Hezbollah Chief Hassan Nasrallah has issued a fresh warning of retaliation against Israel after the killing Hamas Deputy Chief Saleh al-Arouri in Beirut. The chief says Lebanon would be exposed to more Israeli operations if his militant group does not respond.

Israel-Gaza War: Hezbollah chief warns Israel amid retaliation fears

The US State Department is offering up to $10 million for information on five Hamas financiers or anything leading to the disruption of the Palestinian militant group's financial mechanisms.

Israel-Gaza War: US offers $10 mn for financial information on Hamas backers

Israel-Hamas War: Hezbollah chief says Lebanon could be 'exposed' to more Israeli attacks

Here we bring you the latest updates from the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas: - Israel wants war to continue - IDF reports troops have raided Hamas compound connected to underground network - Hamas releases footage of fighting against Israeli military around Gaza City

Israel at War: IDF reports troops have raided Hamas compound connected to underground network

The names of more than 170 people who were either associates, friends, or survivors&nbsp;of late disgraced financier Jeffrey&nbsp;Epstein&nbsp;were made public following a US judge’s order. The first tranche of documents featured high-profile figures such as Prince Andrew and former US President Bill Clinton.

In West Asia, the US and its allies have warned Yemen's Houthi rebels of 'consequences' if the shipping attacks in the Red Sea continue.

In South America,&nbsp;a top Argentine court suspended a package of labour reforms President&nbsp;Javier Milei decreed last month amid much criticism from rivals.

Click here to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jeffrey-epsteins-court-files-unsealed-prince-andrew-and-clinton-emerge-as-big-names-676343">Jeffrey Epstein's court files unsealed, Bill Clinton and Prince Andrew emerge as big names</a>

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Court documents with names of people linked to sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein were made public Wednesday (Jan 3). Former US president Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew – a member of the UK's royal family, as well as musician Michael Jackson and famed magician David Copperfield emerged as some of the big names. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-allies-warn-yemens-houthis-of-consequences-if-red-sea-shipping-crisis-continues-676351">US, allies warn Yemen's Houthis of 'consequences' if Red Sea shipping crisis continues</a>

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The US-led 12-nation coalition has warned Yemen-based and Iran-backed Houthi rebels of "consequences" unless they stop their attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/setback-for-argentine-president-milei-as-top-court-suspends-his-mega-decree-labour-reforms-676381">Setback for Argentine President Milei as top court suspends his 'mega-decree' labour reforms</a>

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Newly elected far-right Argentine President Javier Milei has received his first setback since coming to power last year. On Wednesday (Jan 3), a top Argentine court suspended a package of labour reforms he decreed last month amid much criticism from rivals.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-rise-in-west-asia-israel-stares-at-wider-west-asia-conflict-brewing-conflict-in-red-sea-676376">Tensions rise in West Asia: Israel stares at wider West Asia conflict | Brewing conflict in Red Sea</a>

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-urges-us-supreme-court-to-summarily-reverse-colorado-presidential-primary-ballot-ban-676361">Donald Trump urges US Supreme Court to 'summarily reverse' Colorado presidential primary ballot ban</a>

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Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 3) appealed to the country's highest court to lift a Colorado state ban that seeks to keep him off the presidential primary ballot in the western US state. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-newark-mosque-imam-in-critical-condition-after-being-shot-investigation-underway-676337">US: Newark mosque Imam dies after being shot, investigation underway</a>

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An imam (the officiating priest of a mosque), identified as Imam Hassan Sharif, was shot outside Masjid Muhammad-Newark in Newark, New Jersey, around 6:15 am. The critically wounded Imam was&nbsp;transported to University hospital two blocks away, where he died due to injuries. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-aamir-khans-daughter-ira-ties-the-knot-with-fiance-nupur-shikhare-676378">Aamir Khan's daughter Ira ties the knot with fiance Nupur Shikhare</a>

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Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan and film producer Reena Dutt's daughter Ira Khan tied the knot with her fiance Nupur Shikhare in Mumbai on Wednesday. Ira is a founder and CEO of a mental health support organisation while Nupur is a celebrity fitness trainer and athlete.&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-2nd-test-india-hold-the-edge-as-day-1-ends-with-23-wickets-falling-in-cape-town-676294">SA vs IND, 2nd Test: India hold the edge as Day 1 ends with 23 wickets falling in Cape Town</a>

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Day One of the second and final Test between India and South Africa, at Newlands Cape Town, saw as many as 23 wickets falling on Wednesday (Jan 3). Opting to bat first, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas were dismissed for a paltry 55, the lowest total by any team against India in the format, courtesy of&nbsp;Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15. After the tea break, India were 153 for 4 before the SA pacers -- Lungi Ngidi (3 for 30), Kagiso Rabada (3 for 30) and Nandre Burger (3 for 42) -- combined to dismiss them at the&nbsp;same score.

&nbsp;

The names of more than 170 people who were either associates, friends, or survivors of late disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein were made public following a US judge’s order.

The names of more than 170 people who were either associates, friends, or survivors of late disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein were made public following a US judge’s order. The first tranche of documents featured high-profile figures such as Prince Andrew and former US President Bill Clinton. In West Asia, the US and its allies have warned Yemen's Houthi rebels of 'consequences' if the shipping attacks in the Red Sea continue. In South America, a top Argentine court suspended a package of labour reforms President Javier Milei decreed last month amid much criticism from rivals. Click here to read more: Jeffrey Epstein's court files unsealed, Bill Clinton and Prince Andrew emerge as big names Court documents with names of people linked to sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein were made public Wednesday (Jan 3). Former US president Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew – a member of the UK's royal family, as well as musician Michael Jackson and famed magician David Copperfield emerged as some of the big names. US, allies warn Yemen's Houthis of 'consequences' if Red Sea shipping crisis continues The US-led 12-nation coalition has warned Yemen-based and Iran-backed Houthi rebels of "consequences" unless they stop their attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea. Setback for Argentine President Milei as top court suspends his 'mega-decree' labour reforms Newly elected far-right Argentine President Javier Milei has received his first setback since coming to power last year. On Wednesday (Jan 3), a top Argentine court suspended a package of labour reforms he decreed last month amid much criticism from rivals. Tensions rise in West Asia: Israel stares at wider West Asia conflict | Brewing conflict in Red Sea × Donald Trump urges US Supreme Court to 'summarily reverse' Colorado presidential primary ballot ban Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 3) appealed to the country's highest court to lift a Colorado state ban that seeks to keep him off the presidential primary ballot in the western US state. US: Newark mosque Imam dies after being shot, investigation underway An imam (the officiating priest of a mosque), identified as Imam Hassan Sharif, was shot outside Masjid Muhammad-Newark in Newark, New Jersey, around 6:15 am. The critically wounded Imam was transported to University hospital two blocks away, where he died due to injuries. Aamir Khan's daughter Ira ties the knot with fiance Nupur Shikhare Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan and film producer Reena Dutt's daughter Ira Khan tied the knot with her fiance Nupur Shikhare in Mumbai on Wednesday. Ira is a founder and CEO of a mental health support organisation while Nupur is a celebrity fitness trainer and athlete. SA vs IND, 2nd Test: India hold the edge as Day 1 ends with 23 wickets falling in Cape Town Day One of the second and final Test between India and South Africa, at Newlands Cape Town, saw as many as 23 wickets falling on Wednesday (Jan 3). Opting to bat first, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas were dismissed for a paltry 55, the lowest total by any team against India in the format, courtesy of Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15. After the tea break, India were 153 for 4 before the SA pacers -- Lungi Ngidi (3 for 30), Kagiso Rabada (3 for 30) and Nandre Burger (3 for 42) -- combined to dismiss them at the same score.

Morning brief: Jeffrey Epstein's court files unsealed, Israel stares at wider conflict, and more

The US-led 12-nation coalition has warned Yemen-based and Iran-backed Houthi rebels of "consequences" unless they stop their attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea.&nbsp;

On December 19, 2023, Washington announced the launch of a "multinational security initiative" — constituting Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, the Seychelles and the United Kingdom among others — to protect trade in the Red Sea after attacks by Houthi rebels in purported solidarity with Palestinians living under a state of war in Gaza&nbsp;forced at least a dozen shipping lines to suspend operations.

"Let our message now be clear: we call for the immediate end of these illegal attacks and release of unlawfully detained vessels and crews," the White House said in a statement released on Wednesday, Jan 3, 2023.

Hours after the White House statement, the UN maritime agency said that eighteen shipping companies are re-routing their vessels around Africa to avoid the Red Sea amid an upsurge in attacks on shipping.

"A significant number of companies, around 18 shipping companies, have already decided to reroute their vessels around South Africa to reduce the attacks on vessels," said International Maritime Organization chief Arsenio Dominguez.

"(This) represents an additional 10 days to the journeys (and) negative impact on trade and on increasing freight rates."

<h2>Houthis will bear 'responsibility' if threat to 'global economy' continues: US-led alliance</h2>

The US-led alliance said that the Houthis will bear the consequences if they continue to threaten the global economy.

"The Houthis will bear the responsibility of the consequences should they continue to threaten lives, the global economy and free flow of commerce in the region’s critical waterways."

The statement comes after reports in the US media that the Biden administration is considering direct strikes on the Houthis if the attacks continue.

Also watch |&nbsp;Red Sea Crisis: Iran warship enters trade passage amid Houthi attacks on vessels

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The US has sent an aircraft carrier, the USS Dwight D Eisenhower, to the area and earlier announced a coalition of countries to protect movement in the Red Sea, through which 12 per cent of global trade passes.

The Indian Navy, too, has deployed INS Kolkata, INS Kochi, INS Mormugao, INS Chennai, and INS Visakhapatnam in the north Arabian Sea region following attacks on India-bound merchant vessels while they were in the maritime region under attack by the Houthis.&nbsp;

Around 20,000 ships transit annually through the Suez Canal, carrying millions of barrels of oil daily and&nbsp;goods made in Asia. The Houthis have sought to target Bab al-Mandab, a 29 km wide shipping route at its narrowest point in the Red Sea, that has threatened the passage of these merchant vessels across the Suez Canal.

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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-sea-ship-attacks-inside-disrupted-shipping-route-over-west-asias-gate-of-tears-673216">Red Sea ship attacks: Inside disrupted shipping route through West Asia's 'gate of tears'</a> 
 
The White House statement pointed out that the merchant shipping vessels through the maritime region also constitute&nbsp;8 per cent of global grain trade, 12 per cent of seaborne-traded oil, and 8 per cent of the world’s liquefied natural gas trade.

Yemen's Houthis, despite a semblance of cessation of hostilities during the Yemeni civil war, at present&nbsp;have drones, short-range rockets, and even ballistic missiles reportedly due to Iranian support.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The US-led 12-nation coalition has warned Yemen-based and Iran-backed Houthi rebels of "consequences" unless they stop their attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea.

The US-led 12-nation coalition has warned Yemen-based and Iran-backed Houthi rebels of "consequences" unless they stop their attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea. On December 19, 2023, Washington announced the launch of a "multinational security initiative" — constituting Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, the Seychelles and the United Kingdom among others — to protect trade in the Red Sea after attacks by Houthi rebels in purported solidarity with Palestinians living under a state of war in Gaza forced at least a dozen shipping lines to suspend operations. "Let our message now be clear: we call for the immediate end of these illegal attacks and release of unlawfully detained vessels and crews," the White House said in a statement released on Wednesday, Jan 3, 2023. Hours after the White House statement, the UN maritime agency said that eighteen shipping companies are re-routing their vessels around Africa to avoid the Red Sea amid an upsurge in attacks on shipping. "A significant number of companies, around 18 shipping companies, have already decided to reroute their vessels around South Africa to reduce the attacks on vessels," said International Maritime Organization chief Arsenio Dominguez. "(This) represents an additional 10 days to the journeys (and) negative impact on trade and on increasing freight rates." Houthis will bear 'responsibility' if threat to 'global economy' continues: US-led alliance The US-led alliance said that the Houthis will bear the consequences if they continue to threaten the global economy. "The Houthis will bear the responsibility of the consequences should they continue to threaten lives, the global economy and free flow of commerce in the region’s critical waterways." The statement comes after reports in the US media that the Biden administration is considering direct strikes on the Houthis if the attacks continue. Also watch | Red Sea Crisis: Iran warship enters trade passage amid Houthi attacks on vessels × The US has sent an aircraft carrier, the USS Dwight D Eisenhower, to the area and earlier announced a coalition of countries to protect movement in the Red Sea, through which 12 per cent of global trade passes. The Indian Navy, too, has deployed INS Kolkata, INS Kochi, INS Mormugao, INS Chennai, and INS Visakhapatnam in the north Arabian Sea region following attacks on India-bound merchant vessels while they were in the maritime region under attack by the Houthis. Around 20,000 ships transit annually through the Suez Canal, carrying millions of barrels of oil daily and goods made in Asia. The Houthis have sought to target Bab al-Mandab, a 29 km wide shipping route at its narrowest point in the Red Sea, that has threatened the passage of these merchant vessels across the Suez Canal. Also read | Red Sea ship attacks: Inside disrupted shipping route through West Asia's 'gate of tears' The White House statement pointed out that the merchant shipping vessels through the maritime region also constitute 8 per cent of global grain trade, 12 per cent of seaborne-traded oil, and 8 per cent of the world’s liquefied natural gas trade. Yemen's Houthis, despite a semblance of cessation of hostilities during the Yemeni civil war, at present have drones, short-range rockets, and even ballistic missiles reportedly due to Iranian support. (With inputs from agencies)

US, allies warn Yemen's Houthis of 'consequences' if Red Sea shipping crisis continues

Israel's spy chief David Barnea vowed to make Hamas pay for its attacks on Israel, after a drone strike attributed to Israel killed the group's deputy chief Saleh al-Arouri in Lebanon.

'Committed to settle scores with Hamas', says Mossad Chief David Barnea

The death of Hamas leader Saleh al-Arouri is sparking new worries for many Israelis. Families of hostages are particularly worried that al-Arouri's killing in Beirut risks a wider war and ruins the prospects for any agreement on the release of hostages.

Israel-Hamas War: Hostages' kin fear safety of their loved ones as war spreads

Israel-Hamas War: Israel's spy chief David Barnea vows to 'settle score' with Hamas

The head of Lebanon's Hezbollah Hassan Nasrallah said that it "cannot be silent" after the killing of Hamas' deputy leader in Beirut and warned that his heavily armed forces would fight to the finish if Israel chose to extend war from Gaza to Lebanon.

Israel-Hamas War: Hezbollah Chief warns Israel against spreading Gaza war

Israeli air strikes relentlessly pounded the blockaded Palestinian enclave of Gaza on the last day of 2023 in a stark&nbsp;culmination of a year of conflict between the Jewish state and the militant group Hamas.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning to Hamas and asserted&nbsp;that the conflict triggered by Hamas' October 7 terror attack on Israel would continue for "many months."

The Israeli Army reportedly engaged in multiple ground battles, air raids, and tank strikes. It also&nbsp;claimed to have identified Hamas tunnels and explosives in locations such as a kindergarten.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-riyadhs-show-of-islamic-unity-for-palestine-amid-israel-hamas-war-657849">The Capitals: Riyadh's show of Islamic unity for Palestine amid Israel-Hamas war</a>

The UN disclosed that 85 per cent of Gaza's 2.4 million people have been displaced, and warned of a continued humanitarian crisis&nbsp;as winter takes hold.

<h2>Israel-Hamas war: What the situation in Gaza is like&nbsp;</h2>

As&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war continues raging since October 7, 2023, Gaza's landscape has transformed into a wasteland, with casualties reaching a staggering 21,822, mostly women and children, according to the latest figures released by the Hamas-run&nbsp;health ministry in Gaza.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the plight of Israelis held hostage by Hamas&nbsp;remains dire, with at least 129 believed to be still held in Gaza.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Displaced Palestinians wish to return home

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Hospitals in Gaza are overwhelmed or out of service.

Despite international calls for a ceasefire, Israel remains resolute in its pursuit of 'decimating'&nbsp;Hamas.

UN Chief Antonio Guterres condemned the "epic human suffering" and "collective punishment" faced by Palestinian civilians.

As the world watches, the immediate future remains uncertain, with the shadow of continued conflict looming large.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli air strikes relentlessly pounded the blockaded Palestinian enclave of Gaza on the last day of 2023 in a stark culmination of a year of conflict between the Jewish state and the militant group Hamas.

Israeli air strikes relentlessly pounded the blockaded Palestinian enclave of Gaza on the last day of 2023 in a stark culmination of a year of conflict between the Jewish state and the militant group Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning to Hamas and asserted that the conflict triggered by Hamas' October 7 terror attack on Israel would continue for "many months." The Israeli Army reportedly engaged in multiple ground battles, air raids, and tank strikes. It also claimed to have identified Hamas tunnels and explosives in locations such as a kindergarten. Also read | The Capitals: Riyadh's show of Islamic unity for Palestine amid Israel-Hamas war The UN disclosed that 85 per cent of Gaza's 2.4 million people have been displaced, and warned of a continued humanitarian crisis as winter takes hold. Israel-Hamas war: What the situation in Gaza is like As Israel-Hamas war continues raging since October 7, 2023, Gaza's landscape has transformed into a wasteland, with casualties reaching a staggering 21,822, mostly women and children, according to the latest figures released by the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza. Meanwhile, the plight of Israelis held hostage by Hamas remains dire, with at least 129 believed to be still held in Gaza. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Displaced Palestinians wish to return home × Hospitals in Gaza are overwhelmed or out of service. Despite international calls for a ceasefire, Israel remains resolute in its pursuit of 'decimating' Hamas. UN Chief Antonio Guterres condemned the "epic human suffering" and "collective punishment" faced by Palestinian civilians. As the world watches, the immediate future remains uncertain, with the shadow of continued conflict looming large. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Gaza conflict set to go on for 'many months' in 2024

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a far-right leader, called for return of Jewish settlers to the Gaza Strip after current war between Israel and Hamas is over. The minister also said on Sunday (December 31, 2023) that Palestinians should be encouraged to emigrate out of Gaza Strip.

"To have security we must control the territory," Smotrich said as quoted by Israel's Army Radio. He was responding to a question which asked him about prospects of re-estabilshing settlements in Gaza.

"In order to control the territory militarily for a long time, we need a civilian presence," he said.

In 2005, Israel unilaterally withdrew its soldiers and settlers. This ended their presence in the enclave since 1967. However, Israel has been maintaining tight control over the territory’s borders.

Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza death toll climbs to over 21800: Hamas health ministry

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Under international law, all settlements on occupied Palestinian land are considered illegal irrespective of state of their approval by Israel.

Smotrich is chief of the far-right Religious Zionism party, which is part of the ruling coalition.

"If we act in a strategically correct way and encourage emigration, if there are 100,000 or 200,000 Arabs in Gaza and not two million, the whole discourse of the day after (the war) will be completely different," he said.

"We will help rehabilitate these refugees in other countries in a good and humane manner with the cooperation of the international community and Arab countries around us."

<h2>Hamas reacts sharply</h2>

Hamas has condemned Smotrich's comments saying it was a "vile mockery and a war crime". In its statement quoted by AFP, Hamas said that Gazans "will stand firm and steadfast in the face of all attempts to displace them from their land and homes".

The plan to make Gazans emigrate has not been officially presented by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. It has also has not said officially that Israeli settlers should be sent back to Gaza Strip after the war is over.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-gaza-conflict-looms-large-for-many-months-in-2024-675368">Israel-Hamas war: Gaza conflict set to go on for 'many months' in 2024</a>

Israel has mounted a serious military response since Hamas fighters crossed borders in northern Gaza on October 7 and killed at least 1200 people in Israeli territory and took hostages.

The Israeli response has seen the country carry out hundreds of air attacks inside Gaza Strip as Israeli tanks and troops were deployed for ground operation.

According to Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, more than 21,000 civilians have died so far in the ongoing conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a far-right leader, called for return of Jewish settlers to the Gaza Strip after current war between Israel and Hamas is over.

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a far-right leader, called for return of Jewish settlers to the Gaza Strip after current war between Israel and Hamas is over. The minister also said on Sunday (December 31, 2023) that Palestinians should be encouraged to emigrate out of Gaza Strip. "To have security we must control the territory," Smotrich said as quoted by Israel's Army Radio. He was responding to a question which asked him about prospects of re-estabilshing settlements in Gaza. "In order to control the territory militarily for a long time, we need a civilian presence," he said. In 2005, Israel unilaterally withdrew its soldiers and settlers. This ended their presence in the enclave since 1967. However, Israel has been maintaining tight control over the territory’s borders. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza death toll climbs to over 21800: Hamas health ministry × Under international law, all settlements on occupied Palestinian land are considered illegal irrespective of state of their approval by Israel. Smotrich is chief of the far-right Religious Zionism party, which is part of the ruling coalition. "If we act in a strategically correct way and encourage emigration, if there are 100,000 or 200,000 Arabs in Gaza and not two million, the whole discourse of the day after (the war) will be completely different," he said. "We will help rehabilitate these refugees in other countries in a good and humane manner with the cooperation of the international community and Arab countries around us." Hamas reacts sharply Hamas has condemned Smotrich's comments saying it was a "vile mockery and a war crime". In its statement quoted by AFP, Hamas said that Gazans "will stand firm and steadfast in the face of all attempts to displace them from their land and homes". The plan to make Gazans emigrate has not been officially presented by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. It has also has not said officially that Israeli settlers should be sent back to Gaza Strip after the war is over. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza conflict set to go on for 'many months' in 2024 Israel has mounted a serious military response since Hamas fighters crossed borders in northern Gaza on October 7 and killed at least 1200 people in Israeli territory and took hostages. The Israeli response has seen the country carry out hundreds of air attacks inside Gaza Strip as Israeli tanks and troops were deployed for ground operation. According to Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, more than 21,000 civilians have died so far in the ongoing conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel minister says Israeli settlers should return to Gaza

Amid the Israel-Hamas war that has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza, Christian communities in the Palestinian territories, southern Lebanon, and Syria marked a subdued Christmas, setting a somber tone for the upcoming festivities, including the New Year 2024.

In a poignant gesture of solidarity with Gaza, Sharjah, the third-largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates, has decided to cancel its customary New Year’s Eve celebrations, including firework displays.&nbsp;

Sharjah Police have warned of legal measures against those participating in unauthorised festivities, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

But this stance is not echoed uniformly across West Asia.&nbsp;

However, other emirates, known for their extravagant New Year’s Eve celebrations, have not announced similar bans.&nbsp;

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is gearing up for the Sheikh Zayed Festival, featuring a record-breaking hour-long firework display. In Dubai, various major displays, including at the iconic Burj Khalifa, are on the agenda, with Global Village confirming no fewer than seven fireworks shows.

<h2>New Year celebrations to continue&nbsp;elsewhere in West Asia</h2>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-caretaker-pm-kakar-announces-ban-on-new-year-celebrations-heres-why-674761">Pakistan caretaker PM Kakar announces ban on New Year celebrations, here's why</a>

Lebanon's capital, Beirut, plans customary street parties and live concerts, while Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is scheduled for multiple firework displays. Lusail City in Qatar is set to host laser shows and fireworks, having previously scaled down National Day celebrations in solidarity with Gaza.

Outside the West Asia, Pakistan has imposed a "strict ban" on any New Year events. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar has called on the nation to stand in solidarity with Palestinians.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Gaza &amp; Israel fail to light up for New Year amid fresh skirmishes

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Fighting raged Saturday across Gaza, where displaced Palestinians said they were "exhausted" with no end in sight to the war between the besieged territory's Hamas rulers and Israel, now in its 13th week.

The retaliatory state of war which began with Hamas's bloody October 7 attacks on southern Israel, which left about 1,200 people dead, has so far claimed the lives of 21,672 people, mostly women and children.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the Israel-Hamas war that has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza, Christian communities in the Palestinian territories, southern Lebanon, and Syria marked a subdued Christmas, setting a somber tone for the upcoming festivities, including the New Year 2024.

Amid the Israel-Hamas war that has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza, Christian communities in the Palestinian territories, southern Lebanon, and Syria marked a subdued Christmas, setting a somber tone for the upcoming festivities, including the New Year 2024. In a poignant gesture of solidarity with Gaza, Sharjah, the third-largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates, has decided to cancel its customary New Year’s Eve celebrations, including firework displays. Sharjah Police have warned of legal measures against those participating in unauthorised festivities, underscoring the gravity of the situation. But this stance is not echoed uniformly across West Asia. However, other emirates, known for their extravagant New Year’s Eve celebrations, have not announced similar bans. Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is gearing up for the Sheikh Zayed Festival, featuring a record-breaking hour-long firework display. In Dubai, various major displays, including at the iconic Burj Khalifa, are on the agenda, with Global Village confirming no fewer than seven fireworks shows. New Year celebrations to continue elsewhere in West Asia Also read | Pakistan caretaker PM Kakar announces ban on New Year celebrations, here's why Lebanon's capital, Beirut, plans customary street parties and live concerts, while Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is scheduled for multiple firework displays. Lusail City in Qatar is set to host laser shows and fireworks, having previously scaled down National Day celebrations in solidarity with Gaza. Outside the West Asia, Pakistan has imposed a "strict ban" on any New Year events. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar has called on the nation to stand in solidarity with Palestinians. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza & Israel fail to light up for New Year amid fresh skirmishes × Fighting raged Saturday across Gaza, where displaced Palestinians said they were "exhausted" with no end in sight to the war between the besieged territory's Hamas rulers and Israel, now in its 13th week. The retaliatory state of war which began with Hamas's bloody October 7 attacks on southern Israel, which left about 1,200 people dead, has so far claimed the lives of 21,672 people, mostly women and children. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war expected to mute New Year celebrations in West Asia but not in Dubai

Muhammad Issa, son of Hamas' Deputy Military Commander Marwan Ussa has been killed, according to Israeli media reports.&nbsp;Muhammad&nbsp;succumbed to early morning airstrikes from the Israeli side on Thursday (Dec 28), a report in Ynet has claimed.&nbsp;

Notably, this is Issa's second son to die after&nbsp;his oldest son died about a year ago due to an illness. At the time, Marwan&nbsp;was unable to get him out of the Gaza Strip for treatment.

Earlier in the day, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum stated that the second American citizen had died in Hamas captivity. The forum said Judi Haggai had died, days after her husband Gad Haggai was also pronounced dead.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hamas is yet to confirm Haggai's death and will probably never do as has been the case with other hostages. Although the terror outfit has warned that "time is running out" for the hostages as the war enters its 13th week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-at-least-195-killed-in-israeli-strikes-in-past-24-hours-674363">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: At least 195 killed in Israeli strikes in past 24 hours</a>

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<h2>Who were the&nbsp;Haggai's?</h2>

According to Israeli media reports, Haggai was a retired chef and a jazz musician, married to 70-year-old Judi Weinstein. The couple together had four kids and were grandparents to seven.&nbsp;

They were on their morning walk in Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7 when the Hamas terrorists entered the region and abducted them.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Notably, the couple captured a 40-second video clip that was shared in the group chat. The clip showed Weinstein asking Haggai what the recorded voice on the alert system said.&nbsp;

“Red alert,” answered Haggai while referring to the warning for the incoming rocket fire.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-used-2000-pound-bombs-to-kill-civilians-in-gaza-reports-672570">Also read |&nbsp;Israel used 2,000-pound bombs to kill civilians in Gaza: Reports</a>

Since the October 7 attacks, as many as 1,140 people have died, most of them civilians, according to Israeli authorities.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza claims Israel's military response has killed more than 21,000 people, mostly women and children.

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.

Muhammad Issa, son of Hamas' Deputy Military Commander Marwan Ussa has been killed, according to Israeli media reports. Muhammad succumbed to early morning airstrikes from the Israeli side on Thursday (Dec 28), a report in Ynet has claimed.

Muhammad Issa, son of Hamas' Deputy Military Commander Marwan Ussa has been killed, according to Israeli media reports. Muhammad succumbed to early morning airstrikes from the Israeli side on Thursday (Dec 28), a report in Ynet has claimed. Notably, this is Issa's second son to die after his oldest son died about a year ago due to an illness. At the time, Marwan was unable to get him out of the Gaza Strip for treatment. Earlier in the day, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum stated that the second American citizen had died in Hamas captivity. The forum said Judi Haggai had died, days after her husband Gad Haggai was also pronounced dead. Hamas is yet to confirm Haggai's death and will probably never do as has been the case with other hostages. Although the terror outfit has warned that "time is running out" for the hostages as the war enters its 13th week. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: At least 195 killed in Israeli strikes in past 24 hours × Who were the Haggai's? According to Israeli media reports, Haggai was a retired chef and a jazz musician, married to 70-year-old Judi Weinstein. The couple together had four kids and were grandparents to seven. They were on their morning walk in Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7 when the Hamas terrorists entered the region and abducted them. Notably, the couple captured a 40-second video clip that was shared in the group chat. The clip showed Weinstein asking Haggai what the recorded voice on the alert system said. “Red alert,” answered Haggai while referring to the warning for the incoming rocket fire. Also read | Israel used 2,000-pound bombs to kill civilians in Gaza: Reports Since the October 7 attacks, as many as 1,140 people have died, most of them civilians, according to Israeli authorities. Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza claims Israel's military response has killed more than 21,000 people, mostly women and children. 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.

Son of Hamas Deputy Commander Marwan Issa killed in Israeli airstrike: Reports

The Israeli bombardment in Gaza after October 7 attack by Hamas continued for 83rd day with no scope for truce in sight. Shelling by Israel near a hospital in Khan Younis late on December 27 claimed the lives of 20 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run&nbsp;health ministry.&nbsp;

Following the attack at al-Amal hospital, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society published a graphic video which showed blood splattered on street with rescue teams scrambling to identify the survivors.&nbsp;

The video, seen by WION, showed chaotic scenes amid pools of blood with others rushing to help the wounded.&nbsp;

<h2>UN asks Israel to 'end unlawful killings'</h2>

Meanwhile, the United Nations flagged the human rights situation in the West Bank and urged Israel to "end unlawful killings" against the Palestinian population in West Bank.&nbsp;

A report released on Thursday (Dec 28) demanded an immediate end to the use of military weapons during law enforcement operations as well as an end to arbitrary detention and ill-treatment of Palestinians, and the lifting of discriminatory movement restrictions.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: UN Security Council adopts resolution to increase Gaza aid

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"The use of military tactics and weapons in law enforcement contexts, the use of unnecessary or disproportionate force, and the enforcement of broad, arbitrary and discriminatory movement restrictions that affect Palestinians are extremely troubling," UN rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-un-says-several-killed-in-strikes-on-its-facility-in-gaza-657804">Israel-Hamas war: UN says several killed in strikes on its facility in Gaza</a>

"The intensity of the violence and repression is something that has not been seen in years."

The report looked at the human rights situation in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since October 7.

The bloodiest-ever war in Gaza erupted when Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7 and killed about 1200 people, mostly civilians.

They took 250 hostages, of whom 129 remain inside Gaza, according to Israeli officials, in the worst attack in the country's history.

Israel launched extensive aerial bombardment and a siege followed by a ground invasion. The campaign has killed at least 21,110 people, mostly women and children, claims Hamas-run Gaza'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)

The Israeli bombardment in Gaza after October 7 attack by Hamas continued for 83rd day with no scope for truce in sight. Shelling by Israel near a hospital in Khan Younis late on December 27 claimed the lives of 20 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

The Israeli bombardment in Gaza after October 7 attack by Hamas continued for 83rd day with no scope for truce in sight. Shelling by Israel near a hospital in Khan Younis late on December 27 claimed the lives of 20 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Following the attack at al-Amal hospital, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society published a graphic video which showed blood splattered on street with rescue teams scrambling to identify the survivors. The video, seen by WION, showed chaotic scenes amid pools of blood with others rushing to help the wounded. UN asks Israel to 'end unlawful killings' Meanwhile, the United Nations flagged the human rights situation in the West Bank and urged Israel to "end unlawful killings" against the Palestinian population in West Bank. A report released on Thursday (Dec 28) demanded an immediate end to the use of military weapons during law enforcement operations as well as an end to arbitrary detention and ill-treatment of Palestinians, and the lifting of discriminatory movement restrictions. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: UN Security Council adopts resolution to increase Gaza aid × "The use of military tactics and weapons in law enforcement contexts, the use of unnecessary or disproportionate force, and the enforcement of broad, arbitrary and discriminatory movement restrictions that affect Palestinians are extremely troubling," UN rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: UN says several killed in strikes on its facility in Gaza "The intensity of the violence and repression is something that has not been seen in years." The report looked at the human rights situation in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since October 7. The bloodiest-ever war in Gaza erupted when Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7 and killed about 1200 people, mostly civilians. They took 250 hostages, of whom 129 remain inside Gaza, according to Israeli officials, in the worst attack in the country's history. Israel launched extensive aerial bombardment and a siege followed by a ground invasion. The campaign has killed at least 21,110 people, mostly women and children, claims Hamas-run Gaza'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)

Israel-Hamas war: Several killed in strike near south Gaza hospital; UN asks Israel to ‘end unlawful killings’

Egypt has come out with a peace proposal plan to end the Israel-Hamas war, calling for a phased hostage release and the formation of a Palestinian government of experts to administer the Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank.

AP news agency on Monday (Dec 26) reported, citing a senior Egyptian official and a European diplomat familiar with the proposal, that the plan was worked out with the help of Qatar and presented to Israel, Hamas, the United States and European governments.

However, the report did not mention when the proposal was sent to the Israeli government.

Egypt and Qatar have been the mediators between Israel and Hamas, while the United States, a key power in the Gulf region, is a staunch ally of Tel Aviv.

<h2>Netanyahu reiterates plan to destroy Hamas&nbsp;</h2>

Though the Israeli government has so far not responded to the purported proposal, Netanyahu, in an opinion piece for the Wall Street Journal, asserted that his country's only goal is to destroy Hamas and “de-radicalise” Palestinians.

“Hamas must be destroyed, Gaza must be demilitarised, and Palestinian society must be deradicalized. These are the three prerequisites for peace between Israel and its Palestinian neighbours in Gaza,” he said.

“To achieve that goal, its military capabilities must be dismantled and its political rule over Gaza must end. Hamas’s leaders have vowed to repeat the Oct. 7 massacre ‘again and again’. That is why their destruction is the only proportional response to prevent the repeat of such horrific atrocities. Anything less guarantees more war and more bloodshed,” he added.

<h2>Bloodshed in Gaza&nbsp;</h2>

He further said that once Israel achieves its goal, &nbsp;“Gaza can be rebuilt and the prospects of a broader peace in the Middle East will become a reality.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-carries-out-retaliatory-attacks-in-iraq-after-militants-target-military-base-leaving-three-injured-673548">US retaliates in Iraq after attack on military base leaves 3 injured</a>

Meanwhile, the developments of a peace proposal come amidst Israel’s fresh airstrikes across Gaza before Christmas day that killed dozens of Palestinians, while Israel lost 17 troops in ground fighting in the north, centre and south of the territory.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-says-visited-gaza-vows-to-intensify-fighting-673432">Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu says visited Gaza, vows to 'intensify' fighting</a>

The war has devastated large parts of Gaza, killed more than 20,400 Palestinians and displaced almost all of the territory’s 2.3 million people.

(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.

Egypt has come out with a peace proposal plan to end the Israel-Hamas war, calling for a phased hostage release and the formation of a Palestinian government of experts to administer the Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank.

Egypt has come out with a peace proposal plan to end the Israel-Hamas war, calling for a phased hostage release and the formation of a Palestinian government of experts to administer the Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank. AP news agency on Monday (Dec 26) reported, citing a senior Egyptian official and a European diplomat familiar with the proposal, that the plan was worked out with the help of Qatar and presented to Israel, Hamas, the United States and European governments. However, the report did not mention when the proposal was sent to the Israeli government. Egypt and Qatar have been the mediators between Israel and Hamas, while the United States, a key power in the Gulf region, is a staunch ally of Tel Aviv. Netanyahu reiterates plan to destroy Hamas Though the Israeli government has so far not responded to the purported proposal, Netanyahu, in an opinion piece for the Wall Street Journal, asserted that his country's only goal is to destroy Hamas and “de-radicalise” Palestinians. “Hamas must be destroyed, Gaza must be demilitarised, and Palestinian society must be deradicalized. These are the three prerequisites for peace between Israel and its Palestinian neighbours in Gaza,” he said. “To achieve that goal, its military capabilities must be dismantled and its political rule over Gaza must end. Hamas’s leaders have vowed to repeat the Oct. 7 massacre ‘again and again’. That is why their destruction is the only proportional response to prevent the repeat of such horrific atrocities. Anything less guarantees more war and more bloodshed,” he added. Bloodshed in Gaza He further said that once Israel achieves its goal, “Gaza can be rebuilt and the prospects of a broader peace in the Middle East will become a reality.” Also read | US retaliates in Iraq after attack on military base leaves 3 injured Meanwhile, the developments of a peace proposal come amidst Israel’s fresh airstrikes across Gaza before Christmas day that killed dozens of Palestinians, while Israel lost 17 troops in ground fighting in the north, centre and south of the territory. Also read | Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu says visited Gaza, vows to 'intensify' fighting The war has devastated large parts of Gaza, killed more than 20,400 Palestinians and displaced almost all of the territory’s 2.3 million people. (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.

Egypt comes out with peace plan to end war, as Israel's Netanyahu hell-bent on destroying Hamas

From Gaza to Ukraine, the shadow of war looms large this Christmas season. In Bethlehem, in the land where Jesus was born, Christmas has been effectively cancelled. Watch this video for more.

Gravitas | Gaza to Ukraine: Heartbreak Christmas with blood, death and tears

Denmark's Maersk is preparing to resume shipping operations in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, the company said on Sunday, citing the deployment of a US-led military operation designed to ensure the safety of commerce in the area.

The shipping giant paused sending vessels through the Bab el-Mandeb strait earlier in December due to attacks against its ships that rendered the Suez Canal, which is key to global commerce, unusable for most routes.

The United States said on Tuesday it was launching a multinational operation to protect commerce in the Red Sea from Iran-backed Yemeni militants, who have been firing drones and missiles at international vessels since last month in what they say is a response to Israel's war in Gaza.

Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Egypt outlines proposal to free hostages &amp; end Israel-Hamas war

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"As of Sunday 24 December 2023, we have received confirmation that the previously announced multi-national security initiative Operation Prosperity Guardian (OPG) has now been set up and deployed to allow maritime commerce to pass through the Red Sea / Gulf of Aden and once again return to using the Suez Canal as a gateway between Asia and Europe," Masersk said in a statement on Sunday.

"With the OPG initiative in operation, we are preparing to allow for vessels to resume transit through the Red Sea both eastbound and westbound."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-six-killed-after-attacks-on-kherson-horlivka-moscow-will-be-defeated-says-zelensky-673397">Russia-Ukraine war: Six killed after attacks on Kherson, Horlivka; Moscow ‘will be defeated’, says Zelensky</a>

Maersk said it would release more details in coming days. But it said it could again resort to diverting ship traffic depending on how safety conditions evolved.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-six-killed-after-attacks-on-kherson-horlivka-moscow-will-be-defeated-says-zelensky-673397">Russia-Ukraine war: Six killed after attacks on Kherson, Horlivka; Moscow ‘will be defeated’, says Zelensky</a>

On Tuesday, Maersk said it was rerouting ships around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope. It said it would impose container surcharges for shipments from Asia to cover the extra costs associated with the longer journey.

Several other firms have stopped transiting the Red Sea on safety concerns in recent weeks, as has oil major BP.

Denmark's Maersk is preparing to resume shipping operations in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, the company said on Sunday, citing the deployment of a US-led military operation designed to ensure the safety of commerce in the area.

Denmark's Maersk is preparing to resume shipping operations in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, the company said on Sunday, citing the deployment of a US-led military operation designed to ensure the safety of commerce in the area. The shipping giant paused sending vessels through the Bab el-Mandeb strait earlier in December due to attacks against its ships that rendered the Suez Canal, which is key to global commerce, unusable for most routes. The United States said on Tuesday it was launching a multinational operation to protect commerce in the Red Sea from Iran-backed Yemeni militants, who have been firing drones and missiles at international vessels since last month in what they say is a response to Israel's war in Gaza. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Egypt outlines proposal to free hostages & end Israel-Hamas war × "As of Sunday 24 December 2023, we have received confirmation that the previously announced multi-national security initiative Operation Prosperity Guardian (OPG) has now been set up and deployed to allow maritime commerce to pass through the Red Sea / Gulf of Aden and once again return to using the Suez Canal as a gateway between Asia and Europe," Masersk said in a statement on Sunday. "With the OPG initiative in operation, we are preparing to allow for vessels to resume transit through the Red Sea both eastbound and westbound." Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: Six killed after attacks on Kherson, Horlivka; Moscow ‘will be defeated’, says Zelensky Maersk said it would release more details in coming days. But it said it could again resort to diverting ship traffic depending on how safety conditions evolved. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: Six killed after attacks on Kherson, Horlivka; Moscow ‘will be defeated’, says Zelensky On Tuesday, Maersk said it was rerouting ships around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope. It said it would impose container surcharges for shipments from Asia to cover the extra costs associated with the longer journey. Several other firms have stopped transiting the Red Sea on safety concerns in recent weeks, as has oil major BP.

After attacks by Yemeni militants, Maersk says will resume shipping in the Red Sea

Israeli officials confirmed the local media reports that Egypt has laid out a new proposal for a truce which includes the release of all Israelis held hostage in the Gaza Strip. Reports in the Israeli media indicate that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration has not rejected the proposal and that further negotiations may follow.

But PM Netanyahu said that Israel will keep fighting in Gaza until a complete victory over Hamas is achieved.

"This is the only way to destroy Hamas, bring our hostages back, and ensure that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel," Netanyahu said.&nbsp;

According to the Saudi news website Asharq cited by The Times of Israel, the Egyptian initiative is a plan to end hostilities and release all the remaining hostages&nbsp;in three stages.

<h2>Egypt's proposal for peace in Gaza: Reading into three stages</h2>

According to a report in The Times of Israel, the first stage would be a two-week halt in fighting, extendable to three or four, in exchange for the release of 40 hostages — women, minors and elderly men, especially sick ones.

In return, Israel would release 120 Palestinian prisoners of the 'same categories', the report added. During this time, hostilities would stop, Israeli tanks would withdraw, and humanitarian aid would enter Gaza, it said further.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Pope Francis prays for people suffering from war

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The second phase is an Egypt-sponsored “Palestinian national talk” to end the division between Palestinian factions — mainly the Palestinian Authority and the Hamas terror group — aiming to&nbsp;form a technocratic government in the West Bank and Gaza that would oversee the reconstruction of Gaza and pave the way for Palestinian parliamentary and presidential elections.

The third stage would include a comprehensive ceasefire&nbsp;and the release of the remaining Israeli hostages, including soldiers, in return for a to-be-determined number of Palestinian security prisoners in Israeli jails affiliated with Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad groups.&nbsp;

In this phase, Israel would withdraw its forces from cities in the Gaza Strip and would allow displaced Gazans from the blockaded Palestinian enclave’s north to return to their homes.

<h2>Egypt-led efforts to bring peace in Gaza: What is happening now?</h2>

Hamas politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh returned to Qatar on Saturday (Dec 23) after a four-day visit to Cairo to discuss the Egyptian proposal with the Hamas political bureau. On Sunday, a delegation of the Islamic Jihad arrived in Cairo for talks with Egyptian officials.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-feel-sad-bethlehem-the-birthplace-of-jesus-marks-sombre-christmas-celebration-with-vigil-amid-gaza-war-673157">‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war</a>

The Israel-Hamas war entered Day 79 on&nbsp;Christmas Eve of 2023. The war which began on October 7 when the Palestinian armed groups attacked southern Israel and killed about 1,200 Israelis, has resulted in an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip as Israel's retaliatory attacks have killed over 20,000 Palestinians so far.

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)

Israeli officials confirmed the local media reports that Egypt has laid out a new proposal for a truce which includes the release of all Israelis held hostage in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli officials confirmed the local media reports that Egypt has laid out a new proposal for a truce which includes the release of all Israelis held hostage in the Gaza Strip. Reports in the Israeli media indicate that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration has not rejected the proposal and that further negotiations may follow. But PM Netanyahu said that Israel will keep fighting in Gaza until a complete victory over Hamas is achieved. "This is the only way to destroy Hamas, bring our hostages back, and ensure that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel," Netanyahu said. According to the Saudi news website Asharq cited by The Times of Israel, the Egyptian initiative is a plan to end hostilities and release all the remaining hostages in three stages. Egypt's proposal for peace in Gaza: Reading into three stages According to a report in The Times of Israel, the first stage would be a two-week halt in fighting, extendable to three or four, in exchange for the release of 40 hostages — women, minors and elderly men, especially sick ones. In return, Israel would release 120 Palestinian prisoners of the 'same categories', the report added. During this time, hostilities would stop, Israeli tanks would withdraw, and humanitarian aid would enter Gaza, it said further. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Pope Francis prays for people suffering from war × The second phase is an Egypt-sponsored “Palestinian national talk” to end the division between Palestinian factions — mainly the Palestinian Authority and the Hamas terror group — aiming to form a technocratic government in the West Bank and Gaza that would oversee the reconstruction of Gaza and pave the way for Palestinian parliamentary and presidential elections. The third stage would include a comprehensive ceasefire and the release of the remaining Israeli hostages, including soldiers, in return for a to-be-determined number of Palestinian security prisoners in Israeli jails affiliated with Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad groups. In this phase, Israel would withdraw its forces from cities in the Gaza Strip and would allow displaced Gazans from the blockaded Palestinian enclave’s north to return to their homes. Egypt-led efforts to bring peace in Gaza: What is happening now? Hamas politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh returned to Qatar on Saturday (Dec 23) after a four-day visit to Cairo to discuss the Egyptian proposal with the Hamas political bureau. On Sunday, a delegation of the Islamic Jihad arrived in Cairo for talks with Egyptian officials. Also read | ‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war The Israel-Hamas war entered Day 79 on Christmas Eve of 2023. The war which began on October 7 when the Palestinian armed groups attacked southern Israel and killed about 1,200 Israelis, has resulted in an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip as Israel's retaliatory attacks have killed over 20,000 Palestinians so far. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Hopes of truce revived as Egypt proposes ambitious peace plan

The hopes of a truce between the state of Israel and the Palestinian armed group Hamas were revived after Egypt's latest ceasefire plan.&nbsp;The Indian Navy responded to the missile strike incident that occurred in the Arabian Sea on MT Chem Pluto on Saturday and diverted a maritime patrol aircraft operating in the area while undertaking routine surveillance. 
 
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-above-90-killed-in-israeli-strikes-on-two-gaza-houses-hundreds-detained-672992">Israel-Hamas war: Hopes of truce revived as Egypt proposes new ceasefire plan</a>

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Israel will keep fighting in Gaza until a complete victory over the Hamas terror group is achieved, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday amid reports of a 14-day ceasefire proposal by Egypt. 
 
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The Indian Navy, responding to the missile strike incident that occurred in the Arabian Sea on MT Chem Pluto on Saturday (Dec 23), diverted a maritime patrol aircraft operating in the area while undertaking routine surveillance.&nbsp; 
 
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India&nbsp;registered 656 new cases of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours with the total number of active cases now rising to 3,742, according to the data from the Indian health ministry. Meanwhile, the Indian state of Kerala during the same period reported 128 fresh COVID-19 infections and one death due to the disease. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-feel-sad-bethlehem-the-birthplace-of-jesus-marks-sombre-christmas-celebration-with-vigil-amid-gaza-war-673157">‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war</a>

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Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, Palestinian Christians held a sombre Christmas vigil in the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Saturday (Dec 23) where they once believed Jesus was born. This comes as Palestinians in the biblical place of Jesus Christ’s birth have this year decided to forego Christmas celebrations in solidarity with the Gazans as the war rages on.&nbsp;

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Sri Lanka's previous government led by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has been accused of orchestrating the Easter attacks of April 2019 by a whistleblower. The latest accusation over the cause of the attack in which six suicide bombers targeted churches and luxury hotels across the country was made in a documentary for Channel 4’s Dispatches. Sri Lanka's Easter bombings of 2019, the worst terrorist attack in the history of the South Asian island nation, killed 269 people and shook Sri Lanka from a peacetime limbo for the first time since the end of its civil war in 2009.

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Ancient humans from the Palaeolithic era in Western Europe may have followed the practice of chopping their fingers off to appease their deities, new research has found.

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Scientists have developed a wireless charging device that can be fitted under the skin to charge the bioelectronic devices in the body. The product has shown promising results when tested in rodents. If a similar level of success is seen in humans, it would mean medical implants can get rid of the clunky batteries and wiring that come with them.

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Hours after the Sports Ministry suspended the newly-formed Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) body on Sunday, the Centre asked the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to form an interim committee to oversee the wrestling-related activities in the country. The development came after questions were raised over several members of WFI sharing proximity with the former president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who was accused of sexual harassment by several top-flight grapplers. 
 
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The annual Mumbai Police event, Umang, was full of glitz and glamour as&nbsp;it hosted the who's who of Bollywood on a star-studded Saturday night. The red carpet saw a dazzling array of stars, from the Khans to the Kapoors, making it a night to remember.

The hopes of a truce between the state of Israel and the Palestinian armed group Hamas were revived after Egypt's latest ceasefire plan. The Indian Navy responded to the missile strike incident that occurred in the Arabian Sea on MT Chem Pluto on Saturday and diverted a maritime patrol aircraft operating in the area while undertaking routine surveillance.

The hopes of a truce between the state of Israel and the Palestinian armed group Hamas were revived after Egypt's latest ceasefire plan. The Indian Navy responded to the missile strike incident that occurred in the Arabian Sea on MT Chem Pluto on Saturday and diverted a maritime patrol aircraft operating in the area while undertaking routine surveillance. Click here to read more: Israel-Hamas war: Hopes of truce revived as Egypt proposes new ceasefire plan Israel will keep fighting in Gaza until a complete victory over the Hamas terror group is achieved, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday amid reports of a 14-day ceasefire proposal by Egypt. Indian Navy responds swiftly to maritime incident in Arabian Sea The Indian Navy, responding to the missile strike incident that occurred in the Arabian Sea on MT Chem Pluto on Saturday (Dec 23), diverted a maritime patrol aircraft operating in the area while undertaking routine surveillance. India logs 656 new COVID-19 cases, number of active cases rises to 3,742; Kerala reports one death India registered 656 new cases of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours with the total number of active cases now rising to 3,742, according to the data from the Indian health ministry. Meanwhile, the Indian state of Kerala during the same period reported 128 fresh COVID-19 infections and one death due to the disease. ‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war Amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in Gaza, Palestinian Christians held a sombre Christmas vigil in the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Saturday (Dec 23) where they once believed Jesus was born. This comes as Palestinians in the biblical place of Jesus Christ’s birth have this year decided to forego Christmas celebrations in solidarity with the Gazans as the war rages on. Explained | Did Sri Lanka's Rajapaksa orchestrate Easter bombings of 2019 for return to power? Sri Lanka's previous government led by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has been accused of orchestrating the Easter attacks of April 2019 by a whistleblower. The latest accusation over the cause of the attack in which six suicide bombers targeted churches and luxury hotels across the country was made in a documentary for Channel 4’s Dispatches. Sri Lanka's Easter bombings of 2019, the worst terrorist attack in the history of the South Asian island nation, killed 269 people and shook Sri Lanka from a peacetime limbo for the first time since the end of its civil war in 2009. Ancient humans in Europe would chop their fingers off to appease deities: Study Ancient humans from the Palaeolithic era in Western Europe may have followed the practice of chopping their fingers off to appease their deities, new research has found. Scientists develop wireless charger that can be fitted inside human body, dissolve later Scientists have developed a wireless charging device that can be fitted under the skin to charge the bioelectronic devices in the body. The product has shown promising results when tested in rodents. If a similar level of success is seen in humans, it would mean medical implants can get rid of the clunky batteries and wiring that come with them. Centre asks Indian Olympic Association to form interim committee to oversee wrestling activities Hours after the Sports Ministry suspended the newly-formed Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) body on Sunday, the Centre asked the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to form an interim committee to oversee the wrestling-related activities in the country. The development came after questions were raised over several members of WFI sharing proximity with the former president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who was accused of sexual harassment by several top-flight grapplers. SRK, Salman Khan, Deepika Padukone: B-town lights up Umang 2023 hosted by Mumbai Police The annual Mumbai Police event, Umang, was full of glitz and glamour as it hosted the who's who of Bollywood on a star-studded Saturday night. The red carpet saw a dazzling array of stars, from the Khans to the Kapoors, making it a night to remember.

Top 10 world news: Gaza truce hopes revived, Indian Navy responds to maritime incident in Red Sea, and more

Gaza officials on Saturday (Dec 23) said that the Israeli strikes had claimed the lives of more than 200 people in 24 hours amidst an upsurge in attacks in the West Bank.

Israel continued with its counter-offensive aiming at the southern Gaza Strip, with clouds of grey and black smoke rising over Khan Yunis city, as per news agency AFP reports.

In the past 24 hours, at least 201 deaths were reported by the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, taking the toll to 20,258 since the war broke out, and most of the victims were women and children as per claims by Hamas.

The fighting between the two sides began when the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, killing about 1,140 Israelis, mostly civilians.

Israel, in response, launched retaliatory attacks vowing to destroy the Palestinian militant group.

Saturday's strikes came after the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution demanding "immediate, safe and unhindered" deliveries of life-saving aid to Gaza "at scale".&nbsp;

It also called for the creation of "conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities", but did not seek an immediate end to combat.

The Gaza health ministry said dozens of Palestinians were killed this week and publicly "executed" in northern Gaza.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-warring-parties-commit-to-new-ceasefire-agree-to-un-led-peace-process-672932">Yemen's warring parties commit to new ceasefire, agree to UN-led peace process</a>

The Israeli "massacre resulted in the death of dozens" of people in Jabalia camp and Jabalia town, ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said.

<h2>Five soldiers killed in Gaza since Friday&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, the Israeli military said that five of its soldiers lost their lives in the fighting since Friday (Dec 22).

The army said in a statement that four of its soldiers were killed on Friday, whereas a fifth was killed on Saturday in the Palestinian territory's north.

This brought the number of troops killed inside the Gaza Strip to 144 since the start of Israel's large-scale ground offensive on October 27.

<h2>UN resolution urges more aid</h2>

On the other hand, members of the UN Security Council, late on Friday passed a resolution demanding "immediate, safe and unhindered" deliveries of life-saving aid be rushed to Gaza "at scale".

Israel has said Gaza crossings under its control were closed for aid deliveries on Saturday&nbsp;"in line with the agreement reached with the US, Egypt and the UN", leaving only the Rafah crossing on the Egyptian border open.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Gaza officials on Saturday (Dec 23) said that the Israeli strikes had claimed the lives of more than 200 people in 24 hours amidst an upsurge in attacks in the West Bank.

Gaza officials on Saturday (Dec 23) said that the Israeli strikes had claimed the lives of more than 200 people in 24 hours amidst an upsurge in attacks in the West Bank. Israel continued with its counter-offensive aiming at the southern Gaza Strip, with clouds of grey and black smoke rising over Khan Yunis city, as per news agency AFP reports. In the past 24 hours, at least 201 deaths were reported by the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, taking the toll to 20,258 since the war broke out, and most of the victims were women and children as per claims by Hamas. The fighting between the two sides began when the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, killing about 1,140 Israelis, mostly civilians. Israel, in response, launched retaliatory attacks vowing to destroy the Palestinian militant group. Saturday's strikes came after the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution demanding "immediate, safe and unhindered" deliveries of life-saving aid to Gaza "at scale". It also called for the creation of "conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities", but did not seek an immediate end to combat. The Gaza health ministry said dozens of Palestinians were killed this week and publicly "executed" in northern Gaza. Also read: Yemen's warring parties commit to new ceasefire, agree to UN-led peace process The Israeli "massacre resulted in the death of dozens" of people in Jabalia camp and Jabalia town, ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said. Five soldiers killed in Gaza since Friday Meanwhile, the Israeli military said that five of its soldiers lost their lives in the fighting since Friday (Dec 22). The army said in a statement that four of its soldiers were killed on Friday, whereas a fifth was killed on Saturday in the Palestinian territory's north. This brought the number of troops killed inside the Gaza Strip to 144 since the start of Israel's large-scale ground offensive on October 27. UN resolution urges more aid On the other hand, members of the UN Security Council, late on Friday passed a resolution demanding "immediate, safe and unhindered" deliveries of life-saving aid be rushed to Gaza "at scale". Israel has said Gaza crossings under its control were closed for aid deliveries on Saturday "in line with the agreement reached with the US, Egypt and the UN", leaving only the Rafah crossing on the Egyptian border open. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israeli strikes on Gaza killed 200 in 24 hours, claims Hamas

The Israeli military announced on Wednesday that it had located a significant Hamas command center in the center of Gaza City, dealing the Islamic militant organization what it called a severe blow as pressure mounted on Israel to reduce its catastrophic military campaign in the coastal territory.

Israel-Hamas war: Gaza City cease-fire talks gain momentum but IDF continues heavt attack on Gaza

Israeli forces uncovered a network of tunnels running deep beneath central Gaza City from properties registered to Yahya Sinwar and other senior Hamas organizers of the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, the military said on Wednesday.

Israel-Hamas war: IDF ‘almost catches’ Yahya Sinwar | Tunnels from Hamas leaders' homes found by IDF

Malaysia on Wednesday (Dec 20) imposed a ban on Israeli-flagged cargo ships from docking at its ports in response to the ongoing war in Gaza.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim himself announced the decision, singling out ZIM, Israel’s largest shipping firm.

The PM added that the ships on their way to Israel will also be barred from loading cargo at the Malaysian ports.

The decision has further raised concerns regarding the impact of the Israel-Hamas war on global shipping amidst increasing attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea by the Iran-backed Houthi group.

<h2>Anwar Ibrahim’s statement</h2>

The Malaysian PM said that the action was being taken in response to what he said “Israel’s actions that ignore basic humanitarian principles and violate international law through the ongoing massacre and brutality against Palestinians”.

Malaysia “also decided to no longer accept ships using the Israeli flag to dock in the country” and ban “any ship on its way to Israel from loading cargo in Malaysian ports”.

“Both of these restrictions are effective immediately,” the prime minister said.

<h2>Malaysia’s relations with Hamas and Israel</h2>

The Muslim-majority Southeast Asian nation doesn’t maintain a diplomatic relationship with Israel.

Malaysia has always advocated for the two-state solution and backed Hamas quite vocally.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: CIA director meets Mossad chief, Qatar PM

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So far, Malaysia has donated millions of dollars in aid to Gaza and condemned the Israeli response in the aftermath of the Oct 7 attack.

<h2>Disruption to global shipping</h2>

The move comes even as major disruptions to global shipping routes are already taking place, especially in the Red Sea where the Iran-backed Houthi group has launched several attacks on ships en route to Israel.

The Red Sea, which is linked to the Mediterranean by the Suez Canal, is responsible for 12 per cent of the global shipping transit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-israel-will-fight-until-complete-victory-says-netanyahu-670416">Also read:&nbsp;Biggest Hamas tunnel with 4km long network found under Gaza, claims Israel</a>

To evade the Houthi attackers, ships passing through the Red Sea often switch off tracking systems, while some are trying to reroute and adjust prices.

The US earlier this week announced the formation of a multinational coalition to counter the Houthi menace in the Red Sea. 
 
The coalition includes the United States, United Kingdom, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain.

(With inputs from agencies)

Malaysia on Wednesday (Dec 20) imposed a ban on Israeli-flagged cargo ships from docking at its ports in response to the ongoing war in Gaza. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim himself announced the decision, singling out ZIM, Israel’s largest shipping firm.

Malaysia on Wednesday (Dec 20) imposed a ban on Israeli-flagged cargo ships from docking at its ports in response to the ongoing war in Gaza. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim himself announced the decision, singling out ZIM, Israel’s largest shipping firm. The PM added that the ships on their way to Israel will also be barred from loading cargo at the Malaysian ports. The decision has further raised concerns regarding the impact of the Israel-Hamas war on global shipping amidst increasing attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea by the Iran-backed Houthi group. Anwar Ibrahim’s statement The Malaysian PM said that the action was being taken in response to what he said “Israel’s actions that ignore basic humanitarian principles and violate international law through the ongoing massacre and brutality against Palestinians”. Malaysia “also decided to no longer accept ships using the Israeli flag to dock in the country” and ban “any ship on its way to Israel from loading cargo in Malaysian ports”. “Both of these restrictions are effective immediately,” the prime minister said. Malaysia’s relations with Hamas and Israel The Muslim-majority Southeast Asian nation doesn’t maintain a diplomatic relationship with Israel. Malaysia has always advocated for the two-state solution and backed Hamas quite vocally. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: CIA director meets Mossad chief, Qatar PM × So far, Malaysia has donated millions of dollars in aid to Gaza and condemned the Israeli response in the aftermath of the Oct 7 attack. Disruption to global shipping The move comes even as major disruptions to global shipping routes are already taking place, especially in the Red Sea where the Iran-backed Houthi group has launched several attacks on ships en route to Israel. The Red Sea, which is linked to the Mediterranean by the Suez Canal, is responsible for 12 per cent of the global shipping transit. Also read: Biggest Hamas tunnel with 4km long network found under Gaza, claims Israel To evade the Houthi attackers, ships passing through the Red Sea often switch off tracking systems, while some are trying to reroute and adjust prices. The US earlier this week announced the formation of a multinational coalition to counter the Houthi menace in the Red Sea. The coalition includes the United States, United Kingdom, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Malaysia bans Israeli-flagged cargo ships from its ports 

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