Israel's parliament on Monday (June 10) moved ahead with a contentious law on conscripting ultra-Orthodox religious students into the military.

This development comes a day after centrist former general Benny Gantz quit the government over strategic disagreements concerning the Gaza war.

<h2>Israel's conscription plan</h2>

The conscription bill, which still requires further readings and committee hearings, proposes a gradual introduction of ultra-Orthodox Jews into military service. Historically, this group has resisted military service.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/today-we-voted-for-peace-un-security-council-overwhelmingly-backs-bidens-gaza-ceasefire-plan-730625">UN Security Council votes 'for peace', overwhelmingly backs Biden's Gaza ceasefire plan</a>

The bill aims to increase ultra-Orthodox participation in the military, although their numbers would be limited and alternatives to military service would be allowed.&nbsp;

Military conscription for ultra-Orthodox men has been a divisive issue in Israel, where mandatory military service is seen as a cornerstone of national security. The debate has become particularly sensitive since the start of the Gaza war, which has resulted in over 600 Israeli soldiers&nbsp;losing their lives.

<h2>Gantz and the conscription bill</h2>

Although initially proposed by Gantz in 2022 under the previous government, he now opposes the bill, arguing it does not meet the new personnel needs of the military.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, the last remaining general after the departures of Gantz and former army chief Gadi Eisenkot, voted against the bill.&nbsp;

In contrast, religious parties within the coalition, who have traditionally opposed broad conscription expansions, supported the bill with the expectation of amending it during the review stage.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-weighs-unilateral-deal-with-hamas-for-release-of-american-captives-in-gaza-730591">US weighs unilateral deal with Hamas for release of American captives in Gaza</a>

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, leader of a pro-settler party, emphasised the importance of integrating the ultra-Orthodox community without pushing them into a corner.

"We have a great opportunity that should not be missed. The ultra-Orthodox public must not be pushed into a corner," he said.

Speaking to Reuters, Assaf Shapira, head of the political reform programme at the Israel Democracy Institute, commented, "There are those who supported it then and oppose it now because they see it as wrong for Israel now, and there are those who opposed it then and will support it now because they see an opportunity to change it."

<h2>Four Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza</h2>

The Israeli army, in an announcement, said that&nbsp;four Givati Brigade soldiers were killed in combat in Gaza's south. The soldiers have been identified as&nbsp;Tal Pshebilski Shaulov, 24-years-old from Gedera; Eitan Karlsbrun, 20-years-old from Modi'in; Almog Shalom, 19-years-old from Kibbutz Hamadia; and Yair Levin, 19-years old from Givat Harel.

The soldier's group, consisting of trainees, was struck by an explosion in a booby trapped building in Rafah's east Shabura neighbourhood.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's parliament on Monday (June 10) moved ahead with a contentious law on conscripting ultra-Orthodox religious students into the military. This development comes a day after centrist former general Benny Gantz quit the government over strategic disagreements concerning the Gaza war.

Israel's parliament on Monday (June 10) moved ahead with a contentious law on conscripting ultra-Orthodox religious students into the military. This development comes a day after centrist former general Benny Gantz quit the government over strategic disagreements concerning the Gaza war. Israel's conscription plan The conscription bill, which still requires further readings and committee hearings, proposes a gradual introduction of ultra-Orthodox Jews into military service. Historically, this group has resisted military service. Also read | UN Security Council votes 'for peace', overwhelmingly backs Biden's Gaza ceasefire plan The bill aims to increase ultra-Orthodox participation in the military, although their numbers would be limited and alternatives to military service would be allowed. Military conscription for ultra-Orthodox men has been a divisive issue in Israel, where mandatory military service is seen as a cornerstone of national security. The debate has become particularly sensitive since the start of the Gaza war, which has resulted in over 600 Israeli soldiers losing their lives. Gantz and the conscription bill Although initially proposed by Gantz in 2022 under the previous government, he now opposes the bill, arguing it does not meet the new personnel needs of the military. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, the last remaining general after the departures of Gantz and former army chief Gadi Eisenkot, voted against the bill. In contrast, religious parties within the coalition, who have traditionally opposed broad conscription expansions, supported the bill with the expectation of amending it during the review stage. Also read | US weighs unilateral deal with Hamas for release of American captives in Gaza Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, leader of a pro-settler party, emphasised the importance of integrating the ultra-Orthodox community without pushing them into a corner. "We have a great opportunity that should not be missed. The ultra-Orthodox public must not be pushed into a corner," he said. Speaking to Reuters, Assaf Shapira, head of the political reform programme at the Israel Democracy Institute, commented, "There are those who supported it then and oppose it now because they see it as wrong for Israel now, and there are those who opposed it then and will support it now because they see an opportunity to change it." Four Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza The Israeli army, in an announcement, said that four Givati Brigade soldiers were killed in combat in Gaza's south. The soldiers have been identified as Tal Pshebilski Shaulov, 24-years-old from Gedera; Eitan Karlsbrun, 20-years-old from Modi'in; Almog Shalom, 19-years-old from Kibbutz Hamadia; and Yair Levin, 19-years old from Givat Harel. The soldier's group, consisting of trainees, was struck by an explosion in a booby trapped building in Rafah's east Shabura neighbourhood. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel votes to revive controversial ultra-Orthodox conscription law following Gantz's resignation

The US has instructed Israel to maintain complete transparency regarding the airstrike on Thursday (June 6) that resulted in the death of at least 30&nbsp;individuals at a Gaza school sheltering displaced persons.

According to reports, a warplane targeted classrooms on the top floor of the school in the Nuseirat urban refugee camp, firing two missiles.

The US asked Israel to identify publicly the Hamas fighters it said it had killed - as the Israeli military gave the names of nine of them.

According to US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, the Israelis informed us that they were targeting 20 to 30 militants and they plan to disclose the names of those they believe they have killed.

<h2>Israeli strike on UN school</h2>

Israel conducted a targeted airstrike on a Gaza school on Thursday (June 6), which it claimed housed up to 30 Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters.

According to a Hamas official, the attack resulted in the death&nbsp;of 30 people, including women and children who were seeking shelter at the UN site.

The video footage showed Palestinians carrying away bodies and several injured people in a hospital after the attack.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-congress-invites-israeli-pm-netanyahu-to-speak-amid-icc-warrant-controversy-and-gaza-crisis-729499">Netanyahu to address US Congress amid ICC warrant controversy and Gaza crisis</a>

The attack came at a moment while talks are on for a ceasefire that would involve releasing hostages held by Hamas and some of the Palestinians held in Israeli jails.

At the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah, an injured boy waiting for medical assistance wept&nbsp;inconsolably after losing his father in the strike.&nbsp;

"What did we do? There are no armed people in the school. The ones there are children, playing. We play together... Why did they bomb us?" he said in the video obtained by Reuters.

<img alt="Israeli strike" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8bc27dd-c4bf-485e-85b7-8997da426aa5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2821%29_3.png" />

The US issued a joint statement with other countries calling on Israel and Hamas to compromise to finalise a deal after eight months of war in the Gaza Strip.

Qatar's foreign ministry spokesperson, Majed Al-Ansari, stated that Hamas had not yet responded to the latest ceasefire proposal and was still reviewing it. He added that mediation efforts by Qatar, Egypt, and the US&nbsp;are ongoing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-raise-death-to-arabs-slogan-in-jerusalem-day-flag-march-729310">Israelis raise 'Death to Arabs' slogan in Jerusalem Day Flag March&nbsp;</a>

According to Hamas sources, there was nothing new to respond to, adding that Israel’s proposal was old and the group rejected it because it did not speak of an end to the war.

Ismail Al-Thawabta, the director of the Hamas-run government media office, rejected Israel's assertion that the UN school in Nuseirat, in central Gaza, had hidden a Hamas command post.

"Israel uses ... false fabricated stories to justify the evil crime it conducted against dozens of displaced people," Thawabta told Reuters.

Israel's chief military spokesperson, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said,&nbsp;Israel had carried out “a specific, intelligence-based strike” against “dozens of Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorists who were hiding inside a UN school.”

Some of the militants had participated in the attacks against Israel on Oct&nbsp;7, he said.

<img alt="Israel-Hams war" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="243d4333-e187-4077-a483-2b58e1137cb2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2822%29_1.png" />

“The operation took place after three days of surveillance and was intended to destroy three specific classrooms in the school where the Israeli military believed roughly 30 militants were staying and planning operations,” said Admiral Hagari.

Israel twice delayed the strike on the school complex because it had identified civilians in the area, he said.

As per&nbsp;intelligence,&nbsp;20 to 30 fighters were located in the compound, and many of them had been killed.

Later, Israel's chief military spokesperson Daniel Hagari said the military had so far identified nine of 30 Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters targeted in the pre-dawn strike.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US has instructed Israel to maintain complete transparency regarding the airstrike on Thursday (June 6) that resulted in the death of at least 30 individuals at a Gaza school sheltering displaced persons.

The US has instructed Israel to maintain complete transparency regarding the airstrike on Thursday (June 6) that resulted in the death of at least 30 individuals at a Gaza school sheltering displaced persons. According to reports, a warplane targeted classrooms on the top floor of the school in the Nuseirat urban refugee camp, firing two missiles. The US asked Israel to identify publicly the Hamas fighters it said it had killed - as the Israeli military gave the names of nine of them. According to US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, the Israelis informed us that they were targeting 20 to 30 militants and they plan to disclose the names of those they believe they have killed. Israeli strike on UN school Israel conducted a targeted airstrike on a Gaza school on Thursday (June 6), which it claimed housed up to 30 Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters. According to a Hamas official, the attack resulted in the death of 30 people, including women and children who were seeking shelter at the UN site. The video footage showed Palestinians carrying away bodies and several injured people in a hospital after the attack. Also read: Netanyahu to address US Congress amid ICC warrant controversy and Gaza crisis The attack came at a moment while talks are on for a ceasefire that would involve releasing hostages held by Hamas and some of the Palestinians held in Israeli jails. At the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah, an injured boy waiting for medical assistance wept inconsolably after losing his father in the strike. "What did we do? There are no armed people in the school. The ones there are children, playing. We play together... Why did they bomb us?" he said in the video obtained by Reuters. The US issued a joint statement with other countries calling on Israel and Hamas to compromise to finalise a deal after eight months of war in the Gaza Strip. Qatar's foreign ministry spokesperson, Majed Al-Ansari, stated that Hamas had not yet responded to the latest ceasefire proposal and was still reviewing it. He added that mediation efforts by Qatar, Egypt, and the US are ongoing. Also read | Israelis raise 'Death to Arabs' slogan in Jerusalem Day Flag March According to Hamas sources, there was nothing new to respond to, adding that Israel’s proposal was old and the group rejected it because it did not speak of an end to the war. Ismail Al-Thawabta, the director of the Hamas-run government media office, rejected Israel's assertion that the UN school in Nuseirat, in central Gaza, had hidden a Hamas command post. "Israel uses ... false fabricated stories to justify the evil crime it conducted against dozens of displaced people," Thawabta told Reuters. Israel's chief military spokesperson, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said, Israel had carried out “a specific, intelligence-based strike” against “dozens of Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorists who were hiding inside a UN school.” Some of the militants had participated in the attacks against Israel on Oct 7, he said. “The operation took place after three days of surveillance and was intended to destroy three specific classrooms in the school where the Israeli military believed roughly 30 militants were staying and planning operations,” said Admiral Hagari. Israel twice delayed the strike on the school complex because it had identified civilians in the area, he said. As per intelligence, 20 to 30 fighters were located in the compound, and many of them had been killed. Later, Israel's chief military spokesperson Daniel Hagari said the military had so far identified nine of 30 Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters targeted in the pre-dawn strike. (With inputs from agencies)

US calls on Israel to provide transparency in Gaza school strike

Hamas announced on Thursday (May 30) that it has informed mediators it would refrain from further negotiations amid ongoing hostilities but expressed readiness for a comprehensive agreement, which would involve an exchange of hostages and prisoners, contingent upon Israel ceasing the conflict.

The talks, mediated by among others Egypt and Qatar, to arrange a ceasefire between Israel and the Islamist movement in the Gaza war have repeatedly stalled with both sides blaming the other for the lack of progress.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-to-lose-power-gantzs-centrist-party-submits-bill-to-dissolve-israeli-parliament-727177">Israel's centrist party submits bill to dissolve parliament, hold polls</a>

The latest Hamas statement came as Israel pressed on with an offensive on the southern Gaza city of Rafah, despite an order by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the top UN court, to halt the attacks.&nbsp;

Hamas and the Palestinian faction will not agree to be part of this policy by continuing ceasefire negotiations in light of the aggression, siege, starvation and genocide of our people, the Hamas said.

Here's a look at the latest updates:

1. The Israeli military has killed three people in what appears to be a targeted strike on a car in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, local media is reporting.

2. Israel has said that the Rafah offensive is focused on saving hostages and rooting out Hamas fighters. 
 
3. The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed its condolences to the families of two Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) paramedics who were killed by Israeli forces in Rafah.

4. Israel said two men were killed in combat in Gaza on Thursday, without providing further details.

5. Israel Defense Forces claimed to have uncovered a 1.5-kilometre-long "terrorist" tunnel route in eastern Rafah, which had dozens of anti-tank missiles and weapons.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-uncovers-15-kilometre-long-terrorist-tunnel-route-in-eastern-rafah-727109">Gaza war: Israel uncovers 1.5-kilometre-long 'terrorist' tunnel route in eastern Rafah</a>

6. The Israeli army on Wednesday (May 29) claimed that it had gained "operational control" over the strategic Philadelphi corridor along the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt.

7. A top Israeli security official said Wednesday the war against Hamas in Gaza could go on until the year's end to achieve the aim of destroying the Palestinian militant group.

8. US military is temporarily removing the humanitarian aid pier off Gaza's coast after the structure broke off, as per a statement by the Pentagon on Tuesday (May 28).

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas announced on Thursday (May 30) that it has informed mediators it would refrain from further negotiations amid ongoing hostilities but expressed readiness for a comprehensive agreement, which would involve an exchange of hostages and prisoners, contingent upon Israel ceasing the conflict.

Hamas announced on Thursday (May 30) that it has informed mediators it would refrain from further negotiations amid ongoing hostilities but expressed readiness for a comprehensive agreement, which would involve an exchange of hostages and prisoners, contingent upon Israel ceasing the conflict. The talks, mediated by among others Egypt and Qatar, to arrange a ceasefire between Israel and the Islamist movement in the Gaza war have repeatedly stalled with both sides blaming the other for the lack of progress. Also read: Israel's centrist party submits bill to dissolve parliament, hold polls The latest Hamas statement came as Israel pressed on with an offensive on the southern Gaza city of Rafah, despite an order by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the top UN court, to halt the attacks. Hamas and the Palestinian faction will not agree to be part of this policy by continuing ceasefire negotiations in light of the aggression, siege, starvation and genocide of our people, the Hamas said. Here's a look at the latest updates: 1. The Israeli military has killed three people in what appears to be a targeted strike on a car in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, local media is reporting. 2. Israel has said that the Rafah offensive is focused on saving hostages and rooting out Hamas fighters. 3. The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed its condolences to the families of two Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) paramedics who were killed by Israeli forces in Rafah. 4. Israel said two men were killed in combat in Gaza on Thursday, without providing further details. 5. Israel Defense Forces claimed to have uncovered a 1.5-kilometre-long "terrorist" tunnel route in eastern Rafah, which had dozens of anti-tank missiles and weapons. Also Read: Gaza war: Israel uncovers 1.5-kilometre-long 'terrorist' tunnel route in eastern Rafah 6. The Israeli army on Wednesday (May 29) claimed that it had gained "operational control" over the strategic Philadelphi corridor along the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt. 7. A top Israeli security official said Wednesday the war against Hamas in Gaza could go on until the year's end to achieve the aim of destroying the Palestinian militant group. 8. US military is temporarily removing the humanitarian aid pier off Gaza's coast after the structure broke off, as per a statement by the Pentagon on Tuesday (May 28). (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas says ready for 'complete deal' if Israel stops war

Israeli airstrikes on a Rafah refugee camp sparked worldwide condemnation as many nations criticised Israel for civilian deaths, particularly in light of the ICJ's ruling on Rafah. The IDF maintained that the strike targeted Hamas militants based on precise intelligence.

In other news,&nbsp;Papua New Guinea is urgently evacuating approximately 7,900 residents from villages close to the site of the catastrophic landslide that hit the island country.

Click on the links to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-rafah-strike-sparks-worldwide-condemnation-heres-how-nations-react-726116">Israel's Rafah airstrikes spark worldwide condemnation, nations react</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/28/434259-destroyed-building-in-rafah-southern-gaza-strip-on-may-26-2024.png?imwidth=400" />

Israel is facing global condemnation for&nbsp;airstrikes on a Palestinian refugee camp in Rafah, Gaza, on May 26 that resulted in 45 casualties. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has labelled the incident a "tragic accident" under investigation.

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/28/434252-papua-new-guinea.png?imwidth=400" />

The massive landslide, which struck on May 24 has already buried over 2,000 people, as per government, a much higher tally than the initial estimates provided by the UN which reported over 670 possible deaths.

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Pope Francis, while speaking about the non-admission of homosexual men in church seminaries because of the presence of 'too much' gay sexual activity, used an offensive slur which left the bishops&nbsp;shocked in Italy.

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Taliban will be removed from the&nbsp;list of banned terrorist organisations,&nbsp;three years after they returned to power in Afghanistan, the state-run RIA Novosti news agency said.

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Israeli airstrikes on a Rafah refugee camp sparked worldwide condemnation as many nations criticised Israel for civilian deaths, particularly in light of the ICJ's ruling on Rafah.

Israeli airstrikes on a Rafah refugee camp sparked worldwide condemnation as many nations criticised Israel for civilian deaths, particularly in light of the ICJ's ruling on Rafah. The IDF maintained that the strike targeted Hamas militants based on precise intelligence. In other news, Papua New Guinea is urgently evacuating approximately 7,900 residents from villages close to the site of the catastrophic landslide that hit the island country. Click on the links to read more Israel's Rafah airstrikes spark worldwide condemnation, nations react Israel is facing global condemnation for airstrikes on a Palestinian refugee camp in Rafah, Gaza, on May 26 that resulted in 45 casualties. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has labelled the incident a "tragic accident" under investigation. Papua New Guinea: Fear of new landslides forces evacuation of 7,900 The massive landslide, which struck on May 24 has already buried over 2,000 people, as per government, a much higher tally than the initial estimates provided by the UN which reported over 670 possible deaths. Pope Francis allegedly uses vulgar slur for gay men, says there is already 'an air of f*****ry' Pope Francis, while speaking about the non-admission of homosexual men in church seminaries because of the presence of 'too much' gay sexual activity, used an offensive slur which left the bishops shocked in Italy. Russia to delist Taliban as terrorist group: Report Taliban will be removed from the list of banned terrorist organisations, three years after they returned to power in Afghanistan, the state-run RIA Novosti news agency said. Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky seeks permission of allies to strike Russia ×

Morning brief: Israel's Rafah airstrikes spark condemnation; Papua New Guinea evacuates 7,900 people; & more

Clashes erupted on Sunday (May 26) between Jewish pilgrims and the police at a religious festival site in northern Israel. The location was closed to large gatherings this year due to rocket attacks from Lebanon&nbsp;following a deadly crowd crush that killed 45 people there three years ago.

The all-night sessions of prayers, mystical songs and dance had in previous years drawn crowds in the tens of thousands.

However, this year’s festival was cancelled since the site at Meron in the Galilee region has been targeted by rocket fire from Lebanon.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-airstrikes-in-rafah-camp-for-displaced-people-kill-35-palestinians-gaza-health-ministry-725705">Israeli airstrikes on Rafah camp kill 35 Palestinians: Gaza health ministry</a>

It is worth mentioning that&nbsp;many northern Israeli towns have been evacuated since Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon began firing at them following Hamas’ Oct&nbsp;7 assault on southern Israel, which sparked the war in Gaza.

Despite the closure, authorities turned away thousands of pilgrims over the weekend. However, hundreds managed to reach the site, leading to a tense situation. Police reported property damage and objects thrown at officers, resulting in injuries to 19 of them.

Israeli media reported that several people in the unauthorised crowd were hurt. At least one officer was suspended for pushing an older man to the ground, and police said it was examining other incidents from the site.

(With inputs from agencies)

Clashes erupted on Sunday (May 26) between Jewish pilgrims and the police at a religious festival site in northern Israel. The location was closed to large gatherings this year due to rocket attacks from Lebanon following a deadly crowd crush that killed 45 people there three years ago.

Clashes erupted on Sunday (May 26) between Jewish pilgrims and the police at a religious festival site in northern Israel. The location was closed to large gatherings this year due to rocket attacks from Lebanon following a deadly crowd crush that killed 45 people there three years ago. The all-night sessions of prayers, mystical songs and dance had in previous years drawn crowds in the tens of thousands. However, this year’s festival was cancelled since the site at Meron in the Galilee region has been targeted by rocket fire from Lebanon. Also read: Israeli airstrikes on Rafah camp kill 35 Palestinians: Gaza health ministry It is worth mentioning that many northern Israeli towns have been evacuated since Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon began firing at them following Hamas’ Oct 7 assault on southern Israel, which sparked the war in Gaza. Despite the closure, authorities turned away thousands of pilgrims over the weekend. However, hundreds managed to reach the site, leading to a tense situation. Police reported property damage and objects thrown at officers, resulting in injuries to 19 of them. Israeli media reported that several people in the unauthorised crowd were hurt. At least one officer was suspended for pushing an older man to the ground, and police said it was examining other incidents from the site. (With inputs from agencies)

Jewish pilgrims and police clash at restricted Mount Meron in Israel

The UN World Food Program (WFP) said on Tuesday (May 21) the newly built $320 million pier project for delivering aid to Gaza may fail unless Israel starts ensuring the conditions the humanitarian groups need to operate safely.&nbsp;

The operation was paused for at least two days after crowds looted aid trucks arriving from the port, resulting in the death of one Palestinian man.

Deliveries were stopped on Sunday and Monday (May 19-20) after the majority of the trucks in an aid convoy were stripped of all their goods on the way to a warehouse in Gaza, the WFP said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-seizes-news-agency-aps-equipment-stops-gaza-live-feed-for-threatening-security-724002">Israel seizes news agency&nbsp;AP’s&nbsp;equipment, stops Gaza live feed for&nbsp;‘threatening security’</a>

The Pentagon announced that aid movement from the secured port area resumed on Tuesday (May 21), but the UN reported that it was unaware of any deliveries that day.

Only five of the 16 aid trucks that left the secured area on Saturday (May 18) arrived at the warehouse with their cargo intact, WFP spokesperson&nbsp;Steve Taravella told The Associated Press news agency.

“Without sufficient supplies entering Gaza, these issues will continue to surface,” Taravella said in an email.

“We have raised this issue with the relevant parties and reiterate our request for alternative roads to facilitate aid delivery. Unless we receive the necessary clearance and coordination to use additional routes, this operation may not be successful.”

The WFP also said on Tuesday (May 21) it has suspended food distribution in the southern Gaza city of Rafah due to a lack of supplies and insecurity.

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President Joe Biden had ordered the US military to build the floating pier for deliveries of food and other vital supplies.&nbsp;

Israeli restrictions on shipments through land borders and ongoing fighting have caused a severe food crisis for all 2.3 million residents of Gaza since the Israel-Hamas war began in October.

US and UN officials reported that famine has gripped northern Gaza.

According to a UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, the aid convoys do not travel with armed security. He said security comes from engagement with various community groups and humanitarian partners.

The Pentagon press secretary, Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, said as of Tuesday 569 metric tonnes of aid has been delivered to the secured area at the Gaza port. Some aid remains at the port because distribution agencies are seeking alternative routes to transport it to warehouses in Gaza.

When asked if any aid from the pier had yet reached Gaza residents in need, Ryder said, “I do not believe so.”

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The war began in October 2023&nbsp;after a Hamas-led attack killed about 1,200 people in Israel. Israeli airstrikes and fighting have killed more than 35,000 Palestinians since then.

As per the UN, since May 10, only about three dozen trucks have made it into Gaza via the nearby Kerem Shalom crossing from Israel because fighting makes it difficult for aid workers to reach it.

(With inputs from agencies)

The UN World Food Program (WFP) said on Tuesday (May 21) the newly built $320 million pier project for delivering aid to Gaza may fail unless Israel starts ensuring the conditions the humanitarian groups need to operate safely.

The UN World Food Program (WFP) said on Tuesday (May 21) the newly built $320 million pier project for delivering aid to Gaza may fail unless Israel starts ensuring the conditions the humanitarian groups need to operate safely. The operation was paused for at least two days after crowds looted aid trucks arriving from the port, resulting in the death of one Palestinian man. Deliveries were stopped on Sunday and Monday (May 19-20) after the majority of the trucks in an aid convoy were stripped of all their goods on the way to a warehouse in Gaza, the WFP said. Also read: Israel seizes news agency AP’s equipment, stops Gaza live feed for ‘threatening security’ The Pentagon announced that aid movement from the secured port area resumed on Tuesday (May 21), but the UN reported that it was unaware of any deliveries that day. Only five of the 16 aid trucks that left the secured area on Saturday (May 18) arrived at the warehouse with their cargo intact, WFP spokesperson Steve Taravella told The Associated Press news agency. “Without sufficient supplies entering Gaza, these issues will continue to surface,” Taravella said in an email. “We have raised this issue with the relevant parties and reiterate our request for alternative roads to facilitate aid delivery. Unless we receive the necessary clearance and coordination to use additional routes, this operation may not be successful.” The WFP also said on Tuesday (May 21) it has suspended food distribution in the southern Gaza city of Rafah due to a lack of supplies and insecurity. Also read: Biden`s clean chit to Israel? US president says war in Gaza `not genocide` President Joe Biden had ordered the US military to build the floating pier for deliveries of food and other vital supplies. Israeli restrictions on shipments through land borders and ongoing fighting have caused a severe food crisis for all 2.3 million residents of Gaza since the Israel-Hamas war began in October. US and UN officials reported that famine has gripped northern Gaza. According to a UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, the aid convoys do not travel with armed security. He said security comes from engagement with various community groups and humanitarian partners. The Pentagon press secretary, Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, said as of Tuesday 569 metric tonnes of aid has been delivered to the secured area at the Gaza port. Some aid remains at the port because distribution agencies are seeking alternative routes to transport it to warehouses in Gaza. When asked if any aid from the pier had yet reached Gaza residents in need, Ryder said, “I do not believe so.” × The war began in October 2023 after a Hamas-led attack killed about 1,200 people in Israel. Israeli airstrikes and fighting have killed more than 35,000 Palestinians since then. As per the UN, since May 10, only about three dozen trucks have made it into Gaza via the nearby Kerem Shalom crossing from Israel because fighting makes it difficult for aid workers to reach it. (With inputs from agencies)

UN halts Rafah aid distribution, warns of potential US pier failure

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Wednesday (May 15) put forward a new conscription law proposal that would gradually increase national service recruitment among the ultra-Orthodox Haredi community.

The proposal comes just a day before the May 16 deadline set by the Israeli Supreme Court. Earlier this month, the court had given Netanyahu's coalition time to come up with a plan to resolve the conscription issue, which has caused significant public discontent.

<h2>Ultra-Orthodox Jews and exemptions</h2>

The exemptions granted to ultra-Orthodox Jews have long been a point of contention in Israel. The issue is further exacerbated by the country's costly mobilisation during the conflict in Gaza in which high casualties have been recorded among young soldiers and reservists.

Ultra-Orthodox parties, which represent approximately 13 per cent of Israel's population, have been coalition partners in successive Netanyahu-led governments, demanding that their constituents be permitted to study in seminaries instead of serving in the military.

Netanyahu's coalition includes two ultra-Orthodox parties that have threatened to leave the government if military exemptions are removed.&nbsp;

Critics argue that the draft exemption stops many of them from participating in the workforce, while opposition lawmakers have denounced it as an unfair and an insulting policy to other Israelis.

<h2>Netanyahu's proposal</h2>

The new proposal aims to gradually increase national service recruitment among ultra-Orthodox Jews.&nbsp;

It builds on a previous bill introduced by former army chief Benny Gantz, who joined Netanyahu's government in a show of unity during the war. However, Gantz has criticised the bill as inadequate for Israel's current wartime needs, emphasising that the country requires more soldiers rather than political compromises.

Previously, in March, the centrist cabinet minister said, "The nation cannot accept it, the Knesset (parliament) must not vote for it, and my colleagues and I will not be members of the emergency government should such legislation pass in the Knesset."

"The conscription law being drawn up by the government is a serious moral failure that will create a deep rift within us at a time when we need to fight together against our enemies,"&nbsp;Gantz added.

Netanyahu's office stated that the prime minister aims to bridge societal and political divides and has urged all parties that previously supported the conscription law to do so again.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Wednesday (May 15) put forward a new conscription law proposal that would gradually increase national service recruitment among the ultra-Orthodox Haredi community.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Wednesday (May 15) put forward a new conscription law proposal that would gradually increase national service recruitment among the ultra-Orthodox Haredi community. The proposal comes just a day before the May 16 deadline set by the Israeli Supreme Court. Earlier this month, the court had given Netanyahu's coalition time to come up with a plan to resolve the conscription issue, which has caused significant public discontent. Ultra-Orthodox Jews and exemptions The exemptions granted to ultra-Orthodox Jews have long been a point of contention in Israel. The issue is further exacerbated by the country's costly mobilisation during the conflict in Gaza in which high casualties have been recorded among young soldiers and reservists. Ultra-Orthodox parties, which represent approximately 13 per cent of Israel's population, have been coalition partners in successive Netanyahu-led governments, demanding that their constituents be permitted to study in seminaries instead of serving in the military. Netanyahu's coalition includes two ultra-Orthodox parties that have threatened to leave the government if military exemptions are removed. Critics argue that the draft exemption stops many of them from participating in the workforce, while opposition lawmakers have denounced it as an unfair and an insulting policy to other Israelis. Netanyahu's proposal The new proposal aims to gradually increase national service recruitment among ultra-Orthodox Jews. It builds on a previous bill introduced by former army chief Benny Gantz, who joined Netanyahu's government in a show of unity during the war. However, Gantz has criticised the bill as inadequate for Israel's current wartime needs, emphasising that the country requires more soldiers rather than political compromises. Previously, in March, the centrist cabinet minister said, "The nation cannot accept it, the Knesset (parliament) must not vote for it, and my colleagues and I will not be members of the emergency government should such legislation pass in the Knesset." "The conscription law being drawn up by the government is a serious moral failure that will create a deep rift within us at a time when we need to fight together against our enemies," Gantz added. Netanyahu's office stated that the prime minister aims to bridge societal and political divides and has urged all parties that previously supported the conscription law to do so again. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu proposes gradually increasing ultra-Orthodox Jew drafting in army

The United States has halted the delivery of bombs to Israel due to concerns that it was planning to launch a full-scale attack on the southern Gaza city of Rafah.&nbsp;

According to a senior US official, the shipment included 1,800 2,000-pound bombs and 1,700 500-pound bombs.

The official, who asked to remain anonymous, on Tuesday (May 7) stated that the US was mainly concerned about the larger explosives and how they could potentially be used in a densely populated urban area.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strike-in-gaza-city-kills-7-several-reported-wounded-as-humanitarian-crisis-deepens-719138">Israeli strike in Gaza city kills 7, several reported wounded</a>

Over one&nbsp;million civilians are currently sheltering in Rafah after being forced to evacuate other parts of Gaza due to Israel's conflict with Hamas.

The US has historically provided huge amounts of military aid for Israel. That has only accelerated in the aftermath of Hamas' Oct&nbsp;7 attack that killed some 1,200 in Israel and led to about 250 being taken captive by the militants.&nbsp;

<img alt="Israel-Hams war" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2e845cfd-4686-4695-9952-acff6177bad1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-05-08T095654.684.png" />

The pausing of the aid shipment is the most striking sign of the growing daylight between Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government and the White House.

Biden&nbsp;administration in April began to review future transfers of military assistance as Netanyahu’s government appeared to move closer to&nbsp;an invasion of Rafah, despite months of opposition from the White House.&nbsp;

The official said the decision to pause the shipment was made last week and no final decision had been made yet on whether to proceed with the shipment at a later date.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-take-control-of-gaza-side-of-rafah-crossing-aid-flow-impacted-719023">Humanitarian aid flow impacted as Israeli forces take control of Gaza side of Rafah crossing</a>

<h2>Israel secures Rafah crossing</h2>

On Tuesday, Israeli forces took control of the Rafah border crossing in Gaza, which the White House characterised as a limited operation that avoided the large-scale invasion of the city that President Biden had warned against on humanitarian grounds during his recent call with Netanyahu.

Israel has instructed 100,000 Palestinians to evacuate Rafah, while its troops conducted targeted strikes in the city's eastern areas and secured the Rafah crossing, a crucial route for humanitarian aid along the Gaza-Egypt border.

Watch:&nbsp;Gallant says Operations to continue until end of Hamas or hostages return

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It is worth mentioning that last month, Congress passed a $95 billion security bill that included funding for Ukraine, Israel and other allies. The package included more than $14 billion in military aid for Israel.

Meanwhile, the Biden administration's report on whether Israel has breached US&nbsp;and international humanitarian law during the Gaza war has been postponed and will not be released on Wednesday (May 8), according to three Senate aides and one House aide, as reported by&nbsp;POLITICO.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States has halted the delivery of bombs to Israel due to concerns that it was planning to launch a full-scale attack on the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

The United States has halted the delivery of bombs to Israel due to concerns that it was planning to launch a full-scale attack on the southern Gaza city of Rafah. According to a senior US official, the shipment included 1,800 2,000-pound bombs and 1,700 500-pound bombs. The official, who asked to remain anonymous, on Tuesday (May 7) stated that the US was mainly concerned about the larger explosives and how they could potentially be used in a densely populated urban area. Also read: Israeli strike in Gaza city kills 7, several reported wounded Over one million civilians are currently sheltering in Rafah after being forced to evacuate other parts of Gaza due to Israel's conflict with Hamas. The US has historically provided huge amounts of military aid for Israel. That has only accelerated in the aftermath of Hamas' Oct 7 attack that killed some 1,200 in Israel and led to about 250 being taken captive by the militants. The pausing of the aid shipment is the most striking sign of the growing daylight between Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government and the White House. Biden administration in April began to review future transfers of military assistance as Netanyahu’s government appeared to move closer to an invasion of Rafah, despite months of opposition from the White House. The official said the decision to pause the shipment was made last week and no final decision had been made yet on whether to proceed with the shipment at a later date. Also read | Humanitarian aid flow impacted as Israeli forces take control of Gaza side of Rafah crossing Israel secures Rafah crossing On Tuesday, Israeli forces took control of the Rafah border crossing in Gaza, which the White House characterised as a limited operation that avoided the large-scale invasion of the city that President Biden had warned against on humanitarian grounds during his recent call with Netanyahu. Israel has instructed 100,000 Palestinians to evacuate Rafah, while its troops conducted targeted strikes in the city's eastern areas and secured the Rafah crossing, a crucial route for humanitarian aid along the Gaza-Egypt border. Watch: Gallant says Operations to continue until end of Hamas or hostages return × It is worth mentioning that last month, Congress passed a $95 billion security bill that included funding for Ukraine, Israel and other allies. The package included more than $14 billion in military aid for Israel. Meanwhile, the Biden administration's report on whether Israel has breached US and international humanitarian law during the Gaza war has been postponed and will not be released on Wednesday (May 8), according to three Senate aides and one House aide, as reported by POLITICO. (With inputs from agencies)

US halts bomb shipment to Israel amid signs of full-scale Rafah invasion

More than 100 protesters were arrested at the Columbia University and City College of New York on Tuesday (Apr 30), according to law enforcement officials.

Around two dozen protesters were arrested, who as per the police tried to prevent officers from entering the campus, the official said.

New York City police moved in on Columbia University late Tuesday (Apr 30), encountering dozens of pro-Palestinian protesters still occupying parts of the campus.

In a letter addressed to the New York Police Department, Columbia University president Minouche Shafik said that the occupation of the school building was being led by "individuals who are not affiliated with the University" and asked "NYPD's help to clear all individuals from Hamilton Hall and all campus encampments."

<img alt="NYPD arrests pro-Palestinian protesters " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="913c0e17-6469-4337-b47e-b555baaf4be4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Northwestern%20University%20achieved%20a%20unique%20resolution%20by%20agreeing%20with%20student%20and%20faculty%20protesters%20on%20its%20Evanston%20campus.%20This%20agreement%20allows%20peaceful%20demonstrations%20to%20continue%20for%20the%20remai.png" />

She also asked the police to remain on campus through at least May 17, "to ensure encampments are not reestablished." Commencement is scheduled for May 15.

Following authorisation from Columbia University, the New York Police Department deployed officers to the university campus.

After entering the campus, a contingent of police officers approached Hamilton Hall, the administration building that students began occupying in the morning.

<img alt="Columbia University campus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44e8dd1b-79e7-48d6-a7a6-d01f7a50c20b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pic2.png" />

"We’re clearing it out," police officers yelled as they marched up to the barricaded entrance of Hamilton Hall, an academic building that protesters had broken into and seized control of in the early morning hours of Tuesday.

A long line of police officers was seen climbing into the building through a second-storey window, using a vehicle with a ladder to gain access to the upper floor.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-will-enter-rafah-with-or-without-gaza-hostage-deal-says-netanyahu-716734">Israeli forces will enter Rafah ‘with or without’ Gaza hostage deal: Netanyahu</a>

Students had disobediently set up tents again after police cleared an encampment at the university on April 18 and arrested more than 100 people. The students had been protesting on the Manhattan campus since the previous day, opposing Israeli military action in Gaza and demanding the school divest from companies they claim are profiting from the conflict.

<img alt="Columbia University campus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4a346c5e-0490-40fe-af56-01f7faa8b9e5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Northwestern%20University%20achieved%20a%20unique%20resolution%20by%20agreeing%20with%20student%20and%20faculty%20protesters%20on%20its%20Evanston%20campus.%20This%20agreement%20allows%20peaceful%20demonstrations%20to%20continue%20for%20the%20remai%20%282%29.png" />

Over the past two weeks, campus protests across at least nine states, including Texas, Utah, and California, have resulted in over 1,000 arrests, some following confrontations between protesters and police in riot gear.

“Walk away from this situation now and continue your advocacy through other means,” New York City Mayor Eric Adams advised the Columbia protesters on Tuesday afternoon. “This must end now.”

<h2 style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Biden condemns use of term ‘intifada’ at college protest</h2>

The White House condemned the takeover of a Columbia University building by pro-Palestinian protesters and the use of the term ‘intifada’ during the protest inside the college campus.

The protesters hung a banner down the building which read ‘INTIFADA,’ the Arabic word for rebellion or uprising.

"President Biden has stood against repugnant, antisemitic smears and violent rhetoric his entire life," Andrew Bates, a White House assistant press secretary, said in a statement.&nbsp;

"He condemns the use of the term 'intifada,' as he has the other tragic and dangerous hate speech displayed in recent days."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/northwestern-university-reaches-deal-with-pro-palestinian-protesters-to-end-encampment-on-campus-716798">Northwestern University reaches deal with pro-Palestinian protesters to end encampment on campus</a>

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said, “President Joe Biden believes students occupying an academic building is definitely the wrong approach and does not represent a peaceful protest.”&nbsp;

<img alt="Columbia University campus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2568bfed-6004-4427-8835-a31b08bd5895" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Northwestern%20University%20achieved%20a%20unique%20resolution%20by%20agreeing%20with%20student%20and%20faculty%20protesters%20on%20its%20Evanston%20campus.%20This%20agreement%20allows%20peaceful%20demonstrations%20to%20continue%20for%20the%20remai%20%281%29.png" />

Other colleges have sought to negotiate agreements with the demonstrators in the hopes of having peaceful commencement ceremonies.&nbsp;

Northwestern University achieved a resolution by agreeing with student and faculty protesters on its campus. This agreement allows peaceful demonstrations to continue for the remainder of the spring semester.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taken-matters-into-their-own-hands-columbia-students-protestors-takeover-university-building-716599">Columbia student protesters seize university building, White House condemns</a>

Columbia has warned that students occupying the building face expulsion.

The university outlined in a press update on Tuesday that those in the encampments and Hamilton Hall number in the dozens,&nbsp;while nearly 37,000 attend Columbia.

The Gaza war started when Hamas militants staged an unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7 that left around 1,170 people dead, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

<img alt="Columbia University campus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f7be2528-b656-4111-b087-b5a264f7dc1d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Northwestern%20University%20achieved%20a%20unique%20resolution%20by%20agreeing%20with%20student%20and%20faculty%20protesters%20on%20its%20Evanston%20campus.%20This%20agreement%20allows%20peaceful%20demonstrations%20to%20continue%20for%20the%20remai%20%283%29.png" />

During their attack, militants also seized hostages, 129 of whom Israel estimates remain in Gaza, including 34 whom the military says are dead.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 34,535 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 100 protesters were arrested at the Columbia University and City College of New York on Tuesday (Apr 30), according to law enforcement officials. Around two dozen protesters were arrested, who as per the police tried to prevent officers from entering the campus, the official said.

More than 100 protesters were arrested at the Columbia University and City College of New York on Tuesday (Apr 30), according to law enforcement officials. Around two dozen protesters were arrested, who as per the police tried to prevent officers from entering the campus, the official said. New York City police moved in on Columbia University late Tuesday (Apr 30), encountering dozens of pro-Palestinian protesters still occupying parts of the campus. In a letter addressed to the New York Police Department, Columbia University president Minouche Shafik said that the occupation of the school building was being led by "individuals who are not affiliated with the University" and asked "NYPD's help to clear all individuals from Hamilton Hall and all campus encampments." She also asked the police to remain on campus through at least May 17, "to ensure encampments are not reestablished." Commencement is scheduled for May 15. Following authorisation from Columbia University, the New York Police Department deployed officers to the university campus. After entering the campus, a contingent of police officers approached Hamilton Hall, the administration building that students began occupying in the morning. "We’re clearing it out," police officers yelled as they marched up to the barricaded entrance of Hamilton Hall, an academic building that protesters had broken into and seized control of in the early morning hours of Tuesday. A long line of police officers was seen climbing into the building through a second-storey window, using a vehicle with a ladder to gain access to the upper floor. Also read: Israeli forces will enter Rafah ‘with or without’ Gaza hostage deal: Netanyahu Students had disobediently set up tents again after police cleared an encampment at the university on April 18 and arrested more than 100 people. The students had been protesting on the Manhattan campus since the previous day, opposing Israeli military action in Gaza and demanding the school divest from companies they claim are profiting from the conflict. Over the past two weeks, campus protests across at least nine states, including Texas, Utah, and California, have resulted in over 1,000 arrests, some following confrontations between protesters and police in riot gear. “Walk away from this situation now and continue your advocacy through other means,” New York City Mayor Eric Adams advised the Columbia protesters on Tuesday afternoon. “This must end now.” Biden condemns use of term ‘intifada’ at college protest The White House condemned the takeover of a Columbia University building by pro-Palestinian protesters and the use of the term ‘intifada’ during the protest inside the college campus. The protesters hung a banner down the building which read ‘INTIFADA,’ the Arabic word for rebellion or uprising. "President Biden has stood against repugnant, antisemitic smears and violent rhetoric his entire life," Andrew Bates, a White House assistant press secretary, said in a statement. "He condemns the use of the term 'intifada,' as he has the other tragic and dangerous hate speech displayed in recent days." Also read: Northwestern University reaches deal with pro-Palestinian protesters to end encampment on campus National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said, “President Joe Biden believes students occupying an academic building is definitely the wrong approach and does not represent a peaceful protest.” Other colleges have sought to negotiate agreements with the demonstrators in the hopes of having peaceful commencement ceremonies. Northwestern University achieved a resolution by agreeing with student and faculty protesters on its campus. This agreement allows peaceful demonstrations to continue for the remainder of the spring semester. Also read: Columbia student protesters seize university building, White House condemns Columbia has warned that students occupying the building face expulsion. The university outlined in a press update on Tuesday that those in the encampments and Hamilton Hall number in the dozens, while nearly 37,000 attend Columbia. The Gaza war started when Hamas militants staged an unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7 that left around 1,170 people dead, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures. During their attack, militants also seized hostages, 129 of whom Israel estimates remain in Gaza, including 34 whom the military says are dead. Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 34,535 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. (With inputs from agencies)

NYPD removes pro-Palestinian protesters from Columbia University, dozens arrested

Top US diplomat Antony Blinken urged Hamas to accept a truce in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to send troops into its far southern city of Rafah.

Washington has heightened pressure on all sides to reach a ceasefire -- a message pushed by Blinken, who was on his seventh regional tour since the Gaza war broke out in October.

An Israeli official told AFP that the government "will wait for answers until Wednesday night", and then "make a decision" whether to send a delegation to indirect talks being brokered by US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators in Cairo.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-police-enter-columbia-building-barricaded-by-students-as-protests-716835">NYPD removes pro-Palestinian protesters from Columbia University, arrests made</a>

The Palestinian militant group said it was considering a plan for a 40-day ceasefire and the exchange of scores of hostages for larger numbers of Palestinian prisoners.

Hamas, whose envoys returned from Cairo talks to their base in Qatar, would "discuss the ideas and the proposal", said a Hamas source, adding: "We are keen to respond as quickly as possible."

Blinken put the ball squarely in Hamas's court.

"There is a very strong proposal on the table right now. Hamas needs to say yes, and needs to get this done," he said.

But analysts questioned whether Hamas would sign up to another temporary ceasefire like the week-long truce that saw more than 100 hostages released in November, knowing that Israeli troops could resume their onslaught as soon as it was over.

"I'm pessimistic about the option of Hamas agreeing to a deal that doesn't have a permanent&nbsp;ceasefire baked into it," said Mairav Zonszein, senior analyst on Israel-Palestine at the International Crisis Group.

Zonszein said the three countries brokering the truce talks had their own reasons for trying to bounce the warring parties into a deal.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-will-enter-rafah-with-or-without-gaza-hostage-deal-says-netanyahu-716734" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-will-enter-rafah-with-or-without-gaza-hostage-deal-says-netanyahu-716734&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiJlruhmeyFAxWlUGwGHU6fAH0QFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2EnvTW7xUlz5tSpCxBWH_L&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-will-enter-rafah-with-or-without-gaza-hostage-deal-says-netanyahu-716734" target="_blank">Israeli&nbsp;forces will enter Rafah 'with or without' Gaza hostage deal</a>

"The US and Egypt and Qatar all have very strong interests of their own, for various&nbsp; reasons, why they're trying very hard now to pressure both sides into agreeing to a deal."

"And I think they believe that if they're able to get an initial deal and a pause, that they can try to build on that," he said.

Rafah differences

Hours before Blinken landed in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu fired a shot across his bows, vowing to send Israeli ground troops into Rafah despite repeated US warnings of the potential for heavy casualties among the 1.5 million civilians sheltering in the city.

"We will enter Rafah and we will eliminate the Hamas battalions there with or without a deal," the right-wing premier told hostage families, his office said.

Ahead of what promised to be a difficult meeting with Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Blinken too met privately with hostage relatives in Tel Aviv.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-air-strikes-on-rafah-killing-at-least-13-people-hours-before-ceasefire-talks-716049" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-air-strikes-on-rafah-killing-at-least-13-people-hours-before-ceasefire-talks-716049&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiJlruhmeyFAxWlUGwGHU6fAH0QFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3udA0Zf4d_kiTMQ-wGZD4D&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-air-strikes-on-rafah-killing-at-least-13-people-hours-before-ceasefire-talks-716049" target="_blank">Israel&nbsp;launches air strikes on Rafah killing at least 13 people</a>

In rare scenes for the top US diplomat, who has faced furore at home and abroad over the administration's support for Israel in its campaign against Hamas, Blinken was greeted outside his Tel Aviv hotel by Israeli demonstrators waving US flags.&nbsp;

Blinken told them that freeing the hostages was "at the heart of everything we're trying to do".&nbsp;

As per estimates, 129 Israelis remain captive in Gaza, 34 of whom are presumed dead.

Many of their families have expressed hope that US pressure may force Netanyahu to agree to a deal for their release.

More routes for aid

On the previous leg of his regional tour in Jordan, Blinken said a Gaza truce and the redoubling of aid deliveries went hand in hand.

A truce is "the most effective way to relieve the suffering" of civilians in Gaza, he told reporters near Amman.

Blinken saw off a first Jordanian truck convoy of aid heading to Gaza through the Erez crossing reopened by Israel.

"It is real and important progress, but more still needs to be done," he said.

UN agencies have warned that without urgent intervention, famine looms in Gaza, particularly in northern areas which are hardest to reach.

A US-built floating pier on Gaza's coast is expected to be completed later this week, said Cyprus, the departure point for the planned "maritime corridor".

Blinken said the pier would "significantly increase the assistance" but was not "a substitute" for greater overland access.

In northern Gaza's Beit Lahia, across from Erez crossing, 24-year-old farmer Yussef Abu Rabih was replanting plots he said had been "completely destroyed" by the fighting.

"We decided to return to farming despite difficult conditions and scarce resources" after suffering "severe hunger", he told AFP.

'Unbearable escalation'

The war started after Hamas's October 7 attack on southern Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 34,568 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory.

Washington has strongly backed its ally Israel but also pressured it to refrain from a ground invasion of Rafah, which is packed with displaced civilians.

Calev Ben-Dor, a former analyst for the Israeli foreign ministry and now deputy editor for specialised review Fathom, told AFP that Netanyahu's "Rafah comments likely have more to do with trying to keep his coalition intact, rather than operational plans in the near term".

The prime minister "is feeling the squeeze between the Biden administration" and far-right members of his government who have vehemently opposed the proposed truce, Ben-Dor said.

UN chief Antonio Guterres said an Israeli assault on Rafah would "be an unbearable escalation, killing thousands more civilians and forcing hundreds of thousands to flee". 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Top US diplomat Antony Blinken urged Hamas to accept a truce in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to send troops into its far southern city of Rafah.

Top US diplomat Antony Blinken urged Hamas to accept a truce in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to send troops into its far southern city of Rafah. Washington has heightened pressure on all sides to reach a ceasefire -- a message pushed by Blinken, who was on his seventh regional tour since the Gaza war broke out in October. An Israeli official told AFP that the government "will wait for answers until Wednesday night", and then "make a decision" whether to send a delegation to indirect talks being brokered by US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators in Cairo. Also read: NYPD removes pro-Palestinian protesters from Columbia University, arrests made The Palestinian militant group said it was considering a plan for a 40-day ceasefire and the exchange of scores of hostages for larger numbers of Palestinian prisoners. Hamas, whose envoys returned from Cairo talks to their base in Qatar, would "discuss the ideas and the proposal", said a Hamas source, adding: "We are keen to respond as quickly as possible." Blinken put the ball squarely in Hamas's court. "There is a very strong proposal on the table right now. Hamas needs to say yes, and needs to get this done," he said. But analysts questioned whether Hamas would sign up to another temporary ceasefire like the week-long truce that saw more than 100 hostages released in November, knowing that Israeli troops could resume their onslaught as soon as it was over. "I'm pessimistic about the option of Hamas agreeing to a deal that doesn't have a permanent ceasefire baked into it," said Mairav Zonszein, senior analyst on Israel-Palestine at the International Crisis Group. Zonszein said the three countries brokering the truce talks had their own reasons for trying to bounce the warring parties into a deal. Also read: Israeli forces will enter Rafah 'with or without' Gaza hostage deal "The US and Egypt and Qatar all have very strong interests of their own, for various reasons, why they're trying very hard now to pressure both sides into agreeing to a deal." "And I think they believe that if they're able to get an initial deal and a pause, that they can try to build on that," he said. Rafah differences Hours before Blinken landed in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu fired a shot across his bows, vowing to send Israeli ground troops into Rafah despite repeated US warnings of the potential for heavy casualties among the 1.5 million civilians sheltering in the city. "We will enter Rafah and we will eliminate the Hamas battalions there with or without a deal," the right-wing premier told hostage families, his office said. Ahead of what promised to be a difficult meeting with Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Blinken too met privately with hostage relatives in Tel Aviv. Also read: Israel launches air strikes on Rafah killing at least 13 people In rare scenes for the top US diplomat, who has faced furore at home and abroad over the administration's support for Israel in its campaign against Hamas, Blinken was greeted outside his Tel Aviv hotel by Israeli demonstrators waving US flags. Blinken told them that freeing the hostages was "at the heart of everything we're trying to do". As per estimates, 129 Israelis remain captive in Gaza, 34 of whom are presumed dead. Many of their families have expressed hope that US pressure may force Netanyahu to agree to a deal for their release. More routes for aid On the previous leg of his regional tour in Jordan, Blinken said a Gaza truce and the redoubling of aid deliveries went hand in hand. A truce is "the most effective way to relieve the suffering" of civilians in Gaza, he told reporters near Amman. Blinken saw off a first Jordanian truck convoy of aid heading to Gaza through the Erez crossing reopened by Israel. "It is real and important progress, but more still needs to be done," he said. UN agencies have warned that without urgent intervention, famine looms in Gaza, particularly in northern areas which are hardest to reach. A US-built floating pier on Gaza's coast is expected to be completed later this week, said Cyprus, the departure point for the planned "maritime corridor". Blinken said the pier would "significantly increase the assistance" but was not "a substitute" for greater overland access. In northern Gaza's Beit Lahia, across from Erez crossing, 24-year-old farmer Yussef Abu Rabih was replanting plots he said had been "completely destroyed" by the fighting. "We decided to return to farming despite difficult conditions and scarce resources" after suffering "severe hunger", he told AFP. 'Unbearable escalation' The war started after Hamas's October 7 attack on southern Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures. Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 34,568 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory. Washington has strongly backed its ally Israel but also pressured it to refrain from a ground invasion of Rafah, which is packed with displaced civilians. Calev Ben-Dor, a former analyst for the Israeli foreign ministry and now deputy editor for specialised review Fathom, told AFP that Netanyahu's "Rafah comments likely have more to do with trying to keep his coalition intact, rather than operational plans in the near term". The prime minister "is feeling the squeeze between the Biden administration" and far-right members of his government who have vehemently opposed the proposed truce, Ben-Dor said. UN chief Antonio Guterres said an Israeli assault on Rafah would "be an unbearable escalation, killing thousands more civilians and forcing hundreds of thousands to flee". (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken urges Hamas to accept Gaza truce as he meets Israel leaders

The US State Department has identified five Israeli military units as being responsible for serious human rights violations in specific incidents but stated that these units will still receive US military support.&nbsp;

Notably, all the incidents occurred outside of Gaza before the current war. Israel took corrective measures in four units, giving additional information on the fifth, according to the department.

This implies that all the units are still eligible for US military assistance. US is Israel's main military backer, supplying it with $3.8bn (£3bn) worth of weapons and defence systems per year.

State Department spokesman Vedant Patel said that five security forces units committed gross violations of human rights.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/columbia-university-suspends-student-protesters-for-defiance-of-ultimatum-to-disperse-716450">Columbia University suspends student protesters for defiance of deadline</a>

"Four of the Israeli units have effectively remediated these violations, which is what we expect partners to do," he said and added, “For a remaining unit, we are in consultations and engagements with the government of Israel; they have submitted additional information as it pertains to that unit."

The department disproves allegations that it caved to political pressure by continuing to provide military assistance to the unit, despite not being able to confirm whether any accountability measures had been taken in the case.

"We are engaging with them in a process, and we will make an ultimate decision when it comes to that unit when that process is complete," said Patel.

All the incidents are believed to have taken place in the occupied West Bank and Jerusalem in recent years. 
It is worth mentioning that under America's ‘Leahy Law’, sponsored in 1997 by then-Senator Patrick Leahy, a finding that a foreign military unit has committed serious human rights violations can result in the suspension of its eligibility for US military assistance.

The US government says it considers torture, extrajudicial killing, enforced disappearance and rape as such types of violations when implementing the Leahy law.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-gets-40-day-ceasefire-amid-renewed-airstrikes-on-rafah-by-israel-716335">Hamas gets 40-day ceasefire offer amid airstrikes on Rafah by Israel</a>

Even when there is such a finding, there is an exception to cutting military assistance if the state department is satisfied the cases have been dealt with and justice pursued by the government involved.

It says Israel did do this - so-called remediation - in four of the five units. However, the department declined to give any details of the incidents.

The United States was reportedly about to announce that it would halt military aid to a fifth Israeli military unit, but it has since stated that new information from Israel will delay a final decision.

The unit in question is widely believed to be the Netzah Yehuda battalion, a special unit established in 1999 for ultra-Orthodox Jewish men to serve.

Israel investigated this battalion in connection with the death of Omar Assad, an 80-year-old Palestinian-American who died after being bound and gagged by soldiers during a search in a West Bank village in 2022.

At the time, the US called for a thorough criminal investigation and full accountability.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-five-israeli-units-committed-abuse-before-hamas-attack-716423">US says five Israeli units committed abuse before Hamas attack</a>

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) later said they regretted Mr Assad's death, and a commander would be "reprimanded" and two soldiers barred from senior positions for two years - but would not be prosecuted.

When asked about reports an IDF unit could be the first ever to face the US government designation under the Leahy Law, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on 19 April, "I made determinations. You can expect to see them in the days ahead."

(With inputs from agencies)

The US State Department has identified five Israeli military units as being responsible for serious human rights violations in specific incidents but stated that these units will still receive US military support.

The US State Department has identified five Israeli military units as being responsible for serious human rights violations in specific incidents but stated that these units will still receive US military support. Notably, all the incidents occurred outside of Gaza before the current war. Israel took corrective measures in four units, giving additional information on the fifth, according to the department. This implies that all the units are still eligible for US military assistance. US is Israel's main military backer, supplying it with $3.8bn (£3bn) worth of weapons and defence systems per year. State Department spokesman Vedant Patel said that five security forces units committed gross violations of human rights. Also read: Columbia University suspends student protesters for defiance of deadline "Four of the Israeli units have effectively remediated these violations, which is what we expect partners to do," he said and added, “For a remaining unit, we are in consultations and engagements with the government of Israel; they have submitted additional information as it pertains to that unit." The department disproves allegations that it caved to political pressure by continuing to provide military assistance to the unit, despite not being able to confirm whether any accountability measures had been taken in the case. "We are engaging with them in a process, and we will make an ultimate decision when it comes to that unit when that process is complete," said Patel. All the incidents are believed to have taken place in the occupied West Bank and Jerusalem in recent years. It is worth mentioning that under America's ‘Leahy Law’, sponsored in 1997 by then-Senator Patrick Leahy, a finding that a foreign military unit has committed serious human rights violations can result in the suspension of its eligibility for US military assistance. The US government says it considers torture, extrajudicial killing, enforced disappearance and rape as such types of violations when implementing the Leahy law. Also read: Hamas gets 40-day ceasefire offer amid airstrikes on Rafah by Israel Even when there is such a finding, there is an exception to cutting military assistance if the state department is satisfied the cases have been dealt with and justice pursued by the government involved. It says Israel did do this - so-called remediation - in four of the five units. However, the department declined to give any details of the incidents. The United States was reportedly about to announce that it would halt military aid to a fifth Israeli military unit, but it has since stated that new information from Israel will delay a final decision. The unit in question is widely believed to be the Netzah Yehuda battalion, a special unit established in 1999 for ultra-Orthodox Jewish men to serve. Israel investigated this battalion in connection with the death of Omar Assad, an 80-year-old Palestinian-American who died after being bound and gagged by soldiers during a search in a West Bank village in 2022. At the time, the US called for a thorough criminal investigation and full accountability. Also read: US says five Israeli units committed abuse before Hamas attack The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) later said they regretted Mr Assad's death, and a commander would be "reprimanded" and two soldiers barred from senior positions for two years - but would not be prosecuted. When asked about reports an IDF unit could be the first ever to face the US government designation under the Leahy Law, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on 19 April, "I made determinations. You can expect to see them in the days ahead." (With inputs from agencies)

US claims Israeli military units violated human rights

On Monday (Apr 29), the representatives from Hamas, Qatar and Egypt met in Cairo after the proposal for a second truce in Gaza was given to Hamas along with a fresh plan for release of hostages. US President Joe Biden called on the leaders of Qatar and Egypt to make all efforts to secure the release of hostages.

In other news,&nbsp;Columbia University started suspending students who were found involved in the demonstrations that have marred the campus, after the deadline given to disperse was defied.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Philippines said the China Coast Guard fired water cannon at two of its vessels, causing damage to one of them, during a patrol near a reef off the Southeast Asian country.

Click on the links to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-egypt-qatar-agree-to-exert-all-efforts-for-hostage-release-ceasefire-deal-716469">US, Egypt, Qatar to 'exert all efforts' for hostage release, ceasefire deal</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/30/428293-us-qatar-1.png?imwidth=400" />

United States President Joe Biden called on the leaders of Qatar and Egypt on Monday (April 29) to&nbsp;"exert all efforts"&nbsp;to secure the release of&nbsp;hostages&nbsp;who have been held captive by Hamas in the Gaza Strip so that the ceasefire deal&nbsp;is achieved, stated the White House.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/columbia-university-suspends-student-protesters-for-defiance-of-ultimatum-to-disperse-716450">Columbia University suspends student protesters for defiance of deadline</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/30/428281-us-campus-protests-1.png?imwidth=400" />

Columbia University, which has been the epicentre of pro-Palestinian protests that have started at various US colleges, started suspending students who were found involved in the demonstrations which have marred the campus after the deadline given to disperse was defied and unheeded.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/outgunned-but-not-too-late-nato-chief-says-ukraine-can-still-prevail-over-russia-716463">Outgunned, 'but not too late': NATO chief says Ukraine can still 'prevail'</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/30/428288-new-wion-2024-04-30t081350117.jpg?imwidth=400" />

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Monday (Apr 29) expressed optimism that it was "not too late" for Ukraine to win its ongoing conflict with Russia, despite the significant challenges the war-torn nation faces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-coast-guard-expels-philippine-vessels-from-scarborough-shoal-state-media-says-716496">Philippines accuses China Coast Guard of firing water cannons at vessels</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/30/428312-untitled-design-2024-04-30t094638908.png?imwidth=400" />

China's coast guard said on Tuesday (Apr 30) it barred a Philippine coast guard ship and another vessel from waters adjacent to the Scarborough Shoal, reported the Chinese state media.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-netanyahu-faces-hostage-dilemma-truce-deal-or-rafah-assault-716468">Israel-hamas war: Netanyahu faces hostage dilemma | Truce deal or Rafah assault?</a>

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On Monday (Apr 29), the representatives from Hamas, Qatar and Egypt met in Cairo after the proposal for a second truce in Gaza was given to Hamas along with a fresh plan for release of hostages.

On Monday (Apr 29), the representatives from Hamas, Qatar and Egypt met in Cairo after the proposal for a second truce in Gaza was given to Hamas along with a fresh plan for release of hostages. US President Joe Biden called on the leaders of Qatar and Egypt to make all efforts to secure the release of hostages. In other news, Columbia University started suspending students who were found involved in the demonstrations that have marred the campus, after the deadline given to disperse was defied. Meanwhile, Philippines said the China Coast Guard fired water cannon at two of its vessels, causing damage to one of them, during a patrol near a reef off the Southeast Asian country. Click on the links to read more. US, Egypt, Qatar to 'exert all efforts' for hostage release, ceasefire deal United States President Joe Biden called on the leaders of Qatar and Egypt on Monday (April 29) to "exert all efforts" to secure the release of hostages who have been held captive by Hamas in the Gaza Strip so that the ceasefire deal is achieved, stated the White House. Columbia University suspends student protesters for defiance of deadline Columbia University, which has been the epicentre of pro-Palestinian protests that have started at various US colleges, started suspending students who were found involved in the demonstrations which have marred the campus after the deadline given to disperse was defied and unheeded. Outgunned, 'but not too late': NATO chief says Ukraine can still 'prevail' NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Monday (Apr 29) expressed optimism that it was "not too late" for Ukraine to win its ongoing conflict with Russia, despite the significant challenges the war-torn nation faces. Philippines accuses China Coast Guard of firing water cannons at vessels China's coast guard said on Tuesday (Apr 30) it barred a Philippine coast guard ship and another vessel from waters adjacent to the Scarborough Shoal, reported the Chinese state media. Israel-hamas war: Netanyahu faces hostage dilemma | Truce deal or Rafah assault? ×

Morning brief: US presses Egypt, Qatar on Gaza truce; Columbia Uni suspends protesters, and more

Hamas released a video featuring Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin on Wednesday (Apr 24), marking the initial evidence of his survival after being severely injured during his capture on October 7.

Goldberg-Polin, aged 23 at the time, was seized from the Nova music festival amidst Hamas' attack on Israel, which resulted in over 1,200 casualties and the abduction of more than 200 individuals.

In the video, Goldberg-Polin is seen missing a substantial portion of his left arm. Previous footage from October 7 showed him being taken hostage with his arm severely wounded.&nbsp;

Goldberg-Polin is seated, occasionally gesturing with his injured arm as he addresses the camera. He introduces himself, providing his date of birth and parents' names, in the video. He mentioned that nearly 200 days have passed since he was captured which indicates that the video was shot before April 23, the 200th day of the war.

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The Goldberg-Polin family has given permission for the propaganda video released by the Hamas jihadi death cult to be shared. 
 
They want the world to see the horrors their beloved Hersh has endured. He was abducted from the Nova music festival on October 7 after his arm was blown… <a href="https://t.co/yK8J9UYVPr">pic.twitter.com/yK8J9UYVPr</a>
— Aviva Klompas (@AvivaKlompas) <a href="https://twitter.com/AvivaKlompas/status/1783173162257002910?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Goldberg-Polin, like other Israeli hostages in Hamas propaganda videos, voiced criticism towards the Israeli government, particularly Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

He urged his family to remain resilient and extended wishes, especially for the Jewish holiday of Passover.

The Biden administration received the video two days before its public release and&nbsp;initiated contact with Goldberg-Polin's family. The FBI is currently analysing the video for potential evidence related to Goldberg-Polin's captivity.

Goldberg-Polin's parents expressed relief at seeing him alive but voiced concern for his well-being and that of other hostages.

His family demanded immediate action for his release, along with other hostages still detained in Gaza.&nbsp;

“Seeing the video of Hersh today is overwhelming. We are relieved to see him alive, but we are also concerned about his health and wellbeing as well as that of all the other hostages and all of those suffering in this region,” his parents said in a video statement.

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"Hersh, we heard your voice today for the first time in 201 days and if you can hear us, we are telling you, we love you, stay strong, survive." 
 
Hersh's parents released this message in response to the hostage video of Hersh. <a href="https://t.co/RznOuZZ3Cb">pic.twitter.com/RznOuZZ3Cb</a>
— Aviva Klompas (@AvivaKlompas) <a href="https://twitter.com/AvivaKlompas/status/1783190883384348880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

They added, “Hersh, we heard your voice today for the first time in 201 days. If you can hear us, know that we love you. Stay strong, survive.” 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas released a video featuring Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin on Wednesday (Apr 24), marking the initial evidence of his survival after being severely injured during his capture on October 7.

Hamas released a video featuring Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin on Wednesday (Apr 24), marking the initial evidence of his survival after being severely injured during his capture on October 7. Goldberg-Polin, aged 23 at the time, was seized from the Nova music festival amidst Hamas' attack on Israel, which resulted in over 1,200 casualties and the abduction of more than 200 individuals. In the video, Goldberg-Polin is seen missing a substantial portion of his left arm. Previous footage from October 7 showed him being taken hostage with his arm severely wounded. Goldberg-Polin is seated, occasionally gesturing with his injured arm as he addresses the camera. He introduces himself, providing his date of birth and parents' names, in the video. He mentioned that nearly 200 days have passed since he was captured which indicates that the video was shot before April 23, the 200th day of the war. The Goldberg-Polin family has given permission for the propaganda video released by the Hamas jihadi death cult to be shared. They want the world to see the horrors their beloved Hersh has endured. He was abducted from the Nova music festival on October 7 after his arm was blown… pic.twitter.com/yK8J9UYVPr — Aviva Klompas (@AvivaKlompas) April 24, 2024 × Goldberg-Polin, like other Israeli hostages in Hamas propaganda videos, voiced criticism towards the Israeli government, particularly Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He urged his family to remain resilient and extended wishes, especially for the Jewish holiday of Passover. The Biden administration received the video two days before its public release and initiated contact with Goldberg-Polin's family. The FBI is currently analysing the video for potential evidence related to Goldberg-Polin's captivity. Goldberg-Polin's parents expressed relief at seeing him alive but voiced concern for his well-being and that of other hostages. His family demanded immediate action for his release, along with other hostages still detained in Gaza. “Seeing the video of Hersh today is overwhelming. We are relieved to see him alive, but we are also concerned about his health and wellbeing as well as that of all the other hostages and all of those suffering in this region,” his parents said in a video statement. "Hersh, we heard your voice today for the first time in 201 days and if you can hear us, we are telling you, we love you, stay strong, survive." Hersh's parents released this message in response to the hostage video of Hersh. pic.twitter.com/RznOuZZ3Cb — Aviva Klompas (@AvivaKlompas) April 24, 2024 × They added, “Hersh, we heard your voice today for the first time in 201 days. If you can hear us, know that we love you. Stay strong, survive.” (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas releases video of American-Israeli hostage in first proof of his survival after October attack

According to Axios, the Biden administration may announce sanctions against the IDF's Netzah Yehuda battalion for alleged human rights violations against Palestinians in the West Bank for the first time.

According to Axios, the Biden administration may announce sanctions against the IDF's Netzah Yehuda battalion for alleged human rights violations against Palestinians in the West Bank for the first time. The IDF's Netzah Yehuda group has previously been at the heart of various controversies involving right-wing extremism and violence against Palestinians. The battalion was relocated out of the West Bank in December 2022, however, Israel denied this was due to their conduct, and it has since operated mostly in the country's north. It has been deployed to the Gaza Strip as part of the ongoing conflict against Hamas. According to sources, sanctions would prohibit the supply of US weaponry to the primarily ultra-Orthodox infantry unit, as well as block its men from training with US forces or participating in any activity funded by the US under the Leahy Laws. Here's how Israeli officials and the prime minister reacted to the news: "Sanctions must not be imposed on the Israel Defense Forces! In recent weeks, I have been working against the imposition of sanctions on Israeli citizens, including in my conversations with senior American government officials. At a time when our soldiers are fighting the monsters of terror, the intention to impose a sanction on a unit in the IDF is the height of absurdity and a moral low. The government headed by me will act by all means against these moves," PM Netanyahu wrote. גדוד נצח יהודה הוא חלק בלתי נפרד מצה״ל. הוא כפוף לחוק הצבאי, והוא פועל בהתאם למשפט הבינלאומי. למדינת ישראל מערכת משפט חזקה ועצמאית, שיודעת לבדוק ולבחון כל הפרת חוק או חריגה מפקודות צה״ל, וכך גם נעשה. יש לי הערכה רבה לידידינו האמריקאים, אבל הטלת סנקציות על היחידה היא תקדים מסוכן,… — בני גנץ - Benny Gantz (@gantzbe) April 20, 2024 × Defence minister Benny Gantz also took to X to voice his opinion on the matter, and wrote, "The Netzah Yehuda Battalion is an integral part of the IDF. It is subject to military law, and it operates by international law." Also read: Benny Gantz leads in preference for Israeli PM, Netanyahu not far behind: Survey The State of Israel has a strong and independent judicial system, which knows how to investigate and examine any violation of the law or deviation from IDF orders, and so we will do. I have great respect for our American friends, but imposing sanctions on the unit is a dangerous precedent, and also sends the wrong message to our common enemies in a time of war. I will work so that this decision does not pass." Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said, "A decision to impose American sanctions on the IDF while Israel is fighting for its existence is absolute madness. We warned that the Biden administration's sanctions against the settlers will continue for the IDF and the entire State of Israel. This is part of a planned move to force the State of Israel to agree to the establishment of a Palestinian state and abandon Israel's security."

US to sanction IDF unit for human rights violations against Palestinians, Netanyahu reacts

US officials announced on Friday (April 19) that the UN World Food Program (WFP) has agreed to participate in delivering humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza.&nbsp;

This involvement could be a breakthrough, as it addresses a key hurdle, the hesitation of many aid groups to distribute supplies directly in Gaza without significant changes from Israel.

After an Israeli military attack on April 1&nbsp;killed seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen, the Netanyahu government&nbsp;received a lot of international flak&nbsp;for failing to provide security to humanitarian workers or allow adequate amounts of aid across its land borders.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-says-us-not-involved-in-any-offensive-operation-713037">Israel vs Iran: Blinken says US ‘not involved in any offensive operation’</a>

Facing criticism over Gaza's humanitarian crisis, President Biden announced in March the US military would build a temporary pier to deliver aid by sea, bypassing land routes controlled by Israel. The UN World Food Program has since agreed to partner on aid distribution.

There was no immediate comment from the WFP on the matter.

Israel promised to open more border crossings into Gaza and increase the flow of aid after its drone strikes killed the seven aid workers, who were delivering food into the Palestinian territory.

The US military will build a modular bridge as part of the maritime route, in hopes that handling the inspection and processing of the aid offshore will speed the distribution to people in Gaza.

Offshore, the Army plans to construct a large floating platform for ships to unload pallets of aid. The aid will then be transported by Army boats to a motorised chain of steel pier or causeway sections, which will be securely anchored to the shore.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vetoes-palestinian-request-for-full-statehood-at-united-nations-712748">US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations</a>

Several Army vessels and Miliary Sealift Command ships are already in the Mediterranean Sea, and are working to prepare and build the platform and pier.

The Pentagon said it could provide somewhere to 2 million meals a day for Gaza residents.

Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, told reporters that US in on track to have the system in place by the end of the month or early May. The actual construction of the pier had been on hold as US and international officials hammered out agreements for the collection and distribution of the aid.

He said the U.S. has been making progress, and that Israel has agreed to provide security on the shore.

(With inputs from agencies)

US officials announced on Friday (April 19) that the UN World Food Program (WFP) has agreed to participate in delivering humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. This involvement could be a breakthrough, as it addresses a key hurdle, the hesitation of many aid groups to distribute supplies directly in Gaza without significant changes from Israel.

US officials announced on Friday (April 19) that the UN World Food Program (WFP) has agreed to participate in delivering humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. This involvement could be a breakthrough, as it addresses a key hurdle, the hesitation of many aid groups to distribute supplies directly in Gaza without significant changes from Israel. After an Israeli military attack on April 1 killed seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen, the Netanyahu government received a lot of international flak for failing to provide security to humanitarian workers or allow adequate amounts of aid across its land borders. Also read: Israel vs Iran: Blinken says US ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ Facing criticism over Gaza's humanitarian crisis, President Biden announced in March the US military would build a temporary pier to deliver aid by sea, bypassing land routes controlled by Israel. The UN World Food Program has since agreed to partner on aid distribution. There was no immediate comment from the WFP on the matter. Israel promised to open more border crossings into Gaza and increase the flow of aid after its drone strikes killed the seven aid workers, who were delivering food into the Palestinian territory. The US military will build a modular bridge as part of the maritime route, in hopes that handling the inspection and processing of the aid offshore will speed the distribution to people in Gaza. Offshore, the Army plans to construct a large floating platform for ships to unload pallets of aid. The aid will then be transported by Army boats to a motorised chain of steel pier or causeway sections, which will be securely anchored to the shore. Also read: US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations Several Army vessels and Miliary Sealift Command ships are already in the Mediterranean Sea, and are working to prepare and build the platform and pier. The Pentagon said it could provide somewhere to 2 million meals a day for Gaza residents. Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, told reporters that US in on track to have the system in place by the end of the month or early May. The actual construction of the pier had been on hold as US and international officials hammered out agreements for the collection and distribution of the aid. He said the U.S. has been making progress, and that Israel has agreed to provide security on the shore. (With inputs from agencies)

UN agency to help in aid distribution in Gaza by sea route, says US

Iranians in Tehran took to the streets after prayers on Friday (April 19) in response to an apparent Israeli attack on Iran.

Earlier on Friday, explosions echoed over the Iranian city of Isfahan in what sources described to be&nbsp;an Israeli attack, but Tehran played down the incident and indicated it had no plans for retaliation - a response that appeared gauged towards averting region-wide war.

The limited scale of the attack and Iran's muted response appeared to signal a successful effort by diplomats who have been working to avert all-out war since an Iranian drone and missile attack on Israel last Saturday (April 13).

Iranian media and officials described a small number of explosions, which they said resulted from air defences hitting three drones over the central Iranian city. Notably, they referred to the incident as an attack by "infiltrators", rather than by Israel, obviating the need for retaliation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-says-us-not-involved-in-any-offensive-operation-713037">US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ after Israel carries out retaliatory attacks against Iran</a>

However, speaking before Friday prayers in Tehran, the Iranian army ground forces commander Kiumars Heydari said, "The Zionist regime should know that if it makes a mistake, this time it will be punished harder and more severely."

Violence between Israel and Iranian proxies across the Middle East has intensified throughout six months of bloodshed in Gaza, raising fears that the longstanding foes' shadow war could spiral into a direct conflict.

Israel had said it would retaliate after Saturday's strikes, the first-ever direct attack on Israel by Iran, which caused no deaths after Israel and its allies shot down hundreds of missiles and drones.

Tehran launched those attacks in response to a presumed Israeli airstrike on April 1 that destroyed a building in Iran's embassy compound in Damascus and killed several Iranian officers including a top general.

Iranians in Tehran took to the streets after prayers on Friday (April 19) in response to an apparent Israeli attack on Iran. Earlier on Friday, explosions echoed over the Iranian city of Isfahan in what sources described to be an Israeli attack, but Tehran played down the incident and indicated it had no plans for retaliation - a response that appeared gauged towards averting region-wide war.

Iranians in Tehran took to the streets after prayers on Friday (April 19) in response to an apparent Israeli attack on Iran. Earlier on Friday, explosions echoed over the Iranian city of Isfahan in what sources described to be an Israeli attack, but Tehran played down the incident and indicated it had no plans for retaliation - a response that appeared gauged towards averting region-wide war. The limited scale of the attack and Iran's muted response appeared to signal a successful effort by diplomats who have been working to avert all-out war since an Iranian drone and missile attack on Israel last Saturday (April 13). Iranian media and officials described a small number of explosions, which they said resulted from air defences hitting three drones over the central Iranian city. Notably, they referred to the incident as an attack by "infiltrators", rather than by Israel, obviating the need for retaliation. Also read: US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ after Israel carries out retaliatory attacks against Iran However, speaking before Friday prayers in Tehran, the Iranian army ground forces commander Kiumars Heydari said, "The Zionist regime should know that if it makes a mistake, this time it will be punished harder and more severely." Violence between Israel and Iranian proxies across the Middle East has intensified throughout six months of bloodshed in Gaza, raising fears that the longstanding foes' shadow war could spiral into a direct conflict. Israel had said it would retaliate after Saturday's strikes, the first-ever direct attack on Israel by Iran, which caused no deaths after Israel and its allies shot down hundreds of missiles and drones. Tehran launched those attacks in response to a presumed Israeli airstrike on April 1 that destroyed a building in Iran's embassy compound in Damascus and killed several Iranian officers including a top general.

Iranians protest after Friday prayers following drone attack on Iran

Hezbollah launched missiles and drones at a military facility in northern Israel in retaliation for Israeli strikes that killed Hezbollah members.

The Hezbollah&nbsp;attack on Wednesday (April 17) at the Israeli military left 14 soldiers wounded.

The military said six of the soldiers were in serious condition. It said it struck the sources of fire after identifying several anti-tank missile and drone launches from Lebanon towards the Bedouin village of Arab al-Aramshe.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/hezbollah-commander-killed-in-israeli-drone-strike-712083">Hezbollah commander killed in Israeli drone strike</a>

According to the Israeli Ynet news site, the soldiers were in a community centre in the village.

It may be mentioned here, that on Tuesday, Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon killed three people, including a Hezbollah field commander.

Ismail Baz, the Hezbollah commander, was killed in a strike targeting a car near the town of Ain Ebel in southern Lebanon, as confirmed by the Israeli military.

Baz was known for his role as the commander of Hezbollah's coastal sector and his involvement in planning attacks, including rocket and anti-tank missile strikes, against Israel.

Israeli forces and Lebanon's armed group Hezbollah have been exchanging fire for over six months in the most serious hostilities since the major war fought in 2006.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plans-new-sanctions-against-iran-hopes-allies-will-follow-footsteps-712071">US plans new sanctions against Iran, hopes allies will follow footsteps</a>

Later on Wednesday, Israel's air force said its fighter jets struck Hezbollah infrastructure north of Baalbek in eastern Lebanon, reaching beyond the southern border region where Israel has focused most of its strikes.

These incidents&nbsp;have escalated after Iran's counterstrike on Israel, involving hundreds of explosive drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles launched on Saturday night. Israeli officials have pledged to retaliate.

At least 370 Lebanese, including more than 240 Hezbollah fighters and 68 civilians, have been killed in the fighting, according to a Reuters tally. Eighteen Israelis, including soldiers and civilians, have also died.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hezbollah launched missiles and drones at a military facility in northern Israel in retaliation for Israeli strikes that killed Hezbollah members. The Hezbollah attack on Wednesday (April 17) at the Israeli military left 14 soldiers wounded.

Hezbollah launched missiles and drones at a military facility in northern Israel in retaliation for Israeli strikes that killed Hezbollah members. The Hezbollah attack on Wednesday (April 17) at the Israeli military left 14 soldiers wounded. The military said six of the soldiers were in serious condition. It said it struck the sources of fire after identifying several anti-tank missile and drone launches from Lebanon towards the Bedouin village of Arab al-Aramshe. Also read: Hezbollah commander killed in Israeli drone strike According to the Israeli Ynet news site, the soldiers were in a community centre in the village. It may be mentioned here, that on Tuesday, Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon killed three people, including a Hezbollah field commander. Ismail Baz, the Hezbollah commander, was killed in a strike targeting a car near the town of Ain Ebel in southern Lebanon, as confirmed by the Israeli military. Baz was known for his role as the commander of Hezbollah's coastal sector and his involvement in planning attacks, including rocket and anti-tank missile strikes, against Israel. Israeli forces and Lebanon's armed group Hezbollah have been exchanging fire for over six months in the most serious hostilities since the major war fought in 2006. Also read: US plans new sanctions against Iran, hopes allies will follow footsteps Later on Wednesday, Israel's air force said its fighter jets struck Hezbollah infrastructure north of Baalbek in eastern Lebanon, reaching beyond the southern border region where Israel has focused most of its strikes. These incidents have escalated after Iran's counterstrike on Israel, involving hundreds of explosive drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles launched on Saturday night. Israeli officials have pledged to retaliate. At least 370 Lebanese, including more than 240 Hezbollah fighters and 68 civilians, have been killed in the fighting, according to a Reuters tally. Eighteen Israelis, including soldiers and civilians, have also died. (With inputs from agencies)

Hezbollah launches missiles and drones at Northern Israel, injuring soldiers

The University of Southern California (USC) cancelled valedictorian Asna Tabassum's commencement speech due to security concerns over her pro-Palestine stance, informed Andrew T. Guzman, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs for the private university in Los Angeles.

This decision was backed by pro-Israel groups but criticised by free speech advocates and Muslim civil rights organisations.

Guzman did not reveal&nbsp;whether there had been threats, but said that “we cannot ignore the fact that similar risks have led to harassment and even violence at other campuses.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plans-new-sanctions-against-iran-hopes-allies-will-follow-footsteps-712071">US plans new sanctions against Iran, hopes allies will follow footsteps</a>

“Social media and the ongoing Middle East conflict fueled intense emotions, drawing outside attention and creating a significant risk of disruption and security threats at the ceremony. This dilemma highlights the challenge universities face in balancing free speech with safety, especially as tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict rise with approaching graduation speeches nationwide,” said Guzman.

Zach Greenberg, a lawyer with the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, says universities should avoid cancellations that appear like censorship, particularly for prominent events like commencement speeches.&nbsp;

However, if forced to cancel, Greenberg emphasises transparency. Universities must clearly explain security concerns for "both integrity and public safety," allowing attendees to make informed choices.

Asna Tabassum, who is graduating with a degree in biomedical engineering and a minor in resistance to genocide, expressed shock at USC's decision in a statement released by the Council on American-Islamic Relations. She claims university officials acknowledged having security measures in place but prioritised their public image.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-commander-killed-in-israeli-drone-strike-712083">Hezbollah commander killed in Israeli drone strike</a>

Tabassum emphasised her commitment to human rights and denied any knowledge of specific threats against her or the university, suggesting the decision stemmed from "anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian hatred."

The USC announced its decision the same day pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked roadways in Illinois, California, New York and the Pacific Northwest, temporarily shutting down travel into some of the nation’s most heavily used airports, onto the Golden Gate and Brooklyn bridges and on a busy West Coast highway to demand an immediate ceasefire.

(With inputs from agencies)

The University of Southern California (USC) cancelled valedictorian Asna Tabassum's commencement speech due to security concerns over her pro-Palestine stance, informed Andrew T.

The University of Southern California (USC) cancelled valedictorian Asna Tabassum's commencement speech due to security concerns over her pro-Palestine stance, informed Andrew T. Guzman, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs for the private university in Los Angeles. This decision was backed by pro-Israel groups but criticised by free speech advocates and Muslim civil rights organisations. Guzman did not reveal whether there had been threats, but said that “we cannot ignore the fact that similar risks have led to harassment and even violence at other campuses.” Also read: US plans new sanctions against Iran, hopes allies will follow footsteps “Social media and the ongoing Middle East conflict fueled intense emotions, drawing outside attention and creating a significant risk of disruption and security threats at the ceremony. This dilemma highlights the challenge universities face in balancing free speech with safety, especially as tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict rise with approaching graduation speeches nationwide,” said Guzman. Zach Greenberg, a lawyer with the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, says universities should avoid cancellations that appear like censorship, particularly for prominent events like commencement speeches. However, if forced to cancel, Greenberg emphasises transparency. Universities must clearly explain security concerns for "both integrity and public safety," allowing attendees to make informed choices. Asna Tabassum, who is graduating with a degree in biomedical engineering and a minor in resistance to genocide, expressed shock at USC's decision in a statement released by the Council on American-Islamic Relations. She claims university officials acknowledged having security measures in place but prioritised their public image. Also read: Hezbollah commander killed in Israeli drone strike Tabassum emphasised her commitment to human rights and denied any knowledge of specific threats against her or the university, suggesting the decision stemmed from "anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian hatred." The USC announced its decision the same day pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked roadways in Illinois, California, New York and the Pacific Northwest, temporarily shutting down travel into some of the nation’s most heavily used airports, onto the Golden Gate and Brooklyn bridges and on a busy West Coast highway to demand an immediate ceasefire. (With inputs from agencies)

USC cancels speech by valedictorian advocating for Palestinians, citing safety concerns

Iranian state media has revealed details about the weapons the Middle Eastern nation used in the unprecedented attack on Israel last weekend.&nbsp;

In other news,&nbsp;Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar's detained ex-leader,&nbsp;along with the embattled nation's ousted president, U Win Myint, has been moved from prison to house arrest.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plans-new-sanctions-against-iran-hopes-allies-will-follow-footsteps-712071">US plans new sanctions against Iran, hopes allies will follow footsteps</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/17/425573-wion-banners-prisha-56.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The government of the United States on Tuesday (April 16) said that it will impose new sanctions on Iran's missile and drone programme in the wake of its weekend attack on Israel.&nbsp;Washington DC further stated it is hoping that its allies and partners will follow with parallel measures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-hush-money-trial-case-first-7-jurors-selected-judge-warns-against-intimidation-of-jurors-712069">First 7 jurors selected in Trump's criminal hush money trial case</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/17/425571-donald-trump-2.png?imwidth=400" />

On the second day of former&nbsp;United States president Donald Trump's hush money trial, seven Manhattan residents were selected as jurors.&nbsp;When the selection process took place, the jury's anonymous members were only identified by letters and numbers like B400 and B280 and their identities remained hidden.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inside-irans-attack-weapons-used-in-operation-truthful-promise-against-israel-712105">Inside Iran's attack: Weapons used in 'Operation Truthful Promise' against Israel</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/17/425594-new-wion-2024-04-17t082502785.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Iranian state media has revealed details about the weapons the Middle Eastern nation used in the recent unprecedented attack on Israel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-commander-killed-in-israeli-drone-strike-712083">Myanmar ex-leaders Aung San Suu Kyi and U Win Myint moved from jail to house arrest</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/17/425578-new-wion-2024-04-17t075153798.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar's detained ex-leader,&nbsp;along with the embattled nation's ousted president, U Win Myint, has been moved from prison to house arrest, according to a spokesperson of the Junta military government.

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-attacks-israel-tehran-braces-for-israeli-retaliation-712096">Iran attacks Israel: Tehran braces for Israeli retaliation</a>

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Iranian state media has revealed details about the weapons the Middle Eastern nation used in the unprecedented attack on Israel last weekend. In other news, Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar's detained ex-leader, along with the embattled nation's ousted president, U Win Myint, has been moved from prison to house arrest.

Iranian state media has revealed details about the weapons the Middle Eastern nation used in the unprecedented attack on Israel last weekend. In other news, Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar's detained ex-leader, along with the embattled nation's ousted president, U Win Myint, has been moved from prison to house arrest. US plans new sanctions against Iran, hopes allies will follow footsteps The government of the United States on Tuesday (April 16) said that it will impose new sanctions on Iran's missile and drone programme in the wake of its weekend attack on Israel. Washington DC further stated it is hoping that its allies and partners will follow with parallel measures. First 7 jurors selected in Trump's criminal hush money trial case On the second day of former United States president Donald Trump's hush money trial, seven Manhattan residents were selected as jurors. When the selection process took place, the jury's anonymous members were only identified by letters and numbers like B400 and B280 and their identities remained hidden. Inside Iran's attack: Weapons used in 'Operation Truthful Promise' against Israel Iranian state media has revealed details about the weapons the Middle Eastern nation used in the recent unprecedented attack on Israel. Myanmar ex-leaders Aung San Suu Kyi and U Win Myint moved from jail to house arrest Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar's detained ex-leader, along with the embattled nation's ousted president, U Win Myint, has been moved from prison to house arrest, according to a spokesperson of the Junta military government. Watch: Iran attacks Israel: Tehran braces for Israeli retaliation ×

Morning brief: Weapons used by Iran against Israel; Myanmar's Suu Kyi moved to house arrest; and more

Israel called off on Saturday school trips and other youth activities planned for the coming days, the beginning of the Passover festival, and placed the armed forces on full alert due to a possible attack by Iran.

Announcing the measures in a televised briefing, chief military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said dozens of combat planes were airborne as part of the state of readiness.

Earlier in the day, Israel chief military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said in a statement released by the Israeli army on Saturday&nbsp;that Iran would bear consequences for any escalation in the region.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-teen-found-dead-in-the-west-bank-idf-claims-he-was-murdered-in-terror-attack-710901">Israeli teen found dead in West Bank; IDF claims he was murdered in terror attack</a>

"Iran will bear the consequences for choosing to escalate the situation any further," Hagari said, "Israel is on high alert. We have increased our readiness to protect Israel from further Iranian aggression. We are also prepared to respond."

The statement was sent after the statement was made in reference to the seizure of a vessel between the United Arab Emirates and Iran.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/middle-east-crisis-list-of-countries-that-have-issued-advisory-against-travel-to-israel-palestine-lebanon-710679">Middle East crisis: List of countries that have issued advisory against travel to Israel, Palestine &amp; Iran</a>

United States President Joe Biden said on Friday (Apr 12) that he expected Iran to attack Israel "sooner, rather than later" and warned Tehran not to proceed, the news agency Reuters reported. On being asked by reporters about his message to Iran, President Biden said, "Don't," and underlined Washington's commitment to defend Israel.&nbsp;

"We are devoted to the defence of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed," he added.

Israel called off on Saturday school trips and other youth activities planned for the coming days, the beginning of the Passover festival, and placed the armed forces on full alert due to a possible attack by Iran.

Israel called off on Saturday school trips and other youth activities planned for the coming days, the beginning of the Passover festival, and placed the armed forces on full alert due to a possible attack by Iran. Announcing the measures in a televised briefing, chief military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said dozens of combat planes were airborne as part of the state of readiness. Earlier in the day, Israel chief military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said in a statement released by the Israeli army on Saturday that Iran would bear consequences for any escalation in the region. Also read: Israeli teen found dead in West Bank; IDF claims he was murdered in terror attack "Iran will bear the consequences for choosing to escalate the situation any further," Hagari said, "Israel is on high alert. We have increased our readiness to protect Israel from further Iranian aggression. We are also prepared to respond." The statement was sent after the statement was made in reference to the seizure of a vessel between the United Arab Emirates and Iran. Also read | Middle East crisis: List of countries that have issued advisory against travel to Israel, Palestine & Iran United States President Joe Biden said on Friday (Apr 12) that he expected Iran to attack Israel "sooner, rather than later" and warned Tehran not to proceed, the news agency Reuters reported. On being asked by reporters about his message to Iran, President Biden said, "Don't," and underlined Washington's commitment to defend Israel. "We are devoted to the defence of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed," he added.

Israel calls off school trips, puts forces on full alert amid Iran threat

President Joe Biden in a conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told him that the US won't participate in any counter-strike against Iran, according to media reports.

President Joe Biden in a conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told him that the US won't participate in any counter-strike against Iran, according to media reports. The US President and senior members of his national security team are worried that following the barrage of Iranian missiles and drones directed toward Israel, Israel will take some action that would lead to a regional war. On Saturday (April 13) in a conversation with his Israeli counterpart, Biden sought to frame Israel’s successful interception of the Iranian onslaught as a major victory and suggested that further Israeli response was unnecessary, a senior administration official told CNN. “You got a win. Take the win,” Biden told Netanyahu according to media reports. Biden told the Israeli prime minister in his phone call that he should consider Saturday a win because Iran’s attacks had been largely unsuccessful and demonstrated Israel’s superior military capability, a senior administration official said. Also read: Iran’s drone swarm shows adventurism that hides a diplomatic disaster for the Palestinian cause John Kirby, the White House national security spokesperson, stated that Israel's ability to thwart the assault showed its "military superiority" and that Iran was not the "military power that they claim to be." “This was an incredible success, really proving Israel’s military superiority and just as critically, their diplomatic superiority, that they have friends in the region, that they have around the world that are willing to help them,” he told CNN. “I told him that Israel demonstrated a remarkable capacity to defend against and defeat even unprecedented attacks — sending a clear message to its foes that they cannot effectively threaten the security of Israel,” US President said in a statement following his conversation with Netanyahu. Lloyd Austin, US Defense Secretary told Israel to notify the US ahead of any potential response to the Iranian attack, according to another US official. Why did Iran launch an attack on Israel? Iran launched the attack in retaliation for an airstrike in Syria on April 1 that killed seven Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps members. Israel has not confirmed or disputed responsibility. It was Iran's first-ever direct strike on Israel, using over 300 drones and missiles. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: US won’t be part of Israeli counter-strike on Iran, Joe Biden tells Netanyahu

Israeli military on Saturday (April 13) said the body of an&nbsp;Israeli teenager was found, who went missing in the West Bank.

The 14-year-old Jerusalem resident Benjamin Achimeir was likely killed in a Palestinian attack in the occupied West Bank.

It is worth mentioning here, the teenager went missing on Friday (April 12), when he went out on Friday morning from a farm near the outpost of Malachei Shalom to go shepherding. Few hours later, the sheep returned to the farm without him.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-irgc-seizes-israeli-affiliated-vessel-with-indian-nationals-onboard-710873">Iran's IRGC seizes Israeli-affiliated vessel with Indian nationals onboard</a>

IDF and Shin Bet security agency said in a joint statement that the teen boy was murdered in a terror attack.

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The body of 14-year-old Binyamin Achimair was located in the area of Malachei HaShalom a short while ago. 
 
Binyamin went missing yesterday morning (Friday) and was murdered in a terrorist attack. 
 
Security forces continue the pursuit after those suspected of his murder.
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1779116418459451482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the assailants would be found and punished and he called on Israelis not to get in the way of security forces.

He further said, “the heinous murder” of Achimeir was a “serious crime. I send my heartfelt condolences to his family,” Netanyahu also said in a statement published by his office.”

“We will get the murderers and those who helped them, as we do to anyone who harms the citizens of the State of Israel,” the statement continued.

Earlier on Friday, as Israeli forces searched for the teen overnight, Jewish settlers in the area entered a nearby Palestinian village and set houses and cars ablaze.&nbsp;

One person was killed in that rampage, Palestinian medics said, though it was unclear whether he was shot by Israeli forces or settlers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-expects-iran-to-attack-israel-soon-biden-warns-tehran-not-to-proceed-710687">West Asia crisis: US expects Iran to attack Israel soon, Biden warns Tehran not to proceed</a>

The settlers also blocked entrances to two more towns in the area on Saturday and threw stones at passing vehicles, Palestinian official news agency Wafa said.

Hamas, the Islamist Palestinian group fighting Israeli forces on a mission to crush its militants in Gaza, issued a statement on Saturday urging Palestinians in the West Bank to fight against what it described as "settler militias".

Violence in the West Bank have remained high since October 7, when Hamas burst through the Gaza border into Israel in a Hamas-led attack, killing at least 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and seizing 253 hostages.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli military on Saturday (April 13) said the body of an Israeli teenager was found, who went missing in the West Bank. The 14-year-old Jerusalem resident Benjamin Achimeir was likely killed in a Palestinian attack in the occupied West Bank.

Israeli military on Saturday (April 13) said the body of an Israeli teenager was found, who went missing in the West Bank. The 14-year-old Jerusalem resident Benjamin Achimeir was likely killed in a Palestinian attack in the occupied West Bank. It is worth mentioning here, the teenager went missing on Friday (April 12), when he went out on Friday morning from a farm near the outpost of Malachei Shalom to go shepherding. Few hours later, the sheep returned to the farm without him. Also read: Iran's IRGC seizes Israeli-affiliated vessel with Indian nationals onboard IDF and Shin Bet security agency said in a joint statement that the teen boy was murdered in a terror attack. The body of 14-year-old Binyamin Achimair was located in the area of Malachei HaShalom a short while ago. Binyamin went missing yesterday morning (Friday) and was murdered in a terrorist attack. Security forces continue the pursuit after those suspected of his murder. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) April 13, 2024 × Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the assailants would be found and punished and he called on Israelis not to get in the way of security forces. He further said, “the heinous murder” of Achimeir was a “serious crime. I send my heartfelt condolences to his family,” Netanyahu also said in a statement published by his office.” “We will get the murderers and those who helped them, as we do to anyone who harms the citizens of the State of Israel,” the statement continued. Earlier on Friday, as Israeli forces searched for the teen overnight, Jewish settlers in the area entered a nearby Palestinian village and set houses and cars ablaze. One person was killed in that rampage, Palestinian medics said, though it was unclear whether he was shot by Israeli forces or settlers. Also read: West Asia crisis: US expects Iran to attack Israel soon, Biden warns Tehran not to proceed The settlers also blocked entrances to two more towns in the area on Saturday and threw stones at passing vehicles, Palestinian official news agency Wafa said. Hamas, the Islamist Palestinian group fighting Israeli forces on a mission to crush its militants in Gaza, issued a statement on Saturday urging Palestinians in the West Bank to fight against what it described as "settler militias". Violence in the West Bank have remained high since October 7, when Hamas burst through the Gaza border into Israel in a Hamas-led attack, killing at least 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and seizing 253 hostages. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli teen found dead in West Bank; IDF claims he was murdered in terror attack

Iran's Revolutionary Guards seized an Israeli-linked cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday (April 13), as reported by the Iranian state-run IRNA news agency.

IRNA reported that a Guards helicopter had boarded and taken into Iranian waters the Portuguese-flagged MSC Aries.

Shipping security agencies had earlier reported a vessel being boarded and seized by "regional authorities" in the Hormuz Strait between the United Arab Emirates and Iran.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) pinpointed the seizure location 50 nautical miles northeast of Fujairah, a key port city in the UAE bordering the Strait. While details remain unclear, a British maritime security firm, Ambrey, confirmed a "boarding" incident at the same location.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-expects-iran-to-attack-israel-soon-biden-warns-tehran-not-to-proceed-710687">US expects Iran to attack Israel soon, warns Tehran not to proceed</a>

Marine tracking sites said the vessel was the MSC Aries of Zodiac Maritime, an international shipping company partly owned by Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer.

Iranian authorities did not immediately issue any public statement on the incident.

A US defence official said, "We are aware of the situation reported by UKMTO and we are monitoring it" but would not confirm or deny the name of the vessel when asked if it was the MSC Aries.

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UKMTO WARNING INCIDENT 063 BOARDING UPDATE 
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The naval head of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Alireza Tangsiri said on Tuesday that it could close the Strait of Hormuz if deemed necessary.

He said Iran viewed as a threat Israel's presence in the UAE, with which Israel established diplomatic relations in 2020 as part of the 'Abraham Accords' mediated by the United States.

Tangsiri's statement came&nbsp;amidst escalating tensions in the region. Since Israel-Gaza war began in October, clashes between Israel and US on one side, and Iranian-backed groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen on the other, have become increasingly frequent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/middle-east-crisis-list-of-countries-that-have-issued-advisory-against-travel-to-israel-palestine-lebanon-710679">Middle East crisis: List of countries that have issued advisory against travel to Israel, Palestine &amp; Iran</a>

Iran has threatened to retaliate for suspected Israeli airstrikes on its consulate in Syria's capital Damascus on April 1.

US President Joe Biden said on Friday he expected Iran to attack Israel sooner, rather than later and warned Tehran not to proceed.

For months, Yemen's Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have been disrupting global trade by attacking ships in the Red Sea.&nbsp;

They claim these attacks target vessels linked to Israel in retaliation for its Gaza campaign. In response to these disruptions, the United States and Britain have launched airstrikes against Houthi targets.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Revolutionary Guards seized an Israeli-linked cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday (April 13), as reported by the Iranian state-run IRNA news agency.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards seized an Israeli-linked cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday (April 13), as reported by the Iranian state-run IRNA news agency. IRNA reported that a Guards helicopter had boarded and taken into Iranian waters the Portuguese-flagged MSC Aries. Shipping security agencies had earlier reported a vessel being boarded and seized by "regional authorities" in the Hormuz Strait between the United Arab Emirates and Iran. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) pinpointed the seizure location 50 nautical miles northeast of Fujairah, a key port city in the UAE bordering the Strait. While details remain unclear, a British maritime security firm, Ambrey, confirmed a "boarding" incident at the same location. Also read: US expects Iran to attack Israel soon, warns Tehran not to proceed Marine tracking sites said the vessel was the MSC Aries of Zodiac Maritime, an international shipping company partly owned by Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer. Iranian authorities did not immediately issue any public statement on the incident. A US defence official said, "We are aware of the situation reported by UKMTO and we are monitoring it" but would not confirm or deny the name of the vessel when asked if it was the MSC Aries. UKMTO WARNING INCIDENT 063 BOARDING UPDATE 001https://t.co/6mNrG6W5iO#MaritimeSecurity #MarSec pic.twitter.com/BXD73sutrP — United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) (@UK_MTO) April 13, 2024 × The naval head of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Alireza Tangsiri said on Tuesday that it could close the Strait of Hormuz if deemed necessary. He said Iran viewed as a threat Israel's presence in the UAE, with which Israel established diplomatic relations in 2020 as part of the 'Abraham Accords' mediated by the United States. Tangsiri's statement came amidst escalating tensions in the region. Since Israel-Gaza war began in October, clashes between Israel and US on one side, and Iranian-backed groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen on the other, have become increasingly frequent. Also read | Middle East crisis: List of countries that have issued advisory against travel to Israel, Palestine & Iran Iran has threatened to retaliate for suspected Israeli airstrikes on its consulate in Syria's capital Damascus on April 1. US President Joe Biden said on Friday he expected Iran to attack Israel sooner, rather than later and warned Tehran not to proceed. For months, Yemen's Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have been disrupting global trade by attacking ships in the Red Sea. They claim these attacks target vessels linked to Israel in retaliation for its Gaza campaign. In response to these disruptions, the United States and Britain have launched airstrikes against Houthi targets. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran seizes Israel-linked ship MCS ARIES near Strait of Hormuz

The lack of safe drinking water and rising temperatures are causing a surge in waterborne diseases, residents are receiving far less water than they need, creating a dangerous situation, said the United Nations humanitarian coordinator for Gaza on Friday (April 12).

The UN official emphasised the urgent need for increased water supplies, especially in crowded areas.

"The weather is becoming very hot there," Jamie McGoldrick informed the reporters via video link from Jerusalem.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-advised-not-to-travel-to-iran-and-israel-till-further-notice-710555" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-advised-not-to-travel-to-iran-and-israel-till-further-notice-710555&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjiv5WZ-ryFAxUb-DgGHWVwDKAQFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Rc8ItB5DDQTPoPmZhEgK4&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-advised-not-to-travel-to-iran-and-israel-till-further-notice-710555" target="_blank">Indians advised not to travel to Iran and&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;till further notice</a>

"People are getting very less water than they are in need of, and as a result, there have been waterborne diseases due to lack of safe and clean water and the disruption of the sanitation systems."

"We have to find a way in the months ahead of how we can have a better supply of water into the areas where people are currently crowded at the moment," McGoldrick said, after making his final visit to Gaza at the end of his three-month assignment.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the critical issue of waterborne diseases in Gaza.

Contaminated water and inadequate sanitation systems put residents at risk of illnesses like cholera, diarrhea, dysentery, and hepatitis A.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-likely-to-avoid-major-escalation-in-retaliatory-attack-israel-remains-on-high-alert-710328" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-likely-to-avoid-major-escalation-in-retaliatory-attack-israel-remains-on-high-alert-710328&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjiv5WZ-ryFAxUb-DgGHWVwDKAQFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1uQYy2vp7M3_n5FVwIvYv0&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-likely-to-avoid-major-escalation-in-retaliatory-attack-israel-remains-on-high-alert-710328" target="_blank">Iran to avoid 'major escalation' in retaliatory attack,&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;on 'high alert'</a>

Since last year (mid-October), following the assault on Gaza in response to deadly attacks in southern Israel by Hamas, WHO has recorded more than 345,000 cases of diarrhoea, including more than 105,000 in children under 5.

The sole natural water source for the Gaza Strip is the Coastal Aquifer Basin, stretching from the northern Sinai Peninsula in Egypt along the eastern Mediterranean coast through Gaza and into Israel.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-of-major-iranian-strikes-on-israel-which-will-escalate-the-ongoing-war-710200" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-of-major-iranian-strikes-on-israel-which-will-escalate-the-ongoing-war-710200&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjiv5WZ-ryFAxUb-DgGHWVwDKAQFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3vhsGGj8BLhLGzRqiRlg34&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-of-major-iranian-strikes-on-israel-which-will-escalate-the-ongoing-war-710200" target="_blank">US warns of major Iranian strikes on&nbsp;Israel, raises concerns of war&nbsp;</a>

However, its quality has significantly declined over time due to excessive pumping to meet the needs of Gaza's population, surpassing the replenishment rate from rainwater.

(With inputs from agencies)

The lack of safe drinking water and rising temperatures are causing a surge in waterborne diseases, residents are receiving far less water than they need, creating a dangerous situation, said the United Nations humanitarian coordinator for Gaza on Friday (April 12).

The lack of safe drinking water and rising temperatures are causing a surge in waterborne diseases, residents are receiving far less water than they need, creating a dangerous situation, said the United Nations humanitarian coordinator for Gaza on Friday (April 12). The UN official emphasised the urgent need for increased water supplies, especially in crowded areas. "The weather is becoming very hot there," Jamie McGoldrick informed the reporters via video link from Jerusalem. Also read: Indians advised not to travel to Iran and Israel till further notice "People are getting very less water than they are in need of, and as a result, there have been waterborne diseases due to lack of safe and clean water and the disruption of the sanitation systems." "We have to find a way in the months ahead of how we can have a better supply of water into the areas where people are currently crowded at the moment," McGoldrick said, after making his final visit to Gaza at the end of his three-month assignment. The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the critical issue of waterborne diseases in Gaza. Contaminated water and inadequate sanitation systems put residents at risk of illnesses like cholera, diarrhea, dysentery, and hepatitis A. Also read: Iran to avoid 'major escalation' in retaliatory attack, Israel on 'high alert' Since last year (mid-October), following the assault on Gaza in response to deadly attacks in southern Israel by Hamas, WHO has recorded more than 345,000 cases of diarrhoea, including more than 105,000 in children under 5. The sole natural water source for the Gaza Strip is the Coastal Aquifer Basin, stretching from the northern Sinai Peninsula in Egypt along the eastern Mediterranean coast through Gaza and into Israel. Also read: US warns of major Iranian strikes on Israel, raises concerns of war However, its quality has significantly declined over time due to excessive pumping to meet the needs of Gaza's population, surpassing the replenishment rate from rainwater. (With inputs from agencies)

UN warns of waterborne illnesses in Gaza as clean water dwindles

Israel’s Foreign Minister Katz on Wednesday (April 10) threatened that if Iran launches attacks from its own soil then Israel will strike back inside Iran. This statement came amid increasingly aggressive rhetoric between the two countries.

Earlier, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated&nbsp;that Israel should be punished and it shall be for allegedly attacking an Iranian consular building in Syria’s Damascus, which killed two generals among several Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps officers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-israeli-militarys-use-of-ai-lavender-to-generate-kill-lists-707558" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-israeli-militarys-use-of-ai-lavender-to-generate-kill-lists-707558&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4q_Dvi7WFAxUci68BHb-DDrUQFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw00D1PcV0DbrdfQNrocyky1&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-israeli-militarys-use-of-ai-lavender-to-generate-kill-lists-707558" target="_blank">Explained:&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;military's use of AI tool 'Lavender' to generate kill lists</a>

Katz posted in Hebrew on his social media account on X, “If Iran attacks from its territory; Israel will react and attack in Iran.”

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اگر ایران از خاک خود حمله کند، اسرائیل واکنش نشان داده و در ایران حمله خواهد کرد <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@khamenei_ir</a>
— ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel_katz/status/1777937629096337817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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He then posted the same warning in a Persian-language post and tagged Khamenei’s official X account.

Iran, claiming its aim to eradicate the Jewish state, has developed rockets capable of reaching any part of Israel and has proudly asserted its capacity to launch attacks.

In a significant escalation of Israel’s conflict with regional foes, suspected Israeli warplanes carried out an airstrike on a building in the Syrian capital on April 1. Iran stated that the strike killed seven IRGC military advisers at a consulate site, including Iran’s top commander in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi.

Khamenei condemned the strike, which demolished a five-story building near the Iranian embassy in Syria, stating that it violated international agreements safeguarding diplomatic premises.

“The consulate and embassy offices in any country belong to that country. Attacking a consulate is tantamount to an attack on our territory,” he declared in a speech marking the conclusion of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. “The malicious regime made an error and must face consequences, which it shall,” he added.

However, State TV broadcast Khamenei’s remarks live, but he did not elaborate on how or when Iran would retaliate.

Earlier on Tuesday (April 9), unnamed US intelligence sources informed, that Iran is unlikely to attack Israel directly out of fear of American and Israeli retaliation and will urge its various proxies in the region to launch attacks on its behalf in the coming days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4q_Dvi7WFAxUci68BHb-DDrUQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Xhjvpo6WcPwOPojKJAhV-&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053" target="_blank">Israel&nbsp;kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon</a>

Released on Monday night, the report raised doubts regarding the prior assessments made by both Washington and Jerusalem, suggesting that an attack by Iran was inevitable.

Notably, Israel has remained on high alert recently following threats of retaliation from Iranian officials&nbsp;after the Damascus airstrike that resulted in the death of IRGC's top commander in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi, along with six other members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and at least one member of the Iranian proxy group Hezbollah.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel’s Foreign Minister Katz on Wednesday (April 10) threatened that if Iran launches attacks from its own soil then Israel will strike back inside Iran. This statement came amid increasingly aggressive rhetoric between the two countries.

Israel’s Foreign Minister Katz on Wednesday (April 10) threatened that if Iran launches attacks from its own soil then Israel will strike back inside Iran. This statement came amid increasingly aggressive rhetoric between the two countries. Earlier, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated that Israel should be punished and it shall be for allegedly attacking an Iranian consular building in Syria’s Damascus, which killed two generals among several Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps officers. Also read: Explained: Israeli military's use of AI tool 'Lavender' to generate kill lists Katz posted in Hebrew on his social media account on X, “If Iran attacks from its territory; Israel will react and attack in Iran.” اگر ایران از خاک خود حمله کند، اسرائیل واکنش نشان داده و در ایران حمله خواهد کرد @khamenei_ir — ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) April 10, 2024 × He then posted the same warning in a Persian-language post and tagged Khamenei’s official X account. Iran, claiming its aim to eradicate the Jewish state, has developed rockets capable of reaching any part of Israel and has proudly asserted its capacity to launch attacks. In a significant escalation of Israel’s conflict with regional foes, suspected Israeli warplanes carried out an airstrike on a building in the Syrian capital on April 1. Iran stated that the strike killed seven IRGC military advisers at a consulate site, including Iran’s top commander in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi. Khamenei condemned the strike, which demolished a five-story building near the Iranian embassy in Syria, stating that it violated international agreements safeguarding diplomatic premises. “The consulate and embassy offices in any country belong to that country. Attacking a consulate is tantamount to an attack on our territory,” he declared in a speech marking the conclusion of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. “The malicious regime made an error and must face consequences, which it shall,” he added. However, State TV broadcast Khamenei’s remarks live, but he did not elaborate on how or when Iran would retaliate. Earlier on Tuesday (April 9), unnamed US intelligence sources informed, that Iran is unlikely to attack Israel directly out of fear of American and Israeli retaliation and will urge its various proxies in the region to launch attacks on its behalf in the coming days. Also read: Israel kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon Released on Monday night, the report raised doubts regarding the prior assessments made by both Washington and Jerusalem, suggesting that an attack by Iran was inevitable. Notably, Israel has remained on high alert recently following threats of retaliation from Iranian officials after the Damascus airstrike that resulted in the death of IRGC's top commander in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi, along with six other members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and at least one member of the Iranian proxy group Hezbollah. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel threatens to strike Iran directly if it launches attacks from its own territory

In response to last week's strike in Damascus amidst threats of retaliation from Iranian officials, Israel has allegedly indicated to strike targets within Iran.

Israel is conducting air force exercises, including preparations to target Iranian nuclear facilities and key infrastructure, stated an anonymous Western security official cited by the London-based Elaph News.

Unnamed US intelligence sources informed, that Iran is unlikely to attack Israel directly out of fear of American and Israeli retaliation and will urge its various proxies in the region to launch attacks on its behalf in the coming days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4q_Dvi7WFAxUci68BHb-DDrUQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Xhjvpo6WcPwOPojKJAhV-&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053" target="_blank">Israel&nbsp;kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon</a>

Released on Monday night, the report raised doubts regarding the prior assessments made by both Washington and Jerusalem, suggesting that an attack by Iran was inevitable.

Notably, Israel has remained on high alert recently following threats of retaliation from Iranian officials, followed by Damascus airstrike that resulted in the death of their top commander in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi, along with six other members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and at least one member of the Iranian proxy group Hezbollah.

Israel has abstained from providing any official statements on the issue. Meanwhile, both Damascus and Tehran have accused Israel of being responsible for the attack that occurred last Monday. The New York Times cited four anonymous Israeli officials as confirming that the country was behind the strike.

During a security cabinet meeting last week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made reference to the strike while asserting Israel's commitment to retaliate against any potential Iranian attack.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-israeli-militarys-use-of-ai-lavender-to-generate-kill-lists-707558" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-israeli-militarys-use-of-ai-lavender-to-generate-kill-lists-707558&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4q_Dvi7WFAxUci68BHb-DDrUQFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw00D1PcV0DbrdfQNrocyky1&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-israeli-militarys-use-of-ai-lavender-to-generate-kill-lists-707558" target="_blank">Explained:&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;military's use of AI tool 'Lavender' to generate kill lists</a>

He stated, "Iran has been engaging in actions against us for years, both directly and through allies. As a result, Israel takes defensive and offensive measures against Iran and its proxies."

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah said in a televised remarks last Friday that&nbsp;an Iranian response was coming. 
 
“Be certain, be sure, that the Iranian response to the targeting of the consulate in Damascus is definitely coming against Israel,” he said.

After a review on Sunday (April 7) with top army brass, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said that Israel was ready to respond to any attack by the Islamic Republic, and has completed preparations for a response against any scenario that would develop against Iran.”

Watch:&nbsp;Netanyahu vows to carry out Rafah invasion, says 'there is a date'

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Additionally, Israel is anticipating potential ballistic missile strikes directly from Iran, a threat it has not yet encountered.

Iran, on the other hand, has allegedly placed its military forces on high alert in anticipation of any forthcoming strikes.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

In response to last week's strike in Damascus amidst threats of retaliation from Iranian officials, Israel has allegedly indicated to strike targets within Iran.

In response to last week's strike in Damascus amidst threats of retaliation from Iranian officials, Israel has allegedly indicated to strike targets within Iran. Israel is conducting air force exercises, including preparations to target Iranian nuclear facilities and key infrastructure, stated an anonymous Western security official cited by the London-based Elaph News. Unnamed US intelligence sources informed, that Iran is unlikely to attack Israel directly out of fear of American and Israeli retaliation and will urge its various proxies in the region to launch attacks on its behalf in the coming days. Also read: Israel kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon Released on Monday night, the report raised doubts regarding the prior assessments made by both Washington and Jerusalem, suggesting that an attack by Iran was inevitable. Notably, Israel has remained on high alert recently following threats of retaliation from Iranian officials, followed by Damascus airstrike that resulted in the death of their top commander in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi, along with six other members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and at least one member of the Iranian proxy group Hezbollah. Israel has abstained from providing any official statements on the issue. Meanwhile, both Damascus and Tehran have accused Israel of being responsible for the attack that occurred last Monday. The New York Times cited four anonymous Israeli officials as confirming that the country was behind the strike. During a security cabinet meeting last week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made reference to the strike while asserting Israel's commitment to retaliate against any potential Iranian attack. Also read: Explained: Israeli military's use of AI tool 'Lavender' to generate kill lists He stated, "Iran has been engaging in actions against us for years, both directly and through allies. As a result, Israel takes defensive and offensive measures against Iran and its proxies." Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah said in a televised remarks last Friday that an Iranian response was coming. “Be certain, be sure, that the Iranian response to the targeting of the consulate in Damascus is definitely coming against Israel,” he said. After a review on Sunday (April 7) with top army brass, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said that Israel was ready to respond to any attack by the Islamic Republic, and has completed preparations for a response against any scenario that would develop against Iran.” Watch: Netanyahu vows to carry out Rafah invasion, says 'there is a date' × Additionally, Israel is anticipating potential ballistic missile strikes directly from Iran, a threat it has not yet encountered. Iran, on the other hand, has allegedly placed its military forces on high alert in anticipation of any forthcoming strikes. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel ready to target Iranian nuclear sites in response to Tehran’s potential attack

Israeli police used tear gas to disperse worshippers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem on Saturday (April 6). Earlier on the final Friday prayers of Ramadan, same incident was reported in the Mosque compound.

According to Israeli authorities, thousands of worshippers had assembled for dawn prayers at the Mosque as&nbsp;some&nbsp;began chanting&nbsp;proactive slogans and setting off fireworks near police officers.

The Israeli police statement further details the detainment of 16 Palestinians outside the compound.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-airstrike-unintentionally-killed-aid-workers-in-gaza-allies-demand-explanations-707028">Israel says airstrike unintentionally killed aid workers in Gaza, allies demand explanations</a>

It is worth mentioning that the Al-Aqsa Mosque has been a frequent flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Palestinian worshippers allege that Israeli authorities have limited access to al-Aqsa since the October 7th conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The compound which is located in the heart of the Old City of Jerusalem, is also known as the third holiest shrine to Muslims, known to Jews as Temple Mount.

Israeli airstrike killed aid workers in Gaza

Meanwhile, an Israeli airstrike on April 2 killed seven people working for the aid charity World Central Kitchen in Gaza. The incident prompted&nbsp;US and other allies to call for an&nbsp;explanation from Israel&nbsp;amid widespread condemnation.

Israel's military voiced "sincere sorrow" over the incident, which ratcheted up international pressure for steps to ease the disastrous humanitarian situation in Gaza nearly six months into Israel's siege and invasion of the Palestinian enclave.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charity-questions-credibility-of-israeli-inquiry-findings-on-aid-worker-killings-708219">Charity questions credibility of Israeli inquiry report on killing aid workers</a>

The strike on the World Central Kitchen convoy killed citizens of Australia, Britain and Poland as well as Palestinians and a dual citizen of the United States and Canada.

Increasing Israeli Isolation

Australia, Britain and Poland, countries which have generally been friendly towards Israel, all demanded action to protect aid workers, underlining Netanyahu's increasing diplomatic isolation over the situation in Gaza.

At least 196 humanitarian workers have been killed in Gaza since a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7 triggered Israel's assault on the Hamas-ruled enclave. And the deaths of the WCK staffers were "the inevitable result of the way this war is currently being conducted", UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday.

Asked by reporters what the UN would say to the Israeli government over the airstrike, he said, "The message is: Let humanitarian workers do their job."

Israel has been under rising international pressure to alleviate severe hunger in Gaza, which has been shattered by Israel's offensive against the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas. Much of the densely populated territory has been laid waste and most of its 2.3 million population displaced.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli police used tear gas to disperse worshippers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem on Saturday (April 6). Earlier on the final Friday prayers of Ramadan, same incident was reported in the Mosque compound.

Israeli police used tear gas to disperse worshippers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem on Saturday (April 6). Earlier on the final Friday prayers of Ramadan, same incident was reported in the Mosque compound. According to Israeli authorities, thousands of worshippers had assembled for dawn prayers at the Mosque as some began chanting proactive slogans and setting off fireworks near police officers. The Israeli police statement further details the detainment of 16 Palestinians outside the compound. Also read: Israel says airstrike unintentionally killed aid workers in Gaza, allies demand explanations It is worth mentioning that the Al-Aqsa Mosque has been a frequent flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Palestinian worshippers allege that Israeli authorities have limited access to al-Aqsa since the October 7th conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The compound which is located in the heart of the Old City of Jerusalem, is also known as the third holiest shrine to Muslims, known to Jews as Temple Mount. Israeli airstrike killed aid workers in Gaza Meanwhile, an Israeli airstrike on April 2 killed seven people working for the aid charity World Central Kitchen in Gaza. The incident prompted US and other allies to call for an explanation from Israel amid widespread condemnation. Israel's military voiced "sincere sorrow" over the incident, which ratcheted up international pressure for steps to ease the disastrous humanitarian situation in Gaza nearly six months into Israel's siege and invasion of the Palestinian enclave. Also read: Charity questions credibility of Israeli inquiry report on killing aid workers The strike on the World Central Kitchen convoy killed citizens of Australia, Britain and Poland as well as Palestinians and a dual citizen of the United States and Canada. Increasing Israeli Isolation Australia, Britain and Poland, countries which have generally been friendly towards Israel, all demanded action to protect aid workers, underlining Netanyahu's increasing diplomatic isolation over the situation in Gaza. At least 196 humanitarian workers have been killed in Gaza since a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7 triggered Israel's assault on the Hamas-ruled enclave. And the deaths of the WCK staffers were "the inevitable result of the way this war is currently being conducted", UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday. Asked by reporters what the UN would say to the Israeli government over the airstrike, he said, "The message is: Let humanitarian workers do their job." Israel has been under rising international pressure to alleviate severe hunger in Gaza, which has been shattered by Israel's offensive against the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas. Much of the densely populated territory has been laid waste and most of its 2.3 million population displaced. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli forces fire tear gas on worshipers at Al-Aqsa mosque

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden on Friday urged the leaders of Egypt and Qatar to pressure Hamas militants to agree to a Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal ahead of a fresh round of talks this weekend in Cairo.

CIA Director Bill Burns will lead the US&nbsp;delegation to the Cairo talks, a US&nbsp;official said.

A senior Biden administration official said Biden wrote letters to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, on the state of the hostage talks and "he urged them to secure commitments from Hamas to agree and abide by a deal."

Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday during which they discussed ongoing hostage negotiations and the round of talks in Cairo.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-day-after-biden-netanyahu-call-israeli-military-sacks-two-over-killing-of-aid-workers-708073">Israeli military sacks two officers over killing of aid workers, a day after Biden-Netanyahu call</a>

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said Biden told Netanyahu to empower his negotiators in Cairo so that a deal can be reached as soon as possible.

The United States and its allies view a ceasefire as essential to allowing more humanitarian aid to get into Gaza amid fears of famine among the Palestinians there.

Under the most recent proposal, Israel and Hamas would agree to a six-week ceasefire in exchange for the release of sick, elderly and wounded hostages held by Hamas. Progress on a deal has been stalled for weeks.

"This basic fact remains true: There would be a ceasefire in Gaza today had Hamas simply agreed to release this vulnerable category of hostages – the sick, wounded, elderly, and young women," the senior Biden official said.

"The onus is on Hamas to release the hostages and bring relief to the people of Gaza through a prolonged ceasefire," the official said.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan will meet the families of the hostages at the White House on Monday, the official said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charity-questions-credibility-of-israeli-inquiry-findings-on-aid-worker-killings-708219">Charity questions credibility of Israeli inquiry report on killing aid workers</a>

Kirby said there were no plans by the United States to conduct an independent investigation into the killings of seven World Central Kitchen aid workers in Gaza.

The Israeli military dismissed two officers and formally reprimanded senior commanders after an inquiry into the killing of the aid workers in a Gaza airstrike this week found serious errors and breaches of procedure.

Netanyahu had briefed Biden in their phone call on Thursday on the general findings of Israel's inquiry into the incident. Biden warned Netanyahu that Israel must take steps to address civilian harm and humanitarian suffering or else Washington will take unspecified steps in response.

Israel also announced it was opening the Ashdod port and Erez crossing to increase the flow of aid into Gaza.

Asked if he had threatened to withhold military support for Israel, Biden told reporters on Friday: “I asked them to do what they’re doing."

US President Joe Biden on Friday urged the leaders of Egypt and Qatar to pressure Hamas militants to agree to a Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal ahead of a fresh round of talks this weekend in Cairo.

US President Joe Biden on Friday urged the leaders of Egypt and Qatar to pressure Hamas militants to agree to a Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal ahead of a fresh round of talks this weekend in Cairo. CIA Director Bill Burns will lead the US delegation to the Cairo talks, a US official said. A senior Biden administration official said Biden wrote letters to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, on the state of the hostage talks and "he urged them to secure commitments from Hamas to agree and abide by a deal." Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday during which they discussed ongoing hostage negotiations and the round of talks in Cairo. Also read: Israeli military sacks two officers over killing of aid workers, a day after Biden-Netanyahu call White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said Biden told Netanyahu to empower his negotiators in Cairo so that a deal can be reached as soon as possible. The United States and its allies view a ceasefire as essential to allowing more humanitarian aid to get into Gaza amid fears of famine among the Palestinians there. Under the most recent proposal, Israel and Hamas would agree to a six-week ceasefire in exchange for the release of sick, elderly and wounded hostages held by Hamas. Progress on a deal has been stalled for weeks. "This basic fact remains true: There would be a ceasefire in Gaza today had Hamas simply agreed to release this vulnerable category of hostages – the sick, wounded, elderly, and young women," the senior Biden official said. "The onus is on Hamas to release the hostages and bring relief to the people of Gaza through a prolonged ceasefire," the official said. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan will meet the families of the hostages at the White House on Monday, the official said. Also read: Charity questions credibility of Israeli inquiry report on killing aid workers Kirby said there were no plans by the United States to conduct an independent investigation into the killings of seven World Central Kitchen aid workers in Gaza. The Israeli military dismissed two officers and formally reprimanded senior commanders after an inquiry into the killing of the aid workers in a Gaza airstrike this week found serious errors and breaches of procedure. Netanyahu had briefed Biden in their phone call on Thursday on the general findings of Israel's inquiry into the incident. Biden warned Netanyahu that Israel must take steps to address civilian harm and humanitarian suffering or else Washington will take unspecified steps in response. Israel also announced it was opening the Ashdod port and Erez crossing to increase the flow of aid into Gaza. Asked if he had threatened to withhold military support for Israel, Biden told reporters on Friday: “I asked them to do what they’re doing."

Biden urges Egypt, Qatar to press Hamas on hostage deal ahead of weekend talks

43-year-old Zomi Frankcom, one of the six aid workers with the World Central Kitchen&nbsp;who were&nbsp;killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza along with the Palestinian driver, was of Indian descent, according to reports.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that Frankcom was among those killed and demanded full responsibility from the Israeli Government.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-airstrike-unintentionally-killed-aid-workers-in-gaza-allies-demand-explanations-707028" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-airstrike-unintentionally-killed-aid-workers-in-gaza-allies-demand-explanations-707028&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi6_LH-o6WFAxXZRmwGHTEqAcMQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1MSKKqfUszKHqbbJ_osy45&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-airstrike-unintentionally-killed-aid-workers-in-gaza-allies-demand-explanations-707028" target="_blank">Israel&nbsp;says airstrike unintentionally killed aid workers in Gaza</a>

“This is someone who was volunteering overseas to provide aid through this charity for people who are suffering tremendous deprivation in Gaza. And this is just completely unacceptable. We want full accountability for this because this is a tragedy that should never have occurred,” Albanese said.

Frankcom born to an Australian father and a Mizo mother, was on a mission to provide relief to the people of war-torn northern Gaza when the convoy she was travelling in came under attack, according to media reports.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged that Israeli forces carried out the strike that killed seven aid workers in Gaza.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel admits 'unintentionally' killed 7 aid workers in Gaza

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“Unfortunately there was a tragic episode of an unintentional strike of our forces on innocent people in the Gaza Strip,” he said in a statement on Tuesday (March 2). He said that officials “will do everything for this not to happen again”.

The food charity said it was immediately suspending operations in the region.

“Inspite of coordinating movements with the IDF, the convoy was hit as it was leaving the Deir al-Balah warehouse, the team had unloaded more than 100 tons of humanitarian food aid brought to Gaza on the maritime route,” the statement further said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-warns-israel-will-pay-for-attack-on-irans-damascus-consulate-706691" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-warns-israel-will-pay-for-attack-on-irans-damascus-consulate-706691&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi6_LH-o6WFAxXZRmwGHTEqAcMQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3tUpiTQxJpJ-byiwto91e_&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-warns-israel-will-pay-for-attack-on-irans-damascus-consulate-706691" target="_blank">Hezbollah warns 'Israel&nbsp;will pay' for attack on Iran's Damascus</a>

“This is not only an attack against WCK, this is an attack on humanitarian organizations showing up in the most dire of situations where food is being used as a weapon of war. This is unforgivable,” said WCK CEO Erin Gore.

The seven aid workers killed are from Australia, Poland, the United Kingdom, a dual citizen of the US and Canada, and a&nbsp;Palestinian.

(With inputs from agencies)

43-year-old Zomi Frankcom, one of the six aid workers with the World Central Kitchen who were killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza along with the Palestinian driver, was of Indian descent, according to reports.

43-year-old Zomi Frankcom, one of the six aid workers with the World Central Kitchen who were killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza along with the Palestinian driver, was of Indian descent, according to reports. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that Frankcom was among those killed and demanded full responsibility from the Israeli Government. Also read: Israel says airstrike unintentionally killed aid workers in Gaza “This is someone who was volunteering overseas to provide aid through this charity for people who are suffering tremendous deprivation in Gaza. And this is just completely unacceptable. We want full accountability for this because this is a tragedy that should never have occurred,” Albanese said. Frankcom born to an Australian father and a Mizo mother, was on a mission to provide relief to the people of war-torn northern Gaza when the convoy she was travelling in came under attack, according to media reports. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged that Israeli forces carried out the strike that killed seven aid workers in Gaza. Watch: Israel admits 'unintentionally' killed 7 aid workers in Gaza × “Unfortunately there was a tragic episode of an unintentional strike of our forces on innocent people in the Gaza Strip,” he said in a statement on Tuesday (March 2). He said that officials “will do everything for this not to happen again”. The food charity said it was immediately suspending operations in the region. “Inspite of coordinating movements with the IDF, the convoy was hit as it was leaving the Deir al-Balah warehouse, the team had unloaded more than 100 tons of humanitarian food aid brought to Gaza on the maritime route,” the statement further said. Also read: Hezbollah warns 'Israel will pay' for attack on Iran's Damascus “This is not only an attack against WCK, this is an attack on humanitarian organizations showing up in the most dire of situations where food is being used as a weapon of war. This is unforgivable,” said WCK CEO Erin Gore. The seven aid workers killed are from Australia, Poland, the United Kingdom, a dual citizen of the US and Canada, and a Palestinian. (With inputs from agencies)

Woman of Indian descent among 6 international aid workers killed in Israeli strike in Gaza

In a video message shared on X, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu admitted&nbsp;that Israeli&nbsp;forces carried out the strike that took lives of seven&nbsp;World Central Kitchen workers in Gaza. The message came as he was discharged&nbsp;from Hadassah Medical Center-Ein Kerem in Jerusalem.

“Unfortunately, yesterday there was a tragic incident in which our forces accidentally struck innocent people in the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu said adding that Israel will do everything it can to ensure an incident like that doesn’t happen again.

Netanyahu is reported to be in good condition after&nbsp;he underwent a successful hernia operation on Sunday (March 31) night.&nbsp;“The prime minister’s condition is excellent, and we are discharging him in a state in which he is fully capable of continuing with his work,” Prof. Alon Pikarsky, who headed the team that performed the surgery told The Times of Israel.

"I am now being released from Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital. It became my office in the last day, we continued to operate from here as well," the official account of the Prime Minister's Office in Hebrew wrote on X.

Netanyahu expresses&nbsp;regret at&nbsp;deaths of World Central Kitchen workers

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed regret at the deaths of seven workers for the World Central Kitchen&nbsp;in Gaza, calling the incident unfortunate and unplanned.&nbsp;“Our forces unintentionally hit innocent people in the Gaza Strip,”&nbsp;Netanyahu said in a video released on X.&nbsp;

"This happens in wartime. We are thoroughly looking into it, are in contact with the governments (of the foreigners among the dead) and will do everything to ensure it does not happen again," Netanyahu said in a video statement.

On April 02,&nbsp;the Israel Defense Forces launched an independent probe into the attack that killed aid workers with World Central Kitchen in Gaza.&nbsp;World Central Kitchen blamed IDF for the strike. World Central Kitchen claimed that IDF was aware of their location because they were coordinating their movements with IDF. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

In a video message shared on X, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu admitted that Israeli forces carried out the strike that took lives of seven World Central Kitchen workers in Gaza.

In a video message shared on X, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu admitted that Israeli forces carried out the strike that took lives of seven World Central Kitchen workers in Gaza. The message came as he was discharged from Hadassah Medical Center-Ein Kerem in Jerusalem. “Unfortunately, yesterday there was a tragic incident in which our forces accidentally struck innocent people in the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu said adding that Israel will do everything it can to ensure an incident like that doesn’t happen again. Netanyahu is reported to be in good condition after he underwent a successful hernia operation on Sunday (March 31) night. “The prime minister’s condition is excellent, and we are discharging him in a state in which he is fully capable of continuing with his work,” Prof. Alon Pikarsky, who headed the team that performed the surgery told The Times of Israel. "I am now being released from Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital. It became my office in the last day, we continued to operate from here as well," the official account of the Prime Minister's Office in Hebrew wrote on X. Netanyahu expresses regret at deaths of World Central Kitchen workers Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed regret at the deaths of seven workers for the World Central Kitchen in Gaza, calling the incident unfortunate and unplanned. “Our forces unintentionally hit innocent people in the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu said in a video released on X. "This happens in wartime. We are thoroughly looking into it, are in contact with the governments (of the foreigners among the dead) and will do everything to ensure it does not happen again," Netanyahu said in a video statement. On April 02, the Israel Defense Forces launched an independent probe into the attack that killed aid workers with World Central Kitchen in Gaza. World Central Kitchen blamed IDF for the strike. World Central Kitchen claimed that IDF was aware of their location because they were coordinating their movements with IDF. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Such accidents happen in wartime’: Netanyahu on death of aid workers in Gaza; released from hospital

Tens of thousands of Pro-Palestinian protesters marched in London on Saturday (March 30) demanding an end to the war in Gaza.

Footage shows police questioning two female protesters from the crowd, one of which was carrying a placard reading, “(Rishi) Sunak + (Keir) Starmer support genocide, remember that”.

When asked by a journalist why she was being questioned by the police, the woman replied, "They (the police) can't tell me. Apparently, it's a public order offence under Section 5." Footage shows her being taken by police into a police van.

At least 32,705 Palestinians have been killed and 75,190 injured in Israel's military offensive on Gaza since Oct. 7, the Gaza health ministry said on Saturday.

A three-ship convoy left a port in Cyprus on Saturday (March 30) to deliver essential aid supplies for Palestinians in Gaza amid raging war between Israel and Hamas. The convoy left with 400 tonnes of food and other supplies amid soaring concerns about hunger and potential famine in the blockaded Palestinians enclave.&nbsp;

According to a statement by the World Central Kitchen, the ships are carrying ready-to-eat items like rice, pasta, flour, legumes, canned vegetables and proteins that were enough to prepare more than 1 million meals, Associated Press reported.&nbsp;

Tens of thousands of Pro-Palestinian protesters marched in London on Saturday (March 30) demanding an end to the war in Gaza. Footage shows police questioning two female protesters from the crowd, one of which was carrying a placard reading, “(Rishi) Sunak + (Keir) Starmer support genocide, remember that”.

Tens of thousands of Pro-Palestinian protesters marched in London on Saturday (March 30) demanding an end to the war in Gaza. Footage shows police questioning two female protesters from the crowd, one of which was carrying a placard reading, “(Rishi) Sunak + (Keir) Starmer support genocide, remember that”. When asked by a journalist why she was being questioned by the police, the woman replied, "They (the police) can't tell me. Apparently, it's a public order offence under Section 5." Footage shows her being taken by police into a police van. At least 32,705 Palestinians have been killed and 75,190 injured in Israel's military offensive on Gaza since Oct. 7, the Gaza health ministry said on Saturday. A three-ship convoy left a port in Cyprus on Saturday (March 30) to deliver essential aid supplies for Palestinians in Gaza amid raging war between Israel and Hamas. The convoy left with 400 tonnes of food and other supplies amid soaring concerns about hunger and potential famine in the blockaded Palestinians enclave. According to a statement by the World Central Kitchen, the ships are carrying ready-to-eat items like rice, pasta, flour, legumes, canned vegetables and proteins that were enough to prepare more than 1 million meals, Associated Press reported.

Thousands march in London to demand ceasefire in Gaza

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