The United States expressed "cautious optimism" on Tuesday regarding the potential for a ceasefire in the 14-month conflict in Gaza. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: US Sees 'Cautious Optimism' on Gaza Ceasefire

Gaza 
The Times of Israel reported on Tuesday (Dec 17) that the Palestinian military group Hamas is concerned that US President-elect Donald Trump would allow Israel to resume the war in Gaza after the completion of the first phase of the proposed ceasefire deal.
Although, Trump repeated his statement this week that he would end the Gaza war, but an Israeli official told The Times of Israel that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu believes to possesses more flexibility in Trump's administration than he has in Biden's. 
Hamas also has the same beliefs, hence it is seeking assurance that Netanyahu would not restart the war, the agency reported. 
<h2>'Trying to help...'</h2>
On Monday (Dec 16), Trump said he is working to secure the release of hostages in Gaza. 
“We are trying to help very strongly in getting the hostages back,” the Republican said in a press conference. 
Watch | US News: Donald Trump Warns Hamas To Release Hostages Soon
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/1712_trump_6pm_pkwo-1734441913-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1712_trump_6pm_pkwo_.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=325&tags=US Donald Trump Warns Hamas" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
<h2>Tunnel destroyed </h2>
The IDF further claimed on December 17 that it had destroyed a tunnel in Gaza's Jabalia that was used by Hamas to kill three IDF soldiers in an attack in October. 
The Israeli military said it discovered the tunnel, which was connected to a 500-metre-long underground passage. 
This came after the IDF announced that its two soldiers were killed on Monday (Dec 16) in southern Gaza. 
The military said the two soldiers were killed while two others were injured after a building they were in collapsed in the Rafah area. The building was already damaged, which led to its collapse. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-unaware-of-everything-happening-says-hannah-kobayashi-after-her-return-784712">'Was unaware of everything happening', says Hannah Kobayashi after her return</a>
<h2>'If we finish the war now...'</h2>
Israel had earlier said that it was seeking a temporary pause in the war. It wants the hostages to be released, and then it would resume the war to "dismantle" Hamas. 
“If we finish the war now, Hamas will return, recover and rebuild itself and attack us again… we don’t want to return to this [situation],” Netanyahu said.
(With inputs from agencies)

The military said the two soldiers were killed while two others were injured after a building they were in collapsed in the Rafah area. The building was already damaged which led to its collapse. 



Gaza The Times of Israel reported on Tuesday (Dec 17) that the Palestinian military group Hamas is concerned that US President-elect Donald Trump would allow Israel to resume the war in Gaza after the completion of the first phase of the proposed ceasefire deal. Although, Trump repeated his statement this week that he would end the Gaza war, but an Israeli official told The Times of Israel that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu believes to possesses more flexibility in Trump's administration than he has in Biden's. Hamas also has the same beliefs, hence it is seeking assurance that Netanyahu would not restart the war, the agency reported. 'Trying to help...' On Monday (Dec 16), Trump said he is working to secure the release of hostages in Gaza. “We are trying to help very strongly in getting the hostages back,” the Republican said in a press conference. Watch | US News: Donald Trump Warns Hamas To Release Hostages Soon Tunnel destroyed The IDF further claimed on December 17 that it had destroyed a tunnel in Gaza's Jabalia that was used by Hamas to kill three IDF soldiers in an attack in October. The Israeli military said it discovered the tunnel, which was connected to a 500-metre-long underground passage. This came after the IDF announced that its two soldiers were killed on Monday (Dec 16) in southern Gaza. The military said the two soldiers were killed while two others were injured after a building they were in collapsed in the Rafah area. The building was already damaged, which led to its collapse. Also read | 'Was unaware of everything happening', says Hannah Kobayashi after her return 'If we finish the war now...' Israel had earlier said that it was seeking a temporary pause in the war. It wants the hostages to be released, and then it would resume the war to "dismantle" Hamas. “If we finish the war now, Hamas will return, recover and rebuild itself and attack us again… we don’t want to return to this [situation],” Netanyahu said. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas concerned Trump would allow Israel to resume Gaza war after first phase of ceasefire: Report

The Times of Israel reported on Tuesday (Dec 17) that the Palestinian military group Hamas is concerned that US President-elect Donald Trump would allow Israel to resume the war in Gaza after the completion of the first phase of the proposed ceasefire deal.

Although, Trump repeated his statement this week that he would end the Gaza war, but an Israeli official told The Times of Israel that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu believes to possesses more flexibility in Trump's administration than he has in Biden's.&nbsp;

Hamas also has the same beliefs, hence it is seeking assurance that Netanyahu would not restart the war, the agency reported.&nbsp;

<h2>'Trying to help...'</h2>

On Monday (Dec 16), Trump said he is working to secure the release of hostages in Gaza.&nbsp;

“We are trying to help very strongly in getting the hostages back,” the Republican said in a press conference.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;US News: Donald Trump Warns Hamas To Release Hostages Soon

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-news-donald-trump-warns-hamas-to-release-hostages-soon-784715/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Tunnel destroyed&nbsp;</h2>

The IDF further claimed on December 17 that it had destroyed a tunnel in Gaza's Jabalia that was used by Hamas to kill three IDF soldiers in an attack in October.&nbsp;

The Israeli military said it discovered the tunnel, which was connected to a 500-metre-long underground passage.&nbsp;

This came after the IDF announced that its two soldiers were killed on Monday (Dec 16) in southern Gaza.&nbsp;

The military said the two soldiers were killed while two others were injured after a building they were in collapsed in the Rafah area. The building was already damaged, which led to its collapse.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-unaware-of-everything-happening-says-hannah-kobayashi-after-her-return-784712">'Was unaware of everything happening', says Hannah Kobayashi after her return</a>

<h2>'If we finish the war now...'</h2>

Israel had earlier said&nbsp;that it was seeking a temporary pause in the war. It wants the hostages to be released, and then it would resume the war to "dismantle" Hamas.&nbsp;

“If we finish the war now, Hamas will return, recover and rebuild itself and attack us again… we don’t want to return to this [situation],” Netanyahu said.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

The Times of Israel reported on Tuesday (Dec 17) that the Palestinian military group Hamas is concerned that US President-elect Donald Trump would allow Israel to resume the war in Gaza after the completion of the first phase of the proposed ceasefire deal.

The Times of Israel reported on Tuesday (Dec 17) that the Palestinian military group Hamas is concerned that US President-elect Donald Trump would allow Israel to resume the war in Gaza after the completion of the first phase of the proposed ceasefire deal. Although, Trump repeated his statement this week that he would end the Gaza war, but an Israeli official told The Times of Israel that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu believes to possesses more flexibility in Trump's administration than he has in Biden's. Hamas also has the same beliefs, hence it is seeking assurance that Netanyahu would not restart the war, the agency reported. 'Trying to help...' On Monday (Dec 16), Trump said he is working to secure the release of hostages in Gaza. “We are trying to help very strongly in getting the hostages back,” the Republican said in a press conference. Watch | US News: Donald Trump Warns Hamas To Release Hostages Soon Tunnel destroyed The IDF further claimed on December 17 that it had destroyed a tunnel in Gaza's Jabalia that was used by Hamas to kill three IDF soldiers in an attack in October. The Israeli military said it discovered the tunnel, which was connected to a 500-metre-long underground passage. This came after the IDF announced that its two soldiers were killed on Monday (Dec 16) in southern Gaza. The military said the two soldiers were killed while two others were injured after a building they were in collapsed in the Rafah area. The building was already damaged, which led to its collapse. Also read | 'Was unaware of everything happening', says Hannah Kobayashi after her return 'If we finish the war now...' Israel had earlier said that it was seeking a temporary pause in the war. It wants the hostages to be released, and then it would resume the war to "dismantle" Hamas. “If we finish the war now, Hamas will return, recover and rebuild itself and attack us again… we don’t want to return to this [situation],” Netanyahu said. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 18 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza on Saturday, medics said, while the Israeli military said it targeted gunmen operating from shelters and aid storages.

At least 18 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza on Saturday, medics said, while the Israeli military said it targeted gunmen operating from shelters and aid storages. At least 10 people were killed in an airstrike near the municipality building in Deir Al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip where people gathered to receive aid, medics said. Casualties were being carried by foot, on rickshaws and private cars from the site of the attack to the hospital, medics said. The strike killed the head of the Hamas-run administrative committee in central Gaza, a Hamas source said. The Israeli military was looking into the report, a spokesperson said. Earlier, Israeli aircraft struck militants and weapon caches near an aid warehouse, the military said, after gunmen had fired rockets into Israel from there. Watch | Iranian Singer Faces Prison For Her Performance A separate strike in Gaza City on a former shelter housing displaced people targeted Hamas fighters, the military said. At least seven people were killed in that attack, Palestinian medics said, including a woman and her baby. It was unclear whether any of the other people killed were fighters. The military said it had taken precautions to reduce the risk of harm to civilians. A separate strike in Gaza City killed a local journalist, medics said. The military was looking into the report, a spokesperson said. The war in Gaza began when the Palestinian militant group Hamas stormed into Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200, mostly civilians, people and taking more than 250 hostages back to Gaza, according to Israeli authorities. Israel then launched an air, sea and land offensive that has killed at least 44,000 people, mostly civilians, according to authorities in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip, displaced nearly the entire population and left much of the enclave in ruins. A fresh bid by Egypt, Qatar and the United States to reach a truce has gained momentum in recent weeks. Also read | Five dead, dozens missing in Greece as migrant boat sinks Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Saturday discussed with visiting US officials efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and a hostages-for-prisoners deal in the Palestinian enclave, Sisi's office said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

At least 18 killed in Israeli Gaza strikes: Palestinian medics

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on Friday (Dec 13) said that “for many months, (Palestinian militant group) Hamas has not been prepared to even do the basic things of coming to the table with the names of hostages,” amid the talks of a ceasefire deal to end the war in Gaza.

Sullivan's comments in the interview with Channel 13 came after Hamas gave a list of hostages to mediators that it has planned to release in the first phase of the agreement, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal. However, WSJ’s claim was later denied by an Arab diplomat, the Times of Israel reported.

Sullivan further stated in his interview, “Israel negotiated hard to defend and justify its position in this negotiation". He added that the Palestinian militant group “has been deeply intransigent".

Watch |&nbsp;South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Impeached By Parliament Over Martial Law

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korean-president-yoon-suk-yeol-impeached-by-parliament-over-martial-law-783991/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"> 
“We have seen Hamas repeatedly, time and again, when the opportunity was there to do something, not be prepared to step up and do it,” he said.</div>

“But we have also seen Israel and the Israeli government choose to drive a negotiation where it had its perspective on what was required to get the hostages home and ensure Israel’s security," Sullivan further added.

“We judge that trying to proceed in phases and getting this thing (hostage deal) started so people start coming out — that is the best way to get to the end of the process,” he said.

<h2>Did Hamas give the list of hostages?</h2>

On Thursday (Dec 12), the Wall Street Journal reported that more than a year into the Israel-Hamas war, the Palestinian militant group agreed to the Israeli demand to let the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) remain in Gaza temporarily under a likely ceasefire deal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-bezos-to-zuckerberg-top-us-ceos-line-up-to-embrace-trump-who-once-they-ditched-783987">From Bezos to Zuckerberg, top US CEOs line up to embrace Trump who once they ditched</a>

This comes as Hamas has been maintaining that it won't accept the ceasefire deal unless it promises to end the war and includes a complete withdrawal of IDF troops from the Gaza Strip. But the report said that not only Hamas has agreed to let IDF troops to stay in the Palestinian enclave, but it has also given mediators a list of hostages it would release in the first phase of the ceasefire.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on Friday (Dec 13) said that “for many months, (Palestinian militant group) Hamas has not been prepared to even do the basic things of coming to the table with the names of hostages,” amid the talks of a ceasefire deal to end the war in Gaza.

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on Friday (Dec 13) said that “for many months, (Palestinian militant group) Hamas has not been prepared to even do the basic things of coming to the table with the names of hostages,” amid the talks of a ceasefire deal to end the war in Gaza. Sullivan's comments in the interview with Channel 13 came after Hamas gave a list of hostages to mediators that it has planned to release in the first phase of the agreement, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal. However, WSJ’s claim was later denied by an Arab diplomat, the Times of Israel reported. Sullivan further stated in his interview, “Israel negotiated hard to defend and justify its position in this negotiation". He added that the Palestinian militant group “has been deeply intransigent". Watch | South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Impeached By Parliament Over Martial Law “We have seen Hamas repeatedly, time and again, when the opportunity was there to do something, not be prepared to step up and do it,” he said. “But we have also seen Israel and the Israeli government choose to drive a negotiation where it had its perspective on what was required to get the hostages home and ensure Israel’s security," Sullivan further added. “We judge that trying to proceed in phases and getting this thing (hostage deal) started so people start coming out — that is the best way to get to the end of the process,” he said. Did Hamas give the list of hostages? On Thursday (Dec 12), the Wall Street Journal reported that more than a year into the Israel-Hamas war, the Palestinian militant group agreed to the Israeli demand to let the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) remain in Gaza temporarily under a likely ceasefire deal. Also read | From Bezos to Zuckerberg, top US CEOs line up to embrace Trump who once they ditched This comes as Hamas has been maintaining that it won't accept the ceasefire deal unless it promises to end the war and includes a complete withdrawal of IDF troops from the Gaza Strip. But the report said that not only Hamas has agreed to let IDF troops to stay in the Palestinian enclave, but it has also given mediators a list of hostages it would release in the first phase of the ceasefire. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Hamas refused to provide names of hostages it’s holding: US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan

The UN General Assembly has called for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, as well as the immediate release of all hostages. Around 158 members voted in favor of the Gaza ceasefire, while the United States, Israel, and seven other countries voted against the resolution. Additionally, 13 countries abstained from voting. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: UNGA Calls For Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that he would not stop the war in Gaza, even as efforts toward a ceasefire continue. Speaking at a press conference in Jerusalem, Netanyahu emphasized that if Israel ends its war now, Hamas will recover, rebuild, and launch attacks again. Watch for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu Says, 'If Israel Ends War Now, Hamas Will Rebuild, Attack Again'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the family members of hostages held in Gaza that the regime change in Syria could help advance a deal. Watch for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu Holds Meeting With Hostage Families

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli PM Netanyahu Meets Hostage Families After Regime Change in Syria

Israel-Hamas War: Assad's Ouster A Ray of Hope For Gaza Hostages?

The armed wing of Hamas released a video on Saturday of an Israeli hostage held in the Gaza Strip since the Hamas attack of October 2023. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas' Arm Wing Releases Video Showing Israeli Hostages

The UN agency for Palestinian refugees has halted the delivery of aid through the key Kerem Shalom crossing between Israel and Gaza after it became "impossible", its chief said Sunday.

The UN agency for Palestinian refugees has halted the delivery of aid through the key Kerem Shalom crossing between Israel and Gaza after it became "impossible", its chief said Sunday. "We are pausing the delivery of aid through Kerem Shalom, the main crossing point for humanitarian aid into Gaza. The road out of this crossing has not been safe for months. On 16 November, a large convoy of aid trucks was stolen by armed gangs," UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini said in a post on X. Also read: Putin approves budget plans, raising 2025 military spending to record levels "Yesterday, we tried to bring in a few food trucks on the same route. They were all taken," he added, warning hunger was "rapidly deepening" in Gaza. Lazzarini listed how the humanitarian operation had become "unnecessarily impossible" due to "the ongoing siege, hurdles from Israeli authorities, political decisions to restrict the amounts of aid, lack of safety on aid routes and targeting of local police". It comes after the United Nations warned Friday that Gaza has descended into anarchy, with hunger soaring, looting rampant and rising numbers of rapes in shelters as public order falls apart. Lazzarini called on Israel to ensure aid flowed to Gaza and said the country "must refrain from attacks on humanitarian workers". According to UNRWA's count, only 65 aid trucks per day had been able to enter Gaza the past month, compared to a pre-war average of 500. Israel, which imposed a total siege on the Hamas-ruled territory in the early stages of the war last year, blames the inability of relief organisations to handle and distribute large quantities of aid. 'Catastrophic' During a press visit Thursday, the Israeli army showed aid shipments at the crossing and said they wait at the Gaza side of Kerem Shalom for "months". Lazzarini's announcement follows an Israeli strike Saturday that killed three contractors of the US charity World Central Kitchen, including one who Israel's military said was involved in Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack. The United Nations said last month that 333 aid workers had been killed since the start of the war in October of last year, 243 of them employees of UNRWA. Lazzarini reiterated his call for a ceasefire "that would also secure the delivery of safe and uninterrupted aid to people in need". Jean-Francois Corty, president of France-based charity Medecins du Monde, warned UNRWA's decision was a "very bad omen" and "tragic in a context that was already so". Claire Nicolet, head of mission in Jerusalem for Doctors Without Borders, told AFP the situation was "already catastrophic" and that UNRWA's announcement was the "straw that broke the camel's back" because the UN agency was "the backbone of aid for the supply of food and equipment". The Hamas attack on October 7, 2023 resulted in the deaths of 1,207 people on Israeli side, most of them civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. At least 44,429 Palestinians, a majority of them civilians, have been killed in Israel's military campaign in the Gaza Strip since the war began, according to data provided by the Hamas-run health ministry in the territory. The UN has acknowledged these figures as reliable. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Gaza aid crisis deepens: UN suspends shipments via key Gaza-Israel crossing after loot by armed gangs

US President Joe Biden has reportedly provisionally approved a $680 million arms package to Israel, just a day after the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire agreement was executed.

US President Joe Biden has reportedly provisionally approved a $680 million arms package to Israel, just a day after the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire agreement was executed. A US official familiar with the plan told Reuters news agency on Wednesday (Nov 27). As per reports, the package includes thousands of joint attack munition kits (JDAM). It also contains hundreds of small-diameter bombs. This comes after Biden's national security adviser Jack Sullivan said that the US President was expected to renew the Gaza ceasefire talks on November 27. Sullivan also said that after the Lebanon ceasefire, Hezbollah is no longer capable of supporting Hamas. This will lead the Palestinian militant group to agree on a Gaza ceasefire deal. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire: Lebanese Military Starts Reinforcing Its Presence In South × In August this year, Biden approved a weapon package worth $20 billion to Israel, despite the global cry over the US supporting Israel with weapons. Hamas 'Ready' For Ceasefire Hours after the execution of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire deal, Hamas said on Wednesday (Nov 27) that it is ready for a ceasefire in Gaza. A Hamas official told AFP, "We have informed mediators in Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey that Hamas is ready for a ceasefire agreement and a serious deal to exchange prisoners." He accused Israel of hindering the potential agreement. US and Israeli officials expressed hope that as the Lebanon ceasefire will weaken Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based group will no longer be able to support Hamas. They said the ceasefire is expected to make the Palestinian terror group head forward for a deal with Israel. Also read | Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire deal: What we know about it The ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas have been going on for a long time, but neither of the parties accepted a deal. Both Hamas and Israel refused the conditions mentioned in the deal proposed multiple times by mediators like Qatar and the US. The mediators say that the demand by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to leave troops in Gaza has further affected the deal. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden provisionally approves $680 million weapon package to Israel just day after Lebanon ceasefire: Report

A ceasefire deal, soon to be voted on by the Israeli cabinet would perhaps signal an end to the conflict with Hezbollah. Will this lead to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to recalibrate strategy. Freeing Israel to concentrate its military solely on Gaza?

Can US Stop Netanyahu From Unleashing Havoc on Gaza? | GRAVITAS

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has called for the execution of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. In a statement amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Khamenei denounced the Israeli leaders for their role in the military operations against Gaza. The call for death threats against Netanyahu and Gallant highlights the growing tensions and animosity in the Middle East surrounding the war.

Israel-Gaza War: Israel Strikes South Beirut, Hezbollah Responds With Rockets

Winter rains have added to the hardships faced by Gazans, flooding streets and homes already struggling under the weight of conflict and shortages. With limited resources for drainage and shelter, the harsh weather has compounded the misery of residents, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation in the region. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas War: Rainfall Washes Away Belongings and Shelters of People in Gaza

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened as severe floods devastate already displaced populations amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Thousands of people are facing dire conditions, with limited access to food, shelter, and medical care, compounding the suffering caused by the conflict. The floods have further strained the region’s resources, exacerbating the challenges for aid organizations.

Israel-Hamas War: Gaza's Humanitarian Crisis Worsens As Floods Devastate The Displaced

The United States has rejected the International Criminal Court's decision to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant. Watch this report for more details!

US Rejects ICC's Arrest Warrant For Israeli Leaders | GRAVITAS

The Israel-Gaza conflict has become the deadliest on record for aid workers, with increasing numbers of humanitarian staff killed or injured while attempting to provide assistance in the region. The escalation has significantly impacted relief efforts amid growing violence.

Israel-Gaza War: Gaza Conflict Sets New Record As The Deadliest For Aid Workers

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of committing war crimes, citing his role in actions that have escalated the ongoing conflict. The accusation adds further international scrutiny to Israel's military operations.

ICC Accuses Israel PM Netanyahu Of Committing War

The UK government indicated on Friday (Nov 22) that it could arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visits the country. Notably, the arrest would be&nbsp;against the warrant issued by the International Court of Justice (ICC).&nbsp;

The ICC issued an arrest warrant against Netanyahu and his former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on November 21.&nbsp;

According to AFP, UK PM Keir Starmer's spokesman refused to give any statement on whether the government would arrest Netanyahu, but he said, "The UK will always comply with its legal obligations as set out by domestic law and indeed international law."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-pm-defies-icc-arrest-warrant-by-inviting-netanyahu-over-israel-pm-responds-778377">Hungary PM defies ICC arrest warrant by inviting Netanyahu over, Israel PM responds</a>

Britain signed the Rome Statute in 1998, the international treaty that created the ICC.&nbsp;

UK's ICC Act 2001 says when the ICC issues an arrest warrant to the government minister, "he shall endorse the warrant for execution in the United Kingdom."

UK officials say the act has not been used yet as no one charged by ICC has visited Britain yet.&nbsp;

<h2>Germany's 'Nazi History' With Netanyahu</h2>

Meanwhile, Germany said that the country would not arrest Netanyahu because of its "Nazi history."&nbsp;

A spokesman for Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, told The Telegraph “I find it hard to imagine that arrests could be carried out in Germany on this basis."

The suggestion comes after the German government said in a statement that it has "taken note" of the ICC's decision and that it is one of the international court's biggest supporters.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-police-conduct-controlled-explosion-outside-us-embassy-bomb-squad-deployed-near-gatwick-airport-778419">UK police conduct 'controlled explosion' outside US embassy; bomb squad deployed near&nbsp;Gatwick&nbsp;airport</a>

However, the statement also added, “At the same time, it is a consequence of German history that we share unique relations and great responsibility with Israel. We will carefully examine the domestic steps. Any further action would only be taken when a visit [to Germany] by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant is foreseeable."

(With inputs from agencies)

The UK government indicated on Friday (Nov 22) that it could arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visits the country. Notably, the arrest would be against the warrant issued by the International Court of Justice (ICC).

The UK government indicated on Friday (Nov 22) that it could arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visits the country. Notably, the arrest would be against the warrant issued by the International Court of Justice (ICC). The ICC issued an arrest warrant against Netanyahu and his former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on November 21. According to AFP, UK PM Keir Starmer's spokesman refused to give any statement on whether the government would arrest Netanyahu, but he said, "The UK will always comply with its legal obligations as set out by domestic law and indeed international law." Also read | Hungary PM defies ICC arrest warrant by inviting Netanyahu over, Israel PM responds Britain signed the Rome Statute in 1998, the international treaty that created the ICC. UK's ICC Act 2001 says when the ICC issues an arrest warrant to the government minister, "he shall endorse the warrant for execution in the United Kingdom." UK officials say the act has not been used yet as no one charged by ICC has visited Britain yet. Germany's 'Nazi History' With Netanyahu Meanwhile, Germany said that the country would not arrest Netanyahu because of its "Nazi history." A spokesman for Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, told The Telegraph “I find it hard to imagine that arrests could be carried out in Germany on this basis." The suggestion comes after the German government said in a statement that it has "taken note" of the ICC's decision and that it is one of the international court's biggest supporters. Also read | UK police conduct 'controlled explosion' outside US embassy; bomb squad deployed near Gatwick airport However, the statement also added, “At the same time, it is a consequence of German history that we share unique relations and great responsibility with Israel. We will carefully examine the domestic steps. Any further action would only be taken when a visit [to Germany] by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant is foreseeable." (With inputs from agencies)

UK indicates Netanyahu risks being arrested if he enters country, cites 'legal obligations'

Israel-Hamas War: US Rejects ICC's Arrest Warrant Against Israeli Leaders

Reacting to the arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against him on Thursday (Nov 21), Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the decision "antisemitic."&nbsp;

"The antisemitic (anti-Jews) decision of the international court in The Hague is a modern Dreyfus trial, and it will end the same way," Netanyahu said in a video posted on his X account.&nbsp;

The Dreyfus trial was a political and judicial scandal in France between 1894 and 1906.

A Jewish French Army officer Alfred Dreyfus was wrongfully convicted in that trial in the case of treason of selling military secrets to the Germans.

In the arrest warrants, the ICC accused Netanyahu and his former Defence secretary Yoav Gallant of crimes against humanity and war crimes of forceful starvation in Gaza.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-fundamentally-rejects-iccs-arrest-warrant-for-netanyahu-says-court-has-no-credibility-778138">US ‘fundamentally rejects’ ICC’s arrest warrant for Netanyahu, says court has no credibility</a>

"Now in International Court in The Hague, also headed by a French judge, is repeating this outrageous offence. It is falsely accusing me, the democratically elected Prime Minister of the state of Israel and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant of deliberately targeting civilians. This is when we do all in our power to avoid civilian casualties," Netanyahu said in the video.&nbsp;

Netanyahu further defended himself by saying that Israeli authorities send out evacuation messages to the civilians in Gaza through all means to prevent them from harm. He accused that Hamas, on the other hand, uses civilians as a human shield.&nbsp;

The ICC also alleged that Netanyahu restricted essential humanitarian aid to Gaza such as food, water and medical assistance.&nbsp;

Netanyahu shunned the accusation saying the ICC falsely accused him of "deliberately" starving Gazans. He claimed Israel served Gaza civilians with 700,000 tons of food.&nbsp;

"In the last few weeks, Israel facilitated the vaccination of 97 per cent of the people of Gaza against polio. This doesn't prevent the court from accusing us of genocide," said Netanyahu in the posted video.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-potentially-interested-in-a-hostage-deal-says-senior-israeli-official-778127">Hamas potentially interested in a hostage deal, says senior Israeli official</a>

Netanyahu said the ICC accused him of false charges to divert the world's attention to the sexual harasser, net charges against Hamas.&nbsp;

"Nor did the court do anything against the Hamas terrorists who raped our women, beheaded our men, burnt babies alive in front of their parents and kidnapped hundreds of men, women and children to the underground dungeons of Gaza," Netanyahu said.&nbsp;

He further warned that the ICC and those who support this decision will have to face "severe consequences."

"Our enemies are your enemies. Our victory will be your victory. The victory of civilisation over barbarism and tyranny," said Netanyahu at the end.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Reacting to the arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against him on Thursday (Nov 21), Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the decision "antisemitic.

Reacting to the arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against him on Thursday (Nov 21), Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the decision "antisemitic." "The antisemitic (anti-Jews) decision of the international court in The Hague is a modern Dreyfus trial, and it will end the same way," Netanyahu said in a video posted on his X account. The Dreyfus trial was a political and judicial scandal in France between 1894 and 1906. A Jewish French Army officer Alfred Dreyfus was wrongfully convicted in that trial in the case of treason of selling military secrets to the Germans. In the arrest warrants, the ICC accused Netanyahu and his former Defence secretary Yoav Gallant of crimes against humanity and war crimes of forceful starvation in Gaza. Also read | US ‘fundamentally rejects’ ICC’s arrest warrant for Netanyahu, says court has no credibility "Now in International Court in The Hague, also headed by a French judge, is repeating this outrageous offence. It is falsely accusing me, the democratically elected Prime Minister of the state of Israel and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant of deliberately targeting civilians. This is when we do all in our power to avoid civilian casualties," Netanyahu said in the video. Netanyahu further defended himself by saying that Israeli authorities send out evacuation messages to the civilians in Gaza through all means to prevent them from harm. He accused that Hamas, on the other hand, uses civilians as a human shield. The ICC also alleged that Netanyahu restricted essential humanitarian aid to Gaza such as food, water and medical assistance. Netanyahu shunned the accusation saying the ICC falsely accused him of "deliberately" starving Gazans. He claimed Israel served Gaza civilians with 700,000 tons of food. "In the last few weeks, Israel facilitated the vaccination of 97 per cent of the people of Gaza against polio. This doesn't prevent the court from accusing us of genocide," said Netanyahu in the posted video. Also read | Hamas potentially interested in a hostage deal, says senior Israeli official Netanyahu said the ICC accused him of false charges to divert the world's attention to the sexual harasser, net charges against Hamas. "Nor did the court do anything against the Hamas terrorists who raped our women, beheaded our men, burnt babies alive in front of their parents and kidnapped hundreds of men, women and children to the underground dungeons of Gaza," Netanyahu said. He further warned that the ICC and those who support this decision will have to face "severe consequences." "Our enemies are your enemies. Our victory will be your victory. The victory of civilisation over barbarism and tyranny," said Netanyahu at the end. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu calls ICC arrest warrant 'antisemitic,'  warns of 'severe consequences'

Israel is offering cash rewards to try and get the hostages back. Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel is offering a reward of $5 million to anybody who brings out a hostage held in Gaza. But will this strategy work? And why has Netanyahu made this offer now? Molly Gambhir decodes.

Netanyahu Offers Cash Rewards to Bring Back Hostages | GRAVITAS

On Thursday, the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al-Masri. The warrants were issued for their alleged war crimes related to the Gaza War. Netanyahu has rejected these warrants, calling them "anti-Semitic."

Netanyahu Rejects ICC Arrest Warrants against him and Gallant, Calls it 'Anti-Semitic

Israeli strikes killed 15 people including five children in Palestine's Gaza Strip. A school turn shelter was hit in Nuseirat refugee camp killing six people including two women and one child. Meanwhile, the United States vetoed a UN resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in the war in Gaza saying that the resolution was not linked to an immediate release of hostages taken captive by Hamas in Israel in October 2023. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Another IDF Strike Hit Tent Sheltering Displaced Palestinians

The United States on Wednesday vetoed a UN Security Council push to call for a ceasefire in Gaza that Washington said would have emboldened Hamas.

The resolution demanded "an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire" in the war between Israel and the Palestinian group, along with "the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages."

But the wording angered Israel, with a senior US official warning ahead of the vote that the resolution had "the potential only to buoy Hamas, which will have no reason to come to the negotiating table."

Israel's UN ambassador Danny Danon said, "The resolution being considered by the Security Council today is nothing short of a betrayal."

"For us, it has to be a linkage between a ceasefire and the release of hostages," said Robert Wood, the deputy US ambassador to the United Nations. "It has been our principle position from the beginning and it still remains."

The war was triggered by the assault on Israel by Hamas militants on October 7, 2023, a stunning cross-border raid that resulted in the deaths of 1,206 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza claims&nbsp;the death toll from the resulting war had reached 43,985 people, the majority being civilians. The United Nations considers the figures reliable.

Of the 251 hostages seized during the October 7 attack, 97 remain in Gaza, including 34 the Israeli military says are dead.

Almost all of Gaza's 2.4 million people have been displaced by the war, which has caused a humanitarian catastrophe.

<h2>Gaza 'will haunt'&nbsp;</h2>

Since the beginning of the conflict, the Security Council has struggled to speak with one voice, as the United States has used its veto power several times, although Russia and China have as well.

"China kept demanding 'stronger language'," said the US official, who also claimed that Russia had been "pulling strings" with the countries responsible for pushing the latest resolution.&nbsp;

The few resolutions that the United States did allow to pass by abstaining stopped short of calling for an unconditional and permanent ceasefire.

In March, the council called for a temporary ceasefire during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, but this appeal was ignored by the warring parties.

And in June, the 15-member body pledged support for a US resolution that laid out a multi-stage ceasefire and hostage release plan that ultimately went nowhere.

"We regret that the Council could have incorporated compromise language the UK put forward to bridge the existing gaps... With that language, this resolution should have been adopted," Wood, the US envoy, said following the vote.

Some diplomats have expressed optimism that following Donald Trump's election win on November 5, President Joe Biden might be more flexible in his few remaining weeks in power.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj3k-WSreuJAxXGzTgGHflePSoQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/future-un-climate-summits-should-only-be-held-in-nations-that-experts-776453" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/future-un-climate-summits-should-only-be-held-in-nations-that-experts-776453&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj3k-WSreuJAxXGzTgGHflePSoQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Future UN climate summits should only be held in nations that...: Experts</a>

They hoped for a repeat of December 2016 when then-president Barack Obama's second term was finishing and the council passed a resolution calling for a halt to Israeli settlement building in the occupied territories, a first since 1979.

The United States refrained from using its veto then, a break from traditional US support for Israel on the sensitive issue of settlements.

The resolution vetoed on Wednesday calls for "safe and unhindered entry of humanitarian assistance at scale," including in besieged northern Gaza, and denounces any attempt to starve the Palestinians.

The Palestinian delegation at the United Nations has suggested the text did not go far enough.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj3k-WSreuJAxXGzTgGHflePSoQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/1000-days-of-russia-ukraine-war-un-says-war-in-ukraine-rages-on-undiminished-as-milestone-marked-777380" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/1000-days-of-russia-ukraine-war-un-says-war-in-ukraine-rages-on-undiminished-as-milestone-marked-777380&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj3k-WSreuJAxXGzTgGHflePSoQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">1,000 Days of Russia-Ukraine War: UN Says War in Ukraine Rages on Undiminished as Milestone Marked</a>

"Gaza's fate will haunt the world for generations to come," ambassador Riyad Mansour warned.

He said the only course of action for the Security Council is to call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire under Chapter 7 of the UN charter.

That chapter allows the council to take steps to enforce its resolutions, such as sanctions, but the latest text made no reference to this option.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

The United States on Wednesday vetoed a UN Security Council push to call for a ceasefire in Gaza that Washington said would have emboldened Hamas. The resolution demanded "an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire" in the war between Israel and the Palestinian group, along with "the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

The United States on Wednesday vetoed a UN Security Council push to call for a ceasefire in Gaza that Washington said would have emboldened Hamas. The resolution demanded "an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire" in the war between Israel and the Palestinian group, along with "the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages." But the wording angered Israel, with a senior US official warning ahead of the vote that the resolution had "the potential only to buoy Hamas, which will have no reason to come to the negotiating table." Israel's UN ambassador Danny Danon said, "The resolution being considered by the Security Council today is nothing short of a betrayal." "For us, it has to be a linkage between a ceasefire and the release of hostages," said Robert Wood, the deputy US ambassador to the United Nations. "It has been our principle position from the beginning and it still remains." The war was triggered by the assault on Israel by Hamas militants on October 7, 2023, a stunning cross-border raid that resulted in the deaths of 1,206 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures. The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza claims the death toll from the resulting war had reached 43,985 people, the majority being civilians. The United Nations considers the figures reliable. Of the 251 hostages seized during the October 7 attack, 97 remain in Gaza, including 34 the Israeli military says are dead. Almost all of Gaza's 2.4 million people have been displaced by the war, which has caused a humanitarian catastrophe. Gaza 'will haunt' Since the beginning of the conflict, the Security Council has struggled to speak with one voice, as the United States has used its veto power several times, although Russia and China have as well. "China kept demanding 'stronger language'," said the US official, who also claimed that Russia had been "pulling strings" with the countries responsible for pushing the latest resolution. The few resolutions that the United States did allow to pass by abstaining stopped short of calling for an unconditional and permanent ceasefire. In March, the council called for a temporary ceasefire during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, but this appeal was ignored by the warring parties. And in June, the 15-member body pledged support for a US resolution that laid out a multi-stage ceasefire and hostage release plan that ultimately went nowhere. "We regret that the Council could have incorporated compromise language the UK put forward to bridge the existing gaps... With that language, this resolution should have been adopted," Wood, the US envoy, said following the vote. Some diplomats have expressed optimism that following Donald Trump's election win on November 5, President Joe Biden might be more flexible in his few remaining weeks in power. Also read: Future UN climate summits should only be held in nations that...: Experts They hoped for a repeat of December 2016 when then-president Barack Obama's second term was finishing and the council passed a resolution calling for a halt to Israeli settlement building in the occupied territories, a first since 1979. The United States refrained from using its veto then, a break from traditional US support for Israel on the sensitive issue of settlements. The resolution vetoed on Wednesday calls for "safe and unhindered entry of humanitarian assistance at scale," including in besieged northern Gaza, and denounces any attempt to starve the Palestinians. The Palestinian delegation at the United Nations has suggested the text did not go far enough. Also read: 1,000 Days of Russia-Ukraine War: UN Says War in Ukraine Rages on Undiminished as Milestone Marked "Gaza's fate will haunt the world for generations to come," ambassador Riyad Mansour warned. He said the only course of action for the Security Council is to call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire under Chapter 7 of the UN charter. That chapter allows the council to take steps to enforce its resolutions, such as sanctions, but the latest text made no reference to this option. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israel-Hamas war: US blocks UN push calling for ceasefire in Gaza

US special envoy Amos Hochstein said on a visit to Beirut that an end to the Israel-Hezbollah war was "now within our grasp" as he met with officials to discuss a truce plan largely endorsed by Lebanon. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Hezbollah War: Two IDF Soldiers Killed In Lebanon and Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered Palestinians money and a path to safety in exchange for the release of Israeli hostages. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu Announces $5 Million Reward for Each Hostage Freed in Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a rare visit to the city on Tuesday (Nov. 19) and said that Hamas will never rule again in Gaza. He also announced a $5 million reward for the return of each hostage.

Netanyahu also repeated his pledge to "destroy" the Palestinian militant group and claimed that Israeli forces have destroyed Hamas' military capabilities.

Netanyahu published a video on his X account in which he is seen wearing a battle vest and a ballistic helmet, as he says in Hebrew, "Hamas shall not return."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
החמאס לא ישלוט בעזה. מי שיעז לפגוע בחטופינו - דמו בראשו. אנחנו נרדוף אתכם, ואנחנו נשיג אתכם. <a href="https://t.co/6Coj7l410O">pic.twitter.com/6Coj7l410O</a>
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1858946643854586054?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The Israeli PM also talked about the Israeli hostages in Gaza and said the search for 101 hostages is continuing.&nbsp;

In a big move, Netanyahu even announced a sum of $5 million as a reward for the return of each hostage.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trump-appoints-wall-street-investor-howard-lutnick-as-us-commerce-secretary-777661">Trump appoints Wall Street investor Howard Lutnick as US commerce secretary</a>

"Whoever brings us a hostage will find a safe way. We will also give them a reward of $5 million for each hostage. So, the choice is yours, but the result will be the same. We'll get them (hostages) all back," he further added.&nbsp;

After offering a reward and assuring a safe way out, Netanyahu issued a warning&nbsp;without mincing any words and said,&nbsp;"Anyone who dares to harm our hostages will have blood on their head. We will hunt you down and get you."

Netanyahu reportedly visited Gaza to get first-hand updates on Israeli operations in the territory.

The video also showed Netanyahu accompanied by Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz.&nbsp;

Netanyahu's Gaza visit came a day after he slammed the Biden administration for its policies against Israel.&nbsp;

In his first address in the Knesset after the US election, the Israeli PM said, “The US had reservations and suggested that we not enter Gaza. It had reservations about entering Gaza City, Khan Younis, and, most critically, strongly opposed entry into Rafah.”

The Times of Israel reported on November 18 that&nbsp;Netanyahu also revealed in his speech in the Israeli parliament that he was told by the US to not react after Iran attacked Israel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/another-billionaire-in-team-trump-20-marc-rowan-a-top-contender-for-treasury-secretary-777659">Another billionaire in Team Trump 2.0? Marc Rowan a top contender for treasury secretary</a>

He further claimed that the counterattack by Israel on Iran in October damaged "specific components" of the Islamic nation's nuclear programme.

“It’s not a secret, it has been published&nbsp;that a certain component of their nuclear programme was hit in this attack," Netanyahu told the Israeli parliament.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a rare visit to the city on Tuesday (Nov. 19) and said that Hamas will never rule again in Gaza. He also announced a $5 million reward for the return of each hostage.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a rare visit to the city on Tuesday (Nov. 19) and said that Hamas will never rule again in Gaza. He also announced a $5 million reward for the return of each hostage. Netanyahu also repeated his pledge to "destroy" the Palestinian militant group and claimed that Israeli forces have destroyed Hamas' military capabilities. Netanyahu published a video on his X account in which he is seen wearing a battle vest and a ballistic helmet, as he says in Hebrew, "Hamas shall not return." החמאס לא ישלוט בעזה. מי שיעז לפגוע בחטופינו - דמו בראשו. אנחנו נרדוף אתכם, ואנחנו נשיג אתכם. pic.twitter.com/6Coj7l410O — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) November 19, 2024 × The Israeli PM also talked about the Israeli hostages in Gaza and said the search for 101 hostages is continuing. In a big move, Netanyahu even announced a sum of $5 million as a reward for the return of each hostage. Also read | Trump appoints Wall Street investor Howard Lutnick as US commerce secretary "Whoever brings us a hostage will find a safe way. We will also give them a reward of $5 million for each hostage. So, the choice is yours, but the result will be the same. We'll get them (hostages) all back," he further added. After offering a reward and assuring a safe way out, Netanyahu issued a warning without mincing any words and said, "Anyone who dares to harm our hostages will have blood on their head. We will hunt you down and get you." Netanyahu reportedly visited Gaza to get first-hand updates on Israeli operations in the territory. The video also showed Netanyahu accompanied by Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz. Netanyahu's Gaza visit came a day after he slammed the Biden administration for its policies against Israel. In his first address in the Knesset after the US election, the Israeli PM said, “The US had reservations and suggested that we not enter Gaza. It had reservations about entering Gaza City, Khan Younis, and, most critically, strongly opposed entry into Rafah.” The Times of Israel reported on November 18 that Netanyahu also revealed in his speech in the Israeli parliament that he was told by the US to not react after Iran attacked Israel. Also read | Another billionaire in Team Trump 2.0? Marc Rowan a top contender for treasury secretary He further claimed that the counterattack by Israel on Iran in October damaged "specific components" of the Islamic nation's nuclear programme. “It’s not a secret, it has been published that a certain component of their nuclear programme was hit in this attack," Netanyahu told the Israeli parliament. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu makes rare Gaza visit, announces $5 million reward for each hostage returned

Gaza's Hamas-run interior ministry said Monday (Nov 18) that at least 20 people were killed in an operation targeting "gangs" that looted trucks bringing aid into the war-torn territory threatened with famine.

The Guardian reported that gunmen attacked and looted around 100 trucks carrying desperately needed supplies in the war-hit zone. The attack was reported to be the biggest during 13 months of the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;

"More than 20 members of gangs involved in stealing aid trucks were killed in a security operation carried out by security forces in cooperation with tribal committees," the ministry said in a statement, according to AFP.

"Today's security operation will not be the last," it said, adding that "the phenomenon of truck thefts... has severely impacted society and led to signs of famine in southern Gaza".

The statement called the operation "the beginning of a broad security campaign that has been long planned and will expand to include everyone involved in the theft of aid trucks".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-ex-idf-chief-gadi-eisenkot-loses-third-close-family-member-in-conflict-777058">Israel-Hamas war: Ex-IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot loses third close family member in conflict</a>

A source from the European hospital in the southern Gaza city of Khan Yunis told AFP it had received the bodies of 15 people killed in connection with Monday's anti-looter operation.

An interior ministry source told AFP that 20 were killed in connection with the looting on Saturday of a World Food Programme convoy bringing aid into Gaza.

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a press briefing in New York Monday that only 11 of the convoy's 109 trucks made it to the warehouse after entering through the Kerem Shalom crossing near the Egyptian border.

He said there was "severe damage to the trucks and in some cases, total loss of cargo on the trucks".

Dujarric called the incident the worst instance of looting in Gaza "in terms of volume".

He said the convoy had been initially planned for Sunday, but Israel's military told it "to depart on short notice via an alternate, unfamiliar route".

Israel, which imposed a total siege on the Hamas-ruled territory in the early stages of the war last year, often blames the inability of relief organisations to handle and distribute large quantities of aid.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-war-comes-sweden-finland-issue-survival-guides-as-threat-of-ww3-looms-777185">‘If War Comes’: Sweden, Finland issue survival guides as threat of WW3 looms</a>

Aid distribution is further complicated by shortages of fuel, war-damaged roads and looting, as well as fighting in densely populated areas and the repeated displacement of much of Gaza's 2.4 million people.

Several humanitarian officials told AFP on condition of anonymity that almost half the aid that enters Gaza is looted, especially basic supplies.

(With inputs from agencies)

Gaza's Hamas-run interior ministry said Monday (Nov 18) that at least 20 people were killed in an operation targeting "gangs" that looted trucks bringing aid into the war-torn territory threatened with famine.

Gaza's Hamas-run interior ministry said Monday (Nov 18) that at least 20 people were killed in an operation targeting "gangs" that looted trucks bringing aid into the war-torn territory threatened with famine. The Guardian reported that gunmen attacked and looted around 100 trucks carrying desperately needed supplies in the war-hit zone. The attack was reported to be the biggest during 13 months of the Israel-Hamas war. "More than 20 members of gangs involved in stealing aid trucks were killed in a security operation carried out by security forces in cooperation with tribal committees," the ministry said in a statement, according to AFP. "Today's security operation will not be the last," it said, adding that "the phenomenon of truck thefts... has severely impacted society and led to signs of famine in southern Gaza". The statement called the operation "the beginning of a broad security campaign that has been long planned and will expand to include everyone involved in the theft of aid trucks". Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Ex-IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot loses third close family member in conflict A source from the European hospital in the southern Gaza city of Khan Yunis told AFP it had received the bodies of 15 people killed in connection with Monday's anti-looter operation. An interior ministry source told AFP that 20 were killed in connection with the looting on Saturday of a World Food Programme convoy bringing aid into Gaza. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a press briefing in New York Monday that only 11 of the convoy's 109 trucks made it to the warehouse after entering through the Kerem Shalom crossing near the Egyptian border. He said there was "severe damage to the trucks and in some cases, total loss of cargo on the trucks". Dujarric called the incident the worst instance of looting in Gaza "in terms of volume". He said the convoy had been initially planned for Sunday, but Israel's military told it "to depart on short notice via an alternate, unfamiliar route". Israel, which imposed a total siege on the Hamas-ruled territory in the early stages of the war last year, often blames the inability of relief organisations to handle and distribute large quantities of aid. Also read | ‘If War Comes’: Sweden, Finland issue survival guides as threat of WW3 looms Aid distribution is further complicated by shortages of fuel, war-damaged roads and looting, as well as fighting in densely populated areas and the repeated displacement of much of Gaza's 2.4 million people. Several humanitarian officials told AFP on condition of anonymity that almost half the aid that enters Gaza is looted, especially basic supplies. (With inputs from agencies)

20 killed in anti-'gang' operation after looting of aid convoy: Gaza ministry

israel-hamas-war

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

israel hamas-war

Israel-Hamas War: US Sees 'Cautious Optimism' on Gaza Ceasefire

Hamas concerned Trump would allow Israel to resume Gaza war after first phase of ceasefire: Report

Hamas concerned Trump would allow Israel to resume Gaza war after first phase of ceasefire: Report

At least 18 killed in Israeli Gaza strikes: Palestinian medics

Hamas refused to provide names of hostages it’s holding: US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan

Israel-Hamas War: UNGA Calls For Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza

Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu Says, 'If Israel Ends War Now, Hamas Will Rebuild, Attack Again'

Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu Holds Meeting With Hostage Families

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli PM Netanyahu Meets Hostage Families After Regime Change in Syria

Israel-Hamas War: Assad's Ouster A Ray of Hope For Gaza Hostages?

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas' Arm Wing Releases Video Showing Israeli Hostages

Gaza aid crisis deepens: UN suspends shipments via key Gaza-Israel crossing after loot by armed gangs

Biden provisionally approves $680 million weapon package to Israel just day after Lebanon ceasefire: Report

Biden provisionally approves $680 million weapon package to Israel just day after Lebanon ceasefire: Report

Can US Stop Netanyahu From Unleashing Havoc on Gaza? | GRAVITAS

Israel-Gaza War: Israel Strikes South Beirut, Hezbollah Responds With Rockets

Israel-Hamas War: Rainfall Washes Away Belongings and Shelters of People in Gaza

Israel-Hamas War: Gaza's Humanitarian Crisis Worsens As Floods Devastate The Displaced

US Rejects ICC's Arrest Warrant For Israeli Leaders | GRAVITAS

Israel-Gaza War: Gaza Conflict Sets New Record As The Deadliest For Aid Workers

ICC Accuses Israel PM Netanyahu Of Committing War

UK indicates Netanyahu risks being arrested if he enters country, cites 'legal obligations'

Israel-Hamas War: US Rejects ICC's Arrest Warrant Against Israeli Leaders

Netanyahu calls ICC arrest warrant 'antisemitic,' warns of 'severe consequences'