Two Iranians were arrested in Cyprus over alleged plot to stage attacks on Israelis living in the country, a Cypriot newspaper reported Sunday (Dec 10).

Both of them are said to be political refugees and linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard.

The Kathimerini Cyprus newspaper reported that the duo was in the initial stages of gathering intelligence related to the potential Israeli targets.

Later, PM Benjamin Netanyahu declared on Sunday that Israeli intelligence service Mossad helped Cyprus foil the "Iranian-ordered attack" against Israelis and Jews on the island.

<h2>Iranian network active in Cyprus</h2>

Cyprus is a prominent tourist and investment destination for many Israelis, located just a 40-minute flight from the Jewish nation.

Iranian undercover network is believed to be operational here, which constantly keeps devising threatening designs against local Israelis.

Earlier in June this year, PM Netanyahu of Israel had lauded Cyprus authorities for foiling an alleged attack plot against Israelis.

"Israel welcomes the foiling of the Iranian terrorist attack in the territory of Cyprus against Israeli targets," Netanyahu's office had said.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas | US to send more weapons to Israel

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"Israel operates everywhere in a wide variety of methods in order to protect Jews and Israelis and will continue to act to sever Iranian terrorism wherever it raises its head, including on Iranian soil," the statement added.

In 2021, Israel accused Iran of orchestrating an attempted attack against Israelis in Cyprus after police on the Mediterranean island said an armed individual had been arrested.

<h2>Houthis issue warning to Israeli ships</h2>

Iran and its proxies continue to threaten Israeli interests across the West Asia region as the war in Gaza rages on.

Earlier this week, Yemen’s Houthi movement said it would target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality, and warned all international shipping companies against dealing with Israeli ports.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-palestine-pm-demands-us-to-recognise-israeli-atrocities-in-gaza-668198">Also read:&nbsp;Exclusive: Palestine PM demands US to recognise Israeli `atrocities` in Gaza</a>

“If Gaza does not receive the food and medicines it needs, all ships in the Red Sea bound for Israeli ports, regardless of their nationality, will become a target for our armed forces,” the group’s spokesperson said in a statement on Saturday.

This has risked major escalation in the region as Israel continues to pound Gaza for a third month, killing more than 17,700 people so far and wounding nearly 49,000 others.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two Iranians were arrested in Cyprus over alleged plot to stage attacks on Israelis living in the country, a Cypriot newspaper reported Sunday (Dec 10). Both of them are said to be political refugees and linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard.

Two Iranians were arrested in Cyprus over alleged plot to stage attacks on Israelis living in the country, a Cypriot newspaper reported Sunday (Dec 10). Both of them are said to be political refugees and linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. The Kathimerini Cyprus newspaper reported that the duo was in the initial stages of gathering intelligence related to the potential Israeli targets. Later, PM Benjamin Netanyahu declared on Sunday that Israeli intelligence service Mossad helped Cyprus foil the "Iranian-ordered attack" against Israelis and Jews on the island. Iranian network active in Cyprus Cyprus is a prominent tourist and investment destination for many Israelis, located just a 40-minute flight from the Jewish nation. Iranian undercover network is believed to be operational here, which constantly keeps devising threatening designs against local Israelis. Earlier in June this year, PM Netanyahu of Israel had lauded Cyprus authorities for foiling an alleged attack plot against Israelis. "Israel welcomes the foiling of the Iranian terrorist attack in the territory of Cyprus against Israeli targets," Netanyahu's office had said. Watch: Israel-Hamas | US to send more weapons to Israel × "Israel operates everywhere in a wide variety of methods in order to protect Jews and Israelis and will continue to act to sever Iranian terrorism wherever it raises its head, including on Iranian soil," the statement added. In 2021, Israel accused Iran of orchestrating an attempted attack against Israelis in Cyprus after police on the Mediterranean island said an armed individual had been arrested. Houthis issue warning to Israeli ships Iran and its proxies continue to threaten Israeli interests across the West Asia region as the war in Gaza rages on. Earlier this week, Yemen’s Houthi movement said it would target all ships heading to Israel, regardless of their nationality, and warned all international shipping companies against dealing with Israeli ports. Also read: Exclusive: Palestine PM demands US to recognise Israeli `atrocities` in Gaza “If Gaza does not receive the food and medicines it needs, all ships in the Red Sea bound for Israeli ports, regardless of their nationality, will become a target for our armed forces,” the group’s spokesperson said in a statement on Saturday. This has risked major escalation in the region as Israel continues to pound Gaza for a third month, killing more than 17,700 people so far and wounding nearly 49,000 others. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyprus detains two Iranian ‘refugees’ over alleged plot to target Israelis

In an exclusive interview with WION, Palestine's Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh laid emphasis on urgently bringing an end to the war between Israel and Hamas, which has now entered its ninth week.&nbsp;

The Palestine Authority never really left Gaza, Palestine's Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh told WION on the sidelines of Doha Forum in the Qatari capital on Sunday (Dec 10).

Asked about the talks of Palestine Authority taking up the administration of Gaza from Hamas, Shtayyeh said that the salary of 34,000 Palestinian civil servants in Gaza is paid for by the Palestine Authority itself. "There are important issues that need national consensus," Shtayyeh said.&nbsp;

Hamas has been the de-facto governing authority of the Gaza Strip since its takeover of the blockaded Palestinian enclave in June 2007.&nbsp;

<h2>'Stop the war': Palestinian PM</h2>

The Palestinian prime minister said that the United States must ensure an end to&nbsp;the "atrocities" committed by Israel in the ongoing war.&nbsp;

"Our focus is on today. Today means to stop the war," Shtayyeh said.&nbsp;

While laying emphasis on the resolution of Israel-Palestine conflict, Shtayyeh said: "When it comes to the day after, the US has been talking about two-state solution. What we want is not another 30 years of negotiations for the two-state solution. We want a mechanism of implementation for Israel to end&nbsp;its occupation that has occurred in Palestinian territories&nbsp;since 1967 and manifest the two-state solution on the border of 1967, where Jerusalem remains the capital of the state of Palestine."

Israeli tanks battled their way to the centre of Khan Younis on Sunday (Dec 10) in a major new push into the heart of the main city in the southern Gaza Strip.

Israel has vowed to annihilate Hamas after militants burst across the fence on Oct. 7 and went on a rampage through Israeli towns, gunning down families in their homes, killing 1,200 people and seizing 240 hostages.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-riyadhs-show-of-islamic-unity-for-palestine-amid-israel-hamas-war-657849">The Capitals: Riyadh's show of Islamic unity for Palestine amid Israel-Hamas war</a>

Since then, Gaza's health authorities say at least 17,700 people have been confirmed killed in Israeli strikes, with thousands more missing and presumed dead under rubble. The toll no longer includes figures from northern parts of the blockaded Palestinian enclave, beyond the reach of ambulances and where hospitals have ceased functioning.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Safety of hostages vs pledge to destroy Hamas

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An Israeli siege has cut off supplies, with the United Nations warning of mass hunger and disease.

At Doha Forum, Arab foreign ministers criticised the United States for vetoing a UN Security Council resolution on Friday (Dec 8) that demanded a humanitarian ceasefire.

In an exclusive interview with WION, Palestine's Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh laid emphasis on urgently bringing an end to the war between Israel and Hamas, which has now entered its ninth week.

In an exclusive interview with WION, Palestine's Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh laid emphasis on urgently bringing an end to the war between Israel and Hamas, which has now entered its ninth week. The Palestine Authority never really left Gaza, Palestine's Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh told WION on the sidelines of Doha Forum in the Qatari capital on Sunday (Dec 10). Asked about the talks of Palestine Authority taking up the administration of Gaza from Hamas, Shtayyeh said that the salary of 34,000 Palestinian civil servants in Gaza is paid for by the Palestine Authority itself. "There are important issues that need national consensus," Shtayyeh said. Hamas has been the de-facto governing authority of the Gaza Strip since its takeover of the blockaded Palestinian enclave in June 2007. 'Stop the war': Palestinian PM The Palestinian prime minister said that the United States must ensure an end to the "atrocities" committed by Israel in the ongoing war. "Our focus is on today. Today means to stop the war," Shtayyeh said. While laying emphasis on the resolution of Israel-Palestine conflict, Shtayyeh said: "When it comes to the day after, the US has been talking about two-state solution. What we want is not another 30 years of negotiations for the two-state solution. We want a mechanism of implementation for Israel to end its occupation that has occurred in Palestinian territories since 1967 and manifest the two-state solution on the border of 1967, where Jerusalem remains the capital of the state of Palestine." Israeli tanks battled their way to the centre of Khan Younis on Sunday (Dec 10) in a major new push into the heart of the main city in the southern Gaza Strip. Israel has vowed to annihilate Hamas after militants burst across the fence on Oct. 7 and went on a rampage through Israeli towns, gunning down families in their homes, killing 1,200 people and seizing 240 hostages. Also read | The Capitals: Riyadh's show of Islamic unity for Palestine amid Israel-Hamas war Since then, Gaza's health authorities say at least 17,700 people have been confirmed killed in Israeli strikes, with thousands more missing and presumed dead under rubble. The toll no longer includes figures from northern parts of the blockaded Palestinian enclave, beyond the reach of ambulances and where hospitals have ceased functioning. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Safety of hostages vs pledge to destroy Hamas × An Israeli siege has cut off supplies, with the United Nations warning of mass hunger and disease. At Doha Forum, Arab foreign ministers criticised the United States for vetoing a UN Security Council resolution on Friday (Dec 8) that demanded a humanitarian ceasefire.

Exclusive: Palestine PM demands US to ensure end of Israeli 'atrocities' in Gaza

The death toll in Gaza Strip touched 17,700 on Saturday (Dec 9), according to Hamas-run health ministry as Israel continued to bombard targets in the blockaded Palestinian enclave, Aid groups have said that Gaza faces an "apocalyptic" humanitarian situation and is at the brink of being overwhelmed by starvation.

Earlier, the United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that called for an immediate&nbsp;ceasefire on Friday. Washington cited the absence of any plan for return of Israelis held hostage in Gaza since October 7 as one of the reasons behind its opposition. But its veto was strongly condemned by the Palestinian Authority and Hamas, as well as Islamin nations and humanitarian groups.&nbsp;

Mahmoud Abbas, the president of the Palestinian Authority, said the US veto in the UNSC made it complicit in Israel’s "genocide, ethnic cleansing and war crimes" against Palestinians, Reuters reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vetoes-un-security-council-resolution-demanding-immediate-humanitarian-ceasefire-in-gaza-667777">US vetoes UNSC resolution demanding immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, says it would ‘benefit’ Hamas</a>

<h2>Jaishankar dials Palestinian PM</h2>

Meanwhile, India's Minister for External Affairs (MEA) Dr S. Jaishankar spoke to the Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on the evening of Dec 9.&nbsp;

"Spoke to Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh this evening," Jaishankar wrote on X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;

"He expressed deep concern on the situation in both Gaza and the West Bank. Reiterated India’s long-standing position on Palestine. Agreed to remain in touch," Jaishankar added.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Why Houthis Target Ships in the Red Sea | What Stops U.S. From Retaliating?

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India supports a two-state&nbsp;resolution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine.

Amid Israel continuing&nbsp;to pound Gaza with air strikes, the Hamas ministry said 71 dead had arrived at Al-Aqsa hospital in Deir al-Balah alone over 24 hours, and 62 at Nasser hospital in the southern city of Khan Yunis.&nbsp;

Israel has vowed to eradicate Hamas after its unprecedented attacks on October 7, when the men owing allegiance to Hamas broke through Gaza's border with Israel to kill about 1,200 Israelis and seize hostages, of whom 138 remain captive, according to Israel. 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll in Gaza Strip touched 17,700 on Saturday (Dec 9), according to Hamas-run health ministry as Israel continued to bombard targets in the blockaded Palestinian enclave, Aid groups have said that Gaza faces an "apocalyptic" humanitarian situation and is at the brink of being overwhelmed by starvation.

The death toll in Gaza Strip touched 17,700 on Saturday (Dec 9), according to Hamas-run health ministry as Israel continued to bombard targets in the blockaded Palestinian enclave, Aid groups have said that Gaza faces an "apocalyptic" humanitarian situation and is at the brink of being overwhelmed by starvation. Earlier, the United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that called for an immediate ceasefire on Friday. Washington cited the absence of any plan for return of Israelis held hostage in Gaza since October 7 as one of the reasons behind its opposition. But its veto was strongly condemned by the Palestinian Authority and Hamas, as well as Islamin nations and humanitarian groups. Mahmoud Abbas, the president of the Palestinian Authority, said the US veto in the UNSC made it complicit in Israel’s "genocide, ethnic cleansing and war crimes" against Palestinians, Reuters reported. Also read | US vetoes UNSC resolution demanding immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, says it would ‘benefit’ Hamas Jaishankar dials Palestinian PM Meanwhile, India's Minister for External Affairs (MEA) Dr S. Jaishankar spoke to the Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on the evening of Dec 9. "Spoke to Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh this evening," Jaishankar wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "He expressed deep concern on the situation in both Gaza and the West Bank. Reiterated India’s long-standing position on Palestine. Agreed to remain in touch," Jaishankar added. Also watch | Gravitas Plus: Why Houthis Target Ships in the Red Sea | What Stops U.S. From Retaliating? × India supports a two-state resolution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine. Amid Israel continuing to pound Gaza with air strikes, the Hamas ministry said 71 dead had arrived at Al-Aqsa hospital in Deir al-Balah alone over 24 hours, and 62 at Nasser hospital in the southern city of Khan Yunis. Israel has vowed to eradicate Hamas after its unprecedented attacks on October 7, when the men owing allegiance to Hamas broke through Gaza's border with Israel to kill about 1,200 Israelis and seize hostages, of whom 138 remain captive, according to Israel. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Gaza death toll mounts to 17,770 as heavy fighting continues, claims Hamas

The US embassy in Baghdad was attacked with two salvos of rockets. No casualties were reported. Explosions were heard near the embassy, in the centre of Iraq's capital. Sirens calling on people to take cover were activated.

US embassy in Baghdad attacked with rockets

Israeli authorities are delving into allegations raised by U.S. researchers, indicating that certain investors might have possessed foresight&nbsp;of a Hamas plan to attack Israel on October 7, Reuters reported on Monday.<o:p></o:p>

The researchers, law professors Robert Jackson Jr from New York University and Joshua Mitts of Columbia University, uncovered substantial short-selling of shares leading up to the attacks, which has ignited the ongoing conflict.<o:p></o:p>

Signals of anticipation<o:p></o:p>

Days preceding the attack, traders seemingly anticipated the unfolding events, as outlined by the researchers. They noted a surge in short interest in the MSCI Israel Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) on October 2, based on data from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Furthermore, just before the attack, short selling of Israeli securities on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) notably surged. <o:p></o:p>

The researchers highlighted the unprecedented nature of this short-selling, surpassing levels observed during other periods of crisis, including the 2008 financial crisis, the 2014 Israel-Gaza war, and the COVID-19 pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

Israeli response and ongoing investigation<o:p></o:p>

In response to these findings, the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) redirected inquiries to the Israel Securities Authority, stating, "The matter is known to the authority and is under investigation by all the relevant parties." The Israel Securities Authority confirmed the investigation but provided no further details. Israeli police did not immediately comment on the matter.<o:p></o:p>

Profits and unusual trading activity<o:p></o:p>

The researchers brought to light the profits reaped through short-selling, particularly focusing on Leumi, Israel's largest bank. Between September 14 and October 5, 4.43 million new shares sold short yielded profits of 3.2 billion shekels ($862 million). It was further pointed out that a sharp and unusual increase in trading risky short-dated options on Israeli companies took place just before the attacks, emphasising the potential exploitation of tragic events by informed traders. <o:p></o:p>

The study indicates a pattern reminiscent of early April when initial reports suggested Hamas was planning an attack. Short volume in the MSCI Israel ETF peaked on April 3, resembling patterns observed just before the October 7 attacks.<o:p></o:p>

Traders profiting from tragic events<o:p></o:p>

The researchers concluded that traders informed about the impending attacks profited from the tragic events, highlighting a concerning gap in U.S. and international enforcement of legal prohibitions on informed trading.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

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Israeli authorities are delving into allegations raised by U.S. researchers, indicating that certain investors might have possessed foresight of a Hamas plan to attack Israel on October 7, Reuters reported on Monday.

Israeli authorities are delving into allegations raised by U.S. researchers, indicating that certain investors might have possessed foresight of a Hamas plan to attack Israel on October 7, Reuters reported on Monday. The researchers, law professors Robert Jackson Jr from New York University and Joshua Mitts of Columbia University, uncovered substantial short-selling of shares leading up to the attacks, which has ignited the ongoing conflict. Signals of anticipation Days preceding the attack, traders seemingly anticipated the unfolding events, as outlined by the researchers. They noted a surge in short interest in the MSCI Israel Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) on October 2, based on data from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Furthermore, just before the attack, short selling of Israeli securities on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) notably surged. The researchers highlighted the unprecedented nature of this short-selling, surpassing levels observed during other periods of crisis, including the 2008 financial crisis, the 2014 Israel-Gaza war, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Israeli response and ongoing investigation In response to these findings, the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) redirected inquiries to the Israel Securities Authority, stating, "The matter is known to the authority and is under investigation by all the relevant parties." The Israel Securities Authority confirmed the investigation but provided no further details. Israeli police did not immediately comment on the matter. Profits and unusual trading activity The researchers brought to light the profits reaped through short-selling, particularly focusing on Leumi, Israel's largest bank. Between September 14 and October 5, 4.43 million new shares sold short yielded profits of 3.2 billion shekels ($862 million). It was further pointed out that a sharp and unusual increase in trading risky short-dated options on Israeli companies took place just before the attacks, emphasising the potential exploitation of tragic events by informed traders. The study indicates a pattern reminiscent of early April when initial reports suggested Hamas was planning an attack. Short volume in the MSCI Israel ETF peaked on April 3, resembling patterns observed just before the October 7 attacks. Traders profiting from tragic events The researchers concluded that traders informed about the impending attacks profited from the tragic events, highlighting a concerning gap in U.S. and international enforcement of legal prohibitions on informed trading. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israeli authorities probe suspected insider trading linked to Hamas attack

For the first time in reported human history, a missile was shot down outside the Earth's atmosphere, throwing the debris effectively away from conventional gravitational pull of our planet, currently gripped by dozens of conflicts and two major wars;&nbsp;between Israel and Hamas, and Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;

The significant as well as unprecedented development occurred last month after a Houthi missile heading towards southern Israel's Eilat was show down by the Arrow 3 system, jointly developed by Israel and the United States, the Times newspaper reported.&nbsp;

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) had confirmed the first interception by Arrow 3 system on Nov 1 when it said that the missile was used to "thwart an aerial threat in the area of the Red Sea."

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

The development has broken through the ceiling of cosmic warfare for the first time. It was reportedly the inaugural use of Israel's Arrow 3 air defence system which destroyed a "ballistic missile" — that&nbsp;are rocket-powered only in the initial (boost) phase of flight and thus are more advanced&nbsp;— allegedly fired from Yemen.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-shows-its-airprowess-uses-arrow-3-missile-killer-for-first-time-to-intercept-houthi-rockets-654011">Israel shows its air prowess, uses Arrow 3 ‘missile-killer’ for first time to intercept Houthi rockets</a>

In the wake of Israel's consequential intelligence failure to prevent the unprecedented wave of attacks by Palestinian group Hamas on October 7, the breakthrough is deemed militarily significant.&nbsp;

Add this to the fact that the missile attacks by Hamas into Israel have aimed at tiring country's Iron-dome missile system out, the development is set to boost Israel's credentials to defend itself in a hostile neighbourhood.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel-Hamas war: How the conflict has spread in the wider region?</h2>

Immediately after Israel launched a retaliatory state of war following October 7 attacks, Iran-aligned militias — specifically Lebanon-based Hezbollah and Yemen-based Houthis — too launched attacks on Israel.

They&nbsp;cited Israel's unprecedented wave of attacks purportedly aimed at "decimating Hamas", which have so far killed over 15,000 Palestinians in the densely populated and blockaded Palestinian enclave Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Germany to buy Israeli missile defense system for $4.3 billion

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Notably, these militias have better military capabilities than Hamas given their recent history of leading interventions in the Yemeni civil war.&nbsp;

Against the conventional Hamas 'missiles' — described as 'homemade' — and are nothing more than explosive-based reconstructed plumbing pipes, Hezbollah and Houthis possess more sophisticated conventional weapons.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the bottom-line?</h2>

The successful demonstration of Israel's Arrow 3 air defence system has demonstrated its capability by intercepting the Houthi missiles, and has now bettered its effectiveness in countering threats in the region.

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.

For the first time in reported human history, a missile was shot down outside the Earth's atmosphere, throwing the debris effectively away from conventional gravitational pull of our planet, currently gripped by dozens of conflicts and two major wars; between Israel and Hamas, and Russia and Ukraine.

For the first time in reported human history, a missile was shot down outside the Earth's atmosphere, throwing the debris effectively away from conventional gravitational pull of our planet, currently gripped by dozens of conflicts and two major wars; between Israel and Hamas, and Russia and Ukraine. The significant as well as unprecedented development occurred last month after a Houthi missile heading towards southern Israel's Eilat was show down by the Arrow 3 system, jointly developed by Israel and the United States, the Times newspaper reported. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) had confirmed the first interception by Arrow 3 system on Nov 1 when it said that the missile was used to "thwart an aerial threat in the area of the Red Sea." What does it mean? The development has broken through the ceiling of cosmic warfare for the first time. It was reportedly the inaugural use of Israel's Arrow 3 air defence system which destroyed a "ballistic missile" — that are rocket-powered only in the initial (boost) phase of flight and thus are more advanced — allegedly fired from Yemen. Also read | Israel shows its air prowess, uses Arrow 3 ‘missile-killer’ for first time to intercept Houthi rockets In the wake of Israel's consequential intelligence failure to prevent the unprecedented wave of attacks by Palestinian group Hamas on October 7, the breakthrough is deemed militarily significant. Add this to the fact that the missile attacks by Hamas into Israel have aimed at tiring country's Iron-dome missile system out, the development is set to boost Israel's credentials to defend itself in a hostile neighbourhood. Israel-Hamas war: How the conflict has spread in the wider region? Immediately after Israel launched a retaliatory state of war following October 7 attacks, Iran-aligned militias — specifically Lebanon-based Hezbollah and Yemen-based Houthis — too launched attacks on Israel. They cited Israel's unprecedented wave of attacks purportedly aimed at "decimating Hamas", which have so far killed over 15,000 Palestinians in the densely populated and blockaded Palestinian enclave Gaza Strip. Also watch | Germany to buy Israeli missile defense system for $4.3 billion × Notably, these militias have better military capabilities than Hamas given their recent history of leading interventions in the Yemeni civil war. Against the conventional Hamas 'missiles' — described as 'homemade' — and are nothing more than explosive-based reconstructed plumbing pipes, Hezbollah and Houthis possess more sophisticated conventional weapons. What is the bottom-line? The successful demonstration of Israel's Arrow 3 air defence system has demonstrated its capability by intercepting the Houthi missiles, and has now bettered its effectiveness in countering threats in the region. 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.

Humanity's 'first' space war occurred during thick of Israel-Hamas conflict. Here's how

Washington's biggest Hanukkah shindig is known to be the biggest and the booziest celebration ever. Bringing together Jewish people over hot potato latkes, a vodka bar and Israeli-style sufganyot, or jelly-filled doughnuts for the past 28 years, the massive party is hosted by DC publicist Steve Rabinowitz. However, this year the coveted invite-only celebration of the eight-day festival of lights has been cancelled, and it's not the only one. The reason? Israel-Hamas war.

Israel-Hamas war: Hanukkah events toned down or scrapped across US

The United Nations on Monday heard accounts of brutal sexual violence committed during the Oct 7 attack by Hamas. The meeting was organised by former Meta executive Sheryl Sandberg and was attended by several women’s rights activists, UN officials, Israeli officials and frontline workers.&nbsp;

Hamas has denied all sexual violence allegations, but many Israeli first responders and women's rights activists have shared gruesome accounts of rape and mutilation. Sandberg told the UN gathering that “silence is complicity.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-who-warned-about-threats-of-ai-seeks-to-raise-1-bn-for-his-chatbot-666709">Musk, who warned about 'threats' of AI, seeks to raise $1 billion for his chatbot</a>

The crowd of 800 people, including diplomats from dozens of countries, watched videos from police interviews with first responders, describing what they saw on Oct 7 and after that.&nbsp;

Speakers present at the gathering also attacked UN Women and the wider women’s rights section to investigate or condemn these crimes.

WARNING: Readers may find some of the details in this story distressing.&nbsp;

<h2>Horrifying accounts of sexual violence from Oct 7</h2>

Two first responders from Israel addressed the UN in person. Simcha Grienman, who collected victims’ remains from the sites of attacks, described a woman’s body that he found naked from the waist down, leaning over a bed.

The corpse had been booby-trapped with a live grenade, hidden in the woman’s hand, he added. Among the bodies he recovered were two people who had suffered genital mutilation, one a woman who had “nails and different objects” in her genitals, the other so badly damaged “we couldn’t even identify if it’s a man or a woman”.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-woman-killed-two-injured-after-shooting-in-east-london-666680">UK: Woman killed, two injured after shooting in east London</a>

Another first responder, Shari Mendes, who prepares bodies for burial, said her team leader “saw several female soldiers who were shot in the crotch, intimate parts, vagina, or shot in the breast.”

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand described a video of a fresh bloodstain on the crotch of a teenage hostage, visible when she was dragged out of a Jeep in Gaza soon after her abduction, as evidence of sexual assault. She reiterated other speakers calling for activists to condemn Hamas.

Several videos of sexual violence have been made public by Israeli authorities from Oct 7 as captured by Hamas body camera footage, CCTV and material uploaded to social media by civilians and first responders. Testimonies of the Supernova rave attack survivors describe similar stories of women being raped before they were shot.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-taking-matter-seriously-as-india-probes-alleged-assassination-plot-666662">US says taking matter 'seriously' as India probes 'murder plot' against Khalistani terrorist Pannun</a>

A UN commission of inquiry investigating war crimes on both sides of the Israel-Hamas conflict has said it would focus on sexual violence by Hamas in the October 7 attacks on Israel and was about to launch an appeal for evidence, Reuters reported last week.

(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.

The United Nations on Monday heard accounts of brutal sexual violence committed during the Oct 7 attack by Hamas. The meeting was organised by former Meta executive Sheryl Sandberg and was attended by several women’s rights activists, UN officials, Israeli officials and frontline workers.

The United Nations on Monday heard accounts of brutal sexual violence committed during the Oct 7 attack by Hamas. The meeting was organised by former Meta executive Sheryl Sandberg and was attended by several women’s rights activists, UN officials, Israeli officials and frontline workers. Hamas has denied all sexual violence allegations, but many Israeli first responders and women's rights activists have shared gruesome accounts of rape and mutilation. Sandberg told the UN gathering that “silence is complicity.” Also Read | Musk, who warned about 'threats' of AI, seeks to raise $1 billion for his chatbot The crowd of 800 people, including diplomats from dozens of countries, watched videos from police interviews with first responders, describing what they saw on Oct 7 and after that. Speakers present at the gathering also attacked UN Women and the wider women’s rights section to investigate or condemn these crimes. WARNING: Readers may find some of the details in this story distressing. Horrifying accounts of sexual violence from Oct 7 Two first responders from Israel addressed the UN in person. Simcha Grienman, who collected victims’ remains from the sites of attacks, described a woman’s body that he found naked from the waist down, leaning over a bed. The corpse had been booby-trapped with a live grenade, hidden in the woman’s hand, he added. Among the bodies he recovered were two people who had suffered genital mutilation, one a woman who had “nails and different objects” in her genitals, the other so badly damaged “we couldn’t even identify if it’s a man or a woman”. Also Read | UK: Woman killed, two injured after shooting in east London Another first responder, Shari Mendes, who prepares bodies for burial, said her team leader “saw several female soldiers who were shot in the crotch, intimate parts, vagina, or shot in the breast.” Senator Kirsten Gillibrand described a video of a fresh bloodstain on the crotch of a teenage hostage, visible when she was dragged out of a Jeep in Gaza soon after her abduction, as evidence of sexual assault. She reiterated other speakers calling for activists to condemn Hamas. Several videos of sexual violence have been made public by Israeli authorities from Oct 7 as captured by Hamas body camera footage, CCTV and material uploaded to social media by civilians and first responders. Testimonies of the Supernova rave attack survivors describe similar stories of women being raped before they were shot. Also Read | US says taking matter 'seriously' as India probes 'murder plot' against Khalistani terrorist Pannun A UN commission of inquiry investigating war crimes on both sides of the Israel-Hamas conflict has said it would focus on sexual violence by Hamas in the October 7 attacks on Israel and was about to launch an appeal for evidence, Reuters reported last week. (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.

UN hears shocking accounts of sexual violence by Hamas during Oct 7 attacks

Law professors from prestigious US universities have uncovered a surge in short-selling activity just days before a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7th. Their research points to a notable increase in short interest in the MSCI Israel Exchange Traded Fund (ETF), with a sudden spike observed on October 2nd, as per data from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

Israeli authorities probe allegations of insider trading before attack | World Business Watch

Despite war, young malawians are turning to israel for work amid economic crisis at home. Young adults in africa are applying for jobs on israeli farms, many of which desperately need workers following the october 7th hamas attack. However five years ago, it was a different story, many african migrants were being chased out of the nation by force. Most of them seem to have forgotten the past and are willing to stay the course.

Israel-Hamas War: African youth unfazed by the war, seeks opportunities in Israel

The humanitarian crisis is unfolding in south gaza. Living between life and death, displaced gazans say they have nowhere to go. Spokesperson for gaza's health ministry says hospitals in southern gaza have totally collapsed. While the w.H.O. Warns that the situation is getting worse by the hour. What is gazans fate? Will they find refuge?

Israel-Hamas war: Safe Zone in Gaza impossible, says UN

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s trial on corruption charges, which was suspended along with all other non-urgent cases after October 7, resumes today in the Jerusalem District Court. An emergency order that Justice Minister Yariv Levin put in place for the courts when the war with Hamas began expired last week, and most courts have been ordered to resume normal operations.

Netanyahu's corruption trial resumes amid ongoing Israel-Hamas war

Iran is now looking to capitalise on its restored ties with longtime rival, the Sunni powerhouse Saudi Arabia, as well as neighbouring Arab states at a time when Washington-Tehran ties are facing testing times.

Major General Mohammed Hossein Bagheri, chief-of-staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, called Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman&nbsp;to purportedly state Tehran's&nbsp;desire to promote military relations between the two West Asian powerhouses, among other regional matters, according to the official Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).

The Saudi Defence Ministry also acknowledged the call, stating that "bilateral relations between the two countries in the military and defence field were reviewed, and a number of topics of common interest were discussed."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-saudi-arabia-restore-ties-as-china-brokered-deal-outfoxes-west-570766">Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West</a>

A deal brokered in March by China saw Iran and Saudi Arabia restore relations after a seven-year rift.

Besides, Saudi Arabia has also looked to diversify its international relations, by forging closer ties with China and Russia; both of which share close ties with Iran. These bilateral convergences, in fact, have brought&nbsp;Tehran and Riyadh into diplomatic proximity as the latter has successfully dissociated itself from American belligerence in the region against Iran.&nbsp;

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

The latest sign of Riyadh and Tehran's increasing proximity comes amid a&nbsp;flurry of Iranian diplomatic and defence activities playing out during an unprecedented blowout of&nbsp;regional tempers in the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinian group Hamas.

Also watch |&nbsp;Saudi-Iran ties: a new beginning in West Asia?

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The US has heightened its force posture in the Persian Gulf as well as the Eastern Mediterranean in an attempt to deter the conflict from spreading as a growing number of militias, many with ties to Iran.

Iran has protested the presence of US ships operating in nearby waters, including the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Earlier this week, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced that it&nbsp;had sent drones in the Strait of Hormuz&nbsp;amid the operations of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier and its strike group.

The incident was confirmed and described as "unsafe, unprofessional and irresponsible" in a statement issued Wednesday by US Naval Forces Central Command

The US carrier strike group was said to have been "conducting routine flight operations in the international waters of the Central Arabian Gulf when it detected an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)," which was "visually identified as Iranian."

The incident is the latest in a long history of confrontations between US and Iranian vessels operating in a strategic waterway that constitutes one of the world's most important chokepoints for maritime oil traffic.

Iran is now looking to capitalise on its restored ties with longtime rival, the Sunni powerhouse Saudi Arabia, as well as neighbouring Arab states at a time when Washington-Tehran ties are facing testing times.

Iran is now looking to capitalise on its restored ties with longtime rival, the Sunni powerhouse Saudi Arabia, as well as neighbouring Arab states at a time when Washington-Tehran ties are facing testing times. Major General Mohammed Hossein Bagheri, chief-of-staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, called Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman to purportedly state Tehran's desire to promote military relations between the two West Asian powerhouses, among other regional matters, according to the official Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA). The Saudi Defence Ministry also acknowledged the call, stating that "bilateral relations between the two countries in the military and defence field were reviewed, and a number of topics of common interest were discussed." Also read | Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West A deal brokered in March by China saw Iran and Saudi Arabia restore relations after a seven-year rift. Besides, Saudi Arabia has also looked to diversify its international relations, by forging closer ties with China and Russia; both of which share close ties with Iran. These bilateral convergences, in fact, have brought Tehran and Riyadh into diplomatic proximity as the latter has successfully dissociated itself from American belligerence in the region against Iran. What does it mean? The latest sign of Riyadh and Tehran's increasing proximity comes amid a flurry of Iranian diplomatic and defence activities playing out during an unprecedented blowout of regional tempers in the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinian group Hamas. Also watch | Saudi-Iran ties: a new beginning in West Asia? × The US has heightened its force posture in the Persian Gulf as well as the Eastern Mediterranean in an attempt to deter the conflict from spreading as a growing number of militias, many with ties to Iran. Iran has protested the presence of US ships operating in nearby waters, including the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Earlier this week, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced that it had sent drones in the Strait of Hormuz amid the operations of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier and its strike group. The incident was confirmed and described as "unsafe, unprofessional and irresponsible" in a statement issued Wednesday by US Naval Forces Central Command The US carrier strike group was said to have been "conducting routine flight operations in the international waters of the Central Arabian Gulf when it detected an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)," which was "visually identified as Iranian." The incident is the latest in a long history of confrontations between US and Iranian vessels operating in a strategic waterway that constitutes one of the world's most important chokepoints for maritime oil traffic.

Iran, Saudi Arabia discuss scope of improving military ties amid Israel-Hamas war

Mayim Bialik, the actress known for The Big Bang Theory and co-host of Jeopardy!, has voiced her strong criticism on social media, calling out global women's organisations for their noticeable silence surrounding the "systemic rape and torture" of Israeli women during Hamas' attack on October 7.

"These crimes against women were in many cases documented by the terrorists themselves and broadcast for the world to see. Those of us who have fought for women’s rights and have sought to shout from the rooftops when women’s bodies are being used in war for the sadistic pleasure of perpetrators are astounded at how the world has been silent surrounding this," she said.

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There has been an abhorrent and conspicuous absence of women’s organizations around the world unequivocally condemning the systematic rape and torture of women on October 7 by Hamas. Brutal gang rapes, sexual torture, and murder of fetuses happened- period. Where are the “BELIEVE…
— Mayim Bialik (@missmayim) <a href="https://twitter.com/missmayim/status/1728622257042567218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The attack, in which Hamas militants crossed the border and targeted Israeli civilians, resulted in the death of 1,200 Israelis, many of whom were civilians. The Israeli government claimed there were multiple signs of rape, torture, and other atrocities suffered by the victims.

Hamas has denied any involvement in sexual violence. Israel, on its part, has taken steps to bring attention to these alleged atrocities, holding a meeting at the United Nations building in Geneva.

Follow LIVE updates here |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-2-russian-hostages-freed-by-hamas-leave-gaza-664437">Israel-Hamas war</a>

Mayim Bialik also criticised groups such as the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women for their response to the reports. She expressed her astonishment on Twitter at the world's silence.

"The UN (U.N. Women - the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women) took 50 days to express “alarm”," she wrote.&nbsp;

Bialik shared a link to an opinion piece by the First Lady of Israel, Michal Herzog, published in Newsweek and a CNN piece from former Meta COO Sheryl Sandberg.&nbsp;

While the UN human rights office condemned Hamas' attack as "heinous, brutal, and shocking," Israel claims that its attempts to provide evidence to support the allegations have been met with silence.&nbsp;

Mayim Bialik, the actress known for The Big Bang Theory and co-host of Jeopardy!, has voiced her strong criticism on social media, calling out global women's organisations for their noticeable silence surrounding the "systemic rape and torture" of Israeli women during Hamas' attack on October 7.

Mayim Bialik, the actress known for The Big Bang Theory and co-host of Jeopardy!, has voiced her strong criticism on social media, calling out global women's organisations for their noticeable silence surrounding the "systemic rape and torture" of Israeli women during Hamas' attack on October 7. "These crimes against women were in many cases documented by the terrorists themselves and broadcast for the world to see. Those of us who have fought for women’s rights and have sought to shout from the rooftops when women’s bodies are being used in war for the sadistic pleasure of perpetrators are astounded at how the world has been silent surrounding this," she said. There has been an abhorrent and conspicuous absence of women’s organizations around the world unequivocally condemning the systematic rape and torture of women on October 7 by Hamas. Brutal gang rapes, sexual torture, and murder of fetuses happened- period. Where are the “BELIEVE… — Mayim Bialik (@missmayim) November 26, 2023 × The attack, in which Hamas militants crossed the border and targeted Israeli civilians, resulted in the death of 1,200 Israelis, many of whom were civilians. The Israeli government claimed there were multiple signs of rape, torture, and other atrocities suffered by the victims. Hamas has denied any involvement in sexual violence. Israel, on its part, has taken steps to bring attention to these alleged atrocities, holding a meeting at the United Nations building in Geneva. Follow LIVE updates here | Israel-Hamas war Mayim Bialik also criticised groups such as the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women for their response to the reports. She expressed her astonishment on Twitter at the world's silence. "The UN (U.N. Women - the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women) took 50 days to express “alarm”," she wrote. Bialik shared a link to an opinion piece by the First Lady of Israel, Michal Herzog, published in Newsweek and a CNN piece from former Meta COO Sheryl Sandberg. While the UN human rights office condemned Hamas' attack as "heinous, brutal, and shocking," Israel claims that its attempts to provide evidence to support the allegations have been met with silence.

Big Bang Theory star condemns global silence on 'rape and torture' of Israeli women by Hamas

India's daily coronavirus caseload has finally registered a dip. In the last 24 hours, more than 320,000 people have tested positive. It is India's lowest count in 14 days.

Watch:

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For the past two days, new infections have been dropping, with major hotspots&nbsp; Maharashtra, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh reporting a fall in new cases.

The number of active cases have&nbsp;declined as well. It has fallen by 30,000. For the first time in 61 days, India has reported a decline in active cases. It now stands at 3.7 million, almost 20 million people have recovered.

However, there is no fall in the number of fatalities since once again India has reported almost 4,000 deaths in a day.

The pandemic has killed close to 250,000 people in India.&nbsp;The drop in positive cases is a promising sign.&nbsp;However, it cannot be said India has touched the peak. The country's positivity rate remains around 21 per cent, which means more than one out of five people are testing positive.

India needs to bring down the positivity rate to less than five per cent. Only then&nbsp;it will have the second wave be under control.

India needs to test more. On Sunday, India had conducted just 1.47 million tests which is the lowest this month. Monday was an improvement with over 1.8 million tests conducted in the last 24 hours.

In the past two weeks, India has conducted more than 1.9 million tests in a day multiple times. However, the vaccination curve has peaked. The vaccinations were on a high in April.

India has been administering close to two million doses a day with over 170 million shots given so far and just 2.7 per cent of India's population has got both shots.

Maharashtra has stopped vaccination for those above 18. The state says it will only inoculate those above 45 years of age because it does not have enough doses even as the Centre has asked state governments to prioritise those waiting for their second jab.

India's daily coronavirus caseload has finally registered a dip. In the last 24 hours, more than 320,000 people have tested positive. It is India's lowest count in 14 days.

India's daily coronavirus caseload has finally registered a dip. In the last 24 hours, more than 320,000 people have tested positive. It is India's lowest count in 14 days. Watch: For the past two days, new infections have been dropping, with major hotspots Maharashtra, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh reporting a fall in new cases. The number of active cases have declined as well. It has fallen by 30,000. For the first time in 61 days, India has reported a decline in active cases. It now stands at 3.7 million, almost 20 million people have recovered. However, there is no fall in the number of fatalities since once again India has reported almost 4,000 deaths in a day. The pandemic has killed close to 250,000 people in India. The drop in positive cases is a promising sign. However, it cannot be said India has touched the peak. The country's positivity rate remains around 21 per cent, which means more than one out of five people are testing positive. India needs to bring down the positivity rate to less than five per cent. Only then it will have the second wave be under control. India needs to test more. On Sunday, India had conducted just 1.47 million tests which is the lowest this month. Monday was an improvement with over 1.8 million tests conducted in the last 24 hours. In the past two weeks, India has conducted more than 1.9 million tests in a day multiple times. However, the vaccination curve has peaked. The vaccinations were on a high in April. India has been administering close to two million doses a day with over 170 million shots given so far and just 2.7 per cent of India's population has got both shots. Maharashtra has stopped vaccination for those above 18. The state says it will only inoculate those above 45 years of age because it does not have enough doses even as the Centre has asked state governments to prioritise those waiting for their second jab.

Freed hostage says she met Hamas chief Sinwar in Gaza, asked how he wasn't 'ashamed' of himself

Billionaire business magnate Elon Musk received a symbolic dog tag from the father of an Israeli citizen held captive by Hamas in Gaza. Musk has promised to wear the purported dog tag till all the hostages are free.&nbsp;

Musk's visit to Israel comes amid a fragile truce in place between the two warring sides - Israel and Hamas, the latter designated a terrorist group by the US, UK, European Union and Australia. Musk was also recently assailed for an anti-Jewish post on his social media platform X.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Elon Musk visits Israel amid four-day truce in Gaza war

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"Our hearts are hostage in Gaza," read the metal tag he received from Malki Shem-Tov, the father of hostage Omer Shem-Tov, in a video of Musk's visit, issued on Monday by the office of Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

Musk placed it around his neck. Later on Monday, he wrote on X: "I will wear it every day until your loved ones are released."&nbsp;

<h2>Dog tag in Israel amid war with Hamas</h2>

The dog tags, prevalent throughout Israel, mark the October&nbsp;7 killing spree by Hamas. On October 7, around 240 people were taken hostage by Hamas and Palestine Islamic Jihad. On Tuesday (Nov 28), Qatar, one of the two chief mediators -- the other being Egypt -- brokering a truce between Israel and Hamas, claimed that at least 40 hostages have gone missing from the captivity of Hamas. Of these, 30 are now reportedly being held by the Palestine Islamic Jihad group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-delays-dilemmas-and-setbacks-a-look-inside-israel-hamas-hostage-deal-661420">Explained: Delays, dilemmas and setbacks — A look inside Israel-Hamas hostage deal</a>&nbsp;

On November&nbsp;15, Musk posted on X his agreement with a post that falsely claimed Jewish people were stoking hatred against white people, saying the user who referenced the "Great Replacement" conspiracy theory was speaking "the actual truth".&nbsp;

After the post on X, top US companies including Walt Disney, Warner Bros Discovery and NBCUniversal parent Comcast suspended their advertisements on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The White House also slammed Musk for what it&nbsp;described as an "abhorrent promotion of antisemitic and racist hate" that "runs against our core values as Americans".

(With inputs from agencies)

Billionaire business magnate Elon Musk received a symbolic dog tag from the father of an Israeli citizen held captive by Hamas in Gaza. Musk has promised to wear the purported dog tag till all the hostages are free.

Billionaire business magnate Elon Musk received a symbolic dog tag from the father of an Israeli citizen held captive by Hamas in Gaza. Musk has promised to wear the purported dog tag till all the hostages are free. Musk's visit to Israel comes amid a fragile truce in place between the two warring sides - Israel and Hamas, the latter designated a terrorist group by the US, UK, European Union and Australia. Musk was also recently assailed for an anti-Jewish post on his social media platform X. Also watch | Elon Musk visits Israel amid four-day truce in Gaza war × "Our hearts are hostage in Gaza," read the metal tag he received from Malki Shem-Tov, the father of hostage Omer Shem-Tov, in a video of Musk's visit, issued on Monday by the office of Israeli President Isaac Herzog. Musk placed it around his neck. Later on Monday, he wrote on X: "I will wear it every day until your loved ones are released." Dog tag in Israel amid war with Hamas The dog tags, prevalent throughout Israel, mark the October 7 killing spree by Hamas. On October 7, around 240 people were taken hostage by Hamas and Palestine Islamic Jihad. On Tuesday (Nov 28), Qatar, one of the two chief mediators -- the other being Egypt -- brokering a truce between Israel and Hamas, claimed that at least 40 hostages have gone missing from the captivity of Hamas. Of these, 30 are now reportedly being held by the Palestine Islamic Jihad group. Also read | Explained: Delays, dilemmas and setbacks — A look inside Israel-Hamas hostage deal On November 15, Musk posted on X his agreement with a post that falsely claimed Jewish people were stoking hatred against white people, saying the user who referenced the "Great Replacement" conspiracy theory was speaking "the actual truth". After the post on X, top US companies including Walt Disney, Warner Bros Discovery and NBCUniversal parent Comcast suspended their advertisements on X, formerly known as Twitter. The White House also slammed Musk for what it described as an "abhorrent promotion of antisemitic and racist hate" that "runs against our core values as Americans". (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk vows to wear Israeli 'dog tag' until all hostages are freed by Hamas

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar met with Israeli hostages held captive in Gaza following their abduction on October 7, local media in Israel reported Monday (Nov 27).

Sinwar spoke with them in Hebrew without an accent, and the meeting took place in an underground tunnel.

The Hamas chief assured the hostages that they “were safe with them and did not need to fear”, reported Channel 12, adding that the story has been confirmed by the Israeli security establishment.

"Hello, I am Yahya Sinwar. You are the safest here. Nothing will happen to you," he is believed to have said to the hostages, as confirmed by one of the captives released over the weekend.

<h2>Sinwar learnt Hebrew while being in prison</h2>

According to an unsourced report in Haaretz Monday, all hostages present to hear Sinwar were from Nir Oz, a kibbutz that suffered heavy losses on October 7.

After saying these words, he departed.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas truce deal extended by two more days, confirms Qatar

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Sinwar acquired his fluent Hebrew skills during his time in Israeli prison, before being released in a negotiated deal with Hamas back in 2011. He returned to Gaza the same year and now is playing a crucial role in the exchange process in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

Sinwar manages contacts through Qatar, and the assessment is that he aims to stretch the duration of the truce as much as possible, Ynet News reported.

<h2>‘Intelligent man’</h2>

According to Israeli officials' estimates, he is often found alongside other high-ranking Hamas officials in tunnels or subterranean bunkers in the southern part of the Strip.

Even Israeli officials believe he is a very “intelligent person” who spent his days in prison learning as much about Israelis as he could.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-hamas-releases-third-group-of-captives-in-exchange-for-palestinian-prisoners-663167">Also read:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war top developments| Truce extension a glimpse of hope, says UN chief</a>

“He’s a very intelligent person who invested in his intellectual development and in an in-depth understanding of Israeli society,” Betty Lahat, a former warden of Hasharon Prison and head of the Israel Prison Service’s Intelligence Department, had said last year.

He was chosen to lead Hamas in Gaza in 2017, taking over from Ismail Haniyeh.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar met with Israeli hostages held captive in Gaza following their abduction on October 7, local media in Israel reported Monday (Nov 27). Sinwar spoke with them in Hebrew without an accent, and the meeting took place in an underground tunnel.

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar met with Israeli hostages held captive in Gaza following their abduction on October 7, local media in Israel reported Monday (Nov 27). Sinwar spoke with them in Hebrew without an accent, and the meeting took place in an underground tunnel. The Hamas chief assured the hostages that they “were safe with them and did not need to fear”, reported Channel 12, adding that the story has been confirmed by the Israeli security establishment. "Hello, I am Yahya Sinwar. You are the safest here. Nothing will happen to you," he is believed to have said to the hostages, as confirmed by one of the captives released over the weekend. Sinwar learnt Hebrew while being in prison According to an unsourced report in Haaretz Monday, all hostages present to hear Sinwar were from Nir Oz, a kibbutz that suffered heavy losses on October 7. After saying these words, he departed. Watch: Israel-Hamas truce deal extended by two more days, confirms Qatar × Sinwar acquired his fluent Hebrew skills during his time in Israeli prison, before being released in a negotiated deal with Hamas back in 2011. He returned to Gaza the same year and now is playing a crucial role in the exchange process in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Sinwar manages contacts through Qatar, and the assessment is that he aims to stretch the duration of the truce as much as possible, Ynet News reported. ‘Intelligent man’ According to Israeli officials' estimates, he is often found alongside other high-ranking Hamas officials in tunnels or subterranean bunkers in the southern part of the Strip. Even Israeli officials believe he is a very “intelligent person” who spent his days in prison learning as much about Israelis as he could. Also read: Israel-Hamas war top developments| Truce extension a glimpse of hope, says UN chief “He’s a very intelligent person who invested in his intellectual development and in an in-depth understanding of Israeli society,” Betty Lahat, a former warden of Hasharon Prison and head of the Israel Prison Service’s Intelligence Department, had said last year. He was chosen to lead Hamas in Gaza in 2017, taking over from Ismail Haniyeh. (With inputs from agencies)

'Nothing will happen to you,' Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar met Israeli hostages in a tunnel

The Hamas terror group gave away a family of four, including a 10-month-old baby, to another Palestine-based terror organisation in Gaza instead of freeing them, the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) claimed, stoking tensions amongst relatives.

The Bibas family was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz when the Hamas militants rampaged through the Israeli cities bordering the Gaza Strip on October 7.

The family comprised parents Yarden Bibas, 34, and Shiri, 32, and their sons four-year-old Ariel, and 10-month-old baby Kfir, Times of Israel newspaper reported.

While it was expected that they would be among the freed Israelis from Gaza, the Israeli military said that the delay in their release has dampened hopes amidst the truce, which is supposed to see another 20 Israeli hostages freed in exchange for 60 Palestinian inmates.

<h2>Held in southern Gaza</h2>

Taking to social media X, IDF Arabic-language spokesman Avichai Adraee said the family is currently being held in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis.

“Children and babies under the age of one who have not seen the light of day for more than fifty days are being held captive by Hamas, [who] treats some of them like loot and in some places has transferred them to other terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip,” Adraee wrote.

It was unclear exactly when the transfer occurred or which faction was holding them.

Meanwhile, relatives of the family have urged negotiators to "do whatever they can" to get them home.

<h2>Family pleads to Israeli govt&nbsp;</h2>

Yarden's sister, Ofri, called on the Israeli government, Qatar and Egypt—the key negotiators for hostage release—to make sure that her family is on the list of hostages due to be released on Tuesday (Nov 28).

At a news conference, she said that the family "can't stay there anymore" and that every day is a risk for their mental and physical condition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/israel-hamas-war-to-cost-tel-aviv-more-than-50-billion-says-israeli-central-bank-report-663729">Israel-Hamas war to cost Tel Aviv more than $50 billion: Central bank report</a>

"Everyday, there is a danger to their life. They must be released as soon as possible," she told reporters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nothing-will-happen-to-you-hamas-chief-yahya-sinwar-met-israeli-hostages-in-a-tunnel-663684">'Nothing will happen to you,' Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar met Israeli hostages in a tunnel</a>

Ofri said they already know "today they are not included" on the list - and it's her belief that they're having problems reaching them to organise the release.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Hamas terror group gave away a family of four, including a 10-month-old baby, to another Palestine-based terror organisation in Gaza instead of freeing them, the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) claimed, stoking tensions amongst relatives.

The Hamas terror group gave away a family of four, including a 10-month-old baby, to another Palestine-based terror organisation in Gaza instead of freeing them, the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) claimed, stoking tensions amongst relatives. The Bibas family was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz when the Hamas militants rampaged through the Israeli cities bordering the Gaza Strip on October 7. The family comprised parents Yarden Bibas, 34, and Shiri, 32, and their sons four-year-old Ariel, and 10-month-old baby Kfir, Times of Israel newspaper reported. While it was expected that they would be among the freed Israelis from Gaza, the Israeli military said that the delay in their release has dampened hopes amidst the truce, which is supposed to see another 20 Israeli hostages freed in exchange for 60 Palestinian inmates. Held in southern Gaza Taking to social media X, IDF Arabic-language spokesman Avichai Adraee said the family is currently being held in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis. “Children and babies under the age of one who have not seen the light of day for more than fifty days are being held captive by Hamas, [who] treats some of them like loot and in some places has transferred them to other terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip,” Adraee wrote. It was unclear exactly when the transfer occurred or which faction was holding them. Meanwhile, relatives of the family have urged negotiators to "do whatever they can" to get them home. Family pleads to Israeli govt Yarden's sister, Ofri, called on the Israeli government, Qatar and Egypt—the key negotiators for hostage release—to make sure that her family is on the list of hostages due to be released on Tuesday (Nov 28). At a news conference, she said that the family "can't stay there anymore" and that every day is a risk for their mental and physical condition. Also read | Israel-Hamas war to cost Tel Aviv more than $50 billion: Central bank report "Everyday, there is a danger to their life. They must be released as soon as possible," she told reporters. Also read | 'Nothing will happen to you,' Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar met Israeli hostages in a tunnel Ofri said they already know "today they are not included" on the list - and it's her belief that they're having problems reaching them to organise the release. (With inputs from agencies)

Relatives anxious as Hamas transfers family of 4, including 10-month-old baby, to another terror group

Days after Pakistan batter Azam Khan was fined 50 per cent of his match fee&nbsp;for displaying the Palestinian flag on his bat, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a U-turn on its decision.&nbsp;

PCB on Tuesday (Nov 28) released a statement saying it had reviewed the matter and decided to waive the penalty imposed by the match officials.&nbsp;

"Azam Khan's 50 per cent fine imposed by match officials has been reviewed and waived off by the Pakistan Cricket Board," PCB said in a release.&nbsp;

It was during the National T20 Cup 2023-24 match between&nbsp;Karachi Whites and Lahore Blues at the National Stadium in Karachi on Sunday (Nov 26) that Azam was reprimanded for his actions.

Playing for the Whites, the wicketkeeper-batter came out to the crease with his bat sporting a Palestinian flag on the bottom of the spine. It was presumably a way for Azam to show solidarity with the Palestinians who are currently the collateral damage in the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;

The message, however, did not go down well with the match officials as he was found guilty of&nbsp;committing a level-I offence. He violated&nbsp;Article 2.4 of the PCB Code of Conduct For Players and Players Support Personnel for repeated failure to comply with the instruction or directive of an umpire during a match.

According to Geo News, Azam had the same sticker depicting the Palestine flag on his bat in the previous two games of the National T20 Cup. However, no one had warned him before Sunday's game when the picture of his bat went viral on social media.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-pakistan-batter-rizwan-dedicates-win-against-sri-lanka-to-brothers-and-sisters-in-gaza-645247">World Cup 2023: Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan dedicates win against Sri Lanka to 'brothers and sisters' in Gaza</a>

<h2>Rizwan supports Gazans&nbsp;</h2>

While Azam received stick for his actions, similar was not the case when national team wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan came out in support of Gazans.&nbsp;

Notably, during the recently concluded World Cup in India, Rizwan dedicated Pakistan's league match victory against Sri Lanka to the people of Gaza.

"This was for our brothers and sisters in Gaza.&nbsp;Happy to contribute in the win. Credits to the whole team and especially Abdullah Shafique and Hassan Ali for making it easier," Rizwan posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.&nbsp;

After the Sri Lanka match, the wheels came off for the Pakistan team as it lost four successive matches&nbsp;which eventually contributed to the exit from the marquee tournament.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Days after Pakistan batter Azam Khan was fined 50 per cent of his match fee for displaying the Palestinian flag on his bat, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a U-turn on its decision.

Days after Pakistan batter Azam Khan was fined 50 per cent of his match fee for displaying the Palestinian flag on his bat, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a U-turn on its decision. PCB on Tuesday (Nov 28) released a statement saying it had reviewed the matter and decided to waive the penalty imposed by the match officials. "Azam Khan's 50 per cent fine imposed by match officials has been reviewed and waived off by the Pakistan Cricket Board," PCB said in a release. It was during the National T20 Cup 2023-24 match between Karachi Whites and Lahore Blues at the National Stadium in Karachi on Sunday (Nov 26) that Azam was reprimanded for his actions. Playing for the Whites, the wicketkeeper-batter came out to the crease with his bat sporting a Palestinian flag on the bottom of the spine. It was presumably a way for Azam to show solidarity with the Palestinians who are currently the collateral damage in the Israel-Hamas war. The message, however, did not go down well with the match officials as he was found guilty of committing a level-I offence. He violated Article 2.4 of the PCB Code of Conduct For Players and Players Support Personnel for repeated failure to comply with the instruction or directive of an umpire during a match. According to Geo News, Azam had the same sticker depicting the Palestine flag on his bat in the previous two games of the National T20 Cup. However, no one had warned him before Sunday's game when the picture of his bat went viral on social media. World Cup 2023: Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan dedicates win against Sri Lanka to 'brothers and sisters' in Gaza Rizwan supports Gazans While Azam received stick for his actions, similar was not the case when national team wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan came out in support of Gazans. Notably, during the recently concluded World Cup in India, Rizwan dedicated Pakistan's league match victory against Sri Lanka to the people of Gaza. "This was for our brothers and sisters in Gaza. Happy to contribute in the win. Credits to the whole team and especially Abdullah Shafique and Hassan Ali for making it easier," Rizwan posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. After the Sri Lanka match, the wheels came off for the Pakistan team as it lost four successive matches which eventually contributed to the exit from the marquee tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Batter initially fined for displaying Palestine flag on bat has penalty waived by PCB

As the tempest of conflict rages on, the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas momentarily steadies its wavering course. The release of 17 hostages, including 14 Israelis and the first American, marks the third exchange under the four-day truce.

In this uneasy agreement brokered by Qatar, Israel reciprocates by releasing 39 Palestinian prisoners, a tenuous gesture towards reconciling the irreconcilable.

The truce brings a respite that the United States hopes will endure—a hope endeared by many within West Asia and beyond. &nbsp;

<h2>Israel's military objectives vs Hamas</h2>

Despite Israel's relentless bombardment reducing swathes of Gaza to rubble, the claim of eradicating Hamas crumbles under scrutiny. According to Israeli analysts, with 5,000 of Hamas' 25,000 fighters surviving, the militant group stands as a potent, defiant force, defying Israel's military objectives.

Gaza's death toll, an appalling 14,000, starkly contrasts with Israel's official count of 1,200 from Hamas terror attacks, exposing the grotesque asymmetry in this conflict. There is also a growing unease against the rage of Israel as more and more images of Gazans' suffering emerge, highlighting the ever-growing humanitarian crisis.

On the other hand, Hamas, branded a terror group by Israel, the US and European Union, manoeuvres to secure the release of prisoners, and its influence transcends Gaza, prompting a damning reassessment of the purported success of Israel's military campaign.

<h2>The Abyss of Erased Peace: Origins of Discord</h2>

At the heart of this centuries-old conflict is land, but who owns it really? Well, it depends on which side of the world you live in. It's all about perspective, I fear there are no clear answers. In the ancestral lands of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, the notion of peace vanishes from the lexicon of human behaviour.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-13-israelis-4-thai-hostages-freed-from-gaza-39-palestinians-released-under-temporary-truce-662904">Also read:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war top developments: 39 Palestinian prisoners freed from Israeli jails</a>

From the earliest days of ancient empires, where the Persians and Romans grappled for domination, to the colonial shadows cast by the Britishers, this region has endured a crescendo of conquests and conflicts. Uncertainty is the only certainty in the shifting sands of Gaza and West Bank. The intervals between spasms of brutality offer not solace but a squalid, fetid calm laden with toxic potential.

<h2>Netanyahu's Shadow: A Hawk Unmasked</h2>

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, once the embodiment of Israel's security hawks, now stands unmasked in the harsh light of failure. Under Netanyahu's stewardship, Israel not only failed to crush Hamas but unwittingly nurtured the beast. By funelling Qatari funds into Gaza, Israel deluded itself into a false cocoon of security, leaving its citizens to pay a devastating price for this monumental miscalculation.

The Israeli public, weary and disillusioned, clamours for change, with 75 per cent demanding Netanyahu's resignation or replacement—a damning indictment of his leadership.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Gazan use truce to stock up on essentials as final day of Truce begins

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The shock of Hamas' infiltration on October 7 exposed the frailty of Netanyahu's leadership, prompting a surge of criticism. Bibi is now fighting a two-front war—one against Hamas and the other for his own political survival.

<h2>The Enigma of Two States: Shattered Hopes</h2>

As the dust settles in the wake of destruction, the two-state solution, once considered plausible, now grapples with shattered hopes. Territorial disputes, historical grievances, and conflicting narratives cast shadows on the viability of a resolution amid the debris of broken promises.

<h2>The Cease-Fire Respite: A Momentary Pause</h2>

In the midst of chaos, the four-day pause offers a momentary respite. Hostages reunite with families, and the relentless bombings momentarily cease. Yet, it is but a pause, not a solution. Amidst rhetoric of vengeance and destruction from both sides, the question that echoes through the ruins of Gaza and the corridors of power remains—what now?

In this cauldron of uncertainty, where peace seems elusive, the onus lies on both sides to chart a course toward reconciliation. The fragile cease-fire offers a glimpse of what could be a fleeting moment of respite in a region marred by perpetual turmoil. Whether this pause evolves into lasting peace or fades into the annals of temporary truces remains a question that only time, and international diplomatic efforts, can answer. But time doesn't care and diplomacy is often a glamorous word for deceit.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

As the tempest of conflict rages on, the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas momentarily steadies its wavering course. The release of 17 hostages, including 14 Israelis and the first American, marks the third exchange under the four-day truce.

As the tempest of conflict rages on, the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas momentarily steadies its wavering course. The release of 17 hostages, including 14 Israelis and the first American, marks the third exchange under the four-day truce. In this uneasy agreement brokered by Qatar, Israel reciprocates by releasing 39 Palestinian prisoners, a tenuous gesture towards reconciling the irreconcilable. The truce brings a respite that the United States hopes will endure—a hope endeared by many within West Asia and beyond. Israel's military objectives vs Hamas Despite Israel's relentless bombardment reducing swathes of Gaza to rubble, the claim of eradicating Hamas crumbles under scrutiny. According to Israeli analysts, with 5,000 of Hamas' 25,000 fighters surviving, the militant group stands as a potent, defiant force, defying Israel's military objectives. Gaza's death toll, an appalling 14,000, starkly contrasts with Israel's official count of 1,200 from Hamas terror attacks, exposing the grotesque asymmetry in this conflict. There is also a growing unease against the rage of Israel as more and more images of Gazans' suffering emerge, highlighting the ever-growing humanitarian crisis. On the other hand, Hamas, branded a terror group by Israel, the US and European Union, manoeuvres to secure the release of prisoners, and its influence transcends Gaza, prompting a damning reassessment of the purported success of Israel's military campaign. The Abyss of Erased Peace: Origins of Discord At the heart of this centuries-old conflict is land, but who owns it really? Well, it depends on which side of the world you live in. It's all about perspective, I fear there are no clear answers. In the ancestral lands of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, the notion of peace vanishes from the lexicon of human behaviour. Also read: Israel-Hamas war top developments: 39 Palestinian prisoners freed from Israeli jails From the earliest days of ancient empires, where the Persians and Romans grappled for domination, to the colonial shadows cast by the Britishers, this region has endured a crescendo of conquests and conflicts. Uncertainty is the only certainty in the shifting sands of Gaza and West Bank. The intervals between spasms of brutality offer not solace but a squalid, fetid calm laden with toxic potential. Netanyahu's Shadow: A Hawk Unmasked Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, once the embodiment of Israel's security hawks, now stands unmasked in the harsh light of failure. Under Netanyahu's stewardship, Israel not only failed to crush Hamas but unwittingly nurtured the beast. By funelling Qatari funds into Gaza, Israel deluded itself into a false cocoon of security, leaving its citizens to pay a devastating price for this monumental miscalculation. The Israeli public, weary and disillusioned, clamours for change, with 75 per cent demanding Netanyahu's resignation or replacement—a damning indictment of his leadership. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Gazan use truce to stock up on essentials as final day of Truce begins × The shock of Hamas' infiltration on October 7 exposed the frailty of Netanyahu's leadership, prompting a surge of criticism. Bibi is now fighting a two-front war—one against Hamas and the other for his own political survival. The Enigma of Two States: Shattered Hopes As the dust settles in the wake of destruction, the two-state solution, once considered plausible, now grapples with shattered hopes. Territorial disputes, historical grievances, and conflicting narratives cast shadows on the viability of a resolution amid the debris of broken promises. The Cease-Fire Respite: A Momentary Pause In the midst of chaos, the four-day pause offers a momentary respite. Hostages reunite with families, and the relentless bombings momentarily cease. Yet, it is but a pause, not a solution. Amidst rhetoric of vengeance and destruction from both sides, the question that echoes through the ruins of Gaza and the corridors of power remains—what now? In this cauldron of uncertainty, where peace seems elusive, the onus lies on both sides to chart a course toward reconciliation. The fragile cease-fire offers a glimpse of what could be a fleeting moment of respite in a region marred by perpetual turmoil. Whether this pause evolves into lasting peace or fades into the annals of temporary truces remains a question that only time, and international diplomatic efforts, can answer. But time doesn't care and diplomacy is often a glamorous word for deceit. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Hamas is an albatross around Netanyahu's neck

In Pics | Emotional reunion in Israel, West Bank as more hostages, prisoners are released

Last week, we ended The Capitals on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-between-killed-and-killers-dohas-vital-role-for-peace-in-west-asia-660534#google_vignette">note</a> that the Qatar's Prime Minister in capital Doha told the world that they are nearing a deal to free over 240 people held hostage by Hams in Gaza. And that soon, the state of war in West Asia may transform into a terminal conflict.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-between-killed-and-killers-dohas-vital-role-for-peace-in-west-asia-660534#google_vignette">The Capitals: Between killed and killers, Doha's vital role for peace in West Asia</a>

Since Friday (Nov 24), the delicate truce between Israel and Hamas is holding up after seven-week war that began on October 7 after Hamas attacked southern Israel and killed over 1,200 Israelis and took at least 240 people hostage into Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

In response Israel launched an air, artillery and naval bombardment alongside a ground offensive to destroy Hamas, killing nearly 15,000 people, mostly civilians&nbsp;including thousands of children, according to the Hamas government in Gaza.

So far, two set of hostages, mostly children and elderly, have been released by Hamas from inside Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

Relatives voiced joy at the return on Saturday of hostages including a nine-year-old Israeli-Irish girl, and cheering crowds greeted Palestinian prisoners as they left a jail in the West Bank.

But last-minute disagreements during the exact moments of the supposed truce timeline underlined the fragile nature of the process, and that while the truce has held up so far, its extension may not be an easy way forward from either side.&nbsp;

Hamas has released 26 Israeli hostages in exchange for 78 Palestinian prisoners in the two releases already completed.

The militants have also freed a total of 14 Thais and one Filipino and one Russian national.

Hamas is expected to release a total of 50 hostages during the truce in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners.

Besides, Egypt has said that it received positive feedback from both sides about the idea of extending the truce for a day or two and releasing more hostages and prisoners. BBC reported that the truce could extend till the end of next week, that is for a total of five more days.&nbsp;

Both Doha and Cairo are leading negotiations aimed at extending the duration of the initial agreement beyond Monday, potentially paving the way for the release of more hostages and Palestinian prisoners in the days that follow.&nbsp;

"Our hope is that we build on this progress and the momentum of the last 48 hours can be sustained to extend the pause once the current deal expires and lead to further discussions about a more sustainable agreement to end the violence and bloodshed of civilians," a Qatari official was quoted as saying by the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;

The bottomline is that while the extension of current truce between Israel and Hamas appears imminent, Doha and Cairo have to cover few more miles of talks before claiming the milestone of&nbsp;ceasefire.&nbsp;

Last week, we ended The Capitals on the note that the Qatar's Prime Minister in capital Doha told the world that they are nearing a deal to free over 240 people held hostage by Hams in Gaza.

Last week, we ended The Capitals on the note that the Qatar's Prime Minister in capital Doha told the world that they are nearing a deal to free over 240 people held hostage by Hams in Gaza. And that soon, the state of war in West Asia may transform into a terminal conflict. Also read | The Capitals: Between killed and killers, Doha's vital role for peace in West Asia Since Friday (Nov 24), the delicate truce between Israel and Hamas is holding up after seven-week war that began on October 7 after Hamas attacked southern Israel and killed over 1,200 Israelis and took at least 240 people hostage into Gaza Strip. In response Israel launched an air, artillery and naval bombardment alongside a ground offensive to destroy Hamas, killing nearly 15,000 people, mostly civilians including thousands of children, according to the Hamas government in Gaza. So far, two set of hostages, mostly children and elderly, have been released by Hamas from inside Gaza Strip. Relatives voiced joy at the return on Saturday of hostages including a nine-year-old Israeli-Irish girl, and cheering crowds greeted Palestinian prisoners as they left a jail in the West Bank. But last-minute disagreements during the exact moments of the supposed truce timeline underlined the fragile nature of the process, and that while the truce has held up so far, its extension may not be an easy way forward from either side. Hamas has released 26 Israeli hostages in exchange for 78 Palestinian prisoners in the two releases already completed. The militants have also freed a total of 14 Thais and one Filipino and one Russian national. Hamas is expected to release a total of 50 hostages during the truce in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners. Besides, Egypt has said that it received positive feedback from both sides about the idea of extending the truce for a day or two and releasing more hostages and prisoners. BBC reported that the truce could extend till the end of next week, that is for a total of five more days. Both Doha and Cairo are leading negotiations aimed at extending the duration of the initial agreement beyond Monday, potentially paving the way for the release of more hostages and Palestinian prisoners in the days that follow. "Our hope is that we build on this progress and the momentum of the last 48 hours can be sustained to extend the pause once the current deal expires and lead to further discussions about a more sustainable agreement to end the violence and bloodshed of civilians," a Qatari official was quoted as saying by the Wall Street Journal. The bottomline is that while the extension of current truce between Israel and Hamas appears imminent, Doha and Cairo have to cover few more miles of talks before claiming the milestone of ceasefire.

The Capitals: Doha and Cairo's move towards ceasefire between Israel and Hamas

Israel on Friday (Nov 24) freed 39 Palestinian women and children from prisons in exchange for the first wave of hostages released by the Hamas in Gaza.

The detainees were welcomed by cheering crowds across the West Bank and some marching in the street carrying Palestinian flags.

A few of them also carried the flag of the Hamas group amid chants&nbsp;in support of Abu Ubaida, the spokesperson of the group's armed wing.

"I am happy but my liberation came at the price of the blood of the martyrs," said Marah Bakir, 24, referring to the nearly 15,000 deaths across the Gaza Strip that its Hamas-led government says were caused by Israel's military offensive.

Freedom from "the four walls of the prison" is "magnificent", said Bakir, who had been in custody for eight years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-says-in-contact-with-leaders-to-ensure-every-aspect-of-hostage-deal-implemented-662576">US President Joe Biden says in contact with leaders to ensure 'every aspect' of hostage deal implemented</a>

"I spent the end of my childhood and my adolescence in prison, far from my parents and their hugs," she told news agency AFP after returning to her family home in Beit Hanina in annexed east Jerusalem.

"That's how it is with a state that oppresses us."

A total of 39 Palestinian women and minors, who were detained in Israel on various charges, were released under the deal brokered by Qatar to pause the fighting in Gaza.&nbsp;

On the other hand, as a part of the agreement, 24 hostages were released by the Hamas group on Friday, which included 13 Israelis, 10 Thais and a Filipino.

Thirteen Israeli hostages were first handed over to the Red Cross, which then placed them in the custody of Israeli forces after a medical examination.

They entered Egypt through the Rafah crossing and were then handed over to the Israeli forces.

Nearly more than 100 Palestinian prisoners are scheduled to be released over the coming four days and more may be released if the truce is extended.

<h2>Some detainees hail Hamas for their release</h2>

Hanan Al-Barghouti, aged 58, who was released after two months in Israeli custody, praised Hamas, its leader, and the people of Gaza.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-release-13-israeli-hostages-12-thai-nationals-amid-truce-in-gaza-662502">Hamas releases 26 hostages amid temporary truce in Gaza</a>

"May God reward them well on our behalf," news agency AFP quoted her as saying. "If it were not for the people of Gaza, we would not have seen freedom.

"We were inside the prison, eating bitterness. They were sadists. They insulted us and humiliated us, but our pride is high and our dignity is elevated, thanks to the resistance."

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Friday (Nov 24) freed 39 Palestinian women and children from prisons in exchange for the first wave of hostages released by the Hamas in Gaza. The detainees were welcomed by cheering crowds across the West Bank and some marching in the street carrying Palestinian flags.

Israel on Friday (Nov 24) freed 39 Palestinian women and children from prisons in exchange for the first wave of hostages released by the Hamas in Gaza. The detainees were welcomed by cheering crowds across the West Bank and some marching in the street carrying Palestinian flags. A few of them also carried the flag of the Hamas group amid chants in support of Abu Ubaida, the spokesperson of the group's armed wing. "I am happy but my liberation came at the price of the blood of the martyrs," said Marah Bakir, 24, referring to the nearly 15,000 deaths across the Gaza Strip that its Hamas-led government says were caused by Israel's military offensive. Freedom from "the four walls of the prison" is "magnificent", said Bakir, who had been in custody for eight years. Also read: US President Joe Biden says in contact with leaders to ensure 'every aspect' of hostage deal implemented "I spent the end of my childhood and my adolescence in prison, far from my parents and their hugs," she told news agency AFP after returning to her family home in Beit Hanina in annexed east Jerusalem. "That's how it is with a state that oppresses us." A total of 39 Palestinian women and minors, who were detained in Israel on various charges, were released under the deal brokered by Qatar to pause the fighting in Gaza. On the other hand, as a part of the agreement, 24 hostages were released by the Hamas group on Friday, which included 13 Israelis, 10 Thais and a Filipino. Thirteen Israeli hostages were first handed over to the Red Cross, which then placed them in the custody of Israeli forces after a medical examination. They entered Egypt through the Rafah crossing and were then handed over to the Israeli forces. Nearly more than 100 Palestinian prisoners are scheduled to be released over the coming four days and more may be released if the truce is extended. Some detainees hail Hamas for their release Hanan Al-Barghouti, aged 58, who was released after two months in Israeli custody, praised Hamas, its leader, and the people of Gaza. Also read: Hamas releases 26 hostages amid temporary truce in Gaza "May God reward them well on our behalf," news agency AFP quoted her as saying. "If it were not for the people of Gaza, we would not have seen freedom. "We were inside the prison, eating bitterness. They were sadists. They insulted us and humiliated us, but our pride is high and our dignity is elevated, thanks to the resistance." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel frees 39 Palestinian prisoners in Gaza hostage deal

Palestinian prisoners released by Israel as part of a four-day truce with Hamas reached home Friday (Nov 24) and were greeted by celebrations in the West Bank.

A total of 39 prisoners were freed on day one of the truce, and reached home to a heroic welcome, with fireworks clouding the night sky and patriotic Palestinian music exalting the atmosphere.

Some of the prisoners were draped in Palestinian and Hamas flags.

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Celebration in Palestine after the release of Palestinian prisoners. <a href="https://t.co/eKWWZnxKQ6">pic.twitter.com/eKWWZnxKQ6</a>
— Mehfooz (@Mehfooz_zaki) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mehfooz_zaki/status/1728120230923366833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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“Thank you, thank you, Gaza.” chants of young men in Beitunia, Ramallah, in a massive celebration of freed children captives on the streets of Ramallah <a href="https://t.co/jQyUdl6Ea0">pic.twitter.com/jQyUdl6Ea0</a>
— Palestine Captives 𓂆 (@Palestinecapti1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Palestinecapti1/status/1728136304838484071?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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“I have no words, I have no words,” released 17-year-old Jamal Brahma was quoted as saying by Associated Press, as he searched for something to say to the hordes of jostling journalists and thousands of chanting Palestinians, many in national dress. “Thank God,” he managed to utter.

<h2>Israel to release 150 hostages</h2>

Under the deal, Israel will release 150 Palestinian prisoners over the next four days. The truce can be extended an extra day, as per Israel’s offer, for every 10 additional hostages released.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: 300 Palestinian prisoners to be released as people in Gaza await swap deal

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Some of them were accused of staging attacks on Israeli security forces and some were even convicted. Some teenagers were arrested for throwing stones at the IDF, and were charged with ‘supporting terrorism.’

<h2>Israel launches crackdown on celebrations</h2>

As Israeli-controlled West Bank basked in celebrations, Israeli authorities reacted by launching a stiff crackdown.

Israeli security forces at one point unleashed tear gas canisters on the crowds, sending young men, old women and small children sprinting away.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-palestinian-doctor-says-israeli-strike-on-un-school-kills-27-662102">Also read:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war top developments: 13 freed hostages `inside Israeli territory`</a>

“The army is trying to take this moment away from us but they can’t,” Mays Foqaha said as she tumbled into the arms of her newly released 18-year-old friend, Nour al-Taher from Nablus, who was arrested during a protest in September at the Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. ”This is our day of victory.”

Israel currently holds a record 2,200 Palestinians in administrative detention, a policy defended by Israel as a counter-terrorism measure. This has sparked controversy, with Palestinians considering them prisoners of war and allocating public funds for their support, a practice criticised by Israel and the US as an incentive for violence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian prisoners released by Israel as part of a four-day truce with Hamas reached home Friday (Nov 24) and were greeted by celebrations in the West Bank. A total of 39 prisoners were freed on day one of the truce, and reached home to a heroic welcome, with fireworks clouding the night sky and patriotic Palestinian music exalting the atmosphere.

Palestinian prisoners released by Israel as part of a four-day truce with Hamas reached home Friday (Nov 24) and were greeted by celebrations in the West Bank. A total of 39 prisoners were freed on day one of the truce, and reached home to a heroic welcome, with fireworks clouding the night sky and patriotic Palestinian music exalting the atmosphere. Some of the prisoners were draped in Palestinian and Hamas flags. Celebration in Palestine after the release of Palestinian prisoners. pic.twitter.com/eKWWZnxKQ6 — Mehfooz (@Mehfooz_zaki) November 24, 2023 × “Thank you, thank you, Gaza.” chants of young men in Beitunia, Ramallah, in a massive celebration of freed children captives on the streets of Ramallah pic.twitter.com/jQyUdl6Ea0 — Palestine Captives 𓂆 (@Palestinecapti1) November 24, 2023 × “I have no words, I have no words,” released 17-year-old Jamal Brahma was quoted as saying by Associated Press, as he searched for something to say to the hordes of jostling journalists and thousands of chanting Palestinians, many in national dress. “Thank God,” he managed to utter. Israel to release 150 hostages Under the deal, Israel will release 150 Palestinian prisoners over the next four days. The truce can be extended an extra day, as per Israel’s offer, for every 10 additional hostages released. Watch: Israel-Hamas War: 300 Palestinian prisoners to be released as people in Gaza await swap deal × Some of them were accused of staging attacks on Israeli security forces and some were even convicted. Some teenagers were arrested for throwing stones at the IDF, and were charged with ‘supporting terrorism.’ Israel launches crackdown on celebrations As Israeli-controlled West Bank basked in celebrations, Israeli authorities reacted by launching a stiff crackdown. Israeli security forces at one point unleashed tear gas canisters on the crowds, sending young men, old women and small children sprinting away. Also read: Israel-Hamas war top developments: 13 freed hostages `inside Israeli territory` “The army is trying to take this moment away from us but they can’t,” Mays Foqaha said as she tumbled into the arms of her newly released 18-year-old friend, Nour al-Taher from Nablus, who was arrested during a protest in September at the Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. ”This is our day of victory.” Israel currently holds a record 2,200 Palestinians in administrative detention, a policy defended by Israel as a counter-terrorism measure. This has sparked controversy, with Palestinians considering them prisoners of war and allocating public funds for their support, a practice criticised by Israel and the US as an incentive for violence. (With inputs from agencies)

Celebrations break out in West Bank as prisoners reach home to heroic welcome

The Israeli Defense Forces has received a second list of hostages who will be released by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Nov 25) under a truce deal, the office of Israel's prime minister wrote in a statement on Friday.

Israeli security officials were reviewing the list of names which was not made public until the safe release of the hostages, the statement added.

Israel's Hostage Coordinator Brig. Gen. (res.) Gal Hirsch had passed on the information to the families of the captives, the statement said.

In a first batch of swap, Hamas freed a total of 24 hostages which included Israeli women and children and Thai farm workers, and a Filipino&nbsp;who were handed over to Egyptian authorities at the Rafah border crossing, the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-release-13-israeli-hostages-12-thai-nationals-amid-truce-in-gaza-662502">Hamas releases 26 hostages amid temporary truce in Gaza</a>

On the other hand, Israel released 39 Palestinian women and minors, who were detained on various charges, under the deal brokered by Qatar to pause the fighting in Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>Biden says there's 'a real chance' of extending truce</h2>

United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Nov 24) said that the release of the first batch of hostages was just the beginning and that there were "real" chances of the temporary truce in Gaza being extended.

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Beginning today, under the deal reached between Israel and Hamas, fighting in Gaza will halt for four days. 
 
13 Israeli hostages have been released along with several Thai nationals. 
 
And we expect that dozens more, including Americans, will be returned to their families.
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1728181391114858900?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

He also underlined that now was the time to "renew" the efforts to create a two-state solution for peace between Israel and the Palestinians.

"This morning, I've been engaged with my team as we began the first difficult days of implementing this deal. It's only a start, but so far it's gone well. Earlier this morning, 13 Israeli hostages were released, including an elderly woman, a grandmother and mothers with their young children, some under the age of six years old. Separately, several Thai nationals and Filipino nationals were also kidnapped by Hamas on the seventh, they were released as well," Biden said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli Defense Forces has received a second list of hostages who will be released by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Nov 25) under a truce deal, the office of Israel's prime minister wrote in a statement on Friday.

The Israeli Defense Forces has received a second list of hostages who will be released by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Nov 25) under a truce deal, the office of Israel's prime minister wrote in a statement on Friday. Israeli security officials were reviewing the list of names which was not made public until the safe release of the hostages, the statement added. Israel's Hostage Coordinator Brig. Gen. (res.) Gal Hirsch had passed on the information to the families of the captives, the statement said. In a first batch of swap, Hamas freed a total of 24 hostages which included Israeli women and children and Thai farm workers, and a Filipino who were handed over to Egyptian authorities at the Rafah border crossing, the International Committee of the Red Cross. Also read: Hamas releases 26 hostages amid temporary truce in Gaza On the other hand, Israel released 39 Palestinian women and minors, who were detained on various charges, under the deal brokered by Qatar to pause the fighting in Gaza. Biden says there's 'a real chance' of extending truce United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Nov 24) said that the release of the first batch of hostages was just the beginning and that there were "real" chances of the temporary truce in Gaza being extended. Beginning today, under the deal reached between Israel and Hamas, fighting in Gaza will halt for four days. 13 Israeli hostages have been released along with several Thai nationals. And we expect that dozens more, including Americans, will be returned to their families. — President Biden (@POTUS) November 24, 2023 × He also underlined that now was the time to "renew" the efforts to create a two-state solution for peace between Israel and the Palestinians. "This morning, I've been engaged with my team as we began the first difficult days of implementing this deal. It's only a start, but so far it's gone well. Earlier this morning, 13 Israeli hostages were released, including an elderly woman, a grandmother and mothers with their young children, some under the age of six years old. Separately, several Thai nationals and Filipino nationals were also kidnapped by Hamas on the seventh, they were released as well," Biden said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel receives second list of hostages to be released by Hamas on Saturday

In Pics | Relief in West Bank, Israel as Palestinian prisoners, hostages released on day one of truce

In the shadow of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Hollywood's role as a bastion of free expression and diverse perspectives is under scrutiny, revealing a disconcerting bias against those who dare to speak up for Palestinians. While the Israel-Palestine issue is undeniably complex, the punitive measures taken against pro-Palestinian celebrities in Hollywood are raising questions about the industry's commitment to genuine inclusivity and freedom of speech.

Celebrities like Melissa Barrera, Susan Sarandon, and Bella Hadid have found themselves facing professional consequences for daring to take a stand on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Barrera's dismissal from the Scream franchise and Sarandon being dropped by her talent agency, UTA, send a chilling message: expressing pro-Palestinian views may cost you your career in Hollywood.

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It's crucial to acknowledge the complexity of the Israel-Palestine issue, a geopolitical quagmire with deep historical roots and multifaceted layers of conflict. However, Hollywood, an industry that often prides itself on being a liberal haven, should be a place where diverse opinions are not only accepted but encouraged. The apparent silencing of pro-Palestinian voices contradicts the industry's supposed commitment to freedom of expression.

This isn't merely a matter of political correctness; it's a stark departure from Hollywood's self-proclaimed role as a progressive space for social justice causes. The industry has long been a vocal advocate for various movements, championing LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and gender parity. Yet, when it comes to the Israel-Palestine conflict, the same industry appears to have drawn a line in the sand, marking certain perspectives as taboo.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-melissa-barrera-reacts-after-being-fired-from-scream-sets-over-her-pro-palestine-posts-661804">Melissa Barrera reacts after being fired from Scream over her pro-Palestine posts</a>

Contrary to the American far right's claims that Hollywood is a breeding ground for liberal indoctrination, the entertainment industry has not historically been a place where people lose their jobs for speaking their minds. It has thrived on the diversity of thought, providing a stage for artists to voice their opinions on a wide array of issues. However, the current treatment of pro-Palestinian figures challenges this perception, exposing a double standard that undermines Hollywood's credibility as a beacon of progressive values.

In an era where calls for justice and equality echo louder than ever, Hollywood's selective tolerance becomes all the more glaring. The entertainment industry must confront this internal contradiction and reaffirm its commitment to fostering an environment where all perspectives are heard, even when it comes to the contentious and deeply divisive Israel-Palestine conflict.

As we navigate through the fallout of the Israel-Hamas conflict, Hollywood's role in stifling pro-Palestinian voices demands introspection. It's time for the industry to live up to its reputation as a haven for diverse viewpoints and, in doing so, to redefine its commitment to genuine freedom of expression, unbound by geopolitical affiliations.

In the shadow of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Hollywood's role as a bastion of free expression and diverse perspectives is under scrutiny, revealing a disconcerting bias against those who dare to speak up for Palestinians.

In the shadow of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Hollywood's role as a bastion of free expression and diverse perspectives is under scrutiny, revealing a disconcerting bias against those who dare to speak up for Palestinians. While the Israel-Palestine issue is undeniably complex, the punitive measures taken against pro-Palestinian celebrities in Hollywood are raising questions about the industry's commitment to genuine inclusivity and freedom of speech. Celebrities like Melissa Barrera, Susan Sarandon, and Bella Hadid have found themselves facing professional consequences for daring to take a stand on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Barrera's dismissal from the Scream franchise and Sarandon being dropped by her talent agency, UTA, send a chilling message: expressing pro-Palestinian views may cost you your career in Hollywood. It's crucial to acknowledge the complexity of the Israel-Palestine issue, a geopolitical quagmire with deep historical roots and multifaceted layers of conflict. However, Hollywood, an industry that often prides itself on being a liberal haven, should be a place where diverse opinions are not only accepted but encouraged. The apparent silencing of pro-Palestinian voices contradicts the industry's supposed commitment to freedom of expression. This isn't merely a matter of political correctness; it's a stark departure from Hollywood's self-proclaimed role as a progressive space for social justice causes. The industry has long been a vocal advocate for various movements, championing LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and gender parity. Yet, when it comes to the Israel-Palestine conflict, the same industry appears to have drawn a line in the sand, marking certain perspectives as taboo. Also Read | Melissa Barrera reacts after being fired from Scream over her pro-Palestine posts Contrary to the American far right's claims that Hollywood is a breeding ground for liberal indoctrination, the entertainment industry has not historically been a place where people lose their jobs for speaking their minds. It has thrived on the diversity of thought, providing a stage for artists to voice their opinions on a wide array of issues. However, the current treatment of pro-Palestinian figures challenges this perception, exposing a double standard that undermines Hollywood's credibility as a beacon of progressive values. In an era where calls for justice and equality echo louder than ever, Hollywood's selective tolerance becomes all the more glaring. The entertainment industry must confront this internal contradiction and reaffirm its commitment to fostering an environment where all perspectives are heard, even when it comes to the contentious and deeply divisive Israel-Palestine conflict. As we navigate through the fallout of the Israel-Hamas conflict, Hollywood's role in stifling pro-Palestinian voices demands introspection. It's time for the industry to live up to its reputation as a haven for diverse viewpoints and, in doing so, to redefine its commitment to genuine freedom of expression, unbound by geopolitical affiliations.

Hollywood's silence on Palestine: A crack in the façade of free expression?

Israel approved a hostage deal with Palestinian militant-political group Hamas on Wednesday (Nov 22) that was reportedly brokered by Qatar and had been more than a month in the making.&nbsp;

As per latest reports, Hamas would exchange 50 Israeli hostages&nbsp;with Israel for about 150 Palestinian prisoners currently held in custody. Earlier reports had put the number of Israeli hostages to be exchanged as high as 80.

Israel would now commence a four-day pause in fighting in Gaza with the first exchange of hostages likely to take place as early as Thursday (Nov 23), according to the US officials.

Israel would also stop drone overflights for six hours a day. After those days, the pause could be extended a day with each additional 10 hostages Hamas releases.

The Israeli side would also allow the passage to some 300 trucks of aid into Gaza during the days of pause.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-between-killed-and-killers-dohas-vital-role-for-peace-in-west-asia-660534#google_vignette">The Capitals: Between killed and killers, Doha's vital role for peace in West Asia</a>

The United States acknowledged the role played by Doha as well as Cairo in finalising the hostage deal and the planned pause in fighting.&nbsp;

President Joe Biden wrote on X, formerly Twitter: "I thank Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar and President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt for their critical partnership in reaching this deal. And I appreciate Prime Minister Netanyahu's commitment in supporting an extended pause to ensure this deal can be fully carried out."

<h2>Israel-Hamas hostage deal: Why it took 45 days for a deal to be finalised</h2>

The negotiations for the deal began even before Israel began its ground operations in Gaza. The return of hostages was part of US State Secretary Antony Blinken's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shuttle-diplomacy-blinken-meets-jordanian-king-palestinian-president-abbas-in-amman-646310">shuttle diplomacy's agenda</a> as well.&nbsp;

But the explosion inside <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-500-killed-after-israeli-airstrikes-target-hospital-claims-gaza-health-ministry-648141">Ahli Baptist hospital</a> in Gaza&nbsp;on October 17&nbsp;— which according to initial reports killed hundreds (a claim later described as 'vastly exaggerated' by US intelligence) —&nbsp;emerged as the biggest initial impediment for the negotiations aimed at ensuring the return of hostages.&nbsp;

The same hospital explosion upended Biden's wartime visit&nbsp;to West Asia&nbsp;in addition to public antagonism across West Asian capitals against the US&nbsp;over Washington's expressed support for Israeli assault in Gaza.

In the aftermath of Gaza hospital explosion, the Jordanian kingdom cancelled a scheduled four-side summit between Biden, Jordan's King Abdullah II, Egypt's President&nbsp;Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, and the Palestinian Authority leader&nbsp;Mahmoud Abbas.

Thus, Biden could engage only with Israeli leaders during his wartime visit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spotlight-on-washingtons-waning-political-capital-after-gaza-hospital-blast-sinks-bidens-jordan-summit-648187">Spotlight on Washington's waning political capital after Gaza hospital blast sinks Biden's Jordan summit</a>

The current deal, in its form and format, had been on table for about a month, according to the Guardian.

For weeks,&nbsp;Qatar, in coordination with the US was helping facilitate negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the deal that was finally announced on Wednesday.

Qatari capital Doha has been the hub&nbsp;of efforts to de-escalate the war in Gaza. Qatar occupies the position of a pivotal swing state in the West Asia.

The outline of a deal to free women and children held hostage by Hamas, has been&nbsp;put together during weeks of talks in Doha, according to the Washington Post.

<h2>Israel-Hamas hostage deal: What does it mean?</h2>

Bringing the hostages back has been one of the top priorities of Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration despite an unprecedented assault in Gaza aimed at "eliminating Hamas".

But there is a catch.&nbsp;

Hamas is expected to exploit the pause in fighting as an opportunity to regroup. The reported quid pro quo, the extension of pause for the release of each additional 10 hostages, could give&nbsp;Hamas's purported regrouping efforts an edge. It can aggravate the military challenge for Israeli troops operating on ground in Gaza.

Besides, since Israel has famously vowed to eliminate Hamas after equating&nbsp;it with Islamic State terrorist group, the survival of the Palestinian group would not represent a victory for Israel.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel-Hamas hostage deal: End of&nbsp;war in Gaza?</h2>

The deal simply means a pause in fighting for a period of time to facilitate the agreed-upon exchange of hostages and prisoners from either side. It is not a conventional ceasefire. The Israeli forces are still on the ground in Gaza and the deal does not entail anything about them returning to Israel.

Israel has not yet gained full control of northern Gaza where it says Hamas has fostered a web of tunnels to support its militant activities.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israel hostage swap for Palestinian prisoners | World News | WION

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Besides, the United States has said that it will not support a ground offensive in Gaza's south unless Israels ensure better safeguards against civilian casualties.

Notably, Prime Minister Netanyahu has asserted that Israel&nbsp;"will not stop after the ceasefire" and indicated that the fighting will continue after the agreed-upon terms for hostage deal are conclusively honoured by the two warring sides.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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 approved a hostage deal with Palestinian militant-political group Hamas on Wednesday (Nov 22) that was reportedly brokered by Qatar and had been more than a month in the making.

Israel approved a hostage deal with Palestinian militant-political group Hamas on Wednesday (Nov 22) that was reportedly brokered by Qatar and had been more than a month in the making. As per latest reports, Hamas would exchange 50 Israeli hostages with Israel for about 150 Palestinian prisoners currently held in custody. Earlier reports had put the number of Israeli hostages to be exchanged as high as 80. Israel would now commence a four-day pause in fighting in Gaza with the first exchange of hostages likely to take place as early as Thursday (Nov 23), according to the US officials. Israel would also stop drone overflights for six hours a day. After those days, the pause could be extended a day with each additional 10 hostages Hamas releases. The Israeli side would also allow the passage to some 300 trucks of aid into Gaza during the days of pause. Also read | The Capitals: Between killed and killers, Doha's vital role for peace in West Asia The United States acknowledged the role played by Doha as well as Cairo in finalising the hostage deal and the planned pause in fighting. President Joe Biden wrote on X, formerly Twitter: "I thank Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar and President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt for their critical partnership in reaching this deal. And I appreciate Prime Minister Netanyahu's commitment in supporting an extended pause to ensure this deal can be fully carried out." Israel-Hamas hostage deal: Why it took 45 days for a deal to be finalised The negotiations for the deal began even before Israel began its ground operations in Gaza. The return of hostages was part of US State Secretary Antony Blinken's shuttle diplomacy's agenda as well. But the explosion inside Ahli Baptist hospital in Gaza on October 17 — which according to initial reports killed hundreds (a claim later described as 'vastly exaggerated' by US intelligence) — emerged as the biggest initial impediment for the negotiations aimed at ensuring the return of hostages. The same hospital explosion upended Biden's wartime visit to West Asia in addition to public antagonism across West Asian capitals against the US over Washington's expressed support for Israeli assault in Gaza. In the aftermath of Gaza hospital explosion, the Jordanian kingdom cancelled a scheduled four-side summit between Biden, Jordan's King Abdullah II, Egypt's President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, and the Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas. Thus, Biden could engage only with Israeli leaders during his wartime visit. Also read | Spotlight on Washington's waning political capital after Gaza hospital blast sinks Biden's Jordan summit The current deal, in its form and format, had been on table for about a month, according to the Guardian. For weeks, Qatar, in coordination with the US was helping facilitate negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the deal that was finally announced on Wednesday. Qatari capital Doha has been the hub of efforts to de-escalate the war in Gaza. Qatar occupies the position of a pivotal swing state in the West Asia. The outline of a deal to free women and children held hostage by Hamas, has been put together during weeks of talks in Doha, according to the Washington Post. Israel-Hamas hostage deal: What does it mean? Bringing the hostages back has been one of the top priorities of Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration despite an unprecedented assault in Gaza aimed at "eliminating Hamas". But there is a catch. Hamas is expected to exploit the pause in fighting as an opportunity to regroup. The reported quid pro quo, the extension of pause for the release of each additional 10 hostages, could give Hamas's purported regrouping efforts an edge. It can aggravate the military challenge for Israeli troops operating on ground in Gaza. Besides, since Israel has famously vowed to eliminate Hamas after equating it with Islamic State terrorist group, the survival of the Palestinian group would not represent a victory for Israel. Israel-Hamas hostage deal: End of war in Gaza? The deal simply means a pause in fighting for a period of time to facilitate the agreed-upon exchange of hostages and prisoners from either side. It is not a conventional ceasefire. The Israeli forces are still on the ground in Gaza and the deal does not entail anything about them returning to Israel. Israel has not yet gained full control of northern Gaza where it says Hamas has fostered a web of tunnels to support its militant activities. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israel hostage swap for Palestinian prisoners | World News | WION × Besides, the United States has said that it will not support a ground offensive in Gaza's south unless Israels ensure better safeguards against civilian casualties. Notably, Prime Minister Netanyahu has asserted that Israel "will not stop after the ceasefire" and indicated that the fighting will continue after the agreed-upon terms for hostage deal are conclusively honoured by the two warring sides. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Explained: Delays, dilemmas and setbacks — A look inside Israel-Hamas hostage deal

Jamal Muhammad Haniyeh, the oldest grandson of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has been killed in an Israeli attack, multiple media reports said. Jamal Haniyeh was reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike. The air strike took place inside the Gaza Strip. A couple of weeks ago, Roaa Haniyeh, granddaughter of Ismail Haniyeh was killed in a similar bombing. She was a medical student at the Gaza University. It has been reported that Haniyeh has lost more of his relatives in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Israeli fighter jets have also targeted Haniyeh's properties in the Gaza Strip.

Ismail Haniyeh on Tuesday said that Hamas and Israel were close to a hostage exchange and truce deal.

"We are close to reaching a deal on a truce," Haniyeh said, according to the statement, as quoted by AFP.

Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israel's opposition asks Netanyahu to resign

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Hamas fighters crossed the border from the Gaza Strip into Israel on October 7 and as per Israeli estimates, killed 1200 people in addition to taking 240 hostages. Israel has since responded with overwhelming military action and has carried out hundreds of air raids in the Palestinian enclave. Ground assault is ongoing as well with the deployment of tanks and troops. According to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, Israeli military action has caused more than 13,000 deaths, including thousands of children.

Qatar has been mediating between the two warring sides to secure the release of hostages and to take the hostilities down a notch.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-brics-could-help-reach-political-settlement-in-conflict-says-putin-661232">Israel-Hamas war: BRICS could help reach political settlement in conflict, says Putin</a>

There was considerable progress towards striking a deal on Tuesday with even US President Joe Biden hinting that both sides were close to an agreement. On Sunday, Qatar's prime minister said that the deal hinged on some "minor" issues that need smoothening.

AFP quoted sources within Hamas and Islamic Jihad, the group that also took part in the October 7 attacks, to say that both groups had agreed to a truce.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-considers-designating-yemens-houthis-a-terrorist-organization-after-cargo-ship-seizure-661294">US considers designating Yemen's Houthis a terrorist organization after cargo ship seizure</a>

It is being reported that a deal may see Hamas release 50 to 100 hostages. It is, however, opposed to freeing military personnel. Israel on its part, may release 300 Palestinians that are currently in Israeli jails. The deal may also involve food and medical aid to enter Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies)

Jamal Muhammad Haniyeh, the oldest grandson of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has been killed in an Israeli attack, multiple media reports said. Jamal Haniyeh was reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike.

Jamal Muhammad Haniyeh, the oldest grandson of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has been killed in an Israeli attack, multiple media reports said. Jamal Haniyeh was reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike. The air strike took place inside the Gaza Strip. A couple of weeks ago, Roaa Haniyeh, granddaughter of Ismail Haniyeh was killed in a similar bombing. She was a medical student at the Gaza University. It has been reported that Haniyeh has lost more of his relatives in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Israeli fighter jets have also targeted Haniyeh's properties in the Gaza Strip. Ismail Haniyeh on Tuesday said that Hamas and Israel were close to a hostage exchange and truce deal. "We are close to reaching a deal on a truce," Haniyeh said, according to the statement, as quoted by AFP. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israel's opposition asks Netanyahu to resign × Hamas fighters crossed the border from the Gaza Strip into Israel on October 7 and as per Israeli estimates, killed 1200 people in addition to taking 240 hostages. Israel has since responded with overwhelming military action and has carried out hundreds of air raids in the Palestinian enclave. Ground assault is ongoing as well with the deployment of tanks and troops. According to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, Israeli military action has caused more than 13,000 deaths, including thousands of children. Qatar has been mediating between the two warring sides to secure the release of hostages and to take the hostilities down a notch. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: BRICS could help reach political settlement in conflict, says Putin There was considerable progress towards striking a deal on Tuesday with even US President Joe Biden hinting that both sides were close to an agreement. On Sunday, Qatar's prime minister said that the deal hinged on some "minor" issues that need smoothening. AFP quoted sources within Hamas and Islamic Jihad, the group that also took part in the October 7 attacks, to say that both groups had agreed to a truce. Also Read | US considers designating Yemen's Houthis a terrorist organization after cargo ship seizure It is being reported that a deal may see Hamas release 50 to 100 hostages. It is, however, opposed to freeing military personnel. Israel on its part, may release 300 Palestinians that are currently in Israeli jails. The deal may also involve food and medical aid to enter Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh's oldest grandson Jamal killed in Israeli attack: Reports

Actress Susan Sarandon has been dropped by her talent agency after attending a pro-Palestine rally and making comments that didn’t sit down too well with a lot of people. Susan attended a New York City rally in support of Palestine amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

In her speech that has now gone viral, Susan Sarandon said, “There are a lot of people that are afraid, that are afraid of being Jewish at this time.” She added that Jews in America “are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in this country, so often subjected to violence.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-scream-actress-melissa-barrera-dropped-from-next-film-over-support-for-palestine-661344">Scream actress Melissa Barrera dropped from next film over support for Palestine</a>

The actress also recently retweeted a post on X about Roger Waters. The post was about the Pink Floyd musician who came under police investigation on suspicion of "incitement of the people” after wearing Nazi-like imagery in Germany. Sarandon's reshared post read that Waters took the stage in Uruguay to perform “despite attempts by the Israeli lobby to cancel the event.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-tom-cruise-saves-agents-job-after-she-faces-backlash-over-pro-palestine-posts-661390">Tom Cruise saves agent's job after she faces backlash over pro-Palestine posts</a>

Meanwhile, ever since October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas and then subsequent bombing of Gaza by Israel, the US has seen a spike in reports of both anti-Muslim and anti-Jewish bias incidents.&nbsp;

Actress Susan Sarandon has been dropped by her talent agency after attending a pro-Palestine rally and making comments that didn’t sit down too well with a lot of people.

Actress Susan Sarandon has been dropped by her talent agency after attending a pro-Palestine rally and making comments that didn’t sit down too well with a lot of people. Susan attended a New York City rally in support of Palestine amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. In her speech that has now gone viral, Susan Sarandon said, “There are a lot of people that are afraid, that are afraid of being Jewish at this time.” She added that Jews in America “are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in this country, so often subjected to violence.” Also read: Scream actress Melissa Barrera dropped from next film over support for Palestine The actress also recently retweeted a post on X about Roger Waters. The post was about the Pink Floyd musician who came under police investigation on suspicion of "incitement of the people” after wearing Nazi-like imagery in Germany. Sarandon's reshared post read that Waters took the stage in Uruguay to perform “despite attempts by the Israeli lobby to cancel the event.” Also read: Tom Cruise saves agent's job after she faces backlash over pro-Palestine posts Meanwhile, ever since October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas and then subsequent bombing of Gaza by Israel, the US has seen a spike in reports of both anti-Muslim and anti-Jewish bias incidents.

Susan Sarandon dropped by talent agency for pro-Palestine remarks at rally

Separate Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon on Tuesday (Nov 21) killed eight people, including two journalists working for a Lebanese TV channel and a senior Hamas official, according to Lebanese state media and official sources.

The deaths bring those killed in Lebanon since the beginning of hostilities along the border to more than 80 people, mostly fighters from the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah.

Violence along the border broke out after Hamas's Oct. 7 attack. Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah - a Hamas ally - have exchanged rocket fire in fighting that has steadily escalated.

Lebanese broadcaster Al Mayadeen said an Israeli strike on Tuesday near the town of Tir Harfa, about a mile from the Israeli frontier, had killed two of its journalists and a third person at the site where they were filming.

Al Mayadeen accused Israel of deliberately targeting the TV crew because the channel was known to be pro-Palestinian and pro-Iran's regional military alliance.

Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati said in a statement that the strike was an Israeli attempt to silence the media, adding there were "no limits to Israeli crimes".

Israel's military said it was "aware of a claim regarding journalists ... who were killed as a result of (Israeli army) fire."

"This is an area with active hostilities, where exchange of fire occur. Presence in the area is dangerous," it said.

The Israeli military has previously said it cannot guarantee journalists' safety in areas where it is fighting. Israeli authorities have sought to block Al Mayadeen's websites and seize equipment linked to the station.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Tentative details of truce deal on hostages

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Hezbollah said it had retaliated over the killing of the journalists by firing at an Israeli base across the border.

Another Israeli strike on a car about seven miles (11 km) from the border and near the southern city of Tyre killed four people later in the day, Lebanon's state media reported.

Hamas identified one victim as one of its members, saying he was killed while "carrying out his duty" in southern Lebanon. Two Palestinian sources said he was a senior member of the armed wing of Hamas in Lebanon.

An elderly woman was also killed in an Israeli strike on Tuesday morning, according to Lebanon's state media.

Israel-Lebanon border violence has escalated in recent days, raising fears of a widening war in the Middle East that could draw in both the United States and Iran.

It is the worst violence at the border since Israel and Hezbollah fought a war in 2006 and has so far killed more than 70 Hezbollah fighters, 13 Lebanese civilians, seven Israeli troops and three Israeli civilians.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-declares-x-will-donate-its-revenue-to-hospitals-in-israel-and-gaza-661397">Also read:&nbsp;Elon Musk says X will donate ad revenue linked to war to hospitals in Israel and Gaza</a>

Tuesday's deaths add to a toll of more than 50 journalists killed covering the war between Israel and Hamas and its spillover to other parts of the region since Oct. 7, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists.

Reuters visual&nbsp;journalist Issam Abdallah was killed in southern Lebanon on Oct&nbsp;13.

Al Mayadeen named its killed journalists as correspondent Farah Omar and camera operator Rabie al-Memari. The third person killed was Hussein Aqil. Al Mayadeen told Reuters he was not working with the channel.

(With inputs from agencies)

Separate Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon on Tuesday (Nov 21) killed eight people, including two journalists working for a Lebanese TV channel and a senior Hamas official, according to Lebanese state media and official sources.

Separate Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon on Tuesday (Nov 21) killed eight people, including two journalists working for a Lebanese TV channel and a senior Hamas official, according to Lebanese state media and official sources. The deaths bring those killed in Lebanon since the beginning of hostilities along the border to more than 80 people, mostly fighters from the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah. Violence along the border broke out after Hamas's Oct. 7 attack. Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah - a Hamas ally - have exchanged rocket fire in fighting that has steadily escalated. Lebanese broadcaster Al Mayadeen said an Israeli strike on Tuesday near the town of Tir Harfa, about a mile from the Israeli frontier, had killed two of its journalists and a third person at the site where they were filming. Al Mayadeen accused Israel of deliberately targeting the TV crew because the channel was known to be pro-Palestinian and pro-Iran's regional military alliance. Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati said in a statement that the strike was an Israeli attempt to silence the media, adding there were "no limits to Israeli crimes". Israel's military said it was "aware of a claim regarding journalists ... who were killed as a result of (Israeli army) fire." "This is an area with active hostilities, where exchange of fire occur. Presence in the area is dangerous," it said. The Israeli military has previously said it cannot guarantee journalists' safety in areas where it is fighting. Israeli authorities have sought to block Al Mayadeen's websites and seize equipment linked to the station. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: Tentative details of truce deal on hostages × Hezbollah said it had retaliated over the killing of the journalists by firing at an Israeli base across the border. Another Israeli strike on a car about seven miles (11 km) from the border and near the southern city of Tyre killed four people later in the day, Lebanon's state media reported. Hamas identified one victim as one of its members, saying he was killed while "carrying out his duty" in southern Lebanon. Two Palestinian sources said he was a senior member of the armed wing of Hamas in Lebanon. An elderly woman was also killed in an Israeli strike on Tuesday morning, according to Lebanon's state media. Israel-Lebanon border violence has escalated in recent days, raising fears of a widening war in the Middle East that could draw in both the United States and Iran. It is the worst violence at the border since Israel and Hezbollah fought a war in 2006 and has so far killed more than 70 Hezbollah fighters, 13 Lebanese civilians, seven Israeli troops and three Israeli civilians. Also read: Elon Musk says X will donate ad revenue linked to war to hospitals in Israel and Gaza Tuesday's deaths add to a toll of more than 50 journalists killed covering the war between Israel and Hamas and its spillover to other parts of the region since Oct. 7, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. Reuters visual journalist Issam Abdallah was killed in southern Lebanon on Oct 13. Al Mayadeen named its killed journalists as correspondent Farah Omar and camera operator Rabie al-Memari. The third person killed was Hussein Aqil. Al Mayadeen told Reuters he was not working with the channel. (With inputs from agencies)

2 journalists, Hamas terrorist killed in Israeli strikes on Lebanon

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