this effort cannot fully replace land deliveries. Also read: Beaten, attacked by dogs, raped: UN report alleges Palestinians suffering horrible abuse in Israeli detention In the face of Israeli restrictions on road access, aid agencies report that only a fraction of the necessary aid is reaching its destination. To address this, alternative routes such as sea and air drops are being explored and used now. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has, meanwhile, vowed to press on with an offensive in southern Gaza. The UN World Food Programme recently used a land route to deliver aid to northern Gaza, with ongoing efforts to scale up these deliveries. On Tuesday, a UN World Food Programme convoy used a land route to deliver aid to northern Gaza for the first time in three weeks. The trucks used an Israeli military road running along Gaza's border fence, Jamie McGoldrick, UN aid coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, told Reuters. Also read | UN finds 'credible' evidence of sexual violence, including gang rapes, during Hamas attack on Israel Enough food for 25,000 people was delivered to Gaza City, with WFP spokesperson Shaza Moghraby saying they were hoping to scale up deliveries, but need access to be regular and consistent. Israel says it is not to blame for Gaza's food shortages as it is allowing aid through two crossings in the south. Borrell, in his address to the UN Security Council, emphasised that the humanitarian crisis is a consequence of the lack of viable land routes. The UN has issued a warning that a significant portion of Gaza's population is teetering on the brink of famine. Tragically, at least 27 people, including many children, have succumbed to malnutrition and dehydration in the past two weeks, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry. In response to this dire situation, the EU is actively working to facilitate humanitarian assistance. Borrell drew parallels between the use of starvation as a weapon in Gaza and similar condemnations in Ukraine. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: US airdrops fresh round of humanitarian aid to Gaza; 36,800 meals delivered Meanwhile, the UN continues its mediation efforts while Israel's military campaign in Gaza persists. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Starvation being used as a weapon, says EU foreign policy chief

Amid the unrelenting aggression by Israel the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip are in desperate need for urgent aid. Washington it is working to coordinate a multinational effort that's to set up a maritime aid corridor into Gaza and this is a part of US strategy of flooding The Zone with humanitarian assistance.

Israel-Hamas war: US working to coordinate a multinational effort for aid

<p>Gaza has been reeling under an immense humanitarian crisis as access to basic services such as food and water remains limited. With the residents continuing to face hardships, the blockade imposed by Israel has severely restricted the movement of aid in the Gaza Strip through Egypt as well.</p>

<p>This has exacerbated the suffering as the war between the Jewish nation and the Hamas militant group continues relentlessly.&nbsp;Amid this, the US earlier airdropped humanitarian aid, however as per State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, more ways are to be considered, one of them being building a temporary port to get the aid to Gazans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his recent State of the Union address on March 7, US President Joe Biden announced plans for the US military to construct a temporary port along Gaza's Mediterranean coast to facilitate the aid delivery. With this initiative, Washington is aiming to provide essential supplies such as food, medicine, water, and temporary shelters to the people of Gaza.</p>

<p>However, Biden has already clarified that there will be "no US boots" on the Gazan soil, underscoring that the operation will not involve the deployment of US military personnel within the besieged territory.</p>

<p>This comes as Israel, the US' strategic partner in the West Asian region, has expressed support for the temporary dock, reports said even as rift has been growing between Biden and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Sigrid Kaag, the UN humanitarian and reconstruction coordinator for Gaza, also welcomed Washington's involvement in the initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is the plan?&nbsp;JLOTS, large military vessel, and small cargo ships&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The operation, which is anticipated to take several weeks to execute, will be somewhat like a Cyprus initiative, where there is an establishment of a maritime corridor to facilitate the delivery of crucial humanitarian aid by sea, addressing urgent needs.&nbsp;The Cyprus plan is to deliver aid by constructing a landing jetty in Gaza using material salvaged from demolished buildings and rubble.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-starvation-being-used-as-a-weapon-says-eu-official-699731">Israel-Hamas war: Starvation being used as a weapon, says EU official</a></p>

<p>However, the US plan for a temporary dock is different from the above. In the US initiative, there will be a temporary pier to deliver aid.&nbsp;While initially military-operated, the temporary port is envisioned to transition into a commercially run facility, reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, there will be logistical and security challenges.</p>

<p>The plan involves&nbsp;Joint Logistics Over The Shore (JLOTS) equipment.&nbsp;This will be akin to a large LEGO system, as per a report by the Times of Israel.&nbsp;It will be comprised of 40-foot-long steel pieces that interlock to create a pier and causeway.</p>

<p>The question is how these steel pieces will be taken to the sea. It will be done with the help of a big Military Sealift Command vessel. As per reports, US troops in a few days will start loading the JLOTS into the vessel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The resulting causeway can span up to 1,800 feet in length and will be two-laned. This causeway will allow for the transfer of aid from cargo ships to smaller vessels and ultimately onto land in Gaza with the help of another floating pier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to a UK media outlet, a retired US Marine Corps colonel&nbsp;Mark Cancian said,&nbsp;"The military's preference is to have an operating port. That makes everything much easier."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But that's not always possible, either due to a conflict situation or in a peacetime, humanitarian mission," he said adding, "That's where JLOTS comes in."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strike-on-car-in-south-lebanon-kills-significant-hamas-member-699735">Israeli strike on car in south Lebanon kills 'significant' Hamas member</a></p>

<p>Now, to manage aid distribution, the US has partnered with Fogbow, a private firm led by former military and intelligence officials. Fogbow's role, known internally as the Blue Beach Plan, will focus on organising aid movement. However, as far as distribution is concerned Fogbow will not be a part of it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Security measures are also paramount, with reports quoting experts highlighting the need to prevent unauthorised access to the pier area. The Israel Defense Force (IDF) will oversee outer security.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The aid shipments are expected to make a major impact, potentially providing two million meals a day to Gaza's population, helping alleviate the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the ongoing conflict.</p>

<p>The 7th Transportation Brigade, stationed at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia, had already started assembling JLOTS equipment and watercraft, as per officials cited by the media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-warplanes-strike-deep-in-lebanese-territory-699754">Israel warplanes strike deep in Lebanese territory</a></strong></p>

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<p>The Biden administration has resorted to airdrops as an unconventional solution to provide aid to Gaza, after months of urging Israel to increase aid delivery and ensure safe passage for trucks carrying supplies.</p>

<p>The Israeli government will also oversee security at the pier and safeguard it against potential attacks by Hamas militants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Spain's Open Arms aid ship, which was stationed in Larnaca and was awaiting permission to transport food aid from World Central Kitchen, a US charity founded by renowned chef Jose Andres, finally set sail. The boat carried 200 tonnes of rice, flour, and proteins for delivery to Gaza. Additionally, another 500 tonnes of aid are prepared in Cyprus for subsequent shipments.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Gaza has been reeling under an immense humanitarian crisis as access to basic services such as food and water remains limited. With the residents continuing to face hardships, the blockade imposed by Israel has severely restricted the movement of aid in the Gaza Strip through Egypt as well.

Gaza has been reeling under an immense humanitarian crisis as access to basic services such as food and water remains limited. With the residents continuing to face hardships, the blockade imposed by Israel has severely restricted the movement of aid in the Gaza Strip through Egypt as well. This has exacerbated the suffering as the war between the Jewish nation and the Hamas militant group continues relentlessly. Amid this, the US earlier airdropped humanitarian aid, however as per State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, more ways are to be considered, one of them being building a temporary port to get the aid to Gazans. In his recent State of the Union address on March 7, US President Joe Biden announced plans for the US military to construct a temporary port along Gaza's Mediterranean coast to facilitate the aid delivery. With this initiative, Washington is aiming to provide essential supplies such as food, medicine, water, and temporary shelters to the people of Gaza. However, Biden has already clarified that there will be "no US boots" on the Gazan soil, underscoring that the operation will not involve the deployment of US military personnel within the besieged territory. This comes as Israel, the US' strategic partner in the West Asian region, has expressed support for the temporary dock, reports said even as rift has been growing between Biden and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Sigrid Kaag, the UN humanitarian and reconstruction coordinator for Gaza, also welcomed Washington's involvement in the initiative. What is the plan? JLOTS, large military vessel, and small cargo ships The operation, which is anticipated to take several weeks to execute, will be somewhat like a Cyprus initiative, where there is an establishment of a maritime corridor to facilitate the delivery of crucial humanitarian aid by sea, addressing urgent needs. The Cyprus plan is to deliver aid by constructing a landing jetty in Gaza using material salvaged from demolished buildings and rubble. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Starvation being used as a weapon, says EU official However, the US plan for a temporary dock is different from the above. In the US initiative, there will be a temporary pier to deliver aid. While initially military-operated, the temporary port is envisioned to transition into a commercially run facility, reports said. However, there will be logistical and security challenges. The plan involves Joint Logistics Over The Shore (JLOTS) equipment. This will be akin to a large LEGO system, as per a report by the Times of Israel. It will be comprised of 40-foot-long steel pieces that interlock to create a pier and causeway. The question is how these steel pieces will be taken to the sea. It will be done with the help of a big Military Sealift Command vessel. As per reports, US troops in a few days will start loading the JLOTS into the vessel. The resulting causeway can span up to 1,800 feet in length and will be two-laned. This causeway will allow for the transfer of aid from cargo ships to smaller vessels and ultimately onto land in Gaza with the help of another floating pier. Speaking to a UK media outlet, a retired US Marine Corps colonel Mark Cancian said, "The military's preference is to have an operating port. That makes everything much easier." "But that's not always possible, either due to a conflict situation or in a peacetime, humanitarian mission," he said adding, "That's where JLOTS comes in." Also Read | Israeli strike on car in south Lebanon kills 'significant' Hamas member Now, to manage aid distribution, the US has partnered with Fogbow, a private firm led by former military and intelligence officials. Fogbow's role, known internally as the Blue Beach Plan, will focus on organising aid movement. However, as far as distribution is concerned Fogbow will not be a part of it. Security measures are also paramount, with reports quoting experts highlighting the need to prevent unauthorised access to the pier area. The Israel Defense Force (IDF) will oversee outer security. The aid shipments are expected to make a major impact, potentially providing two million meals a day to Gaza's population, helping alleviate the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the ongoing conflict. The 7th Transportation Brigade, stationed at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia, had already started assembling JLOTS equipment and watercraft, as per officials cited by the media reports. Watch | Israel warplanes strike deep in Lebanese territory × The Biden administration has resorted to airdrops as an unconventional solution to provide aid to Gaza, after months of urging Israel to increase aid delivery and ensure safe passage for trucks carrying supplies. The Israeli government will also oversee security at the pier and safeguard it against potential attacks by Hamas militants. Meanwhile, Spain's Open Arms aid ship, which was stationed in Larnaca and was awaiting permission to transport food aid from World Central Kitchen, a US charity founded by renowned chef Jose Andres, finally set sail. The boat carried 200 tonnes of rice, flour, and proteins for delivery to Gaza. Additionally, another 500 tonnes of aid are prepared in Cyprus for subsequent shipments. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Logistical and security hurdles in US bid to set up temporary port for aid to Gazans

United Nations used a new land route on Tuesday to supply food to Northern Gaza for the first time in almost 3 weeks. Global pressure continues to grow on Israel to allow more access to the coastal Enclave amid a looming famine. Watch in for more details!

Israel War: Global pressure grows on Israel to allow more access to Gaza

Israel War: UN aid convoy entered north Gaza via new military road

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan begins today for many countries, without the Israel-Hamas cease-fire that U.S. officials and Arab mediators have been working on for weeks. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Ramadan begins with no ceasefire in sight

<p>Iranian leaders "did not orchestrate nor had foreknowledge of the Hamas attack against Israel", a US intelligence assessment report released on Monday (March 11) claimed while referring to the October 7 Hamas attack in southern Israel in which around 1200 people were killed. But it added that Tehran has since encouraged its proxy militias in the region to mount attacks against Israeli and US interests.</p>

<p>The report also warned that the Lebanon-based Hezbollah movement "will consider a range of retaliatory options" in the immediate future&nbsp;depending on Israel’s actions in Lebanon.</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu's coalition is 'in jeopardy': US intelligence&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The "annual threat assessment" report said Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ruling coalition is "in jeopardy".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Netanyahu’s viability as leader as well as his governing coalition of far-right and ultraorthodox parties . . . may be in jeopardy," the assessment said.</p>

<p>The assessment added that people's distrust of Israel's embattled premier "has deepened and broadened".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israelis demand PM Netanyahu's resignation, faces heat over his hardline policies</strong></p>

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<p>While Netanyahu has attempted to assuage public sentiment by purportedly launching a strong retaliatory state of war in Gaza after Hamas militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, the failure to stop such an attack continues to hover over his prospects to be in power.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US intelligence noted that "a different, more moderate government is a possibility" after any new election.</p>

<p>About 70 per cent of Israeli people want Netanyahu to step down either immediately or following the conclusion of the ongoing war in Gaza, according to public opinion polls.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Hamas threat will remain for years to come: US assessment</strong></h2>

<p>The US assessment said that Prime Minister Netanyahu's stated goal of "destroying Hamas" enjoys strong public support. But at the same time, Israel&nbsp;"probably will face lingering armed resistance from Hamas for years to come".</p>

<p>The report posed doubts over "governance outcomes" in post-war Gaza as Hamas continues to have significant public support and there remains "continued animosity" between the militant group and its rivals in the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-netanyahu-reacts-to-perceived-tensions-between-israel-and-us-699143">Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu reacts to perceived tensions between Israel and US</a></strong></p>

<p>"Much...  will hinge on Israel’s decisions regarding how to deal with Gaza in the aftermath of its campaign as well as the scale and scope of its support for the PA," the report said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iranian leaders "did not orchestrate nor had foreknowledge of the Hamas attack against Israel", a US intelligence assessment report released on Monday (March 11) claimed while referring to the October 7 Hamas attack in southern Israel in which around 1200 people were killed.

Iranian leaders "did not orchestrate nor had foreknowledge of the Hamas attack against Israel", a US intelligence assessment report released on Monday (March 11) claimed while referring to the October 7 Hamas attack in southern Israel in which around 1200 people were killed. But it added that Tehran has since encouraged its proxy militias in the region to mount attacks against Israeli and US interests. The report also warned that the Lebanon-based Hezbollah movement "will consider a range of retaliatory options" in the immediate future depending on Israel’s actions in Lebanon. Netanyahu's coalition is 'in jeopardy': US intelligence The "annual threat assessment" report said Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ruling coalition is "in jeopardy". "Netanyahu’s viability as leader as well as his governing coalition of far-right and ultraorthodox parties . . . may be in jeopardy," the assessment said. The assessment added that people's distrust of Israel's embattled premier "has deepened and broadened". Also watch | Israelis demand PM Netanyahu's resignation, faces heat over his hardline policies × While Netanyahu has attempted to assuage public sentiment by purportedly launching a strong retaliatory state of war in Gaza after Hamas militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, the failure to stop such an attack continues to hover over his prospects to be in power. The US intelligence noted that "a different, more moderate government is a possibility" after any new election. About 70 per cent of Israeli people want Netanyahu to step down either immediately or following the conclusion of the ongoing war in Gaza, according to public opinion polls. Hamas threat will remain for years to come: US assessment The US assessment said that Prime Minister Netanyahu's stated goal of "destroying Hamas" enjoys strong public support. But at the same time, Israel "probably will face lingering armed resistance from Hamas for years to come". The report posed doubts over "governance outcomes" in post-war Gaza as Hamas continues to have significant public support and there remains "continued animosity" between the militant group and its rivals in the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu reacts to perceived tensions between Israel and US "Much...  will hinge on Israel’s decisions regarding how to deal with Gaza in the aftermath of its campaign as well as the scale and scope of its support for the PA," the report said. (With inputs from agencies)

US intelligence says Iran ‘did not orchestrate nor had foreknowledge’ of October 7 attacks

An annual threat assessment compiling US intelligence warned that Israel will be challenged by Hamas for years to come, as the country continues its military campaign aimed at destroying the Gaza-ruling terror group in response to its devastating October 7 attack on southern Israel.

US report: Israel likely to face Hamas resistance 'for years to come'

<p>Israel was verifying if Marwan Issa, the second-highest military leader of Hamas died in an air strike in Gaza, as the talks for a ceasefire during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan continued to stumble.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Marwan Issa is confirmed dead, it would be the highest-ranking official from Hamas in over five-month war that has killed tens of thousands in Gaza, the blockaded Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Could Marwan Issa be dead?</strong></h2>

<p>On March 9 (Saturday), Israel bombed the Al-Nusseirat camp in central Gaza, Israeli Army Radio reported. The Israeli side reportedly had intelligence about the location of Issa, who leads the Hamas military wing called Izz el-Deen al-Qassam brigades.</p>

<p>A total of five people were killed in the bombing of Al-Nusseirat camp, Israeli Army Radio reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ramadan-begins-without-ceasefire-what-it-means-for-gaza-and-rest-of-region-top-points-698717">Ramadan begins without ceasefire: What it means for Gaza and rest of the region - Top points</a></strong></p>

<p>A day later, while Israel said its forces had killed militants in central Gaza, it did not mention if or not Issa was among those dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Issa features high on Israel's list of most-wanted leaders. He features together with the Hamas military wing head Mohammed Deif and Hamas's Gaza leader Yahya Sinwar, who are accused of masterminding the Oct 7 attack that triggered the currently ongoing conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What Issa's death could mean for Israel-Hamas war?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Issa's death would bring Israel closer to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's purported goal of 'decimating Hamas'. But it would also complicate the efforts to secure a ceasefire and a prisoner-hostage exchange. The talks for a ceasefire are ongoing through Egyptian and Qatari mediators.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/son-of-hamas-deputy-commander-marwan-issa-killed-in-israeli-airstrike-reports-674444">Son of Hamas Deputy Commander Marwan Issa killed in Israeli airstrike: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>Hamas militants attacked southern Israel on October 7 and killed around 1200 people and took 253 hostages, according to the Israeli tallies. The consequent war has killed more than 31,000 Palestinians and injured about 73,000, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Will Putin emerge as the winner in Gaza war?</strong></p>

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<p>The conflict has displaced most of Gaza's 2.3 million people, with many cramped into makeshift tents in southern Rafah city.</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>


Israel was verifying if Marwan Issa, the second-highest military leader of Hamas died in an air strike in Gaza, as the talks for a ceasefire during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan continued to stumble.

Israel was verifying if Marwan Issa, the second-highest military leader of Hamas died in an air strike in Gaza, as the talks for a ceasefire during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan continued to stumble. If Marwan Issa is confirmed dead, it would be the highest-ranking official from Hamas in over five-month war that has killed tens of thousands in Gaza, the blockaded Palestinian enclave. Could Marwan Issa be dead? On March 9 (Saturday), Israel bombed the Al-Nusseirat camp in central Gaza, Israeli Army Radio reported. The Israeli side reportedly had intelligence about the location of Issa, who leads the Hamas military wing called Izz el-Deen al-Qassam brigades. A total of five people were killed in the bombing of Al-Nusseirat camp, Israeli Army Radio reported. Also read | Ramadan begins without ceasefire: What it means for Gaza and rest of the region - Top points A day later, while Israel said its forces had killed militants in central Gaza, it did not mention if or not Issa was among those dead. Issa features high on Israel's list of most-wanted leaders. He features together with the Hamas military wing head Mohammed Deif and Hamas's Gaza leader Yahya Sinwar, who are accused of masterminding the Oct 7 attack that triggered the currently ongoing conflict. What Issa's death could mean for Israel-Hamas war? Issa's death would bring Israel closer to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's purported goal of 'decimating Hamas'. But it would also complicate the efforts to secure a ceasefire and a prisoner-hostage exchange. The talks for a ceasefire are ongoing through Egyptian and Qatari mediators. Also read | Son of Hamas Deputy Commander Marwan Issa killed in Israeli airstrike: Reports Hamas militants attacked southern Israel on October 7 and killed around 1200 people and took 253 hostages, according to the Israeli tallies. The consequent war has killed more than 31,000 Palestinians and injured about 73,000, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza. Also watch | Gravitas | Will Putin emerge as the winner in Gaza war? × The conflict has displaced most of Gaza's 2.3 million people, with many cramped into makeshift tents in southern Rafah city. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israel ‘verifying’ if Hamas military leader Marwan Issa was killed in Gaza

Israel-Hamas war overshadows Ramadan preparations in Gaza

A ship belonging to Spanish aid group Open Arms and carrying 200 tons of food aid was expected to make a pilot voyage to Gaza from nearby Cyprus “as soon as possible,”. Watch in for more details!

Israel War: Gaza aid ship yet to leave Cyprus

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Moon-sighting committee of the United Arab Emirates announced March 11 (Monday) as&nbsp;the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. This means that the festive month has started without any ceasefire in Gaza, the flashpoint of one of the most devastating conflicts of the 21st century that began after Hamas militants stormed into southern Israel on October 7 last year and killed about 1,200 citizens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The consequent state of war in Gaza has killed over 31,000 Palestinians in the blockaded enclave, with a staggering humanitarian crisis forcing assessments of an "imminent famine".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-puts-focus-on-genocide-convention-over-imminent-threat-of-famine-in-gaza-697436">South Africa puts focus on Genocide Convention over 'imminent threat' of famine in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ramadan begins without ceasefire: What now?</strong></h2>

<p><strong>1. Efforts for a ceasefire are still on:&nbsp;</strong>Egypt is reportedly in talks with senior Hamas and Israeli officials&nbsp;as well as other mediators to relaunch talks for a Gaza Strip truce during Ramadan. This means that it's potentially possible that a ceasefire could be agreed upon sometime later during the holy month.&nbsp;Cairo continues to grapple with repercussions of the Israel-Hamas war and is preparing for refugee influx in case of the ground offensive on Rafah. It is reportedly building a fortified buffer zone along the border with Gaza to accommodate refugees in case of mass exodus from Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-in-talks-with-hamas-and-israel-to-restart-ceasefire-talks-report-698685">Egypt in talks with Hamas and Israel to restart ceasefire talks: Report</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>2.&nbsp;</strong>The International Crisis Group <a href="https://www.crisisgroup.org/crisiswatch#israel/palestine">noted</a> that the start of Ramadan in March could see rising tensions in the West Bank, and beyond. "In particular, should Israel impose restrictions on Muslim worshippers’ access at Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa complex, it could fuel violence by Hezbollah or Palestinian armed groups in&nbsp;Lebanon, increasing the risk of full-scale war," it said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gazans preparing for Ramadan under the shadow of the Israel war | Israel-Hamas War</strong></p>

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<p>3. Yemen's Houthi rebels who jumped into the conflict by attacking the Red Sea shipping route in purported solidarity with the Palestinians last November remain undeterred by the US-UK bombing campaign. The Houthis launched near-daily attacks on international shipping in adjacent waters all through February.</p>

<p>4. Mass starvation remains the gravest risk in Gaza amid the continuous state of war.&nbsp;Aid inflow fell by half in Feb and the UN reported that 90 per cent of the population was facing a high level of acute food insecurity and almost 600,000 were "one step away from famine". UN special rapporteur on the right to food asserted Israel is intentionally starving Palestinians and declared a “situation of genocide”.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Moon-sighting committee of the United Arab Emirates announced March 11 (Monday) as the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. This means that the festive month has started without any ceasefire in Gaza, the flashpoint of one of the most devastating conflicts of the 21st century that began after Hamas militants stormed into southern Israel on October 7 last year and killed about 1,200 citizens.

The Moon-sighting committee of the United Arab Emirates announced March 11 (Monday) as the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. This means that the festive month has started without any ceasefire in Gaza, the flashpoint of one of the most devastating conflicts of the 21st century that began after Hamas militants stormed into southern Israel on October 7 last year and killed about 1,200 citizens. The consequent state of war in Gaza has killed over 31,000 Palestinians in the blockaded enclave, with a staggering humanitarian crisis forcing assessments of an "imminent famine". Also read | South Africa puts focus on Genocide Convention over 'imminent threat' of famine in Gaza Ramadan begins without ceasefire: What now? 1. Efforts for a ceasefire are still on: Egypt is reportedly in talks with senior Hamas and Israeli officials as well as other mediators to relaunch talks for a Gaza Strip truce during Ramadan. This means that it's potentially possible that a ceasefire could be agreed upon sometime later during the holy month. Cairo continues to grapple with repercussions of the Israel-Hamas war and is preparing for refugee influx in case of the ground offensive on Rafah. It is reportedly building a fortified buffer zone along the border with Gaza to accommodate refugees in case of mass exodus from Gaza. Also read | Egypt in talks with Hamas and Israel to restart ceasefire talks: Report 2. The International Crisis Group noted that the start of Ramadan in March could see rising tensions in the West Bank, and beyond. "In particular, should Israel impose restrictions on Muslim worshippers’ access at Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa complex, it could fuel violence by Hezbollah or Palestinian armed groups in Lebanon, increasing the risk of full-scale war," it said. Also watch | Gazans preparing for Ramadan under the shadow of the Israel war | Israel-Hamas War × 3. Yemen's Houthi rebels who jumped into the conflict by attacking the Red Sea shipping route in purported solidarity with the Palestinians last November remain undeterred by the US-UK bombing campaign. The Houthis launched near-daily attacks on international shipping in adjacent waters all through February. 4. Mass starvation remains the gravest risk in Gaza amid the continuous state of war. Aid inflow fell by half in Feb and the UN reported that 90 per cent of the population was facing a high level of acute food insecurity and almost 600,000 were "one step away from famine". UN special rapporteur on the right to food asserted Israel is intentionally starving Palestinians and declared a “situation of genocide”.

Ramadan begins without ceasefire: What it means for Gaza and rest of the region - Top points

Thousands of Israelis took to the streets in Israeli cities to demonstrate for the release of the hostages held by the militant Palestinian organization Hamas and against the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Israel War: Thousands of Israelis protest against PM Netanyahu

First Minister of Scotland Humza Yousaf has dismissed "ludicrous" and "completely untrue" allegations of a conflict of interest in his decision to donate £250,000 to a Gaza charity agency. Watch to know more!

Spotlight on Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf: Analyzing allegations of Conflict of Interest

America has planned to build a floating Port off the coast of Gaza, this is being seen as a bold move but there are serious concerns about the relief that it will actually bring on ground. The move is considered too little too late for Palestinians who are already facing starvation. Watch to know more!

US to build temporary port on Gaza coast to send aid | Israel-Hamas War

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US intelligence says Iran ‘did not orchestrate nor had foreknowledge’ of October 7 attacks