Pope Francis on Sunday said the loss of innocent lives in violence between Israel and Palestinians was "terrible and unacceptable", warning that the latest conflict could get even worse.&nbsp;

"In these days, violent armed clashes between the Gaza Strip and Israel have taken over, and risk degenerating into a spiral of death and destruction," said the pope following his Sunday Regina Caeli prayer.

"Numerous people have been injured, and many innocents have died. Among them there are also children, and this is terrible and unacceptable," the 84-year-old pontiff said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/do-not-give-in-to-evil-and-division-pope-tells-myanmar-community-385407">Do not give in to evil and division, Pope tells Myanmar community&nbsp;</a>

"I ask myself: where will hatred and revenge lead? Do we really think we will build peace by destroying the other?"

Francis' comments, addressed to a crowd in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican, came after the pontiff held a special mass for Myanmar on Sunday morning.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-kerry-calls-pope-powerful-voice-on-climate-385271">US envoy Kerry calls pope 'powerful voice' on climate</a>

During mass, he repeated calls for an end to bloodshed in the country roiled by a violent crackdown on civilians by the military junta, urging its people not to lose hope.

Francis, who often speaks about current events in his Sunday addresses from the window of the Apostolic Palace, also urged for calm in the Middle East.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jerusalem-under-siege-as-israelis-and-palestinians-clash-384175">Jerusalem under siege as Israelis and Palestinians clash</a>

"I appeal for calm and, to those who have responsibility, to stop the din of arms and to walk the paths of peace, also with the help of the international community," he said.

Pope Francis on Sunday said the loss of innocent lives in violence between Israel and Palestinians was "terrible and unacceptable", warning that the latest conflict could get even worse.

Pope Francis on Sunday said the loss of innocent lives in violence between Israel and Palestinians was "terrible and unacceptable", warning that the latest conflict could get even worse. "In these days, violent armed clashes between the Gaza Strip and Israel have taken over, and risk degenerating into a spiral of death and destruction," said the pope following his Sunday Regina Caeli prayer. "Numerous people have been injured, and many innocents have died. Among them there are also children, and this is terrible and unacceptable," the 84-year-old pontiff said. Also read | Do not give in to evil and division, Pope tells Myanmar community "I ask myself: where will hatred and revenge lead? Do we really think we will build peace by destroying the other?" Francis' comments, addressed to a crowd in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican, came after the pontiff held a special mass for Myanmar on Sunday morning. Also read | US envoy Kerry calls pope 'powerful voice' on climate During mass, he repeated calls for an end to bloodshed in the country roiled by a violent crackdown on civilians by the military junta, urging its people not to lose hope. Francis, who often speaks about current events in his Sunday addresses from the window of the Apostolic Palace, also urged for calm in the Middle East. Also read | Jerusalem under siege as Israelis and Palestinians clash "I appeal for calm and, to those who have responsibility, to stop the din of arms and to walk the paths of peace, also with the help of the international community," he said.

Pope warns of 'spiral of death' in Middle East clashes

Support increases for Palestine as Israel-Gaza enter seventh day of conflict

Paris&nbsp;police&nbsp;used tear gas and water cannon Saturday to disperse a&nbsp;pro-Palestinian&nbsp;rally held despite a ban by authorities, who feared a flare-up of anti-Semitic violence during the worst fighting between Israel and Hamas in years.

Several hundreds of people converged on the heavily immigrant Barbes neighbourhood in the north of the capital, amid a massive security presence involving some 4,200 officers, officials said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-court-bans-pro-palestine-demo-organisers-defiant-385185">French court bans pro-Palestine demo, organisers defiant&nbsp;</a>

Police&nbsp;blocked off wide boulevards as well as narrow streets where some of the&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;were forced to retreat, while knots of residents and passers-by watched or recorded the scene with their phones.

Some threw stones or tried to set up roadblocks with construction barriers, but for the most part, police&nbsp;pursued groups across the district while preventing any march toward the Place de la Bastille as planned.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-conflict-fallout-germany-will-not-tolerate-anti-semitic-protests-says-merkels-spokesman-384985/amp">Gaza conflict fallout: Germany will not tolerate 'anti-Semitic' protests, says Merkel's spokesman</a>

"You want to prohibit me from showing solidarity with my people, even as my village is being bombed?" Mohammed, 23 and wearing a "Free Palestine" t-shirt, told AFP.

As a cold rainstorm settled over the city toward evening, many&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;left, leaving a large group of mostly young men facing off against ranks of officers who held their ground on a stretch of boulevard.

A handful of garbage bins were set on fire and rocks and other projectiles were hurled toward&nbsp;police, but no arrests were reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-as-violence-rocks-gaza-israel-and-west-bank-385182">Death toll rises as violence rocks Gaza, Israel and West Bank</a>

Ban 'unacceptable'

The march was banned Thursday over concerns of a repeat of fierce clashes that erupted at a similar&nbsp;Paris&nbsp;march during the last war in 2014 when&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;took aim at synagogues and other Israeli and Jewish targets.

"We all remember that extremely troubling protest where terrible phrases like 'death to Jews' were yelled," Mayor Anne Hidalgo told AFP on Friday, welcoming a "wise" decision to ban the march.

But Walid Atallah, president of the Association of Palestinians in Ile-de-France, the region encompassing&nbsp;Paris, accused the government of inflaming&nbsp;tensions&nbsp;with the ban.

Repeat of&nbsp;unrest?&nbsp;

"If there were genuine risks of public disorder, of serious problems, they would have prohibited it right away," he told a press conference ahead of the march.

"They banned it at the last minute, it's unacceptable," he said. Similar protests in Germany and Denmark this week have degenerated into clashes leading to several arrests.

The protest had originally been called to mark the Nakba, as Palestinians call the "catastrophe" of Israel's creation in 1948, which turned hundreds of thousands into refugees.

But a&nbsp;Paris&nbsp;court upheld the ban Friday, saying the "international and domestic context" justified fears of unrest "that could be as serious or even worse than in 2014."

Interior Minister Gerard Darmanin also called for similar bans in other cities if necessary, and officials prohibited marches in Nice, where around 150 people gathered nonetheless, and in some&nbsp;Paris&nbsp;suburbs.&nbsp;

"We don't want scenes of violence, we don't want to import a conflict onto French soil, we don't want eruptions of hate on our streets," government spokesman Gabriel Attal said Saturday in Marseille.

But no incidents were reported as thousands of people gathered for protests and marches in several other cities including Montpellier, Toulouse and Bordeaux. Many accuse France of being too favourable toward Israel in the latest conflict, which has seen a barrage of rocket fire from Gaza that has been met with Israeli artillery and airstrikes.

The ban has caused a split among French politicians, with President Emmanuel Macron's centre-right party and the right-wing opposition supporting the move, but leftists calling it an unacceptable attack on freedom of expression.

Macron's office said he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday, offering his "condolences for the victims of the rocket fire claimed by Hamas and other terrorist groups."

The statement said Macron urged a return to peace and "his concern about the civilian population in Gaza."

France has the largest Muslim population in Europe, with an estimated five to six million people.

It also has the largest Jewish population after Israel and the United States.

Paris police used tear gas and water cannon Saturday to disperse a pro-Palestinian rally held despite a ban by authorities, who feared a flare-up of anti-Semitic violence during the worst fighting between Israel and Hamas in years.

Paris police used tear gas and water cannon Saturday to disperse a pro-Palestinian rally held despite a ban by authorities, who feared a flare-up of anti-Semitic violence during the worst fighting between Israel and Hamas in years. Several hundreds of people converged on the heavily immigrant Barbes neighbourhood in the north of the capital, amid a massive security presence involving some 4,200 officers, officials said. Also read | French court bans pro-Palestine demo, organisers defiant Police blocked off wide boulevards as well as narrow streets where some of the protesters were forced to retreat, while knots of residents and passers-by watched or recorded the scene with their phones. Some threw stones or tried to set up roadblocks with construction barriers, but for the most part, police pursued groups across the district while preventing any march toward the Place de la Bastille as planned. Also read | Gaza conflict fallout: Germany will not tolerate 'anti-Semitic' protests, says Merkel's spokesman "You want to prohibit me from showing solidarity with my people, even as my village is being bombed?" Mohammed, 23 and wearing a "Free Palestine" t-shirt, told AFP. As a cold rainstorm settled over the city toward evening, many protesters left, leaving a large group of mostly young men facing off against ranks of officers who held their ground on a stretch of boulevard. A handful of garbage bins were set on fire and rocks and other projectiles were hurled toward police, but no arrests were reported. Also read | Death toll rises as violence rocks Gaza, Israel and West Bank Ban 'unacceptable' The march was banned Thursday over concerns of a repeat of fierce clashes that erupted at a similar Paris march during the last war in 2014 when protesters took aim at synagogues and other Israeli and Jewish targets. "We all remember that extremely troubling protest where terrible phrases like 'death to Jews' were yelled," Mayor Anne Hidalgo told AFP on Friday, welcoming a "wise" decision to ban the march. But Walid Atallah, president of the Association of Palestinians in Ile-de-France, the region encompassing Paris, accused the government of inflaming tensions with the ban. Repeat of unrest? "If there were genuine risks of public disorder, of serious problems, they would have prohibited it right away," he told a press conference ahead of the march. "They banned it at the last minute, it's unacceptable," he said. Similar protests in Germany and Denmark this week have degenerated into clashes leading to several arrests. The protest had originally been called to mark the Nakba, as Palestinians call the "catastrophe" of Israel's creation in 1948, which turned hundreds of thousands into refugees. But a Paris court upheld the ban Friday, saying the "international and domestic context" justified fears of unrest "that could be as serious or even worse than in 2014." Interior Minister Gerard Darmanin also called for similar bans in other cities if necessary, and officials prohibited marches in Nice, where around 150 people gathered nonetheless, and in some Paris suburbs. "We don't want scenes of violence, we don't want to import a conflict onto French soil, we don't want eruptions of hate on our streets," government spokesman Gabriel Attal said Saturday in Marseille. But no incidents were reported as thousands of people gathered for protests and marches in several other cities including Montpellier, Toulouse and Bordeaux. Many accuse France of being too favourable toward Israel in the latest conflict, which has seen a barrage of rocket fire from Gaza that has been met with Israeli artillery and airstrikes. The ban has caused a split among French politicians, with President Emmanuel Macron's centre-right party and the right-wing opposition supporting the move, but leftists calling it an unacceptable attack on freedom of expression. Macron's office said he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday, offering his "condolences for the victims of the rocket fire claimed by Hamas and other terrorist groups." The statement said Macron urged a return to peace and "his concern about the civilian population in Gaza." France has the largest Muslim population in Europe, with an estimated five to six million people. It also has the largest Jewish population after Israel and the United States.

Tensions in Paris as pro-Palestinian protesters defy police

Jews cleared Torah scrolls from a torched synagogue on Wednesday and burnt-out cars lined nearby streets in an ethnically mixed Israeli town hit by violence denounced by the president as "unforgivable" acts by Arabs incensed at airstrikes on Gaza.

Moving to head off further violence in&nbsp;Lod, which has also seen assaults by Jews on Arab passersby, police declared a night-time curfew and deployed heavily armed reinforcements.

In several other areas populated by Israel's 21 per cent Arab minority, Palestinian flags adorned electricity poles and hundreds of residents have turned out for protests, sometimes clashing with police or Jewish residents.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/35-killed-in-gaza-5-in-israel-as-violence-escalates-384412">35 killed in Gaza, 5 in Israel, as violence escalates&nbsp;</a>

"We have lost control of the city and the streets,"&nbsp;Lod&nbsp;Mayor Yair Revivo told Channel 12 News after nightly confrontations in which an Arab townsman was shot dead, a killing in which two Jewish suspects have been arrested.

Scores of other people have been arrested in&nbsp;Lod&nbsp;and in majority-Arab towns in central and northern Israel, including Umm al-Fahm along the West Bank border and Jisr al-Zarqa on the Mediterranean coast, police said.

In&nbsp;Lod, men carried Torah scrolls through the blackened and debris-strewn yard of the torched synagogue. President Reuven Rivlin described events in terms of recalling anti-Semitism abroad.

"The sight of the pogrom in&nbsp;Lod&nbsp;and the disturbances across the country by an incited and bloodthirsty Arab mob ... is unforgivable," he said, calling the flying of the Palestinian flag by protesters "a brutal assault on shared existence".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-woman-killed-in-israel-was-struck-by-rocket-strike-during-a-video-call-with-husband-384415">Indian woman killed in Israel was struck by rocket strike during a video call with husband</a>

Israel's Arab minority - Palestinian by heritage, Israeli by citizenship - is mostly descended from the Palestinians who lived under Ottoman and then British colonial rule before staying in Israel after the country’s 1948 creation.

Most are bilingual in Arabic and Hebrew and feel a sense of kinship with Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip. They often complain of systemic discrimination, unfair access to housing, healthcare, and education services.

Tension in Arab-Jewish towns has risen as Israel conducted airstrikes in Gaza and Palestinian militants fired rockets into Israel in an escalation of violence since clashes in East Jerusalem on Monday morning.

Ibrahim, an Arab councillor with the&nbsp;Lod&nbsp;municipality, said: "What is happening now is (an) uprising that is going on (in) cities like Ramle,&nbsp;Lod, Jaffa, Acre and Haifa," calling events in Gaza and Jerusalem a "red line" for Arabs.

In the coastal city of Acre, Uri Buri, a Jewish-owned fish restaurant, was set fire to and some Arab residents said they were scared to leave home.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-violence-escalates-49-palestinians-6-israelis-killed-384595/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In Jaffa, near Tel Aviv, Arab protesters clashed with police firing stun grenades to disperse them.

"We condemn that our people's solidarity and cohesion with our brethren in Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip is being channelled through acts of sabotage to public and private property, as is now happening at Umm al-Fahm's entrance," said Samir Mahamid, Mayor of Umm al-Fahm.

Neighbourhoods with Arab residents, including&nbsp;Lod&nbsp;and Jaffa, were among those where sirens were triggered by rocket fire. An Arab resident of&nbsp;Lod&nbsp;and his daughter were killed on Wednesday when a vehicle was hit by a rocket, Israeli authorities said.

In Haifa and Jaffa, and in the Arab city of Nazareth, protesters have chanted slogans in support of Palestinians facing eviction from an East Jerusalem neighbourhood under a long-running legal case.

Arab citizens of Israel were among the thousands of protesters who have faced off in recent days with Israeli police near Al-Aqsa mosque and elsewhere in Jerusalem's Old City.

A spokesman for the Hamas Islamist militant group in Gaza encouraged Arab citizens to "rise up" against "our enemy and yours".

Jews cleared Torah scrolls from a torched synagogue on Wednesday and burnt-out cars lined nearby streets in an ethnically mixed Israeli town hit by violence denounced by the president as "unforgivable" acts by Arabs incensed at airstrikes on Gaza.

Jews cleared Torah scrolls from a torched synagogue on Wednesday and burnt-out cars lined nearby streets in an ethnically mixed Israeli town hit by violence denounced by the president as "unforgivable" acts by Arabs incensed at airstrikes on Gaza. Moving to head off further violence in Lod, which has also seen assaults by Jews on Arab passersby, police declared a night-time curfew and deployed heavily armed reinforcements. In several other areas populated by Israel's 21 per cent Arab minority, Palestinian flags adorned electricity poles and hundreds of residents have turned out for protests, sometimes clashing with police or Jewish residents. Also read | 35 killed in Gaza, 5 in Israel, as violence escalates "We have lost control of the city and the streets," Lod Mayor Yair Revivo told Channel 12 News after nightly confrontations in which an Arab townsman was shot dead, a killing in which two Jewish suspects have been arrested. Scores of other people have been arrested in Lod and in majority-Arab towns in central and northern Israel, including Umm al-Fahm along the West Bank border and Jisr al-Zarqa on the Mediterranean coast, police said. In Lod, men carried Torah scrolls through the blackened and debris-strewn yard of the torched synagogue. President Reuven Rivlin described events in terms of recalling anti-Semitism abroad. "The sight of the pogrom in Lod and the disturbances across the country by an incited and bloodthirsty Arab mob ... is unforgivable," he said, calling the flying of the Palestinian flag by protesters "a brutal assault on shared existence". Also read | Indian woman killed in Israel was struck by rocket strike during a video call with husband Israel's Arab minority - Palestinian by heritage, Israeli by citizenship - is mostly descended from the Palestinians who lived under Ottoman and then British colonial rule before staying in Israel after the country’s 1948 creation. Most are bilingual in Arabic and Hebrew and feel a sense of kinship with Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip. They often complain of systemic discrimination, unfair access to housing, healthcare, and education services. Tension in Arab-Jewish towns has risen as Israel conducted airstrikes in Gaza and Palestinian militants fired rockets into Israel in an escalation of violence since clashes in East Jerusalem on Monday morning. Ibrahim, an Arab councillor with the Lod municipality, said: "What is happening now is (an) uprising that is going on (in) cities like Ramle, Lod, Jaffa, Acre and Haifa," calling events in Gaza and Jerusalem a "red line" for Arabs. In the coastal city of Acre, Uri Buri, a Jewish-owned fish restaurant, was set fire to and some Arab residents said they were scared to leave home. In Jaffa, near Tel Aviv, Arab protesters clashed with police firing stun grenades to disperse them. "We condemn that our people's solidarity and cohesion with our brethren in Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip is being channelled through acts of sabotage to public and private property, as is now happening at Umm al-Fahm's entrance," said Samir Mahamid, Mayor of Umm al-Fahm. Neighbourhoods with Arab residents, including Lod and Jaffa, were among those where sirens were triggered by rocket fire. An Arab resident of Lod and his daughter were killed on Wednesday when a vehicle was hit by a rocket, Israeli authorities said. In Haifa and Jaffa, and in the Arab city of Nazareth, protesters have chanted slogans in support of Palestinians facing eviction from an East Jerusalem neighbourhood under a long-running legal case. Arab citizens of Israel were among the thousands of protesters who have faced off in recent days with Israeli police near Al-Aqsa mosque and elsewhere in Jerusalem's Old City. A spokesman for the Hamas Islamist militant group in Gaza encouraged Arab citizens to "rise up" against "our enemy and yours".

Israel declares curfew in city of Lod, an Arab-Jewish town hit by violence

Amid the continued clashes between the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/35-killed-in-gaza-5-in-israel-as-violence-escalates-384412">Israeli </a>Army and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-and-israel-step-up-attacks-as-jerusalem-unrest-ignites-gaza-death-toll-hits-30-384371">Hamas</a> which attacked Israel with rockets on Tuesday, Israel on Wednesday vowed more attacks to bring "total, long-term quiet" before a ceasefire.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-israel-hamas-exchange-rocket-fire-384382/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz said, "this is just the beginning and would aim to restore peace for the long-term."

As the conflict escalated, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan called for de-escalation while expressing concern over the "continuing clashes and the growing number of people killed and wounded."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&nbsp;had declared a state of emergency in the Israeli city of Lod as riots broke out among Arabs.

At least 55 people have been killed so far and 900 Palestinians wounded since the violence spiralled out of control as Palestinian militants launched multiple rocket attacks on Israel on Monday with casualties reported in Gaza, West Bank and Israel after clashes at Jerusalem's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-after-israel-strikes-gaza-two-commanders-killed-says-islamic-jihad-384314">Al-Aqsa</a> mosque compound.

UN's Middle East envoy Tor Wennesland warned that the situation was turning towards "we're escalating towards a full-scale war" even as British PM Johnson urged both sides to "step back from the brink".

Israel has been using the Iron Dome air defence system as Hamas targeted Israel including capital Tel Aviv firing over 1,000 rockets as Hamas threatened to step up operation named "Sword of Jerusalem".

Israel, which calls its operation "Guardian of the Walls," said it expected the fighting to intensify.

Chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court(ICC) Fatou Bensouda said possible "commission of crimes under the Rome Statute" have been committed as both sides exchanged heavy fire.

Amid the continued clashes between the Israeli Army and Hamas which attacked Israel with rockets on Tuesday, Israel on Wednesday vowed more attacks to bring "total, long-term quiet" before a ceasefire.

Amid the continued clashes between the Israeli Army and Hamas which attacked Israel with rockets on Tuesday, Israel on Wednesday vowed more attacks to bring "total, long-term quiet" before a ceasefire. Watch: Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz said, "this is just the beginning and would aim to restore peace for the long-term." As the conflict escalated, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan called for de-escalation while expressing concern over the "continuing clashes and the growing number of people killed and wounded." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had declared a state of emergency in the Israeli city of Lod as riots broke out among Arabs. At least 55 people have been killed so far and 900 Palestinians wounded since the violence spiralled out of control as Palestinian militants launched multiple rocket attacks on Israel on Monday with casualties reported in Gaza, West Bank and Israel after clashes at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa mosque compound. UN's Middle East envoy Tor Wennesland warned that the situation was turning towards "we're escalating towards a full-scale war" even as British PM Johnson urged both sides to "step back from the brink". Israel has been using the Iron Dome air defence system as Hamas targeted Israel including capital Tel Aviv firing over 1,000 rockets as Hamas threatened to step up operation named "Sword of Jerusalem". Israel, which calls its operation "Guardian of the Walls," said it expected the fighting to intensify. Chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court(ICC) Fatou Bensouda said possible "commission of crimes under the Rome Statute" have been committed as both sides exchanged heavy fire.

'Escalating towards full-scale war': Israel vows more attacks on Gaza before truce

Amid the escalating clash between Israelis and the Palestinians in Jerusalem, Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Tuesday to intensify attacks on Islamist militants in Gaza as the foes traded heavy fire that killed at least 30 people.

World powers urged calm and Muslim countries voiced outrage amid the worst flare-up of violence in years that saw Hamas rain down rockets on Israel while the Jewish state launched attacks with fighter jets and attack helicopters. 
 
Gravitas: Israel &amp; Hamas exchange rocket fire

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-israel-hamas-exchange-rocket-fire-384382/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This is the most serious outbreak of fighting since 2019 between Israel and armed factions in Hamas Islamist-run Gaza was triggered by clashes between Palestinians and Israeli police at Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem on Monday.

The holy city has been tense during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, with sporadic unrest and possible evictions of Palestinians from homes claimed by Jewish settlers in a court case adding to the friction.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would step up its strikes on Gaza in the face of the surge in rocket attacks.

"After a situational assessment, it was decided that both the strength of the attacks and the frequency of the attacks will be increased," he said in a video statement. 
 
Watch | Israel responds with airstrikes on Gaza after Hamas rocket attacks

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-responds-with-airstrikes-on-gaza-after-hamas-rocket-attacks-384289/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Within an hour, Israel had intensified its airstrikes in and around Gaza City, a Reuters witness said, with plumes of smoke rising from densely-populated residential areas.

The Gaza health ministry said at least 28 Palestinians, including 10 children, had been killed and 152 wounded by Israeli strikes in the enclave of two million people since Hamas on Monday fired rockets towards Jerusalem for the first time since 2014.

Israel`s national ambulance service said two women were killed in rocket strikes on the southern Israeli city of Ashkelon.

In the town of Beit Hanooun in northern Gaza, Abdel-Hamid Hamad said his nephew Hussein, 11, was killed on Monday in what residents said was an Israeli airstrike. He told Reuters the boy was collecting wood when he was hit.

"Gaza has had enough, and nothing makes a difference now. Our children are getting killed. What should we do?" Hamad said.

In Barzilai hospital in Ashkelon, an Israeli woman treated for injuries after her apartment was hit by a Palestinian rocket recalled moments of panic.

An air conditioner fell on her and one of her children during the night and a bathroom door fell on her husband`s head, the woman told Channel 13 TV, which did not give her name.

SCHOOL HIT

Israel disputed the Gaza account of casualties in the territory, saying it had killed at least 20 Hamas fighters and that a third of the hundreds of rockets launched by militants had fallen short, causing Palestinian civilian casualties.

In one Gaza neighbourhood, an Israeli missile exploded inside an apartment in a multi-story building, killing three Islamic Jihad members, a militant official said.

Police said more than 30 people were hurt by rocket strikes in southern Israel, though the military said its air defences were intercepting about 90% of the cross-border launches.

Hamas said that in one five-minute barrage alone, it had fired 137 missiles at Ashkelon and Ashdod, both lying south of Tel Aviv, where several homes were on fire and a school, empty at the time, was hit.

Israeli tanks massed on the Gaza border as officials said infantry and armour reinforcements were being dispatched.

The Arab League, some of whose members have warmed ties with Israel over the last year, accused it of "indiscriminate and irresponsible" attacks in Gaza and said it was responsible for "dangerous escalation" in Jerusalem.

Egypt, Qatar and the United Nations were trying to stem the violence, a Palestinian official said.

ARABS PROTEST IN ISRAEL

Israel has also seen a spread of pro-Palestinian protests, some violent, among its 21% Arab minority.

In the ethnically mixed town of Lod, witnesses quoted by Israeli media said one or two armed Jews shot at rioting Arabs, killing one and wounding two. The dead man`s father told the Walla news site he had been ambushed while on a family visit.

The accounts could not be confirmed. Israeli police said they had arrested two suspects in the incident.

On Monday, more than 300 Palestinians were injured at Al Aqsa Mosque in clashes with Israeli police, who fired rubber bullets, stun grenades and tear gas, the Palestine Red Crescent Society said. Police said 21 officers were hurt.

Israel claims all of Jerusalem as its capital, a status not generally recognised internationally. Palestinians want East Jerusalem - captured by Israel in the 1967 Arab-Israeli war - as the capital of a future state.

They have been incensed by Israeli court-ordered evictions there to make way for Jewish settlers.

The outbreak of hostilities led Netanyahu`s political opponents to suspend negotiations on forming a coalition of right-wing, leftist and centre-left parties to unseat him after an inconclusive March 23 election.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid has three weeks left to establish a government, with a new election - and another chance for Netanyahu to retain power - likely if he fails.

Hamas named its rocket assault "Sword of Jerusalem", seeking to present itself as the defender of Palestinians in the city.

Such a move undermines the claims of its chief Palestinian rival, President Mahmoud Abbas, to represent all Palestinians. Abbas`s credibility took a blow earlier this year when he first called, then cancelled Palestinian elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the escalating clash between Israelis and the Palestinians in Jerusalem, Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Tuesday to intensify attacks on Islamist militants in Gaza as the foes traded heavy fire that killed at least 30 people.

Amid the escalating clash between Israelis and the Palestinians in Jerusalem, Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Tuesday to intensify attacks on Islamist militants in Gaza as the foes traded heavy fire that killed at least 30 people. World powers urged calm and Muslim countries voiced outrage amid the worst flare-up of violence in years that saw Hamas rain down rockets on Israel while the Jewish state launched attacks with fighter jets and attack helicopters. Gravitas: Israel & Hamas exchange rocket fire This is the most serious outbreak of fighting since 2019 between Israel and armed factions in Hamas Islamist-run Gaza was triggered by clashes between Palestinians and Israeli police at Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem on Monday. The holy city has been tense during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, with sporadic unrest and possible evictions of Palestinians from homes claimed by Jewish settlers in a court case adding to the friction. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would step up its strikes on Gaza in the face of the surge in rocket attacks. "After a situational assessment, it was decided that both the strength of the attacks and the frequency of the attacks will be increased," he said in a video statement. Watch | Israel responds with airstrikes on Gaza after Hamas rocket attacks Within an hour, Israel had intensified its airstrikes in and around Gaza City, a Reuters witness said, with plumes of smoke rising from densely-populated residential areas. The Gaza health ministry said at least 28 Palestinians, including 10 children, had been killed and 152 wounded by Israeli strikes in the enclave of two million people since Hamas on Monday fired rockets towards Jerusalem for the first time since 2014. Israel`s national ambulance service said two women were killed in rocket strikes on the southern Israeli city of Ashkelon. In the town of Beit Hanooun in northern Gaza, Abdel-Hamid Hamad said his nephew Hussein, 11, was killed on Monday in what residents said was an Israeli airstrike. He told Reuters the boy was collecting wood when he was hit. "Gaza has had enough, and nothing makes a difference now. Our children are getting killed. What should we do?" Hamad said. In Barzilai hospital in Ashkelon, an Israeli woman treated for injuries after her apartment was hit by a Palestinian rocket recalled moments of panic. An air conditioner fell on her and one of her children during the night and a bathroom door fell on her husband`s head, the woman told Channel 13 TV, which did not give her name. SCHOOL HIT Israel disputed the Gaza account of casualties in the territory, saying it had killed at least 20 Hamas fighters and that a third of the hundreds of rockets launched by militants had fallen short, causing Palestinian civilian casualties. In one Gaza neighbourhood, an Israeli missile exploded inside an apartment in a multi-story building, killing three Islamic Jihad members, a militant official said. Police said more than 30 people were hurt by rocket strikes in southern Israel, though the military said its air defences were intercepting about 90% of the cross-border launches. Hamas said that in one five-minute barrage alone, it had fired 137 missiles at Ashkelon and Ashdod, both lying south of Tel Aviv, where several homes were on fire and a school, empty at the time, was hit. Israeli tanks massed on the Gaza border as officials said infantry and armour reinforcements were being dispatched. The Arab League, some of whose members have warmed ties with Israel over the last year, accused it of "indiscriminate and irresponsible" attacks in Gaza and said it was responsible for "dangerous escalation" in Jerusalem. Egypt, Qatar and the United Nations were trying to stem the violence, a Palestinian official said. ARABS PROTEST IN ISRAEL Israel has also seen a spread of pro-Palestinian protests, some violent, among its 21% Arab minority. In the ethnically mixed town of Lod, witnesses quoted by Israeli media said one or two armed Jews shot at rioting Arabs, killing one and wounding two. The dead man`s father told the Walla news site he had been ambushed while on a family visit. The accounts could not be confirmed. Israeli police said they had arrested two suspects in the incident. On Monday, more than 300 Palestinians were injured at Al Aqsa Mosque in clashes with Israeli police, who fired rubber bullets, stun grenades and tear gas, the Palestine Red Crescent Society said. Police said 21 officers were hurt. Israel claims all of Jerusalem as its capital, a status not generally recognised internationally. Palestinians want East Jerusalem - captured by Israel in the 1967 Arab-Israeli war - as the capital of a future state. They have been incensed by Israeli court-ordered evictions there to make way for Jewish settlers. The outbreak of hostilities led Netanyahu`s political opponents to suspend negotiations on forming a coalition of right-wing, leftist and centre-left parties to unseat him after an inconclusive March 23 election. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has three weeks left to establish a government, with a new election - and another chance for Netanyahu to retain power - likely if he fails. Hamas named its rocket assault "Sword of Jerusalem", seeking to present itself as the defender of Palestinians in the city. Such a move undermines the claims of its chief Palestinian rival, President Mahmoud Abbas, to represent all Palestinians. Abbas`s credibility took a blow earlier this year when he first called, then cancelled Palestinian elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas and Israel step up attacks as Jerusalem unrest ignites Gaza, death toll hits 30

Amid the escalating clash between<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-20-dead-as-israel-strikes-gaza-after-palestinian-rocket-firings-384237"> Israelis</a> and the Palestinians in&nbsp;Jerusalem, Islamic Jihad, a key Palestinian group&nbsp;in Gaza said that two of its top commanders were killed during Israeli airstrikes on Monday.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-responds-with-airstrikes-on-gaza-after-hamas-rocket-attacks-384289/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At least 25 Palestinians have been killed and 125 reportedly injured in Gaza amid unrest at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.&nbsp;

Israeli army spokesman Jonathan Conricus said that 300 rockets have been fired by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jerusalem-violence-israel-launches-air-strikes-against-hamas-in-gaza-strip-384183">Palestinian</a> militants towards Israel with most of them being intercepted by the country's Iron Dome missile defence system.

Israel claims 15 Hamas commanders have been killed after the country's Air Force pounded targets in Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-turkey-protests-against-israel-over-surge-in-violence-384194"> Israeli </a>Army claimed it has struck "130 military targets" belonging mostly to Hamas as armed groups unleashed a barrage of rockets towards Israel, including Jerusalem.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said "all sides need to de-escalate, reduce tensions, take practical steps to calm things down" while asserting that rocket attacks by Hamas "need to stop immediately".

The EU&nbsp;said the attacks must stop "immediately". "The firing of rockets from Gaza against civilian populations in Israel is totally unacceptable and feeds escalatory dynamics," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said.&nbsp;

The United Nations rights office said it was "deeply concerned" over the violence, saying: "We condemn all violence and all incitement to violence and ethnic division and provocations."

"No force should be used against those exercising their rights peacefully," UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said.

The UN Security Council&nbsp;had held an urgent meeting on Monday but did not issue any statement.

Amid the escalating clash between Israelis and the Palestinians in Jerusalem, Islamic Jihad, a key Palestinian group in Gaza said that two of its top commanders were killed during Israeli airstrikes on Monday.

Amid the escalating clash between Israelis and the Palestinians in Jerusalem, Islamic Jihad, a key Palestinian group in Gaza said that two of its top commanders were killed during Israeli airstrikes on Monday. Watch: At least 25 Palestinians have been killed and 125 reportedly injured in Gaza amid unrest at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. Israeli army spokesman Jonathan Conricus said that 300 rockets have been fired by Palestinian militants towards Israel with most of them being intercepted by the country's Iron Dome missile defence system. Israel claims 15 Hamas commanders have been killed after the country's Air Force pounded targets in Gaza Strip. The Israeli Army claimed it has struck "130 military targets" belonging mostly to Hamas as armed groups unleashed a barrage of rockets towards Israel, including Jerusalem. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said "all sides need to de-escalate, reduce tensions, take practical steps to calm things down" while asserting that rocket attacks by Hamas "need to stop immediately". The EU said the attacks must stop "immediately". "The firing of rockets from Gaza against civilian populations in Israel is totally unacceptable and feeds escalatory dynamics," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said. The United Nations rights office said it was "deeply concerned" over the violence, saying: "We condemn all violence and all incitement to violence and ethnic division and provocations." "No force should be used against those exercising their rights peacefully," UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said. The UN Security Council had held an urgent meeting on Monday but did not issue any statement.

Death toll rises after Israel strikes Gaza; two commanders killed, says Islamic Jihad

Israeli police said have said that the annual Jerusalem Day parade will take place on Monday in East Jerusalem, where violent clashes have continued for the past few days. 
 
"Currently, the annual Jerusalem Day's flag-waving parade will be held as planned," the police said in a statement sent to Xinhua news agency on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Israel vows to keep Jerusalem in order">Israel vows to keep Jerusalem in order</a> 
 
In Monday's parade, thousands of Israelis are expected to march through East Jerusalem's Old City, which Israel captured in the 1967 Middle East war and annexed shortly afterwards. 
 
There were calls to cancel or to change the route of the parade in the wake of escalating clashes between Israeli security forces and Palestinians in the Old City during the past weeks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Netanyahu says Israel firm on Jerusalem as global concern mounts">Netanyahu says Israel firm on Jerusalem as global concern mounts</a> 
 
Former police chief Arieh Amit told Army Radio that the flag parade should be rerouted away from the Old City's Damascus Gate. 
 
"Allowing the parade to pass through the Damascus Gate will be a folly," he said. 
 
Earlier on Sunday, fresh clashes erupted at East Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque compound after the end of the morning prayer. 
 
At least 10 Palestinians were injured. 
 
About 290 Palestinians were injured over the weekend in clashes at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and other parts of East Jerusalem. 
 
The clashes triggered international condemnations and calls from Arab states, the US, Europe and the UN for Israel to stop the violence. 
 
During Sunday's cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will 'continue to keep freedom of worship' but 'will not allow violent disturbances'. 
 
The clashes were sparked by the threatened eviction of dozens of Palestinians from their homes in Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood in East Jerusalem and the restrictions imposed by Israel during the holy Muslim month of Ramadan. 
 
Israel seized the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war. 
 
It annexed East Jerusalem shortly after the war, claiming it part of the Israeli capital. 
 
The Palestinians wish to build their future state on these lands, with its capital in East Jerusalem.

Israeli police said have said that the annual Jerusalem Day parade will take place on Monday in East Jerusalem, where violent clashes have continued for the past few days.

Israeli police said have said that the annual Jerusalem Day parade will take place on Monday in East Jerusalem, where violent clashes have continued for the past few days. "Currently, the annual Jerusalem Day's flag-waving parade will be held as planned," the police said in a statement sent to Xinhua news agency on Sunday. Also read | Israel vows to keep Jerusalem in order In Monday's parade, thousands of Israelis are expected to march through East Jerusalem's Old City, which Israel captured in the 1967 Middle East war and annexed shortly afterwards. There were calls to cancel or to change the route of the parade in the wake of escalating clashes between Israeli security forces and Palestinians in the Old City during the past weeks. Also read | Netanyahu says Israel firm on Jerusalem as global concern mounts Former police chief Arieh Amit told Army Radio that the flag parade should be rerouted away from the Old City's Damascus Gate. "Allowing the parade to pass through the Damascus Gate will be a folly," he said. Earlier on Sunday, fresh clashes erupted at East Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque compound after the end of the morning prayer. At least 10 Palestinians were injured. About 290 Palestinians were injured over the weekend in clashes at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and other parts of East Jerusalem. The clashes triggered international condemnations and calls from Arab states, the US, Europe and the UN for Israel to stop the violence. During Sunday's cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will 'continue to keep freedom of worship' but 'will not allow violent disturbances'. The clashes were sparked by the threatened eviction of dozens of Palestinians from their homes in Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood in East Jerusalem and the restrictions imposed by Israel during the holy Muslim month of Ramadan. Israel seized the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war. It annexed East Jerusalem shortly after the war, claiming it part of the Israeli capital. The Palestinians wish to build their future state on these lands, with its capital in East Jerusalem.

Israeli police green-lights Jerusalem Day parade despite clashes, mounting tension

Israel "firmly rejects" pressure not to build in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;said on Sunday following days of unrest and spreading international condemnation of planned evictions of Palestinians from homes in the city claimed by Jewish settlers.

Tensions over Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood in East Jerusalem have stoked daily confrontations. Washington said Saturday it was "deeply concerned" and wanted "authorities to approach the residents ... with compassion and respect".

East Jerusalem is among territories that Palestinians seek for a future state. US-sponsored statehood negotiations with Israel stalled in 2014. Israel deems of all Jerusalem its capital - a status not recognised abroad.

"We firmly reject the pressure not to build in Jerusalem. To my regret, this pressure has been increasing of late,"&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;said during a televised address ahead of national commemorations of the Israeli capture of East Jerusalem in a 1967 war.

"I say also to the best of our friends: Jerusalem is Israel's capital and just as every nation builds in its capital and builds up its capital, we also have the right to build in Jerusalem and to build up Jerusalem. That is what we have done and that is what we will continue to do,"&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;said.

East Jerusalem tensions have spilled over into clashes between Israeli police and Palestinians around Al-Aqsa, Islam's third-holiest mosque, at the height of the Ramadan fast month.

On Saturday night, Islam's holy night of Laylat al-Qadr, Palestinian youth threw stones, lit fires and tore down police barricades in the streets leading to the walled Old City gates as officers on horseback and in riot gear used stun grenades and water cannons to repel them.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-erdogan-calls-israel-terror-state-over-palestinian-clashes-at-al-aqsa-383800">Turkey's Erdogan calls Israel 'terror state' over Palestinian clashes at Al-Aqsa&nbsp;</a>

Netanyahu&nbsp;said Israel allows freedom of worship but "we will not allow any extremist element to disturb the peace in Jerusalem ... We will not allow violent unrest."

Pope Francis called for an end to violence in Jerusalem, saying he was following events there with concern and inviting parties to seek solutions in order to respect the multicultural identity of the Holy City.

"Violence breeds violence, stop clashes," the pope told pilgrims who gathered in St. Peter's Square in Rome on Sunday.

Israel "firmly rejects" pressure not to build in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday following days of unrest and spreading international condemnation of planned evictions of Palestinians from homes in the city claimed by Jewish settlers.

Israel "firmly rejects" pressure not to build in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday following days of unrest and spreading international condemnation of planned evictions of Palestinians from homes in the city claimed by Jewish settlers. Tensions over Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood in East Jerusalem have stoked daily confrontations. Washington said Saturday it was "deeply concerned" and wanted "authorities to approach the residents ... with compassion and respect". East Jerusalem is among territories that Palestinians seek for a future state. US-sponsored statehood negotiations with Israel stalled in 2014. Israel deems of all Jerusalem its capital - a status not recognised abroad. "We firmly reject the pressure not to build in Jerusalem. To my regret, this pressure has been increasing of late," Netanyahu said during a televised address ahead of national commemorations of the Israeli capture of East Jerusalem in a 1967 war. "I say also to the best of our friends: Jerusalem is Israel's capital and just as every nation builds in its capital and builds up its capital, we also have the right to build in Jerusalem and to build up Jerusalem. That is what we have done and that is what we will continue to do," Netanyahu said. East Jerusalem tensions have spilled over into clashes between Israeli police and Palestinians around Al-Aqsa, Islam's third-holiest mosque, at the height of the Ramadan fast month. On Saturday night, Islam's holy night of Laylat al-Qadr, Palestinian youth threw stones, lit fires and tore down police barricades in the streets leading to the walled Old City gates as officers on horseback and in riot gear used stun grenades and water cannons to repel them. Also read | Turkey's Erdogan calls Israel 'terror state' over Palestinian clashes at Al-Aqsa Netanyahu said Israel allows freedom of worship but "we will not allow any extremist element to disturb the peace in Jerusalem ... We will not allow violent unrest." Pope Francis called for an end to violence in Jerusalem, saying he was following events there with concern and inviting parties to seek solutions in order to respect the multicultural identity of the Holy City. "Violence breeds violence, stop clashes," the pope told pilgrims who gathered in St. Peter's Square in Rome on Sunday.

Netanyahu says Israel firm on Jerusalem as global concern mounts

India has reiterated its position on the Israel-Palestine conflict and pointed out its consistent support to "Palestinian nation-building efforts" during a discussion on the issue at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Speaking at the meet, India's envoy to UN &nbsp;T.S. Tirumurti highlighted New Delhi's "human resource development and institutional building" for Palestine and has "currently undertaking several projects in many sectors, including health, education and, the technology of around USD 72 million."

India has also provided over 250 scholarships for Palestinian youth and officials on an annual basis. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Tirumurti said, "India has supplied critical life-saving drugs and medical equipment to Palestine as assistance."

On the peace process, the Indian envoy reaffirmed its India's policy for "just and comprehensive solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict", welcoming "all peaceful efforts to achieve the two-State solution, through direct negotiations between the two parties."

New Delhi's policy on the issue has been supporting for a sovereign and independent Palestine living side by side in peace and security with Israel.

India has reiterated its position on the Israel-Palestine conflict and pointed out its consistent support to "Palestinian nation-building efforts" during a discussion on the issue at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

India has reiterated its position on the Israel-Palestine conflict and pointed out its consistent support to "Palestinian nation-building efforts" during a discussion on the issue at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Speaking at the meet, India's envoy to UN T.S. Tirumurti highlighted New Delhi's "human resource development and institutional building" for Palestine and has "currently undertaking several projects in many sectors, including health, education and, the technology of around USD 72 million." India has also provided over 250 scholarships for Palestinian youth and officials on an annual basis. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Tirumurti said, "India has supplied critical life-saving drugs and medical equipment to Palestine as assistance." On the peace process, the Indian envoy reaffirmed its India's policy for "just and comprehensive solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict", welcoming "all peaceful efforts to achieve the two-State solution, through direct negotiations between the two parties." New Delhi's policy on the issue has been supporting for a sovereign and independent Palestine living side by side in peace and security with Israel.

Consistently supported Palestinian nation-building efforts, says India's Tirumurti

An Israeli security officer shot a Palestinian who threw a knife towards him in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday, Israel`s military said, and Palestinian officials said the man had been killed.

The incident occurred at a road junction situated near a cluster of Israeli settlements southwest of the Palestinian town of Bethlehem, the military said in a statement.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-allegations-are-nonsense-says-israeli-minister-354228">&nbsp;Iran's allegations are 'nonsense', says Israeli minister</a>

"(A) community security officer spotted a suspect approaching the junction. Following the suspicion, the security officer and an IDF (Israeli military) soldier operated to stop the suspect by firing into the air," the statement said.

"The suspect threw a knife at the officer, who responded with fire and neutralised the suspect," the statement added.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-israel-became-a-world-leader-in-vaccinating-against-covid-19-353951">How Israel became a world leader in vaccinating against COVID-19</a>

The Palestinian health ministry confirmed the man`s death, but said it did not have details of his identity.

Israel captured and occupied the West Bank in the 1967 Middle East War. Palestinians seek the territory for a future state that would include the Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem.

An Israeli security officer shot a Palestinian who threw a knife towards him in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday, Israel`s military said, and Palestinian officials said the man had been killed.

An Israeli security officer shot a Palestinian who threw a knife towards him in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday, Israel`s military said, and Palestinian officials said the man had been killed. The incident occurred at a road junction situated near a cluster of Israeli settlements southwest of the Palestinian town of Bethlehem, the military said in a statement. Also read| Iran's allegations are 'nonsense', says Israeli minister "(A) community security officer spotted a suspect approaching the junction. Following the suspicion, the security officer and an IDF (Israeli military) soldier operated to stop the suspect by firing into the air," the statement said. "The suspect threw a knife at the officer, who responded with fire and neutralised the suspect," the statement added. Also read| How Israel became a world leader in vaccinating against COVID-19 The Palestinian health ministry confirmed the man`s death, but said it did not have details of his identity. Israel captured and occupied the West Bank in the 1967 Middle East War. Palestinians seek the territory for a future state that would include the Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem.

Israeli officer shoots dead alleged Palestinian assailant in West Bank

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday, declared Nepal's firm stand against terrorism as he added that the country called for an early conclusion of a comprehensive convention against terrorism. He was addressing United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). During his speech, he stressed on multilaterlism and two-state solution for Israel-Palestine.

"We would like to see peace and stability in the Middle East with a twostate solution for Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security with secure and recognized international borders based on 
relevant United Nations resolutions," he said

Oli said that Nepal believed in amity with all and enmity with none. But at the same time he noted in his speech that geopolitical tensions were resurfacing. He added that world needed more social funding to improve lives and not military funding to destroy them.

This is 75th General Assembly of the United Nations. In light of the coronavirus pandemic, world leaders are addressing the assembly through electronic modes.

Nepal PM Oli said Nepal was firmly committed to protect its sovereignty based on principles he mentioned earlier in his speech.

"Let's choose peace over war, co-operation over collision," he said. During his speech, he said Nepal had enduring faith in multilateralism. He added that the country was performing its due role on multilateral platforms like SAARC, BIMSTEC.

In his speech, he touched upon ongoing global conflicts.

"Nepal is deeply concerned about the worsening humanitarian situations in Libya, Syria and Yemen. Protracted conflicts inflict painful miseries to the innocent civilians.Nepal calls for peaceful resolution of all such conflicts, led and owned by the people of the respective countries," he said.

Nepal and India currently have a border dispute. Nepal included Indian terrotories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura in its national map earlier this year.

Nepalese government has now begun a new controversy by introducing a new book which showed the region of Kalapani within its boundary.&nbsp;

Nepal's education minister Giriraj Mani Pokharel has told TOI&nbsp;that the book titled as 'Nepalko Bhubhaag Ra Seesmasambandhi Swadhyay Samagri', which loosely translated as Nepal's territorial boundary and geography, has been introduced for students in higher secondary schools.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday, declared Nepal's firm stand against terrorism as he added that the country called for an early conclusion of a comprehensive convention against terrorism.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday, declared Nepal's firm stand against terrorism as he added that the country called for an early conclusion of a comprehensive convention against terrorism. He was addressing United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). During his speech, he stressed on multilaterlism and two-state solution for Israel-Palestine. "We would like to see peace and stability in the Middle East with a twostate solution for Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security with secure and recognized international borders based on relevant United Nations resolutions," he said Oli said that Nepal believed in amity with all and enmity with none. But at the same time he noted in his speech that geopolitical tensions were resurfacing. He added that world needed more social funding to improve lives and not military funding to destroy them. This is 75th General Assembly of the United Nations. In light of the coronavirus pandemic, world leaders are addressing the assembly through electronic modes. Nepal PM Oli said Nepal was firmly committed to protect its sovereignty based on principles he mentioned earlier in his speech. "Let's choose peace over war, co-operation over collision," he said. During his speech, he said Nepal had enduring faith in multilateralism. He added that the country was performing its due role on multilateral platforms like SAARC, BIMSTEC. In his speech, he touched upon ongoing global conflicts. "Nepal is deeply concerned about the worsening humanitarian situations in Libya, Syria and Yemen. Protracted conflicts inflict painful miseries to the innocent civilians.Nepal calls for peaceful resolution of all such conflicts, led and owned by the people of the respective countries," he said. Nepal and India currently have a border dispute. Nepal included Indian terrotories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura in its national map earlier this year. Nepalese government has now begun a new controversy by introducing a new book which showed the region of Kalapani within its boundary. Nepal's education minister Giriraj Mani Pokharel has told TOI that the book titled as 'Nepalko Bhubhaag Ra Seesmasambandhi Swadhyay Samagri', which loosely translated as Nepal's territorial boundary and geography, has been introduced for students in higher secondary schools.

UNGA: Nepal PM bats for multilateralism, two-state solution for Israel-Palestine

Hundreds of Moroccan protesters expressed their displeasure&nbsp;against the peace deal that established ties between Israel and UAE, Bahrain. The protesters held demonstrations outside Moroccan Parliament in capital Rabat and even burnt a mock Israeli flag. They decried the "Arab normalisation" of ties with Israel.

Though UAE and Bahrain's peace deal (Abraham Accords) with Israel is believed to have been struck with Iran in mind, many in the Arab world have taken it to be a step against Palestinian interests.

Protesters in Morocco on Saturday criticised the "treacherous countries" and "their American and Zionist allies".

"We demand the criminalisation of any normalisation" with Israel, demonstrators shouted.

The step taken by UAE and Bahrain broke decades-long consensus among Arab countries that they would not establish relation with Israel until it had made peace with Palestinians.

Before the deals, the only Arab countries to establish relations with Israel were Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994.

Interestingly, Morocco itself is widely believed to be the country next in line to normalise ties with Israel. Morocco is a strong US ally and already has trade and tourism relations with Israel. Morocco soldiers never fought on ground with Israel during the Arab-Isreali wars between 1948 and 1973. In fact, it is said that Moroccan intelligence aided Israel during 1967 war. 
&nbsp;

Hundreds of Moroccan protesters expressed their displeasure against the peace deal that established ties between Israel and UAE, Bahrain. The protesters held demonstrations outside Moroccan Parliament in capital Rabat and even burnt a mock Israeli flag.

Hundreds of Moroccan protesters expressed their displeasure against the peace deal that established ties between Israel and UAE, Bahrain. The protesters held demonstrations outside Moroccan Parliament in capital Rabat and even burnt a mock Israeli flag. They decried the "Arab normalisation" of ties with Israel. Though UAE and Bahrain's peace deal (Abraham Accords) with Israel is believed to have been struck with Iran in mind, many in the Arab world have taken it to be a step against Palestinian interests. Protesters in Morocco on Saturday criticised the "treacherous countries" and "their American and Zionist allies". "We demand the criminalisation of any normalisation" with Israel, demonstrators shouted. The step taken by UAE and Bahrain broke decades-long consensus among Arab countries that they would not establish relation with Israel until it had made peace with Palestinians. Before the deals, the only Arab countries to establish relations with Israel were Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994. Interestingly, Morocco itself is widely believed to be the country next in line to normalise ties with Israel. Morocco is a strong US ally and already has trade and tourism relations with Israel. Morocco soldiers never fought on ground with Israel during the Arab-Isreali wars between 1948 and 1973. In fact, it is said that Moroccan intelligence aided Israel during 1967 war.

Protest in Morocco against UAE and Bahrain's peace deal with Israel

Amid the breakthrough UAE-Israel peace agreement, US President Donald Trump said today that UAE is interested in buying F-35 stealth fighter jets.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/policy-on-us-arms-sales-to-uae-unchanged-says-israels-netanyahu-321443">Also Read:&nbsp;Policy on US arms sales to UAE unchanged, says Israel's Netanyahu</a>

"They would like to buy F-35s. We'll see what happens. It's under review," the US president said when asked about UAE's intent.&nbsp;

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taiwan-defence-deal-taiwan-buys-jets-from-lockheed-martin-320755/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Trump further went on to add that he expected Saudi Arabia to join the peace deal announced last week, however, Saudi foreign minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said that "peace deal must be achieved with the Palestinians" as a condition for any normalisation of relations with Israel.

The jets made by Lockheed Martin Corp is used by the Israeli Air Force. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said that he would oppose F-35 sale to the UAE. The F-35 jets have recently been purchased by Poland.

The sale of jets was first reported by Israeli media. Reports said Trump's son-in-law White House Special Advisor Jared Kushner was reportedly involved in the sale of F-35 to UAE.

The sale of the F-35 to UAE would need Congressional approval which is a long drawn process. Trump, in fact, said, "they’ve definitely got the money to pay for it."

In the UAE accord, Israel had agreed to suspend annexation of areas in occupied West Bank.&nbsp;

Amid the breakthrough UAE-Israel peace agreement, US President Donald Trump said today that UAE is interested in buying F-35 stealth fighter jets. Also Read: Policy on US arms sales to UAE unchanged, says Israel's Netanyahu "They would like to buy F-35s.

Amid the breakthrough UAE-Israel peace agreement, US President Donald Trump said today that UAE is interested in buying F-35 stealth fighter jets. Also Read: Policy on US arms sales to UAE unchanged, says Israel's Netanyahu "They would like to buy F-35s. We'll see what happens. It's under review," the US president said when asked about UAE's intent. Watch: Trump further went on to add that he expected Saudi Arabia to join the peace deal announced last week, however, Saudi foreign minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said that "peace deal must be achieved with the Palestinians" as a condition for any normalisation of relations with Israel. The jets made by Lockheed Martin Corp is used by the Israeli Air Force. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said that he would oppose F-35 sale to the UAE. The F-35 jets have recently been purchased by Poland. The sale of jets was first reported by Israeli media. Reports said Trump's son-in-law White House Special Advisor Jared Kushner was reportedly involved in the sale of F-35 to UAE. The sale of the F-35 to UAE would need Congressional approval which is a long drawn process. Trump, in fact, said, "they’ve definitely got the money to pay for it." In the UAE accord, Israel had agreed to suspend annexation of areas in occupied West Bank.

'They would like to buy F-35s': After peace accord with Israel, Trump puts fighter jets 'under review' for UAE

Israel's cabinet will meet on Sunday to finalise&nbsp;plans to annex parts of the occupied West Bank despite facing criticism and threat of sanctions for it.

According to Prime minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu&nbsp;Israel will ''apply sovereignty'' to up to 30 per cent&nbsp;of the West Bank, covering Israeli settlements and the rich agricultural lands of the Jordan Valley, from 1 July,&nbsp;in line with US President Donald Trump’s controversial so-called "Middle East plan".

Despite Netanyahu’s pledge to give the order to annex on Wednesday, he may be forced to dilute or delay the proposal after three days of deliberations at the White House last week ended without an endorsement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/israel-caught-in-the-middle-of-intensifying-rivalry-between-us-and-china-302292">Israel caught in the middle of intensifying rivalry between US and China</a>

Netanyahu had been counting on the backing of the Trump administration after it&nbsp;unveiled its “vision for peace”&nbsp;six months ago which said Jewish settlements in the West Bank,&nbsp;illegal under international law and the Jordan Valley would be incorporated into Israel.

The West Bank, which the Jewish state has occupied since the 1967 Middle East war, is home to as many as 3 million Palestinians and roughly 430,000 Israeli Jews living in scores of settlements.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/southern-israel-hit-by-two-rockets-from-gaza-israel-military-308965">Southern Israel hit by two rockets from Gaza: Israel military</a>

The plan, announced in January, proposes to establish a demilitarised Palestinian state on a patchwork of disjointed parts of the Palestinian territories.

This does not include occupied&nbsp;East Jerusalem, which the Palestinian Authority (PA) claims as the capital of a state it seeks.

Trump's Middle East plan has been largely met with scepticism and was rejected by Palestinian leaders, but Israel has taken it as a show of support for its plans to seize and extend its sovereignty over the&nbsp;occupied land.

On Friday, two rockets were fired from Gaza towards&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;a day after the Palestinian group Hamas warned that annexation amounted to a “declaration of war”. In response, Israeli air force jets struck two military facilities in the southern Gaza Strip, the army said.

The head of Mossad, the Israeli secret service, visited Amman last week to discuss the annexation plan with King Abdullah of Jordan after he&nbsp;warned of a “massive conflict” with Israel&nbsp;if it proceeded.

Israel's cabinet will meet on Sunday to finalise plans to annex parts of the occupied West Bank despite facing criticism and threat of sanctions for it. According to Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu Israel will ''apply sovereignty'' to up to 30 per cent of the West Bank, covering Israeli settlements and the rich agricultural lands of the Jordan Valley, from 1 July, in line with US President Donald Trump’s controversial so-called "Middle East plan".

Israel's cabinet will meet on Sunday to finalise plans to annex parts of the occupied West Bank despite facing criticism and threat of sanctions for it. According to Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu Israel will ''apply sovereignty'' to up to 30 per cent of the West Bank, covering Israeli settlements and the rich agricultural lands of the Jordan Valley, from 1 July, in line with US President Donald Trump’s controversial so-called "Middle East plan". Despite Netanyahu’s pledge to give the order to annex on Wednesday, he may be forced to dilute or delay the proposal after three days of deliberations at the White House last week ended without an endorsement. Also read: Israel caught in the middle of intensifying rivalry between US and China Netanyahu had been counting on the backing of the Trump administration after it unveiled its “vision for peace” six months ago which said Jewish settlements in the West Bank, illegal under international law and the Jordan Valley would be incorporated into Israel. The West Bank, which the Jewish state has occupied since the 1967 Middle East war, is home to as many as 3 million Palestinians and roughly 430,000 Israeli Jews living in scores of settlements. Also read| Southern Israel hit by two rockets from Gaza: Israel military The plan, announced in January, proposes to establish a demilitarised Palestinian state on a patchwork of disjointed parts of the Palestinian territories. This does not include occupied East Jerusalem, which the Palestinian Authority (PA) claims as the capital of a state it seeks. Trump's Middle East plan has been largely met with scepticism and was rejected by Palestinian leaders, but Israel has taken it as a show of support for its plans to seize and extend its sovereignty over the occupied land. On Friday, two rockets were fired from Gaza towards Israel a day after the Palestinian group Hamas warned that annexation amounted to a “declaration of war”. In response, Israeli air force jets struck two military facilities in the southern Gaza Strip, the army said. The head of Mossad, the Israeli secret service, visited Amman last week to discuss the annexation plan with King Abdullah of Jordan after he warned of a “massive conflict” with Israel if it proceeded.

Israel's cabinet meets to finalise annexation plans for occupied West Bank

The enmity between Israel and the militant group - Hamas dates back to decades - they refer to each other as mortal enemies.

In the last 20 years or so, the two sides have fired rockets at each other. There have been airstrikes, they have also killed each other's men. It's 2020 now, and the two sides have moved the war online.

Their latest choice of ammunition&nbsp;is the bullet of attraction - Romeo and Juliet fell for it, as did Mr Darcy. So, the Israeli soldiers and Hamas tried to lure each other into leaking out information.

The Israeli military has accused Hamas of catfishing. It said that Hamas tried to access the phones of Israeli soldiers by honey-trapping&nbsp;them.

Hamas militants posed as Israeli women seeking romance, who would only communicate via texts.

If the soldiers proposed a phone or video call, the women would claim that they have a hearing impairment or speech impediments.

After a couple of texts, the soldiers would be lured into downloading a link which was supposed to enable picture sharing.

In reality, it would download malware. The virus would give hackers access to phone data, including the phone's location and stored media.

The hackers could also remotely manipulate the phone and turn it into a recording device.&nbsp;

However, Hamas made a mistake of reusing a fake identity, one that Israel had identified in one of the previous cyber-attacks.

Which means this isn't the first time the militant group from Gaza was trying to honey trap Israeli soldiers. It's happened twice in the past.

But this time, they have even targetted IDF soldiers serving beyond the Gaza border area. What is also different this time is the medium.

In the past, Hamas has used Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. Telegram was the weapon of choice for the latest cyberattack.

According to reports, over 100 Israeli soldiers fell prey to their honey-trap. The Israeli defence forces, however, say that Hamas could cause no real damage.

Hamas and Israel have fought three wars since 2008, but over the past year, the Islamists have gradually shaped an informal truce with Israel, under which the Jewish state has eased its crippling blockade of Gaza in exchange for calm.

 
&nbsp;

The enmity between Israel and the militant group - Hamas dates back to decades - they refer to each other as mortal enemies. In the last 20 years or so, the two sides have fired rockets at each other.

The enmity between Israel and the militant group - Hamas dates back to decades - they refer to each other as mortal enemies. In the last 20 years or so, the two sides have fired rockets at each other. There have been airstrikes, they have also killed each other's men. It's 2020 now, and the two sides have moved the war online. Their latest choice of ammunition is the bullet of attraction - Romeo and Juliet fell for it, as did Mr Darcy. So, the Israeli soldiers and Hamas tried to lure each other into leaking out information. The Israeli military has accused Hamas of catfishing. It said that Hamas tried to access the phones of Israeli soldiers by honey-trapping them. Hamas militants posed as Israeli women seeking romance, who would only communicate via texts. If the soldiers proposed a phone or video call, the women would claim that they have a hearing impairment or speech impediments. After a couple of texts, the soldiers would be lured into downloading a link which was supposed to enable picture sharing. In reality, it would download malware. The virus would give hackers access to phone data, including the phone's location and stored media. The hackers could also remotely manipulate the phone and turn it into a recording device. However, Hamas made a mistake of reusing a fake identity, one that Israel had identified in one of the previous cyber-attacks. Which means this isn't the first time the militant group from Gaza was trying to honey trap Israeli soldiers. It's happened twice in the past. But this time, they have even targetted IDF soldiers serving beyond the Gaza border area. What is also different this time is the medium. In the past, Hamas has used Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. Telegram was the weapon of choice for the latest cyberattack. According to reports, over 100 Israeli soldiers fell prey to their honey-trap. The Israeli defence forces, however, say that Hamas could cause no real damage. Hamas and Israel have fought three wars since 2008, but over the past year, the Islamists have gradually shaped an informal truce with Israel, under which the Jewish state has eased its crippling blockade of Gaza in exchange for calm.

How Israeli soldiers were caught in Hamas 'honey trap'

By Yehudah Mirsky

January 28, 2020, is a date that will be remembered in Middle Eastern history – but it will take some time before anyone knows for sure how it will be remembered.

The day didn’t start well for Benjamin Netanyahu. Israel’s longest-serving prime minister also became the country’s first prime minister to be indicted while still in office. He faces multiple charges of corruption.

But Netanyahu didn’t have much time to sulk. Just a few hours later, he was standing alongside Donald Trump as the pair unveiled the US administration’s long-anticipated plan for Israeli-Palestinian peace, written in no small part in coordination with – and deeply in tune with – Netanyahu’s policies.

The fact that the plan’s unveiling came as both men face intense domestic scrutiny – the press conference interrupted coverage of Trump’s impeachment – should not be overlooked.

I have been following developments in the Middle East for a long time as a US State Department official, a lifelong student and now a professor of Israeli history, and as a dual citizen of the US and Israel. I know how complex the issues are and how past attempts at peace have fallen well short.

In Black and White

Trump’s plan comprises two different goals.

The first – fostering Israeli-Palestinian peace, or at least coexistence – is there in black and white for all to read.

The second – tying Trump and Netanyahu’s respective domestic critics into knots – is everywhere between the lines.

While the Trump administration worked on the plan in coordination with Israel and 'friendly'&nbsp;Arab states like Egypt and Saudi Arabia, it crucially did not involve the Palestinians. Palestinian resistance to the very development of this plan – out of suspicion, weakness and resentment – was met not with a carrot but a stick, with the US&nbsp;cutting all aid to Gaza and the West Bank in February 2019.

As a result, positions in the plan that might have been viewed as difficult compromises, had they been negotiated, are instead rightly seen as terms of surrender. Yes, the plan gives Palestinians a path to limited statehood, but only after ceding on the core issues of Israeli settlements, refugees and control of much of Jerusalem.

The plan was successfully kept behind the curtains while being drafted, but it now steps out onto a complicated stage.

Relations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank have for some years been in utter political stalemate, even as the two have maintained working-level security cooperation. In Hamas-run Gaza, Israel has been in a long war of attrition, mixing ongoing less-than-total violence with tacit mutual understandings aimed at managing the conflict.

Meanwhile, Israel’s ties with several Sunni Arab states, especially in the Gulf, have been deepening, united by a desire to ward off Iran and its Shia proxies in Lebanon and what remains of Syria. Jordan, structurally weak but strategically important due to its location and links to Arab and Islamic actors, balances contending forces with skill and jitters.

Internal Palestinian politics are riven by the bitter rivalry between the nationalist Palestinian Authority and the Islamist group Hamas and by discontent with the Palestinian Authority’s President Mahmoud Abbas’ hold on power amid claims of corruption and mismanagement in the Palestinian semi-government.

Israeli politics is stalemated, too, and headed for its third round of parliamentary elections in less than a year, spurred by fallout from Netanyahu’s corruption scandals and fragmented opposition.

Many Israelis are alienated by Netanyahu’s endless legal troubles and divisive politics, but others are kindled by his attacks on political opponents. Meanwhile the Israeli left has failed to recover the credibility it lost on security issues following the collapse of 2000’s Camp David talks and the ensuing Second Intifada.

As for Trump, he remains popular in Israel – including among centrists, who don’t necessarily follow day-to-day US&nbsp;politics and look unfavourably on former President Barack Obama’s handling of the Middle East.

At home, Trump’s policies on Israel do not reflect that of the majority of American Jews, who tend to be politically liberal and supportive of a mutually negotiated two-state solution. Rather, Trump’s views chime with that of the smaller but more fervent American Jewish right, and above all with the millions of evangelicals who are a key plank of the president’s base.

Into all this drops the 180-page peace plan – whose heart is creating a legally recognized but geographically tiny and fragmented Palestinian state without full military powers – something that falls way short of Palestinian aspirations. Some parts of the plan are not unreasonable, and the many failed attempts at peacemaking to date call for fresh thinking. But the problems in this plan are very real.

It stakes out strong positions on the three hard issues that have bedevilled negotiations time and again: Israeli settlements, the status of Jerusalem and the right of return for Palestinian refugees.

The Trump plan leaves all Israeli settlements in place and proposes a network of roads and tunnels to help Palestinian move around the cantons that would make up their state.

It also freezes Jerusalem’s status quo and makes permanent Israel’s security barrier between the city’s east and west. As for the Palestinians who fled or were forced out of their homes in the 1948 war and their descendants, the plan says they are to be financially compensated. A few will be absorbed into Israel, but most will be integrated into either the envisioned Palestinian state or their current country of residence – which includes the Arab states that have refused to absorb them to date.

These stances will be politically helpful to Netanyahu and congenial to many Israelis, who want to end the country’s occupation of the Palestinians, if their own personal security can be assured.

To the Palestinians, they represent bitter pills, each of which would be hard enough to swallow on its own.

Reaction to the plan has led to talk of a possible reconciliation between the Palestinian Authority and Hamas, something Israel has been trying to avoid – and put security forces on alert for further violence.

Another problem is in the thinking that is evident in the plan’s title, “Peace to Prosperity.” Blueprints for economic development are woven throughout. The ideas are laudable. But the notion that the most fervently committed Jews and Arabs will trade away their deepest convictions for financial gain is as unlikely to take hold now as it did in the Oslo Accords of the 1990s.

&nbsp;And red lines all over 
 
So what happens now?

Netanyahu has announced he will begin to annex territory, in a move his main political challenger, former Army Chief of Staff Benny Gantz, described as “reckless and irresponsible,” even as he says he accepts the plan’s broad outlines for an eventual settlement. The Palestinians for their part have rejected the proposals and taken to the streets in protest.

The plan raises some serious, immediate questions: How much unilateral action will Netanyahu take without paying a domestic price – especially with Israelis returning to the polls in March? And what responses are open to the Palestinians, other than the tried-and-failed turns to violence and appeals to the UN&nbsp;– neither of which will move Israeli public opinion in their direction?

Above all, the questions we should be asking are: What does this or any plan do concretely to improve the lives of people in the region? What practical steps could be taken to make viable coexistence – peace is too strong a word – further down the line possible or at least avert new violence triggered by thwarted expectations?

There is no easy solution to the bitter Israel-Palestinian conflict. Unilateral annexation by Israel will only further Palestinian resentment and rejectionism. Too many people, in Washington as well as the Middle East, view the conflict in terms of ideological dreams and agendas, paying little heed to the real needs of people on the ground, Israeli and Palestinian alike. Should this plan become, like so many of its predecessors, a political football on both sides of the ocean, the people who make their homes and live their lives on politicians’ playing fields will lose. 
 
(Yehudah Mirsky is Professor of Near Eastern and Judaic Studies, Brandeis University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/has-trump-proposed-a-middle-east-peace-plan-or-terms-of-surrender-for-the-palestinians-130677">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

By Yehudah Mirsky January 28, 2020, is a date that will be remembered in Middle Eastern history – but it will take some time before anyone knows for sure how it will be remembered.

By Yehudah Mirsky January 28, 2020, is a date that will be remembered in Middle Eastern history – but it will take some time before anyone knows for sure how it will be remembered. The day didn’t start well for Benjamin Netanyahu. Israel’s longest-serving prime minister also became the country’s first prime minister to be indicted while still in office. He faces multiple charges of corruption. But Netanyahu didn’t have much time to sulk. Just a few hours later, he was standing alongside Donald Trump as the pair unveiled the US administration’s long-anticipated plan for Israeli-Palestinian peace, written in no small part in coordination with – and deeply in tune with – Netanyahu’s policies. The fact that the plan’s unveiling came as both men face intense domestic scrutiny – the press conference interrupted coverage of Trump’s impeachment – should not be overlooked. I have been following developments in the Middle East for a long time as a US State Department official, a lifelong student and now a professor of Israeli history, and as a dual citizen of the US and Israel. I know how complex the issues are and how past attempts at peace have fallen well short. In Black and White Trump’s plan comprises two different goals. The first – fostering Israeli-Palestinian peace, or at least coexistence – is there in black and white for all to read. The second – tying Trump and Netanyahu’s respective domestic critics into knots – is everywhere between the lines. While the Trump administration worked on the plan in coordination with Israel and 'friendly' Arab states like Egypt and Saudi Arabia, it crucially did not involve the Palestinians. Palestinian resistance to the very development of this plan – out of suspicion, weakness and resentment – was met not with a carrot but a stick, with the US cutting all aid to Gaza and the West Bank in February 2019. As a result, positions in the plan that might have been viewed as difficult compromises, had they been negotiated, are instead rightly seen as terms of surrender. Yes, the plan gives Palestinians a path to limited statehood, but only after ceding on the core issues of Israeli settlements, refugees and control of much of Jerusalem. The plan was successfully kept behind the curtains while being drafted, but it now steps out onto a complicated stage. Relations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank have for some years been in utter political stalemate, even as the two have maintained working-level security cooperation. In Hamas-run Gaza, Israel has been in a long war of attrition, mixing ongoing less-than-total violence with tacit mutual understandings aimed at managing the conflict. Meanwhile, Israel’s ties with several Sunni Arab states, especially in the Gulf, have been deepening, united by a desire to ward off Iran and its Shia proxies in Lebanon and what remains of Syria. Jordan, structurally weak but strategically important due to its location and links to Arab and Islamic actors, balances contending forces with skill and jitters. Internal Palestinian politics are riven by the bitter rivalry between the nationalist Palestinian Authority and the Islamist group Hamas and by discontent with the Palestinian Authority’s President Mahmoud Abbas’ hold on power amid claims of corruption and mismanagement in the Palestinian semi-government. Israeli politics is stalemated, too, and headed for its third round of parliamentary elections in less than a year, spurred by fallout from Netanyahu’s corruption scandals and fragmented opposition. Many Israelis are alienated by Netanyahu’s endless legal troubles and divisive politics, but others are kindled by his attacks on political opponents. Meanwhile the Israeli left has failed to recover the credibility it lost on security issues following the collapse of 2000’s Camp David talks and the ensuing Second Intifada. As for Trump, he remains popular in Israel – including among centrists, who don’t necessarily follow day-to-day US politics and look unfavourably on former President Barack Obama’s handling of the Middle East. At home, Trump’s policies on Israel do not reflect that of the majority of American Jews, who tend to be politically liberal and supportive of a mutually negotiated two-state solution. Rather, Trump’s views chime with that of the smaller but more fervent American Jewish right, and above all with the millions of evangelicals who are a key plank of the president’s base. Into all this drops the 180-page peace plan – whose heart is creating a legally recognized but geographically tiny and fragmented Palestinian state without full military powers – something that falls way short of Palestinian aspirations. Some parts of the plan are not unreasonable, and the many failed attempts at peacemaking to date call for fresh thinking. But the problems in this plan are very real. It stakes out strong positions on the three hard issues that have bedevilled negotiations time and again: Israeli settlements, the status of Jerusalem and the right of return for Palestinian refugees. The Trump plan leaves all Israeli settlements in place and proposes a network of roads and tunnels to help Palestinian move around the cantons that would make up their state. It also freezes Jerusalem’s status quo and makes permanent Israel’s security barrier between the city’s east and west. As for the Palestinians who fled or were forced out of their homes in the 1948 war and their descendants, the plan says they are to be financially compensated. A few will be absorbed into Israel, but most will be integrated into either the envisioned Palestinian state or their current country of residence – which includes the Arab states that have refused to absorb them to date. These stances will be politically helpful to Netanyahu and congenial to many Israelis, who want to end the country’s occupation of the Palestinians, if their own personal security can be assured. To the Palestinians, they represent bitter pills, each of which would be hard enough to swallow on its own. Reaction to the plan has led to talk of a possible reconciliation between the Palestinian Authority and Hamas, something Israel has been trying to avoid – and put security forces on alert for further violence. Another problem is in the thinking that is evident in the plan’s title, “Peace to Prosperity.” Blueprints for economic development are woven throughout. The ideas are laudable. But the notion that the most fervently committed Jews and Arabs will trade away their deepest convictions for financial gain is as unlikely to take hold now as it did in the Oslo Accords of the 1990s. And red lines all over So what happens now? Netanyahu has announced he will begin to annex territory, in a move his main political challenger, former Army Chief of Staff Benny Gantz, described as “reckless and irresponsible,” even as he says he accepts the plan’s broad outlines for an eventual settlement. The Palestinians for their part have rejected the proposals and taken to the streets in protest. The plan raises some serious, immediate questions: How much unilateral action will Netanyahu take without paying a domestic price – especially with Israelis returning to the polls in March? And what responses are open to the Palestinians, other than the tried-and-failed turns to violence and appeals to the UN – neither of which will move Israeli public opinion in their direction? Above all, the questions we should be asking are: What does this or any plan do concretely to improve the lives of people in the region? What practical steps could be taken to make viable coexistence – peace is too strong a word – further down the line possible or at least avert new violence triggered by thwarted expectations? There is no easy solution to the bitter Israel-Palestinian conflict. Unilateral annexation by Israel will only further Palestinian resentment and rejectionism. Too many people, in Washington as well as the Middle East, view the conflict in terms of ideological dreams and agendas, paying little heed to the real needs of people on the ground, Israeli and Palestinian alike. Should this plan become, like so many of its predecessors, a political football on both sides of the ocean, the people who make their homes and live their lives on politicians’ playing fields will lose. (Yehudah Mirsky is Professor of Near Eastern and Judaic Studies, Brandeis University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Has Donald Trump proposed a Middle East peace plan – or terms of surrender for the Palestinians?

International Summits, secret negotiations, UN resolutions and several failed peace plans - &nbsp;those words sum up the story of the Israel-Palestine peace process.

As many as three American Presidents have tried to broker peace, but all of them have failed. Donald Trump is the fourth President to try and find a resolution to what seems like an irresolvable problem.&nbsp;

But even before he could finish taking a victory lap with Netanyahu, critics have ripped apart his peace deal - it was deal that was dead on arrival.

The answer to that question is quite clear, none of the parties is even willing to concede an inch during the negotiations, and with each round of negotiations - America's position to influence both parties has only declined.

At the core of this dispute is a deep mistrust between Israel and Palestine. The continuous violence and conflicts between both parties have now become the status quo. Between March and November last year, Israel forces killed 189 Palestinian demonstrators. 
 
WATCH:&nbsp;

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More than five thousand were hurt by live fire. Both sides actually believe that managing the violence is a much better option than to taking a risk to negotiate peace.

Moreover, there is no viable, realistic deal that both sides would accept. Both sides claim Jerusalem as their capital. Dividing it between the two sides is tough. Jerusalem is the home to Jewish and Muslim holy sites, and growing Israeli settlements around the city will make any division hard.

Similarly, there is no agreement on where to draw the borders at the west bank. There more seven million Palestinians who want a right to return. If Israel was to absorb that, then the jews will become a minority.

And finally the security issue? For Israel, arming Palestine is a security threat - they fear Palestinians could turn hostile at any time and join hands with rivals like Iran.

Trump's negotiating tactics have only reduced the likelihood of a deal. America's decision to side with Israel has effectively pushed the Palestinians away from the negotiating table.

Under Trump, America has moved the American embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and recognised the contested Golan Heights as part of Israel. Furthermore, the US termed Israeli settlements in the west bank as legal.

The US has closed a Palestinian Mission in Washington and aid to Palestinian refugees has also been cut.

Trump offered a peace plan without consulting any Palestinian leader.&nbsp;

Its time for America to face the truth. In more than 25 years, it has failed to secure peace between Israel and Palestine. And Trump's deal only heightens tensions.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

International Summits, secret negotiations, UN resolutions and several failed peace plans - those words sum up the story of the Israel-Palestine peace process. As many as three American Presidents have tried to broker peace, but all of them have failed.

International Summits, secret negotiations, UN resolutions and several failed peace plans - those words sum up the story of the Israel-Palestine peace process. As many as three American Presidents have tried to broker peace, but all of them have failed. Donald Trump is the fourth President to try and find a resolution to what seems like an irresolvable problem. But even before he could finish taking a victory lap with Netanyahu, critics have ripped apart his peace deal - it was deal that was dead on arrival. The answer to that question is quite clear, none of the parties is even willing to concede an inch during the negotiations, and with each round of negotiations - America's position to influence both parties has only declined. At the core of this dispute is a deep mistrust between Israel and Palestine. The continuous violence and conflicts between both parties have now become the status quo. Between March and November last year, Israel forces killed 189 Palestinian demonstrators. WATCH: × More than five thousand were hurt by live fire. Both sides actually believe that managing the violence is a much better option than to taking a risk to negotiate peace. Moreover, there is no viable, realistic deal that both sides would accept. Both sides claim Jerusalem as their capital. Dividing it between the two sides is tough. Jerusalem is the home to Jewish and Muslim holy sites, and growing Israeli settlements around the city will make any division hard. Similarly, there is no agreement on where to draw the borders at the west bank. There more seven million Palestinians who want a right to return. If Israel was to absorb that, then the jews will become a minority. And finally the security issue? For Israel, arming Palestine is a security threat - they fear Palestinians could turn hostile at any time and join hands with rivals like Iran. Trump's negotiating tactics have only reduced the likelihood of a deal. America's decision to side with Israel has effectively pushed the Palestinians away from the negotiating table. Under Trump, America has moved the American embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and recognised the contested Golan Heights as part of Israel. Furthermore, the US termed Israeli settlements in the west bank as legal. The US has closed a Palestinian Mission in Washington and aid to Palestinian refugees has also been cut. Trump offered a peace plan without consulting any Palestinian leader. Its time for America to face the truth. In more than 25 years, it has failed to secure peace between Israel and Palestine. And Trump's deal only heightens tensions. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

Wion Edit: Why peace remains elusive in West Asia

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-in-gaza-after-rocket-attack-266911">Israel edged closer</a> to a third election within a year Monday as neither the embattled premier Benjamin Netanyahu nor his main rival appeared close to forming a government two days before a deadline.

Right-winger Netanyahu and former army general Benny Gantz, who leads the centrist Blue and White alliance, traded blame over the impasse ahead of Wednesday, the last opportunity to form a coalition and avoid fresh polls.

A new election would be a repeat of September's deadlocked vote, which in itself was a response to inconclusive April polls, and would further deepen the political turmoil in the Jewish state.

"We made offer after offer and got nothing. Nada," Netanyahu said Sunday at a conference organised by a conservative Israeli newspaper. "Blue and White did not budge a millimetre."

The two parties have been discussing forming a unity coalition but Gantz has rejected serving under Netanyahu, pointing to his indictment&nbsp;on a string of corruption charges.

"People think that acts of corruption can be forgiven because of one political circumstance or another," Gantz told the same conference. "The support of the people who want to protect the prime minister causes them to be blind."

Following the inconclusive elections in September, both Netanyahu and Gantz were given 28-day periods to try and negotiate a workable coalition in Israel's proportional political system.

Neither was able to get the support of more than half of the 120-seat Knesset, or parliament.

Down to the wire

President Reuven Rivlin then turned to parliament in the hope of avoiding an unpopular election.

But the 21-day period he granted parliament to find a suitable candidate expires at 11:59 pm&nbsp;on Wednesday.

If <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-foreign-minister-says-he-hopes-jeremy-corbyn-loses-british-election-266430">nothing changes by then</a>, new polls will be called for, most likely to be held in March.

Theoretically, any member of parliament could try and gain the necessary support, but Netanyahu and Gantz remain the only realistic contenders.

A last-minute deal could still be reached with the help of a kingmaker in a political system where such battles often go down to the wire.

Avigdor Lieberman, whose secular nationalist Yisrael Beitenu party has eight seats and holds the balance of power, could decide to throw his support behind either bloc.

He has so far refused to back either, accusing Gantz of being reliant on the support of Israel's Arab minority and Netanyahu of being at the whim of ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties.

He prefers a unity government, but weeks of talks have faltered.&nbsp;

Most Israeli media Monday reported little movement in the negotiations, setting the stage for new elections.

Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu agrees to party elections

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-pm-netanyahu-agrees-for-party-election-264411/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Internal challenge

Netanyahu's political problems are intertwined with his legal woes,&nbsp;Israel's attorney general last month indicted him for bribery, fraud and breach of trust.

He strongly denies the allegations and accuses the country's&nbsp;media, police and prosecution of a witchhunt.

No date has yet been set for the beginning of the proceedings.

Under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-occupation-costs-palestinian-economy-25-bn-a-year-un-265772">Israeli law Netanyahu</a>, the country's longest-serving prime minister can remain in office despite an indictment.

A new poll Monday by Israel's public broadcaster Kan found that Netanyahu's Likud and Blue and White would again be deadlocked if elections were held today.

But if they do take place, Netanyahu might face yet another battle,&nbsp;this time over the leadership of Likud.

Gideon Saar, a&nbsp;rival within the party, has called for a primary vote before any new election, though no decision has been taken yet on the idea.

On Sunday, both Saar and Netanyahu spoke at a closed-door meeting of Likud's central committee attended by around 800 people.

According to sources within the meeting cited by the Israeli press, Saar received a warm welcome from his supporters but shouts of "traitor" from Netanyahu backers.

Saar later posted a video on his Facebook page of supporters chanting his name at the event.

"The attempts to delegitimize and besmirch those who seek to run (against Netanyahu) are against the Likud's democratic spirit," he told the crowd.&nbsp;

"A democratic competition strengthens the movement."

Israel edged closer to a third election within a year Monday as neither the embattled premier Benjamin Netanyahu nor his main rival appeared close to forming a government two days before a deadline.

Israel edged closer to a third election within a year Monday as neither the embattled premier Benjamin Netanyahu nor his main rival appeared close to forming a government two days before a deadline. Right-winger Netanyahu and former army general Benny Gantz, who leads the centrist Blue and White alliance, traded blame over the impasse ahead of Wednesday, the last opportunity to form a coalition and avoid fresh polls. A new election would be a repeat of September's deadlocked vote, which in itself was a response to inconclusive April polls, and would further deepen the political turmoil in the Jewish state. "We made offer after offer and got nothing. Nada," Netanyahu said Sunday at a conference organised by a conservative Israeli newspaper. "Blue and White did not budge a millimetre." The two parties have been discussing forming a unity coalition but Gantz has rejected serving under Netanyahu, pointing to his indictment on a string of corruption charges. "People think that acts of corruption can be forgiven because of one political circumstance or another," Gantz told the same conference. "The support of the people who want to protect the prime minister causes them to be blind." Following the inconclusive elections in September, both Netanyahu and Gantz were given 28-day periods to try and negotiate a workable coalition in Israel's proportional political system. Neither was able to get the support of more than half of the 120-seat Knesset, or parliament. Down to the wire President Reuven Rivlin then turned to parliament in the hope of avoiding an unpopular election. But the 21-day period he granted parliament to find a suitable candidate expires at 11:59 pm on Wednesday. If nothing changes by then, new polls will be called for, most likely to be held in March. Theoretically, any member of parliament could try and gain the necessary support, but Netanyahu and Gantz remain the only realistic contenders. A last-minute deal could still be reached with the help of a kingmaker in a political system where such battles often go down to the wire. Avigdor Lieberman, whose secular nationalist Yisrael Beitenu party has eight seats and holds the balance of power, could decide to throw his support behind either bloc. He has so far refused to back either, accusing Gantz of being reliant on the support of Israel's Arab minority and Netanyahu of being at the whim of ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties. He prefers a unity government, but weeks of talks have faltered. Most Israeli media Monday reported little movement in the negotiations, setting the stage for new elections. Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu agrees to party elections Internal challenge Netanyahu's political problems are intertwined with his legal woes, Israel's attorney general last month indicted him for bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He strongly denies the allegations and accuses the country's media, police and prosecution of a witchhunt. No date has yet been set for the beginning of the proceedings. Under Israeli law Netanyahu, the country's longest-serving prime minister can remain in office despite an indictment. A new poll Monday by Israel's public broadcaster Kan found that Netanyahu's Likud and Blue and White would again be deadlocked if elections were held today. But if they do take place, Netanyahu might face yet another battle, this time over the leadership of Likud. Gideon Saar, a rival within the party, has called for a primary vote before any new election, though no decision has been taken yet on the idea. On Sunday, both Saar and Netanyahu spoke at a closed-door meeting of Likud's central committee attended by around 800 people. According to sources within the meeting cited by the Israeli press, Saar received a warm welcome from his supporters but shouts of "traitor" from Netanyahu backers. Saar later posted a video on his Facebook page of supporters chanting his name at the event. "The attempts to delegitimize and besmirch those who seek to run (against Netanyahu) are against the Likud's democratic spirit," he told the crowd. "A democratic competition strengthens the movement."

Deadlocked Israel faces repeat vote with deadline nearing

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-justice-ministry-indicts-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-for-fraud-breach-of-trust-and-corruption-263741">Israel's Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;on Thursday became the country's first prime minister to be indicted in office, on&nbsp;corruption&nbsp;charges, but defiantly condemned the "coup" against him and vowed to hold onto power.

The shock announcement compounded the political chaos gripping Israel, which has been without a government for months and faces the prospect of its third election in a year.

After&nbsp;months of suspense, Israel's longest-serving premier was charged by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit with&nbsp;bribery, fraud and breach of trust.&nbsp;

Netanyahu&nbsp;immediately hit back in an often vitriolic 15-minute speech, accusing the judiciary, police and others of plotting against him with "false" and "politically motivated" allegations.

"What is going on here is an attempt to stage a coup against the prime minister," he charged in a televised address.

"The object of the investigations was to oust the right from the government."

He vowed to stay on as interim premier despite potential court dates and intense political pressure.

"I will continue to lead this country, according to the letter of the law," he said.

Political rival Benny Gantz, who had been trying to form a coalition government, said it was a "very sad" day for Israel to indict a leader, but called on&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;to "step down from his position and focus on the charges against him".

"There is no coup in Israel, but rather those that have barricaded themselves in power," he said.

Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu indicted for fraud, breach of trust, and bribery

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'Hard and sad day'

The 70-year-old premier, nicknamed "Mr Security" and "King Bibi", has been in power since 2009 and dominates Israel's political scene.

The&nbsp;indictment&nbsp;comes with crunch talks due on forming a government,&nbsp;after&nbsp;two inconclusive general elections left the country's political system deadlocked.&nbsp;

Netanyahu&nbsp;is not legally required to resign unless he is convicted and any subsequent appeals process is exhausted, but political pressure is likely to be intense.

He may now <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-president-asks-parliament-to-find-new-pm-and-avoid-elections-263705">ask the parliament</a>, or Knesset, to grant him immunity from prosecution.

The charges against&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;range from receiving gifts worth thousands of dollars to a deal to change regulatory frameworks in favour of a media group in exchange for positive coverage.

Mandelblit said it was a "hard and sad day" for Israel to indict a leader, but it showed no citizen was above the law.

"The citizens of Israel, all of us, and myself, look up to the elected officials, and first and foremost to the prime minister," Mandelblit said.

"Law enforcement is not a choice. It is not a matter of right or left. It's not a matter of politics."

On a day of high political drama, dozens of&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;supporters gathered outside his official residence, many holding pictures of the&nbsp;PM&nbsp;and slogans attacking Mandelblit.&nbsp;

"We are all&nbsp;Netanyahu," one sign read.

But on Twitter, many hailed the day's events, and "happy day" quickly became Israel's top trending phrase.

'Fight for political life'

A perennial fighter,&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;has outlived many political rivals. Hugh Lovatt, an Israel-Palestine analyst at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said he wouldn't give up power easily.

"Now more than ever&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;will be fighting for his political and personal life," Lovatt said.

Of the three cases against&nbsp;Netanyahu, the third, known as Case 4,000, is seen as the most serious and carries&nbsp;bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges.

He is alleged to have negotiated with Shaul Elovitch, the controlling shareholder of&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;telecommunications giant Bezeq, to secure positive coverage on his Walla! news site in exchange for policies benefiting Bezeq.

Elovitch and his wife were also indicted.

Case 1,000 involves allegations&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;and his family received gifts including luxury cigars, champagne and jewellery from wealthy individuals, estimated to be worth more than 700,000 shekels ($200,000, 185,000 euros), in exchange for financial or personal favours.

Another, Case 2,000, concerns allegations&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;sought a deal with the owner of the Yediot Aharonot newspaper that would have seen it give him more favourable coverage.

Political turmoil

The next steps in the process remain unclear, with no trial date yet set.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-celebrate-palestinians-rail-against-us-settlement-move-263167">The developments</a> were set to only deepen the political turmoil in Israel, which has been without a stable majority government for much of the year.

Neither Likud leader&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;nor rival Gantz, head of the centrist Blue and White party, have been able to form a coalition government following deadlocked elections in April and September.

Netanyahu&nbsp;has remained interim prime minister.

The Knesset has 21 days remaining to find a candidate capable of commanding the support of the majority of the country's 120 MPs, and the&nbsp;indictment&nbsp;is likely to strengthen former army chief Gantz's&nbsp;claims.

Gantz has reportedly tried to woo Likud MPs to join him in a broad national unity government, but so far there have been no takers.

Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday became the country's first prime minister to be indicted in office, on corruption charges, but defiantly condemned the "coup" against him and vowed to hold onto power.

Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday became the country's first prime minister to be indicted in office, on corruption charges, but defiantly condemned the "coup" against him and vowed to hold onto power. The shock announcement compounded the political chaos gripping Israel, which has been without a government for months and faces the prospect of its third election in a year. After months of suspense, Israel's longest-serving premier was charged by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit with bribery, fraud and breach of trust. Netanyahu immediately hit back in an often vitriolic 15-minute speech, accusing the judiciary, police and others of plotting against him with "false" and "politically motivated" allegations. "What is going on here is an attempt to stage a coup against the prime minister," he charged in a televised address. "The object of the investigations was to oust the right from the government." He vowed to stay on as interim premier despite potential court dates and intense political pressure. "I will continue to lead this country, according to the letter of the law," he said. Political rival Benny Gantz, who had been trying to form a coalition government, said it was a "very sad" day for Israel to indict a leader, but called on Netanyahu to "step down from his position and focus on the charges against him". "There is no coup in Israel, but rather those that have barricaded themselves in power," he said. Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu indicted for fraud, breach of trust, and bribery 'Hard and sad day' The 70-year-old premier, nicknamed "Mr Security" and "King Bibi", has been in power since 2009 and dominates Israel's political scene. The indictment comes with crunch talks due on forming a government, after two inconclusive general elections left the country's political system deadlocked. Netanyahu is not legally required to resign unless he is convicted and any subsequent appeals process is exhausted, but political pressure is likely to be intense. He may now ask the parliament, or Knesset, to grant him immunity from prosecution. The charges against Netanyahu range from receiving gifts worth thousands of dollars to a deal to change regulatory frameworks in favour of a media group in exchange for positive coverage. Mandelblit said it was a "hard and sad day" for Israel to indict a leader, but it showed no citizen was above the law. "The citizens of Israel, all of us, and myself, look up to the elected officials, and first and foremost to the prime minister," Mandelblit said. "Law enforcement is not a choice. It is not a matter of right or left. It's not a matter of politics." On a day of high political drama, dozens of Netanyahu supporters gathered outside his official residence, many holding pictures of the PM and slogans attacking Mandelblit. "We are all Netanyahu," one sign read. But on Twitter, many hailed the day's events, and "happy day" quickly became Israel's top trending phrase. 'Fight for political life' A perennial fighter, Netanyahu has outlived many political rivals. Hugh Lovatt, an Israel-Palestine analyst at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said he wouldn't give up power easily. "Now more than ever Netanyahu will be fighting for his political and personal life," Lovatt said. Of the three cases against Netanyahu, the third, known as Case 4,000, is seen as the most serious and carries bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges. He is alleged to have negotiated with Shaul Elovitch, the controlling shareholder of Israeli telecommunications giant Bezeq, to secure positive coverage on his Walla! news site in exchange for policies benefiting Bezeq. Elovitch and his wife were also indicted. Case 1,000 involves allegations Netanyahu and his family received gifts including luxury cigars, champagne and jewellery from wealthy individuals, estimated to be worth more than 700,000 shekels ($200,000, 185,000 euros), in exchange for financial or personal favours. Another, Case 2,000, concerns allegations Netanyahu sought a deal with the owner of the Yediot Aharonot newspaper that would have seen it give him more favourable coverage. Political turmoil The next steps in the process remain unclear, with no trial date yet set. The developments were set to only deepen the political turmoil in Israel, which has been without a stable majority government for much of the year. Neither Likud leader Netanyahu nor rival Gantz, head of the centrist Blue and White party, have been able to form a coalition government following deadlocked elections in April and September. Netanyahu has remained interim prime minister. The Knesset has 21 days remaining to find a candidate capable of commanding the support of the majority of the country's 120 MPs, and the indictment is likely to strengthen former army chief Gantz's claims. Gantz has reportedly tried to woo Likud MPs to join him in a broad national unity government, but so far there have been no takers.

Israel's Netanyahu defies 'coup against him' amid corruption charges

After Syria's state news agency reported the country's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rockets-fired-from-syria-intercepted-israel-army-263080">air defences destroyed missiles</a> fired from Israel, the Israeli army confirmed it&nbsp;was aimed at Syrian and Iranian "terror targets" near Damascus on Wednesday morning.

"We just carried out wide-scale strikes of Iranian Quds Force &amp; Syrian Armed Forces targets in Syria in response to the rockets fired at Israel by an Iranian force in Syria last night," the Israel Defense Forces tweeted.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: We just carried out wide-scale strikes of Iranian Quds Force &amp; Syrian Armed Forces targets in Syria in response to the rockets fired at Israel by an Iranian force in Syria last night.
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1196973332689833985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"During our strike of Iranian &amp; Syrian terror targets, a Syrian air defence missile was fired despite clear warnings to refrain from such fire. As a result, a number of Syrian aerial defence batteries were destroyed," it said in its tweet, adding, "We hold the Syrian regime responsible for the actions that take place in Syrian territory and warn them against allowing further attacks against Israel."

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During our strike of Iranian &amp; Syrian terror targets, a Syrian air defense missile was fired despite clear warnings to refrain from such fire. As a result, a number of Syrian aerial defense batteries were destroyed.
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1196973334963138560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We will continue operating firmly and for as long as necessary against the Iranian entrenchment in Syria," Israel's Army added.

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We hold the Syrian regime responsible for the actions that take place in Syrian territory and warn them against allowing further attacks against Israel. 
 
We will continue operating firmly and for as long as necessary against the Iranian entrenchment in Syria.
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1196973337492230144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Israel's military had said on Tuesday&nbsp;its missile defence system had shot down four rockets fired from Syria.

"Four launches were identified from Syria towards Israeli territory which were intercepted by the Israeli air defence systems," the army had said. "No hits on Israeli communities were identified."

The Israeli strikes come as tensions have increased after in Gaza after the Israeli defence force killed an &nbsp;Islamic Jihad leader a fortnight ago. The Islamic Jihad fired several hundred rockets at Israel as Netayanhu's government retaliated with airstrikes and missiles aimed at Gaza militants.

After Syria's state news agency reported the country's air defences destroyed missiles fired from Israel, the Israeli army confirmed it was aimed at Syrian and Iranian "terror targets" near Damascus on Wednesday morning.

After Syria's state news agency reported the country's air defences destroyed missiles fired from Israel, the Israeli army confirmed it was aimed at Syrian and Iranian "terror targets" near Damascus on Wednesday morning. "We just carried out wide-scale strikes of Iranian Quds Force & Syrian Armed Forces targets in Syria in response to the rockets fired at Israel by an Iranian force in Syria last night," the Israel Defense Forces tweeted. #BREAKING: We just carried out wide-scale strikes of Iranian Quds Force & Syrian Armed Forces targets in Syria in response to the rockets fired at Israel by an Iranian force in Syria last night. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) November 20, 2019 × "During our strike of Iranian & Syrian terror targets, a Syrian air defence missile was fired despite clear warnings to refrain from such fire. As a result, a number of Syrian aerial defence batteries were destroyed," it said in its tweet, adding, "We hold the Syrian regime responsible for the actions that take place in Syrian territory and warn them against allowing further attacks against Israel." During our strike of Iranian & Syrian terror targets, a Syrian air defense missile was fired despite clear warnings to refrain from such fire. As a result, a number of Syrian aerial defense batteries were destroyed. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) November 20, 2019 × "We will continue operating firmly and for as long as necessary against the Iranian entrenchment in Syria," Israel's Army added. We hold the Syrian regime responsible for the actions that take place in Syrian territory and warn them against allowing further attacks against Israel. We will continue operating firmly and for as long as necessary against the Iranian entrenchment in Syria. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) November 20, 2019 × Israel's military had said on Tuesday its missile defence system had shot down four rockets fired from Syria. "Four launches were identified from Syria towards Israeli territory which were intercepted by the Israeli air defence systems," the army had said. "No hits on Israeli communities were identified." The Israeli strikes come as tensions have increased after in Gaza after the Israeli defence force killed an Islamic Jihad leader a fortnight ago. The Islamic Jihad fired several hundred rockets at Israel as Netayanhu's government retaliated with airstrikes and missiles aimed at Gaza militants.

We carried out strikes on Iran's Quds Force, Syrian targets: Israel army

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../how-saudi-iranian-oil-rivalry-has-been-shaped- by-american-power-262097">&nbsp;Iran</a> is not calling for the elimination of Jewish people, but it thinks people of all religions should decide Israel's future, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../uae-calls-for-iran-talks-with-world-powers- region-261152">Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a> said on Friday in a speech posted on his official website.

"Calling for the elimination of the state of Israel does not mean the elimination of the Jewish people ... it means that the people of Palestine - be they Muslim, Christian or Jewish - should choose their own government," Khamenei told an Islamic conference in Tehran.

Since its Islamic Revolution in 1979 Iran has refused to recognise Israel and has backed militant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../israel-strikes-islamic-jihad-targets-in-gaza- despite-ceasefire-262274">Palestinian groups</a>.

Iran is not calling for the elimination of Jewish people, but it thinks people of all religions should decide Israel's future, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Friday in a speech posted on his official website.

Iran is not calling for the elimination of Jewish people, but it thinks people of all religions should decide Israel's future, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Friday in a speech posted on his official website. "Calling for the elimination of the state of Israel does not mean the elimination of the Jewish people ... it means that the people of Palestine - be they Muslim, Christian or Jewish - should choose their own government," Khamenei told an Islamic conference in Tehran. Since its Islamic Revolution in 1979 Iran has refused to recognise Israel and has backed militant Palestinian groups.

Khamenei: Iran not calling for elimination of Jews, wants non-sectarian Israel

Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad said an Egyptian-mediated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-jihad-offers-egypt-mediated-ceasefire-terms-to-israel-as-death-toll-mounts-261923">truce with Israel</a> was in force in the Gaza Strip as of 0330 GMT on Thursday, and a Reuters witness confirmed that fighting had subsided.

An Islamic Jihad official told Reuters that Israel had agreed to the faction's demand that it cease targeted killings of militants and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadly-israel-gaza-escalation-rages-for-second-day-261866">shooting of Gaza border </a>protesters. There was no immediate confirmation of this from Israeli officials.

The worst surge in fighting around the Palestinian enclave was sparked on Tuesday when Israel killed Islamic Jihad's top Gaza field commander in an air strike, accusing him of masterminding a spree of recent attacks and planning more soon.

As Islamic Jihad fighters responded with hundreds of rocket launches that reached as far as Tel Aviv and paralysed parts of Israel, it pressed the aerial barrage on the Gaza Strip.

In his first public comments on the fighting, Islamic Jihad leader Zeyad al-Nakhala said a truce could be agreed immediately if Israel accepted the Iranian-backed faction's terms.

These included Israel ending targeted killings of militants, its sometimes lethal response to weekly Gaza protests and steps to ease its blockade on the coastal Palestinian enclave, al-Nakhala, who is based in Beirut, told Al-Mayadeen TV.

Israel signalled openness only to a quid-pro-quo restraint.

"Quiet will be answered with quiet," Israel's Army Radio quoted an unnamed Israeli government official as saying. "Islamic Jihad wants a ceasefire, and it is thus trying to create a false impression of achievements."

Hamas, in turn, has voiced solidarity with Islamic Jihad but has not claimed responsibility for any of the rocket launches. 
&nbsp;

Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad said an Egyptian-mediated truce with Israel was in force in the Gaza Strip as of 0330 GMT on Thursday, and a Reuters witness confirmed that fighting had subsided.

Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad said an Egyptian-mediated truce with Israel was in force in the Gaza Strip as of 0330 GMT on Thursday, and a Reuters witness confirmed that fighting had subsided. An Islamic Jihad official told Reuters that Israel had agreed to the faction's demand that it cease targeted killings of militants and shooting of Gaza border protesters. There was no immediate confirmation of this from Israeli officials. The worst surge in fighting around the Palestinian enclave was sparked on Tuesday when Israel killed Islamic Jihad's top Gaza field commander in an air strike, accusing him of masterminding a spree of recent attacks and planning more soon. As Islamic Jihad fighters responded with hundreds of rocket launches that reached as far as Tel Aviv and paralysed parts of Israel, it pressed the aerial barrage on the Gaza Strip. In his first public comments on the fighting, Islamic Jihad leader Zeyad al-Nakhala said a truce could be agreed immediately if Israel accepted the Iranian-backed faction's terms. These included Israel ending targeted killings of militants, its sometimes lethal response to weekly Gaza protests and steps to ease its blockade on the coastal Palestinian enclave, al-Nakhala, who is based in Beirut, told Al-Mayadeen TV. Israel signalled openness only to a quid-pro-quo restraint. "Quiet will be answered with quiet," Israel's Army Radio quoted an unnamed Israeli government official as saying. "Islamic Jihad wants a ceasefire, and it is thus trying to create a false impression of achievements." Hamas, in turn, has voiced solidarity with Islamic Jihad but has not claimed responsibility for any of the rocket launches.

Egypt-mediated truce with Israel in force in Gaza: Islamic Jihad

Palestinian militant group <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadly-israel-gaza-escalation-rages-for-second-day-261866">Islamic Jihad offered</a> terms on Wednesday for an Egyptian-mediated ceasefire with Israel, saying if these were not met it was prepared to keep up cross-border rocket attacks&nbsp;indefinitely despite a mounting Gaza death toll.

The worst surge in fighting around the Palestinian enclave was sparked on Tuesday when Israel killed Islamic Jihad's top Gaza field commander in an airstrike, accusing him of masterminding a spree of recent attacks and planning more soon.

As Islamic Jihad fighters responded with hundreds of rocket launches that reached as<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strikes-gaza-two-more-palestinians-killed-death-toll-rises-to-18-261808"> far as Tel Aviv and paralysed</a> parts of Israel, it pressed the aerial barrage on the Gaza Strip.

Medics say 26 Palestinians, including at least 14 gunmen and six civilians, have been killed. Dozens have been injured on both sides.

In his first public comments on the fighting, Islamic Jihad leader Zeyad al-Nakhala said a truce could be agreed immediately if Israel accepted the Iranian-backed faction's terms.

These included Israel ending targeted killings of militants, its sometimes lethal response to weekly Gaza protests and steps to ease its blockade on the coastal Palestinian enclave, al-Nakhala, who is based in Beirut, told Al-Mayadeen TV.

Al-Nakhala said he expected to hear Israel's response via Cairo within hours. Should a truce not be agreed, he said, "the (Islamic Jihad armed wing) Jerusalem Brigades is able to manage the battle, and for a long time".

Israel signalled openness only to a quid-pro-quo restraint.

"Quiet will be answered with quiet," Israel's Army Radio quoted an unnamed Israeli government official as saying. "Islamic Jihad wants a ceasefire, and it is thus trying to create a false impression of achievements."

Israel had previously said it sought no escalation in Gaza. Unlike with past rounds of fighting, when Israel held Gaza's dominant Hamas faction responsible for any cross-border attacks, this time Hamas has been spared Israeli retaliation.

Hamas, in turn, has voiced solidarity with Islamic Jihad but has not claimed responsibility for any of the rocket launches.

Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad offered terms on Wednesday for an Egyptian-mediated ceasefire with Israel, saying if these were not met it was prepared to keep up cross-border rocket attacks indefinitely despite a mounting Gaza death toll.

Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad offered terms on Wednesday for an Egyptian-mediated ceasefire with Israel, saying if these were not met it was prepared to keep up cross-border rocket attacks indefinitely despite a mounting Gaza death toll. The worst surge in fighting around the Palestinian enclave was sparked on Tuesday when Israel killed Islamic Jihad's top Gaza field commander in an airstrike, accusing him of masterminding a spree of recent attacks and planning more soon. As Islamic Jihad fighters responded with hundreds of rocket launches that reached as far as Tel Aviv and paralysed parts of Israel, it pressed the aerial barrage on the Gaza Strip. Medics say 26 Palestinians, including at least 14 gunmen and six civilians, have been killed. Dozens have been injured on both sides. In his first public comments on the fighting, Islamic Jihad leader Zeyad al-Nakhala said a truce could be agreed immediately if Israel accepted the Iranian-backed faction's terms. These included Israel ending targeted killings of militants, its sometimes lethal response to weekly Gaza protests and steps to ease its blockade on the coastal Palestinian enclave, al-Nakhala, who is based in Beirut, told Al-Mayadeen TV. Al-Nakhala said he expected to hear Israel's response via Cairo within hours. Should a truce not be agreed, he said, "the (Islamic Jihad armed wing) Jerusalem Brigades is able to manage the battle, and for a long time". Israel signalled openness only to a quid-pro-quo restraint. "Quiet will be answered with quiet," Israel's Army Radio quoted an unnamed Israeli government official as saying. "Islamic Jihad wants a ceasefire, and it is thus trying to create a false impression of achievements." Israel had previously said it sought no escalation in Gaza. Unlike with past rounds of fighting, when Israel held Gaza's dominant Hamas faction responsible for any cross-border attacks, this time Hamas has been spared Israeli retaliation. Hamas, in turn, has voiced solidarity with Islamic Jihad but has not claimed responsibility for any of the rocket launches.

Islamic Jihad offers Egypt-mediated ceasefire terms to Israel as death toll mounts