US President Donald Trump floated a plan to "just clean out" Gaza, and said he wants Egypt and Jordan to take Palestinians from the territory in a bid to create Middle East peace. Watch this report for more details!

Gaza Ceasefire: Donald Trump floats plan to 'clean out' Gaza

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that the Gaza based Hamas militant group will release six hostages this week. Watch this report for more details!

Gaza ceasefire: Israel, Hamas solve dispute over hostages

Tensions between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas have escalated, challenging the fragile ceasefire agreement between the two sides. Israel has accused Hamas of breaching the truce on two occasions, reigniting concerns about the deal&rsquo;s stability.
The ceasefire, which came into effect a week ago, has already facilitated the release of seven hostages and several Palestinian prisoners. However, Israeli officials have frequently described the arrangement as a &ldquo;framework&rdquo; rather than a formal agreement.
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<h2>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&nbsp;accuses Hamas of committing violations </h2>
On Sunday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/benjamin-netanyahu" rel="dofollow">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's</a> office issued a statement accusing Hamas of failing to fulfil its commitments during the second phase of the prisoner exchange on Saturday. &ldquo;Hamas committed two violations yesterday during the implementation of the swap. Arbel Yehud, a civilian hostage scheduled for release on Saturday, has not been freed, and a detailed list of all hostages&rsquo; statuses has not been provided,&rdquo; the statement read, according to AFP.
As a response to these alleged violations, Israel blocked the movement of Gazan civilians returning north through the Netzarim Corridor, a step that was supposed to occur on Saturday under the terms of the agreement.
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Further complicating matters, it emerged that Yehud is not in Hamas&rsquo;s custody. A senior member of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), another militant group in Gaza, informed CNN that they were holding Yehud and planned to release her as part of the prisoner exchange.
The ongoing disagreement over the hostage situation has delayed the return of hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza.
Both sides have accused each other of failing to uphold their obligations, casting doubt on the durability of the ceasefire, which took over 15 months to negotiate.
Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-news-today-joins-germany-afd-rally-germans-to-move-beyond-past-guilt-amid-nazi-salute-controversy-8654678">US President Donald Trump</a> announced the release of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel, which had been placed on hold by President Joe Biden. Speaking aboard Air Force One on Saturday, Trump stated, &ldquo;We released them. We released them today. And they&rsquo;ll have them. They paid for them and they&rsquo;ve been waiting for them for a long time.&rdquo;
The hold on the delivery had been imposed over concerns about the bombs&rsquo; potential impact on Gaza&rsquo;s civilian population, particularly in the Rafah region. When asked about the decision to release the weapons, Trump said, &ldquo;Because they bought them.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas of failing to fulfil its commitments during the second phase of the prisoner exchange.

Tensions between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas have escalated, challenging the fragile ceasefire agreement between the two sides. Israel has accused Hamas of breaching the truce on two occasions, reigniting concerns about the deal’s stability. The ceasefire, which came into effect a week ago, has already facilitated the release of seven hostages and several Palestinian prisoners. However, Israeli officials have frequently described the arrangement as a “framework” rather than a formal agreement. Also read: UK's Home Secretary warns tech giants of a 'second Southport' if extreme content isn't removed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accuses Hamas of committing violations On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office issued a statement accusing Hamas of failing to fulfil its commitments during the second phase of the prisoner exchange on Saturday. “Hamas committed two violations yesterday during the implementation of the swap. Arbel Yehud, a civilian hostage scheduled for release on Saturday, has not been freed, and a detailed list of all hostages’ statuses has not been provided,” the statement read, according to AFP. As a response to these alleged violations, Israel blocked the movement of Gazan civilians returning north through the Netzarim Corridor, a step that was supposed to occur on Saturday under the terms of the agreement. Also read: Trump says UK PM Starmer is doing 'very good job' despite 'first buddy' Elon Musk's criticism Further complicating matters, it emerged that Yehud is not in Hamas’s custody. A senior member of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), another militant group in Gaza, informed CNN that they were holding Yehud and planned to release her as part of the prisoner exchange. The ongoing disagreement over the hostage situation has delayed the return of hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza. Both sides have accused each other of failing to uphold their obligations, casting doubt on the durability of the ceasefire, which took over 15 months to negotiate. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump announced the release of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel, which had been placed on hold by President Joe Biden. Speaking aboard Air Force One on Saturday, Trump stated, “We released them. We released them today. And they’ll have them. They paid for them and they’ve been waiting for them for a long time.” The hold on the delivery had been imposed over concerns about the bombs’ potential impact on Gaza’s civilian population, particularly in the Rafah region. When asked about the decision to release the weapons, Trump said, “Because they bought them.” (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza ceasefire on shaky ground as Hamas, Israel trade blame over deal violations

Hamas on Saturday (Jan 25) handed over four women Israeli hostages slated for release to members of the International Committee of the Red Cross as part of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" rel="dofollow">Gaza ceasefire</a> and hostage deal.
The four hostages, all Israeli soldiers - Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-video-teen-israeli-hostage-held-in-gaza-urging-netanyahus-government-to-secure-release-8592575">Liri Albag</a>. "A short while ago, accompanied by IDF and ISA forces, the four returning hostages crossed the border into Israeli territory," the military said in a statement.
<figure class="image"><img alt="Four female Israeli hostages in military uniform on stage in Gaza City." src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1920x1080/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/25/7CpHLuvLzEpAEFFUjPqp.png" style="width: 1920px;">
<figcaption>Four female Israeli hostages in military uniform on stage in Gaza City. Photograph: (Reuters)</figcaption>
</figure>
They will be taken to an IDF facility near the Gaza border for medical checkups. Afterwards, they will be moved to a hospital where they will meet their families for the first time in 477 days.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6byfnep-zippgahy-12ed32ca">
🟡The IDF has completed its preparations to receive the hostages returning to Israel from Gaza. The returning hostages will receive medical care and personal support at established and prepared initial reception points. Afterward, they will be transferred to hospitals and&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/Q9JoUsY5no">pic.twitter.com/Q9JoUsY5no</a>
&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1883046615990120649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
The soldiers were members of an all-female surveillance unit stationed near Nahal Oz on the Gaza border, and were responsible for monitoring activity in the area when they were taken hostage during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hamas" rel="dofollow">Hamas</a> terror attack of 7 October 2023.
<h2>Here's what we know about the released soldiers:</h2>
Karina Ariev, 20: On 7 October 2023, Ariev texted her family, &ldquo;If I don&rsquo;t live, take care of Mom and Dad all their lives. Don&rsquo;t give up. Live.&rdquo; Her family describes her as someone who enjoys cooking, singing, dancing, and writing poetry. A video released by Hamas last year showed Ariev and her colleague, Daniella Gilboa, requesting their freedom.
Daniella Gilboa, 20: Daniella&rsquo;s name was originally Danielle, but her parents changed it after her abduction, following a Jewish tradition that a name change could influence fate. In videos from her kidnapping, Gilboa appeared injured, with a foot wound, as militants forced her into a vehicle bound for Gaza.
Naama Levy, 20: Levy, a soldier and triathlete, was seen in a widely circulated video from 7 October, wearing blood-stained grey sweatpants while being taken from her base.&nbsp;
Liri Albag, 19: The youngest of the group, Albag, was seen in a video released by Hamas earlier this month during ceasefire negotiations.
The first stage of the prisoner exchange was completed on Sunday (Jan 19), with Hamas releasing three Israeli civilian hostages while Israel freed 90 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-names-of-four-hostages-to-be-released-on-jan-25-8651144">Palestinian prisoners</a>.
As part of the ceasefire deal, Hamas is set to release 33 hostages during the first phase, including women, children, the elderly, and individuals in poor health.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: Four soldiers, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag, will be taken to an IDF facility near the Gaza border for medical checkups.

Hamas on Saturday (Jan 25) handed over four women Israeli hostages slated for release to members of the International Committee of the Red Cross as part of the Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal. The four hostages, all Israeli soldiers - Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy and Liri Albag. "A short while ago, accompanied by IDF and ISA forces, the four returning hostages crossed the border into Israeli territory," the military said in a statement. Four female Israeli hostages in military uniform on stage in Gaza City. Photograph: (Reuters) They will be taken to an IDF facility near the Gaza border for medical checkups. Afterwards, they will be moved to a hospital where they will meet their families for the first time in 477 days. 🟡The IDF has completed its preparations to receive the hostages returning to Israel from Gaza. The returning hostages will receive medical care and personal support at established and prepared initial reception points. Afterward, they will be transferred to hospitals and… pic.twitter.com/Q9JoUsY5no — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) January 25, 2025 The soldiers were members of an all-female surveillance unit stationed near Nahal Oz on the Gaza border, and were responsible for monitoring activity in the area when they were taken hostage during the Hamas terror attack of 7 October 2023. Here's what we know about the released soldiers: Karina Ariev, 20: On 7 October 2023, Ariev texted her family, “If I don’t live, take care of Mom and Dad all their lives. Don’t give up. Live.” Her family describes her as someone who enjoys cooking, singing, dancing, and writing poetry. A video released by Hamas last year showed Ariev and her colleague, Daniella Gilboa, requesting their freedom. Daniella Gilboa, 20: Daniella’s name was originally Danielle, but her parents changed it after her abduction, following a Jewish tradition that a name change could influence fate. In videos from her kidnapping, Gilboa appeared injured, with a foot wound, as militants forced her into a vehicle bound for Gaza. Naama Levy, 20: Levy, a soldier and triathlete, was seen in a widely circulated video from 7 October, wearing blood-stained grey sweatpants while being taken from her base. Liri Albag, 19: The youngest of the group, Albag, was seen in a video released by Hamas earlier this month during ceasefire negotiations. The first stage of the prisoner exchange was completed on Sunday (Jan 19), with Hamas releasing three Israeli civilian hostages while Israel freed 90 Palestinian prisoners. As part of the ceasefire deal, Hamas is set to release 33 hostages during the first phase, including women, children, the elderly, and individuals in poor health. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza ceasefire: Four female Israeli soldiers released in second hostage exchange between Israel and Hamas

The Israeli military continues its ‘Iron Wall’ operation in the West Bank, targeting militant groups and aiming to counter-terrorism. Watch in for more details!

Israel continues 'iron wall' operation in West Bank

The Israeli military chief Herzi Halevi after announcing his resignation over the failure to prevent the October 7th, 2023 attacks has called for an external probe to look into the Army's failures. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: IDF Chief Halevi seeks external probe into Oct 7 attack

As part of a demonstration against the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal, some right-wing activists in Israel staged a mock display of Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel's central city of Kfar Saba overnight on Thursday (Jan 23), Times of Israel reported.
The demonstrators used mannequins dressed up in clothes resembling Hamas operatives with military fatigues, green headbands and fake weapons standing atop a white pickup truck, similar to the ones which were driven across the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gaza</a> border into Israel.
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<h2>Three suspects detained</h2>
Israeli police have launched an investigation into the protest and detained three suspects on charges of &ldquo;disorderly conduct in a public place,&rdquo; as confirmed by authorities.
A small sign pasted on the back of the truck read, &ldquo;The display is for illustration purposes only!&rdquo; Times of Israel reported citing Walla news.
The demonstration left some residents alarmed. &ldquo;I was afraid they would kill me,&rdquo; one local told the outlet as per Times of Israel. 
&ldquo;I was so scared and I was sure that terrorists had entered Kfar Saba from Samaria (in the West Bank)," she added.
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The protest was intended to show opposition to the ceasefire-hostage exchange deal that took effect on Sunday morning. Under the agreement, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hamas" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Hamas</a> is set to release 33 Israeli hostages&mdash;both alive and deceased&mdash;over 42 days, while Israel will free nearly 2,000 Palestinian security detainees in return.
<h2>'Glimpse of what will happen'</h2>
Right-wing activist Ayelet Lash defended the protest in a post on X, claiming it was meant to offer &ldquo;a glimpse of what will happen if the State of Israel does not hurry to occupy Jenin, expel its terrorists, and establish a Jewish settlement there.&rdquo; Lash further warned that, without action, &ldquo;Nukhba terrorists will drag the girls of Kfar Saba to Jenin.&rdquo;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: Israeli police have launched an investigation into the protest and detained three suspects on charges of “disorderly conduct in a public place,” as confirmed by authorities.

As part of a demonstration against the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal, some right-wing activists in Israel staged a mock display of Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel's central city of Kfar Saba overnight on Thursday (Jan 23), Times of Israel reported. The demonstrators used mannequins dressed up in clothes resembling Hamas operatives with military fatigues, green headbands and fake weapons standing atop a white pickup truck, similar to the ones which were driven across the Gaza border into Israel. Also read: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio vows 'steadfast support' in call with Netanyahu Three suspects detained Israeli police have launched an investigation into the protest and detained three suspects on charges of “disorderly conduct in a public place,” as confirmed by authorities. A small sign pasted on the back of the truck read, “The display is for illustration purposes only!” Times of Israel reported citing Walla news. The demonstration left some residents alarmed. “I was afraid they would kill me,” one local told the outlet as per Times of Israel. “I was so scared and I was sure that terrorists had entered Kfar Saba from Samaria (in the West Bank)," she added. Also read: West Asia crisis: Houthi rebels release crew of Galaxy Leader after over a year; UN welcomes step The protest was intended to show opposition to the ceasefire-hostage exchange deal that took effect on Sunday morning. Under the agreement, Hamas is set to release 33 Israeli hostages—both alive and deceased—over 42 days, while Israel will free nearly 2,000 Palestinian security detainees in return. 'Glimpse of what will happen' Right-wing activist Ayelet Lash defended the protest in a post on X, claiming it was meant to offer “a glimpse of what will happen if the State of Israel does not hurry to occupy Jenin, expel its terrorists, and establish a Jewish settlement there.” Lash further warned that, without action, “Nukhba terrorists will drag the girls of Kfar Saba to Jenin.” Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

'I was so scared…': Fake Hamas attack staged in Israel to protest Gaza ceasefire stirs panic

At least 10 Palestinians have been killed and nearly 40 injured by Israeli forces during a major operation in the Jenin area of West Bank.

Do Netanyahu, Hamas need war to survive?

The Israeli army is continuing its military operation in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin. Watch this report for more details!

Israel conducts military operation in West Bank

The Palestinian health ministry in Ramallah on Tuesday (Jan 21) said that the Israeli military's ongoing raid on Jenin, a city in the West Bank, has claimed at least eight lives, an increase from an earlier figure of six, The Guardian reported. In response, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hamas" rel="dofollow">Hamas</a> has urged for intensified confrontations with Israel amid the military operation.
<h2>Operation aimed at eradicating terrorism</h2>
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the operation, conducted by the military, police, and the Shin Bet security agency, is aimed at &ldquo;eradicating terrorism&rdquo; in Jenin, which he described as a hub for Palestinian armed groups.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-chief-halevi-will-resign-over-failure-during-hamas-oct-7-attack-who-is-he-8641655">Gaza war: IDF Chief Halevi to step down over failure during Hamas' Oct 7 attack. Who is he?</a>
Referring to the mission as &ldquo;extensive and significant,&rdquo; he said, "On the directive of the Security Cabinet, the IDF, the ISA and the Israel Police have today begun an extensive and significant military operation to defeat terrorism in Jenin &ndash; 'Iron Wall'."
&ldquo;We are operating in a systematic and decisive way against the Iranian axis wherever it sends its arms, in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Judea and Samaria,&rdquo; Netanyahu said in a statement released by his office.
Jenin has been a focal point of Israeli military operations throughout Israel's 15-month-long war on Gaza. According to the Palestinian health ministry, over 800 individuals have lost their lives in Israeli raids since the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths.
The Jenin refugee camp houses about 14,000 residents, the majority of whom are descendants of Palestinians displaced from their land during the establishment of Israel in 1948.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-inauguration-heres-a-low-down-of-the-executive-orders-trump-signed-on-day-1-in-white-house-8640978">Donald Trump inauguration: Here's a low down of the executive orders Trump signed on Day 1 in White House</a>
<h2>Qatar Prime Minister says peace in Gaza hinges on "good faith" efforts by Israel and Hamas</h2>
Meanwhile, Qatar's Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, has stressed that peace in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gaza</a> hinges on "good faith" efforts by both Israel and Hamas. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, he said, "If they are embarking in this in good faith, this will last and hopefully will lead to phase two, will lead to a permanent ceasefire."
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: Gaza ceasefire: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the operation is aimed at “eradicating terrorism” in Jenin. 

The Palestinian health ministry in Ramallah on Tuesday (Jan 21) said that the Israeli military's ongoing raid on Jenin, a city in the West Bank, has claimed at least eight lives, an increase from an earlier figure of six, The Guardian reported. In response, Hamas has urged for intensified confrontations with Israel amid the military operation. Operation aimed at eradicating terrorism Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the operation, conducted by the military, police, and the Shin Bet security agency, is aimed at “eradicating terrorism” in Jenin, which he described as a hub for Palestinian armed groups. Also read: Gaza war: IDF Chief Halevi to step down over failure during Hamas' Oct 7 attack. Who is he? Referring to the mission as “extensive and significant,” he said, "On the directive of the Security Cabinet, the IDF, the ISA and the Israel Police have today begun an extensive and significant military operation to defeat terrorism in Jenin – 'Iron Wall'." “We are operating in a systematic and decisive way against the Iranian axis wherever it sends its arms, in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Judea and Samaria,” Netanyahu said in a statement released by his office. Jenin has been a focal point of Israeli military operations throughout Israel's 15-month-long war on Gaza. According to the Palestinian health ministry, over 800 individuals have lost their lives in Israeli raids since the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths. The Jenin refugee camp houses about 14,000 residents, the majority of whom are descendants of Palestinians displaced from their land during the establishment of Israel in 1948. Also read: Donald Trump inauguration: Here's a low down of the executive orders Trump signed on Day 1 in White House Qatar Prime Minister says peace in Gaza hinges on "good faith" efforts by Israel and Hamas Meanwhile, Qatar's Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, has stressed that peace in Gaza hinges on "good faith" efforts by both Israel and Hamas. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, he said, "If they are embarking in this in good faith, this will last and hopefully will lead to phase two, will lead to a permanent ceasefire." (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas calls for escalation of fighting after Israeli raid on Jenin; Netanyahu vows to 'eradicate terrorism'

Israel has released 90 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for three hostages set free by Hamas, according to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-welcomes-the-expected-release-of-emily-damari-from-gaza-as-family-prepares-for-reunion-8635531">Hamas</a> Prisoners Media Office. The released individuals include 69 women and 21 teenage boys. Of these, 76 were freed from the West Bank and 14 from Jerusalem. The youngest prisoner, Mahmoud Aliowat, is 15 years old.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guns-in-gaza-have-gone-silent-joe-biden-delivers-final-remark-on-gaza-ceasefire-as-us-president-8635721">'Guns in Gaza have gone silent': Joe Biden delivers final remark on Gaza ceasefire as US president</a>
Ahead of the release, Israeli police minibuses were seen stationed outside Ofer prison. Among the freed prisoners is Khalida Jarrar, 62, a prominent figure in the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), a leftist faction with an armed wing responsible for attacks on Israelis. Human Rights Watch, based in New York, described her repeated arrests as part of Israel&rsquo;s broader crackdown on nonviolent political dissent.
Dalal Khaseeb, 53, the sister of Saleh Arouri, a former deputy leader of Hamas who was killed in an Israeli strike in Beirut in January 2024, was also released. Additionally, Abla Abdelrasoul, 68, the wife of detained PFLP leader Ahmad Saadat, was among those freed. Saadat is serving a 30-year sentence for ordering the assassination of Israeli tourism minister Rehavam Ze&rsquo;evi in 2001.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-three-israeli-hostages-romi-gonen-emily-damari-doron-steinbrecher-handed-over-to-red-cross-israel-hamas-war-8635634">First three Israeli hostages released by Hamas after Gaza ceasefire: Where do&nbsp;they&nbsp;go&nbsp;next?</a>
Israel currently holds at least 10,000 Palestinian prisoners, according to the Commission of Detainees Affairs and the Palestinian Prisoners Society. This number includes 3,376 people held under administrative detention, where individuals are detained without public charges or trial. Among them are 95 children and 22 women.
<h2>Ceasefire agreement and hostage exchange</h2>
The highly anticipated ceasefire, to be implemented in three phases, began at 11:15 local time (9:15 GMT) on Sunday following a delay of nearly three hours after Hamas did not share the names of the Israeli hostages being released. Hamas attributed the delay to &ldquo;technical reasons&rdquo; but later revealed the names of the first three hostages to be released: Doron Steinbrecher, 31; Emily Damari, 28, a dual British-Israeli national; and Romi Gonen, 24.
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Each Israeli hostage will be released in exchange for 30 Palestinian prisoners. The initial phase of the agreement will see 33 of the remaining 98 hostages in Gaza being released over six weeks in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: The released individuals include 69 women and 21 teenage boys. Of these, 76 were freed from the West Bank and 14 from Jerusalem.

Israel has released 90 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for three hostages set free by Hamas, according to the Hamas Prisoners Media Office. The released individuals include 69 women and 21 teenage boys. Of these, 76 were freed from the West Bank and 14 from Jerusalem. The youngest prisoner, Mahmoud Aliowat, is 15 years old. Also read: 'Guns in Gaza have gone silent': Joe Biden delivers final remark on Gaza ceasefire as US president Ahead of the release, Israeli police minibuses were seen stationed outside Ofer prison. Among the freed prisoners is Khalida Jarrar, 62, a prominent figure in the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), a leftist faction with an armed wing responsible for attacks on Israelis. Human Rights Watch, based in New York, described her repeated arrests as part of Israel’s broader crackdown on nonviolent political dissent. Dalal Khaseeb, 53, the sister of Saleh Arouri, a former deputy leader of Hamas who was killed in an Israeli strike in Beirut in January 2024, was also released. Additionally, Abla Abdelrasoul, 68, the wife of detained PFLP leader Ahmad Saadat, was among those freed. Saadat is serving a 30-year sentence for ordering the assassination of Israeli tourism minister Rehavam Ze’evi in 2001. Also read: First three Israeli hostages released by Hamas after Gaza ceasefire: Where do they go next? Israel currently holds at least 10,000 Palestinian prisoners, according to the Commission of Detainees Affairs and the Palestinian Prisoners Society. This number includes 3,376 people held under administrative detention, where individuals are detained without public charges or trial. Among them are 95 children and 22 women. Ceasefire agreement and hostage exchange The highly anticipated ceasefire, to be implemented in three phases, began at 11:15 local time (9:15 GMT) on Sunday following a delay of nearly three hours after Hamas did not share the names of the Israeli hostages being released. Hamas attributed the delay to “technical reasons” but later revealed the names of the first three hostages to be released: Doron Steinbrecher, 31; Emily Damari, 28, a dual British-Israeli national; and Romi Gonen, 24. Also read: 'First Obama, then Biden': Russia accuses Democratic presidents of sabotaging US-Russia ties before Trump's return Each Israeli hostage will be released in exchange for 30 Palestinian prisoners. The initial phase of the agreement will see 33 of the remaining 98 hostages in Gaza being released over six weeks in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees. (With inputs from agencies)

Prominent figures among 90 Palestinians freed by Israel | Details

After much anticipation, the first three Israeli hostages being released were finally handed over to the Red Cross by Hamas on Sunday hours after the ceasefire came into effect, Reuters reported, citing local media.
The Red Cross has started transferring Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, and Doron Steinbrecher to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) in the Netzarim Corridor.
The IDF also confirmed that the three Israeli hostages were transferred to the Red Cross, and they were on their way toward IDF and ISA forces in Gaza.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m63s0197-msf5puub-v7rtku1d">
🟡 According to information received from the Red Cross, 3 Israeli hostages were transferred to the Red Cross and they are on their way toward IDF and ISA forces in Gaza.
&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1880997575303770231?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
<h2>What will happen to the hostages when they are handed over?</h2>
The IDF has confirmed that Israeli Air Force helicopters are prepared to transport the three Israeli hostages. After undergoing an initial medical checkup at a military facility near the border, they will be flown to hospitals. Personal items sent by their families are already placed inside the helicopters, as per the IDF.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-romi-gonen-emily-damari-doron-steinbrecher-first-israeli-hostages-set-to-be-freed-under-gaza-ceasefire-8635098">Who are Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, &amp; Doron Steinbrecher? First Israeli hostages set to be freed under Gaza ceasefire</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m63qkh3e-r17w30vc-w2jrxln4">
Exclusive images of IAF helicopters prepared for the process of receiving the hostages from Gaza 🎗️🇮🇱 📸<a href="https://twitter.com/IDF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDF</a> <a href="https://t.co/mWUUKfdtdO">pic.twitter.com/mWUUKfdtdO</a>
&mdash; Israel ישראל (@Israel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel/status/1880983047442669845?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
The Times of Israel&nbsp;reported that the IDF has asked the mothers of the three hostages to meet at a base near the Gaza border. From there, they will accompany their daughters to the hospital.
Meanwhile, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum in Israel has encouraged the public to gather at Tel Aviv&rsquo;s Hostages Square to show their support. The forum has invited people to assemble from 4:00 PM local time.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-welcomes-the-expected-release-of-emily-damari-from-gaza-as-family-prepares-for-reunion-8635531">Family of British-Israeli hostage prepares for reunion, &lsquo;won&rsquo;t believe it until it happens&rsquo;</a>
&ldquo;Crowds of Israelis will come to be together at Hostages Square, to support the families of the hostages and to watch the historic and emotional moments that will be projected on the giant screen,&rdquo; the forum said.
<h2>Here are all recent developments since Gaza ceasefire came into effect</h2>
The long-awaited ceasefire, which is divided into three phases, began at 11:15 local time (9:15 GMT) following a nearly three-hour delay after Hamas did not share the names of the Israeli hostages being released. Hamas cited &ldquo;technical reasons&rdquo; for the delay. Later, Hamas released the names of the first three hostages to be freed: Doron Steinbrecher, 31; Emily Damari, 28, a dual British-Israeli citizen; and Romi Gonen, 24. Steinbrecher and Damari were abducted from their kibbutz, while Gonen was taken from the Supernova Festival in October 2023.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-far-right-minister-ben-gvirs-party-quits-ruling-coalition-8634790">Israeli PM Netanyahu's ally Ben Gvir quits government over 'scandalous' Gaza ceasefire</a>
Each of the three hostages will be exchanged for 30 Palestinian prisoners. This marks the first stage of a broader agreement, under which 33 of the remaining 98 hostages in Gaza will be freed over six weeks in exchange for almost 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.
As part of the humanitarian provisions included in the deal, several hundred aid trucks, including 20 carrying fuel, have started arriving at the Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing for proceeding into Gaza. Reports also indicate that Israeli forces have started withdrawing from areas in Gaza&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-announcement-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-a-look-at-the-key-events-of-the-war-8626882">Rafah</a> region to the Philadelphi corridor along the border between Egypt and Gaza.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World, Middle East: IDF said that Israeli Air Force helicopters are prepared to transport the three Israeli hostages: Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, and Doron Steinbrecher. 

After much anticipation, the first three Israeli hostages being released were finally handed over to the Red Cross by Hamas on Sunday hours after the ceasefire came into effect, Reuters reported, citing local media. The Red Cross has started transferring Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, and Doron Steinbrecher to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) in the Netzarim Corridor. The IDF also confirmed that the three Israeli hostages were transferred to the Red Cross, and they were on their way toward IDF and ISA forces in Gaza. 🟡 According to information received from the Red Cross, 3 Israeli hostages were transferred to the Red Cross and they are on their way toward IDF and ISA forces in Gaza. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) January 19, 2025 What will happen to the hostages when they are handed over? The IDF has confirmed that Israeli Air Force helicopters are prepared to transport the three Israeli hostages. After undergoing an initial medical checkup at a military facility near the border, they will be flown to hospitals. Personal items sent by their families are already placed inside the helicopters, as per the IDF. Also read: Who are Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, & Doron Steinbrecher? First Israeli hostages set to be freed under Gaza ceasefire Exclusive images of IAF helicopters prepared for the process of receiving the hostages from Gaza 🎗️🇮🇱 📸@IDF pic.twitter.com/mWUUKfdtdO — Israel ישראל (@Israel) January 19, 2025 The Times of Israel reported that the IDF has asked the mothers of the three hostages to meet at a base near the Gaza border. From there, they will accompany their daughters to the hospital. Meanwhile, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum in Israel has encouraged the public to gather at Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square to show their support. The forum has invited people to assemble from 4:00 PM local time. Also read: Family of British-Israeli hostage prepares for reunion, ‘won’t believe it until it happens’ “Crowds of Israelis will come to be together at Hostages Square, to support the families of the hostages and to watch the historic and emotional moments that will be projected on the giant screen,” the forum said. Here are all recent developments since Gaza ceasefire came into effect The long-awaited ceasefire, which is divided into three phases, began at 11:15 local time (9:15 GMT) following a nearly three-hour delay after Hamas did not share the names of the Israeli hostages being released. Hamas cited “technical reasons” for the delay. Later, Hamas released the names of the first three hostages to be freed: Doron Steinbrecher, 31; Emily Damari, 28, a dual British-Israeli citizen; and Romi Gonen, 24. Steinbrecher and Damari were abducted from their kibbutz, while Gonen was taken from the Supernova Festival in October 2023. Also read: Israeli PM Netanyahu's ally Ben Gvir quits government over 'scandalous' Gaza ceasefire Each of the three hostages will be exchanged for 30 Palestinian prisoners. This marks the first stage of a broader agreement, under which 33 of the remaining 98 hostages in Gaza will be freed over six weeks in exchange for almost 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees. As part of the humanitarian provisions included in the deal, several hundred aid trucks, including 20 carrying fuel, have started arriving at the Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing for proceeding into Gaza. Reports also indicate that Israeli forces have started withdrawing from areas in Gaza’s Rafah region to the Philadelphi corridor along the border between Egypt and Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

First three Israeli hostages released by Hamas after Gaza ceasefire: Where do they go next?

A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into effect on Sunday at 11:15 local time (9:15 GMT). The truce was delayed by approximately three hours, during which Israeli strikes resulted in the deaths of at least 19 Palestinians.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-comes-into-effect-after-hamas-releases-names-of-hostages-8634908">Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Live: Qatar confirms Gaza truce has begun as Hamas names hostages who will be freed</a>
Meet the first three Israeli hostages freed under Gaza ceasefire
<h2>Romi Gonen</h2>
Romi Gonen is one of the three hostages slated for release. Her brother, Shahaf, confirmed the news on Instagram, writing, &ldquo;She is on the list. It&rsquo;s official. Good luck to us all,&rdquo; as reported by the Times of Israel.
Gonen was 23 when Hamas captured her from the Nova Music Festival on 7 October 2023 after being shot by militants. Speaking to her mother during the attack, she said, &ldquo;They shot me, Mom, and I&rsquo;m bleeding. Everyone in the car is bleeding,&rdquo; according to The Jerusalem Post. Three of her friends who were with her that day were killed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-far-right-minister-ben-gvirs-party-quits-ruling-coalition-8634790">Israeli far-right minister Ben Gvir's party quits ruling coalition</a>
A previously released hostage informed her family that Gonen was alive but in poor condition. &ldquo;Her hand does not function. Her fingers are barely moving and are changing colours &mdash; and that was 10 weeks ago,&rdquo; her family told the Daily Mail.
<h2>Emily Damari</h2>
Emily Damari, a 28-year-old British-Israeli, was taken hostage during the 7 October Hamas attack. She was reportedly shot in the hand, blindfolded, and forced into her own car, which was then driven to Gaza, according to Sky News.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-deal-how-netanyahus-desire-to-stay-in-power-shaped-the-truce-and-hostage-release-agreement-with-hamas-8633951">Politics of survival: How Netanyahu's desire to stay in power shaped the Gaza&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;deal</a>
Damari was abducted from her apartment in Kfar Aza, along with 37 other residents of the kibbutz. A friend, Bar Kislev, told Israel&rsquo;s Channel 12 that she saw Damari&rsquo;s car being driven around the kibbutz on the morning of the attack, The Jerusalem Post reported.
<h2>Doron Steinbrecher</h2>
Doron Steinbrecher, an Israeli-Romanian dual national, turned 31 while in captivity. She was taken from Kfar Aza on 7 October 2023 while hiding under her bed, according to The Jerusalem Post. Her family has alleged that Hamas has not been providing her with the necessary medication and has raised the issue with the Red Cross.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-names-of-3-israeli-women-hostages-to-be-freed-sunday-8634774">Gaza ceasefire comes into effect after brief delay as Hamas releases list of hostages</a>
Steinbrecher&rsquo;s last message to her family was a voice note saying, &ldquo;They&rsquo;ve got me, they&rsquo;ve got me,&rdquo; her mother shared with the Financial Times. In January 2024, after 107 days in captivity, Hamas released a video showing Steinbrecher and two other hostages speaking from inside tunnels.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: Israel confirmed it had received the names of three hostages were released on the first day of the agreement’s implementation. This phase of the ceasefire is set to last 42 days.

A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into effect on Sunday at 11:15 local time (9:15 GMT). The truce was delayed by approximately three hours, during which Israeli strikes resulted in the deaths of at least 19 Palestinians. Also read: Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Live: Qatar confirms Gaza truce has begun as Hamas names hostages who will be freed Meet the first three Israeli hostages freed under Gaza ceasefire Romi Gonen Romi Gonen is one of the three hostages slated for release. Her brother, Shahaf, confirmed the news on Instagram, writing, “She is on the list. It’s official. Good luck to us all,” as reported by the Times of Israel. Gonen was 23 when Hamas captured her from the Nova Music Festival on 7 October 2023 after being shot by militants. Speaking to her mother during the attack, she said, “They shot me, Mom, and I’m bleeding. Everyone in the car is bleeding,” according to The Jerusalem Post. Three of her friends who were with her that day were killed. Also read: Israeli far-right minister Ben Gvir's party quits ruling coalition A previously released hostage informed her family that Gonen was alive but in poor condition. “Her hand does not function. Her fingers are barely moving and are changing colours — and that was 10 weeks ago,” her family told the Daily Mail. Emily Damari Emily Damari, a 28-year-old British-Israeli, was taken hostage during the 7 October Hamas attack. She was reportedly shot in the hand, blindfolded, and forced into her own car, which was then driven to Gaza, according to Sky News. Also read: Politics of survival: How Netanyahu's desire to stay in power shaped the Gaza ceasefire deal Damari was abducted from her apartment in Kfar Aza, along with 37 other residents of the kibbutz. A friend, Bar Kislev, told Israel’s Channel 12 that she saw Damari’s car being driven around the kibbutz on the morning of the attack, The Jerusalem Post reported. Doron Steinbrecher Doron Steinbrecher, an Israeli-Romanian dual national, turned 31 while in captivity. She was taken from Kfar Aza on 7 October 2023 while hiding under her bed, according to The Jerusalem Post. Her family has alleged that Hamas has not been providing her with the necessary medication and has raised the issue with the Red Cross. Also read: Gaza ceasefire comes into effect after brief delay as Hamas releases list of hostages Steinbrecher’s last message to her family was a voice note saying, “They’ve got me, they’ve got me,” her mother shared with the Financial Times. In January 2024, after 107 days in captivity, Hamas released a video showing Steinbrecher and two other hostages speaking from inside tunnels. (With inputs from agencies)

Who are Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, & Doron Steinbrecher? First Israeli hostages freed under Gaza ceasefire

Hamas has claimed to have released hostage list, whereas Israel hasn't confirmed receiving it yet. Hamas terror group has said in a statement that it will be releasing three women hostages.

Hamas: Names of 3 Israeli women hostages to be freed released

Gaza Ceasefire: Netanyahu Demands 'List' of Hostages to Be Freed Before Ceasefire

Gaza Ceasefire: Netanyahu demands 'list' of hostages to be freed before ceasefire

Israel has carried out fresh strikes in Gaza. IDF vowed to strike Gaza until the truce deal is sealed. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has said that the ceasefire will not start until Hamas delivers the hostage list.

Netanyahu says ceasefire will not start until Hamas releases hostage list

Israel-Hamas War: Israel carries out fresh strikes in Gaza

Outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday (Jan 19) criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for saying one thing in private and something different in public to maintain his coalition government.
<h2>Is Netanyahu putting political survival over the Gaza ceasefire?</h2>
Speaking to the New Yorker, Blinken was asked whether Netanyahu had been truthful in his discussions with the United States. Blinken replied, &ldquo;In the moment of those conversations, yes,&rdquo; followed by laughter. He added, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m laughing because given the incredibly complicated coalition politics that exist in Israel, he proceeds in many ways on the basis of what gets [him] to tomorrow and keeps [his] coalition together.&rdquo; Blinken said, &ldquo;He might say one thing to me, and then depending on the audience he&rsquo;s before next, maybe that takes a little bit of a different turn.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hours-before-gaza-ceasefire-netanyahu-warns-hamas-wont-move-forward-until-israel-receives-hostage-list-8633764" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Hours before Gaza ceasefire, Netanyahu warns Hamas 'won't move forward' until Israel receives&nbsp;hostage&nbsp;list</a>
Netanyahu&rsquo;s handling of recent developments regarding a ceasefire and hostage release deal with Hamas appears to validate Blinken&rsquo;s observation. 
<h2>Coalition pressure on the Gaza ceasefire deal</h2>
Members of Netanyahu&rsquo;s far-right coalition have expressed open opposition to the ceasefire, threatening to leave the government if the deal proceeds. For instance, the Religious Zionism Party said they would only continue supporting Netanyahu if he agreed to resume full military action against Hamas following the first phase of the agreement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-deal-5-prominent-names-among-737-palestinian-prisoners-to-be-freed-by-israel-zakaria-zubeidi-ahmed-barghouti-8633004" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">From Zakaria Zubeidi to Ahmed Barghouti: 5 Prominent names among 737 Palestinian prisoners to be freed by Israel</a>
Staying true to their warnings, the far-right Otzma Yehudit party announced their intention to resign from the coalition on Saturday (Jan 18) after the Israeli cabinet approved the agreement. In a statement, they declared their disapproval of the agreement, calling it &ldquo;reckless.&rdquo; The group&rsquo;s members, including ministers and committee chairs, said they would leave their posts, citing the government&rsquo;s approval of the ceasefire as the reason. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also condemned the deal, saying, &ldquo;I will not sit in a government that, God forbid, will stop the war and not continue until complete victory over Hamas.&rdquo;
<h2>Netanyahu&rsquo;s political balancing act</h2>
In a pre-recorded statement on Saturday (Jan 18) seemingly to manage his coalition&rsquo;s discontent, Netanyahu described the deal as a &ldquo;temporary ceasefire&rdquo; and assured that Israel could resume fighting if the terms were not met. He added that both US President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump had agreed that military action could resume if necessary. He added that they assured him that Israel would receive necessary military support from the United States. Netanyahu said, &ldquo;Israel will not rest until all of its war goals are completed,&rdquo; which includes ensuring the safe return of all hostages.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-deal-stalled-by-israels-netanyahu-hamas-denies-backtracking-claims-8627077" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Netanyahu stalls Gaza ceasefire deal until Hamas drops &lsquo;last-minute concessions&rsquo;; group denies backtracking</a>
However, this is not the first time Netanyahu&rsquo;s approach to the ceasefire has caused confusion. On 16 January, his office stated the cabinet would not approve the deal until Hamas conceded to &ldquo;last-minute conditions,&rdquo; a claim quickly refuted by Hamas. This contradiction came after key mediators, like Qatar and the US, confirmed the deal, and congratulations started pouring in from all over the world, with families of hostages celebrating the news of their return.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m62xq90o-w5p6a81x-tx1b1udu">
הצהרה מיוחדת ממני אליכם &gt;&gt; <a href="https://t.co/8CU2TOeOYn">pic.twitter.com/8CU2TOeOYn</a>
&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1880679572288725326?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Did global pressure force Netanyahu to finally approve the ceasefire?</h2>
Netanyahu also faced mounting pressure from international leaders, including US President-elect Donald Trump and key mediators like Qatar. Trump has reportedly been firm in his approach to the hostage agreement. During a phone interview with NBC News on Saturday (Jan 18), he said that the agreement &ldquo;better hold.&rdquo; When asked how confident he was about the release of hostages, Trump said, &ldquo;We&rsquo;re going to see very soon, and it better hold.&rdquo; He added that he had urged Netanyahu to do whatever was necessary to end the conflict while ensuring the agreement was upheld. &ldquo;Just keep doing what you have to do. This has to end,&rdquo; Trump said.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-gaza-truce-better-be-done-before-his-inauguration-us-president-elect-joe-biden-israel-hamas-war-8629062" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump says Gaza truce 'better be done' before his inauguration</a>
A Wall Street Journal report citing sources revealed that Trump&rsquo;s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, delivered a strong message to Netanyahu, pressing him to finalise the deal. According to sources, Witkoff told Netanyahu, &ldquo;The president has been a great friend of Israel, and now it&rsquo;s time to be a friend back.&rdquo; As per the same report, Trump's &ldquo;all hell to pay&rdquo; message warning of severe consequences if hostages were not freed before his inauguration on 20 January was meant for both Hamas and Israel.
<h2>Cautious optimism </h2>
As the first phase of the ceasefire begins, global attention is focused on how this development might shape the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The war has already claimed the lives of over 46,000 Palestinians, with health officials in Gaza saying that most of the victims were women and children. The Israeli military, meanwhile, reports 405 soldiers killed since the start of its invasion of Gaza.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: In a pre-recorded statement on Saturday (Jan 18) seemingly to manage his coalition’s discontent, Netanyahu described the deal as a “temporary ceasefire”

Outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday (Jan 19) criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for saying one thing in private and something different in public to maintain his coalition government. Is Netanyahu putting political survival over the Gaza ceasefire? Speaking to the New Yorker, Blinken was asked whether Netanyahu had been truthful in his discussions with the United States. Blinken replied, “In the moment of those conversations, yes,” followed by laughter. He added, “I’m laughing because given the incredibly complicated coalition politics that exist in Israel, he proceeds in many ways on the basis of what gets [him] to tomorrow and keeps [his] coalition together.” Blinken said, “He might say one thing to me, and then depending on the audience he’s before next, maybe that takes a little bit of a different turn.” Also read: Hours before Gaza ceasefire, Netanyahu warns Hamas 'won't move forward' until Israel receives hostage list Netanyahu’s handling of recent developments regarding a ceasefire and hostage release deal with Hamas appears to validate Blinken’s observation. Coalition pressure on the Gaza ceasefire deal Members of Netanyahu’s far-right coalition have expressed open opposition to the ceasefire, threatening to leave the government if the deal proceeds. For instance, the Religious Zionism Party said they would only continue supporting Netanyahu if he agreed to resume full military action against Hamas following the first phase of the agreement. Also read: From Zakaria Zubeidi to Ahmed Barghouti: 5 Prominent names among 737 Palestinian prisoners to be freed by Israel Staying true to their warnings, the far-right Otzma Yehudit party announced their intention to resign from the coalition on Saturday (Jan 18) after the Israeli cabinet approved the agreement. In a statement, they declared their disapproval of the agreement, calling it “reckless.” The group’s members, including ministers and committee chairs, said they would leave their posts, citing the government’s approval of the ceasefire as the reason. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also condemned the deal, saying, “I will not sit in a government that, God forbid, will stop the war and not continue until complete victory over Hamas.” Netanyahu’s political balancing act In a pre-recorded statement on Saturday (Jan 18) seemingly to manage his coalition’s discontent, Netanyahu described the deal as a “temporary ceasefire” and assured that Israel could resume fighting if the terms were not met. He added that both US President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump had agreed that military action could resume if necessary. He added that they assured him that Israel would receive necessary military support from the United States. Netanyahu said, “Israel will not rest until all of its war goals are completed,” which includes ensuring the safe return of all hostages. Also read: Netanyahu stalls Gaza ceasefire deal until Hamas drops ‘last-minute concessions’; group denies backtracking However, this is not the first time Netanyahu’s approach to the ceasefire has caused confusion. On 16 January, his office stated the cabinet would not approve the deal until Hamas conceded to “last-minute conditions,” a claim quickly refuted by Hamas. This contradiction came after key mediators, like Qatar and the US, confirmed the deal, and congratulations started pouring in from all over the world, with families of hostages celebrating the news of their return. הצהרה מיוחדת ממני אליכם >> pic.twitter.com/8CU2TOeOYn — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) January 18, 2025 Did global pressure force Netanyahu to finally approve the ceasefire? Netanyahu also faced mounting pressure from international leaders, including US President-elect Donald Trump and key mediators like Qatar. Trump has reportedly been firm in his approach to the hostage agreement. During a phone interview with NBC News on Saturday (Jan 18), he said that the agreement “better hold.” When asked how confident he was about the release of hostages, Trump said, “We’re going to see very soon, and it better hold.” He added that he had urged Netanyahu to do whatever was necessary to end the conflict while ensuring the agreement was upheld. “Just keep doing what you have to do. This has to end,” Trump said. Also read: Donald Trump says Gaza truce 'better be done' before his inauguration A Wall Street Journal report citing sources revealed that Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, delivered a strong message to Netanyahu, pressing him to finalise the deal. According to sources, Witkoff told Netanyahu, “The president has been a great friend of Israel, and now it’s time to be a friend back.” As per the same report, Trump's “all hell to pay” message warning of severe consequences if hostages were not freed before his inauguration on 20 January was meant for both Hamas and Israel. Cautious optimism As the first phase of the ceasefire begins, global attention is focused on how this development might shape the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The war has already claimed the lives of over 46,000 Palestinians, with health officials in Gaza saying that most of the victims were women and children. The Israeli military, meanwhile, reports 405 soldiers killed since the start of its invasion of Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

Politics of survival: How Netanyahu's desire to stay in power shaped the Gaza ceasefire deal

Hours before a ceasefire deal is set to take effect, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel has not yet received a list of hostages that Hamas plans to release, potentially delaying the agreement.
&ldquo;We will not move forward with the outline until we receive a list of the hostages to be freed, as agreed,&rdquo; Netanyahu said in a statement issued by his office.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-when-russians-hide-north-koreans-shoot-how-pyongyangs-troops-are-reshaping-8633581">'When Russians hide, North Koreans&nbsp;shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war</a>
He also warned, &ldquo;Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. The sole responsibility lies with Hamas.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m62i0q3v-ghdi1k9d-c8xd955r">
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: "We will be unable to move forward with the framework until we receive the list of the hostages who will be released, as was agreed. Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. Hamas is solely responsible."
&mdash; Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/1880663771255099703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
According to the agreement, Hamas is required to provide the names of the hostages at least 24 hours prior to their release. The release was initially scheduled for 4:00 PM local time.
The ceasefire in Gaza is expected to begin at 8:30 AM Gaza time (6:30 AM GMT) on Sunday, 19 January, as confirmed by a spokesperson for Qatar&rsquo;s foreign ministry. The agreement outlines a three-phase truce, starting with a six-week period during which hostages held by Hamas will be exchanged for prisoners detained in Israel.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-deal-5-prominent-names-among-737-palestinian-prisoners-to-be-freed-by-israel-zakaria-zubeidi-ahmed-barghouti-8633004">From Zakaria Zubeidi to Ahmed Barghouti: 5 Prominent names among 737 Palestinian prisoners to be freed by Israel</a>
<h2>How many Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners will be freed in the first phase?</h2>
During the initial phase, 33 out of the 98 remaining <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-42-day-first-phase">Israeli hostages</a> are set to be released. These include women, children, men over the age of 50, and individuals who are ill or injured, according to Reuters.
The Jerusalem Post, citing Army Radio, reported on Saturday that 25 of the 33 hostages expected to be freed in this phase are believed to still be alive.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-truce-to-take-effect-sunday-at-0630-gmt-israel-approves-list-of-737-detainees-to-be-released-hamas-israel-hamas-war-gaza-ceasefire-8632394">Gaza truce to take effect Sunday at 0630 GMT; Israel approves list of 737 detainees to be released</a>
In exchange, Israel will release nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Among those to be freed are 737 men, women, and teenagers, some of whom are affiliated with Palestinian militant groups and were convicted of attacks resulting in the deaths of numerous Israelis. The list also includes Palestinians from Gaza detained since the war began.
Details of the prisoners were published by the Israeli justice ministry on Saturday, alongside the ceasefire agreement. The deal specifies that 30 Palestinian prisoners will be released for every Israeli female hostage freed on Sunday.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: “We will not move forward with the outline until we receive a list of the hostages to be freed, as agreed,” Netanyahu said in a statement issued by his office.

Hours before a ceasefire deal is set to take effect, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel has not yet received a list of hostages that Hamas plans to release, potentially delaying the agreement. “We will not move forward with the outline until we receive a list of the hostages to be freed, as agreed,” Netanyahu said in a statement issued by his office. Also read: 'When Russians hide, North Koreans shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war He also warned, “Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. The sole responsibility lies with Hamas.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: "We will be unable to move forward with the framework until we receive the list of the hostages who will be released, as was agreed. Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. Hamas is solely responsible." — Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) January 18, 2025 According to the agreement, Hamas is required to provide the names of the hostages at least 24 hours prior to their release. The release was initially scheduled for 4:00 PM local time. The ceasefire in Gaza is expected to begin at 8:30 AM Gaza time (6:30 AM GMT) on Sunday, 19 January, as confirmed by a spokesperson for Qatar’s foreign ministry. The agreement outlines a three-phase truce, starting with a six-week period during which hostages held by Hamas will be exchanged for prisoners detained in Israel. Also read: From Zakaria Zubeidi to Ahmed Barghouti: 5 Prominent names among 737 Palestinian prisoners to be freed by Israel How many Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners will be freed in the first phase? During the initial phase, 33 out of the 98 remaining Israeli hostages are set to be released. These include women, children, men over the age of 50, and individuals who are ill or injured, according to Reuters. The Jerusalem Post, citing Army Radio, reported on Saturday that 25 of the 33 hostages expected to be freed in this phase are believed to still be alive. Also read: Gaza truce to take effect Sunday at 0630 GMT; Israel approves list of 737 detainees to be released In exchange, Israel will release nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Among those to be freed are 737 men, women, and teenagers, some of whom are affiliated with Palestinian militant groups and were convicted of attacks resulting in the deaths of numerous Israelis. The list also includes Palestinians from Gaza detained since the war began. Details of the prisoners were published by the Israeli justice ministry on Saturday, alongside the ceasefire agreement. The deal specifies that 30 Palestinian prisoners will be released for every Israeli female hostage freed on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

Hours before Gaza ceasefire, Netanyahu warns Hamas 'won't move forward' until Israel receives hostage list

Israel&rsquo;s justice ministry has confirmed that 737 Palestinian prisoners and detainees are set to be released as part of the initial phase of a truce deal. None of the prisoners will be freed before 4:00 pm local time on Sunday (Jan 18).
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&ldquo;The government has approved the hostage return plan,&rdquo; announced the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday following a cabinet vote. 
<h2>Prominent names on the list:</h2>
<h2>Zakaria Zubeidi</h2>
Zakaria Zubeidi, a former commander of Fatah&rsquo;s Al-Aqsa Martyrs&rsquo; Brigades in Jenin, is among those to be released. Zubeidi was part of the 2021 Gilboa Prison escape, during which six prisoners broke out of a high-security facility.
<h2>Mahmoud Atallah</h2>
Another detainee set for release is Mahmoud Atallah, who is serving a life sentence plus 15 years for murdering a Palestinian woman accused of collaborating with Israel. Atallah was also charged in September with the rape of a female prison guard in the &ldquo;prison pimping&rdquo; case.
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<h2>Ahmed Barghouti</h2>
Ahmed Barghouti, a close associate of Marwan Barghouti, will also be released. Marwan Barghouti is serving 13 life sentences, and Ahmed was arrested alongside him in 2002. As the operational commander of Fatah&rsquo;s Al-Aqsa Martyrs&rsquo; Brigades, Ahmed supplied weapons and was involved in orchestrating multiple fatal attacks. These include the 2002 bombing at Tel Aviv&rsquo;s &ldquo;Seafood Market&rdquo; restaurant, which left three Israelis dead and 30 injured, a February 2002 attack in Jerusalem&rsquo;s Neve Yaakov neighbourhood that killed a policewoman and injured nine, and a bombing on Jaffa Street in Jerusalem that claimed the lives of two women.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-truce-to-take-effect-sunday-at-0630-gmt-israel-approves-list-of-737-detainees-to-be-released-hamas-israel-hamas-war-gaza-ceasefire-8632394">Gaza truce to take effect Sunday at 0630 GMT; Israel approves list of 737 detainees to be released</a>
<h2>Wael Qassem and Wisam Abbasi</h2>
Also included in the release are Wael Qassem and Wisam Abbasi, members of the Hamas &ldquo;Silwan Cell.&rdquo; Both men were linked to bombings in the early 2000s that resulted in dozens of casualties. Their attacks included incidents at Caf&eacute; Moment in Jerusalem, the Sheffield Club in Rishon Lezion, and the Frank Sinatra Cafeteria at Hebrew University.
The Israel Prison Service said on Friday that it is taking measures to block public displays of celebration during the prisoners&rsquo; release. &ldquo;The commissioner of the Israel Prison Service, Kobi Yakobi, instructed that&hellip; to prevent public displays of joy in Ashkelon and other areas of Israel, the escort from &lsquo;Shikma&rsquo; Prison will not be handled by civilian buses of the [International Committee of the] Red Cross,&rdquo; the statement said.
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According to Majed Al Ansari, a spokesperson for Qatar&rsquo;s foreign ministry, the ceasefire is set to begin at 8:30 am local time on Sunday. This will mark the second ceasefire since the war started on 7 October 2023. 
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: The Gaza ceasefire is set to begin at 8:30 am local time on Sunday. This will mark the second ceasefire since the war started on 7 October 2023. 

Israel’s justice ministry has confirmed that 737 Palestinian prisoners and detainees are set to be released as part of the initial phase of a truce deal. None of the prisoners will be freed before 4:00 pm local time on Sunday (Jan 18). Also read: Video: Russia attacks Kyiv with ballistic missiles, drone, kills four “The government has approved the hostage return plan,” announced the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday following a cabinet vote. Prominent names on the list: Zakaria Zubeidi Zakaria Zubeidi, a former commander of Fatah’s Al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades in Jenin, is among those to be released. Zubeidi was part of the 2021 Gilboa Prison escape, during which six prisoners broke out of a high-security facility. Mahmoud Atallah Another detainee set for release is Mahmoud Atallah, who is serving a life sentence plus 15 years for murdering a Palestinian woman accused of collaborating with Israel. Atallah was also charged in September with the rape of a female prison guard in the “prison pimping” case. Also read: Sirens sound, blasts heard in Israel as projectiles launched from Yemen: Report Ahmed Barghouti Ahmed Barghouti, a close associate of Marwan Barghouti, will also be released. Marwan Barghouti is serving 13 life sentences, and Ahmed was arrested alongside him in 2002. As the operational commander of Fatah’s Al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades, Ahmed supplied weapons and was involved in orchestrating multiple fatal attacks. These include the 2002 bombing at Tel Aviv’s “Seafood Market” restaurant, which left three Israelis dead and 30 injured, a February 2002 attack in Jerusalem’s Neve Yaakov neighbourhood that killed a policewoman and injured nine, and a bombing on Jaffa Street in Jerusalem that claimed the lives of two women. Also read: Gaza truce to take effect Sunday at 0630 GMT; Israel approves list of 737 detainees to be released Wael Qassem and Wisam Abbasi Also included in the release are Wael Qassem and Wisam Abbasi, members of the Hamas “Silwan Cell.” Both men were linked to bombings in the early 2000s that resulted in dozens of casualties. Their attacks included incidents at Café Moment in Jerusalem, the Sheffield Club in Rishon Lezion, and the Frank Sinatra Cafeteria at Hebrew University. The Israel Prison Service said on Friday that it is taking measures to block public displays of celebration during the prisoners’ release. “The commissioner of the Israel Prison Service, Kobi Yakobi, instructed that… to prevent public displays of joy in Ashkelon and other areas of Israel, the escort from ‘Shikma’ Prison will not be handled by civilian buses of the [International Committee of the] Red Cross,” the statement said. Also read: UN announces new plan to counter the surge in antisemitism According to Majed Al Ansari, a spokesperson for Qatar’s foreign ministry, the ceasefire is set to begin at 8:30 am local time on Sunday. This will mark the second ceasefire since the war started on 7 October 2023. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

From Zakaria Zubeidi to Ahmed Barghouti: 5 Prominent names among 737 Palestinian prisoners to be freed by Israel

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that a deal to release hostages held in the Gaza Strip has been reached, two days after Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire to pause the 15-month-long fighting. Watch this report for more details!

Israel & Hamas sign hostage-ceasefire deal, cabinet to hold vote

Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir announced on Thursday that his far-right Otzma Yehudit party will withdraw from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ruling coalition if the cabinet approves the hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Ben Gvir says his party will quit if cabinet implements Gaza ceasefire deal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has convened a security cabinet meeting to hold a vote on the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli security cabinet to vote on Gaza ceasefire deal

The Israeli cabinet is scheduled to meet on Friday (Jan 17) to discuss and ratify the recently agreed ceasefire deal with Hamas, according to a report by ABC News citing a senior Israeli official.
Axios also reported, quoting an Israeli official, "The Israeli cabinet is expected to convene on Friday morning and approve the Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal."
During a briefing on Thursday, outgoing US Secretary of State <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-farewell-speech-how-when-and-where-to-watch-live-streaming-details-8624491">Antony Blinken</a> was asked about his confidence in the implementation of the ceasefire. &ldquo;On the ceasefire, I am confident,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I fully expect that implementation will begin &hellip; on Sunday,&rdquo; he added.
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Blinken admitted that negotiations had been &ldquo;challenging&rdquo; and that there might be unresolved issues, saying, &ldquo;You may get a loose end. We&rsquo;re tying up that loose end as we speak.&rdquo;
"We&rsquo;re tying up that loose end as we speak. I&rsquo;ve been on the phone in one way or another all morning with [White House Middle East adviser'] Brett McGurk, with our Qatari friends, and I&rsquo;m very confident that we will [see this] moving forward, and that we&rsquo;ll see the start of the implementation of the agreement on Sunday," he added.
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Earlier on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&rsquo;s office said that the cabinet would not meet to approve the deal until Hamas withdrew demands for last-minute concessions. Reuters quoted Netanyahu&rsquo;s office saying, &ldquo;Hamas reneges on parts of the agreement reached with the mediators and Israel to extort last-minute concessions. The Israeli cabinet will not convene until the mediators notify Israel that Hamas has accepted all elements of the agreement.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-iraq-yemen-forces-to-halt-attacks-on-israel-8627557">&lsquo;If they return, we will return&rsquo;: Iraq, Yemen forces to halt attacks on Israel after Gaza ceasefire</a>
Hamas, however, rejected these claims. A senior Hamas official confirmed to Reuters that the group had not backed out of the ceasefire agreement mediated on Wednesday and remained committed to it.
This back-and-forth has caused confusion among families of hostages, who are awaiting the return of their loved ones.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East:  Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office said that the cabinet would not meet to approve the deal until Hamas withdrew demands for last-minute concessions.

The Israeli cabinet is scheduled to meet on Friday (Jan 17) to discuss and ratify the recently agreed ceasefire deal with Hamas, according to a report by ABC News citing a senior Israeli official. Axios also reported, quoting an Israeli official, "The Israeli cabinet is expected to convene on Friday morning and approve the Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal." During a briefing on Thursday, outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was asked about his confidence in the implementation of the ceasefire. “On the ceasefire, I am confident,” he said. “I fully expect that implementation will begin … on Sunday,” he added. Also read: Watch: Chaos overshadows Blinken’s last press briefing, reporters forcibly removed mid-session Blinken admitted that negotiations had been “challenging” and that there might be unresolved issues, saying, “You may get a loose end. We’re tying up that loose end as we speak.” "We’re tying up that loose end as we speak. I’ve been on the phone in one way or another all morning with [White House Middle East adviser'] Brett McGurk, with our Qatari friends, and I’m very confident that we will [see this] moving forward, and that we’ll see the start of the implementation of the agreement on Sunday," he added. Also read: 'Full truth is horrific': Elon Musk reacts as UK announces fresh probe into grooming gangs Earlier on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said that the cabinet would not meet to approve the deal until Hamas withdrew demands for last-minute concessions. Reuters quoted Netanyahu’s office saying, “Hamas reneges on parts of the agreement reached with the mediators and Israel to extort last-minute concessions. The Israeli cabinet will not convene until the mediators notify Israel that Hamas has accepted all elements of the agreement.” Also read: ‘If they return, we will return’: Iraq, Yemen forces to halt attacks on Israel after Gaza ceasefire Hamas, however, rejected these claims. A senior Hamas official confirmed to Reuters that the group had not backed out of the ceasefire agreement mediated on Wednesday and remained committed to it. This back-and-forth has caused confusion among families of hostages, who are awaiting the return of their loved ones. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli cabinet set to approve Gaza ceasefire deal with Hamas on Friday: Report

As outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held his final press conference Thursday (Jan 16), there was chaos as the State Department employees removed a reporter after he accused the top diplomat of allowing &ldquo;genocide&rdquo; in Gaza.
Max Blumenthal, a journalist with Grayzone News, reportedly abandoned the press conference upon being asked to do so by state department aides. Meanwhile, officials dragged independent journalist Sam Husseini out amid ruckus. Both journalists had blasted Blinken for not reaching the Gaza ceasefire deal sooner.
"Why did you keep the bombs flowing when we had a deal in May?,&rdquo; Blumenthal asked, as quoted by New York Post. &ldquo;Why did you allow my friends homes in Gaza to be destroyed?&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5zmx7ln-m9ajhgyk-4aipmh53">
Sam Husseini forcibly removed from the briefing room after interrupting Blinken&rsquo;s final press conference. <a href="https://twitter.com/TheNationalNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheNationalNews</a> <a href="https://t.co/xw5ulrYhPA">pic.twitter.com/xw5ulrYhPA</a>
&mdash; Willy Lowry (@willy_lowry) <a href="https://twitter.com/willy_lowry/status/1879930156644811084?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
On the other hand, Husseini yelled, &ldquo;You pontificate about a free press!&rdquo; &ldquo;I am asking questions after being told by [spokesman] Matt Miller that he will not answer my questions,&rdquo; the journalist yelled as state department aides carried him out of the session as Blinken was still speaking.
&ldquo;Criminal! Why aren&rsquo;t you in the Hague! Why aren&rsquo;t you in the Hague! Why aren&rsquo;t you in the Hague!&rdquo;
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The outgoing US diplomat said he was confident that the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas will begin on Sunday as expected. He added that he was in touch with US negotiator Brett McGurk and Qatari officials on Thursday morning to resolve the issue.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-israel-hamas-reach-gaza-ceasefire-deal-hostages-to-be-released-soon-8625065">Israel, Hamas reach Gaza ceasefire deal; Trump says 'hostages to be&nbsp;released&nbsp;soon'</a>
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s not exactly surprising that in a process and negotiation that has been this challenging and this fraught, you may get a loose end,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re tying up that loose end as we speak.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The outgoing US diplomat said he was confident that the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas will begin on Sunday as expected amid hiccups. 

As outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held his final press conference Thursday (Jan 16), there was chaos as the State Department employees removed a reporter after he accused the top diplomat of allowing “genocide” in Gaza. Max Blumenthal, a journalist with Grayzone News, reportedly abandoned the press conference upon being asked to do so by state department aides. Meanwhile, officials dragged independent journalist Sam Husseini out amid ruckus. Both journalists had blasted Blinken for not reaching the Gaza ceasefire deal sooner. "Why did you keep the bombs flowing when we had a deal in May?,” Blumenthal asked, as quoted by New York Post. “Why did you allow my friends homes in Gaza to be destroyed?” Sam Husseini forcibly removed from the briefing room after interrupting Blinken’s final press conference. @TheNationalNews pic.twitter.com/xw5ulrYhPA — Willy Lowry (@willy_lowry) January 16, 2025 On the other hand, Husseini yelled, “You pontificate about a free press!” “I am asking questions after being told by [spokesman] Matt Miller that he will not answer my questions,” the journalist yelled as state department aides carried him out of the session as Blinken was still speaking. “Criminal! Why aren’t you in the Hague! Why aren’t you in the Hague! Why aren’t you in the Hague!” Also read: Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit? The outgoing US diplomat said he was confident that the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas will begin on Sunday as expected. He added that he was in touch with US negotiator Brett McGurk and Qatari officials on Thursday morning to resolve the issue. Also read: Israel, Hamas reach Gaza ceasefire deal; Trump says 'hostages to be released soon' “It’s not exactly surprising that in a process and negotiation that has been this challenging and this fraught, you may get a loose end,” he said. “We’re tying up that loose end as we speak.” (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Chaos overshadows Blinken’s last press briefing, reporters forcibly removed mid-session

Following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas to end the conflict in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-announcement-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-a-look-at-the-key-events-of-the-war-8626882">Gaza</a> starting on Sunday, forces in Iraq and Yemen have said that they will suspend their attacks on Israel.
Although the Israeli cabinet, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has yet to confirm the deal, key mediators have announced the agreement between the two sides. The ceasefire has also been welcomed within the Iran-led Axis of Resistance.&nbsp;
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<h2>'If they return, we will return'</h2>
Akram al-Kaabi, the secretary-general of the Nujaba Movement, said in a statement published on Wednesday, &ldquo;With this important development, we announce that we will suspend our military operations against the entity in solidarity with its halt in Palestine, and to strengthen the continuation of the truce in Gaza.&rdquo;&nbsp;
However, he also warned, &ldquo;Let the usurping entity know that any foolishness on its part in Palestine or the region will be met with a harsh response, and that our fingers are still on the trigger and our missiles and drones are fully prepared. If they return, we will return.&rdquo;
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Mohammed Abdul Salam, a spokesperson for Yemen&rsquo;s Houthi Movement, also announced the group&rsquo;s decision to end its operations against Israel, adding that their &ldquo;battle [is] reaching its conclusion with the declaration of a ceasefire in Gaza.&rdquo; However, he said that Israel&rsquo;s &ldquo;continued occupation of Palestine represents a threat to the security and stability of the region.&rdquo;
Iran&rsquo;s Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) also lauded the ceasefire, describing it as a &ldquo;victory&rdquo; for Hamas. The IRGC said in a statement, &ldquo;The end of the war and the imposition of a ceasefire&hellip; is a clear victory and a great victory for Palestine and a bigger defeat for the monstrous Zionist regime.&rdquo;
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Qatar and the United States, as key mediators, confirmed the agreement. Qatar&rsquo;s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, announced on Wednesday that the ceasefire would begin on Sunday, January 19, marking the start of phase one of the agreement. During this initial phase, 33 Israeli hostages are expected to be released over 42 days.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: Qatar and the United States, as key mediators, confirmed the agreement. Qatar’s Prime Minister announced on Wednesday that the ceasefire would begin on January 19,

Following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas to end the conflict in Gaza starting on Sunday, forces in Iraq and Yemen have said that they will suspend their attacks on Israel. Although the Israeli cabinet, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has yet to confirm the deal, key mediators have announced the agreement between the two sides. The ceasefire has also been welcomed within the Iran-led Axis of Resistance. Also read: Netanyahu stalls Gaza ceasefire deal until Hamas drops ‘last-minute concessions’; group denies backtracking 'If they return, we will return' Akram al-Kaabi, the secretary-general of the Nujaba Movement, said in a statement published on Wednesday, “With this important development, we announce that we will suspend our military operations against the entity in solidarity with its halt in Palestine, and to strengthen the continuation of the truce in Gaza.” However, he also warned, “Let the usurping entity know that any foolishness on its part in Palestine or the region will be met with a harsh response, and that our fingers are still on the trigger and our missiles and drones are fully prepared. If they return, we will return.” Also read: British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it? Mohammed Abdul Salam, a spokesperson for Yemen’s Houthi Movement, also announced the group’s decision to end its operations against Israel, adding that their “battle [is] reaching its conclusion with the declaration of a ceasefire in Gaza.” However, he said that Israel’s “continued occupation of Palestine represents a threat to the security and stability of the region.” Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) also lauded the ceasefire, describing it as a “victory” for Hamas. The IRGC said in a statement, “The end of the war and the imposition of a ceasefire… is a clear victory and a great victory for Palestine and a bigger defeat for the monstrous Zionist regime.” Also read: Trump’s inauguration: THESE top leaders and billionaires will attend the mega event Qatar and the United States, as key mediators, confirmed the agreement. Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, announced on Wednesday that the ceasefire would begin on Sunday, January 19, marking the start of phase one of the agreement. During this initial phase, 33 Israeli hostages are expected to be released over 42 days. (With inputs from agencies)

‘If they return, we will return’: Iraq, Yemen forces to halt attacks on Israel after Gaza ceasefire

After 15 months of bloodshed, negotiators on Wednesday (Jan 15) reached a phased deal to end the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The much-awaited ceasefire deal includes key points like the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, and hostage release, among other things.&nbsp;
Although the mediators haven't publicly announced truce specifics, but here are five key details about Wednesday's Gaza ceasefire you must know:
<h2>When will the truce take effect?</h2>
The truce will take effect from Sunday (Jan 19) and in the first phase, which will last six weeks or 42 days, there will be a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Central Gaza, and the return of displaced civilians to northern Gaza.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-biden-and-trump-two-presidents-one-truce-who-gets-the-credit-8625582" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit?</a>
<h2>Does it include humanitarian aid?</h2>
Reuters citing an official briefed on the ceasefire reports that under the deal, every day of the ceasefire, Israel must allow the passage of 600 truckloads of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Of these, 50 would carry fuel, and 300 trucks are to be allocated to north Gaza.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-leaders-welcome-israel-hamas-ceasefire-deal-urge-quick-action-8625864">Global leaders welcome Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal, urge quick action</a>
<h2>Hostage exchange</h2>
During the initial 42 days of the truce, 33 hostages will be released by Hamas militants, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani told the press.
This, he said, will include "civilian women and female recruits, as well as children, elderly people, as well as civilian ill people and wounded". Hamas, as per Reuters, will release three hostages every week. It would first release females and hostages under 19 years, followed by men over 50, and remains of dead hostages would be released last (in the subsequent phases of the truce).
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Meanwhile, Israel will release 30 Palestinian detainees for every civilian hostage and 50 Palestinian detainees for every Israeli female soldier Hamas releases.
Prisoner exchange will also take place in the second and third phases of the truce. However, the number of Palestinian prisoners to be released in exchange for Israeli hostages is yet to be finalised.
<h2>How will the truce be guaranteed?</h2>
Mediators Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have been tasked with guaranteeing the implementation of the agreement.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-farewell-speech-live-oval-office-america-united-states-president-of-the-united-states-president-elect-donald-trump-potus-kamala-harris-8625388" aria-label="As it happened | Biden in farewell speech takes credit for Gaza truce, issues warnings to Americans">As it happened | Biden in farewell speech takes credit for Gaza truce, issues warnings to Americans</a>
<h2>When will the second and third phases happen?</h2>
The negotiations of the second and third phases are yet to be done. For the second phase, talks are scheduled to begin from the 16th day of the initial phase. It is expected to include the release of all the (remaining) Israeli hostages, a permanent ceasefire and the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops.
For the third phase, a negotiation timeline has not been set. However, it is expected to include the return of the remains of the dead hostages and the start of Gaza's reconstruction.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Discover key details of the Gaza ceasefire deal, including phased Israeli troop withdrawal and humanitarian aid provisions, marking a pivotal step towards peace in the region.

After 15 months of bloodshed, negotiators on Wednesday (Jan 15) reached a phased deal to end the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The much-awaited ceasefire deal includes key points like the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, and hostage release, among other things. Although the mediators haven't publicly announced truce specifics, but here are five key details about Wednesday's Gaza ceasefire you must know: When will the truce take effect? The truce will take effect from Sunday (Jan 19) and in the first phase, which will last six weeks or 42 days, there will be a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Central Gaza, and the return of displaced civilians to northern Gaza. Also read | Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit? Does it include humanitarian aid? Reuters citing an official briefed on the ceasefire reports that under the deal, every day of the ceasefire, Israel must allow the passage of 600 truckloads of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Of these, 50 would carry fuel, and 300 trucks are to be allocated to north Gaza. Also read | Global leaders welcome Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal, urge quick action Hostage exchange During the initial 42 days of the truce, 33 hostages will be released by Hamas militants, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani told the press. This, he said, will include "civilian women and female recruits, as well as children, elderly people, as well as civilian ill people and wounded". Hamas, as per Reuters, will release three hostages every week. It would first release females and hostages under 19 years, followed by men over 50, and remains of dead hostages would be released last (in the subsequent phases of the truce). Also read | Biden farewell speech: Sounds alarm on oligarchy, takes subtle swipe at Trump's billionaire-rich cabinet Meanwhile, Israel will release 30 Palestinian detainees for every civilian hostage and 50 Palestinian detainees for every Israeli female soldier Hamas releases. Prisoner exchange will also take place in the second and third phases of the truce. However, the number of Palestinian prisoners to be released in exchange for Israeli hostages is yet to be finalised. How will the truce be guaranteed? Mediators Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have been tasked with guaranteeing the implementation of the agreement. Also read | As it happened | Biden in farewell speech takes credit for Gaza truce, issues warnings to Americans When will the second and third phases happen? The negotiations of the second and third phases are yet to be done. For the second phase, talks are scheduled to begin from the 16th day of the initial phase. It is expected to include the release of all the (remaining) Israeli hostages, a permanent ceasefire and the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops. For the third phase, a negotiation timeline has not been set. However, it is expected to include the return of the remains of the dead hostages and the start of Gaza's reconstruction. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza ceasefire deal: Five key details you need to know about the truce

Israeli airstrikes continue to pound Gaza leaving devastation. Over a 24-hour period, Israeli forces targeted over 50 locations killing at least 62 Palestinians. Meanwhile, the ceasefire deal remains in the works.

Gaza in flames, Blinken called 'Secretary of genocide' | Gravitas

As the ceasefire talks between<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/israel-0" rel="dofollow"> Israel</a> and Hamas reach the final stage, an Israeli diplomatic official accused the Palestinian militant group of making up false claims to try and avoid finalising a ceasefire hostage release deal, The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Hamas is making false claims that Israel added new conditions to the negotiations &mdash; in order to avoid executing the agreement,&rdquo; the source told diplomatic reporters.
The Israeli and Arab mediators have pointed out that a deal is hours or days away from being signed in Qatar; however, no final agreement has been announced yet.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-agreement-know-whats-in-the-draft-as-israel-hamas-talks-enter-final-stage-8622034" rel="dofollow">Gaza truce: Know what's in the draft as Israel-Hamas talks enter final stage</a>
The Palestinian militant group has reportedly accepted a draft agreement on Tuesday for the deal.&nbsp;
The war began after Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1200 people and taking around 250 hostages. Following the attack, Israel retaliated with attacks on the Gaza Strip, and killed more than 64,000 people, according to a study published in The Lancet.&nbsp;
Officials from the US and Arab countries have also been key players in the ongoing negotiations.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-accepts-draft-agreement-for-gaza-ceasefire-hostage-deal-awaits-israels-approval-report-8621263" rel="dofollow">Hamas accepts draft agreement for Gaza ceasefire, hostage deal; awaits Israel's approval: Report</a>
<h2>IDF hits over 50 terror targets in Gaza</h2>
The Israeli Air Force carried out airstrikes on more than 50 terror targets in the Gaza Strip over the past day, the military said.&nbsp;
The military further said that one of the strikes which was launched overnight, targeted a prominent terror operative who was operating out of a former school in Gaza City.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-expected-to-release-33-hostages-in-first-phase-of-emerging-truce-deal-with-israel-report-8620200" rel="dofollow">&nbsp;Hamas expected to release 33 hostages in first phase of emerging truce deal with Israel: Report</a>
Further, other strikes hit Hamas operatives in Khan Younis and Deir-al-Balah, in Southern and central Gaza respectively, the IDF said.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: The Israeli and Arab mediators have pointed out that a deal is hours or days away from being signed in Qatar; however, no final agreement has been announced yet. 

As the ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas reach the final stage, an Israeli diplomatic official accused the Palestinian militant group of making up false claims to try and avoid finalising a ceasefire hostage release deal, The Times of Israel reported. “Hamas is making false claims that Israel added new conditions to the negotiations — in order to avoid executing the agreement,” the source told diplomatic reporters. The Israeli and Arab mediators have pointed out that a deal is hours or days away from being signed in Qatar; however, no final agreement has been announced yet. Also read: Gaza truce: Know what's in the draft as Israel-Hamas talks enter final stage The Palestinian militant group has reportedly accepted a draft agreement on Tuesday for the deal. The war began after Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1200 people and taking around 250 hostages. Following the attack, Israel retaliated with attacks on the Gaza Strip, and killed more than 64,000 people, according to a study published in The Lancet. Officials from the US and Arab countries have also been key players in the ongoing negotiations. Also read: Hamas accepts draft agreement for Gaza ceasefire, hostage deal; awaits Israel's approval: Report IDF hits over 50 terror targets in Gaza The Israeli Air Force carried out airstrikes on more than 50 terror targets in the Gaza Strip over the past day, the military said. The military further said that one of the strikes which was launched overnight, targeted a prominent terror operative who was operating out of a former school in Gaza City. Also read: Hamas expected to release 33 hostages in first phase of emerging truce deal with Israel: Report Further, other strikes hit Hamas operatives in Khan Younis and Deir-al-Balah, in Southern and central Gaza respectively, the IDF said. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas accused of making 'false claims' about Israel's demands to avoid finalising ceasefire deal: Report

Qatar has provided a final ceasefire and hostage release draft to Israel and Hamas to end the Gaza war. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Qatar presents final ceasefire draft to Israel, Hamas

In a big push towards the ceasefire and hostage release agreement between Hamas and Israel, mediator Qatar has handed a &ldquo;final&rdquo; draft of the deal to both the parties, Reuters reported citing an official.
As per the report, following talks between Israel&rsquo;s negotiating team, US President-elect Donald Trump&rsquo;s Middle East envoy, and Qatar&rsquo;s prime minister, a breakthrough was finally reached in Doha after midnight.
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However, an Israeli official told Reuters that they haven't received a draft proposal of the deal to end the war in Gaza. But Israeli media reported that the draft was received and was broadly acceptable to Israel.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Hamas in a statement issued Monday said, &ldquo;We renew our pledge with our steadfast and patient people and with our heroic prisoners in the prisons, and we affirm that their freedom is near.&rdquo;
<h2>'Progress was made': Israeli Foreign Minister</h2>
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa&rsquo;ar said at a press conference in Jerusalem on Monday (January 13) that progress has been made in ongoing negotiations to reach a hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas but did not disclose a timeline for the same.
&ldquo;Progress was made; we see some progress in the negotiations,&rdquo; Sa&rsquo;ar said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-summons-top-bangladeshi-diplomat-as-border-row-escalates-8617965" rel="dofollow">India summons top Bangladeshi diplomat as border row escalates</a> 
&ldquo;Israel wants a hostage deal. Israel is working with our American friends in order to achieve a hostage deal, and soon we will know whether the other side wants the same thing,&rdquo; he added.
Responding to a question about the timeline for a potential deal, Sa&rsquo;ar said, &ldquo;There is progress, I said it looks much better than previously&hellip; but I don&rsquo;t want to say more than that, because I realize there are families that are sensitive to every word and every sentence.&rdquo;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-official-threatens-to-take-legal-action-against-us-diplomat-blinken-for-partnership-in-israeli-crimes-8599843" aria-label="Hamas official threatens to take legal action against US diplomat Blinken for 'partnership' in Israeli crimes">Hamas official threatens to take legal action against US diplomat Blinken for 'partnership' in Israeli crimes</a>
Sa&rsquo;ar said that Israel is working with both the Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration and added that he hoped that "within a short time we will see things happening, but it is still to be proved.&rdquo;
This comes a day after outgoing US President Joe Biden spoke to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-elect-donald-trump-reposts-video-israeli-pm-netanyahu-of-shaping-us-foreign-policy-8604931" rel="dofollow">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> about the ongoing talks for a ceasefire in Gaza.
During the call, Biden &ldquo;stressed the immediate need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the return of the hostages with a surge in humanitarian aid enabled by a stoppage in the fighting under the deal&rdquo;, the White House said.
(With inputs from agencies)
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

World, Middle East: Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said that progress has been made in ongoing negotiations to reach a hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas.

In a big push towards the ceasefire and hostage release agreement between Hamas and Israel, mediator Qatar has handed a “final” draft of the deal to both the parties, Reuters reported citing an official. As per the report, following talks between Israel’s negotiating team, US President-elect Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, and Qatar’s prime minister, a breakthrough was finally reached in Doha after midnight. Also read: Elon Musk launches scathing attack on George Soros, condemns him for 'funding Hamas-supporting' NGOs However, an Israeli official told Reuters that they haven't received a draft proposal of the deal to end the war in Gaza. But Israeli media reported that the draft was received and was broadly acceptable to Israel. Meanwhile, Hamas in a statement issued Monday said, “We renew our pledge with our steadfast and patient people and with our heroic prisoners in the prisons, and we affirm that their freedom is near.” 'Progress was made': Israeli Foreign Minister Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said at a press conference in Jerusalem on Monday (January 13) that progress has been made in ongoing negotiations to reach a hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas but did not disclose a timeline for the same. “Progress was made; we see some progress in the negotiations,” Sa’ar said. Also read: India summons top Bangladeshi diplomat as border row escalates “Israel wants a hostage deal. Israel is working with our American friends in order to achieve a hostage deal, and soon we will know whether the other side wants the same thing,” he added. Responding to a question about the timeline for a potential deal, Sa’ar said, “There is progress, I said it looks much better than previously… but I don’t want to say more than that, because I realize there are families that are sensitive to every word and every sentence.” Also read: Hamas official threatens to take legal action against US diplomat Blinken for 'partnership' in Israeli crimes Sa’ar said that Israel is working with both the Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration and added that he hoped that "within a short time we will see things happening, but it is still to be proved.” This comes a day after outgoing US President Joe Biden spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the ongoing talks for a ceasefire in Gaza. During the call, Biden “stressed the immediate need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the return of the hostages with a surge in humanitarian aid enabled by a stoppage in the fighting under the deal”, the White House said. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

'Breakthrough,' Qatar presents Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal draft to Israel, Hamas

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