<p>US President Joe Biden, in his address from the Oval Office, slammed 'terrorists like Hamas and tyrants like Putin' and hailed the US as a 'beacon to the world', despite a chequered American interventionist record abroad that has left a trail of anarchy-fueled terrorism in West Asia and Afghanistan during the&nbsp;formative decades of the 21st century.</p>

<p>Biden's address came after his wartime visit to West Asia that was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spotlight-on-washingtons-waning-political-capital-after-gaza-hospital-blast-sinks-bidens-jordan-summit-648187">forced to be cut down to only Israel</a> after Jordan called off a four-way summit between the top leaders of Washington, Amman, Cairo and Ramallah—the de-facto administrative capital of Palestine Authority. The development emerged as a setback for the Biden administration which had deployed its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shuttle-diplomacy-blinken-meets-jordanian-king-palestinian-president-abbas-in-amman-646310">Secretary of State Antony Blinken for engagements in the region</a> in the immediate days following the beginning of the war between Israel and the Hamas militant group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden said that during his visit to Israel, he told the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that "we cannot give up on peace" while referring to the purported&nbsp;"mistakes" the US made in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. The "mistakes" that Biden referred to, include an invasion of Iraq under the false pretext of Weapons of Mass Destruction that left over 300,000 Iraqis dead, according to Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs.</p>

<p>This was preceded by an invasion of Afghanistan as a "war against terror" that concluded twenty years later in August 2021 following a devastating American withdrawal that reinstated hardliner Taliban as the country's rulers.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biden hails India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor amid Israel-Hamas war</strong></h2>

<p>Biden, however, hailed the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-middle-east-europe-economic-corridor-to-change-the-face-of-the-middle-east-israel-pm-634703">India-Middle East-Europe economic&nbsp;corridor</a>&nbsp;-- announced earlier this year at the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-delhi-delivers-as-the-voice-of-global-south-634649">New Delhi G20 summit</a> --&nbsp;as a project that is aimed at building a "better future for the Middle East", and the one that will make West Asia "more stable, better connected to its neighbours".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden said that with the "innovative projects such as India-Middle East-Europe economic&nbsp;corridor that we announced earlier this year in the summit of the world's biggest economies", the region will benefit with&nbsp;"predictable markets, more employment, less rage and less grievances."</p>

<p>"It benefits the people of the Middle East. It benefits us."</p>

<h2><strong>Russia and Hamas are out to 'annihilate' democracies: Biden</strong></h2>

<p>Biden on Thursday (October 19) claimed that&nbsp;Hamas and Russia are both out to "annihilate" democracies and made the case for assistance to Ukraine and Israel as a vital US interest.</p>

<p>Hamas and Russian President Vladimir Putin "represent different threats but they share this in common: they both want to completely annihilate a neighbouring democracy," Biden said.</p>

<p>Biden said that&nbsp;he would ask the US Congress&nbsp;to approve massive funding to help Ukraine and Israel, stating that it would become&nbsp;an investment that would strengthen the United States' future as a global leader.</p>

<p>"It is a smart investment that's going to pay dividends for American security for generations," Biden said.</p>

<p>"America is a beacon to the world. Still. Still," he said.</p>

<p>The White House is reportedly preparing a huge request to Congress for a $100 billion package that would include funding for Israel in its war against&nbsp;Hamas and also for Ukraine amid its war with Russia.</p>

<p>Right before the speech, Joe Biden spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.</p>

<p><strong>Also read :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-attacks-russian-targets-with-missile-system-covertly-given-by-the-us-648172">Ukraine attacks Russian targets with missile system secretly given by the US</a></strong></p>

<p>In Tel Aviv on Wednesday, Biden backed Israel's effort to dismantle Hamas&nbsp;after the October 7 attacks by the Palestinian group left more than 1,400 Israeli civilians dead.</p>

<p>Biden is credited with having brokered a deal to get limited aid through Egypt into the Gaza Strip, where Israeli bombing since has killed at least 3,785 Palestinians, most of them civilians, according to the Hamas-controlled health ministry.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


US President Joe Biden, in his address from the Oval Office, slammed 'terrorists like Hamas and tyrants like Putin' and hailed the US as a 'beacon to the world', despite a chequered American interventionist record abroad that has left a trail of anarchy-fueled terrorism in West Asia and Afghanistan during the formative decades of the 21st century.

US President Joe Biden, in his address from the Oval Office, slammed 'terrorists like Hamas and tyrants like Putin' and hailed the US as a 'beacon to the world', despite a chequered American interventionist record abroad that has left a trail of anarchy-fueled terrorism in West Asia and Afghanistan during the formative decades of the 21st century. Biden's address came after his wartime visit to West Asia that was forced to be cut down to only Israel after Jordan called off a four-way summit between the top leaders of Washington, Amman, Cairo and Ramallah—the de-facto administrative capital of Palestine Authority. The development emerged as a setback for the Biden administration which had deployed its Secretary of State Antony Blinken for engagements in the region in the immediate days following the beginning of the war between Israel and the Hamas militant group. Biden said that during his visit to Israel, he told the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that "we cannot give up on peace" while referring to the purported "mistakes" the US made in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. The "mistakes" that Biden referred to, include an invasion of Iraq under the false pretext of Weapons of Mass Destruction that left over 300,000 Iraqis dead, according to Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs. This was preceded by an invasion of Afghanistan as a "war against terror" that concluded twenty years later in August 2021 following a devastating American withdrawal that reinstated hardliner Taliban as the country's rulers. Biden hails India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor amid Israel-Hamas war Biden, however, hailed the India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor -- announced earlier this year at the New Delhi G20 summit -- as a project that is aimed at building a "better future for the Middle East", and the one that will make West Asia "more stable, better connected to its neighbours". Biden said that with the "innovative projects such as India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor that we announced earlier this year in the summit of the world's biggest economies", the region will benefit with "predictable markets, more employment, less rage and less grievances." "It benefits the people of the Middle East. It benefits us." Russia and Hamas are out to 'annihilate' democracies: Biden Biden on Thursday (October 19) claimed that Hamas and Russia are both out to "annihilate" democracies and made the case for assistance to Ukraine and Israel as a vital US interest. Hamas and Russian President Vladimir Putin "represent different threats but they share this in common: they both want to completely annihilate a neighbouring democracy," Biden said. Biden said that he would ask the US Congress to approve massive funding to help Ukraine and Israel, stating that it would become an investment that would strengthen the United States' future as a global leader. "It is a smart investment that's going to pay dividends for American security for generations," Biden said. "America is a beacon to the world. Still. Still," he said. The White House is reportedly preparing a huge request to Congress for a $100 billion package that would include funding for Israel in its war against Hamas and also for Ukraine amid its war with Russia. Right before the speech, Joe Biden spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Also read : Ukraine attacks Russian targets with missile system secretly given by the US In Tel Aviv on Wednesday, Biden backed Israel's effort to dismantle Hamas after the October 7 attacks by the Palestinian group left more than 1,400 Israeli civilians dead. Biden is credited with having brokered a deal to get limited aid through Egypt into the Gaza Strip, where Israeli bombing since has killed at least 3,785 Palestinians, most of them civilians, according to the Hamas-controlled health ministry. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: Joe Biden's wartime address hails India-Middle East-Europe corridor

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing massive heat over the apparent security lapse over the Oct 7 Hamas terror attack, on Sunday (Oct 29) shifted the blame at his intelligence chiefs saying that he was never warned of an all-front attack.</p>

<p>This comes after the heads of the military, the domestic spy agency Shin Bet and even the finance minister, all acknowledged their failures, except Netanyahu.</p>

<p>In a post on social media X, which has since been deleted, the PM, who is also referred to as Bibi by his supporters, said, “At no time and no stage was a warning given to Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding war intentions of Hamas. On the contrary, all security officials, including the head of army intelligence and the head of the Shin Bet, estimated that Hamas was deterred and interested in an arrangement."</p>

<p>He had posted on social media after a joint press conference with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Minister Benny Gantz.</p>

<h2><strong>Massive uproar&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>However, this post caused massive uproar among the political establishment and the public, and even among his cabinet, forcing Netanyahu to withdraw his statement and issue a rare apology hours later.</p>

<p>“I was wrong. The things I said following the press conference should not have been said and I apologize for that.”</p>

<p>“I give full backing to all the heads of the security services. I am sending strength to the [IDF] chief of staff and the commanders and soldiers of the IDF who are on the frontlines and fighting for our home.”</p>

<h2><strong>Cabinet minister, ex-Mossad chief&nbsp;criticise&nbsp;PM</strong></h2>

<p>The first rebuke came from Cabinet minister Gantz asking Netanyahu to retract his statement.</p>

<p>“On this morning in particular, I want to support and strengthen all the security forces and IDF soldiers, including the IDF chief of staff, the head of military intelligence, the head of the Shin Bet,” Gantz added. “When we are at war, leadership must display responsibility, make the correct decisions and strengthen the forces in a way that they will understand what we demand from them… the prime minister must retract his statement.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flood-brooklyn-for-gaza-rally-held-by-thousands-in-support-of-palestinians-652606">'Flood Brooklyn for Gaza' rally held by thousands in support of Palestinians</a></p>

<p>Opposition Leader Yair Lapid, who has refused to join the emergency war government, tweeted that “Netanyahu crossed a red line tonight” and must apologise.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-snake-will-remain-a-snake-israeli-envoy-to-un-slams-erdogan-as-relations-with-turkey-plummet-652476">'A snake will remain a snake': Israeli envoy to UN slams Erdogan as relations with Turkey plummet</a></p>

<p>Former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen, considered a close Netanyahu ally, said on Sunday to Kan public radio, “Responsibility is something you take at the start of your job, not midway.” Cohen noted that when he led the Mossad, “Everything that happened in the agency, from top to bottom, was my responsibility.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing massive heat over the apparent security lapse over the Oct 7 Hamas terror attack, on Sunday (Oct 29) shifted the blame at his intelligence chiefs saying that he was never warned of an all-front attack.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing massive heat over the apparent security lapse over the Oct 7 Hamas terror attack, on Sunday (Oct 29) shifted the blame at his intelligence chiefs saying that he was never warned of an all-front attack. This comes after the heads of the military, the domestic spy agency Shin Bet and even the finance minister, all acknowledged their failures, except Netanyahu. In a post on social media X, which has since been deleted, the PM, who is also referred to as Bibi by his supporters, said, “At no time and no stage was a warning given to Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding war intentions of Hamas. On the contrary, all security officials, including the head of army intelligence and the head of the Shin Bet, estimated that Hamas was deterred and interested in an arrangement." He had posted on social media after a joint press conference with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Minister Benny Gantz. Massive uproar However, this post caused massive uproar among the political establishment and the public, and even among his cabinet, forcing Netanyahu to withdraw his statement and issue a rare apology hours later. “I was wrong. The things I said following the press conference should not have been said and I apologize for that.” “I give full backing to all the heads of the security services. I am sending strength to the [IDF] chief of staff and the commanders and soldiers of the IDF who are on the frontlines and fighting for our home.” Cabinet minister, ex-Mossad chief criticise PM The first rebuke came from Cabinet minister Gantz asking Netanyahu to retract his statement. “On this morning in particular, I want to support and strengthen all the security forces and IDF soldiers, including the IDF chief of staff, the head of military intelligence, the head of the Shin Bet,” Gantz added. “When we are at war, leadership must display responsibility, make the correct decisions and strengthen the forces in a way that they will understand what we demand from them… the prime minister must retract his statement.” Also read | 'Flood Brooklyn for Gaza' rally held by thousands in support of Palestinians Opposition Leader Yair Lapid, who has refused to join the emergency war government, tweeted that “Netanyahu crossed a red line tonight” and must apologise. Also read | 'A snake will remain a snake': Israeli envoy to UN slams Erdogan as relations with Turkey plummet Former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen, considered a close Netanyahu ally, said on Sunday to Kan public radio, “Responsibility is something you take at the start of your job, not midway.” Cohen noted that when he led the Mossad, “Everything that happened in the agency, from top to bottom, was my responsibility.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu blames security chiefs over Hamas attack, deletes post after uproar

<p>In an overnight operation, IDF fighter jets targeted and killed Asem Abu Rakaba, who served as the Head of Hamas' Aerial Array. Rakaba held responsibility for overseeing Hamas' UAVs, drones, paragliders, as well as aerial detection and defense systems, the Israeli Defense Forces said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was also notably involved in planning the October 7 attack on Israel and commanded the group of terrorists who made incursion into Israel using paragliders.&nbsp;Additionally, he was responsible for coordinating drone attacks on IDF posts, the IDF said in the post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-adopts-resolution-calling-for-humanitarian-truce-between-israel-and-hamas-heres-what-happened-652178">UN adopts resolution calling for ‘humanitarian truce’ between Israel and Hamas. Here's what happened</a></p>

<p>"Overnight, IDF fighter jets struck Asem Abu Rakaba, the Head of Hamas' Aerial Array. Abu Rakaba was responsible for Hamas' UAVs, drones, paragliders, aerial detection and defense. He took part in planning the October 7 massacre and commanded the terrorists who infiltrated Israel on paragliders and was responsible for the drone attacks on IDF posts," IDF said in a post on Saturday (Oct 28) morning.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Overnight, IDF fighter jets struck Asem Abu Rakaba, the Head of Hamas' Aerial Array.<br />
<br />
Abu Rakaba was responsible for Hamas' UAVs, drones, paragliders, aerial detection and defense.<br />
<br />
He took part in planning the October 7 massacre and commanded the terrorists who infiltrated…</p>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1718127571554947394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Israel has escalated its ground offensive against Hamas militants in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a night of intense airstrikes in its war against Hamas, the Israeli military also released footage of fighter jets taking off on a mission to target 150 "underground targets" in northern Gaza from where IDF has asked the civilians to move towards southern parts of Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-defends-ties-with-russia-says-us-criticism-distorted-652161">North Korea defends ties with Russia, says US criticism 'distorted'</a></p>

<p>Earlier, releasing footage of what it claimed to be a safe haven for Hamas terrorists under the Shifa Hospital in Gaza, the IDF said that the largest medical facility in the region is alleged to be used for Hamas terror activities.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-strikes-syria-will-yemen-now-join-hamas-war-652180">Israel strikes Syria, will Yemen now join Hamas' war?</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-strikes-syria-will-yemen-now-join-hamas-war-652180/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The IDF asserted that they will take action to uncover any potential terrorist infrastructure under the hospital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United Nations General Assembly, on October 27, overwhelmingly approved the Jordanian resolution, which called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The resolution also sought for the unhindered supply of aid to Gaza and the protection of civilians.</p>

<p>In contrast, the resolution put forward by Canada, supported by 35 member states, including the United States, which aimed to condemn Hamas for its attacks on southern Israel on October 7, did not receive enough votes to pass.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


In an overnight operation, IDF fighter jets targeted and killed Asem Abu Rakaba, who served as the Head of Hamas' Aerial Array. Rakaba held responsibility for overseeing Hamas' UAVs, drones, paragliders, as well as aerial detection and defense systems, the Israeli Defense Forces said.

In an overnight operation, IDF fighter jets targeted and killed Asem Abu Rakaba, who served as the Head of Hamas' Aerial Array. Rakaba held responsibility for overseeing Hamas' UAVs, drones, paragliders, as well as aerial detection and defense systems, the Israeli Defense Forces said. He was also notably involved in planning the October 7 attack on Israel and commanded the group of terrorists who made incursion into Israel using paragliders. Additionally, he was responsible for coordinating drone attacks on IDF posts, the IDF said in the post. Also Read | UN adopts resolution calling for ‘humanitarian truce’ between Israel and Hamas. Here's what happened "Overnight, IDF fighter jets struck Asem Abu Rakaba, the Head of Hamas' Aerial Array. Abu Rakaba was responsible for Hamas' UAVs, drones, paragliders, aerial detection and defense. He took part in planning the October 7 massacre and commanded the terrorists who infiltrated Israel on paragliders and was responsible for the drone attacks on IDF posts," IDF said in a post on Saturday (Oct 28) morning. Overnight, IDF fighter jets struck Asem Abu Rakaba, the Head of Hamas' Aerial Array. Abu Rakaba was responsible for Hamas' UAVs, drones, paragliders, aerial detection and defense. He took part in planning the October 7 massacre and commanded the terrorists who infiltrated… — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 28, 2023 × Israel has escalated its ground offensive against Hamas militants in Gaza. During a night of intense airstrikes in its war against Hamas, the Israeli military also released footage of fighter jets taking off on a mission to target 150 "underground targets" in northern Gaza from where IDF has asked the civilians to move towards southern parts of Gaza. Also Read | North Korea defends ties with Russia, says US criticism 'distorted' Earlier, releasing footage of what it claimed to be a safe haven for Hamas terrorists under the Shifa Hospital in Gaza, the IDF said that the largest medical facility in the region is alleged to be used for Hamas terror activities. Watch | Israel strikes Syria, will Yemen now join Hamas' war? × The IDF asserted that they will take action to uncover any potential terrorist infrastructure under the hospital. The United Nations General Assembly, on October 27, overwhelmingly approved the Jordanian resolution, which called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The resolution also sought for the unhindered supply of aid to Gaza and the protection of civilians. In contrast, the resolution put forward by Canada, supported by 35 member states, including the United States, which aimed to condemn Hamas for its attacks on southern Israel on October 7, did not receive enough votes to pass. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

IDF fighter jets eliminate Hamas' air chief Abu Rakaba in Gaza, confirms Israel

<p>India abstained from voting in the UN General Assembly on Friday (Oct 27) on a Jordan-led resolution that had no mention of Hamas in it.&nbsp;The resolution sought a ceasefire in Gaza and "unhindered" humanitarian access to the war-ravaged region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While explaining India's decision to abstain from voting, India's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations Yojna Patel said that there is no justification for terror and the country is shocked by the October 7 terror attack on Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India also called for the release of hostages held captive in Gaza by the Hamas Islamist terror group and welcomed all the efforts of de-escalation of tensions terming the humanitarian crisis in Gaza concerning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-eu-ambassador-herve-delphin-upbeat-on-ascending-ties-with-india-and-fta-talks-652065">New EU Ambassador Hervé Delphin upbeat on 'ascending' ties with India and FTA talks</a></p>

<p>The envoy also restated India's two-state solution for the long-standing Israel-Palestine conflict.&nbsp;Over 1,400 people were reportedly killed in Israel after the brutal onslaught by the Palestinian terror group Hamas.</p>

<p>To find a resolution to the ongoing Israel-Hams war, UNGA's 193 members met in the emergency special session to vote on a&nbsp;resolution moved by Jordan which had the backing of over 40 countries, including Bangladesh, Pakistan, Maldives, South Africa, and Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Resolution adopted with 120 nations voting 'yes'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The "Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations" resolution was adopted with 120 nations voting 'Yes', 14 'No', and 45 abstaining.<br />
<br />
In addition to India, other countries including Australia, Germany, Canada, Japan, Ukraine and the UK also abstained from voting on the resolution. The US said that not mentioning Hamas in the resolution is equated to "omission of evil".</p>

<h2><strong>Canadian amendments to resolution</strong></h2>

<p>Prior to the voting, an amendment proposed by Canada and backed by the US was considered. India voted yes for the Canadian amendment to Jordanian proposal on Israel Palestine resolution that condemned the Hamas terror attack on Israel. However the resolution was not adopted since it did not get a 2/3rd vote in UNGA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tata-to-manufacture-iphones-for-domestic-and-global-markets-in-india-651976">India's Tata group to manufacture iPhones for domestic and global markets</a></p>

<p>At the UN, India abstained from the Jordanian resolution that did not explicitly condemn Hamas terror attacks on Israel but supported the Canadian amendment that did the same.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-medical-facilities-overwhelmed-infants-suffer-due-to-lack-of-nutrition-necessities-wion-652113">Gaza medical facilities overwhelmed; infants suffer due to lack of nutrition &amp; necessities | WION</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-medical-facilities-overwhelmed-infants-suffer-due-to-lack-of-nutrition-necessities-wion-652113/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The amendment called for adding para to the resolution that says "unequivocally rejects and condemns the terrorist attacks by Hamas that took place in Israel starting on 7 October 2023 and the taking of hostages, demands the safety, well-being and humane treatment of the hostages in compliance with international law, and calls for their immediate and unconditional release".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


India abstained from voting in the UN General Assembly on Friday (Oct 27) on a Jordan-led resolution that had no mention of Hamas in it. The resolution sought a ceasefire in Gaza and "unhindered" humanitarian access to the war-ravaged region.

India abstained from voting in the UN General Assembly on Friday (Oct 27) on a Jordan-led resolution that had no mention of Hamas in it. The resolution sought a ceasefire in Gaza and "unhindered" humanitarian access to the war-ravaged region. While explaining India's decision to abstain from voting, India's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations Yojna Patel said that there is no justification for terror and the country is shocked by the October 7 terror attack on Israel. India also called for the release of hostages held captive in Gaza by the Hamas Islamist terror group and welcomed all the efforts of de-escalation of tensions terming the humanitarian crisis in Gaza concerning. Also Read | New EU Ambassador Hervé Delphin upbeat on 'ascending' ties with India and FTA talks The envoy also restated India's two-state solution for the long-standing Israel-Palestine conflict. Over 1,400 people were reportedly killed in Israel after the brutal onslaught by the Palestinian terror group Hamas. To find a resolution to the ongoing Israel-Hams war, UNGA's 193 members met in the emergency special session to vote on a resolution moved by Jordan which had the backing of over 40 countries, including Bangladesh, Pakistan, Maldives, South Africa, and Russia. Resolution adopted with 120 nations voting 'yes' The "Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations" resolution was adopted with 120 nations voting 'Yes', 14 'No', and 45 abstaining. In addition to India, other countries including Australia, Germany, Canada, Japan, Ukraine and the UK also abstained from voting on the resolution. The US said that not mentioning Hamas in the resolution is equated to "omission of evil". Canadian amendments to resolution Prior to the voting, an amendment proposed by Canada and backed by the US was considered. India voted yes for the Canadian amendment to Jordanian proposal on Israel Palestine resolution that condemned the Hamas terror attack on Israel. However the resolution was not adopted since it did not get a 2/3rd vote in UNGA. Also Read | India's Tata group to manufacture iPhones for domestic and global markets At the UN, India abstained from the Jordanian resolution that did not explicitly condemn Hamas terror attacks on Israel but supported the Canadian amendment that did the same. Watch | Gaza medical facilities overwhelmed; infants suffer due to lack of nutrition & necessities | WION × The amendment called for adding para to the resolution that says "unequivocally rejects and condemns the terrorist attacks by Hamas that took place in Israel starting on 7 October 2023 and the taking of hostages, demands the safety, well-being and humane treatment of the hostages in compliance with international law, and calls for their immediate and unconditional release". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

India abstains from UNGA vote on Jordan-led truce resolution that didn't mention Hamas

<p>India abstained from voting in the UN General Assembly on Friday (Oct 27) on a Jordan-led resolution that had no mention of Hamas in it.&nbsp;The resolution sought a ceasefire in Gaza and "unhindered" humanitarian access to the war-ravaged region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While explaining India's decision to abstain from voting, India's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations Yojna Patel said that there is no justification for terror and the country is shocked by the October 7 terror attack on Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India also called for the release of hostages held captive in Gaza by the Hamas Islamist terror group and welcomed all the efforts of de-escalation of tensions terming the humanitarian crisis in Gaza concerning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-eu-ambassador-herve-delphin-upbeat-on-ascending-ties-with-india-and-fta-talks-652065">New EU Ambassador Hervé Delphin upbeat on 'ascending' ties with India and FTA talks</a></p>

<p>The envoy also restated India's two-state solution for the long-standing Israel-Palestine conflict.&nbsp;Over 1,400 people were reportedly killed in Israel after the brutal onslaught by the Palestinian terror group Hamas.</p>

<p>To find a resolution to the ongoing Israel-Hams war, UNGA's 193 members met in the emergency special session to vote on a&nbsp;resolution moved by Jordan which had the backing of over 40 countries, including Bangladesh, Pakistan, Maldives, South Africa, and Russia.</p>

<h2><strong>Resolution adopted with 120 nations voting 'yes'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The "Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations" resolution was adopted with 120 nations voting yes, 14 No, and 45 abstaining.<br />
<br />
In addition to India, other countries including Australia, Germany, Canada, Japan, Ukraine and the UK also abstained from voting on the resolution. The US said that not mentioning Hamas in the resolution is equated to "omission of evil".</p>

<h2><strong>Canadian amendments to resolution</strong></h2>

<p>Prior to the voting, an amendment proposed by Canada and backed by the US was considered. India voted yes for the Canadian amendment to Jordanian proposal on Israel Palestine resolution that condemned the Hamas terror attack on Israel. However the resolution was not adopted since it did not get a 2/3rd vote in UNGA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tata-to-manufacture-iphones-for-domestic-and-global-markets-in-india-651976">India's Tata group to manufacture iPhones for domestic and global markets</a></p>

<p>At the UN, India abstained from the Jordanian resolution that did not explicitly condemn Hamas terror attacks on Israel but supported the Canadian amendment that did the same.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-medical-facilities-overwhelmed-infants-suffer-due-to-lack-of-nutrition-necessities-wion-652113">Gaza medical facilities overwhelmed; infants suffer due to lack of nutrition &amp; necessities | WION</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-medical-facilities-overwhelmed-infants-suffer-due-to-lack-of-nutrition-necessities-wion-652113/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The amendment called for adding para to the resolution that says "unequivocally rejects and condemns the terrorist attacks by Hamas that took place in Israel starting on 7 October 2023 and the taking of hostages, demands the safety, well-being and humane treatment of the hostages in compliance with international law, and calls for their immediate and unconditional release".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


India abstained from voting in the UN General Assembly on Friday (Oct 27) on a Jordan-led resolution that had no mention of Hamas in it. The resolution sought a ceasefire in Gaza and "unhindered" humanitarian access to the war-ravaged region. While explaining India's decision to abstain from voting, India's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations Yojna Patel said that there is no justification for terror and the country is shocked by the October 7 terror attack on Israel. India also called for the release of hostages held captive in Gaza by the Hamas Islamist terror group and welcomed all the efforts of de-escalation of tensions terming the humanitarian crisis in Gaza concerning. Also Read | New EU Ambassador Hervé Delphin upbeat on 'ascending' ties with India and FTA talks The envoy also restated India's two-state solution for the long-standing Israel-Palestine conflict. Over 1,400 people were reportedly killed in Israel after the brutal onslaught by the Palestinian terror group Hamas. To find a resolution to the ongoing Israel-Hams war, UNGA's 193 members met in the emergency special session to vote on a resolution moved by Jordan which had the backing of over 40 countries, including Bangladesh, Pakistan, Maldives, South Africa, and Russia. Resolution adopted with 120 nations voting 'yes' The "Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations" resolution was adopted with 120 nations voting yes, 14 No, and 45 abstaining. In addition to India, other countries including Australia, Germany, Canada, Japan, Ukraine and the UK also abstained from voting on the resolution. The US said that not mentioning Hamas in the resolution is equated to "omission of evil". Canadian amendments to resolution Prior to the voting, an amendment proposed by Canada and backed by the US was considered. India voted yes for the Canadian amendment to Jordanian proposal on Israel Palestine resolution that condemned the Hamas terror attack on Israel. However the resolution was not adopted since it did not get a 2/3rd vote in UNGA. Also Read | India's Tata group to manufacture iPhones for domestic and global markets At the UN, India abstained from the Jordanian resolution that did not explicitly condemn Hamas terror attacks on Israel but supported the Canadian amendment that did the same. Watch | Gaza medical facilities overwhelmed; infants suffer due to lack of nutrition & necessities | WION × The amendment called for adding para to the resolution that says "unequivocally rejects and condemns the terrorist attacks by Hamas that took place in Israel starting on 7 October 2023 and the taking of hostages, demands the safety, well-being and humane treatment of the hostages in compliance with international law, and calls for their immediate and unconditional release". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

India abstains from vote on Jordan-led UNGA resolution that didn't mention Hamas

<p>The state of war in Israel has cast its shadow on the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), announced last month by the leaders of India, Saudi Arabia,&nbsp;United States, United Arab Emirates and Europe last month at New Delhi G20 summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Described by Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the "largest cooperation project" in Israeli history and hailed by the US President Joe Biden as a transcontinental connectivity project that&nbsp;will make West Asia "more stable and better connected to its neighbours", the passage of IMEC has entered a moment of uncertainty, at least for now.</p>

<p>"Israel is at the focus of an unprecedented international project that will link infrastructure from Asia to Europe," Netanyahu had said on September 12, 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor: Reading between the timeline</strong></h2>

<p>According to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on principles of IMEC signed during New Delhi G20 summit, the representatives of its signatories — India, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, European Union and the United States&nbsp;— were supposed to meet within 60 days after September 9, 2023 "to develop and commit to an action plan with relevant timetables".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7 came right in the middle of this timeline, when the signatories of IMEC had to meet to roll out an action plan for the development of the economic corridor aimed to facilitate the transit of&nbsp;commerce, energy and data to, from and between India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel and Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reignited pro-Palestine sentiment&nbsp;in West Asia, especially in Jordan —&nbsp;which on October 27 sponsored a&nbsp;UN General Assembly resolution&nbsp;for humanitarian truce in Gaza&nbsp;— may emerge as a&nbsp;cause which could delay the formalisation of IMEC in the immediate future. But officials say that the ongoing state of war has vindicated the need for economic stabilisers in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">UN vote on West Asia Crisis:<br />
-Jordan proposal adopted, calls for humanitarian truce, condemns civilian killing on both side<br />
-120 yes, 14 against, 45 abstention. India abstained<br />
<br />
-Canada proposal to condemn Hamas terror attack fails<br />
-88 yes, 55 nos, 23 abstention. India votes yes</p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1718119526255165597?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Over three years since the signing of Abraham Accords — a series of joint normalisation agreements initially between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain; and later Sudan and Morocco — and seven months since normalisation of ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia until October 7, 2023, there had been steady signs of de-escalation from prolonged tensions in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The transcontinental connectivity project announced in Delhi stemmed from the signs of stability in the region and expectation of restoration of ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel. &nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="A dove flies over the debris of houses destroyed in Israeli strikes, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip October 11, 2023" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ec2c74f1-bd1c-4330-aee9-861497d88fba" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-10-28T201447.874.png" /></p>

<p><em>A dove flies over the debris of houses destroyed in Israeli strikes, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip October 11, 2023 | Reuters</em></p>

<p>But with Israel's retaliatory action on Hamas in the Gaza Strip that continues to kill thousands of civilians in the Palestinian region, the corridors of power in Riyadh and Amman have become vary of rapproachment with Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Any attempt by Israel and the US to effect an Israeli-Saudi normalisation of relations is likely to be delayed, because the Saudi public is outraged by Israel's assault on Gaza, so the leadership will have to move with the utmost care," said Joost Hiltermann, Program Director, Middle East and North Africa at Crisis Group.</p>

<h2><strong>'We will carry on with IMEC': Why this connectivity project matters?</strong></h2>

<p>The US President Joe Biden has said that he believes one of the reason why Hamas attacked Israel is due to the progress made to formalise the India-Middle East-Europe Economic corridor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did, and I have no proof of this, just my instinct tells me, is because of the progress we were making towards regional integration for Israel, and regional integration overall. We can’t leave that work behind," Biden said on October 26 while standing beside Australian Prime Minister Antony Albanese.</p>

<p>On October 20, in his wartime address after visit to Israel, Biden pitched the project as a stability factor in a region plagued with conflicts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"With this (IMEC)", Biden said, the region will benefit with&nbsp;"predictable markets, more employment, less rage and less grievances."</p>

<p>"It benefits the people of the Middle East. It benefits us (the United States)."</p>

<p>Asked by WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal if the ongoing developments in West Asia pose a challenge towards India-Middle East-Europe&nbsp;connectivity corridor,&nbsp;Europen Union Ambassador in New Delhi Hervé Delphin said that&nbsp;these developments in fact&nbsp;"vindicate the necessity to provide stabilisers for this region".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"All key stakeholders in the IMEC have the same message.&nbsp;We will carry on with this project," Delphin said.</p>

<p>"We should not consider that because there is a war, it has simply killed this project. I don't think it has. On the contrary, as I said, I think it simply shows the value of such a project," he added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The state of war in Israel has cast its shadow on the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), announced last month by the leaders of India, Saudi Arabia, United States, United Arab Emirates and Europe last month at New Delhi G20 summit.

The state of war in Israel has cast its shadow on the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), announced last month by the leaders of India, Saudi Arabia, United States, United Arab Emirates and Europe last month at New Delhi G20 summit. Described by Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the "largest cooperation project" in Israeli history and hailed by the US President Joe Biden as a transcontinental connectivity project that will make West Asia "more stable and better connected to its neighbours", the passage of IMEC has entered a moment of uncertainty, at least for now. "Israel is at the focus of an unprecedented international project that will link infrastructure from Asia to Europe," Netanyahu had said on September 12, 2023. India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor: Reading between the timeline According to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on principles of IMEC signed during New Delhi G20 summit, the representatives of its signatories — India, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, European Union and the United States — were supposed to meet within 60 days after September 9, 2023 "to develop and commit to an action plan with relevant timetables". The attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7 came right in the middle of this timeline, when the signatories of IMEC had to meet to roll out an action plan for the development of the economic corridor aimed to facilitate the transit of commerce, energy and data to, from and between India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel and Europe. The reignited pro-Palestine sentiment in West Asia, especially in Jordan — which on October 27 sponsored a UN General Assembly resolution for humanitarian truce in Gaza — may emerge as a cause which could delay the formalisation of IMEC in the immediate future. But officials say that the ongoing state of war has vindicated the need for economic stabilisers in the region. UN vote on West Asia Crisis: -Jordan proposal adopted, calls for humanitarian truce, condemns civilian killing on both side -120 yes, 14 against, 45 abstention. India abstained -Canada proposal to condemn Hamas terror attack fails -88 yes, 55 nos, 23 abstention. India votes yes — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) October 28, 2023 × Over three years since the signing of Abraham Accords — a series of joint normalisation agreements initially between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain; and later Sudan and Morocco — and seven months since normalisation of ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia until October 7, 2023, there had been steady signs of de-escalation from prolonged tensions in the region. The transcontinental connectivity project announced in Delhi stemmed from the signs of stability in the region and expectation of restoration of ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel. A dove flies over the debris of houses destroyed in Israeli strikes, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip October 11, 2023 | Reuters But with Israel's retaliatory action on Hamas in the Gaza Strip that continues to kill thousands of civilians in the Palestinian region, the corridors of power in Riyadh and Amman have become vary of rapproachment with Israel. "Any attempt by Israel and the US to effect an Israeli-Saudi normalisation of relations is likely to be delayed, because the Saudi public is outraged by Israel's assault on Gaza, so the leadership will have to move with the utmost care," said Joost Hiltermann, Program Director, Middle East and North Africa at Crisis Group. 'We will carry on with IMEC': Why this connectivity project matters? The US President Joe Biden has said that he believes one of the reason why Hamas attacked Israel is due to the progress made to formalise the India-Middle East-Europe Economic corridor. "I am convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did, and I have no proof of this, just my instinct tells me, is because of the progress we were making towards regional integration for Israel, and regional integration overall. We can’t leave that work behind," Biden said on October 26 while standing beside Australian Prime Minister Antony Albanese. On October 20, in his wartime address after visit to Israel, Biden pitched the project as a stability factor in a region plagued with conflicts. "With this (IMEC)", Biden said, the region will benefit with "predictable markets, more employment, less rage and less grievances." "It benefits the people of the Middle East. It benefits us (the United States)." Asked by WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal if the ongoing developments in West Asia pose a challenge towards India-Middle East-Europe connectivity corridor, Europen Union Ambassador in New Delhi Hervé Delphin said that these developments in fact "vindicate the necessity to provide stabilisers for this region". "All key stakeholders in the IMEC have the same message. We will carry on with this project," Delphin said. "We should not consider that because there is a war, it has simply killed this project. I don't think it has. On the contrary, as I said, I think it simply shows the value of such a project," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

How Israel-Hamas war is impacting state of India-Middle East-Europe corridor

<p>The United States has reportedly urged China to leverage its relationships in West Asia, particularly with Iran, to prevent the expansion of Israel-Hamas war in the&nbsp;region. The reported request comes days after US President Joe Biden's wartime Israel visit failed to even establish a leadership-to-leadership engagement with Arab leaders.</p>

<p>The diplomatic effort took place during what has been the first visit by a Chinese foreign minister to Washington since 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wang held extensive meetings with the US President Joe Biden, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. Among the topics discussed was the possibility of a summit between Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in San Francisco the following month.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;China &amp; US need to resume comprehensive dialogue: China FM Wang Yi | World News | WION</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-us-need-to-resume-comprehensive-dialogue-china-fm-wang-yi-world-news-wion-652016/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"We pressed China to take a more constructive approach, and that would include of course their engagements with the Iranians to urge calm," a senior US official was quoted as saying by Financial Times after the meetings with Wang.</p>

<p>"China obviously has relations in the region . . . We think it should be using those connections to call for calm on all sides. And I think some of their comments publicly have focused in one particular direction."</p>

<h2><strong>Israel-Hamas war: What is Washington's primary concern?</strong></h2>

<p>The primary worry for the US is the potential for Iranian military support to Hamas or Hezbollah, which could escalate the conflict in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US officials have encouraged China to take a more constructive approach in its engagement with Iran, advocating for de-escalation.</p>

<h2><strong>Has Beijing's influence outgrown Washington's in West Asia?</strong></h2>

<p>In March 2023, China outfoxed the&nbsp;US-led West after it succeeded in brokering an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-saudi-arabia-restore-ties-as-china-brokered-deal-outfoxes-west-570766">Iran-Saudi Arabia deal to restore the bilateral&nbsp;ties</a> between Shia and Sunni powerhouses respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spotlight-on-washingtons-waning-political-capital-after-gaza-hospital-blast-sinks-bidens-jordan-summit-648187">Washington's waning political capital</a> in the region was in spotlight after a four-way leaders' summit between US President Joe Biden, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Jordan's King Abdullah II, and Palestine Authority President&nbsp;Mahmoud Abbas was unilaterally cancelled by host Jordan after a deadly mass casualty at a Gaza hospital earlier this month, even though Israel presented evidence that it had no role and a rocket misfired from Gaza had led to the tragedy.</p>

<p>The unilateral cancellation of Biden's visit with Arab leaders occurred despite US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's shuttle diplomacy in the region when he established in-person contact with leaders in the region.<br />
<br />
On October 27, China issued an unprecedented statement saying it will "strongly oppose any external forces interfering in Iran's internal affairs", in a veiled reference to Washington's warnings to Iran against indulging in conflict between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thereby, Beijing appears to have an edge&nbsp;over Washington when it comes to securing a goal towards a semblance of stability in West Asia.</p>

<h2><b>Wang Yi China visit: What else is on the cards?</b></h2>

<p>The discussions reportedly touched upon regional concerns, including actions in the South China Sea and the need for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.</p>

<p>Furthermore, the US raised the issue of counter-narcotics with China, urging Beijing&nbsp;to crack down on the export of chemicals used in the production of Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid responsible for a significant number of deaths among the young Americans.</p>

<p>Another topic of importance in the discussions was the re-establishment of military-to-military channels.</p>

<p>The US expressed its desire to reopen these channels, which China had previously shut down after then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan the previous y</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The United States has reportedly urged China to leverage its relationships in West Asia, particularly with Iran, to prevent the expansion of Israel-Hamas war in the region.

The United States has reportedly urged China to leverage its relationships in West Asia, particularly with Iran, to prevent the expansion of Israel-Hamas war in the region. The reported request comes days after US President Joe Biden's wartime Israel visit failed to even establish a leadership-to-leadership engagement with Arab leaders. The diplomatic effort took place during what has been the first visit by a Chinese foreign minister to Washington since 2018. Wang held extensive meetings with the US President Joe Biden, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. Among the topics discussed was the possibility of a summit between Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in San Francisco the following month. Also watch | China & US need to resume comprehensive dialogue: China FM Wang Yi | World News | WION × "We pressed China to take a more constructive approach, and that would include of course their engagements with the Iranians to urge calm," a senior US official was quoted as saying by Financial Times after the meetings with Wang. "China obviously has relations in the region . . . We think it should be using those connections to call for calm on all sides. And I think some of their comments publicly have focused in one particular direction." Israel-Hamas war: What is Washington's primary concern? The primary worry for the US is the potential for Iranian military support to Hamas or Hezbollah, which could escalate the conflict in the region. The US officials have encouraged China to take a more constructive approach in its engagement with Iran, advocating for de-escalation. Has Beijing's influence outgrown Washington's in West Asia? In March 2023, China outfoxed the US-led West after it succeeded in brokering an Iran-Saudi Arabia deal to restore the bilateral ties between Shia and Sunni powerhouses respectively. Recently, Washington's waning political capital in the region was in spotlight after a four-way leaders' summit between US President Joe Biden, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Jordan's King Abdullah II, and Palestine Authority President Mahmoud Abbas was unilaterally cancelled by host Jordan after a deadly mass casualty at a Gaza hospital earlier this month, even though Israel presented evidence that it had no role and a rocket misfired from Gaza had led to the tragedy. The unilateral cancellation of Biden's visit with Arab leaders occurred despite US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's shuttle diplomacy in the region when he established in-person contact with leaders in the region. On October 27, China issued an unprecedented statement saying it will "strongly oppose any external forces interfering in Iran's internal affairs", in a veiled reference to Washington's warnings to Iran against indulging in conflict between Israel and Hamas. Thereby, Beijing appears to have an edge over Washington when it comes to securing a goal towards a semblance of stability in West Asia. Wang Yi China visit: What else is on the cards? The discussions reportedly touched upon regional concerns, including actions in the South China Sea and the need for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Furthermore, the US raised the issue of counter-narcotics with China, urging Beijing to crack down on the export of chemicals used in the production of Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid responsible for a significant number of deaths among the young Americans. Another topic of importance in the discussions was the re-establishment of military-to-military channels. The US expressed its desire to reopen these channels, which China had previously shut down after then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan the previous y WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China outfoxing US in West Asia? Washington asks Beijing to pull Tehran away from Israel-Hamas war

<p>Israelis are descending upon gun stores and firearms training centres in record numbers since the October 7 onslaught by Hamas.</p>

<p>Some of them are frustrated with the slow military response while some are horrified by soul-stirring scenes of terror. Now they believe arming themselves might be the best way to ward off any similar terror threat in the future.</p>

<p>As a result, gun stores and shooting ranges are working overtime to keep up with the demand.</p>

<h2><strong>Record applications</strong></h2>

<p>According to local media reports, a record 150,000 applicants have applied for gun licenses within weeks since Hamas launched attacks on Israel. To put the spike into perspective, during the same period last year, just 42 applicants showed up.</p>

<p>In central Kfar Saba Shooting Range, they were holding just one training course per day, now they’re holding three to four daily. Some centres are hiring more staff to accommodate the massive demand.</p>

<h2><strong>Blessing from the government</strong></h2>

<p>The trend of buying personal firearms is further fuelled by a recent shift in government policy. So far, issuing gun licenses has been highly restricted in the country, involving an arduous application process which would often take months.</p>

<p>Now, it is a matter of some days, with most of the work done online. The Israeli minister for police, Itamar Ben-Gvir, believes private gun ownership is actually a good thing for internal stability.</p>

<p>Even Prime Minister Netanyahu himself has backed the idea.</p>

<p>The war against Hamas included “encouraging civilians and helping civilians to arm themselves for their self-defence,” he said in a televised speech on Wednesday (Oct 25).</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-ready-to-release-civilian-prisoners-but-on-one-condition-says-iran-652021"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;`Hamas ready to release civilian hostages but on one condition`, says Iran</strong></a></p>

<p>Personal accounts from some of the survivors of the Oct 7 attack have also led some people to buy firearms.</p>

<p>Some of the survivors said they were able to defend their homes only because they had a gun near to hand. They kept holding on until security forces arrived, after delays of several hours.</p>

<h2><strong>Words of caution</strong></h2>

<p>While Israelis demonstrate great enthusiasm for purchasing firearms, some anti-gun activists have raised concerns.</p>

<p>They believe making firearms too freely available raises the risk of accidental shootings, murder and suicide.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Can Mahmoud Abbas represent the voice of Palestinians?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-can-mahmoud-abbas-represent-the-voice-of-palestinians-651295/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“An untrained response in the event of a subjective sense of danger is liable to bring about the needless death of innocents,” said an Israeli advocate group called “Pistol on the Kitchen Table”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Israelis are descending upon gun stores and firearms training centres in record numbers since the October 7 onslaught by Hamas. Some of them are frustrated with the slow military response while some are horrified by soul-stirring scenes of terror.

Israelis are descending upon gun stores and firearms training centres in record numbers since the October 7 onslaught by Hamas. Some of them are frustrated with the slow military response while some are horrified by soul-stirring scenes of terror. Now they believe arming themselves might be the best way to ward off any similar terror threat in the future. As a result, gun stores and shooting ranges are working overtime to keep up with the demand. Record applications According to local media reports, a record 150,000 applicants have applied for gun licenses within weeks since Hamas launched attacks on Israel. To put the spike into perspective, during the same period last year, just 42 applicants showed up. In central Kfar Saba Shooting Range, they were holding just one training course per day, now they’re holding three to four daily. Some centres are hiring more staff to accommodate the massive demand. Blessing from the government The trend of buying personal firearms is further fuelled by a recent shift in government policy. So far, issuing gun licenses has been highly restricted in the country, involving an arduous application process which would often take months. Now, it is a matter of some days, with most of the work done online. The Israeli minister for police, Itamar Ben-Gvir, believes private gun ownership is actually a good thing for internal stability. Even Prime Minister Netanyahu himself has backed the idea. The war against Hamas included “encouraging civilians and helping civilians to arm themselves for their self-defence,” he said in a televised speech on Wednesday (Oct 25). Also read: `Hamas ready to release civilian hostages but on one condition`, says Iran Personal accounts from some of the survivors of the Oct 7 attack have also led some people to buy firearms. Some of the survivors said they were able to defend their homes only because they had a gun near to hand. They kept holding on until security forces arrived, after delays of several hours. Words of caution While Israelis demonstrate great enthusiasm for purchasing firearms, some anti-gun activists have raised concerns. They believe making firearms too freely available raises the risk of accidental shootings, murder and suicide. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: Can Mahmoud Abbas represent the voice of Palestinians? × “An untrained response in the event of a subjective sense of danger is liable to bring about the needless death of innocents,” said an Israeli advocate group called “Pistol on the Kitchen Table”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Israelis descending upon gun stores in large numbers after Oct 7 attack

<p>The Israeli military has unequivocally told some news organisations that it can’t guarantee the safety of their journalists currently reporting from Gaza.</p>

<p>The statement from the IDF came after news organisations Reuters and AFP demanded Israel not to target their journalists on the battlefield.</p>

<p>"The IDF is targeting all Hamas military activity throughout Gaza," the IDF statement said, adding that Hamas deliberately put military operations "in the vicinity of journalists and civilians".</p>

<p>"Under these circumstances, we cannot guarantee your employees' safety and strongly urge you to take all necessary measures for their safety," the IDF made clear.</p>

<h2><strong>Reuters and AFP concerned</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to the IDF’s statement, Reuters said it would prevent the journalists on the ground from fulfilling their duties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The situation on the ground is dire. The IDF’s unwillingness to give assurances about the safety of our staff threatens their ability to deliver the news about this conflict without fear of being injured or killed," a Reuters statement said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israeli military says Hamas hiding tunnels, operations centres in Gaza hospital</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-military-says-hamas-hiding-tunnels-operations-centres-in-gaza-hospital-652197/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>AFP Global News Director Phil Chetwynd said his news organisation had received the same letter.</p>

<p>"We are in an incredibly precarious position and it's important that the world understands that there is a large team of journalists working in extremely dangerous conditions," Chetwynd said.</p>

<h2><strong>Death of journalists</strong></h2>

<p>According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), at least 29 journalists have lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas conflict so far, mostly inside the Gazan territory.</p>

<p>CPJ reported that at least eight journalists were reported injured and nine missing or detained.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-poll-finds-49-support-for-holding-off-on-gaza-invasion-652201"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israeli poll finds 49% support for holding off on Gaza invasion</strong></a></p>

<p>“CPJ emphasizes that journalists are civilians doing important work during times of crisis and must not be targeted by warring parties,” said Sherif Mansour, CPJ’s Middle East and North Africa program coordinator.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Journalists across the region are making great sacrifices to cover this heartbreaking conflict. Those in Gaza, in particular, have paid, and continue to pay, an unprecedented toll and face exponential threats. Many have lost colleagues, families, and media facilities, and have fled seeking safety when there is no safe haven or exit,” he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Israeli military has unequivocally told some news organisations that it can’t guarantee the safety of their journalists currently reporting from Gaza. The statement from the IDF came after news organisations Reuters and AFP demanded Israel not to target their journalists on the battlefield.

The Israeli military has unequivocally told some news organisations that it can’t guarantee the safety of their journalists currently reporting from Gaza. The statement from the IDF came after news organisations Reuters and AFP demanded Israel not to target their journalists on the battlefield. "The IDF is targeting all Hamas military activity throughout Gaza," the IDF statement said, adding that Hamas deliberately put military operations "in the vicinity of journalists and civilians". "Under these circumstances, we cannot guarantee your employees' safety and strongly urge you to take all necessary measures for their safety," the IDF made clear. Reuters and AFP concerned Reacting to the IDF’s statement, Reuters said it would prevent the journalists on the ground from fulfilling their duties. “The situation on the ground is dire. The IDF’s unwillingness to give assurances about the safety of our staff threatens their ability to deliver the news about this conflict without fear of being injured or killed," a Reuters statement said. Watch: Israeli military says Hamas hiding tunnels, operations centres in Gaza hospital × AFP Global News Director Phil Chetwynd said his news organisation had received the same letter. "We are in an incredibly precarious position and it's important that the world understands that there is a large team of journalists working in extremely dangerous conditions," Chetwynd said. Death of journalists According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), at least 29 journalists have lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas conflict so far, mostly inside the Gazan territory. CPJ reported that at least eight journalists were reported injured and nine missing or detained. Also read: Israeli poll finds 49% support for holding off on Gaza invasion “CPJ emphasizes that journalists are civilians doing important work during times of crisis and must not be targeted by warring parties,” said Sherif Mansour, CPJ’s Middle East and North Africa program coordinator. “Journalists across the region are making great sacrifices to cover this heartbreaking conflict. Those in Gaza, in particular, have paid, and continue to pay, an unprecedented toll and face exponential threats. Many have lost colleagues, families, and media facilities, and have fled seeking safety when there is no safe haven or exit,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

IDF says can’t guarantee safety as 29 journalists die in Israel-Hamas war

<p>India is stepping up its drone surveillance system in border areas to ward&nbsp;off any Hamas-like attacks that took place on Israeli soil on Oct 7. Two weeks of devastation has left above 8,000 people dead in both Israel and Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has also battled similar surprise attacks by terror&nbsp;groups based in the neighbouring countries. Drawing lessons from the Israel-Hamas war, India doesn’t want to be caught off-guard if a similar situation arises at its own border.</p>

<p>According to a report by Bloomberg, India’s defence officials met six vendors of surveillance and reconnaissance drones over the last week. An order is expected to be placed very soon.</p>

<h2><strong>Significance for India</strong></h2>

<p>India needs a robust border defence system to ward&nbsp;off terror threats and foil the dangerous designs of its enemies. For instance, in 2008, terrorists from Pakistan armed with assault weapons and grenades infiltrated Mumbai by sea and managed to kill 166 people.</p>

<p>India is now acting with urgency on this matter. According to media reports, Indian forces are looking to have the drone defence system up and running by as early as May.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-indian-navy-officers-awarded-death-penalty-in-qatar-india-expresses-shock-651570"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Eight Indian nationals given death penalty in Qatar, `deeply shocked` India exploring all legal options</strong></a></p>

<p>Not just that, persistent border tensions with China in the Himalayas and Pakistan also warrant a well-equipped border drone defence infrastructure.</p>

<p>It must be noted that this system would be used not just to tackle security challenges but also the drug menace. Pakistan-based groups are believed to be using drones to smuggle drugs across the border.</p>

<p>According to reports, it might take India almost 18 months to cover the entire stretch of borders. The system will cost India $500 million annually.</p>

<h2><strong>How does this system work?</strong></h2>

<p>Solar-powered drones known as High-Altitude Pseudo Satellites (HAPS) will be deployed to support the drone infrastructure, capable of extended flight durations without requiring frequent landings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These 24/7 high-altitude, long-endurance drones will also serve as backup for the conventional radar network along the country's borders, transmitting images directly to local command centres.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India-Canada row: India-Canada airfares soar amid troubled ties</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-canada-row-india-canada-airfares-soar-amid-troubled-ties-652155/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Both the drones and the accompanying software will be developed domestically, as the Indian military aims to enhance local production within the context of a $250 billion, 10-year military modernisation initiative.</p>

<p>Once operational, the entire 22,531-kilometre-long land and sea borders will be continuously monitored.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


India is stepping up its drone surveillance system in border areas to ward off any Hamas-like attacks that took place on Israeli soil on Oct 7. Two weeks of devastation has left above 8,000 people dead in both Israel and Gaza Strip.

India is stepping up its drone surveillance system in border areas to ward off any Hamas-like attacks that took place on Israeli soil on Oct 7. Two weeks of devastation has left above 8,000 people dead in both Israel and Gaza Strip. India has also battled similar surprise attacks by terror groups based in the neighbouring countries. Drawing lessons from the Israel-Hamas war, India doesn’t want to be caught off-guard if a similar situation arises at its own border. According to a report by Bloomberg, India’s defence officials met six vendors of surveillance and reconnaissance drones over the last week. An order is expected to be placed very soon. Significance for India India needs a robust border defence system to ward off terror threats and foil the dangerous designs of its enemies. For instance, in 2008, terrorists from Pakistan armed with assault weapons and grenades infiltrated Mumbai by sea and managed to kill 166 people. India is now acting with urgency on this matter. According to media reports, Indian forces are looking to have the drone defence system up and running by as early as May. Also read: Eight Indian nationals given death penalty in Qatar, `deeply shocked` India exploring all legal options Not just that, persistent border tensions with China in the Himalayas and Pakistan also warrant a well-equipped border drone defence infrastructure. It must be noted that this system would be used not just to tackle security challenges but also the drug menace. Pakistan-based groups are believed to be using drones to smuggle drugs across the border. According to reports, it might take India almost 18 months to cover the entire stretch of borders. The system will cost India $500 million annually. How does this system work? Solar-powered drones known as High-Altitude Pseudo Satellites (HAPS) will be deployed to support the drone infrastructure, capable of extended flight durations without requiring frequent landings. These 24/7 high-altitude, long-endurance drones will also serve as backup for the conventional radar network along the country's borders, transmitting images directly to local command centres. Watch: India-Canada row: India-Canada airfares soar amid troubled ties × Both the drones and the accompanying software will be developed domestically, as the Indian military aims to enhance local production within the context of a $250 billion, 10-year military modernisation initiative. Once operational, the entire 22,531-kilometre-long land and sea borders will be continuously monitored. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India urgently building border drone defence system to ward off Hamas-like attacks

<p>A delegation from Hamas landed in Moscow on Thursday for talks with Russian officials on the release of Russian hostages and other foreign nationals who are currently held up in Gaza.</p>

<p>There are at least 220 Russian citizens held as hostages by Hamas, according to the Israeli government.</p>

<p>Mousa Abu Marzook, the founder and political leader of Hamas, was among the delegation of the militant group who met Russian deputy foreign minister Mikhail Bogdanov, state-run Tass news agency reported.</p>

<p>According to reports, Marzook, who lives in exile in Qatar, travelled to Moscow after an earlier meeting in Doha with Bogdanov and the Iranian deputy foreign minister, Ali Bagheri Kani.</p>

<p>“Abu Marzook, a member of the political bureau of the Islamic resistance movement Hamas, is in Moscow,” said the Russian foreign ministry in a statement.</p>

<p>“Contact with him took place in pursuit for the immediate release of foreign hostages held in the Gaza Strip, and issues related to ensuring the evacuation of Russian and other foreign citizens from the territory of the Palestinian enclave were discussed.”</p>

<p>Later, Hamas in its own statement praised Russia's President Vladimir Putin for his efforts to end "the crimes of Israel that are supported by the West", Russia's RIA news agency reported.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia-Hamas ties&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The meeting comes after the deputy minister expressed his desire to meet the terrorist organisation in Qatar to discuss the release of Israeli hostages.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“If they are willing, we always are in favour of contact,” Bogdanov told state media earlier this month.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/advancing-india-middle-east-europe-economic-corridor-potential-reason-behind-hamas-attack-biden-651583">Biden links Hamas attack to economic corridor put out in G20 summit</a></p>

<p>“Especially in this situation, [a meeting] would be useful for solving practical issues, including the freeing of hostages.”</p>

<h2><strong>Putin wants Gaza bombing to end&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The meeting reflects Russia’s unwavering support to the Palestinians who have been affected by the Israeli counter-operations launched against Hamas for the October 7 terror attack.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meta-blocks-pro-palestine-account-on-instagram-due-to-security-reasons-651678">Meta blocks pro-Palestine account on Instagram, users accuse it of shadowbanning</a></p>

<p>Earlier this week, Vladimir Putin warned that an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza could lead to a broader regional conflict, saying that “our main task is to stop the bloodshed and violence … otherwise, further escalation of the crisis is fraught with grave and extremely dangerous and destructive consequences. And not only for the Middle East region. It could spill over far beyond the borders of the Middle East.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A delegation from Hamas landed in Moscow on Thursday for talks with Russian officials on the release of Russian hostages and other foreign nationals who are currently held up in Gaza.

A delegation from Hamas landed in Moscow on Thursday for talks with Russian officials on the release of Russian hostages and other foreign nationals who are currently held up in Gaza. There are at least 220 Russian citizens held as hostages by Hamas, according to the Israeli government. Mousa Abu Marzook, the founder and political leader of Hamas, was among the delegation of the militant group who met Russian deputy foreign minister Mikhail Bogdanov, state-run Tass news agency reported. According to reports, Marzook, who lives in exile in Qatar, travelled to Moscow after an earlier meeting in Doha with Bogdanov and the Iranian deputy foreign minister, Ali Bagheri Kani. “Abu Marzook, a member of the political bureau of the Islamic resistance movement Hamas, is in Moscow,” said the Russian foreign ministry in a statement. “Contact with him took place in pursuit for the immediate release of foreign hostages held in the Gaza Strip, and issues related to ensuring the evacuation of Russian and other foreign citizens from the territory of the Palestinian enclave were discussed.” Later, Hamas in its own statement praised Russia's President Vladimir Putin for his efforts to end "the crimes of Israel that are supported by the West", Russia's RIA news agency reported. Russia-Hamas ties The meeting comes after the deputy minister expressed his desire to meet the terrorist organisation in Qatar to discuss the release of Israeli hostages. “If they are willing, we always are in favour of contact,” Bogdanov told state media earlier this month. Also read | Biden links Hamas attack to economic corridor put out in G20 summit “Especially in this situation, [a meeting] would be useful for solving practical issues, including the freeing of hostages.” Putin wants Gaza bombing to end The meeting reflects Russia’s unwavering support to the Palestinians who have been affected by the Israeli counter-operations launched against Hamas for the October 7 terror attack. Also read | Meta blocks pro-Palestine account on Instagram, users accuse it of shadowbanning Earlier this week, Vladimir Putin warned that an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza could lead to a broader regional conflict, saying that “our main task is to stop the bloodshed and violence … otherwise, further escalation of the crisis is fraught with grave and extremely dangerous and destructive consequences. And not only for the Middle East region. It could spill over far beyond the borders of the Middle East.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hamas delegation visits Moscow to discuss release of hostages

<p>Iran’s Quds Force reportedly imparted specialised training to at least 500 Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants as recently as in September, reported Wall Street Journal on Wednesday (Oct 25).</p>

<p>IRGC’s elite forces trained the Jihadis in Iran up to a month before the deadly assault of October 7, which saw more than 1,000 Israelis and foreign nationals killed.</p>

<p>The report noted that several top Iranian and Hamas leaders attended the joint drills, including the Quds Force chief Esmail Qaani.</p>

<h2><strong>Iran’s role in Hamas’ assault</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, the WSJ reported that Iranian security officials assisted Hamas in launching the deadly assault on the Jewish nation. In fact, the green light also came from Tehran during a meeting in Beirut just days before the attack.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-18-days-of-israel-hamas-war-sees-more-palestinian-deaths-than-15-years-of-conflict-combined-651279"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Data Lab | 18 days of Israel-Hamas war sees more Palestinian deaths than 15 years of conflict combined</strong></a></p>

<p>“Details of the operation were refined during several meetings in Beirut attended by IRGC officers and representatives of four Iran-backed militant groups, including Hamas, which holds power in Gaza, and Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group and political faction in Lebanon,” WSJ reported citing members of Hamas and Hezbollah.</p>

<h2><strong>USA’s denial</strong></h2>

<p>Despite these reports hinting at the direct involvement of the Iranian regime in the Hamas’ assault, US officials maintain they don’t have enough evidence to believe Tehran had any role to play.</p>

<p>“We don’t have any information at this time to corroborate this account,” said a top US official.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel to flood Hamas' hostage tunnels</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-to-flood-hamas-hostage-tunnels-preparing-to-turn-gaza-into-rubble-us-journalist-651137/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>In an interview with CNN that aired previously, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said: “We have not yet seen evidence that Iran directed or was behind this particular attack, but there is certainly a long relationship.”</p>

<h2><strong>Statement by Hamas and Iran</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas claims it planned the attack on its own, without any support from a foreign player.</p>

<p>Mahmoud Mirdawi, a senior Hamas official, said, “This is a Palestinian and Hamas decision.”</p>

<p>Iran also made clear that it stood by Hamas’ actions but didn’t direct them.</p>

<p>“The decisions made by the Palestinian resistance are fiercely autonomous and unwaveringly aligned with the legitimate interests of the Palestinian people,” a spokesman for the Iranian mission at the UN said. “We are not involved in Palestine’s response, as it is taken solely by Palestine itself,” he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iran’s Quds Force reportedly imparted specialised training to at least 500 Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants as recently as in September, reported Wall Street Journal on Wednesday (Oct 25).

Iran’s Quds Force reportedly imparted specialised training to at least 500 Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants as recently as in September, reported Wall Street Journal on Wednesday (Oct 25). IRGC’s elite forces trained the Jihadis in Iran up to a month before the deadly assault of October 7, which saw more than 1,000 Israelis and foreign nationals killed. The report noted that several top Iranian and Hamas leaders attended the joint drills, including the Quds Force chief Esmail Qaani. Iran’s role in Hamas’ assault Earlier, the WSJ reported that Iranian security officials assisted Hamas in launching the deadly assault on the Jewish nation. In fact, the green light also came from Tehran during a meeting in Beirut just days before the attack. Also read: Data Lab | 18 days of Israel-Hamas war sees more Palestinian deaths than 15 years of conflict combined “Details of the operation were refined during several meetings in Beirut attended by IRGC officers and representatives of four Iran-backed militant groups, including Hamas, which holds power in Gaza, and Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group and political faction in Lebanon,” WSJ reported citing members of Hamas and Hezbollah. USA’s denial Despite these reports hinting at the direct involvement of the Iranian regime in the Hamas’ assault, US officials maintain they don’t have enough evidence to believe Tehran had any role to play. “We don’t have any information at this time to corroborate this account,” said a top US official. Watch: Israel to flood Hamas' hostage tunnels × In an interview with CNN that aired previously, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said: “We have not yet seen evidence that Iran directed or was behind this particular attack, but there is certainly a long relationship.” Statement by Hamas and Iran Hamas claims it planned the attack on its own, without any support from a foreign player. Mahmoud Mirdawi, a senior Hamas official, said, “This is a Palestinian and Hamas decision.” Iran also made clear that it stood by Hamas’ actions but didn’t direct them. “The decisions made by the Palestinian resistance are fiercely autonomous and unwaveringly aligned with the legitimate interests of the Palestinian people,” a spokesman for the Iranian mission at the UN said. “We are not involved in Palestine’s response, as it is taken solely by Palestine itself,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran’s elite Quds Force trained 500 Hamas terrorists before Oct 7 attack: Report

<p>Senior officials of Hamas and Islamic Jihad, both Palestinian militants groups, have held talks with Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, said the Lebanese group on Wednesday (Oct 25). The statement from Hezbollah did not reveal on what day or where the meeting took place. It only said that Nasrallah met Hamas number two Saleh al-Aruri and Islamic Jihad leader Ziad Nakhaleh at an undisclosed location and that the talks revolved around achieving "real victory" in the conflict with Israel.</p>

<p>The meeting, as claimed by Hezbollah, took place just when Israeli forces are exchanging fire with the Lebanese group and its Palestinian ally across Lebanon-Israel border. The developments have raised the spectre of new front of conflict amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel PM Netanyahu visits Gaza border, meets IDF soldiers | IDF Chief says 'ready for invasion'</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-pm-netanyahu-visits-gaza-border-meets-idf-soldiers-idf-chief-says-ready-for-invasion-651190/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The groups are part of the so-called "axis of resistance" which comprises of Palestinian,&nbsp;Lebanese, Syrian and other Iran-backed groups opposed to Israel.</p>

<p>The statement from Hezbollah said that the participants in the meeting discussed what "the axis of resistance must do at this critical stage to achieve real victory... in Gaza and Palestine and stop&nbsp;Israel's brutal aggression".</p>

<p>Hezbollah said that they also discussed "recent events in the Gaza Strip since the start of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood," a reference to the October 7 Hamas attack against Israel.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/need-to-set-the-record-straight-un-chief-clarifies-his-hamas-remarks-after-enraging-israel-651217">‘Need to set the record straight’: UN chief clarifies his Hamas remarks after enraging Israel</a></strong></p>

<p>Gaza Strip is controlled by Hamas. The health ministry run by Hamas has reported that 5,791 deaths have taken place in the enclave in the Israeli offensive in response to the October 7 attack.</p>

<p>The statement from the Hezbollah added that Nasrallah and militant leaders from Palestine "agreed to keep coordinating and daily following up on developments."</p>

<p>Hamas and Hezbollah have for long co-ordinated with Quds Force, the foreign operations arm of Iranian Revolutionary Guards.</p>

<p>Hezbollah said that the meeting also touched upon the cross-border fire at Israel-Lebanon border.</p>

<p>AFP has reported that at least 52 people have been killed so far in Lebanon. These are mostly Hezbollah fighters but the tally also includes civilians. Reuters journalist Issam Abdallah is one such casualty.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Senior officials of Hamas and Islamic Jihad, both Palestinian militants groups, have held talks with Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, said the Lebanese group on Wednesday (Oct 25).

Senior officials of Hamas and Islamic Jihad, both Palestinian militants groups, have held talks with Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, said the Lebanese group on Wednesday (Oct 25). The statement from Hezbollah did not reveal on what day or where the meeting took place. It only said that Nasrallah met Hamas number two Saleh al-Aruri and Islamic Jihad leader Ziad Nakhaleh at an undisclosed location and that the talks revolved around achieving "real victory" in the conflict with Israel. The meeting, as claimed by Hezbollah, took place just when Israeli forces are exchanging fire with the Lebanese group and its Palestinian ally across Lebanon-Israel border. The developments have raised the spectre of new front of conflict amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Watch | Israel PM Netanyahu visits Gaza border, meets IDF soldiers | IDF Chief says 'ready for invasion' × The groups are part of the so-called "axis of resistance" which comprises of Palestinian, Lebanese, Syrian and other Iran-backed groups opposed to Israel. The statement from Hezbollah said that the participants in the meeting discussed what "the axis of resistance must do at this critical stage to achieve real victory... in Gaza and Palestine and stop Israel's brutal aggression". Hezbollah said that they also discussed "recent events in the Gaza Strip since the start of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood," a reference to the October 7 Hamas attack against Israel. Also Read | ‘Need to set the record straight’: UN chief clarifies his Hamas remarks after enraging Israel Gaza Strip is controlled by Hamas. The health ministry run by Hamas has reported that 5,791 deaths have taken place in the enclave in the Israeli offensive in response to the October 7 attack. The statement from the Hezbollah added that Nasrallah and militant leaders from Palestine "agreed to keep coordinating and daily following up on developments." Hamas and Hezbollah have for long co-ordinated with Quds Force, the foreign operations arm of Iranian Revolutionary Guards. Hezbollah said that the meeting also touched upon the cross-border fire at Israel-Lebanon border. AFP has reported that at least 52 people have been killed so far in Lebanon. These are mostly Hezbollah fighters but the tally also includes civilians. Reuters journalist Issam Abdallah is one such casualty. (With inputs from agencies)

Hezbollah chief meets Hamas, Islamic Jihad leaders, says the Lebanese group

<p>Israel's military has shared a handwritten note which they claimed was found on the body of a Hamas militant, which appears to suggest the men owing allegiance to the Gaza-based group were encouraged to remove the heads, hearts and livers of their Israeli victims during the October 7 assault.</p>

<p>The note, according to Israel's Defense Forces (IDF) was&nbsp;recovered from the body of a Hamas militant who took part in the carnage of Israeli civilians. The note comes&nbsp;with purported&nbsp;instructions from Hamas&nbsp;commanders to behead Israelis.</p>

<p><img alt="Note allegedly found with a Hamas man | x/@idfonline" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="35255172-e2f0-45b0-bdc7-0aab6539f5e7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/HamasNote.png" /></p>

<p><em>Note allegedly found with a Hamas man | x/@idfonline</em></p>

<p>Israel Defense Forces spokesperson Brig. Gen. Daniel Hagari made the claims regarding the letter to CBS News.</p>

<p>"You must sharpen the blades of your swords and be pure in your intentions before Allah. Know that the enemy is a disease that has no cure, except beheading and removing the hearts and livers. Attack them!" the note reads in Arabic, according to the Jerusalem Post.</p>

<p>Hagari reacted to the note by stating that Hamas must be defeated.</p>

<p>"The Oct 7 massacre is something that I haven’t seen through my life," he told CBS News.</p>

<p>"This is a war. We have to fight. There is only one goal: Defeat Hamas. Kill the leaders of terror and bring our people home."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Shocking, gruesome images of babies killed during Hamas attack released</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-shocking-gruesome-images-of-babies-killed-during-hamas-attack-released-646370/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>When asked about his message to Hamas, he said: "We have only one country. It’s Israel. It’s our democracy, it’s our country. We’re not going anywhere. We’re going to fight for our country and we’re going to use all the means we can."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-claims-of-beheaded-israeli-babies-at-massacre-site-create-shockwaves-645154">Israel Vs Hamas: Reports of Israeli babies being massacred create shockwaves</a></strong></p>

<p>The past 18 days of Israel-Hamas war have led to more Palestinian deaths than 15 years of the Israel-Palestine conflict combined.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gaza reported its highest single-day death toll of over 700 people in the ongoing war&nbsp;on Tuesday (Oct 25), according to the United Nations.</p>

<p>The war began on Oct 7 after men owing allegiance to Hamas infiltrated Israel and killed over 1,400 Israeli citizens, mostly civilians and took over 200 Israelis hostage into Gaza Strip.</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Israel's military has shared a handwritten note which they claimed was found on the body of a Hamas militant, which appears to suggest the men owing allegiance to the Gaza-based group were encouraged to remove the heads, hearts and livers of their Israeli victims during the October 7 assault.

Israel's military has shared a handwritten note which they claimed was found on the body of a Hamas militant, which appears to suggest the men owing allegiance to the Gaza-based group were encouraged to remove the heads, hearts and livers of their Israeli victims during the October 7 assault. The note, according to Israel's Defense Forces (IDF) was recovered from the body of a Hamas militant who took part in the carnage of Israeli civilians. The note comes with purported instructions from Hamas commanders to behead Israelis. Note allegedly found with a Hamas man | x/@idfonline Israel Defense Forces spokesperson Brig. Gen. Daniel Hagari made the claims regarding the letter to CBS News. "You must sharpen the blades of your swords and be pure in your intentions before Allah. Know that the enemy is a disease that has no cure, except beheading and removing the hearts and livers. Attack them!" the note reads in Arabic, according to the Jerusalem Post. Hagari reacted to the note by stating that Hamas must be defeated. "The Oct 7 massacre is something that I haven’t seen through my life," he told CBS News. "This is a war. We have to fight. There is only one goal: Defeat Hamas. Kill the leaders of terror and bring our people home." Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Shocking, gruesome images of babies killed during Hamas attack released × When asked about his message to Hamas, he said: "We have only one country. It’s Israel. It’s our democracy, it’s our country. We’re not going anywhere. We’re going to fight for our country and we’re going to use all the means we can." Also read | Israel Vs Hamas: Reports of Israeli babies being massacred create shockwaves The past 18 days of Israel-Hamas war have led to more Palestinian deaths than 15 years of the Israel-Palestine conflict combined. Gaza reported its highest single-day death toll of over 700 people in the ongoing war on Tuesday (Oct 25), according to the United Nations. The war began on Oct 7 after men owing allegiance to Hamas infiltrated Israel and killed over 1,400 Israeli citizens, mostly civilians and took over 200 Israelis hostage into Gaza Strip. 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.

'Beheading, removing of hearts': Israel claims note found on Hamas man's body called to commit atrocities

<p>Israel has effectively stopped issuing visas to the officials of United Nations starting Wednesday (Oct 25), a day after the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres indicated that Hamas'&nbsp;assault on Israeli civilians on October 7 was prompted by Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, which Guterres earlier on October 25 said was 'misreported'.</p>

<p>"The attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum. Palestinians have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation. But their grievances cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas. Those attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinians," Guterres had said.</p>

<p>Later on October 25, Guterres clarified that his remarks were misrepresented.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: UN Chief, Antonio Guterres remarks sparks row</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-un-chief-antonio-guterres-remarks-sparks-row-651170/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"I am shocked by misrepresentations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council -- as if I was justifying acts of terror by Hamas," Guterres told reporters.</p>

<h2><strong>Uproar grows in Israel for Guterres to issue apology</strong></h2>

<p>Israeli officials have been railing against the UN chief and demands have erupted from inside Israel for an apology from the UN chief. The chairperson of Yad Vashem Holocaust museum in Jerusalem said that Guterres "failed the test" of the "Never again" call to prevent any event towards the extermination of Jewish population after the events of second world war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-envoy-demands-immediate-resignation-of-un-chief-after-he-raises-concerns-over-violation-of-law-in-gaza-650832">Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’</a></strong></p>

<p>Guterres’s comments drew widespread&nbsp;outrage in Israel.</p>

<p>Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan described them as "shocking" and demanded that the secretary general resign.</p>

<p>Foreign Minister Eli Cohen reportedly&nbsp;cancelled a meeting with Guterres, and Minister Benny Gantz labeled the UN chief a "terror apologist."</p>

<p>The strongly worded reactions continued on Wednesday morning.</p>

<p>Israel's foreign ministry wrote on X, that Guterres’s remarks "provoke anger and astonishment and tarnish both him and the organization he heads," and reflect "a biased and distorted attitude towards Israel on the part of the UN and especially on the part of the Secretary-General himself."</p>

<p>"The UN Secretary-General must retract his words, engage in deep personal soul-searching and apologize for his statement, which distressed millions of Israelis who are still experiencing the consequences of the murderous terrorist attack of October 7," the ministry added.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel's new visa policy towards UN officials</strong></h2>

<p>Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan, in an interview with Army Radio, vowed to teach the UN a lesson with a punishing visa policy.</p>

<p>"Due to his remarks, we will refuse to issue visas to UN representatives," Erdan said. "We have already refused a visa for Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths. The time has come to teach them a lesson."</p>


Israel has effectively stopped issuing visas to the officials of United Nations starting Wednesday (Oct 25), a day after the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres indicated that Hamas' assault on Israeli civilians on October 7 was prompted by Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, which Guterres earlier on October 25 said was 'misreported'.

Israel has effectively stopped issuing visas to the officials of United Nations starting Wednesday (Oct 25), a day after the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres indicated that Hamas' assault on Israeli civilians on October 7 was prompted by Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, which Guterres earlier on October 25 said was 'misreported'. "The attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum. Palestinians have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation. But their grievances cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas. Those attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinians," Guterres had said. Later on October 25, Guterres clarified that his remarks were misrepresented. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: UN Chief, Antonio Guterres remarks sparks row × "I am shocked by misrepresentations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council -- as if I was justifying acts of terror by Hamas," Guterres told reporters. Uproar grows in Israel for Guterres to issue apology Israeli officials have been railing against the UN chief and demands have erupted from inside Israel for an apology from the UN chief. The chairperson of Yad Vashem Holocaust museum in Jerusalem said that Guterres "failed the test" of the "Never again" call to prevent any event towards the extermination of Jewish population after the events of second world war. Also read | Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’ Guterres’s comments drew widespread outrage in Israel. Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan described them as "shocking" and demanded that the secretary general resign. Foreign Minister Eli Cohen reportedly cancelled a meeting with Guterres, and Minister Benny Gantz labeled the UN chief a "terror apologist." The strongly worded reactions continued on Wednesday morning. Israel's foreign ministry wrote on X, that Guterres’s remarks "provoke anger and astonishment and tarnish both him and the organization he heads," and reflect "a biased and distorted attitude towards Israel on the part of the UN and especially on the part of the Secretary-General himself." "The UN Secretary-General must retract his words, engage in deep personal soul-searching and apologize for his statement, which distressed millions of Israelis who are still experiencing the consequences of the murderous terrorist attack of October 7," the ministry added. Israel's new visa policy towards UN officials Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan, in an interview with Army Radio, vowed to teach the UN a lesson with a punishing visa policy. "Due to his remarks, we will refuse to issue visas to UN representatives," Erdan said. "We have already refused a visa for Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths. The time has come to teach them a lesson."

Israel stops UN staff visas after Antonio Guterres is branded 'terror apologist' for his Hamas remarks

<p>While expressing its deep concerns over the Israel-Hamas war, India at the UN Security Council meeting on Wednesday (Oct 25) vowed its continued support for the people of Palestine. This came as the UNSC held its first open debate on the Israel-Hamas war, a meeting where a majority of the members urged for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid for Palestinians.</p>

<p>Until now, the 15-member council has failed to deliver a resolution amid air raids and relentless violence which has raised concerns of a further escalation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>India’s Deputy Permanent Representative (DPR) to the United Nations, Ambassador R. Ravindra said that India is "deeply concerned about the deteriorating security situation and large-scale loss of civilian lives in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-dispatches-significant-number-of-troops-jets-to-middle-east-650928">Australia dispatches 'significant' number of troops, jets to Middle East</a></p>

<p>"In these challenging times, India will continue to send humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine...Every effort must be made to create conducive conditions for the resumption of these talks," the Ambassador said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Terming the October 7&nbsp;Hamas attack as "shocking,"&nbsp;India at the UNSC condemned it "unequivocally."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN representative for India said that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "one of the first global leaders to have conveyed his condolences for the loss of lives and prayers for the innocent victims and their families."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-amid-upsurge-in-violence-us-begins-preparing-for-mass-evacuation-if-war-escalates-650898">Israel vs Hamas: Amid upsurge in violence, US begins preparing for mass evacuation if war escalates</a></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We stood in solidarity with Israel at their moment of crisis when they were facing these terror attacks...Our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. Civilian casualties in the ongoing conflict are a matter of serious and continuing concern," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Indian aid to Palestinians</strong></h2>

<p>After the unspeakable onslaught by Hamas, many Palestinians had to bear the brunt of the ensuing war. In the midst of the humanitarian crisis triggered by the unprecedented situation in the region, India stepped in to aid the Palestinians in their plight.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-state-antony-blinken-says-all-acts-of-terrorism-are-unlawful-whether-by-let-or-hamas-650941">US Secretary of State Antony Blinken says all acts of terrorism are unlawful whether by LET or Hamas</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-state-antony-blinken-says-all-acts-of-terrorism-are-unlawful-whether-by-let-or-hamas-650941/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Ambassador R. Ravindra at the open debate said, "India has sent 38 tons of humanitarian goods, including medicines and equipment, to the people of Palestine. India has always negotiated a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine issue, leading to the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable state of Palestine, living within secure and recognized borders, side by side in peace with Israel, taking into account the legitimate security concerns of Israel... We also continue to support the Palestinian people through our bilateral development partnership, which covers a wide range of sectors including health, education, women's empowerment, entrepreneurship, and information technology."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also reiterated India’s commitment to a "just, peaceful, and lasting solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


While expressing its deep concerns over the Israel-Hamas war, India at the UN Security Council meeting on Wednesday (Oct 25) vowed its continued support for the people of Palestine.

While expressing its deep concerns over the Israel-Hamas war, India at the UN Security Council meeting on Wednesday (Oct 25) vowed its continued support for the people of Palestine. This came as the UNSC held its first open debate on the Israel-Hamas war, a meeting where a majority of the members urged for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid for Palestinians. Until now, the 15-member council has failed to deliver a resolution amid air raids and relentless violence which has raised concerns of a further escalation. India’s Deputy Permanent Representative (DPR) to the United Nations, Ambassador R. Ravindra said that India is "deeply concerned about the deteriorating security situation and large-scale loss of civilian lives in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war." Also Read | Australia dispatches 'significant' number of troops, jets to Middle East "In these challenging times, India will continue to send humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine...Every effort must be made to create conducive conditions for the resumption of these talks," the Ambassador said. Terming the October 7 Hamas attack as "shocking," India at the UNSC condemned it "unequivocally." The UN representative for India said that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "one of the first global leaders to have conveyed his condolences for the loss of lives and prayers for the innocent victims and their families." Also Read | Israel vs Hamas: Amid upsurge in violence, US begins preparing for mass evacuation if war escalates "We stood in solidarity with Israel at their moment of crisis when they were facing these terror attacks...Our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. Civilian casualties in the ongoing conflict are a matter of serious and continuing concern," he said. Indian aid to Palestinians After the unspeakable onslaught by Hamas, many Palestinians had to bear the brunt of the ensuing war. In the midst of the humanitarian crisis triggered by the unprecedented situation in the region, India stepped in to aid the Palestinians in their plight. Watch | US Secretary of State Antony Blinken says all acts of terrorism are unlawful whether by LET or Hamas × Ambassador R. Ravindra at the open debate said, "India has sent 38 tons of humanitarian goods, including medicines and equipment, to the people of Palestine. India has always negotiated a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine issue, leading to the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable state of Palestine, living within secure and recognized borders, side by side in peace with Israel, taking into account the legitimate security concerns of Israel... We also continue to support the Palestinian people through our bilateral development partnership, which covers a wide range of sectors including health, education, women's empowerment, entrepreneurship, and information technology." He also reiterated India’s commitment to a "just, peaceful, and lasting solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict." (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

At UNSC, India vows continued humanitarian assistance for Palestinians

<p>The live traffic conditions in Israel and Gaza Strip have been disabled by Alphabet-owned Google, reportedly at the request of Israeli military. The development occurs ahead of a much-anticipated potential Israeli ground offensive into Gaza for a purported goal to "dismantle Hamas", the Gaza-based ground that launched a deadly wave of attacks on Israeli civilians on October 7 and left over 1,400 Israelis, mostly&nbsp;civilians, dead.</p>

<p>"As we have done previously in conflict situations and in response to the evolving situation in the region, we have temporarily disabled the ability to see live traffic conditions and busyness information out of consideration for the safety of local communities," a Google spokesperson said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Live traffic information can potentially reveal the troop movements, posing a threat to the potential Israeli troop movements in Gaza.</p>

<p>Earlier in February 2022, shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched an all-out Russian offensive in Ukraine, Google had disabled real-time road traffic data in Ukraine as well, which partly remains in place ever since.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-temporarily-disables-google-maps-live-traffic-data-in-ukraine-457341">Google temporarily disables Google Maps live traffic data in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>However, it doesn't mean that the drivers and people on road won't be able to use the navigation system. They still will be able to see estimated times of arrival based on the live conditions, according to an official Google statement.</p>

<h2><strong>After Google, Apple also disables real-time traffic on Maps</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report in Israeli technology website GeekTime, Apple-owned Maps app has also complied to a similar request by the Israeli army.</p>

<p>Israel is expected to launch a ground offensive into Gaza Strip, with reports in the western media claiming that the Israel's Defense Forces would begin by attempts to dismantle underground tunnels from where Hamas allegedly operates.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Family sues Google maps for allegedly directing man off collapsed bridge</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-family-sues-google-maps-for-allegedly-directing-man-off-collapsed-bridge-638370/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Israel has called up more than 300,000 IDF reservists after October 7 attacks by Hamas.</p>

<p>The country’s purported plan for a ground offensive of Gaza has been criticised over the risk of civilian casualties.</p>


The live traffic conditions in Israel and Gaza Strip have been disabled by Alphabet-owned Google, reportedly at the request of Israeli military. The development occurs ahead of a much-anticipated potential Israeli ground offensive into Gaza for a purported goal to "dismantle Hamas", the Gaza-based ground that launched a deadly wave of attacks on Israeli civilians on October 7 and left over 1,400 Israelis, mostly civilians, dead.

The live traffic conditions in Israel and Gaza Strip have been disabled by Alphabet-owned Google, reportedly at the request of Israeli military. The development occurs ahead of a much-anticipated potential Israeli ground offensive into Gaza for a purported goal to "dismantle Hamas", the Gaza-based ground that launched a deadly wave of attacks on Israeli civilians on October 7 and left over 1,400 Israelis, mostly civilians, dead. "As we have done previously in conflict situations and in response to the evolving situation in the region, we have temporarily disabled the ability to see live traffic conditions and busyness information out of consideration for the safety of local communities," a Google spokesperson said in a statement. What does it mean? Live traffic information can potentially reveal the troop movements, posing a threat to the potential Israeli troop movements in Gaza. Earlier in February 2022, shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched an all-out Russian offensive in Ukraine, Google had disabled real-time road traffic data in Ukraine as well, which partly remains in place ever since. Also read | Google temporarily disables Google Maps live traffic data in Ukraine However, it doesn't mean that the drivers and people on road won't be able to use the navigation system. They still will be able to see estimated times of arrival based on the live conditions, according to an official Google statement. After Google, Apple also disables real-time traffic on Maps According to a report in Israeli technology website GeekTime, Apple-owned Maps app has also complied to a similar request by the Israeli army. Israel is expected to launch a ground offensive into Gaza Strip, with reports in the western media claiming that the Israel's Defense Forces would begin by attempts to dismantle underground tunnels from where Hamas allegedly operates. Also watch | Gravitas: Family sues Google maps for allegedly directing man off collapsed bridge × Israel has called up more than 300,000 IDF reservists after October 7 attacks by Hamas. The country’s purported plan for a ground offensive of Gaza has been criticised over the risk of civilian casualties.

Israel-Hamas war: Ground invasion looming? Israel asks Google to disable live traffic maps in Gaza

<p>Noah Schnapp best known for playing Will Byers in <em>Stranger Things </em>has spoken out in support of Israel amid the country's ongoing war with Hamas. Noha took to Instagram to write a long note and said he wants peace for both Palestinians and Israelis. He also talked about the "silence in social media like never seen before" adding that the Jewish people "won't forget it"</p>

<p>“As a Jewish American, I am afraid. Afraid for my brothers and sisters in Israel, who have been senselessly attacked by Hamas. I am truly heartbroken to see the brutal murders of innocent children, women and soldiers fighting to defend themselves. I, like others, want peace for both Palestinians and Israelis. Let’s stop the rhetoric and choosing sides. Instead, we must recognize that we are all on the side of the fight against terrorism. Choose humanity over violence,” Noah wrote.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CyQ9eq7snwx/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CyQ9eq7snwx/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CyQ9eq7snwx/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CyQ9eq7snwx/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Noah Schnapp (@noahschnapp)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Noah received death threats</strong><br />
<br />
He added, “I just reposted a beautiful picture of a young innocent girl whose life was taken by Hamas at a music festival. I was met with comments reading ‘no one cares about free Palestine’ and ‘she deserves that, and every Israeli terrorist deserves that – Free Palestine.’ I am outraged by the justification and celebration of the death of a young girl's life. Have people lost their minds??? STOP! This is one example of many posts, rallies, and petitions being signed attempting to justify the brutality against these innocent Israeli people. You don’t have to be Jewish, you don’t have to be Israeli, you just have to have empathy and common sense to know that THIS is wrong.”</p>

<p><strong>Silence on social media platforms</strong><br />
<br />
Noah also said, “I have also noticed a silence in social media like never seen before. The same people who love to jump on fashionable causes like supporting Ukraine and combating climate change have been chillingly quiet. The Jewish people are seeing your silence and we won't forget it.”</p>

<p>The actor also condemned Hamas for brutally killing babies. "40 babies were beheaded and burned alive in front of their parents by Hamas. I hope we can agree that Hamas are a recognized terrorist organization: they don't represent the Palestinian people when they value murdering Israelis more than protecting their own. You either stand with Israel or you stand with terrorism. It shouldn't be a difficult choice. Shame on you," wrote the actor.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>'We will pray for Palestine’</strong><br />
<br />
He added, “While you justify the murders and torture of our loved ones, we will hope and pray for safety, justice, liberation, and self-determination in Palestine. While you chant 'Gas the Jews', we will say a Jewish prayer for peace for all Israelis and Palestinians. A reminder that we, the Jewish people, with our love for each other and others, are stronger than your hatred."</p>


Noah Schnapp best known for playing Will Byers in Stranger Things has spoken out in support of Israel amid the country's ongoing war with Hamas. Noha took to Instagram to write a long note and said he wants peace for both Palestinians and Israelis.

Noah Schnapp best known for playing Will Byers in Stranger Things has spoken out in support of Israel amid the country's ongoing war with Hamas. Noha took to Instagram to write a long note and said he wants peace for both Palestinians and Israelis. He also talked about the "silence in social media like never seen before" adding that the Jewish people "won't forget it" “As a Jewish American, I am afraid. Afraid for my brothers and sisters in Israel, who have been senselessly attacked by Hamas. I am truly heartbroken to see the brutal murders of innocent children, women and soldiers fighting to defend themselves. I, like others, want peace for both Palestinians and Israelis. Let’s stop the rhetoric and choosing sides. Instead, we must recognize that we are all on the side of the fight against terrorism. Choose humanity over violence,” Noah wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Noah Schnapp (@noahschnapp) × Noah received death threats He added, “I just reposted a beautiful picture of a young innocent girl whose life was taken by Hamas at a music festival. I was met with comments reading ‘no one cares about free Palestine’ and ‘she deserves that, and every Israeli terrorist deserves that – Free Palestine.’ I am outraged by the justification and celebration of the death of a young girl's life. Have people lost their minds??? STOP! This is one example of many posts, rallies, and petitions being signed attempting to justify the brutality against these innocent Israeli people. You don’t have to be Jewish, you don’t have to be Israeli, you just have to have empathy and common sense to know that THIS is wrong.” Silence on social media platforms Noah also said, “I have also noticed a silence in social media like never seen before. The same people who love to jump on fashionable causes like supporting Ukraine and combating climate change have been chillingly quiet. The Jewish people are seeing your silence and we won't forget it.” The actor also condemned Hamas for brutally killing babies. "40 babies were beheaded and burned alive in front of their parents by Hamas. I hope we can agree that Hamas are a recognized terrorist organization: they don't represent the Palestinian people when they value murdering Israelis more than protecting their own. You either stand with Israel or you stand with terrorism. It shouldn't be a difficult choice. Shame on you," wrote the actor. 'We will pray for Palestine’ He added, “While you justify the murders and torture of our loved ones, we will hope and pray for safety, justice, liberation, and self-determination in Palestine. While you chant 'Gas the Jews', we will say a Jewish prayer for peace for all Israelis and Palestinians. A reminder that we, the Jewish people, with our love for each other and others, are stronger than your hatred."

Stranger Things star Noah Schnapp slams pro-Hamas supporters on social media

<p>Baby Kai was just 9 days old when Hamas terrorists broke into his home in Kibbutz Nirim and set it ablaze. The infant’s fate hung in the balance, and the family had to take the risk of placing him away from lethal smoke in a spot where any terrorist could see him should they return.</p>

<p>The horror lasted for six hours and eventually, the nightmare turned into an amazing tale of miraculous survival.</p>

<p>The story was shared on X by a user Aviva Klompas. The mother of the infant also shared the horrifying experience with Channel 12, a TV channel in Israel.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US readies plans for mass evacuations if Gaza war escalates</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-us-readies-plans-for-mass-evacuations-if-gaza-war-escalates-650937/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"My mom who was with us grabbed Kai and he started crying. She put a finger in his mouth to shut him up as quickly as possible," mother Amy told Channel 12.</p>

<p>She along with her husband Uriel held the doorknob up even as the terrorists tried to enter the house. The family rushed to the “safe room,” beyond the reach of the gunmen.</p>

<p>“We began to see an orange light, thick flames and smoke,” she said, adding their house was set ablaze.</p>

<p>“The smoke still managed to get into the room,” she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-unsc-india-vows-continued-humanitarian-assistance-for-palestinians-650959"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;At UNSC, India vows continued humanitarian assistance for Palestinians</strong></a></p>

<p>Father Uriel sent out an SOS call to the community’s Whatsapp group.</p>

<p>"My house is on fire, we're locked in the shelter, please save us," he wrote.</p>

<p>“When we placed our little one on the windowsill, it was one of the hardest decisions we had to make. On the one hand, if we left him in the safe room, we thought he would probably inhale a lethal amount of smoke, but on the other hand, if we put him on the windowsill, the terrorists could have attacked him,” Uriel described the experience.</p>

<p>“We thought the worst, but we looked each other in the eye and said I love you, and that helped," he concluded.</p>

<p>The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) eventually came to their rescue, leading them and their neighbours to a nearby shelter.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Baby Kai was just 9 days old when Hamas terrorists broke into his home in Kibbutz Nirim and set it ablaze. The infant’s fate hung in the balance, and the family had to take the risk of placing him away from lethal smoke in a spot where any terrorist could see him should they return.

Baby Kai was just 9 days old when Hamas terrorists broke into his home in Kibbutz Nirim and set it ablaze. The infant’s fate hung in the balance, and the family had to take the risk of placing him away from lethal smoke in a spot where any terrorist could see him should they return. The horror lasted for six hours and eventually, the nightmare turned into an amazing tale of miraculous survival. The story was shared on X by a user Aviva Klompas. The mother of the infant also shared the horrifying experience with Channel 12, a TV channel in Israel. Watch: US readies plans for mass evacuations if Gaza war escalates × "My mom who was with us grabbed Kai and he started crying. She put a finger in his mouth to shut him up as quickly as possible," mother Amy told Channel 12. She along with her husband Uriel held the doorknob up even as the terrorists tried to enter the house. The family rushed to the “safe room,” beyond the reach of the gunmen. “We began to see an orange light, thick flames and smoke,” she said, adding their house was set ablaze. “The smoke still managed to get into the room,” she said. Also read: At UNSC, India vows continued humanitarian assistance for Palestinians Father Uriel sent out an SOS call to the community’s Whatsapp group. "My house is on fire, we're locked in the shelter, please save us," he wrote. “When we placed our little one on the windowsill, it was one of the hardest decisions we had to make. On the one hand, if we left him in the safe room, we thought he would probably inhale a lethal amount of smoke, but on the other hand, if we put him on the windowsill, the terrorists could have attacked him,” Uriel described the experience. “We thought the worst, but we looked each other in the eye and said I love you, and that helped," he concluded. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) eventually came to their rescue, leading them and their neighbours to a nearby shelter. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Israel vs Hamas: Soul-stirring survival story of a 9-day-old whose house was set on fire by terrorists

<p>While Joe Biden-led US has emerged as the strongest backer of embattled Israel, it might really end up hurting the reelection bid of the incumbent president in the 2024 elections.</p>

<p>Many Arab and Muslim Americans are voicing anger against what they call Biden’s failure to prevent a humanitarian crisis in Gaza following the Israeli retaliation, which has resulted in the death of more than 5,500 Palestinians so far, as per claims of Gaza officials.</p>

<p>In US, academics, community members, activists and even pro-Palestine administration officials are joining forces to send a loud and clear message to Joe Biden: Israeli actions against Gazans must stop.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts believe that Biden’s open support to Israeli actions could cost him Muslim votes in key states, including Michigan and Pennsylvania.</p>

<h2><strong>Impact on Biden’s re-election bid</strong></h2>

<p>Arab and Muslim voters wield great electoral influence in some key states. In Michigan, they account for 5 per cent of the votes. In other battleground states Pennsylvania and Ohio, they are between 1.7 per cent and 2 per cent.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Half a million Israeli displace | WION Ground report</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-half-a-million-israeli-displace-wion-ground-report-651091/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>It must be noted that Biden won these states in 2020 with a very thin margin. In Michigan, Biden got 50.6 per cent of the votes ahead of Trump’s 47.8 per cent. In Pennsylvania, Biden got 50.01 per cent of the votes, with Trump just falling short of 81,000 votes.</p>

<p>While Muslims are unlikely to vote for Donald Trump, in the event of a possible re-match, they will not vote for Biden either, dimming Biden’s prospects of getting back to the White House.</p>

<h2><strong>Reactions from US Muslims</strong></h2>

<p>CAIR, the largest Muslim civil rights group in the US, alleged that their government was responsible for “ethnic cleansing” in Gaza.</p>

<p>Israel’s bombing of Gaza is "now in the realm of genocide targeting the entire Palestinian population," it said, adding, “Government officials will be complicit in the ethnic cleansing of Gaza" unless they intervene.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trigger-warning-israel-shares-footage-of-oct-7-hamas-attack-to-counter-claims-of-atrocities-650582"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel shares unedited footage Oct 7 attack; Hamas militant boasts to parents `killed 10 Jews`</strong></a></p>

<p>Some also criticised Biden’s vow to give $14 billion in aid to Israel amidst the war.</p>

<p>"If you look at his rhetoric, it's unbelievable, and now they are trying to pump billions and billions of dollars militarily into Israel, with some $100 million in humanitarian aid for the Palestinians," said Sa'ed Atshan, a Quaker Palestinian American who teaches peace and conflict studies at Pennsylvania's Swarthmore College.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


While Joe Biden-led US has emerged as the strongest backer of embattled Israel, it might really end up hurting the reelection bid of the incumbent president in the 2024 elections.

While Joe Biden-led US has emerged as the strongest backer of embattled Israel, it might really end up hurting the reelection bid of the incumbent president in the 2024 elections. Many Arab and Muslim Americans are voicing anger against what they call Biden’s failure to prevent a humanitarian crisis in Gaza following the Israeli retaliation, which has resulted in the death of more than 5,500 Palestinians so far, as per claims of Gaza officials. In US, academics, community members, activists and even pro-Palestine administration officials are joining forces to send a loud and clear message to Joe Biden: Israeli actions against Gazans must stop. Experts believe that Biden’s open support to Israeli actions could cost him Muslim votes in key states, including Michigan and Pennsylvania. Impact on Biden’s re-election bid Arab and Muslim voters wield great electoral influence in some key states. In Michigan, they account for 5 per cent of the votes. In other battleground states Pennsylvania and Ohio, they are between 1.7 per cent and 2 per cent. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: Half a million Israeli displace | WION Ground report × It must be noted that Biden won these states in 2020 with a very thin margin. In Michigan, Biden got 50.6 per cent of the votes ahead of Trump’s 47.8 per cent. In Pennsylvania, Biden got 50.01 per cent of the votes, with Trump just falling short of 81,000 votes. While Muslims are unlikely to vote for Donald Trump, in the event of a possible re-match, they will not vote for Biden either, dimming Biden’s prospects of getting back to the White House. Reactions from US Muslims CAIR, the largest Muslim civil rights group in the US, alleged that their government was responsible for “ethnic cleansing” in Gaza. Israel’s bombing of Gaza is "now in the realm of genocide targeting the entire Palestinian population," it said, adding, “Government officials will be complicit in the ethnic cleansing of Gaza" unless they intervene. Also read: Israel shares unedited footage Oct 7 attack; Hamas militant boasts to parents `killed 10 Jews` Some also criticised Biden’s vow to give $14 billion in aid to Israel amidst the war. "If you look at his rhetoric, it's unbelievable, and now they are trying to pump billions and billions of dollars militarily into Israel, with some $100 million in humanitarian aid for the Palestinians," said Sa'ed Atshan, a Quaker Palestinian American who teaches peace and conflict studies at Pennsylvania's Swarthmore College. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden’s 2024 campaign may take hit as Arab, Muslim Americans criticise US support to Israel

<p>Israeli military leadership is considering inundating the underground tunnels of Hamas before launching a ground invasion into Gaza, a renowned US journalist has reported.</p>

<p>Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Seymour Hersh wrote in his report that the Israeli leadership was even willing to sacrifice those who might currently be held hostages in these tunnels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Israel is now in the process of turning Gaza City into rubble, via constant bombing, and is also planning to begin a ground invasion in the near future," the journalist said citing a senior US official.</p>

<p>He also added that flooding the tunnels would mean that “Israel was prepared to write off the hostages still in jeopardy."</p>

<h2><strong>‘Israel to turn Gaza into Hiroshima’</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, the journalist claimed that Israel was about to turn Gaza into Hiroshima, just without using a nuclear bomb.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Israel continues ground offensive as US urges it to slowdown</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-israel-continues-ground-offensive-as-us-urges-it-to-slowdown-650808/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>He also claimed that Israel was fully backed by the US in its efforts to completely dismantle the underground tunnel infrastructure created by Hamas.</p>

<h2><strong>IDF not yet ready for ground offensive, says US</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, top US officials have said that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) was not ready to initiate a ground invasion of Gaza as they lack achievable military goals.</p>

<p>It was anticipated shortly after the Oct 7 assault by Hamas that the IDF may launch a ground offensive. However, the campaign has been delayed, with some experts blaming USA’s pressure on the Jewish nation.</p>

<h2><strong>US dispatching its own army officials to advise the IDF</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the White House has said the US Army was willing to cooperate with the IDF in its war against Hamas. White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that several senior US Army officers who have experience in “the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting and may conduct in the future” have been dispatched to advise the IDF.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-amid-upsurge-in-violence-us-begins-preparing-for-mass-evacuation-if-war-escalates-650898"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel vs Hamas: Amid upsurge in violence, US begins preparing for mass evacuation if war escalates</strong></a></p>

<p>“We have asked several officials with relevant experience simply to help Israeli officials think through the difficult questions ahead and explore their options. The IDF will, as always, make its own decisions,” a Pentagon spokesperson added.</p>

<p><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Israeli military leadership is considering inundating the underground tunnels of Hamas before launching a ground invasion into Gaza, a renowned US journalist has reported.

Israeli military leadership is considering inundating the underground tunnels of Hamas before launching a ground invasion into Gaza, a renowned US journalist has reported. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Seymour Hersh wrote in his report that the Israeli leadership was even willing to sacrifice those who might currently be held hostages in these tunnels. "Israel is now in the process of turning Gaza City into rubble, via constant bombing, and is also planning to begin a ground invasion in the near future," the journalist said citing a senior US official. He also added that flooding the tunnels would mean that “Israel was prepared to write off the hostages still in jeopardy." ‘Israel to turn Gaza into Hiroshima’ Earlier, the journalist claimed that Israel was about to turn Gaza into Hiroshima, just without using a nuclear bomb. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: Israel continues ground offensive as US urges it to slowdown × He also claimed that Israel was fully backed by the US in its efforts to completely dismantle the underground tunnel infrastructure created by Hamas. IDF not yet ready for ground offensive, says US Meanwhile, top US officials have said that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) was not ready to initiate a ground invasion of Gaza as they lack achievable military goals. It was anticipated shortly after the Oct 7 assault by Hamas that the IDF may launch a ground offensive. However, the campaign has been delayed, with some experts blaming USA’s pressure on the Jewish nation. US dispatching its own army officials to advise the IDF Meanwhile, the White House has said the US Army was willing to cooperate with the IDF in its war against Hamas. White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that several senior US Army officers who have experience in “the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting and may conduct in the future” have been dispatched to advise the IDF. Also read: Israel vs Hamas: Amid upsurge in violence, US begins preparing for mass evacuation if war escalates “We have asked several officials with relevant experience simply to help Israeli officials think through the difficult questions ahead and explore their options. The IDF will, as always, make its own decisions,” a Pentagon spokesperson added. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Israel considering flooding Hamas tunnels before ground invasion, claims famed scribe

<p>The latest war in the Middle East triggered by the Hamas Islamist group has seen a massive retaliation by Israel. Israeli air strikes have taken out many Hamas commanders and pounded their targets. It also boasted of an air, ground, and sea invasion of Gaza. But, the country has so far not started&nbsp;a full-fledged ground invasion.</p>

<p>Given Israel's military might, why is the country shying away from taking this move?</p>

<p>As per an AFP report that quoted experts, there are a multitude of factors at play, including global pressure, divisions between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), and rising concerns for the safety of people held captive by the Hamas militant group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli journalist Nahum Barnea in a daily Yedioth Ahronoth pointed at the ongoing friction between Netanyahu and IDF and attributed this to the cautious moves made by Israel and its decision to put the Gaza ground invasion on a back burner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-considering-inundating-hamas-underground-tunnels-before-ground-invasion-report-651029">Israel considering inundating Hamas’ underground tunnels before ground invasion: Report</a></p>

<p>"There's a crisis of confidence between (Israeli Prime Minister) Benjamin Netanyahu and the IDF (army)," Barnea wrote, adding, "The government is having difficulties taking decisions that everyone agrees on about the top issues."&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Does Netanyahu blame IDF generals for Oct 7 Hamas attack?&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Israel's much-touted Iron Dome missile system failed to protect innocent Israelis after about 5,000 surprise air strikes by Hamas. Barnea, while citing government and military sources in the report, said, "Netanyahu is angry at the generals and blames them for what happened."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another Israeli journalist Amos Harel in Haaretz Daily wrote, "Disputes over these operations are creating tensions, especially between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant."&nbsp;</p>

<p>What is noteworthy is that this political-military divide does not play out in public. In public appearances and official statements, Netanyahu and IDF leadership seem to be in consonance with each other.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-kicked-out-of-israeli-textbooks-after-stand-with-gaza-row-651005">Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row</a></p>

<p>It was reflected in a communique on Tuesday (Oct 24) from the Israeli government. "The prime minister, the defence minister and the IDF chief of staff are working in close and full cooperation, around the clock, to lead the State of Israel to a decisive victory over Hamas," the communique read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is total and mutual trust between the prime minister, the defence minister and the IDF chief of staff; the unity of the goal is clear," it added. So is this a tacit agreement between Netanyahu and IDF to put up a good face for the world?&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Complex situation in Gaza Strip&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While&nbsp;Hamas continues to hold captive many Israelis and foreign nationals, the situation remains complex and any reckless move by Israel could lead to further deterioration of the situation.</p>

<p>Gunmen who made an incursion into Israel took over 200 people hostages, including foreign nationals, and hence the situation remains sensitive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Patrick Bettane, an intelligence specialist at Israel's International Institute for Counter-Terrorism (ICT) think tank, explained that as far as a ground offensive is concerned there remains a "disagreement".</p>

<p>"But the fact that there are hostages being held in the Gaza Strip complicates everything," he reportedly said, adding, "Israel is waiting to see how this problem can be resolved before it acts."</p>

<p>Akiva Eldar, an expert on Israeli politics, reportedly said that "after the emotions (were) aroused by this terrible massacre, Bibi (Netanyahu) and the generals are starting to think differently".</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-hope-rises-among-kin-of-hostages-649904">Israel-Palestine war: Hope rises among kin of hostages</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-hope-rises-among-kin-of-hostages-649904/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>There is international pressure at play as well, especially with the hostage situation.</p>

<p>Many nations including the US, China and Australia have made their military presence felt in the Middle East due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Army chief Herzi Halevi asserted, "We are well prepared for the ground operations in the south." There have been calls by the Israeli PM to fully root out the Hamas Islamist group.</p>

<p>Israel also warned the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, with Israeli army spokesman Jonathan Conricus saying, "Hezbollah... is dragging Lebanon into a war that it will gain nothing from, but stands to lose a lot."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will strike it with a force it cannot even imagine, and the significance for it and the state of Lebanon will be devastating," warned Netanyahu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Political analyst Daniel Bensimon said, "Disagreement or not, it's a fact that Americans and the Europeans are coming to Israel to caress it with honeyed words with the aim of preventing a ground offensive."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The international community fears a ground operation would spark a chain reaction that could engulf the whole region, and maybe even further afield," he said, adding, "But in the end, they want to stop Israel from going into Gaza and prevent Iran from becoming involved through the Shiite Hezbollah movement, its proxy in Lebanon."&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The latest war in the Middle East triggered by the Hamas Islamist group has seen a massive retaliation by Israel. Israeli air strikes have taken out many Hamas commanders and pounded their targets.

The latest war in the Middle East triggered by the Hamas Islamist group has seen a massive retaliation by Israel. Israeli air strikes have taken out many Hamas commanders and pounded their targets. It also boasted of an air, ground, and sea invasion of Gaza. But, the country has so far not started a full-fledged ground invasion. Given Israel's military might, why is the country shying away from taking this move? As per an AFP report that quoted experts, there are a multitude of factors at play, including global pressure, divisions between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), and rising concerns for the safety of people held captive by the Hamas militant group. Israeli journalist Nahum Barnea in a daily Yedioth Ahronoth pointed at the ongoing friction between Netanyahu and IDF and attributed this to the cautious moves made by Israel and its decision to put the Gaza ground invasion on a back burner. Also Read | Israel considering inundating Hamas’ underground tunnels before ground invasion: Report "There's a crisis of confidence between (Israeli Prime Minister) Benjamin Netanyahu and the IDF (army)," Barnea wrote, adding, "The government is having difficulties taking decisions that everyone agrees on about the top issues." Does Netanyahu blame IDF generals for Oct 7 Hamas attack? Israel's much-touted Iron Dome missile system failed to protect innocent Israelis after about 5,000 surprise air strikes by Hamas. Barnea, while citing government and military sources in the report, said, "Netanyahu is angry at the generals and blames them for what happened." Another Israeli journalist Amos Harel in Haaretz Daily wrote, "Disputes over these operations are creating tensions, especially between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant." What is noteworthy is that this political-military divide does not play out in public. In public appearances and official statements, Netanyahu and IDF leadership seem to be in consonance with each other. Also Read | Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row It was reflected in a communique on Tuesday (Oct 24) from the Israeli government. "The prime minister, the defence minister and the IDF chief of staff are working in close and full cooperation, around the clock, to lead the State of Israel to a decisive victory over Hamas," the communique read. "There is total and mutual trust between the prime minister, the defence minister and the IDF chief of staff; the unity of the goal is clear," it added. So is this a tacit agreement between Netanyahu and IDF to put up a good face for the world? Complex situation in Gaza Strip While Hamas continues to hold captive many Israelis and foreign nationals, the situation remains complex and any reckless move by Israel could lead to further deterioration of the situation. Gunmen who made an incursion into Israel took over 200 people hostages, including foreign nationals, and hence the situation remains sensitive. Patrick Bettane, an intelligence specialist at Israel's International Institute for Counter-Terrorism (ICT) think tank, explained that as far as a ground offensive is concerned there remains a "disagreement". "But the fact that there are hostages being held in the Gaza Strip complicates everything," he reportedly said, adding, "Israel is waiting to see how this problem can be resolved before it acts." Akiva Eldar, an expert on Israeli politics, reportedly said that "after the emotions (were) aroused by this terrible massacre, Bibi (Netanyahu) and the generals are starting to think differently". Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Hope rises among kin of hostages × There is international pressure at play as well, especially with the hostage situation. Many nations including the US, China and Australia have made their military presence felt in the Middle East due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Army chief Herzi Halevi asserted, "We are well prepared for the ground operations in the south." There have been calls by the Israeli PM to fully root out the Hamas Islamist group. Israel also warned the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, with Israeli army spokesman Jonathan Conricus saying, "Hezbollah... is dragging Lebanon into a war that it will gain nothing from, but stands to lose a lot." "We will strike it with a force it cannot even imagine, and the significance for it and the state of Lebanon will be devastating," warned Netanyahu. Political analyst Daniel Bensimon said, "Disagreement or not, it's a fact that Americans and the Europeans are coming to Israel to caress it with honeyed words with the aim of preventing a ground offensive." "The international community fears a ground operation would spark a chain reaction that could engulf the whole region, and maybe even further afield," he said, adding, "But in the end, they want to stop Israel from going into Gaza and prevent Iran from becoming involved through the Shiite Hezbollah movement, its proxy in Lebanon." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Explained: Why is Israel putting Gaza's ground invasion on the back-burner?

<p>The government of Israel has warned the people living in the north of Gaza to move to the south or risk being seen as ‘terrorists’. Since Sunni Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007 the Middle East has been sitting on a political volcano.</p>

<p>For decades they have been brainwashing and preparing populations they hold politically ransom for one agenda: the annihilation of the state of Israel and the genocide of the Jewish population.</p>

<p>What the world witnessed on October 7, 2023, was conducted as a surprise attack. The question, however, is why Hamas chose the month of October when Israel was celebrating the 50th anniversary of their victory in the Yom Kippur War (October 6-25); the fourth Arab-Israel war of 1973.</p>

<p>Why was such a brutal attack conducted against Israel when it was breaking peace deals in the Middle East left, right and centre?</p>

<p>It was former US President Jimmy Carter who managed to broker a peace agreement titled ‘Framework for Peace in the Middle East’ known as the Camp David Accord between Egypt, and Israel on September 17, 1978.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/hamas-israel-war-rare-dissent-over-us-arms-for-israel-raises-troubling-questions-650540">Opinion | Hamas-Israel war: Rare dissent over US arms for Israel raises troubling questions</a></p>

<p>On October 26, 1993, Israel accomplished a peace deal with Jordan and signed the ‘Jordan-Israel peace Treaty’ thereby extending peace to a second Arab country.</p>

<p>Any further breakthrough would have to wait until 2020 before Israel could agree for another Arab country to join Israel’s enterprise to establish peace in the region. This time it was the Persian Gulf nation of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that signed the ‘Abraham Accord’.</p>

<p>Another Arab nation, Bahrain, followed the UAE by signing a peace deal with Israel, which then led to the normalisation of relations between Morocco and Israel.</p>

<p>By February 2023 Sudan also had made peace with Israel by officially founding diplomatic relations with the State of Israel.</p>

<p>In recent months, expectations that Saudi Arabia and Israel were at the ‘cusp’ of making a peace deal and establishing full diplomatic relations began to show signs of a possible diplomatic paradigm shift in Middle East politics.</p>

<p>The bottom line is that if Saudi Arabia establishes full trade and diplomatic relations with the State of Israel then many Sunni Muslim states are bound to follow suit.</p>

<p>In a speech delivered to the United Nations General Assembly on September 22, 2023, the prime minister of Israel Benyamin Netanyahu said the following, “I believe that we are at the cusp of an even more dramatic breakthrough: a historic peace with Saudi Arabia.”</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-assault-may-have-destroyed-deep-rooted-beliefs-about-israel-and-palestinians-650579">Opinion | Hamas assault may have destroyed deep-rooted beliefs about Israel and Palestinians</a></p>

<p>But then there is another aspect that needs our attention while considering the purpose of Hamas’s genocidal attack on October 7.</p>

<p>The G-20 (September 2023) summit held in New Delhi India witnessed Saudi Arabia and Israel joining hands with India in an endeavour to establish the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) connecting Asia, the Middle East and Europe thereby creating a new economic passage.</p>

<p>Since its inception on May 14, 1948, the State of Israel has set itself the primary goal to bring peace in a post-colonial, poor and war-torn Middle East.</p>

<p>Therefore, it is safe to conclude that the surprise attack conducted on October 7 on the sovereign State of Israel by Hamas has nothing to do with the desire to establish a Palestinian state alongside Israel but everything to do with sabotaging the efforts to bring peace and prosperity to the region.</p>

<p>Who is benefiting from the violence of Hamas? What purpose does war in the Middle East and West Asia serve?</p>

<p>Firstly, it serves the purpose of bringing peace efforts between Israel and Saudi Arabia to an abrupt halt.</p>

<p>Secondly, it benefits China. The IMEC is now in jeopardy leaving the Middle East vulnerable to the Chinese economic expansionist project called the Belt and Road Initiative.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-holocaust-survivors-struggle-with-israel-war-650967">Israel-Palestine War: Holocaust survivors struggle with Israel war</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-holocaust-survivors-struggle-with-israel-war-650967/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ (BRI) of China which is a maritime Silk Road project connecting China, Southeast Asia, Africa and Europe is in actuality designed to trick poor Asian, African and Middle Eastern countries into the Chinese debt trap and usurping their ports and strategic locations with the sole purpose of hegemonising trade routes.</p>

<p>An alternate shipping route will be created if IMEC is established connecting Mumbai and Gujarat with UAE while a rail network will connect UAE, Saudi Arabia and Jordan with the port of Haifa in Israel therefore reaching the shores of the Mediterranean sea and from there onward to Europe.</p>

<p>Turkey was the first country to oppose this ambitious plan. Why?</p>

<p>Because, Erdogan proposes an alternate route called the ‘Iraq Development Project’ that would connect the Persian Gulf with Europe through a network of railways, highways, and via ports in the UAE, Qatar, and Iraq.</p>

<p>Another Persian Gulf country that is hybrid in its opposition to IMEC is Iran. It is proposing an economic connectivity route for countries bordering the Caspian Sea.</p>

<p>On October 6, during the Second Caspian Sea Forum held in Moscow, Iranian first vice president Mohammed Mokhber came up with the idea of a ‘Green Corridor’ with simplified customs procedures.</p>

<p>Another country with an empire-building desire is Russia. Its government proposes that Russia, Iran, and Azerbaijan work on a joint project that would use the Caspian Sea as a trading outpost for markets in Europe and beyond. This economic corridor would include Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan, which are oil and gas-rich countries.</p>

<p>2008 saw the period of economic growth, credited to the age of globalisation, coming to an abrupt end. The reorganisation of markets in a post-globalisation era led to protectionism.</p>

<p>After undergoing a painful post-2008 protectionist economic period now we have a world that is once again trying to evolve toward a free, open, and integrated global economy by strengthening regional trade alliances for which expansion of spheres of political influence is crucial.</p>

<p>Today, the reorganisation of new economic alliances is manifesting itself through regional wars, be it Ukraine or the Middle East. These conflicts are in fact the birth pangs of a new world order that has yet to be born.</p>

<p>The main challenge, we as global citizens face, is how to make the transition from (national) protectionism towards regional and finally global economic integration, a peaceful process.</p>

<p>One thing seems to be certain.</p>

<p>In order to make the world a better place, evil regimes such as the one harbouring in Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China and their proxies such as Hamas, Hezbollah, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Hizb-ul-Mujahideen, and various others need to be brought down.</p>

<p>As Hamas revealed its evil intentions against innocent civilians in the cities and towns of Ofakim, Sderot, Yad Mordechai, Kfar Aza, Yated and Kissufim killing hundreds of innocent civilians including women and children, burning them alive, beheading them as well as taking 200 of Israeli men and women and foreign nationals hostage, the world cannot remain a silent spectator.</p>

<p>The time has come when once and for all the menace of Islamic Jihadi terrorism has to be flushed out of Gaza and the rest of the Middle East. And that is the sole purpose of Israeli defence forces’ decision to launch a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>In order to have minimum civilian causalities Israel is asking the population of northern Gaza to move to the southern part. If Hamas does not allow this to happen and uses the civilian population as human shields it will only add to the gruesome war crimes Hamas has been inflicting upon the people of both Israel and Gaza.</p>

<p><em><strong>(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.)</strong></em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The government of Israel has warned the people living in the north of Gaza to move to the south or risk being seen as ‘terrorists’. Since Sunni Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007 the Middle East has been sitting on a political volcano.

The government of Israel has warned the people living in the north of Gaza to move to the south or risk being seen as ‘terrorists’. Since Sunni Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007 the Middle East has been sitting on a political volcano. For decades they have been brainwashing and preparing populations they hold politically ransom for one agenda: the annihilation of the state of Israel and the genocide of the Jewish population. What the world witnessed on October 7, 2023, was conducted as a surprise attack. The question, however, is why Hamas chose the month of October when Israel was celebrating the 50th anniversary of their victory in the Yom Kippur War (October 6-25); the fourth Arab-Israel war of 1973. Why was such a brutal attack conducted against Israel when it was breaking peace deals in the Middle East left, right and centre? It was former US President Jimmy Carter who managed to broker a peace agreement titled ‘Framework for Peace in the Middle East’ known as the Camp David Accord between Egypt, and Israel on September 17, 1978. Also Read | Opinion | Hamas-Israel war: Rare dissent over US arms for Israel raises troubling questions On October 26, 1993, Israel accomplished a peace deal with Jordan and signed the ‘Jordan-Israel peace Treaty’ thereby extending peace to a second Arab country. Any further breakthrough would have to wait until 2020 before Israel could agree for another Arab country to join Israel’s enterprise to establish peace in the region. This time it was the Persian Gulf nation of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that signed the ‘Abraham Accord’. Another Arab nation, Bahrain, followed the UAE by signing a peace deal with Israel, which then led to the normalisation of relations between Morocco and Israel. By February 2023 Sudan also had made peace with Israel by officially founding diplomatic relations with the State of Israel. In recent months, expectations that Saudi Arabia and Israel were at the ‘cusp’ of making a peace deal and establishing full diplomatic relations began to show signs of a possible diplomatic paradigm shift in Middle East politics. The bottom line is that if Saudi Arabia establishes full trade and diplomatic relations with the State of Israel then many Sunni Muslim states are bound to follow suit. In a speech delivered to the United Nations General Assembly on September 22, 2023, the prime minister of Israel Benyamin Netanyahu said the following, “I believe that we are at the cusp of an even more dramatic breakthrough: a historic peace with Saudi Arabia.” Also Read | Opinion | Hamas assault may have destroyed deep-rooted beliefs about Israel and Palestinians But then there is another aspect that needs our attention while considering the purpose of Hamas’s genocidal attack on October 7. The G-20 (September 2023) summit held in New Delhi India witnessed Saudi Arabia and Israel joining hands with India in an endeavour to establish the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) connecting Asia, the Middle East and Europe thereby creating a new economic passage. Since its inception on May 14, 1948, the State of Israel has set itself the primary goal to bring peace in a post-colonial, poor and war-torn Middle East. Therefore, it is safe to conclude that the surprise attack conducted on October 7 on the sovereign State of Israel by Hamas has nothing to do with the desire to establish a Palestinian state alongside Israel but everything to do with sabotaging the efforts to bring peace and prosperity to the region. Who is benefiting from the violence of Hamas? What purpose does war in the Middle East and West Asia serve? Firstly, it serves the purpose of bringing peace efforts between Israel and Saudi Arabia to an abrupt halt. Secondly, it benefits China. The IMEC is now in jeopardy leaving the Middle East vulnerable to the Chinese economic expansionist project called the Belt and Road Initiative. Watch | Israel-Palestine War: Holocaust survivors struggle with Israel war × The ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ (BRI) of China which is a maritime Silk Road project connecting China, Southeast Asia, Africa and Europe is in actuality designed to trick poor Asian, African and Middle Eastern countries into the Chinese debt trap and usurping their ports and strategic locations with the sole purpose of hegemonising trade routes. An alternate shipping route will be created if IMEC is established connecting Mumbai and Gujarat with UAE while a rail network will connect UAE, Saudi Arabia and Jordan with the port of Haifa in Israel therefore reaching the shores of the Mediterranean sea and from there onward to Europe. Turkey was the first country to oppose this ambitious plan. Why? Because, Erdogan proposes an alternate route called the ‘Iraq Development Project’ that would connect the Persian Gulf with Europe through a network of railways, highways, and via ports in the UAE, Qatar, and Iraq. Another Persian Gulf country that is hybrid in its opposition to IMEC is Iran. It is proposing an economic connectivity route for countries bordering the Caspian Sea. On October 6, during the Second Caspian Sea Forum held in Moscow, Iranian first vice president Mohammed Mokhber came up with the idea of a ‘Green Corridor’ with simplified customs procedures. Another country with an empire-building desire is Russia. Its government proposes that Russia, Iran, and Azerbaijan work on a joint project that would use the Caspian Sea as a trading outpost for markets in Europe and beyond. This economic corridor would include Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan, which are oil and gas-rich countries. 2008 saw the period of economic growth, credited to the age of globalisation, coming to an abrupt end. The reorganisation of markets in a post-globalisation era led to protectionism. After undergoing a painful post-2008 protectionist economic period now we have a world that is once again trying to evolve toward a free, open, and integrated global economy by strengthening regional trade alliances for which expansion of spheres of political influence is crucial. Today, the reorganisation of new economic alliances is manifesting itself through regional wars, be it Ukraine or the Middle East. These conflicts are in fact the birth pangs of a new world order that has yet to be born. The main challenge, we as global citizens face, is how to make the transition from (national) protectionism towards regional and finally global economic integration, a peaceful process. One thing seems to be certain. In order to make the world a better place, evil regimes such as the one harbouring in Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China and their proxies such as Hamas, Hezbollah, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Hizb-ul-Mujahideen, and various others need to be brought down. As Hamas revealed its evil intentions against innocent civilians in the cities and towns of Ofakim, Sderot, Yad Mordechai, Kfar Aza, Yated and Kissufim killing hundreds of innocent civilians including women and children, burning them alive, beheading them as well as taking 200 of Israeli men and women and foreign nationals hostage, the world cannot remain a silent spectator. The time has come when once and for all the menace of Islamic Jihadi terrorism has to be flushed out of Gaza and the rest of the Middle East. And that is the sole purpose of Israeli defence forces’ decision to launch a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip. In order to have minimum civilian causalities Israel is asking the population of northern Gaza to move to the southern part. If Hamas does not allow this to happen and uses the civilian population as human shields it will only add to the gruesome war crimes Hamas has been inflicting upon the people of both Israel and Gaza. (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.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Israel gives final warning: Leave or be treated as terrorists

<p>A German diplomat who previously served as the European Union envoy to Gaza is being slammed by people who claim that a clip of him paragliding over Gaza in July inspired Hamas to carry out similar attacks against Israel.</p>

<p>In July, Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff was filmed conducting “the first Gaza paragliding flight in history” as he soared over Gaza’s coast while shouting, “Free Palestine!”</p>

<p>The then EU envoy had told Palestinians in the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/OhsokI3wUwY">clip</a> that once they are free, “You can do exactly the same thing.”</p>

<h2><strong>Video goes viral&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The video went viral around two days ago, following the Isael-Hamas war, as it reminded many of the October 7 assault when the militants first began their coordinated attack by paragliding into a music festival in Israel.</p>

<p>Hundreds of people were killed when militants opened fire on the festival-goers, with many taken hostage in Gaza.</p>

<p>But what riled up many was when von Burgsdorff in a recent radio interview, criticised Israel for what he said was an "unjustified" attack on Gaza in response to the Hamas attack. The remarks prompted netizens to dig out his old video to claim that his&nbsp;recreational stunt inspired Hamas to launch the terrorist attack.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff for introducing Gazans to paragliding! Job well done, really!<br />
I know you meant well but the road to hell is paved with good intentions. And hell it was for many people thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HamasTerrorists?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HamasTerrorists</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreeGazaFromHamas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreeGazaFromHamas</a> <a href="https://t.co/WcrGv1Srky">pic.twitter.com/WcrGv1Srky</a></p>
— Benny, #MTBing in Israel (@omadawnx) <a href="https://twitter.com/omadawnx/status/1716172406031634725?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Envoy slams Israel&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>“It cannot be that Israel has carte blanche because terrible acts, cruel and shocking acts happened to 1,000 or even 1,200 Israelis,” von Burgsdorff said during a recent radio interview.</p>

<p>“This is not the excuse you can use to flatten Gaza,” he added, the New York Post reported.</p>

<p>“It cannot be that Israel is threatening to bomb corridors and shipments carrying humanitarian equipment. It cannot be. It is another war crime if it happens,” he said.</p>

<p>The remarks were criticised by Israel’s foreign ministry calling the show “provocative” propaganda that only served to bolster Hamas.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ground-offensive-in-gaza-at-the-time-of-our-choosing-says-israel-govt-spokesperson-eylon-levy-650423">Ground offensive in Gaza at the time of our choosing, says Israel govt spokesperson&nbsp;Eylon Levy</a></p>

<p>“The European diplomat forgot a long time ago that he represents the European Union and its member states,” the ministry said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-israel-bombed-syrian-airports-in-the-thick-of-its-ongoing-war-with-hamas-650322">Explained | Why did Israel bomb Syrian airports in the thick of its ongoing war with Hamas?</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Israel’s ongoing war with Hamas as an existential battle against the “forces of darkness".</p>

<p>He equated the fight against Hamas to a struggle between the “forces of light” representing humanity and the “forces of darkness” embodying animalism, The Times of Israel reported. He emphasised that the main objective was to secure victory over Hamas.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A German diplomat who previously served as the European Union envoy to Gaza is being slammed by people who claim that a clip of him paragliding over Gaza in July inspired Hamas to carry out similar attacks against Israel.

A German diplomat who previously served as the European Union envoy to Gaza is being slammed by people who claim that a clip of him paragliding over Gaza in July inspired Hamas to carry out similar attacks against Israel. In July, Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff was filmed conducting “the first Gaza paragliding flight in history” as he soared over Gaza’s coast while shouting, “Free Palestine!” The then EU envoy had told Palestinians in the clip that once they are free, “You can do exactly the same thing.” Video goes viral The video went viral around two days ago, following the Isael-Hamas war, as it reminded many of the October 7 assault when the militants first began their coordinated attack by paragliding into a music festival in Israel. Hundreds of people were killed when militants opened fire on the festival-goers, with many taken hostage in Gaza. But what riled up many was when von Burgsdorff in a recent radio interview, criticised Israel for what he said was an "unjustified" attack on Gaza in response to the Hamas attack. The remarks prompted netizens to dig out his old video to claim that his recreational stunt inspired Hamas to launch the terrorist attack. Thank you Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff for introducing Gazans to paragliding! Job well done, really! I know you meant well but the road to hell is paved with good intentions. And hell it was for many people thanks to #HamasTerrorists #FreeGazaFromHamas pic.twitter.com/WcrGv1Srky — Benny, #MTBing in Israel (@omadawnx) October 22, 2023 × Envoy slams Israel “It cannot be that Israel has carte blanche because terrible acts, cruel and shocking acts happened to 1,000 or even 1,200 Israelis,” von Burgsdorff said during a recent radio interview. “This is not the excuse you can use to flatten Gaza,” he added, the New York Post reported. “It cannot be that Israel is threatening to bomb corridors and shipments carrying humanitarian equipment. It cannot be. It is another war crime if it happens,” he said. The remarks were criticised by Israel’s foreign ministry calling the show “provocative” propaganda that only served to bolster Hamas. Also read | Ground offensive in Gaza at the time of our choosing, says Israel govt spokesperson Eylon Levy “The European diplomat forgot a long time ago that he represents the European Union and its member states,” the ministry said in a statement. Also read | Explained | Why did Israel bomb Syrian airports in the thick of its ongoing war with Hamas? Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Israel’s ongoing war with Hamas as an existential battle against the “forces of darkness". He equated the fight against Hamas to a struggle between the “forces of light” representing humanity and the “forces of darkness” embodying animalism, The Times of Israel reported. He emphasised that the main objective was to secure victory over Hamas. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

German diplomat slammed for ‘inspiring’ Hamas to launch paragliding-style attack against Israel

<p>Eylon Levy, the Israeli government spokesperson, has said that military action inside the Gaza strip will happen at the "time of our choosing" and focus of his country is to "totally destroy the military and governing capabilities" of Hamas.</p>

<p>The terror attack by Hamas on October 7 shocked the West Asian country and the world, during which 1400 Israelis were killed and over 200 taken as hostages.</p>

<p>Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal,&nbsp;Levy said, "We are going to destroy Hamas, we are going to enter the Gaza Strip and totally demolish the entirety of its military terrorist and governing structure inside the Gaza Strip."</p>

<p>Since the attacks, Israel increased its air strikes in Gaza to deal with Hamas hideouts, but this has led to a humanitarian crisis as well.</p>

<p>The spokesperson explained, " Israel isn't targeting civilians, we are targeting Hamas. That's why we are asking civilians inside the Gaza Strip to step out of the way, out of the areas that are going to see very heavy fighting because we don't want them to get hurt as we proceed with our campaign to destroy Hamas's terror infrastructure".</p>

<p><strong>Here’s the full interview:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>WION: Will there be a ground offensive in Gaza, particularly northern Gaza in the next few days?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Eylon Levy:</strong> Israel remains united around one goal, victory, total victory against Hamas. Our goal is to totally destroy the military and governing capabilities of the brutal terror organization that perpetrated the October 7 massacre. This is the worst terrorist attack in world history since 9/11. Around 1400 Israelis were murdered, Hamas death squads went door-to-door and beheaded babies, burning whole families alive, committing brutal acts of rape, tying parents and children together and setting them on fire, mutilating them, &nbsp;torturing them before their deaths. About 5,000 people have been injured.</p>

<p>There are now more than 220 Israeli hostages , some babies as young as a few months old in captivity, hostages inside the Gaza Strip and we've decided in response to that, that we are going to totally defeat Hamas. Now&nbsp;Israel is going to use its force carefully and judiciously, we will act and proceed with the ground offensive at a time of our choosing , when it is right for our operational needs. But the world needs to understand that the situation now is different. The road ahead is going to be long.&nbsp;It is going to be difficult, but Hamas declared war on us on the seventh of October with that brutal attack against our people and we have no choice now but to win that war.&nbsp;And that war will end with the total defeat of Hamas in the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: The Israeli president claimed that Hamas used cyanide. Can you elaborate?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Eylon Levy:</strong> President Isaac Herzog said that Hamas fighters had in fact been carrying on their bodies instruction manuals from al-Qaeda, the terror organisation behind 911, showing that they had information in order to build cyanide, use chemical weapons against our people. This shows the connection between Hamas, al Qaeda and ISIS, and shows exactly why it's in the same league as the terror organisations all around the world who commit horrific crimes against humanity that they have perpetrated.</p>

<p>This is why we are going after Hamas with an intent to destroy it, not to deter it, not to degrade it, to destroy it, because Hamas has revealed itself as the face of sheer, pure , unadulterated evil that would do by the way, exactly the same as it did on October the seventh if given half a chance and murder as many people inside Israel as it could by burning them, by beheading them, using chemical weapons if it could, and that is why we are going to continue with our campaign to destroy Hamas.</p>

<p>And, we appreciate all the international support and solidarity that we've been receiving, including from the people of India, all around the world, people understanding that Israel not only has a right, it has a duty to defend itself against these barbarians, these terrorists in the wake of these atrocious, atrocious crimes against humanity.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: While Israel has been acting against Hamas, there has been a humanitarian challenge in Gaza. You have asked the people to move towards the south. So, what do you have to say about the humanitarian and the collateral loss which is happening in Gaza?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Eylon Levy:</strong> &nbsp;First and foremost, I would say that the humanitarian question is on the minds of Israelis around the country, and so is the fate and condition of the more than 220 Israeli hostages, inside the Gaza Strip. We're talking about babies some a few months old. Elderly people over the age of 80 without medication being kept in a brutal tunnel somewhere by a terrorist organization&nbsp;that tortured, murdered their families in Israel, not given access to the Red Cross.</p>

<p>Now it's the humanitarian question that is concerning everyone in Israel. But as for the civilians in Gaza, it's important to say&nbsp;Israel isn't targeting civilians, we are targeting Hamas. That's why we are asking civilians inside the Gaza Strip to step out of the way, out of the areas that are going to see very heavy fighting because we don't want them to get hurt as we proceed with our campaign to destroy Hamas's terror infrastructure.</p>

<p>Now, we've all been watching the same images on TV, the images coming out of the Gaza Strip are very difficult to watch. And I think the world is right to be outraged. But that outrage needs to be directed at the brutal terrorist organization that has subjugated the people of Gaza for the last 16 years subordinating them to its terrorist regime. It should be directed at the terror organization that has consistently stolen humanitarian aid , the terror organization that has embedded itself among civilian areas, under people's homes, under schools, under hospitals and the terror organization that is physically preventing people from escaping and as much as&nbsp;Israel is trying to do everything we're trying to do to keep civilians safe inside the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;By the way,&nbsp;Israel has also evacuated over 100,000 of our own people away from areas of combat because we don't want them to be hurt, but it's important to understand everything that happens inside the Gaza Strip. Any human suffering that happens there is solely and squarely the responsibility and fault of Hamas, the evil terrorist organization that perpetrated the October 7 massacre.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: Do you think that the situation is getting worse in the northern border? Do you expect Hezbollah to open another front which can be a worrisome factor for Israel?</strong></p>

<p>Eylon Levy: &nbsp;Israel is not interested in a war on two fronts, despite Hezbollah's efforts to escalate the situation in the north and step up its attacks against our people, our forces&nbsp;under the direction and guidance of Iran. Israel does not want to fight on two fronts. We are focusing at the moment on destroying Hamas in the Gaza Strip in response to the October 7 massacre. But it's important to understand that Israel is ready to fight that war. We are ready to defend our people and we will win that war. We hold the state of Lebanon responsible and accountable for any attacks emanating from its territory and as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the consequences for Lebanon will indeed be severe. If Hezbollah drags us into a full-scale war, we don't want that to happen, but if they do, we're ready to fight. We're ready to defend our people and we're ready to win.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: As you mentioned the hostage situation is a concerning situation as many of them are foreign nationals as well. What do you expect, any positive glimmer of hope? We saw two American hostages being released. So, when it comes to the fate of other hostages, what kind of conversations are happening?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Eylon Levy:</strong> First of all, we of course welcomed the release of the two hostages. There are now more than another 220 and we expect more international pressure to secure their release as well. Our demand is clear and unequivocal. We demand the immediate and unconditional release of every single one of those hostages, we demand that In the meanwhile, they be given access to the International Red Cross. That's a basic humanitarian condition. We want them back and Israel is going to do everything necessary in order to bring back our hostages from those babies to the elderly people and make sure that they are brought back to the loving embrace of their families because there is no excuse, &nbsp;there is absolutely zero excuse for ripping a baby, shooting its parents and taking it into captivity inside the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;No excuse in the whole world must be absolutely clear that what Hamas did was a war crime, that it's unforgivable. And we need our people back.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: You talked about the ground offensive. Does that option remain on the table because there's a lot of anger in Israel over the terror attack by Hamas. So, is this an option that will be eventually exercised by the Israeli government?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Eylon Levy: </strong>&nbsp;The next stage in the campaign to destroy Hamas. I'm not going to speculate live on TV exactly when that will happen. But it will happen in accordance with our operational needs. Because the October 7 massacre showed us that we as a country simply can no longer live beside an ISIS style terror organisation. We can no longer leave it with the abilities to perpetrate such a massacre. Again, we will not accept a quick fix.</p>

<p>That takes us back to the situation at 6am on the morning of October 7. We are going to destroy Hamas, we are going to enter the Gaza Strip and totally demolish the entirety of its military terrorist and governing structure inside the Gaza Strip. We're going for complete victory and we're going to use our force carefully and judiciously as we pursue that goal.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Eylon Levy, the Israeli government spokesperson, has said that military action inside the Gaza strip will happen at the "time of our choosing" and focus of his country is to "totally destroy the military and governing capabilities" of Hamas.

Eylon Levy, the Israeli government spokesperson, has said that military action inside the Gaza strip will happen at the "time of our choosing" and focus of his country is to "totally destroy the military and governing capabilities" of Hamas. The terror attack by Hamas on October 7 shocked the West Asian country and the world, during which 1400 Israelis were killed and over 200 taken as hostages. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Levy said, "We are going to destroy Hamas, we are going to enter the Gaza Strip and totally demolish the entirety of its military terrorist and governing structure inside the Gaza Strip." Since the attacks, Israel increased its air strikes in Gaza to deal with Hamas hideouts, but this has led to a humanitarian crisis as well. The spokesperson explained, " Israel isn't targeting civilians, we are targeting Hamas. That's why we are asking civilians inside the Gaza Strip to step out of the way, out of the areas that are going to see very heavy fighting because we don't want them to get hurt as we proceed with our campaign to destroy Hamas's terror infrastructure". Here’s the full interview: WION: Will there be a ground offensive in Gaza, particularly northern Gaza in the next few days? Eylon Levy: Israel remains united around one goal, victory, total victory against Hamas. Our goal is to totally destroy the military and governing capabilities of the brutal terror organization that perpetrated the October 7 massacre. This is the worst terrorist attack in world history since 9/11. Around 1400 Israelis were murdered, Hamas death squads went door-to-door and beheaded babies, burning whole families alive, committing brutal acts of rape, tying parents and children together and setting them on fire, mutilating them, torturing them before their deaths. About 5,000 people have been injured. There are now more than 220 Israeli hostages , some babies as young as a few months old in captivity, hostages inside the Gaza Strip and we've decided in response to that, that we are going to totally defeat Hamas. Now Israel is going to use its force carefully and judiciously, we will act and proceed with the ground offensive at a time of our choosing , when it is right for our operational needs. But the world needs to understand that the situation now is different. The road ahead is going to be long. It is going to be difficult, but Hamas declared war on us on the seventh of October with that brutal attack against our people and we have no choice now but to win that war. And that war will end with the total defeat of Hamas in the Gaza Strip. WION: The Israeli president claimed that Hamas used cyanide. Can you elaborate? Eylon Levy: President Isaac Herzog said that Hamas fighters had in fact been carrying on their bodies instruction manuals from al-Qaeda, the terror organisation behind 911, showing that they had information in order to build cyanide, use chemical weapons against our people. This shows the connection between Hamas, al Qaeda and ISIS, and shows exactly why it's in the same league as the terror organisations all around the world who commit horrific crimes against humanity that they have perpetrated. This is why we are going after Hamas with an intent to destroy it, not to deter it, not to degrade it, to destroy it, because Hamas has revealed itself as the face of sheer, pure , unadulterated evil that would do by the way, exactly the same as it did on October the seventh if given half a chance and murder as many people inside Israel as it could by burning them, by beheading them, using chemical weapons if it could, and that is why we are going to continue with our campaign to destroy Hamas. And, we appreciate all the international support and solidarity that we've been receiving, including from the people of India, all around the world, people understanding that Israel not only has a right, it has a duty to defend itself against these barbarians, these terrorists in the wake of these atrocious, atrocious crimes against humanity. WION: While Israel has been acting against Hamas, there has been a humanitarian challenge in Gaza. You have asked the people to move towards the south. So, what do you have to say about the humanitarian and the collateral loss which is happening in Gaza? Eylon Levy: First and foremost, I would say that the humanitarian question is on the minds of Israelis around the country, and so is the fate and condition of the more than 220 Israeli hostages, inside the Gaza Strip. We're talking about babies some a few months old. Elderly people over the age of 80 without medication being kept in a brutal tunnel somewhere by a terrorist organization that tortured, murdered their families in Israel, not given access to the Red Cross. Now it's the humanitarian question that is concerning everyone in Israel. But as for the civilians in Gaza, it's important to say Israel isn't targeting civilians, we are targeting Hamas. That's why we are asking civilians inside the Gaza Strip to step out of the way, out of the areas that are going to see very heavy fighting because we don't want them to get hurt as we proceed with our campaign to destroy Hamas's terror infrastructure. Now, we've all been watching the same images on TV, the images coming out of the Gaza Strip are very difficult to watch. And I think the world is right to be outraged. But that outrage needs to be directed at the brutal terrorist organization that has subjugated the people of Gaza for the last 16 years subordinating them to its terrorist regime. It should be directed at the terror organization that has consistently stolen humanitarian aid , the terror organization that has embedded itself among civilian areas, under people's homes, under schools, under hospitals and the terror organization that is physically preventing people from escaping and as much as Israel is trying to do everything we're trying to do to keep civilians safe inside the Gaza Strip. By the way, Israel has also evacuated over 100,000 of our own people away from areas of combat because we don't want them to be hurt, but it's important to understand everything that happens inside the Gaza Strip. Any human suffering that happens there is solely and squarely the responsibility and fault of Hamas, the evil terrorist organization that perpetrated the October 7 massacre. WION: Do you think that the situation is getting worse in the northern border? Do you expect Hezbollah to open another front which can be a worrisome factor for Israel? Eylon Levy: Israel is not interested in a war on two fronts, despite Hezbollah's efforts to escalate the situation in the north and step up its attacks against our people, our forces under the direction and guidance of Iran. Israel does not want to fight on two fronts. We are focusing at the moment on destroying Hamas in the Gaza Strip in response to the October 7 massacre. But it's important to understand that Israel is ready to fight that war. We are ready to defend our people and we will win that war. We hold the state of Lebanon responsible and accountable for any attacks emanating from its territory and as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the consequences for Lebanon will indeed be severe. If Hezbollah drags us into a full-scale war, we don't want that to happen, but if they do, we're ready to fight. We're ready to defend our people and we're ready to win. WION: As you mentioned the hostage situation is a concerning situation as many of them are foreign nationals as well. What do you expect, any positive glimmer of hope? We saw two American hostages being released. So, when it comes to the fate of other hostages, what kind of conversations are happening? Eylon Levy: First of all, we of course welcomed the release of the two hostages. There are now more than another 220 and we expect more international pressure to secure their release as well. Our demand is clear and unequivocal. We demand the immediate and unconditional release of every single one of those hostages, we demand that In the meanwhile, they be given access to the International Red Cross. That's a basic humanitarian condition. We want them back and Israel is going to do everything necessary in order to bring back our hostages from those babies to the elderly people and make sure that they are brought back to the loving embrace of their families because there is no excuse, there is absolutely zero excuse for ripping a baby, shooting its parents and taking it into captivity inside the Gaza Strip. No excuse in the whole world must be absolutely clear that what Hamas did was a war crime, that it's unforgivable. And we need our people back. WION: You talked about the ground offensive. Does that option remain on the table because there's a lot of anger in Israel over the terror attack by Hamas. So, is this an option that will be eventually exercised by the Israeli government? Eylon Levy: The next stage in the campaign to destroy Hamas. I'm not going to speculate live on TV exactly when that will happen. But it will happen in accordance with our operational needs. Because the October 7 massacre showed us that we as a country simply can no longer live beside an ISIS style terror organisation. We can no longer leave it with the abilities to perpetrate such a massacre. Again, we will not accept a quick fix. That takes us back to the situation at 6am on the morning of October 7. We are going to destroy Hamas, we are going to enter the Gaza Strip and totally demolish the entirety of its military terrorist and governing structure inside the Gaza Strip. We're going for complete victory and we're going to use our force carefully and judiciously as we pursue that goal. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ground offensive in Gaza at the time of our choosing, says Israel govt spokesperson Eylon Levy

<p>The United Nations World Food Programme distributed canned fish and other food supplies in war-torn Gaza on Monday (Oct 23) as the Israel-Hamas rages on for more than two weeks. So far, three convoys of aid trucks have entered Gaza through Rafah crossing.</p>

<p>At least 17 people have been killed and over after two trains collided in Bangladesh 100 are injured after two trains collided in Bangladesh's Bhairab. Officials said that the death toll will rise, with rescuers reporting they could still see bodies crushed and trapped under overturned coaches.</p>

<p>In other news, Maldives President-elect Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his strong China leanings, has reportedly told India to remove its army troops from the country.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-israel-strikes-gaza-lebanon-overnight-650107"><strong>Israel-Hamas war LIVE: UN distributes humanitarian aid in Gaza</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/23/388489-untitled-design-61.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The United Nations World Food Programme distributed canned fish and other food supplies in war-torn Gaza&nbsp;on Monday (October 23) as a third convoy of aid trucks entered the Rafah crossing. The Israel-Hamas war has been going on for nearly 17 days now.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-at-least-eight-killed-in-train-collision-at-bhairab-death-toll-expected-to-rise-650323">Bangladesh: Passenger and freight trains collide; 17 dead, over 100 injured, toll likely to go up</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/23/388486-bangladesh-train-accident.jpeg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>At least 17 people have been killed and more than 100 have been injured after two trains collided in Bangladesh on Monday (Oct 23). The crash in the eastern city of Bhairab saw a freight train smash into a passenger train travelling in the opposite direction, derailing two passenger carriages.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/told-india-to-remove-military-troops-from-maldives-president-elect-mohamed-muizzu-650390"><strong>Told India to remove military troops from Maldives: President-elect Mohamed Muizzu</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/03/383527-mald.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Maldives President-elect Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his strong China leanings, has reportedly told India to remove its army troops from the country.&nbsp;Muizzu has repeatedly claimed that under Solih’s administration, Maldives’ sovereignty was threatened by the Indian military personnel on the island—a rallying point of the party's yearslong “India out” strategy.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-erdogan-signs-swedens-nato-membership-application-sends-to-parliament-650389">Turkey: Erdogan signs Sweden's NATO membership application, sends to parliament</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/16/380115-succession-2023-09-16t173512770.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>President Recep Tayyip Erdogan officially submitted Sweden's NATO membership application to the Turkish parliament on Monday, his office said, bringing closer the possible end of a 17-month standoff.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-finds-98-per-cent-population-in-world-experienced-effects-of-global-warming-650334">Study finds 98 per cent population in world experienced effects of global warming</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/28/375890-the-capitals-when-new-delhis-chandrayaan-triumph-took-over-brics-leaders-in-johannesburg-3.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>A new report has shown that 98 per cent of Earth's population experienced higher temperatures from June to August. This was caused by effects of Global Warming made more than twice likely by greenhouse gases caused by human activities. The peer-reviewed research was reported by Euronews. The research was reportedly published last week.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-ukrainians-to-brace-for-winter-of-russian-strikes-on-energy-grid-650382"><strong>Ukraine war: Ukrainians to brace for winter of Russian strikes on energy grid</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/23/388502-ukraine-winter.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Ukrainians are preparing firewood and candles to brace for a winter of Russian strikes on the energy grid. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Monday (Oct 23), people have been purchasing candles, batteries, flashlights, and portable lanterns and stocking up on compact gas canisters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/get-it-over-with-most-americans-are-fed-up-of-drama-over-us-house-of-representatives-speaker-says-survey-650257"><strong>Get it over with: Most Americans are fed up of drama over US House speaker, says survey</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/11/26487-us%25252520house-20170715100203-20170726125606.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Americans are fed up with the political drama in the US House of Representatives which is still struggling to elect a House Speaker. A poll conducted by USA TODAY/Suffolk University has revealed that 67 per cent of the respondents&nbsp;want American politicians across party lines to see to it that the political drama is over soon.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunaks-old-mobile-number-voicemail-recording-leaked-online-650378"><strong>UK: PM Rishi Sunak's old mobile number, voicemail recording leaked online</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/05/330295-britainsunak100days98648.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's old personal phone number has been leaked online, causing concerns about the security and privacy of government officials.&nbsp;The breach came to light when pranksters on social media shared audio recordings of Sunak's phone ringing and the Prime Minister's message response.,&nbsp;Express.co.uk&nbsp;reported.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/like-this-rohit-sharma-because-india-are-winning-more-convincingly-in-cwc-23-says-sanjay-manjrekar-650365"><strong>Like this Rohit Sharma because India are winning more convincingly in CWC '23, says Sanjay Manjrekar</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/23/388494-collage-maker-23-oct-2023-06-42-pm-548.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India continued their winning run when they locked horns with New Zealand in match 21 of the ICC ODI World Cup, at home, on Sunday (Oct 22) in Dharamsala. Both sides met each other being unbeaten in the ten-team tournament and produced an intense battle, where India eventually went past the Kiwis by four wickets in pursuit of 274.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-i%E2%80%99ll-always-have-your-back-arjun-kapoor-pens-down-heartfelt-post-for-malaika-arora-on-her-50th-bday-650397"><strong>I’ll always have your back! Arjun Kapoor pens down heartfelt post for Malaika Arora on her 50th b'day</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/23/388512-happy-30th-birthday-2023-10-23t212319551.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Malaika Arora turned 50 today (Oct 23). On the big day, her beau, Arjun Kapoor, extended the loveliest wish one could ever imagine.The actor wishes his girlfriend a sweet picture and a heartwarming caption that will definitely make you go aww!</p>


The United Nations World Food Programme distributed canned fish and other food supplies in war-torn Gaza on Monday (Oct 23) as the Israel-Hamas rages on for more than two weeks.

The United Nations World Food Programme distributed canned fish and other food supplies in war-torn Gaza on Monday (Oct 23) as the Israel-Hamas rages on for more than two weeks. So far, three convoys of aid trucks have entered Gaza through Rafah crossing. At least 17 people have been killed and over after two trains collided in Bangladesh 100 are injured after two trains collided in Bangladesh's Bhairab. Officials said that the death toll will rise, with rescuers reporting they could still see bodies crushed and trapped under overturned coaches. In other news, Maldives President-elect Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his strong China leanings, has reportedly told India to remove its army troops from the country. Click on the headlines to read more: Israel-Hamas war LIVE: UN distributes humanitarian aid in Gaza The United Nations World Food Programme distributed canned fish and other food supplies in war-torn Gaza on Monday (October 23) as a third convoy of aid trucks entered the Rafah crossing. The Israel-Hamas war has been going on for nearly 17 days now. Bangladesh: Passenger and freight trains collide; 17 dead, over 100 injured, toll likely to go up At least 17 people have been killed and more than 100 have been injured after two trains collided in Bangladesh on Monday (Oct 23). The crash in the eastern city of Bhairab saw a freight train smash into a passenger train travelling in the opposite direction, derailing two passenger carriages. Told India to remove military troops from Maldives: President-elect Mohamed Muizzu Maldives President-elect Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his strong China leanings, has reportedly told India to remove its army troops from the country. Muizzu has repeatedly claimed that under Solih’s administration, Maldives’ sovereignty was threatened by the Indian military personnel on the island—a rallying point of the party's yearslong “India out” strategy. Turkey: Erdogan signs Sweden's NATO membership application, sends to parliament President Recep Tayyip Erdogan officially submitted Sweden's NATO membership application to the Turkish parliament on Monday, his office said, bringing closer the possible end of a 17-month standoff. Study finds 98 per cent population in world experienced effects of global warming A new report has shown that 98 per cent of Earth's population experienced higher temperatures from June to August. This was caused by effects of Global Warming made more than twice likely by greenhouse gases caused by human activities. The peer-reviewed research was reported by Euronews. The research was reportedly published last week. Ukraine war: Ukrainians to brace for winter of Russian strikes on energy grid Ukrainians are preparing firewood and candles to brace for a winter of Russian strikes on the energy grid. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Monday (Oct 23), people have been purchasing candles, batteries, flashlights, and portable lanterns and stocking up on compact gas canisters. Get it over with: Most Americans are fed up of drama over US House speaker, says survey Americans are fed up with the political drama in the US House of Representatives which is still struggling to elect a House Speaker. A poll conducted by USA TODAY/Suffolk University has revealed that 67 per cent of the respondents want American politicians across party lines to see to it that the political drama is over soon. UK: PM Rishi Sunak's old mobile number, voicemail recording leaked online UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's old personal phone number has been leaked online, causing concerns about the security and privacy of government officials. The breach came to light when pranksters on social media shared audio recordings of Sunak's phone ringing and the Prime Minister's message response., Express.co.uk reported. Like this Rohit Sharma because India are winning more convincingly in CWC '23, says Sanjay Manjrekar Rohit Sharma-led India continued their winning run when they locked horns with New Zealand in match 21 of the ICC ODI World Cup, at home, on Sunday (Oct 22) in Dharamsala. Both sides met each other being unbeaten in the ten-team tournament and produced an intense battle, where India eventually went past the Kiwis by four wickets in pursuit of 274. I’ll always have your back! Arjun Kapoor pens down heartfelt post for Malaika Arora on her 50th b'day Malaika Arora turned 50 today (Oct 23). On the big day, her beau, Arjun Kapoor, extended the loveliest wish one could ever imagine.The actor wishes his girlfriend a sweet picture and a heartwarming caption that will definitely make you go aww!

Top 10 world news: UN distributes aid in Gaza, 17 killed in Bangladesh train collision, & more

<p>The visuals of two Israeli-American women being brought into Israel, nearly two weeks after they were taken hostage and were being held captive&nbsp;by Hamas, has stoked reactions of hope for more such releases. So far, the total number of individuals held hostage by Hamas is numbered up to 203, with the final number likely to rise, according to Israel's Defense Forces (IDF).</p>

<p>Judith Tai Raanan and her daughter Natalie Shoshana Raanan were back in Israel late Friday, the Israeli government said.</p>

<p>The two women were at the Nahal Oz kibbutz, less than two kilometres from Gaza, when Hamas&nbsp;members broke through a border fence on 7 October, and slaughtered over 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and abducted&nbsp;more than 200 others to hold them hostage in Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-gaza-hospital-palestine-death-toll-yemen-netanyahu-latest-news-updates-648997">Israel-Hamas war: Gaza's Hamas says two US hostages released</a></strong></p>

<p>US President Joe Biden&nbsp;said he was "overjoyed" at the news of the release of hostages. While Hamas said that it was working with Qatar and Egypt to free its "civilian" hostages, a sign that more releases could follow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The photo released after Judith and Natalie Raanan finally made it to safety showed the two women looking exhausted and pale, a reflection of the appalling&nbsp;ordeal faced by the two.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine War: The Hostage Crisis | What is Israel's plan?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-the-hostage-crisis-what-is-israels-plan-647686/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The development was also described positively by aid organisations. Mirjana Spoljaric, the president of&nbsp;International Committee of the Red Cross President said that the release of hostages&nbsp;provided a "sliver of hope" for the families of other hostages as Spoljaric called upon all sides in the conflict to show "a minimum of humanity".</p>

<h2><strong>Hostage crisis in Israel-Hamas war: What next?</strong></h2>

<p>In the immediate future, Qatar, which also hosts two top Hamas leaders, is expected to engage with both Israel and Hamas for the release of hostages. While Israel has called for the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages, a Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson said that their efforts are aimed to ensure "the release of all civilian hostages from every nationality, with the ultimate aim of de-escalating the&nbsp;current&nbsp;crisis and restoring peace".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asked by WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the IDF spokesperson&nbsp; Lt. Col. Peter Lerner said that the number of people held hostage by Hamas may well go above 203.</p>

<p>"The working assumption is that they're alive. And I would add that we expect Hamas to take care of their well being, they need to be released and be released now," Lerner told WION.<br />
<br />
"Prime Minister Netanyahu has demanded that the International Committee of the Red Cross have access to the hostages."<br />
<br />
"But I don't want to comment beyond that because I don't want to jeopardise them or the families of 203 people that are in despair and their life has been torn into pieces in the aftermath of this attack for the last 14 days," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Is aid into Gaza dependent on release of Israeli hostages?</strong></h2>

<p>Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a statement released on Wednesday evening, had indicated the interconnected nature of the three demands he put out to the US President Joe Biden during latter's wartime visit to Israel.</p>

<p>"First, I demanded the return of our captives, and we are working together for their return in every possible way,"&nbsp;Netanyahu said. "Second, until their return, we demand Red Cross visits for our captives. Third, we will not allow humanitarian assistance in the form of food and medicines from our territory to the Gaza Strip."</p>

<p>Netanyahu, however, had added that&nbsp;it would "not prevent humanitarian assistance from Egypt as long as it is only food, water and medicine for the civilian population located in the southern Gaza Strip." It had further added that such aid would be allowed "as long as these supplies do not reach Hamas. Any supplies that reach Hamas will be prevented."</p>

<p>At the time of filing this report, the impasse over supply of aid into Gaza, even through Egypt's Rafah crossing, has turned into a deadlock. This is even after a wartime visit to Israel by Joe Biden and his Secretary of State Antony Blinken's week-long West Asia trip had humanitarian access to Gaza as one of the top foreign policy objectives.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The visuals of two Israeli-American women being brought into Israel, nearly two weeks after they were taken hostage and were being held captive by Hamas, has stoked reactions of hope for more such releases.

The visuals of two Israeli-American women being brought into Israel, nearly two weeks after they were taken hostage and were being held captive by Hamas, has stoked reactions of hope for more such releases. So far, the total number of individuals held hostage by Hamas is numbered up to 203, with the final number likely to rise, according to Israel's Defense Forces (IDF). Judith Tai Raanan and her daughter Natalie Shoshana Raanan were back in Israel late Friday, the Israeli government said. The two women were at the Nahal Oz kibbutz, less than two kilometres from Gaza, when Hamas members broke through a border fence on 7 October, and slaughtered over 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and abducted more than 200 others to hold them hostage in Gaza. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza's Hamas says two US hostages released US President Joe Biden said he was "overjoyed" at the news of the release of hostages. While Hamas said that it was working with Qatar and Egypt to free its "civilian" hostages, a sign that more releases could follow. The photo released after Judith and Natalie Raanan finally made it to safety showed the two women looking exhausted and pale, a reflection of the appalling ordeal faced by the two. Also watch | Israel-Palestine War: The Hostage Crisis | What is Israel's plan? × The development was also described positively by aid organisations. Mirjana Spoljaric, the president of International Committee of the Red Cross President said that the release of hostages provided a "sliver of hope" for the families of other hostages as Spoljaric called upon all sides in the conflict to show "a minimum of humanity". Hostage crisis in Israel-Hamas war: What next? In the immediate future, Qatar, which also hosts two top Hamas leaders, is expected to engage with both Israel and Hamas for the release of hostages. While Israel has called for the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages, a Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson said that their efforts are aimed to ensure "the release of all civilian hostages from every nationality, with the ultimate aim of de-escalating the current crisis and restoring peace". Asked by WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the IDF spokesperson Lt. Col. Peter Lerner said that the number of people held hostage by Hamas may well go above 203. "The working assumption is that they're alive. And I would add that we expect Hamas to take care of their well being, they need to be released and be released now," Lerner told WION. "Prime Minister Netanyahu has demanded that the International Committee of the Red Cross have access to the hostages." "But I don't want to comment beyond that because I don't want to jeopardise them or the families of 203 people that are in despair and their life has been torn into pieces in the aftermath of this attack for the last 14 days," he added. Is aid into Gaza dependent on release of Israeli hostages? Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a statement released on Wednesday evening, had indicated the interconnected nature of the three demands he put out to the US President Joe Biden during latter's wartime visit to Israel. "First, I demanded the return of our captives, and we are working together for their return in every possible way," Netanyahu said. "Second, until their return, we demand Red Cross visits for our captives. Third, we will not allow humanitarian assistance in the form of food and medicines from our territory to the Gaza Strip." Netanyahu, however, had added that it would "not prevent humanitarian assistance from Egypt as long as it is only food, water and medicine for the civilian population located in the southern Gaza Strip." It had further added that such aid would be allowed "as long as these supplies do not reach Hamas. Any supplies that reach Hamas will be prevented." At the time of filing this report, the impasse over supply of aid into Gaza, even through Egypt's Rafah crossing, has turned into a deadlock. This is even after a wartime visit to Israel by Joe Biden and his Secretary of State Antony Blinken's week-long West Asia trip had humanitarian access to Gaza as one of the top foreign policy objectives. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: What lies beyond the 'sliver of hope' after release of two hostages by Hamas

<p>Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages out of the 200 captives it kidnapped following an unprecedented attack against Israel.</p>

<p>"In response to Qatari efforts, (Ezzedine) al-Qassam Brigades released two American citizens (a mother and her daughter) for humanitarian reasons," Hamas said in a statement posted on Telegram.</p>

<p>The militant group did not share details on how and when the hostages were released.</p>

<p>Earlier on Friday, the Israeli military said that most of the hostages abducted to Gaza were still alive.</p>

<p>"The majority of the hostages are alive. There were also dead bodies that were taken... to the Gaza Strip," an army statement said.</p>

<p>The army said that more than 20 hostages were minors, while between 10 and 20 were over the age of 60.</p>

<p>The Israeli military has carried out air raids on thousands of Hamas targets in Gaza, said the spokesman.</p>

<p>"They include quality targets such as drone facilities, they include naval facilities, they include command and control facilities, they include all of the rocket facilities," Lerner said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-asks-congress-for-105-bln-security-package-includes-funds-for-ukraine-and-israel-649351">Biden asks Congress for $105 bln package, including funds for Ukraine, Israel</a></p>

<p>"Our assessment suggests that at this time Hamas are in a state of disarray, they have no idea what the situation is above ground, they have escaped into the tunnels."</p>

<h2><strong>'Any help from New Delhi is welcome' for release of hostages, says Israel envoy to India</strong></h2>

<p>Israel's Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, while speaking to Indian Express, stated that Israel would welcome any help from India for the release of over 200 Israeli hostages, including several foreign nationals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further said that Israel was "moved that the first reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi came on the same afternoon, even before the full picture was out".</p>

<p>Gilon added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi again "expressed solidarity" after speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a few days later. He said, "Not just the Indian PM, we have got a show of support from all levels here — officials, ministers, civil society, and even people on social media."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages out of the 200 captives it kidnapped following an unprecedented attack against Israel.

Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages out of the 200 captives it kidnapped following an unprecedented attack against Israel. "In response to Qatari efforts, (Ezzedine) al-Qassam Brigades released two American citizens (a mother and her daughter) for humanitarian reasons," Hamas said in a statement posted on Telegram. The militant group did not share details on how and when the hostages were released. Earlier on Friday, the Israeli military said that most of the hostages abducted to Gaza were still alive. "The majority of the hostages are alive. There were also dead bodies that were taken... to the Gaza Strip," an army statement said. The army said that more than 20 hostages were minors, while between 10 and 20 were over the age of 60. The Israeli military has carried out air raids on thousands of Hamas targets in Gaza, said the spokesman. "They include quality targets such as drone facilities, they include naval facilities, they include command and control facilities, they include all of the rocket facilities," Lerner said. Also read: Biden asks Congress for $105 bln package, including funds for Ukraine, Israel "Our assessment suggests that at this time Hamas are in a state of disarray, they have no idea what the situation is above ground, they have escaped into the tunnels." 'Any help from New Delhi is welcome' for release of hostages, says Israel envoy to India Israel's Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, while speaking to Indian Express, stated that Israel would welcome any help from India for the release of over 200 Israeli hostages, including several foreign nationals. He further said that Israel was "moved that the first reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi came on the same afternoon, even before the full picture was out". Gilon added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi again "expressed solidarity" after speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a few days later. He said, "Not just the Indian PM, we have got a show of support from all levels here — officials, ministers, civil society, and even people on social media." (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hamas releases two American hostages from Gaza

<p>Tech heavyweights are boycotting Web Summit, Europe’s biggest technology event, after its CEO criticised Western support of Israel following deadly terrorist attacks by Hamas on October 7.</p>

<p>Intel and Siemens Thursday joined a growing list of companies and tech executives saying they won’t attend the event in solidarity with Israel. Intel said in a statement that it was “withdrawing from Web Summit.”</p>

<p>Siemens, which is a German engineering and manufacturing company, also echoed the same stance after having “reviewed the situation.”</p>

<p>So far, Y Combinator’s Garry Tan, Sequoia Capital’s Ravi Gupta and other prominent venture capitalists have also pulled out of the conference in support of Israel.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel boycotts the summit as well</strong></h2>

<p>Top leaders from Israel’s massive tech industry, which contributes to one-fifth of the country’s economic output, have also announced a boycott.</p>

<p>Ori Goshen, the co-founder and co-CEO of Tel Aviv-based AI21 Labs, took to LinkedIn to announce that he won’t “give the keynote” at the event because he “cannot be part of such indecency and moral bankruptcy.”</p>

<p>Dor Shapira, the ambassador of Israel to Portugal, wrote to the mayor of Lisbon informing him that Israel will not participate in the event, an update he shared on LinkedIn on Oct 16.</p>

<h2><strong>Controversial statement from Web Summit CEO</strong></h2>

<p>Nearly a week after the Oct 7 assault by Hamas on Israel, Web Summit CEO Paddy Cosgrave expressed “shock” at the support Israel was getting from the West. He also rapped the West for not denouncing the Jewish nation for its “war crimes.”</p>

<p>However, after he saw his summit being jeopardised, he seemed to be staging a balancing act on Oct 17 when he issued a detailed apology for his statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Hamas hostages' kin speaks to WION, shares agony</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-hamas-hostages-kin-speaks-to-wion-shares-agony-648865/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“I understand that what I said, the timing of what I said, and the way it has been presented has caused profound hurt to many. To anyone who was hurt by my words, I apologise deeply,” Cosgrave wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What is needed at this time is compassion, and I did not convey that. Web Summit has a long history of partnership with Israel and its tech firms, and I am deeply regretful that those friends were hurt by any of what I said,” his statement read further.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-joe-bidens-wartime-address-hails-india-middle-east-europe-corridor-649015"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Joe Biden`s wartime address hails India-Middle East-Europe corridor</strong></a></p>

<p>But it seems like damage has already been done.</p>

<p>The summit, a 70,000-person flagship event, will take place in Lisbon next month.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Tech heavyweights are boycotting Web Summit, Europe’s biggest technology event, after its CEO criticised Western support of Israel following deadly terrorist attacks by Hamas on October 7.

Tech heavyweights are boycotting Web Summit, Europe’s biggest technology event, after its CEO criticised Western support of Israel following deadly terrorist attacks by Hamas on October 7. Intel and Siemens Thursday joined a growing list of companies and tech executives saying they won’t attend the event in solidarity with Israel. Intel said in a statement that it was “withdrawing from Web Summit.” Siemens, which is a German engineering and manufacturing company, also echoed the same stance after having “reviewed the situation.” So far, Y Combinator’s Garry Tan, Sequoia Capital’s Ravi Gupta and other prominent venture capitalists have also pulled out of the conference in support of Israel. Israel boycotts the summit as well Top leaders from Israel’s massive tech industry, which contributes to one-fifth of the country’s economic output, have also announced a boycott. Ori Goshen, the co-founder and co-CEO of Tel Aviv-based AI21 Labs, took to LinkedIn to announce that he won’t “give the keynote” at the event because he “cannot be part of such indecency and moral bankruptcy.” Dor Shapira, the ambassador of Israel to Portugal, wrote to the mayor of Lisbon informing him that Israel will not participate in the event, an update he shared on LinkedIn on Oct 16. Controversial statement from Web Summit CEO Nearly a week after the Oct 7 assault by Hamas on Israel, Web Summit CEO Paddy Cosgrave expressed “shock” at the support Israel was getting from the West. He also rapped the West for not denouncing the Jewish nation for its “war crimes.” However, after he saw his summit being jeopardised, he seemed to be staging a balancing act on Oct 17 when he issued a detailed apology for his statement. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Hamas hostages' kin speaks to WION, shares agony × “I understand that what I said, the timing of what I said, and the way it has been presented has caused profound hurt to many. To anyone who was hurt by my words, I apologise deeply,” Cosgrave wrote. “What is needed at this time is compassion, and I did not convey that. Web Summit has a long history of partnership with Israel and its tech firms, and I am deeply regretful that those friends were hurt by any of what I said,” his statement read further. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Joe Biden`s wartime address hails India-Middle East-Europe corridor But it seems like damage has already been done. The summit, a 70,000-person flagship event, will take place in Lisbon next month. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Anti-Israel remarks by CEO put Web Summit 2023 in jeopardy as tech giants pull out

<p>Russia on Friday (Oct 20) advised its citizens against travelling to Israel, Lebanon, Jordan and Palestinian territories amid the intensifying conflict between Israel and Hamas. Russia's foreign ministry said, "The situation in the Middle East is heating up. The number of casualties and injuries is rising. Mass protests are taking place around the world."</p>

<p>"We strongly recommend that Russian citizens refrain from travelling to the region, especially to Israel, Lebanon, Jordan and the Palestinian territories," the ministry added.<br />
This development in Russia a day after Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that there was a serious possibility that the Israel-Hamas war would become regional.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-gaza-hospital-palestine-death-toll-yemen-netanyahu-latest-news-updates-648997"><strong>Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas war</strong></a></p>

<p>&nbsp;"A real mechanism (of de-escalation in the Middle East) could be a decision by the (UN) Security Council calling on all parties to immediately stop any violent military actions and ensure a solution to humanitarian problems, taking into account the true catastrophe that threatens the Gaza Strip and the millions of people living there," Foreign Minister Lavrov told reporters in North Korea's Pyongyang.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As for the Gaza Strip, the risk of this crisis escalating into a regional conflict is quite serious. I have already mentioned that the United States vetoed a resolution that called for a stop to any hostilities and to begin to resolve humanitarian issues," he added.</p>

<p>Lavrov also said that the US apparently showed that it was not ready for a truce, a ceasefire. "And if this is so, then they will probably believe the conflict may grow," the foreign minister further said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on October 7, scores of foreigners have been killed, wounded or taken hostage. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the Russian embassy in Israel said that Nineteen Russian-Israeli citizens have been confirmed dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two Russian-Israeli citizens are hostages and seven Russian nationals are missing, the embassy added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Russia on Friday (Oct 20) advised its citizens against travelling to Israel, Lebanon, Jordan and Palestinian territories amid the intensifying conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Russia on Friday (Oct 20) advised its citizens against travelling to Israel, Lebanon, Jordan and Palestinian territories amid the intensifying conflict between Israel and Hamas. Russia's foreign ministry said, "The situation in the Middle East is heating up. The number of casualties and injuries is rising. Mass protests are taking place around the world." "We strongly recommend that Russian citizens refrain from travelling to the region, especially to Israel, Lebanon, Jordan and the Palestinian territories," the ministry added. This development in Russia a day after Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that there was a serious possibility that the Israel-Hamas war would become regional. Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas war "A real mechanism (of de-escalation in the Middle East) could be a decision by the (UN) Security Council calling on all parties to immediately stop any violent military actions and ensure a solution to humanitarian problems, taking into account the true catastrophe that threatens the Gaza Strip and the millions of people living there," Foreign Minister Lavrov told reporters in North Korea's Pyongyang. "As for the Gaza Strip, the risk of this crisis escalating into a regional conflict is quite serious. I have already mentioned that the United States vetoed a resolution that called for a stop to any hostilities and to begin to resolve humanitarian issues," he added. Lavrov also said that the US apparently showed that it was not ready for a truce, a ceasefire. "And if this is so, then they will probably believe the conflict may grow," the foreign minister further said. Since Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on October 7, scores of foreigners have been killed, wounded or taken hostage. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the Russian embassy in Israel said that Nineteen Russian-Israeli citizens have been confirmed dead. Two Russian-Israeli citizens are hostages and seven Russian nationals are missing, the embassy added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: Russia advises citizens against travelling to Israel, 2 other countries

<p>An explosion was reported at a building on the premises of the Saint Porphyrius Greek Orthodox Church campus in Gaza City on Thursday (Oct 19) night. The church is one of the oldest in the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A person seeking refuge at the church told the Wall Street Journal that about 500 people were sheltering on the church campus, including 80 in the church council where the explosion reportedly occurred.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-israeli-airstrike-or-misfired-islamic-jihad-rocket-what-killed-hundreds-at-gaza-hospital-648159">Video: Israeli airstrike or 'misfired' Islamic Jihad rocket? What killed at least hundreds at Gaza hospital?</a></strong></p>

<p>The rescuers were reportedly pulling people out of the rubble, many of whom were critically injured.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Hamas-controlled interior ministry said that several displaced people who had taken shelter at a church compound were killed and injured after an Israeli strike late Thursday.</p>

<p>The Israeli military told media agencies that it was looking into the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: New details emerge on Gaza hospital blast | Gravitas</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-new-details-emerge-on-gaza-hospital-blast-gravitas-648946/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The strike left a "large number of martyrs and injured" at the compound of a Greek Orthodox church, the Hamas-controlled interior ministry said.</p>

<p>Witnesses cited by the AFP said that the strike appeared to have been aimed at a target close to the place of worship where many Gaza residents had taken refuge.</p>

<p><strong><em>(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.)</em></strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


An explosion was reported at a building on the premises of the Saint Porphyrius Greek Orthodox Church campus in Gaza City on Thursday (Oct 19) night. The church is one of the oldest in the world.

An explosion was reported at a building on the premises of the Saint Porphyrius Greek Orthodox Church campus in Gaza City on Thursday (Oct 19) night. The church is one of the oldest in the world. A person seeking refuge at the church told the Wall Street Journal that about 500 people were sheltering on the church campus, including 80 in the church council where the explosion reportedly occurred. Also read | Video: Israeli airstrike or 'misfired' Islamic Jihad rocket? What killed at least hundreds at Gaza hospital? The rescuers were reportedly pulling people out of the rubble, many of whom were critically injured. Meanwhile, the Hamas-controlled interior ministry said that several displaced people who had taken shelter at a church compound were killed and injured after an Israeli strike late Thursday. The Israeli military told media agencies that it was looking into the incident. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: New details emerge on Gaza hospital blast | Gravitas × The strike left a "large number of martyrs and injured" at the compound of a Greek Orthodox church, the Hamas-controlled interior ministry said. Witnesses cited by the AFP said that the strike appeared to have been aimed at a target close to the place of worship where many Gaza residents had taken refuge. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: Many feared dead after explosion rocks one of world's oldest churches in Gaza city

israel-hamas-war

Israel Hamas War, News on Israel Hamas War, stories on Israel Hamas War, articles on Israel Hamas War, Israel Hamas War stories at Wion, Israel Hamas War news, Israel Hamas War latest news

israel hamas-war

Israel-Hamas war: Joe Biden's wartime address hails India-Middle East-Europe corridor

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu blames security chiefs over Hamas attack, deletes post after uproar

IDF fighter jets eliminate Hamas' air chief Abu Rakaba in Gaza, confirms Israel

India abstains from UNGA vote on Jordan-led truce resolution that didn't mention Hamas

India abstains from vote on Jordan-led UNGA resolution that didn't mention Hamas

How Israel-Hamas war is impacting state of India-Middle East-Europe corridor

China outfoxing US in West Asia? Washington asks Beijing to pull Tehran away from Israel-Hamas war

Israelis descending upon gun stores in large numbers after Oct 7 attack

IDF says can’t guarantee safety as 29 journalists die in Israel-Hamas war

India urgently building border drone defence system to ward off Hamas-like attacks

Hamas delegation visits Moscow to discuss release of hostages

Iran’s elite Quds Force trained 500 Hamas terrorists before Oct 7 attack: Report

Hezbollah chief meets Hamas, Islamic Jihad leaders, says the Lebanese group

Hezbollah chief meets Hamas, Islamic Jihad leaders, says the Lebanese group

'Beheading, removing of hearts': Israel claims note found on Hamas man's body called to commit atrocities

Israel stops UN staff visas after Antonio Guterres is branded 'terror apologist' for his Hamas remarks

At UNSC, India vows continued humanitarian assistance for Palestinians

Israel-Hamas war: Ground invasion looming? Israel asks Google to disable live traffic maps in Gaza

Stranger Things star Noah Schnapp slams pro-Hamas supporters on social media

Israel vs Hamas: Soul-stirring survival story of a 9-day-old whose house was set on fire by terrorists

Biden’s 2024 campaign may take hit as Arab, Muslim Americans criticise US support to Israel

Israel considering flooding Hamas tunnels before ground invasion, claims famed scribe

Explained: Why is Israel putting Gaza's ground invasion on the back-burner?

Israel gives final warning: Leave or be treated as terrorists