<p>A court in the Netherlands has ordered the government not to deliver parts of F-35 fighter jets to Israel amid allegations of human rights violations in Gaza. A Dutch court on Monday (Feb 12) upheld that supplying the parts to Israel contributed to alleged violations by Israel in its war against Hamas. "The court orders the State to cease all actual export and transit of F-35 parts with final destination Israel within seven days after service of this judgement," said the ruling.</p>

<h2><strong>Why it matters?</strong></h2>

<p>It is to be noted that the F-35 parts are totally owned by US but stored in a warehouse in the Netherlands under bilateral agreements. The Dutch government thus plays a minimal role in the whole process and lacks control over it.</p>

<p>However, several rights groups were pressing the Dutch government to take steps to rein in the deliveries to Israel. "In doing so, the Netherlands is contributing to serious violations of humanitarian law of war in Gaza," the rights groups argue.</p>

<h2><strong>‘A political decision’ </strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, a local court in The Hague had ruled that the decision to deliver F-35 parts to Israel was totally political and judges should not interfere.</p>

<p>"The considerations that the minister makes are to a large extent of a political and policy nature and judges should leave the minister a large amount of freedom," the court ruled at the time.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel protesters call for early polls, thinks Gantz most suitable PM candidate</strong></p>

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<p>Even the government also argued in the court that if the Netherlands stopped delivery of F-35 parts, the Jewish nation could procure them from anywhere else very easily.</p>

<h2><strong>Allegations against Israel</strong></h2>

<p>Several human rights groups have claimed that Israel is committing grave violations in the name of retaliation to the Oct 7 Hamas attacks in the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>Above 28,000 people have died in the tiny enclave, mostly women and children.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0SQlnEWmdL2dNGveEiWDkT" data-ved="2ahUKEwiDxJimiaaEAxXHyzgGHbelCnAQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/israel-economy-poised-for-recovery-despite-moodys-downgrade-says-bank-of-israel-governor-689496" jsname="YKoRaf">Israel economy poised for recovery despite Moody`s downgrade, says bank of Israel Governor</a></strong></p>

<p>The International Court of Justice in The Hague, which rules on disputes between states, has said Israel must do everything possible to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza.</p>

<p>That ruling "strengthens our confidence in a positive ruling in our case", said PAX Netherlands, one of the rights groups involved in the appeal.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A court in the Netherlands has ordered the government not to deliver parts of F-35 fighter jets to Israel amid allegations of human rights violations in Gaza. A Dutch court on Monday (Feb 12) upheld that supplying the parts to Israel contributed to alleged violations by Israel in its war against Hamas.

A court in the Netherlands has ordered the government not to deliver parts of F-35 fighter jets to Israel amid allegations of human rights violations in Gaza. A Dutch court on Monday (Feb 12) upheld that supplying the parts to Israel contributed to alleged violations by Israel in its war against Hamas. "The court orders the State to cease all actual export and transit of F-35 parts with final destination Israel within seven days after service of this judgement," said the ruling. Why it matters? It is to be noted that the F-35 parts are totally owned by US but stored in a warehouse in the Netherlands under bilateral agreements. The Dutch government thus plays a minimal role in the whole process and lacks control over it. However, several rights groups were pressing the Dutch government to take steps to rein in the deliveries to Israel. "In doing so, the Netherlands is contributing to serious violations of humanitarian law of war in Gaza," the rights groups argue. ‘A political decision’ Earlier, a local court in The Hague had ruled that the decision to deliver F-35 parts to Israel was totally political and judges should not interfere. "The considerations that the minister makes are to a large extent of a political and policy nature and judges should leave the minister a large amount of freedom," the court ruled at the time. Watch: Israel protesters call for early polls, thinks Gantz most suitable PM candidate × Even the government also argued in the court that if the Netherlands stopped delivery of F-35 parts, the Jewish nation could procure them from anywhere else very easily. Allegations against Israel Several human rights groups have claimed that Israel is committing grave violations in the name of retaliation to the Oct 7 Hamas attacks in the Gaza Strip. Above 28,000 people have died in the tiny enclave, mostly women and children. Also read: Israel economy poised for recovery despite Moody`s downgrade, says bank of Israel Governor The International Court of Justice in The Hague, which rules on disputes between states, has said Israel must do everything possible to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza. That ruling "strengthens our confidence in a positive ruling in our case", said PAX Netherlands, one of the rights groups involved in the appeal. (With inputs from agencies)

Court orders Dutch govt to stop delivery of F-35 jet parts to Israel over human rights

<p>Israeli forces exposed a complex tunnel network, stretching hundreds of meters and partially located under the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) headquarters in Gaza. The military alleges that this discovery provides new evidence of Hamas exploiting the UN relief agency's infrastructure for Palestinians.</p>

<p>Amid a crisis for UNRWA, which faces funding freezes from several donor countries, the Israeli army took reporters from foreign news outlets on a guided tour of the passages. The agency is under internal investigation following Israel's claims that some of its staff doubled as Hamas operatives.</p>

<h2><strong>What does Hamas tunnel under UN agency's headquarter look like?</strong></h2>

<p>The tunnel, measuring 700 meters in length and 18 meters deep, was explored by journalists in a closely escorted trip. Reporters descended into the concrete-lined passage from a shaft near a school on the outskirts of the UN compound. The tour revealed side-rooms, including an office space with emptied steel safes, a tiled toilet, a chamber with computer servers, and another filled with industrial battery stacks.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-threatens-catastrophe-if-israel-strikes-rafah-688986">Saudi Arabia threatens ‘catastrophe’ if Israel strikes Rafah; Gaza death toll crosses 28,000</a></strong></p>

<p>An army lieutenant-colonel leading the tour said that the tunnel was used as a central command for Hamas intelligence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"UNRWA ... does not have the military and security expertise nor the capacity to undertake military inspections of what is or might be under its premises," said the lieutenant-colonel.</p>

<p>"In the past, whenever (a) suspicious cavity was found close to or under UNRWA premises, protest letters were promptly filed to parties to the conflict, including both the de facto authorities in Gaza (Hamas) and the Israeli authorities," he added.</p>

<p>Speaking further he said, the underground facility played a key role in directing combat activities.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">These findings were found within <a href="https://twitter.com/UNRWA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNRWA</a> facilities:<br />
<br />
Acting on ISA intelligence, the forces discovered a tunnel shaft near an UNRWA school, leading to an underground terrorist tunnel beneath UNRWA's main headquarters. The forces found electrical infrastructure inside the tunnel… <a href="https://t.co/n5EWJpyI4o">pic.twitter.com/n5EWJpyI4o</a></p>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1756378191415951666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>UNRWA, employing 13,000 people in Gaza and providing crucial aid and services, countered the Israeli findings. The agency claimed to have vacated the headquarters on October 12, shortly after the war began, and expressed its inability to confirm or comment on the military's discovery.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | US suspends funding to UNRWA</strong></p>

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<p>UNRWA supporters argue its crucial role in aiding Palestinians, while Israel contends the agency is influenced by Hamas and calls for its replacement.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The tunnel's location under the UNRWA headquarters raises questions about the organisation's involvement, with Israel asserting that Hamas operates within civilian facilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lack of cellphone reception in the tunnel made geolocation impossible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Journalists were required to deposit personal items in a bucket, lowered into a vertical hole on the headquarters' grounds, before embarking on the tunnel tour. The Israeli military imposed restrictions on capturing military intelligence, maps, or specific equipment during the trip, underlining the sensitivity of the situation.</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>


Israeli forces exposed a complex tunnel network, stretching hundreds of meters and partially located under the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) headquarters in Gaza.

Israeli forces exposed a complex tunnel network, stretching hundreds of meters and partially located under the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) headquarters in Gaza. The military alleges that this discovery provides new evidence of Hamas exploiting the UN relief agency's infrastructure for Palestinians. Amid a crisis for UNRWA, which faces funding freezes from several donor countries, the Israeli army took reporters from foreign news outlets on a guided tour of the passages. The agency is under internal investigation following Israel's claims that some of its staff doubled as Hamas operatives. What does Hamas tunnel under UN agency's headquarter look like? The tunnel, measuring 700 meters in length and 18 meters deep, was explored by journalists in a closely escorted trip. Reporters descended into the concrete-lined passage from a shaft near a school on the outskirts of the UN compound. The tour revealed side-rooms, including an office space with emptied steel safes, a tiled toilet, a chamber with computer servers, and another filled with industrial battery stacks. Also read | Saudi Arabia threatens ‘catastrophe’ if Israel strikes Rafah; Gaza death toll crosses 28,000 An army lieutenant-colonel leading the tour said that the tunnel was used as a central command for Hamas intelligence. "UNRWA ... does not have the military and security expertise nor the capacity to undertake military inspections of what is or might be under its premises," said the lieutenant-colonel. "In the past, whenever (a) suspicious cavity was found close to or under UNRWA premises, protest letters were promptly filed to parties to the conflict, including both the de facto authorities in Gaza (Hamas) and the Israeli authorities," he added. Speaking further he said, the underground facility played a key role in directing combat activities. These findings were found within @UNRWA facilities: Acting on ISA intelligence, the forces discovered a tunnel shaft near an UNRWA school, leading to an underground terrorist tunnel beneath UNRWA's main headquarters. The forces found electrical infrastructure inside the tunnel… pic.twitter.com/n5EWJpyI4o — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) February 10, 2024 × UNRWA, employing 13,000 people in Gaza and providing crucial aid and services, countered the Israeli findings. The agency claimed to have vacated the headquarters on October 12, shortly after the war began, and expressed its inability to confirm or comment on the military's discovery. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war | US suspends funding to UNRWA × UNRWA supporters argue its crucial role in aiding Palestinians, while Israel contends the agency is influenced by Hamas and calls for its replacement. What does it mean? The tunnel's location under the UNRWA headquarters raises questions about the organisation's involvement, with Israel asserting that Hamas operates within civilian facilities. The lack of cellphone reception in the tunnel made geolocation impossible. Journalists were required to deposit personal items in a bucket, lowered into a vertical hole on the headquarters' grounds, before embarking on the tunnel tour. The Israeli military imposed restrictions on capturing military intelligence, maps, or specific equipment during the trip, underlining the sensitivity of the situation. (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.

Video: Israel shows what it claims as Hamas tunnel network below UN agency's Gaza headquarters

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed Hamas's proposals for a ceasefire. Netanyahu ordered troops to prepare for moving onto the city of Rafah in Gaza's far south where more than 1 million Palestinians have sought Refuge. However, the US Secretary of State Blinken says he still sees space for an agreement to be reached.

Israel-Hamas War: Blinken pushes for ceasefire as Netanyahu rejects Hamas proposal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (February 7) rejected a proposal for a Gaza war truce by Hamas, saying victory was within reach and only total defeat of the movement that rules the blockaded strip would ensure Israel's security.

Blinken sees scope for progress even after Netanyahu rejects Hamas ceasefire proposal

The IDF uncovers a significant Hamas tunnel in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, that was once utilized by senior terrorists before being transformed into a facility for harboring hostages. The IDF claims that the "strategic" underground network was around a kilometer long. Troops from the 98th Division's elite Yahalom combat engineering unit, along with other special forces, raided it.

Israel-hamas war: IDF reveals tunnel in Khan Younis used by top Hamas brass

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday rejected Hamas' latest offer for a ceasefire and return of hostages held in the Gaza Strip, but U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said there was still room for negotiation toward an agreement.

Israel-hamas war: Netanyahu calls Hamas ceasefire proposal 'delusional'

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli PM Netanyahu rejects Hamas' offer of ceasefire

An American air strike in Iraq on Wednesday killed a senior commander from a pro-Iran armed group who was involved in attacks on Washington's troops in the region, the US military said.

US airstrikes Iraq: Iran says airstrikes by US violate Iraqi and Syrian sovereignty

<p>Saudi Arabia told the United States that it can't have any relations with Israel in the absence of recognition of the Palestinian state, a report published by the news agency Reuters said on Wednesday (Feb 7).&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, a statement released by a ministry said that Riyadh repeated its request for permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to acknowledge a Palestinian state on the 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement read, "Kingdom has communicated its firm position to the US administration that there will be no diplomatic relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is recognised on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-war-hamas-proposes-a-four-month-gaza-truce-plan-says-report-687870">Israel war: Hamas proposes a four-month Gaza truce plan, says report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Riyadh reiterated "its call to the permanent members of the UN security council that have not yet recognised the Palestinian state, to expedite the recognition of the Palestinian state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital".&nbsp;</p>

<p>This statement comes after comments by White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, who told reporters on Tuesday that talks on Saudi-Israeli normalisation were "ongoing".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kirby also said that Washington had "received positive feedback from both sides that they're willing to continue to have those discussions".&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes amid, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned visit to Saudi Arabia this week. He also stopped in Egypt, Qatar and then Israel. US President Joe Biden's administration has been pressing Saudi Arabia to recognise Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-houthi-rebels-target-two-more-vessels-in-red-sea-including-one-carrying-coal-to-india-687759">Middle East crisis: Houthi rebels target two more vessels in Red Sea, including one carrying coal to India</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Blinken is aiming to finalise a truce deal to limit the escalation happening due to the Israel-Hamas war, which started after the October 7 attacks by Hamas militants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before the Israel-Hamas war, Riyadh had even set out criteria, including security guarantees from Washington and assistance in constructing a civilian nuclear programme. But all the progress appears to have gone in vain.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Israeli claims of UNRWA culpability remain unsubstantiated</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>October 7 attack</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Hamas militants launched an unprecedented cross-border attack on Israel, killing about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, claim Israeli authorities. Hamas had also taken some 250 people as hostages, some of them were later returned as part of a deal in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the attack, Israel responded with several strikes on Gaza and has continued its offensive since then killing at least 27,708 people as of February 6, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Saudi Arabia told the United States that it can't have any relations with Israel in the absence of recognition of the Palestinian state, a report published by the news agency Reuters said on Wednesday (Feb 7).

Saudi Arabia told the United States that it can't have any relations with Israel in the absence of recognition of the Palestinian state, a report published by the news agency Reuters said on Wednesday (Feb 7). As quoted, a statement released by a ministry said that Riyadh repeated its request for permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to acknowledge a Palestinian state on the 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The statement read, "Kingdom has communicated its firm position to the US administration that there will be no diplomatic relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is recognised on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital." Also read: Israel war: Hamas proposes a four-month Gaza truce plan, says report Riyadh reiterated "its call to the permanent members of the UN security council that have not yet recognised the Palestinian state, to expedite the recognition of the Palestinian state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital". This statement comes after comments by White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, who told reporters on Tuesday that talks on Saudi-Israeli normalisation were "ongoing". Kirby also said that Washington had "received positive feedback from both sides that they're willing to continue to have those discussions". This comes amid, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned visit to Saudi Arabia this week. He also stopped in Egypt, Qatar and then Israel. US President Joe Biden's administration has been pressing Saudi Arabia to recognise Israel. Also read: Middle East crisis: Houthi rebels target two more vessels in Red Sea, including one carrying coal to India Blinken is aiming to finalise a truce deal to limit the escalation happening due to the Israel-Hamas war, which started after the October 7 attacks by Hamas militants. Before the Israel-Hamas war, Riyadh had even set out criteria, including security guarantees from Washington and assistance in constructing a civilian nuclear programme. But all the progress appears to have gone in vain. Watch: Israeli claims of UNRWA culpability remain unsubstantiated × October 7 attack Hamas militants launched an unprecedented cross-border attack on Israel, killing about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, claim Israeli authorities. Hamas had also taken some 250 people as hostages, some of them were later returned as part of a deal in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. After the attack, Israel responded with several strikes on Gaza and has continued its offensive since then killing at least 27,708 people as of February 6, according to the Hamas-run territory's 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia says no ties with Israel until Palestinian state is 'recognised'

<p>Palestinian militant group Hamas has put forth a four-month (135 days) ceasefire plan aimed at ending the ongoing war between its fighters and Israel, reported Reuters. The plan reportedly proposes freeing of all hostages, withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip. Qatar and Egypt, who have been mediating between the warring sides had sent an offer last week. The response from Hamas is a counterproposal. There is a considerable diplomatic push from different parts of the world, including from the United States for an extended halt and even end to the ongoing war.</p>

<p>Israel did not immediately respond publicly to the fresh proposal and it has been maintaining that it will not be withdrawing its troops till Hamas is wiped out.</p>

<h2><strong>What is in Hamas' ceasefire proposal?</strong></h2>

<p>As reported by Reuters, Hamas has proposed a truce in three phases. Each phase would last for 45 days. the group has reportedly agreed to free remaining Israeli hostages but in exchange for Palestinian prisoners currently in Israel's custody.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Houthis launch multiple anti-ship ballistic missile attacks in Red Sea &amp; Gulf of Aden</strong></p>

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<p>Hamas says that after exchange of prisoners and hostages, reconstruction of Gaza would begin as Israeli forces withdraw from the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>It has been reported that although Hamas is not demanding guarantee of a permanent ceasefire, it has said that end of the war should be agreed upon before release of hostages.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-houthi-rebels-target-two-more-vessels-in-red-sea-including-one-carrying-coal-to-india-687759">Middle East crisis: Houthi rebels target two more vessels in Red Sea, including one carrying coal to India</a></strong></p>

<p>Hamas has proposed that the first phase will see both sides would release women, children under the age of 19 and elderly from its custody.</p>

<p>The second phase would see release of all remaining male hostages.</p>

<p>In third phase, bodies and remains will be exchanged.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-gaza-war-blinken-reviewing-hamas-over-the-top-response-to-proposed-gaza-deal-687674">Israel-Gaza war: Biden terms Hamas' response to proposed truce deal ‘a little over the top’</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>US deploys big guns</strong></h2>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is already in Israel after meeting Qatari and Egyptian mediators. The US President Joe Biden said on Monday (February 6) that Hamas' response to initial proposal made by Israel, US, Qatar and Egypt <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-gaza-war-blinken-reviewing-hamas-over-the-top-response-to-proposed-gaza-deal-687674">was a little 'over the top'</a>. He however did not specificaly refer to any particular proposal.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Palestinian militant group Hamas has put forth a four-month (135 days) ceasefire plan aimed at ending the ongoing war between its fighters and Israel, reported Reuters.

Palestinian militant group Hamas has put forth a four-month (135 days) ceasefire plan aimed at ending the ongoing war between its fighters and Israel, reported Reuters. The plan reportedly proposes freeing of all hostages, withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip. Qatar and Egypt, who have been mediating between the warring sides had sent an offer last week. The response from Hamas is a counterproposal. There is a considerable diplomatic push from different parts of the world, including from the United States for an extended halt and even end to the ongoing war. Israel did not immediately respond publicly to the fresh proposal and it has been maintaining that it will not be withdrawing its troops till Hamas is wiped out. What is in Hamas' ceasefire proposal? As reported by Reuters, Hamas has proposed a truce in three phases. Each phase would last for 45 days. the group has reportedly agreed to free remaining Israeli hostages but in exchange for Palestinian prisoners currently in Israel's custody. Watch | Houthis launch multiple anti-ship ballistic missile attacks in Red Sea & Gulf of Aden × Hamas says that after exchange of prisoners and hostages, reconstruction of Gaza would begin as Israeli forces withdraw from the Gaza Strip. It has been reported that although Hamas is not demanding guarantee of a permanent ceasefire, it has said that end of the war should be agreed upon before release of hostages. Also Read | Middle East crisis: Houthi rebels target two more vessels in Red Sea, including one carrying coal to India Hamas has proposed that the first phase will see both sides would release women, children under the age of 19 and elderly from its custody. The second phase would see release of all remaining male hostages. In third phase, bodies and remains will be exchanged. Also Read | Israel-Gaza war: Biden terms Hamas' response to proposed truce deal ‘a little over the top’ US deploys big guns US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is already in Israel after meeting Qatari and Egyptian mediators. The US President Joe Biden said on Monday (February 6) that Hamas' response to initial proposal made by Israel, US, Qatar and Egypt was a little 'over the top'. He however did not specificaly refer to any particular proposal. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel war: Hamas proposes a four-month Gaza truce plan, says report

<p>Iran&nbsp;said Monday it "will not hesitate" to respond in the event of US attacks on its territory after the White House declined to say whether strikes on&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;were ruled out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said Sunday the US will press on with its retaliation against&nbsp;Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asked whether the United States would rule out the possibility of striking&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;directly, Sullivan told NBC, "it would not be wise for me to talk about what we're ruling in and ruling out."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If (Iran) chose to respond directly to the United States, they would be met with a swift and forceful response from us," he said.</p>

<p>Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani hit back on Monday, saying: "The Islamic Republic has shown that it has always reacted decisively to any threat to its security, territorial integrity and sovereignty."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iran&nbsp;"will not hesitate to use its capabilities" to respond to any attacks on its soil, said Kanani during his weekly press briefing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He nonetheless reiterated that&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;"does not seek to aggravate tensions and crises in the region".</p>

<p>Regional tensions have soared since the October 7 outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, drawing in&nbsp;Iran-backed groups in Iraq, Syria, Yemen and Lebanon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US military said it carried out airstrikes against five missiles in Yemen on Sunday.</p>

<p>The strikes came a day after US and UK forces launched a wave of air raids against Yemen's&nbsp;Iran-backed Huthis -- their third round of joint military action in response to the rebels' persistent attacks on shipping.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Huthis say their attacks in the Red Sea are in solidarity with Palestinians in war-battered Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US military struck targets in Syria and Iraq overnight on Friday to Saturday, in retaliation for a January 28 drone attack on a base in Jordan that killed three US soldiers.</p>

<p>The Islamic republic condemned the strikes in Yemen, Syria and Iraq. &nbsp;</p>

<p>President Joe Biden has blamed "radical&nbsp;Iran-backed militant groups" for the attack in Jordan, but said the United States does not seek a wider conflict in the Middle East.</p>


Iran said Monday it "will not hesitate" to respond in the event of US attacks on its territory after the White House declined to say whether strikes on Iran were ruled out.

Iran said Monday it "will not hesitate" to respond in the event of US attacks on its territory after the White House declined to say whether strikes on Iran were ruled out. White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said Sunday the US will press on with its retaliation against Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria. Asked whether the United States would rule out the possibility of striking Iran directly, Sullivan told NBC, "it would not be wise for me to talk about what we're ruling in and ruling out." "If (Iran) chose to respond directly to the United States, they would be met with a swift and forceful response from us," he said. Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani hit back on Monday, saying: "The Islamic Republic has shown that it has always reacted decisively to any threat to its security, territorial integrity and sovereignty." Iran "will not hesitate to use its capabilities" to respond to any attacks on its soil, said Kanani during his weekly press briefing. He nonetheless reiterated that Iran "does not seek to aggravate tensions and crises in the region". Regional tensions have soared since the October 7 outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, drawing in Iran-backed groups in Iraq, Syria, Yemen and Lebanon. The US military said it carried out airstrikes against five missiles in Yemen on Sunday. The strikes came a day after US and UK forces launched a wave of air raids against Yemen's Iran-backed Huthis -- their third round of joint military action in response to the rebels' persistent attacks on shipping. The Huthis say their attacks in the Red Sea are in solidarity with Palestinians in war-battered Gaza. The US military struck targets in Syria and Iraq overnight on Friday to Saturday, in retaliation for a January 28 drone attack on a base in Jordan that killed three US soldiers. The Islamic republic condemned the strikes in Yemen, Syria and Iraq. President Joe Biden has blamed "radical Iran-backed militant groups" for the attack in Jordan, but said the United States does not seek a wider conflict in the Middle East.

Iran says 'will not hesitate' to respond to US attack on its territory

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Saudi Arabia on Monday, his first stop in a Middle East tour as Washington tries to advance negotiations on a normalization deal between the kingdom and Israel, and make progress on talks for postwar Gaza governance.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets Saudi Arabia MBS

<p>As Israel continues its&nbsp;war against the Hamas militant group in Gaza, the US House panel&nbsp;recommended allocating $17.6 billion in new military assistance to the Jewish nation on Sunday (Feb 4).&nbsp;The billions of dollars in aid will help replenish&nbsp;Israel's missile defence systems, manufacturing artillery and other munitions, and acquiring advanced weapons systems.</p>

<p>Some of these funds will also be used to restock US arms provided to Israel in the wake of the deadly October 7 Hamas attack, which resulted in the killings of over a thousand&nbsp;Israelis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to US House Speaker Mike Johnson, the funding bill, presented by the House Appropriations panel, is likely to undergo a vote in the full House next week. Under a 10-year plan initiated in 2016, Israel currently gets an annual $3.8 billion in US military assistance.</p>

<p>Last November, months after the deadly attack by Hamas on Israeli soil, the House passed a Republican plan to provide $14.3 billion in aid to Israel by cutting the funds to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-carry-out-joint-air-raids-against-houthi-targets-in-yemen-hit-36-sites-686775">US, UK carry out joint air raids against Houthi targets in Yemen, hit 36 sites</a></p>

<p>However, the Democratic-controlled Senate blocked the bill at the time. Now the new bill, as per Reuters, will provide aid to Israel and additional military assistance to Ukraine. Moreover, the Senate is also considering incorporating aid to Taiwan as part of its comprehensive legislation.</p>

<p>The upcoming Senate bill is also expected to encompass proposals to tackle the issue of US-Mexico border security, which is closely tied to immigration concerns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-50-hezbollah-targets-hit-in-syria-since-oct-7-says-israel-686772">Over 50 Hezbollah targets hit in Syria since Oct 7, says Israel</a></p>

<p>Notably, the US-Mexico border has long been a focal point of election discussions, with a range of issues. This also holds importance in light of the upcoming presidential elections in the United States. The debate on the comprehensive bill will commence next week, with an initial procedural vote scheduled for no later than Wednesday, as per Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/over-40-killed-as-us-unleashes-airstrikes-on-iranian-proxies-in-iraq-syria-686763">Over 40 killed as US unleashes airstrikes on Iranian proxies in Iraq &amp; Syria</a></strong></p>

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<p>Speaker Mike Johnson emphasising upon&nbsp;the urgency of lending support to Israel said,&nbsp;"The need to support our closest ally and our own forces in the region has never been more pressing."</p>

<p>The House and Senate must pass the bill in order for US to provide aid to Israel and Ukraine. The bill will then be sent to US President Joe Biden for final approval.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><br />
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As Israel continues its war against the Hamas militant group in Gaza, the US House panel recommended allocating $17.6 billion in new military assistance to the Jewish nation on Sunday (Feb 4).

As Israel continues its war against the Hamas militant group in Gaza, the US House panel recommended allocating $17.6 billion in new military assistance to the Jewish nation on Sunday (Feb 4). The billions of dollars in aid will help replenish Israel's missile defence systems, manufacturing artillery and other munitions, and acquiring advanced weapons systems. Some of these funds will also be used to restock US arms provided to Israel in the wake of the deadly October 7 Hamas attack, which resulted in the killings of over a thousand Israelis. According to US House Speaker Mike Johnson, the funding bill, presented by the House Appropriations panel, is likely to undergo a vote in the full House next week. Under a 10-year plan initiated in 2016, Israel currently gets an annual $3.8 billion in US military assistance. Last November, months after the deadly attack by Hamas on Israeli soil, the House passed a Republican plan to provide $14.3 billion in aid to Israel by cutting the funds to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Also Read | US, UK carry out joint air raids against Houthi targets in Yemen, hit 36 sites However, the Democratic-controlled Senate blocked the bill at the time. Now the new bill, as per Reuters, will provide aid to Israel and additional military assistance to Ukraine. Moreover, the Senate is also considering incorporating aid to Taiwan as part of its comprehensive legislation. The upcoming Senate bill is also expected to encompass proposals to tackle the issue of US-Mexico border security, which is closely tied to immigration concerns. Also Read | Over 50 Hezbollah targets hit in Syria since Oct 7, says Israel Notably, the US-Mexico border has long been a focal point of election discussions, with a range of issues. This also holds importance in light of the upcoming presidential elections in the United States. The debate on the comprehensive bill will commence next week, with an initial procedural vote scheduled for no later than Wednesday, as per Reuters. Watch | Over 40 killed as US unleashes airstrikes on Iranian proxies in Iraq & Syria × Speaker Mike Johnson emphasising upon the urgency of lending support to Israel said, "The need to support our closest ally and our own forces in the region has never been more pressing." The House and Senate must pass the bill in order for US to provide aid to Israel and Ukraine. The bill will then be sent to US President Joe Biden for final approval. (With inputs from agencies)

US House proposes $17.6 billion in military aid to Israel amid war with Hamas

The US says it needs to see "fundamental changes" before it resumes funding to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees. Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), a US territory in the Pacific, is the only place in the United States where Chinese nationals can enter without a visa for up to 14 days.

Israel-Hamas war | US suspends funding to UNRWA

<p>Indian foreign ministry said Thursday (Feb 1) that it was extending financial assistance to Palestine both bilaterally and through the United Nations but warned that it had zero tolerance for terrorism. The statement comes as Israel has accused officials of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestine Refugees of being involved in the Oct 7 attacks by Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Deeply concerned over the allegations, welcome UN investigation..." MEA Spox on allegations of UNRWA personnel linked to Oct 7 Israel terror attack <a href="https://t.co/ceMp75Tvqq">pic.twitter.com/ceMp75Tvqq</a></p>
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<p>"On UNRWA, India is an important development partner of Palestine, and we have been extending assistance to them both bilaterally and through the United Nations. but at the same time, we have a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism, and in this regard, we are deeply concerned at the allegations that the UNRWA staff were involved in the October 7 terror attacks," Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel’s allegations against UNRWA</strong></h2>

<p>As per Israeli account, several UNRWA officials were involved in carrying out the deadly Oct 7 attacks, including kidnapping Israeli citizens and setting up an operation room. Following these allegations, several nations, including the US, have suspended their aid programmes for the UNRWA.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw3Y_EUVk2IZbqv0wzJqzRDu" data-ved="2ahUKEwi10JDKs4qEAxU0xDgGHe7_Dgw4ChDF9AEoAHoECBsQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-rejects-reports-of-gaza-truce-ruled-out-freeing-thousands-of-terrorists-685279" jsname="YKoRaf">Netanyahu rejects reports of Gaza truce, rules out freeing `thousands of terrorists`</a></strong></p>

<p>The UN has now launched an investigation into the matter, a move welcomed by India. "We also welcome investigations launched by the United Nations in this regard," the MEA spokesperson added.</p>

<p>According to CNN, the UN has already suspended nine of the 12 UNRWA officials suspected of carrying out Oct 7 attacks on Israeli soil.</p>

<h2><strong>India ‘takes note’ of ICJ ruling</strong></h2>

<p>Indian foreign ministry also took note of the ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) released last Friday (Jan 26) which directed Israel to prevent “acts of genocide” in Gaza.</p>

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<p>However, the order stopped short of ordering an end to the military offensive that has laid waste to the Palestinian enclave.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israeli PM Netanyahu says UNRWA is 'totally infiltered by Hamas'</strong></p>

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<p>“We have taken note of the provisional measures that the ICJ has given verdict on,” said spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. It has to be noted that Jaiswal&nbsp;neither welcomed nor condemned the ruling.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian foreign ministry said Thursday (Feb 1) that it was extending financial assistance to Palestine both bilaterally and through the United Nations but warned that it had zero tolerance for terrorism.

Indian foreign ministry said Thursday (Feb 1) that it was extending financial assistance to Palestine both bilaterally and through the United Nations but warned that it had zero tolerance for terrorism. The statement comes as Israel has accused officials of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestine Refugees of being involved in the Oct 7 attacks by Hamas. "Deeply concerned over the allegations, welcome UN investigation..." MEA Spox on allegations of UNRWA personnel linked to Oct 7 Israel terror attack pic.twitter.com/ceMp75Tvqq — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) February 1, 2024 × "On UNRWA, India is an important development partner of Palestine, and we have been extending assistance to them both bilaterally and through the United Nations. but at the same time, we have a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism, and in this regard, we are deeply concerned at the allegations that the UNRWA staff were involved in the October 7 terror attacks," Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. Israel’s allegations against UNRWA As per Israeli account, several UNRWA officials were involved in carrying out the deadly Oct 7 attacks, including kidnapping Israeli citizens and setting up an operation room. Following these allegations, several nations, including the US, have suspended their aid programmes for the UNRWA. Also read: Netanyahu rejects reports of Gaza truce, rules out freeing `thousands of terrorists` The UN has now launched an investigation into the matter, a move welcomed by India. "We also welcome investigations launched by the United Nations in this regard," the MEA spokesperson added. According to CNN, the UN has already suspended nine of the 12 UNRWA officials suspected of carrying out Oct 7 attacks on Israeli soil. India ‘takes note’ of ICJ ruling Indian foreign ministry also took note of the ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) released last Friday (Jan 26) which directed Israel to prevent “acts of genocide” in Gaza. "Taken note..." MEA Spox on ICJ orders on Israel, Palestine case pic.twitter.com/8Y0xB697DC — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) February 1, 2024 × However, the order stopped short of ordering an end to the military offensive that has laid waste to the Palestinian enclave. Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu says UNRWA is 'totally infiltered by Hamas' × “We have taken note of the provisional measures that the ICJ has given verdict on,” said spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. It has to be noted that Jaiswal neither welcomed nor condemned the ruling. (With inputs from agencies)

India ‘concerned’ over alleged involvement of UN workers in Oct 7 attacks, takes note of ICJ ruling

<p>The tensions in West Asia continue to run high after three US troops were killed in Jordan, marking the first American fatalities since the region went into turmoil following the October 7 attack by Palestinian militant group Hamas and the consequent Israeli bombardment of Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But now, in a bid to tone down the tensions, the Iran-aligned Iraqi armed group Kataib Hezbollah announced the suspension of all its military operations&nbsp;on Tuesday (Jan 30).</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Widening West Asia crisis: Three US soldiers killed in drone attack on US bases in Jordan</strong></p>

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<p>"As we announce the suspension of military and security operations against the occupation forces - in order to prevent embarrassment of the Iraqi government - we will continue to defend our people in Gaza in other ways," Kataib Hezbollah Secretary-General Abu Hussein al-Hamidawi said in a statement.</p>

<p>The Pentagon claimed that the attack on the US base near the Jordan-Syria border bore the "footprints" of Kataib Hezbollah despite the absence of a final assessment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US has vowed to attack the entities responsible for the attack on its base.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-vows-action-after-jordan-attack-releases-names-of-3-us-soldiers--684938">Pentagon vows action after Jordan attack, releases names of 3 soldiers killed as Iran denies involvement</a></strong></p>

<p>Founded in 2007, Kataib Hezbollah seeks to establish an Iran-aligned government in Iraq, expel US and coalition forces from the country, and advance Iranian interests throughout West Asia.&nbsp; The US State Department designated the group as a foreign terrorist organisation in July 2009.</p>

<p>Kataib Hezbollah’s overall leader, Ahmad al-Hamidawi, was named a Specially Designated Global Terrorist in February 2020.</p>

<p>The group has&nbsp;claimed dozens of attacks on the US forces in Iraq and Syria since the beginning of the war in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>But Iran says it will strike the US if attacked</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Iran has reportedly told the US via intermediaries that if it strikes Iranian soil directly, Tehran will itself hit back at American assets in West Asia, <em>The Guardian reported</em>. Iran is currently on high alert in the wake of Washington's avowal of a purported retaliation&nbsp;following the Jan 28 attack on the US airbase in Jordan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tehran has repeated that the strike was the work of independent "resistance groups".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is the bottom line?</strong></h2>

<p>The threat of a direct military confrontation between Iran and the United States persists amid Washington's avowal to retaliate in the wake of the Jan 28 attack on its airbase in Jordan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The tensions in West Asia continue to run high after three US troops were killed in Jordan, marking the first American fatalities since the region went into turmoil following the October 7 attack by Palestinian militant group Hamas and the consequent Israeli bombardment of Gaza.

The tensions in West Asia continue to run high after three US troops were killed in Jordan, marking the first American fatalities since the region went into turmoil following the October 7 attack by Palestinian militant group Hamas and the consequent Israeli bombardment of Gaza. But now, in a bid to tone down the tensions, the Iran-aligned Iraqi armed group Kataib Hezbollah announced the suspension of all its military operations on Tuesday (Jan 30). Also watch | Widening West Asia crisis: Three US soldiers killed in drone attack on US bases in Jordan × "As we announce the suspension of military and security operations against the occupation forces - in order to prevent embarrassment of the Iraqi government - we will continue to defend our people in Gaza in other ways," Kataib Hezbollah Secretary-General Abu Hussein al-Hamidawi said in a statement. The Pentagon claimed that the attack on the US base near the Jordan-Syria border bore the "footprints" of Kataib Hezbollah despite the absence of a final assessment. The US has vowed to attack the entities responsible for the attack on its base. Also read | Pentagon vows action after Jordan attack, releases names of 3 soldiers killed as Iran denies involvement Founded in 2007, Kataib Hezbollah seeks to establish an Iran-aligned government in Iraq, expel US and coalition forces from the country, and advance Iranian interests throughout West Asia. The US State Department designated the group as a foreign terrorist organisation in July 2009. Kataib Hezbollah’s overall leader, Ahmad al-Hamidawi, was named a Specially Designated Global Terrorist in February 2020. The group has claimed dozens of attacks on the US forces in Iraq and Syria since the beginning of the war in Gaza. But Iran says it will strike the US if attacked Meanwhile, Iran has reportedly told the US via intermediaries that if it strikes Iranian soil directly, Tehran will itself hit back at American assets in West Asia, The Guardian reported. Iran is currently on high alert in the wake of Washington's avowal of a purported retaliation following the Jan 28 attack on the US airbase in Jordan. Tehran has repeated that the strike was the work of independent "resistance groups". What is the bottom line? The threat of a direct military confrontation between Iran and the United States persists amid Washington's avowal to retaliate in the wake of the Jan 28 attack on its airbase in Jordan. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran remains on high alert even as Kataib Hezbollah suspends military operations

<p>Just hours after militants of Hamas stormed across the border between &nbsp;Israel and Gaza and massacred around 1,200 Israelis, Israeli warplanes began a bombing campaign that laid waste to entire cities and prompted charges of collective punishment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>That was on October 7, 2023. Sixteen weeks later, the Israeli government released an intelligence dossier that said 13 employees of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), the largest humanitarian relief body in Gaza, had been involved in the attack. Two helped in kidnapping some of the 250 people abducted that day.</p>

<p>UNRWA chief Phillippe Lazzarini said that those accused of complicity had been fired while the UN’s Office of Internal Oversight launched an investigation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said anyone complicit in the October 7 massacre would be held accountable, including through criminal prosecution.</p>

<p>But even before the investigation was launched, a string of countries announced they were suspending millions of dollars in funding for the agency, which is the main provider of food and shelter for more than two million people in Gaza. Israel’s war against Hamas has driven Gaza into a humanitarian catastrophe. The cuts will make conditions even worse.</p>

<p>Among the first countries to announce the suspension of aid was the United States, UNRWA's biggest donor, followed by Britain, Germany, Switzerland, and Australia. In 2022, the US&nbsp;donated $344 million, followed by Germany with $202 million.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UNRWA crisis: After US, Germany &amp; other European nations suspend funding | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>The crisis triggered by the Israeli allegations comes at a desperate time for Gaza, where more than 26,000 people have been killed, mostly women and children, and many of the 1,9 million who have been displaced are on the edge of starvation, according to the World Food Program.</p>

<p>According to Lazzarino, more than two million Gazans are almost entirely dependent on aid provided by UNRWA and more than a million are sheltering in UN&nbsp;facilities.</p>

<p>The suspension of aid has dismayed aid agencies and – in an echo of the post-October 7 Israeli bombing campaign, prompted accusations of collective punishment. That was the phrase used by Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukri and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-countries-pausing-funding-for-unrwa-might-be-violating-genocide-convention-heres-how-684886">Explained | Countries pausing funding for UNRWA might be violating genocide convention. Here’s how</a></strong></p>

<p>Sharp criticism also came from Norway, which did not join the cavalcade of aid suspenders.</p>

<p>Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said: “We should not collectively punish millions of people. We must distinguish between what individuals have done and what UNWRA stands for.” He urged donors to consider the consequences of funding cuts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jan Engeland, secretary of the general of the Norwegian Refugee Council condemned “an arbitrary and reckless defunding of a large lifeline on mere allegations from a party in the conflict.”</p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has made no secret of his disdain for the UN in general and UNRWA in particular, said in a British television interview that UNRWA was infiltrated by Hamas. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Neither Netanyahu nor anyone in his cabinet has explained who would do the work of UNRWA if lack of funds forced it to cease operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But it is becoming increasingly obvious that there is no end in sight to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. When Hamas started the war with its October 7 massacre, Netanyahu said Israel’s aim was to finish Hamas “once and for all.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>But both in Israel and the United States, military experts now estimate that Israel had managed to eliminate only between 20 and 30 per cent of Hamas’s fighters and still had no complete picture of the vast tunnel system the militant group built since Israel withdrew Jewish settlements there in 2005</p>

<p>American and Israeli officials estimate that Hamas had about 30,000 fighters when the war began, plus thousands of police and armed sympathisers. That means Israel’s “once and for all” will take time while the people of Gaza will remain victims of collective punishment.</p>

<p><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></p>


Just hours after militants of Hamas stormed across the border between Israel and Gaza and massacred around 1,200 Israelis, Israeli warplanes began a bombing campaign that laid waste to entire cities and prompted charges of collective punishment.

Just hours after militants of Hamas stormed across the border between Israel and Gaza and massacred around 1,200 Israelis, Israeli warplanes began a bombing campaign that laid waste to entire cities and prompted charges of collective punishment. That was on October 7, 2023. Sixteen weeks later, the Israeli government released an intelligence dossier that said 13 employees of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), the largest humanitarian relief body in Gaza, had been involved in the attack. Two helped in kidnapping some of the 250 people abducted that day. UNRWA chief Phillippe Lazzarini said that those accused of complicity had been fired while the UN’s Office of Internal Oversight launched an investigation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said anyone complicit in the October 7 massacre would be held accountable, including through criminal prosecution. But even before the investigation was launched, a string of countries announced they were suspending millions of dollars in funding for the agency, which is the main provider of food and shelter for more than two million people in Gaza. Israel’s war against Hamas has driven Gaza into a humanitarian catastrophe. The cuts will make conditions even worse. Among the first countries to announce the suspension of aid was the United States, UNRWA's biggest donor, followed by Britain, Germany, Switzerland, and Australia. In 2022, the US donated $344 million, followed by Germany with $202 million. Also watch | UNRWA crisis: After US, Germany & other European nations suspend funding | World News | WION × The crisis triggered by the Israeli allegations comes at a desperate time for Gaza, where more than 26,000 people have been killed, mostly women and children, and many of the 1,9 million who have been displaced are on the edge of starvation, according to the World Food Program. According to Lazzarino, more than two million Gazans are almost entirely dependent on aid provided by UNRWA and more than a million are sheltering in UN facilities. The suspension of aid has dismayed aid agencies and – in an echo of the post-October 7 Israeli bombing campaign, prompted accusations of collective punishment. That was the phrase used by Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukri and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Also read | Explained | Countries pausing funding for UNRWA might be violating genocide convention. Here’s how Sharp criticism also came from Norway, which did not join the cavalcade of aid suspenders. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said: “We should not collectively punish millions of people. We must distinguish between what individuals have done and what UNWRA stands for.” He urged donors to consider the consequences of funding cuts. Jan Engeland, secretary of the general of the Norwegian Refugee Council condemned “an arbitrary and reckless defunding of a large lifeline on mere allegations from a party in the conflict.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has made no secret of his disdain for the UN in general and UNRWA in particular, said in a British television interview that UNRWA was infiltrated by Hamas. Neither Netanyahu nor anyone in his cabinet has explained who would do the work of UNRWA if lack of funds forced it to cease operations. But it is becoming increasingly obvious that there is no end in sight to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. When Hamas started the war with its October 7 massacre, Netanyahu said Israel’s aim was to finish Hamas “once and for all.” But both in Israel and the United States, military experts now estimate that Israel had managed to eliminate only between 20 and 30 per cent of Hamas’s fighters and still had no complete picture of the vast tunnel system the militant group built since Israel withdrew Jewish settlements there in 2005 American and Israeli officials estimate that Hamas had about 30,000 fighters when the war began, plus thousands of police and armed sympathisers. That means Israel’s “once and for all” will take time while the people of Gaza will remain victims of collective punishment. (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.)

Israel-Hamas war: In Gaza, collective punishment is becoming routine

Militant group Hamas says it is studying a new proposal for a three-stage truce deal and ceasefire, in what seems to be the most serious peace initiative in months. Watch in the report for more details!

Hamas studies new ceasefire proposal | New proposal pitches six-week ceasefire

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has confirmed that it has been flooding tunnels in Gaza with large volumes of water in its effort to attack the terrorist infrastructure of Hamas. Watch in this report for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: IDF confirms flooding Hamas tunnels in Gaza with seawater

<p>Top officials from the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Egypt, Qatar, and Israel convened in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28) in a concerted effort to broker a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, news agency&nbsp;AFP reported citing sources close to the negotiations.</p>

<p>French authorities actively engaged with representatives in the talks have been aiming to facilitate a cessation of hostilities between Israel and the militant group Hamas in the blockaded Palestinian enclave.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-breaks-down-describing-hellish-gaza-conditions-684125">WHO chief breaks down describing 'hellish' Gaza conditions</a></strong></p>

<p>Last week, a security source cited by the AFP disclosed that William Burns, the head of the CIA, was scheduled to meet counterparts from Israel and Egypt, along with Qatar's prime minister.</p>

<p>The development aligned with a previous report in The Washington Post indicating President Joe Biden's deployment of Burns to negotiate the release of remaining Hamas-held Israeli hostages in exchange for a ceasefire.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | UN role in Gaza under spotlight</strong></p>

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<p>The <em>New York Times</em> reported on Saturday (Jan 27) that an emerging draft agreement, focusing on a two-month suspension of Israel's military operations in Gaza, would be deliberated upon during the Paris talks on Sunday.</p>

<p>US President Biden, involved in the diplomatic efforts, had discussions with Qatar's emir on Friday regarding the hostage situation. The White House clarified that while talks were ongoing, "imminent developments" were not expected.</p>

<p>Qatar played a pivotal role in the negotiations, having previously brokered a hostage release deal in November.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, killing about 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The militants also seized around 250 hostages, with Israel reporting that about 132 remain in Gaza, including the bodies of at least 28 deceased captives.</p>

<p>The ensuing Israeli military offensive, in response to the attacks, has led to an unprecedented humanitarian crisis with at least 26,422 killed in Gaza, as per the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The negotiations in Paris signify a critical step towards a potential ceasefire and resolution of the ongoing conflict.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Top officials from the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Egypt, Qatar, and Israel convened in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28) in a concerted effort to broker a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, news agency AFP reported citing sources close to the negotiations.

Top officials from the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Egypt, Qatar, and Israel convened in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28) in a concerted effort to broker a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, news agency AFP reported citing sources close to the negotiations. French authorities actively engaged with representatives in the talks have been aiming to facilitate a cessation of hostilities between Israel and the militant group Hamas in the blockaded Palestinian enclave. Also read | WHO chief breaks down describing 'hellish' Gaza conditions Last week, a security source cited by the AFP disclosed that William Burns, the head of the CIA, was scheduled to meet counterparts from Israel and Egypt, along with Qatar's prime minister. The development aligned with a previous report in The Washington Post indicating President Joe Biden's deployment of Burns to negotiate the release of remaining Hamas-held Israeli hostages in exchange for a ceasefire. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war | UN role in Gaza under spotlight × The New York Times reported on Saturday (Jan 27) that an emerging draft agreement, focusing on a two-month suspension of Israel's military operations in Gaza, would be deliberated upon during the Paris talks on Sunday. US President Biden, involved in the diplomatic efforts, had discussions with Qatar's emir on Friday regarding the hostage situation. The White House clarified that while talks were ongoing, "imminent developments" were not expected. Qatar played a pivotal role in the negotiations, having previously brokered a hostage release deal in November. Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, killing about 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The militants also seized around 250 hostages, with Israel reporting that about 132 remain in Gaza, including the bodies of at least 28 deceased captives. The ensuing Israeli military offensive, in response to the attacks, has led to an unprecedented humanitarian crisis with at least 26,422 killed in Gaza, as per the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory. The negotiations in Paris signify a critical step towards a potential ceasefire and resolution of the ongoing conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Focus on Paris talks to broker two-month ceasefire in Gaza

<p>International Holocaust Remembrance Day is marked annually on January 27,&nbsp;designated by the United Nations to honour the 6 million Jews and other minorities killed by Adolf Hitler-led Nazi Germany during the Second&nbsp;World War.</p>

<p>On this day in 1945, Soviet troops liberated Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp where over 1.1 million people, primarily Jews, were killed.</p>

<h2><strong>Why Holocaust Remembrance Day is significant?</strong></h2>

<p>Established in 2005 by the UN General Assembly, the day serves to remember all Holocaust victims and promote global education to prevent future genocides.</p>

<p>According to the United Nations, approximately 245,000 Holocaust survivors remain worldwide, with nearly half residing in Israel.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-pays-private-visit-to-auschwitz-speaks-on-antisemitism-682591">Elon Musk pays private visit to Auschwitz, speaks on antisemitism</a></strong></p>

<p>Observances include lighting candles, reading victims' names, and learning about Holocaust history.</p>

<p>While this is a global remembrance, countries like Israel also have specific days, such as Yom HaShoah on May 5 and 6.</p>

<h2><strong>Holocaust remembrance amid Israel-Hamas war</strong></h2>

<p>The recent October 7 Hamas attack, resulting in about 1,200 Jewish deaths, has drawn comparisons to the Holocaust. But the comparisons soon began to precipitate as Israel's military response led to an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden condemned the Oct 7 attack and outlined measures to combat rising antisemitism, referring to the 2023 National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism.</p>

<p>In Washington, the US Holocaust Memorial Museum hosted events, including reading victims' names and engaging with survivors. The United Nations also held a Holocaust Memorial Ceremony, where survivors shared testimonies. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged solidarity against hate.</p>

<p>Israeli Representative to the UN, Gilad Erdan said:&nbsp;"Today is not only a day of remembrance; this day was designated to also prevent future acts of genocide — to internalise the lessons of the Holocaust."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Holocaust Remembrance Day: Remembering the 6 million Jews killed in the Holocaust</strong></p>

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<p>South Africa recently brought a charge of genocide against Israel at the International Court of Justice over its actions in Gaza. The court ruled that Israel must prevent genocide but did not order an immediate halt to its offensive.</p>

<p>Israel, in response to the October 7 attack, launched an offensive against Hamas in Gaza, resulting in over 26,000 Palestinian deaths. Israeli leaders reject accusations of genocide, asserting their actions target Hamas, not civilians.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


International Holocaust Remembrance Day is marked annually on January 27, designated by the United Nations to honour the 6 million Jews and other minorities killed by Adolf Hitler-led Nazi Germany during the Second World War.

International Holocaust Remembrance Day is marked annually on January 27, designated by the United Nations to honour the 6 million Jews and other minorities killed by Adolf Hitler-led Nazi Germany during the Second World War. On this day in 1945, Soviet troops liberated Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp where over 1.1 million people, primarily Jews, were killed. Why Holocaust Remembrance Day is significant? Established in 2005 by the UN General Assembly, the day serves to remember all Holocaust victims and promote global education to prevent future genocides. According to the United Nations, approximately 245,000 Holocaust survivors remain worldwide, with nearly half residing in Israel. Also read | Elon Musk pays private visit to Auschwitz, speaks on antisemitism Observances include lighting candles, reading victims' names, and learning about Holocaust history. While this is a global remembrance, countries like Israel also have specific days, such as Yom HaShoah on May 5 and 6. Holocaust remembrance amid Israel-Hamas war The recent October 7 Hamas attack, resulting in about 1,200 Jewish deaths, has drawn comparisons to the Holocaust. But the comparisons soon began to precipitate as Israel's military response led to an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Gaza. US President Joe Biden condemned the Oct 7 attack and outlined measures to combat rising antisemitism, referring to the 2023 National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism. In Washington, the US Holocaust Memorial Museum hosted events, including reading victims' names and engaging with survivors. The United Nations also held a Holocaust Memorial Ceremony, where survivors shared testimonies. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged solidarity against hate. Israeli Representative to the UN, Gilad Erdan said: "Today is not only a day of remembrance; this day was designated to also prevent future acts of genocide — to internalise the lessons of the Holocaust." Also watch | Holocaust Remembrance Day: Remembering the 6 million Jews killed in the Holocaust × South Africa recently brought a charge of genocide against Israel at the International Court of Justice over its actions in Gaza. The court ruled that Israel must prevent genocide but did not order an immediate halt to its offensive. Israel, in response to the October 7 attack, launched an offensive against Hamas in Gaza, resulting in over 26,000 Palestinian deaths. Israeli leaders reject accusations of genocide, asserting their actions target Hamas, not civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

Holocaust Remembrance Day: World recalls Hitler’s tyranny amid Israel-Hamas war

Israeli officials are bracing for an expected interim ruling from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on South Africa’s allegation that the war in Gaza amounts to genocide against Palestinians, an emergency measure that could expose Israel to international sanctions.

Israel-Hamas War: ICJ to rule genocide case against Israel

Qatar said it was “appalled” by leaked remarks made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in which he criticized the country’s mediation efforts with Hamas, complicating already arduous negotiations meant to halt the hostilities in exchange for a hostage release.

Qatar lashes out at Netanyahu over critical remarks

Qatar: Netanyahu's reported criticism undermines Gaza mediation

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