Israeli forces have killed around 40 Palestinian fighters and raided a militant compound and tunnel shafts during expanded operations in the southern Gaza Strip's Khan Younis.

Israel at War: Israeli military kills 40 militants in Gaza's Khan Younis

The West Bank city of Jenin is once again tensed as Israeli troops launched a fresh assault in the region. Armed vehicles were seen on the streets of Jenin with echoes of gunfire in the background.

Israel-Gaza War: Israeli forces launch fresh offensive in Jenin as West Bank violence surges

On October 7, the Israel-Hamas war started, writing another bloodied chapter in the century-old conflict between Israel and Palestine.&nbsp;

Hundreds of Hamas militants entered the border from Gaza, killing around 1,100 people, mostly civilians. They took back about 250 people as hostages with them.&nbsp;

The attack was the worst in Israel's history. The Hamas militant reportedly raped women, killed babies, showing a horrible side of the war.&nbsp;

The brutality shown by Hamas was condemned globally, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that he's "deeply shocked"&nbsp;

Taking to&nbsp;X, formerly Twitter, Modi said "our (India's) thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour".&nbsp;

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/2023-the-year-when-india-brighten-up-dark-side-of-the-moon-with-chandrayaan-3-672620">2023: The year when India lit up dark side of the Moon with Chandrayaan-3</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Netanyahu's pledge&nbsp;</h2>

After the Hamas attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to "destroy" Hamas. Calling it retaliatory action, he launched a relentless campaign of air strikes in Gaza followed by a ground offensive that reduced the territory's north to rubble.&nbsp;

The world saw some hope seven weeks into the war, when the two sides agreed to a week-long truce during which Hamas released 105 hostages, mostly women and children, and Israel freed 240 Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;

Israel then resumed its offensive, shifting its focus to southern Gaza, including areas previously declared "safe zones" as it said that it feared Hamas could regroup.&nbsp;

<h2>History of Israel&nbsp;</h2>

David Ben-Gurion, the head of the Jewish Agency, proclaimed the establishment of the State of Israel on May 14, 1948, which was recognised by then-US President Harry S Truman on the same day. The United Nations on November 29, 1947, voted to partition British Mandatory Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, but the move was rejected by the Arab states. Their conflict led to a war with Israel after its creation.&nbsp;

During the eight-month-long war, Israel expanded its territory allotted to it by the UN as more than 760,000 Palestinians fled. Jordan occupied the West Bank including east Jerusalem, while Egypt took the coastal Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

The nation was formally created in 1948, but its history can be traced back to early Iron Age I, or maybe before that.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-china-secretly-working-towards-next-nuclear-test-satellite-images-hint-at-development-672633">Is China secretly working towards next nuclear test? Satellite images hint at development</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What's the future?&nbsp;</h2>

An end to the ongoing war seems to be a distant dream, and it looks like&nbsp;it will keep West Asia on its edge for a longer period than expected.&nbsp;

A total of 129 hostages from the October 7 attacks remain in Gaza, according to Israeli authorities. Around 20 are believed to be dead.&nbsp;

Israel would want a safe return of all the hostages in order to discuss the resolution.&nbsp;

<h2>The war in numbers...so far&nbsp;</h2>

Hamas health authorities claimed on Friday (Dec 22) that a total of 20,057 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza because of Israeli airstrikes and more than 50,000 Palestinians have been injured. A total of 301 Palestinians were killed in the West Bank, Hamas said.&nbsp;

Latest data showed that around 250,000 Israelis have been displaced from the Gaza and Lebanon borders and more than 1.9 million Palestinians were displaced in Gaza, out of a population of 2.3 million.&nbsp;

(With inputs from&nbsp;agencies)&nbsp;

On October 7, the Israel-Hamas war started, writing another bloodied chapter in the century-old conflict between Israel and Palestine. Hundreds of Hamas militants entered the border from Gaza, killing around 1,100 people, mostly civilians.

On October 7, the Israel-Hamas war started, writing another bloodied chapter in the century-old conflict between Israel and Palestine. Hundreds of Hamas militants entered the border from Gaza, killing around 1,100 people, mostly civilians. They took back about 250 people as hostages with them. The attack was the worst in Israel's history. The Hamas militant reportedly raped women, killed babies, showing a horrible side of the war. The brutality shown by Hamas was condemned globally, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that he's "deeply shocked" Taking to X, formerly Twitter, Modi said "our (India's) thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour". Also read: 2023: The year when India lit up dark side of the Moon with Chandrayaan-3 Netanyahu's pledge After the Hamas attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to "destroy" Hamas. Calling it retaliatory action, he launched a relentless campaign of air strikes in Gaza followed by a ground offensive that reduced the territory's north to rubble. The world saw some hope seven weeks into the war, when the two sides agreed to a week-long truce during which Hamas released 105 hostages, mostly women and children, and Israel freed 240 Palestinian prisoners. Israel then resumed its offensive, shifting its focus to southern Gaza, including areas previously declared "safe zones" as it said that it feared Hamas could regroup. History of Israel David Ben-Gurion, the head of the Jewish Agency, proclaimed the establishment of the State of Israel on May 14, 1948, which was recognised by then-US President Harry S Truman on the same day. The United Nations on November 29, 1947, voted to partition British Mandatory Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, but the move was rejected by the Arab states. Their conflict led to a war with Israel after its creation. During the eight-month-long war, Israel expanded its territory allotted to it by the UN as more than 760,000 Palestinians fled. Jordan occupied the West Bank including east Jerusalem, while Egypt took the coastal Gaza Strip. The nation was formally created in 1948, but its history can be traced back to early Iron Age I, or maybe before that. Also read: Is China secretly working towards next nuclear test? Satellite images hint at development What's the future? An end to the ongoing war seems to be a distant dream, and it looks like it will keep West Asia on its edge for a longer period than expected. A total of 129 hostages from the October 7 attacks remain in Gaza, according to Israeli authorities. Around 20 are believed to be dead. Israel would want a safe return of all the hostages in order to discuss the resolution. The war in numbers...so far Hamas health authorities claimed on Friday (Dec 22) that a total of 20,057 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza because of Israeli airstrikes and more than 50,000 Palestinians have been injured. A total of 301 Palestinians were killed in the West Bank, Hamas said. Latest data showed that around 250,000 Israelis have been displaced from the Gaza and Lebanon borders and more than 1.9 million Palestinians were displaced in Gaza, out of a population of 2.3 million. (With inputs from agencies)

2023: The year wrote another bloodied chapter in Israel-Palestine conflict's history

In pics | Israel-Hamas war: Around 300 arrested after protesters storm US Capitol demanding ceasefire in Gaza

The Israel-Hamas war has become one of the biggest humanitarian crises of this era as the Palestinians who are living in the Gaza Strip are struggling for basic resources such as food and clean water, electricity, and medicines as Israeli forces continue their fight to finish Hamas terrorists after their barbaric attack in southern Israel.

The Israel-Hamas war has become one of the biggest humanitarian crises of this era as the Palestinians who are living in the Gaza Strip are struggling for basic resources such as food and clean water, electricity, and medicines as Israeli forces continue their fight to finish Hamas terrorists after their barbaric attack in southern Israel. The ongoing fighting between Israel and Hamas started in the first week of October after a surprise and unprecedented attack was launched by Hamas, but the war didn't happen overnight, it was building up over the years, keeping West Asia on the edge. What's the origin of conflict? The Partition Plan was agreed upon by the United Nations in 1947, which attempted to divide the British Mandate of Palestine into Arab and Jewish states. The State of Israel was established on May 14, 1948, igniting the first Arab-Israeli War. Although Israel won the war in 1949, 750,000 Palestinians were displaced, and the land was divided into three parts: the State of Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. Also read: Who funds Hamas? How terror group gets money and military equipment What are the core issues of the conflict? The main issues include a two-state solution, Israeli settlements, the status of Jerusalem, and refugees. First, let's discuss the two-state solution, which is an agreement that would create a state for the Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip alongside Israel. However, the concept of the two-state solution has been rejected by Hamas. Meanwhile, Israel wants the Palestinian state to be demilitarised, so that it isn't a threat to Israel. There are also issues with the Israeli settlements as some nations consider Jewish settlements built on land taken by Israel in 1967 to be illegal, but Israel disagrees. It says it has historical and Biblical links to the area. The continuation of its expansion is one of the most controversial problems between Israel and the Palestinians. Another burning issue, Palestinians want East Jerusalem, which includes sites sacred to Muslims, Jews and Christians, to be the capital of their state. But Israel says Jerusalem should remain its "indivisible and eternal" capital. Israel's claim to the eastern part of Jerusalem is not recognised internationally. Former US president Donald Trump recognised Jerusalem as Israel's capital, without specifying the extent of its jurisdiction in the disputed city, and moved the US embassy there in 2018. The issue of refugees is also crucial to understanding the Israeli-Palestine conflict as today about 5.6 million Palestinian refugees, the majority are descendants of those who fled in 1948, live in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank and Gaza. The Palestinian foreign ministry says that about half of registered refugees remain stateless, many living in crowded camps. Also read: What are white phosphorus bombs that Israel reportedly used in Gaza? Is it illegal? What's the future of peace attempts? There have been several attempts to establish peace between the two, and also in West Asia. Egypt and Israel signed a peace pact in 1979, putting an end to 30 years of hostility. In 1993, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Palestinian Authority Chairman Yasser Arafat signed the Oslo Accords on limited Palestinian autonomy. Israel and Jordan signed a peace pact in 1994. Then US president Bill Clinton, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and Arafat failed to reach a final peace deal with the Camp David summit of 2000. The summit took place between 11 and 25 July 2000 and was an effort to end the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, but ended without an agreement. In 2002, an Arab plan offered Israel normal ties with all Arab countries in return for a full withdrawal from the lands it took in the 1967 Middle East war, the creation of a Palestinian state and a "just solution" for Palestinian refugees. But the peace efforts have been stalled since 2014 when talks failed between Israelis and Palestinians in Washington. Palestinians also boycotted dealings with the Trump administration over their refusal to endorse the two-state solution. Watch: Hamas planned to target Israeli schools, 'kill as many people as possible,' says report × What's the future of peace attempts? With the latest outbreak of war, concerns have grown over the recent attempts by the US to break a deal as on the day Israel declared war, President Joe Biden made a strong statement in support of Israel. The October conflict threw the United States 2023 effort to help mediate a normalisation agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia into disarray. This war is also a diplomatic challenge for Riyadh as well as for other Arab states, including some Gulf Arab states next to Saudi Arabia, that have signed peace deals with Israel. Also read: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas Saudi Arabia has historically campaigned for the rights and safety of Israeli Arab Palestinians and a source told the news agency AFP on Oct 13 that Riyadh has suspended talks on potentially normalising ties with Israel amid raging war. The source familiar with the discussions told AFP that "Saudi Arabia has decided to pause discussion on possible normalisation and has informed US officials". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | What are core Israel-Palestine issues? What's the future of peace attempts?

Indian National Congress (INC) or Congress party has reiterated its support for Palestinians in a recent resolution passed on Monday (Oct 9) and called for an “immediate cease-fire” between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;

This comes a day after the political party said that it “condemns brutal attacks on the people of Israel” while also extending support for the “legitimate aspirations” of the Palestinian people.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, shortly after Hamas launched its surprise attack on Israel, expressed solidarity with Israel along with several Western countries and Ukraine.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the Congress resolution say?</h2>

The resolution passed by the Congress Working Committee (CWC), a copy of which was posted on Congress’ X account, expressed deep concern over the conflict going on between Israel and Hamas and urged a ceasefire while also affirming the party’s backing for the rights of the Palestinian people.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-historical-conflict-between-israel-palestine-amid-unprovoked-escalation-by-hamas-644471">Explained: Historical conflict between Israel-Palestine amid unprovoked escalation by Hamas</a>

“CWC expresses its dismay and anguish on the war that has broken out in the Middle East where over a thousand people have been killed in the last two days. The CWC reiterates its long-standing support for the rights of the Palestinian people to land, self-government and to live with dignity and respect,” the statement read.&nbsp;

It added, “The CWC calls for an immediate cease-fire and for negotiations to begin on all outstanding issues including the imperative issues that have given rise to the present conflict.”&nbsp;

The statement comes a day after Congress’ General Secretary in-charge of Communications Jairam Ramesh, said, “The Indian National Congress condemns the brutal attacks on the people of Israel.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-nc-congress-emerge-as-winners-in-ladakh-autonomous-hill-development-council-elections-644251">India: NC, Congress emerge as winners in Ladakh autonomous hill development council elections</a>

It added, “The Indian National Congress has always believed that the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people for a life of self-respect, equality and dignity must be fulfilled only through a process for dialogue and negotiations while ensuring the legitimate national security interests of the Israeli people.”&nbsp;

“Violence of any type never provides a solution and must,” said Ramesh.&nbsp;

<h2>PM Modi’s statement</h2>

Shortly after the attack on Israel, PM Modi took to X and said “Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/countries-condemn-hamas-surprise-attack-from-gaza-express-solidarity-with-israel-643706">Western countries condemn Hamas' surprise attack from Gaza, express solidarity with Israel</a> 
 
After witnessing the&nbsp;deadliest attack in decades, Israel has since declared itself in a state of war after Palestinian militants launched hundreds of rockets from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7).

As of Monday (Oct 9), hundreds of people have been killed in both Israel and Gaza and thousands of others have been injured.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Indian National Congress (INC) or Congress party has reiterated its support for Palestinians in a recent resolution passed on Monday (Oct 9) and called for an “immediate cease-fire” between Israel and Hamas.

Indian National Congress (INC) or Congress party has reiterated its support for Palestinians in a recent resolution passed on Monday (Oct 9) and called for an “immediate cease-fire” between Israel and Hamas. This comes a day after the political party said that it “condemns brutal attacks on the people of Israel” while also extending support for the “legitimate aspirations” of the Palestinian people. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, shortly after Hamas launched its surprise attack on Israel, expressed solidarity with Israel along with several Western countries and Ukraine. What did the Congress resolution say? The resolution passed by the Congress Working Committee (CWC), a copy of which was posted on Congress’ X account, expressed deep concern over the conflict going on between Israel and Hamas and urged a ceasefire while also affirming the party’s backing for the rights of the Palestinian people. ALSO READ | Explained: Historical conflict between Israel-Palestine amid unprovoked escalation by Hamas “CWC expresses its dismay and anguish on the war that has broken out in the Middle East where over a thousand people have been killed in the last two days. The CWC reiterates its long-standing support for the rights of the Palestinian people to land, self-government and to live with dignity and respect,” the statement read. It added, “The CWC calls for an immediate cease-fire and for negotiations to begin on all outstanding issues including the imperative issues that have given rise to the present conflict.” The statement comes a day after Congress’ General Secretary in-charge of Communications Jairam Ramesh, said, “The Indian National Congress condemns the brutal attacks on the people of Israel.” ALSO READ | India: NC, Congress emerge as winners in Ladakh autonomous hill development council elections It added, “The Indian National Congress has always believed that the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people for a life of self-respect, equality and dignity must be fulfilled only through a process for dialogue and negotiations while ensuring the legitimate national security interests of the Israeli people.” “Violence of any type never provides a solution and must,” said Ramesh. PM Modi’s statement Shortly after the attack on Israel, PM Modi took to X and said “Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour.” ALSO READ | Western countries condemn Hamas' surprise attack from Gaza, express solidarity with Israel After witnessing the deadliest attack in decades, Israel has since declared itself in a state of war after Palestinian militants launched hundreds of rockets from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7). As of Monday (Oct 9), hundreds of people have been killed in both Israel and Gaza and thousands of others have been injured. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India’s Congress party extends support for Palestinians after Hamas attack on Israel, calls for ceasefire

On Saturday (Oct 7), the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in the deaths of over 300 people and leaving thousands wounded.

On Saturday (Oct 7), the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in the deaths of over 300 people and leaving thousands wounded. Many Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv, have been attacked by hundreds of rockets launched by the Hamas. Israel-Palestine crisis: Check all the major updates here. The ongoing Hamas attack and military action by Israel has drawn reactions from global leaders, public figures, and celebrities. Israeli actress Gal Gadot, who is predominantly known for her work in Hollywood, is among the first few celebrities who have reacted to the ongoing situation. Actor Nushrratt Bharuccha stranded in Israel amid ongoing conflict On Saturday, Gadot posed screengrabs of a news article on the conflict. Sharing the screenshots, Gal wrote a caption in support of the innocent people of Israel, who are stuck in the deadly conflict. Gadot, who has served in the Israeli army, wrote in the caption, ''At least 250 Israeli have been murdered and dozens of women children and elders held as hostages in Gaza, by Palestinian military group Hamas.'' ''Starting early morning more than 3,000 rockets were fire. Hamas is holding hostages, controlling bases and settlements in Israel. There have been more than 1,500 injured and heavy fighting is still ongoing. I hear their voices and they are banging on the door. I am with my two little children. Praying for all of those in pain.'' What is Hamas, Palestinian group behind the surprise attack on Israel? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gal Gadot (@gal_gadot) × Later, the former Miss Israel posted the Star of David on her Instagram handle and wrote, ''I stand with Israel you should too. The world cannot sit on the fence when these horrific acts of terror are happening!'' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gal Gadot (@gal_gadot) × Later, Jewish actor Joshua Malina, best known for his work in Scandal and West Wing, commented on the horrific situation in Israel. Israel shielding skies with Iron Dome. What is it and how does it work? Sharing the screengrab of a news article on Hamas' attack on Israel, Joshua Malina wrote on X, ''Horrendous news to wake up to. Thinking of Israel.'' Horrendous news to wake up to. Thinking of Israel. pic.twitter.com/E4pEVFo83A — (((Jew))) (@JoshMalina) October 7, 2023 × Hollywood actress Jamie Lee Curtis extended her silent support to Israel. On her Instagram handle, Curtis posted an Israeli flag without any caption. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jamie Lee Curtis (@jamieleecurtis) × Reposting a post by Guy Oseary, comedian Amy Schumer wrote, ''Jewish people are the only group not allowed to defend themselves. This has nothing to do with the occupation. Hamas don’t want end to occupation. They want to eradicate Israel. They’re funded by Iran, who are trying to destroy the peace deal.'' View this post on Instagram A post shared by @amyschumer × Comedian Sarah Silverman expressed her concern for her sister, nieces, and other family members who are currently stuck in Israel. Silverman wrote on X, ''My sister and nieces and nephews are there. They’ve been protesting BIBI for months. Fight for a two state solution. Israelis are Jews and Arabs and all colors. There is so much complexity to this. But make NO MISTAKE Hamas is a terror organization who’s mission statement is kill all Jews. This f****ing world breaks my heart.'' My sister and nieces and nephews are there. They’ve been protesting BIBI for months. Fight for a two state solution. Israelis are Jews and Arabs and all colors. There is so much complexity to this. But make NO MISTAKE Hamas is a terror organization who’s mission statement is kill… https://t.co/RzfeXk13Vr — Sarah Silverman (@SarahKSilverman) October 7, 2023 × WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Stand with Israel: Gal Gadot, Jamie Lee Curtis and other celebrities react to Hamas attack

Palestinian military group Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel on Saturday (Oct 7) morning marking the deadliest day of violence in Israel since the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-killed-in-israel-and-gaza-after-hamas-launches-biggest-attack-in-decades-643830">Yom Kippur war 50 years ago</a> when Egyptian and Syrian forces launched an assault during the Jewish holiday in a bid to retrieve the territory Israel had taken during a brief conflict in 1967.

As of Sunday (Oct 8) evening, the death toll in Israel has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-palestine-crisis-live-unsc-to-meet-as-death-toll-climbs-to-over-300-643864">surpassed 600</a>, with more than 2,000 people injured, according to the Israeli health ministry. This comes a day after Hamas fighters infiltrated Israel by land, sea and air using paragliders following a barrage of rockets fired at Israel.&nbsp;

Here’s how the brazen attack on Israel unfolded:&nbsp;

6:35 am (local time): Sirens were sounded across Israel and heard as far as Tel Aviv and Beersheba after Hamas said that they fired over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel. However, the Israeli military said that 2,500 rockets were fired.&nbsp;

“We announce the start of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood and we announce that the first strike, which targeted enemy positions, airports, and military fortifications…” said Mohammed Deif, the supreme military commander of Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas.&nbsp;

7:40 am: The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirms that Hamas has entered southern Israel from Gaza. Israeli officials ask residents from multiple southern Israeli towns including Sderot, to stay safe in their homes.

A motorboat carrying fighters was seen heading to Zikim, an Israeli coastal town which also houses a military base, according to Al Jazeera. Hamas also released the image of a bulldozer tearing down a section of fence separating Israel and Gaza.&nbsp;

8:15 am: First sirens go off in Jerusalem, the disputed city which rarely gets hit because of Israel’s Iron Dome defence system.&nbsp;

8:23 am: Hamas claims to have taken hostages in southern Israel and fired another wave of rockets while Israel declares a state of war.&nbsp;

9:45 am: Blasts heard in Gaza and around 15 minutes later Israel’s military spokesperson said the air force was carrying out attacks in Gaza.

10:00 am: Israeli military confirms that Hamas fighters penetrated at least three military installations – border crossing Erez (as called by Israel), the Zikim base, and the Gaza division headquarters at Reim.

10:46 am: Israeli fighters begin strikes against targets in Gaza.&nbsp;

11:35 am: Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-at-war-and-we-will-win-it-says-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-as-hamas-launches-surprise-attack-643737">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> releases the first statement after the attack and tells the citizens that the country is “at war” and calls for unity.&nbsp;

Israel calls up reservists for retaliatory attacks and dubbed the operation “Swords of Iron”.

1:46 pm: The Israeli military said that it has struck 21 buildings that house Hamas military operations.

<h2>What else?</h2>

Over the course of the day, the death toll in both Israel and Gaza kept rising. The Israeli foreign ministry also accused Hamas fighters of going house-to-house and killing civilians.&nbsp;

It was also reported that many residents opened their doors thinking it was military personnel only to be met with Hamas fighters who either shot them or took them hostage.&nbsp;

Most western countries India and Ukraine condemned Hamas’ attack and expressed solidarity with Israel while “celebrations” and rallies were seen across countries like Iran, and others.&nbsp;

The United Nations Security Council has announced an urgent session scheduled for Sunday (Oct 8) in response to the recent violence in the Middle East.

Saturday evening: Israeli air attacks continued late Saturday night. The military reported 22 active locations inside the country where Israeli troops were still battling “hundreds” of Palestinian militants.&nbsp;

10:16 pm: Netanyahu addresses the nation and calls today’s events something “never before seen in Israel,” he vows to ensure “it will never happen again.” He also vowed to use “all the power” of the IDF to destroy Hamas’ capabilities.&nbsp;

Overnight: Sirens kept sounding across Israel while Hamas kept launching rockets and Israel continued airstrikes in Gaza.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Palestinian military group Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel on Saturday (Oct 7) morning marking the deadliest day of violence in Israel since the Yom Kippur war 50 years ago when Egyptian and Syrian forces launched an assault during the Jewish holiday in a bid to retrieve the territory Israel had taken during a brief conflict in 1967.

Palestinian military group Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel on Saturday (Oct 7) morning marking the deadliest day of violence in Israel since the Yom Kippur war 50 years ago when Egyptian and Syrian forces launched an assault during the Jewish holiday in a bid to retrieve the territory Israel had taken during a brief conflict in 1967. As of Sunday (Oct 8) evening, the death toll in Israel has surpassed 600, with more than 2,000 people injured, according to the Israeli health ministry. This comes a day after Hamas fighters infiltrated Israel by land, sea and air using paragliders following a barrage of rockets fired at Israel. Here’s how the brazen attack on Israel unfolded: 6:35 am (local time): Sirens were sounded across Israel and heard as far as Tel Aviv and Beersheba after Hamas said that they fired over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel. However, the Israeli military said that 2,500 rockets were fired. “We announce the start of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood and we announce that the first strike, which targeted enemy positions, airports, and military fortifications…” said Mohammed Deif, the supreme military commander of Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas. 7:40 am: The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirms that Hamas has entered southern Israel from Gaza. Israeli officials ask residents from multiple southern Israeli towns including Sderot, to stay safe in their homes. A motorboat carrying fighters was seen heading to Zikim, an Israeli coastal town which also houses a military base, according to Al Jazeera. Hamas also released the image of a bulldozer tearing down a section of fence separating Israel and Gaza. 8:15 am: First sirens go off in Jerusalem, the disputed city which rarely gets hit because of Israel’s Iron Dome defence system. 8:23 am: Hamas claims to have taken hostages in southern Israel and fired another wave of rockets while Israel declares a state of war. 9:45 am: Blasts heard in Gaza and around 15 minutes later Israel’s military spokesperson said the air force was carrying out attacks in Gaza. 10:00 am: Israeli military confirms that Hamas fighters penetrated at least three military installations – border crossing Erez (as called by Israel), the Zikim base, and the Gaza division headquarters at Reim. 10:46 am: Israeli fighters begin strikes against targets in Gaza. 11:35 am: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu releases the first statement after the attack and tells the citizens that the country is “at war” and calls for unity. Israel calls up reservists for retaliatory attacks and dubbed the operation “Swords of Iron”. 1:46 pm: The Israeli military said that it has struck 21 buildings that house Hamas military operations. What else? Over the course of the day, the death toll in both Israel and Gaza kept rising. The Israeli foreign ministry also accused Hamas fighters of going house-to-house and killing civilians. It was also reported that many residents opened their doors thinking it was military personnel only to be met with Hamas fighters who either shot them or took them hostage. Most western countries India and Ukraine condemned Hamas’ attack and expressed solidarity with Israel while “celebrations” and rallies were seen across countries like Iran, and others. The United Nations Security Council has announced an urgent session scheduled for Sunday (Oct 8) in response to the recent violence in the Middle East. Saturday evening: Israeli air attacks continued late Saturday night. The military reported 22 active locations inside the country where Israeli troops were still battling “hundreds” of Palestinian militants. 10:16 pm: Netanyahu addresses the nation and calls today’s events something “never before seen in Israel,” he vows to ensure “it will never happen again.” He also vowed to use “all the power” of the IDF to destroy Hamas’ capabilities. Overnight: Sirens kept sounding across Israel while Hamas kept launching rockets and Israel continued airstrikes in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel vs Hamas: How the violence unfolded after Palestinian militant group attacked Israel. A timeline

In pics | Israel witnesses deadliest day of violence in 50 years amid Hamas attack

Palestinian militants have started a “war” on Israel, said the country’s defence minister after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7).

This has led several, mostly Western countries, to condemn the attack by Hamas’ armed wing which said that it launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, marking the commencement of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-killed-in-israel-and-gaza-after-hamas-launches-biggest-attack-in-decades-643830">“Operation Al-Aqsa Flood.”</a> 
 
Countries like the United States and Italy have also ramped up security to protect the&nbsp;Jewish community in the country.

<h2>India</h2>

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X and said, "Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families."&nbsp;

He added, "We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour."&nbsp;

<h2>United States</h2>

The United States "unequivocally condemns" the "unprovoked attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israeli civilians," said&nbsp;White House National Security Council Spokesperson&nbsp;Adrienne Watson, on X.&nbsp;

She added, "We stand firmly with the Government and people of Israel and extend our condolences for the Israeli lives lost in these attacks."&nbsp; 
 
"Over the coming days the Department of Defense will work to ensure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself and protect civilians from indiscriminate violence and terrorism," US&nbsp;Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.&nbsp;

<h2>European Union</h2>

The European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen said that the 27-nation bloc “unequivocally” condemns “terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel” and called for an immediate stop to the violence, adding that “terrorism in its most contemptible form”. She added, “Israel has the right to defend itself against such odious attack.”&nbsp;

Similarly, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, said “This horrific violence must stop immediately. Terrorism and violence solve nothing. The EU expresses its solidarity with Israel in these difficult moments.”

European Council president Charles Michel also condemned the “indiscriminate attacks launched against Israel and its people…” He added, “My thoughts are with all the victims. EU stands in solidarity with Israeli people in this horrific moment.”&nbsp;

<h2>United Kingdom&nbsp;</h2>

Britain “unequivocally condemns” the surprise attack by Hamas, said Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, adding, “The UK will always support Israel’s right to defend itself.” UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took to X and said he was “shocked” by the attacks.&nbsp;

“Israel has an absolute right to defend itself. We’re in contact with Israeli authorities, and British nationals in Israel should follow travel advice,” Sunak added.&nbsp;

<h2>France</h2>

French President Emmanuel Macron said that he “strongly condemn” the “terrorist attacks against Israel”. He added, “I express my full solidarity with the victims, their families and loved ones.”&nbsp;

<h2>Germany&nbsp;</h2>

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Berlin “firmly condemns the terrorist attacks from Gaza against Israel”.&nbsp;

Palestinian militant group Hamas “contributes to the intensification of violence,” adding that “violence and rockets aimed at innocent people must stop immediately,” the German FM added, on social media. &nbsp;

She also said that Israel “has our full solidarity” and the “right, guaranteed by international law, to defend itself against terrorism.”&nbsp;

"Terrifying news reaches us today from Israel.&nbsp;We are deeply shocked by the rocket fire from Gaza and the escalating violence. Germany condemns these attacks by Hamas and stands by Israel," said German Chancellor Olaf&nbsp;Scholz.&nbsp;

<h2>Italy&nbsp;</h2>

The Italian government backs “Israel’s right to defend itself” against the “brutal attack” underway and “condemns in the strongest terms the terror and the violence underway against innocent civilians.”

The&nbsp;Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's office later released a statement which said that she&nbsp;chaired on the "dramatic situation unfolding in Israel which has been&nbsp;the target of a military and terrorist attack," adding that they are following the situation and "particular concern"&nbsp;is being paid to the security of the Jewish community in the country.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine&nbsp;</h2>

“Ukraine strongly condemns the ongoing terrorist attacks against Israel, including rocket attacks against the civilian population in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. We express our support for Israel in its right to defend itself and its people,” said the Ukrainian foreign ministry on social media.&nbsp;

In a statement on X, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said, "Horrible news from Israel. My condolences go out to everyone who lost relatives or close ones in the terrorist attack. We have faith that order will be restored and terrorists will be defeated."

"Israel's right to self-defense is unquestionable."&nbsp;He also urged all Ukrainian citizens who remain in the risk zone to "obey all orders issued by local security services and remain vigilant." 
 
The Ukrainian foreign ministry&nbsp;and&nbsp;embassy in Israel "are ready to assist in any situation," said Zelensky.&nbsp;

<h2>Canada&nbsp;</h2>

"Canada strongly condemns the current terrorist attacks against Israel. These acts of violence are completely unacceptable. We stand with Israel and fully support its right to defend itself. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this. Civilian life must be protected," said Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

<h2>Australia</h2>

"Australia stands with our friend in this time. We condemn this indiscriminate and abhorrent attacks by Hamas on Israel, its cities and civilians. We recognise Israel's right to defend itself."&nbsp;

<h2>Czech Republic</h2>

The Czech government condemned Hamas for launching “terrorist attacks” on Prague’s traditional ally Israel.&nbsp;

“My thoughts are with the innocent victims of the violence and I wish our friends in Israel the swiftest possible handling of the situation and the fulfilment of their ambitions to live in peace and security,” said Prime Minister Petr Fiala. &nbsp;

“The Czech Republic has always stood and will stand fully with Israel,” he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Poland</h2>

"I'm shocked by today's brutal attacks on Israel by Hamas. Rockets attacks and detention of civilians as hostages arouse our deepest opposition. Poland strongly condemns all acts of violence," said Polish President Andrezj Duda.

<h2>Russia&nbsp;</h2>

Russia urged restraint from all sides, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov told Russian news agency Interfax. “We are now in contact with everyone. With the Israelis, Palestinians, Arabs…we always call for restraint.”

<h2>Turkey&nbsp;</h2>

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan who strongly supports the Palestinian cause, urged Israel and Palestinians “to act reasonably” and avoid a further escalation. "We call for restraint from all parties," said&nbsp;Erdogan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Palestinian militants have started a “war” on Israel, said the country’s defence minister after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7).

Palestinian militants have started a “war” on Israel, said the country’s defence minister after hundreds of rockets were launched from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7). This has led several, mostly Western countries, to condemn the attack by Hamas’ armed wing which said that it launched over 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, marking the commencement of “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood.” Countries like the United States and Italy have also ramped up security to protect the Jewish community in the country. India The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X and said, "Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families." He added, "We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour." United States The United States "unequivocally condemns" the "unprovoked attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israeli civilians," said White House National Security Council Spokesperson Adrienne Watson, on X. She added, "We stand firmly with the Government and people of Israel and extend our condolences for the Israeli lives lost in these attacks." "Over the coming days the Department of Defense will work to ensure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself and protect civilians from indiscriminate violence and terrorism," US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. European Union The European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen said that the 27-nation bloc “unequivocally” condemns “terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel” and called for an immediate stop to the violence, adding that “terrorism in its most contemptible form”. She added, “Israel has the right to defend itself against such odious attack.” Similarly, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, said “This horrific violence must stop immediately. Terrorism and violence solve nothing. The EU expresses its solidarity with Israel in these difficult moments.” European Council president Charles Michel also condemned the “indiscriminate attacks launched against Israel and its people…” He added, “My thoughts are with all the victims. EU stands in solidarity with Israeli people in this horrific moment.” United Kingdom Britain “unequivocally condemns” the surprise attack by Hamas, said Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, adding, “The UK will always support Israel’s right to defend itself.” UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took to X and said he was “shocked” by the attacks. “Israel has an absolute right to defend itself. We’re in contact with Israeli authorities, and British nationals in Israel should follow travel advice,” Sunak added. France French President Emmanuel Macron said that he “strongly condemn” the “terrorist attacks against Israel”. He added, “I express my full solidarity with the victims, their families and loved ones.” Germany German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Berlin “firmly condemns the terrorist attacks from Gaza against Israel”. Palestinian militant group Hamas “contributes to the intensification of violence,” adding that “violence and rockets aimed at innocent people must stop immediately,” the German FM added, on social media. She also said that Israel “has our full solidarity” and the “right, guaranteed by international law, to defend itself against terrorism.” "Terrifying news reaches us today from Israel. We are deeply shocked by the rocket fire from Gaza and the escalating violence. Germany condemns these attacks by Hamas and stands by Israel," said German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Italy The Italian government backs “Israel’s right to defend itself” against the “brutal attack” underway and “condemns in the strongest terms the terror and the violence underway against innocent civilians.” The Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's office later released a statement which said that she chaired on the "dramatic situation unfolding in Israel which has been the target of a military and terrorist attack," adding that they are following the situation and "particular concern" is being paid to the security of the Jewish community in the country. Ukraine “Ukraine strongly condemns the ongoing terrorist attacks against Israel, including rocket attacks against the civilian population in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. We express our support for Israel in its right to defend itself and its people,” said the Ukrainian foreign ministry on social media. In a statement on X, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said, "Horrible news from Israel. My condolences go out to everyone who lost relatives or close ones in the terrorist attack. We have faith that order will be restored and terrorists will be defeated." "Israel's right to self-defense is unquestionable." He also urged all Ukrainian citizens who remain in the risk zone to "obey all orders issued by local security services and remain vigilant." The Ukrainian foreign ministry and embassy in Israel "are ready to assist in any situation," said Zelensky. Canada "Canada strongly condemns the current terrorist attacks against Israel. These acts of violence are completely unacceptable. We stand with Israel and fully support its right to defend itself. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this. Civilian life must be protected," said Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Australia "Australia stands with our friend in this time. We condemn this indiscriminate and abhorrent attacks by Hamas on Israel, its cities and civilians. We recognise Israel's right to defend itself." Czech Republic The Czech government condemned Hamas for launching “terrorist attacks” on Prague’s traditional ally Israel. “My thoughts are with the innocent victims of the violence and I wish our friends in Israel the swiftest possible handling of the situation and the fulfilment of their ambitions to live in peace and security,” said Prime Minister Petr Fiala. “The Czech Republic has always stood and will stand fully with Israel,” he added. Poland "I'm shocked by today's brutal attacks on Israel by Hamas. Rockets attacks and detention of civilians as hostages arouse our deepest opposition. Poland strongly condemns all acts of violence," said Polish President Andrezj Duda. Russia Russia urged restraint from all sides, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov told Russian news agency Interfax. “We are now in contact with everyone. With the Israelis, Palestinians, Arabs…we always call for restraint.” Turkey Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan who strongly supports the Palestinian cause, urged Israel and Palestinians “to act reasonably” and avoid a further escalation. "We call for restraint from all parties," said Erdogan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Western countries condemn Hamas' surprise attack from Gaza, express solidarity with Israel

The Israeli military on Monday (July 10) said that their forces shot an alleged Palestinian assailant who opened fire and threw a grenade at Israeli soldiers in the occupied West Bank. The Palestinian officials confirmed that the man had died.&nbsp;

<h2>Assailant hurled grenade, fired shots: Israeli military</h2>

In a statement, the Israeli military said that its soldiers had stopped a suspicious motorist on a West Bank road and stopped him for questioning. Subsequently, he exited the vehicle and “hurled a grenade, and fired shots at the soldiers”. It added, “The soldiers responded with live fire and neutralised the assailant.”&nbsp;

According to the Israeli military, the incident took place near Deir Nidham village, northwest of Ramallah in the West Bank.

<h2>Palestinian authorities identify man who died</h2>

The Palestinian health ministry later confirmed the death of 33-year-old Bilal Qadah, “near the village of Deir Nidham,” without any further details. According to the Palestinian news outlet Wafa, Qadah lived in the village of Shuqba near Ramallah and was married with three children.

Meanwhile, the leftist Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine praised the 33-year-old as a “heroic martyr” and said that he had delivered a message of defiance to the occupying army, according to local media reports.

A report by Al Jazeera citing Ma’an news agency said that the Israeli forces did not allow Red Crescent ambulances to reach Qadah after he was shot and no assistance was reportedly given to him as he lay bleeding on the ground.&nbsp;

<h2>Rise of violence in West Bank</h2>

The recent incident also follows a week of violence after Israel conducted its biggest military raid in 20 years in the occupied West Bank’s Jenin which resulted in the death of 12 people including at least five Palestinian fighters, as well as one Israeli soldier.&nbsp;

Israel claimed that the two-day operation, which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-is-completing-mission-in-west-bank-says-pm-netanyahu-death-toll-in-jenin-rises-to-11-611977">reportedly</a> ended on July 5, was conducted after the Jenin camp had become a hotbed of terrorism, which has claimed the lives of several Israeli citizens over the past 18 months.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/car-ramming-and-stabbing-attack-in-tel-aviv-612008">Tel Aviv</a> witnessed a car ramming attack when a Palestinian rammed a pickup truck into pedestrians and went on a stabbing rampage and wounded at least&nbsp;eight people. The attack was later claimed by the Hamas militant group as a retaliation for the Jenin raid.&nbsp;

On Friday, Israeli forces killed two Palestinian militants after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-bank-raid-israel-army-kills-two-palestinian-gunmen-613082">firefight erupted</a> during a raid on the occupied West Bank of Nablus. The Palestinian health ministry later reported the deaths of “two martyrs and three injured as a result of the occupation (Israeli) aggression on Nablus.”&nbsp;

According to the data compiled by news agency AFP from official sources from both sides, this year, at least 195 Palestinians, 27 Israelis, one Ukrainian and one Italian have been killed.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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The Israeli military on Monday (July 10) said that their forces shot an alleged Palestinian assailant who opened fire and threw a grenade at Israeli soldiers in the occupied West Bank.

The Israeli military on Monday (July 10) said that their forces shot an alleged Palestinian assailant who opened fire and threw a grenade at Israeli soldiers in the occupied West Bank. The Palestinian officials confirmed that the man had died. Assailant hurled grenade, fired shots: Israeli military In a statement, the Israeli military said that its soldiers had stopped a suspicious motorist on a West Bank road and stopped him for questioning. Subsequently, he exited the vehicle and “hurled a grenade, and fired shots at the soldiers”. It added, “The soldiers responded with live fire and neutralised the assailant.” According to the Israeli military, the incident took place near Deir Nidham village, northwest of Ramallah in the West Bank. Palestinian authorities identify man who died The Palestinian health ministry later confirmed the death of 33-year-old Bilal Qadah, “near the village of Deir Nidham,” without any further details. According to the Palestinian news outlet Wafa, Qadah lived in the village of Shuqba near Ramallah and was married with three children. Meanwhile, the leftist Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine praised the 33-year-old as a “heroic martyr” and said that he had delivered a message of defiance to the occupying army, according to local media reports. A report by Al Jazeera citing Ma’an news agency said that the Israeli forces did not allow Red Crescent ambulances to reach Qadah after he was shot and no assistance was reportedly given to him as he lay bleeding on the ground. Rise of violence in West Bank The recent incident also follows a week of violence after Israel conducted its biggest military raid in 20 years in the occupied West Bank’s Jenin which resulted in the death of 12 people including at least five Palestinian fighters, as well as one Israeli soldier. Israel claimed that the two-day operation, which reportedly ended on July 5, was conducted after the Jenin camp had become a hotbed of terrorism, which has claimed the lives of several Israeli citizens over the past 18 months. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, Tel Aviv witnessed a car ramming attack when a Palestinian rammed a pickup truck into pedestrians and went on a stabbing rampage and wounded at least eight people. The attack was later claimed by the Hamas militant group as a retaliation for the Jenin raid. On Friday, Israeli forces killed two Palestinian militants after a firefight erupted during a raid on the occupied West Bank of Nablus. The Palestinian health ministry later reported the deaths of “two martyrs and three injured as a result of the occupation (Israeli) aggression on Nablus.” According to the data compiled by news agency AFP from official sources from both sides, this year, at least 195 Palestinians, 27 Israelis, one Ukrainian and one Italian have been killed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Palestinian who opened fire, threw grenade at Israeli forces, shot dead

According to officials, at least five Israelis have been wounded after a suspected shooting attack in the northern West Bank, on Tuesday (June 13). It was later reported that&nbsp;four of the five injured were military personnel.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Israeli forces are searching for the suspect in the Palestinian town of Ya’abad which is close to the scene of the attack, said the Palestinian media reports. The&nbsp;Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also said search in the area is underway and that they are blocking off a number of roads near the village.

<h2>What do we know about the supposed attack?</h2>

The incident is said to have taken place near Mevo Dotan in the northern West Bank where the suspected shooter fired at a man in his 30s and moderately wounded him. The attacker then&nbsp;went on to drive further down the road and began shooting at a military vehicle, as per Israeli media reports, citing officials.

The injured civilian managed to drive to the Reihan Crossing and received initial treatment there before being transferred to Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, reported The Jerusalem Post. Meanwhile, the four wounded soldiers were also treated at the scene before one of them was transported to Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer and the others to Hillel Yaffe Medical Center.&nbsp; 
 
The&nbsp;Hillel Yaffe Medical Center&nbsp;in Hadera later said it was treating four Israelis wounded after the attack and one was&nbsp;listed in moderate condition, and the other three are listed in good condition. Meanwhile, a&nbsp;fifth victim was taken by helicopter to Rambam Hospital who was also reported to be in&nbsp;moderate condition by the Israeli medics.&nbsp;

“This difficult incident, with many casualties, took place at an intersection adjacent to the intersection where Meir Tamari was murdered about two weeks ago,” said Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan after the attack. The shooting referred to by the regional head was of 32-year-old Meir Tamari who was allegedly shot dead by Palestinians outside the settlement of Hermesh.

<h2>Israeli soldier shoots Palestinian after confrontation at checkpoint in West Bank&nbsp;</h2>

The reported drive-by shooting also took place days after a Palestinian driver was shot dead at an Israeli army checkpoint near Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, as per the Palestinian officials. Meanwhile, the Israeli military has described it as a confrontation between the man and one of their soldiers.

According to the Israeli military, the man later identified by the Palestinian health ministry as 29-year-old Mahdi Biadsa, arrived in a stolen vehicle at the Rantis checkpoint. The statement added, that while inspecting the vehicle the driver assaulted one of the soldiers and tried to snatch his weapon which led the soldier to fatally shoot him.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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According to officials, at least five Israelis have been wounded after a suspected shooting attack in the northern West Bank, on Tuesday (June 13). It was later reported that four of the five injured were military personnel.

According to officials, at least five Israelis have been wounded after a suspected shooting attack in the northern West Bank, on Tuesday (June 13). It was later reported that four of the five injured were military personnel. Meanwhile, the Israeli forces are searching for the suspect in the Palestinian town of Ya’abad which is close to the scene of the attack, said the Palestinian media reports. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also said search in the area is underway and that they are blocking off a number of roads near the village. What do we know about the supposed attack? The incident is said to have taken place near Mevo Dotan in the northern West Bank where the suspected shooter fired at a man in his 30s and moderately wounded him. The attacker then went on to drive further down the road and began shooting at a military vehicle, as per Israeli media reports, citing officials. The injured civilian managed to drive to the Reihan Crossing and received initial treatment there before being transferred to Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, reported The Jerusalem Post. Meanwhile, the four wounded soldiers were also treated at the scene before one of them was transported to Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer and the others to Hillel Yaffe Medical Center. The Hillel Yaffe Medical Center in Hadera later said it was treating four Israelis wounded after the attack and one was listed in moderate condition, and the other three are listed in good condition. Meanwhile, a fifth victim was taken by helicopter to Rambam Hospital who was also reported to be in moderate condition by the Israeli medics. “This difficult incident, with many casualties, took place at an intersection adjacent to the intersection where Meir Tamari was murdered about two weeks ago,” said Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan after the attack. The shooting referred to by the regional head was of 32-year-old Meir Tamari who was allegedly shot dead by Palestinians outside the settlement of Hermesh. Israeli soldier shoots Palestinian after confrontation at checkpoint in West Bank The reported drive-by shooting also took place days after a Palestinian driver was shot dead at an Israeli army checkpoint near Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, as per the Palestinian officials. Meanwhile, the Israeli military has described it as a confrontation between the man and one of their soldiers. According to the Israeli military, the man later identified by the Palestinian health ministry as 29-year-old Mahdi Biadsa, arrived in a stolen vehicle at the Rantis checkpoint. The statement added, that while inspecting the vehicle the driver assaulted one of the soldiers and tried to snatch his weapon which led the soldier to fatally shoot him. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least four Israeli soldiers, one civilian injured after shooting incident in West Bank

Israeli forces have overnight killed three Palestinian fighters in the occupied West Bank. The operation has been described by Israel as a mission to capture terrorist suspects. However, Palestine has branded the killings a "veritable massacre". The men were killed in the Balata refugee camp in Nablus.

A statement by the Palestinian health ministry has identified the three men killed as 32-year-old Muhammad Abu Zaytoun, 30-year-old Fathi Abu Rizk, and 24-year-old Abdullah Abu Hamdan.

The latest deaths, as per AFP, come just over a week into a fragile Gaza ceasefire after a five-day cross-border conflict between Israel and the Islamic Jihad militant group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-thousands-of-israelis-participate-in-contentious-flag-march-in-jerusalem-rattles-palestinians-593867">In pics | Thousands of Israelis participate in contentious 'flag march' in Jerusalem, rattles Palestinians</a>

According to the Israeli army, a gun battle erupted during its "counterterrorism" operation and in that several fighters were shot.

In a statement, it said that during the operation to apprehend terrorists, "armed suspects fired at the soldiers, who responded with live fire," and that "hits were identified."&nbsp;

The statement added that the Israeli army has also apprehended "three wanted individuals suspected of involvement in terrorist activity". In addition, weapons and ammunition were also seized.

However, the Palestinian presidency spokesperson Nabil Abu Redeineh described the killings as a "veritable massacre". He also said that the repeated Israeli raids and attacks by settlers added up to "a major war crime and a collective punishment."

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-says-israeli-forces-killed-teen-in-west-bank-raid-587779" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-says-israeli-forces-killed-teen-in-west-bank-raid-587779&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj5iaXr6Yj_AhVQcWwGHa0wAdQ4ChAWegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2mQXbiTVDJtj2ohwBRc96r" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-says-israeli-forces-killed-teen-in-west-bank-raid-587779" target="_blank">Palestine&nbsp;says Israeli forces killed teen in West Bank raid</a>

Redeineh further claimed that US "silence" over these attacks has actually emboldened the Israelis towards escalating them. He called on Washington to "immediately intervene to stop the Israeli madness that will drag the region toward explosion".

Quoting witnesses, AFP reports that Israeli forces carried out raids on several houses in the camp. Gunfire and loud explosions were heard and reportedly a house was also demolished.

As per the Israeli Army it had "located in one of the residences an explosives manufacturing site". The house was detonated, reports AFP.

Another scuffle was reported in an operation in Jenin, where as per the Israeli army, suspects hurled explosive devices at the forces. The forces "responded with live fire", two hits were identified.

The forces have arrested three suspects from Jenin, whine another seven were arrested from West Bank.

As per an AFP tally, since the start of the year, at least 153 Palestinians, 20 Israelis, a Ukrainian and an Italian have been killed in the conflict between Israel-Palestine. This tally is based on data from official sources from both sides.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israeli forces have overnight killed three Palestinian fighters in the occupied West Bank. The operation has been described by Israel as a mission to capture terrorist suspects.

Israeli forces have overnight killed three Palestinian fighters in the occupied West Bank. The operation has been described by Israel as a mission to capture terrorist suspects. However, Palestine has branded the killings a "veritable massacre". The men were killed in the Balata refugee camp in Nablus. A statement by the Palestinian health ministry has identified the three men killed as 32-year-old Muhammad Abu Zaytoun, 30-year-old Fathi Abu Rizk, and 24-year-old Abdullah Abu Hamdan. The latest deaths, as per AFP, come just over a week into a fragile Gaza ceasefire after a five-day cross-border conflict between Israel and the Islamic Jihad militant group. Also read | In pics | Thousands of Israelis participate in contentious 'flag march' in Jerusalem, rattles Palestinians According to the Israeli army, a gun battle erupted during its "counterterrorism" operation and in that several fighters were shot. In a statement, it said that during the operation to apprehend terrorists, "armed suspects fired at the soldiers, who responded with live fire," and that "hits were identified." The statement added that the Israeli army has also apprehended "three wanted individuals suspected of involvement in terrorist activity". In addition, weapons and ammunition were also seized. However, the Palestinian presidency spokesperson Nabil Abu Redeineh described the killings as a "veritable massacre". He also said that the repeated Israeli raids and attacks by settlers added up to "a major war crime and a collective punishment." Also read | Palestine says Israeli forces killed teen in West Bank raid Redeineh further claimed that US "silence" over these attacks has actually emboldened the Israelis towards escalating them. He called on Washington to "immediately intervene to stop the Israeli madness that will drag the region toward explosion". Quoting witnesses, AFP reports that Israeli forces carried out raids on several houses in the camp. Gunfire and loud explosions were heard and reportedly a house was also demolished. As per the Israeli Army it had "located in one of the residences an explosives manufacturing site". The house was detonated, reports AFP. Another scuffle was reported in an operation in Jenin, where as per the Israeli army, suspects hurled explosive devices at the forces. The forces "responded with live fire", two hits were identified. The forces have arrested three suspects from Jenin, whine another seven were arrested from West Bank. As per an AFP tally, since the start of the year, at least 153 Palestinians, 20 Israelis, a Ukrainian and an Italian have been killed in the conflict between Israel-Palestine. This tally is based on data from official sources from both sides. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Palestine says Israel 'emboldened' by US silence as raid in West Bank kills three Palestinian fighters

Israel's army and Gaza militants traded heavy cross-border fire Wednesday, with 22 Palestinians killed over two days amid the worst escalation of violence to hit the coastal territory in months.

Israel hits targets in Gaza, militants fire at Tel Aviv

Israel hit Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza for the second day on Wednesday. As per the Israeli military, a late-night bombing in southern Gaza killed Ali Ghali, the head of Islamic Jihad's rocket launching force, and two other militants. The Israeli military said it hit more than 130 targets, including rocket-launching sites. In retaliation, Palestinian fighters also launched hundreds rockets against Israel in retaliations. Rockets launched by Palestinians set off sirens across Israel and in the capital Tel Aviv.

Israeli missile strikes continue across Gaza border, Islamic Jihadists retaliate over 100 rockets

Israel launched air strikes early Tuesday (May 9) against the militant group Islamic Jihad in Gaza, killing 12 people. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the Israeli army said it targeted&nbsp;three leaders of Islamic Jihad and hit&nbsp;&nbsp;"weapon manufacturing sites" belonging to the group.&nbsp;The militant group confirmed three senior officials were killed, naming them in a statement as Jihad Ghannam, secretary of the Al-Quds Brigades military council, and Khalil al-Bahtini,&nbsp;also of the council and commander of the military wing in northern&nbsp;Gaza.

The third official, Tareq Ezzedine, was described by Islamic Jihad as "one of the heads of military action" in the occupied West Bank who operated from&nbsp;Gaza, AFP reported.&nbsp;

According to a report by Al Jazeera, witnesses said&nbsp;an explosion hit the top floor of an apartment building in Gaza and a house in the southern city of Rafah.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/45-year-old-islamic-jihad-member-khader-adnan-dies-is-israeli-custody-588164">45-year-old Islamic Jihad member Khader Adnan dies is Israeli custody</a> 
 
Palestinian officials, as per Reuters, confirmed that the Israeli military&nbsp;killed three senior Islamic Jihad commanders in Gaza.

The Israeli army, meanwhile, also instructed its citizens&nbsp;within 40 kilometres of Gaza to enter bomb shelters and following a "situational assessment" they are to remain there until Wednesday. This comes as previous strikes&nbsp;on the Islamic Jihad&nbsp;group&nbsp;have sparked barrages of rockets on Israeli civilians&nbsp;which can go on for days, reported the Israeli media.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-30-rockets-fired-from-gaza-after-palestinian-hunger-striker-dies-in-israeli-custody-588319">Nearly 40 rockets fired from Gaza after Palestinian hunger striker dies in Israeli custody; Israel retaliates</a> 
 
In line with the IDF's&nbsp;warning, schools near Gaza and surrounding areas were asked to be cancelled.&nbsp;COGAT, a unit in the Israeli defence ministry that coordinates civilian affairs with the Palestinians, said two crossings with Gaza were closed for entry and exit of people and goods until further notice, reported Reuters.&nbsp; 
 
Previous attacks 
 
This comes days after dozens of&nbsp;projectiles were fired from Gaza Strip at southern Israel&nbsp;after an Islamic Jihad leader and&nbsp;Palestinian hunger striker, Khader Adnan, died in Israeli custody following an 87-day hunger strike. The incident had not only sparked protests but also several rockets were launched from Gaza.&nbsp;

It was not until hours later that the IDF&nbsp;conducted air strikes in response to the volley of rockets launched at Israel and said&nbsp;it targeted the Hamas training camp and several other sites belonging to the group.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Israel launched air strikes early Tuesday (May 9) against the militant group Islamic Jihad in Gaza, killing 12 people. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the Israeli army said it targeted three leaders of Islamic Jihad and hit "weapon manufacturing sites" belonging to the group.

Israel launched air strikes early Tuesday (May 9) against the militant group Islamic Jihad in Gaza, killing 12 people. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the Israeli army said it targeted three leaders of Islamic Jihad and hit "weapon manufacturing sites" belonging to the group. The militant group confirmed three senior officials were killed, naming them in a statement as Jihad Ghannam, secretary of the Al-Quds Brigades military council, and Khalil al-Bahtini, also of the council and commander of the military wing in northern Gaza. The third official, Tareq Ezzedine, was described by Islamic Jihad as "one of the heads of military action" in the occupied West Bank who operated from Gaza, AFP reported. According to a report by Al Jazeera, witnesses said an explosion hit the top floor of an apartment building in Gaza and a house in the southern city of Rafah. ALSO WATCH | 45-year-old Islamic Jihad member Khader Adnan dies is Israeli custody Palestinian officials, as per Reuters, confirmed that the Israeli military killed three senior Islamic Jihad commanders in Gaza. The Israeli army, meanwhile, also instructed its citizens within 40 kilometres of Gaza to enter bomb shelters and following a "situational assessment" they are to remain there until Wednesday. This comes as previous strikes on the Islamic Jihad group have sparked barrages of rockets on Israeli civilians which can go on for days, reported the Israeli media. ALSO READ | Nearly 40 rockets fired from Gaza after Palestinian hunger striker dies in Israeli custody; Israel retaliates In line with the IDF's warning, schools near Gaza and surrounding areas were asked to be cancelled. COGAT, a unit in the Israeli defence ministry that coordinates civilian affairs with the Palestinians, said two crossings with Gaza were closed for entry and exit of people and goods until further notice, reported Reuters. Previous attacks This comes days after dozens of projectiles were fired from Gaza Strip at southern Israel after an Islamic Jihad leader and Palestinian hunger striker, Khader Adnan, died in Israeli custody following an 87-day hunger strike. The incident had not only sparked protests but also several rockets were launched from Gaza. It was not until hours later that the IDF conducted air strikes in response to the volley of rockets launched at Israel and said it targeted the Hamas training camp and several other sites belonging to the group. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Twelve people, including top militants killed after Israeli jets hit targets in Gaza

The Israel and Palestine unrest on Monday claimed two more lives. As per Reuters, a Palestinian teen was killed in the West Bank during a military raid. The other casualty of the unrest was a 48-year-old woman&nbsp;—&nbsp;mother of two Israeli sisters who were killed last week when a suspected Palestinian gunman attacked the car they were in.

According to the Palestinian health ministry 15-year-old, Mohammad Balhan died from gunshot wounds. The teenager sustained gunshot wounds to his head, chest and abdomen during an Israeli raid near the occupied West Bank city of Jericho.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mother-of-two-israeli-sisters-killed-in-west-bank-shooting-dies-581075">Mother of two Israeli sisters killed in West Bank shooting dies</a>

According to Reuters, the Israeli military in a statement said that its forces had gone to the Aqabat Jabr refugee camp, next to Jericho, on a&nbsp;mission&nbsp;to apprehend Palestinians suspected to be involved in attacks against Israelis. The suspects reportedly opened fire and threw explosives during the raid, and the forces retaliated with live fire, hitting some of the suspects, but none of the soldiers were hurt.

According to the Palestinian Prisoners Association, the Israeli military arrested at least two people in the raid.

Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh called on the international community to make Israel answerable for its crimes.

"We urge the world to hold this (Israeli) government accountable for its crimes," he said at the start of the weekly government session.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahus-likud-party-likely-to-lose-more-than-a-third-of-its-seats-predicts-poll-581065">Netanyahu’s Likud party likely to lose more than a third of its seats, predicts poll</a>

48-year-old Lucy Dee, whose two daughters Maia and Rina Dee, 20 and 15, were killed on Friday, succumbed to her injuries as per hospital staff.&nbsp;

The latest casualties come as a poll by Channel 13 showed plummeting support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's party amid a divisive plan to rein in the Supreme Court's powers. It showed that if elections were held now, the party could lose more than a third of its seats and that Netanyahu, his hard-right coalition partners, would fail to gain a majority.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Israel and Palestine unrest on Monday claimed two more lives. As per Reuters, a Palestinian teen was killed in the West Bank during a military raid. The other casualty of the unrest was a 48-year-old woman — mother of two Israeli sisters who were killed last week when a suspected Palestinian gunman attacked the car they were in.

The Israel and Palestine unrest on Monday claimed two more lives. As per Reuters, a Palestinian teen was killed in the West Bank during a military raid. The other casualty of the unrest was a 48-year-old woman — mother of two Israeli sisters who were killed last week when a suspected Palestinian gunman attacked the car they were in. According to the Palestinian health ministry 15-year-old, Mohammad Balhan died from gunshot wounds. The teenager sustained gunshot wounds to his head, chest and abdomen during an Israeli raid near the occupied West Bank city of Jericho. Also read | Mother of two Israeli sisters killed in West Bank shooting dies According to Reuters, the Israeli military in a statement said that its forces had gone to the Aqabat Jabr refugee camp, next to Jericho, on a mission to apprehend Palestinians suspected to be involved in attacks against Israelis. The suspects reportedly opened fire and threw explosives during the raid, and the forces retaliated with live fire, hitting some of the suspects, but none of the soldiers were hurt. According to the Palestinian Prisoners Association, the Israeli military arrested at least two people in the raid. Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh called on the international community to make Israel answerable for its crimes. "We urge the world to hold this (Israeli) government accountable for its crimes," he said at the start of the weekly government session. Also read | Netanyahu’s Likud party likely to lose more than a third of its seats, predicts poll 48-year-old Lucy Dee, whose two daughters Maia and Rina Dee, 20 and 15, were killed on Friday, succumbed to her injuries as per hospital staff. The latest casualties come as a poll by Channel 13 showed plummeting support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's party amid a divisive plan to rein in the Supreme Court's powers. It showed that if elections were held now, the party could lose more than a third of its seats and that Netanyahu, his hard-right coalition partners, would fail to gain a majority. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Palestine unrest claims two more lives; teenager and mother of two become the latest casualties

An Israeli man was injured in a suspected terror attack in the West Bank town of Huwara on Sunday (March 19), as per local media reports. The Israeli ambulance service Magen David Adom said a man in his 30s was seriously wounded in the shooting attack. This comes as the Israeli and Palestinian officials met in Egypt for talks, on Sunday, to prevent the surging violence from further escalating during the Muslim holy month of Ramzan&nbsp;which begins next week.&nbsp;

Suspected terror attack in Huwara

According to Magen David Adom, the two people found at the scene&nbsp;were&nbsp;a man and a woman in their 30s. The woman, later identified as his wife, was taken to a hospital for treatment of traumatic shock, while the man was in critical condition.

“We met up with the vehicle at the Einebus junction along with IDF medical personnel. We provided medical treatment to a man in his 30s who was seriously injured by a gunshot to his upper body and to a woman who fainted from anxiety,” said senior Magen David Adom medic, Moshe Meir Shimon, who was also present at the scene of the incident, reported the Jerusalem Post.&nbsp;

“We quickly transferred them to ambulances and evacuated them to the hospital, as the man was in serious condition,” Shimon added. The identity of the victims has not been revealed. Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that it received a report of a “shooting incident” in Huwara and that it has launched a manhunt for the suspected terrorist, as per local media reports.&nbsp;

According to initial reports on the incident, at least 20 bullets were fired at the car. The Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikvah, which is treating the victim said that he was sedated and on a ventilator with gunshot wounds to his head and shoulder but is since in a stable condition, reported the Times of Israel.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took to Twitter and said he was praying for the “wounded hero” who succeeded in shooting the terrorist attacker supposedly confirming some media reports which said that the man who was shot managed to shoot back at the terrorist and injured him. Later the&nbsp;Israeli army confirmed&nbsp;that&nbsp;either soldiers or the victim shot the suspected Palestinian gunman who was the arrested by the&nbsp;Israeli forces.&nbsp;

Israeli and Palestinian officials meeting in Egypt

On Sunday, the officials from the two countries met in the resort city of Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt. In a statement,&nbsp;Egypt’s foreign ministry said that the meeting “aims to support dialogue between the Palestinian and Israeli sides to work to stop unilateral actions and escalation, and break the existing cycle of violence and achieve calm”, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

It added, that a reduction in violence could create a climate for the “resumption of the peace process”. The move has also been backed by the United States and Jordan. The meeting comes weeks after talks in the Jordanian coastal city of Aqaba brokered by the US has&nbsp;seemingly failed&nbsp;to stop the violence despite the two sides vowing to de-escalate.&nbsp;

Recently, the Israeli-occupied West Bank has witnessed a surge in violence with increased military raids by the Israeli army and a settler rampage in the area last month amid a rise in attacks by Palestinians. There have been some clashes between Israeli police and Palestinians particularly near the al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem around&nbsp;Ramzan which also coincides with the Jewish holiday, Passover and Christian Easter.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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An Israeli man was injured in a suspected terror attack in the West Bank town of Huwara on Sunday (March 19), as per local media reports. The Israeli ambulance service Magen David Adom said a man in his 30s was seriously wounded in the shooting attack.

An Israeli man was injured in a suspected terror attack in the West Bank town of Huwara on Sunday (March 19), as per local media reports. The Israeli ambulance service Magen David Adom said a man in his 30s was seriously wounded in the shooting attack. This comes as the Israeli and Palestinian officials met in Egypt for talks, on Sunday, to prevent the surging violence from further escalating during the Muslim holy month of Ramzan which begins next week. Suspected terror attack in Huwara According to Magen David Adom, the two people found at the scene were a man and a woman in their 30s. The woman, later identified as his wife, was taken to a hospital for treatment of traumatic shock, while the man was in critical condition. “We met up with the vehicle at the Einebus junction along with IDF medical personnel. We provided medical treatment to a man in his 30s who was seriously injured by a gunshot to his upper body and to a woman who fainted from anxiety,” said senior Magen David Adom medic, Moshe Meir Shimon, who was also present at the scene of the incident, reported the Jerusalem Post. “We quickly transferred them to ambulances and evacuated them to the hospital, as the man was in serious condition,” Shimon added. The identity of the victims has not been revealed. Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that it received a report of a “shooting incident” in Huwara and that it has launched a manhunt for the suspected terrorist, as per local media reports. According to initial reports on the incident, at least 20 bullets were fired at the car. The Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikvah, which is treating the victim said that he was sedated and on a ventilator with gunshot wounds to his head and shoulder but is since in a stable condition, reported the Times of Israel. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took to Twitter and said he was praying for the “wounded hero” who succeeded in shooting the terrorist attacker supposedly confirming some media reports which said that the man who was shot managed to shoot back at the terrorist and injured him. Later the Israeli army confirmed that either soldiers or the victim shot the suspected Palestinian gunman who was the arrested by the Israeli forces. Israeli and Palestinian officials meeting in Egypt On Sunday, the officials from the two countries met in the resort city of Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt. In a statement, Egypt’s foreign ministry said that the meeting “aims to support dialogue between the Palestinian and Israeli sides to work to stop unilateral actions and escalation, and break the existing cycle of violence and achieve calm”, reported Reuters. It added, that a reduction in violence could create a climate for the “resumption of the peace process”. The move has also been backed by the United States and Jordan. The meeting comes weeks after talks in the Jordanian coastal city of Aqaba brokered by the US has seemingly failed to stop the violence despite the two sides vowing to de-escalate. Recently, the Israeli-occupied West Bank has witnessed a surge in violence with increased military raids by the Israeli army and a settler rampage in the area last month amid a rise in attacks by Palestinians. There have been some clashes between Israeli police and Palestinians particularly near the al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem around Ramzan which also coincides with the Jewish holiday, Passover and Christian Easter. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israeli man injured in West Bank shooting attack; officials meet in Egypt to prevent violence ahead of Ramzan

Israel deployed hundreds of troops to the West Bank, on Monday (February 27) after a deadly and unprecedented rampage by settlers. This comes a day after two Israeli civilians were killed in a suspected terror attack in the northern West Bank town of Huwara, near Nablus. Subsequently, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged people to remain calm while lawmakers from his right-wing government have praised what is being described as a rampage. Amid the violence, Palestinian officials claimed that one man was killed after being shot.&nbsp;

Violence in West Bank

According to media reports, Israeli settlers in the West Bank set fire to cars and buildings starting late Sunday. The rampage began hours after two Israeli brothers, named as brothers Hillel Yaniv (21) and Yagel Yaniv (19) were allegedly shot by a Palestinian gunman, earlier that day.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-israelis-shot-dead-by-palestinian-gunman-in-west-bank-in-suspected-terror-attack-566121">Two Israelis shot dead in West Bank in 'Palestinian terror attack', says government</a>

After the shooting, groups of settlers took to the streets of the town in the West Bank for hours setting fire to homes, storefronts, and cars, as per local media reports. The violence also led to the death of a 37-year-old Palestinian who was shot and killed while two others also sustained injuries after they were shot at by Israeli fire, said the Palestinian health officials, on late Sunday.&nbsp;

According to Palestinian media, more than 100 people were injured after the violence near Nablus and at least 30 houses and vehicles were burned. While the health officials also said some 95 Palestinians were being treated for tear gas inhalation.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-settlers-attack-palestinian-properties-after-terror-attack-566232">Israeli settlers attack Palestinian properties after 'terror attack'</a>

On other hand, Israeli security forces also failed to contain the violence hours after they were warned about the upcoming planned protest, reported local media. While the manhunt for the Palestinian gunman who attacked the two Israeli brothers, early Sunday, was hindered due to the riots, said the Israeli security forces. Notably, this was one of the worst incidents of violence witnessed in the region in decades.&nbsp;

Israel’s response&nbsp;

Since the riots, there has been a range of responses from the Netanyahu government as well as the security forces. The Israeli PM has urged the settlers “not to take the law into their own hands” and appealed for calm. He added, “I ask that the (military) and the security forces be allowed to carry out their work.” Similarly, President Isaac Herzog, condemning the attack, also said that violence against innocent people “is not our way”.&nbsp;

On the other hand, a lawmaker from Netanyahu’s ruling coalition and chairman of the Knesset’s (Israeli parliament) National Security Committee, Zvika Fogel in an interview with Galey Israel Radio said, “Yesterday, a terrorist came from Huwara. A closed, burnt Huwara — that’s what I want to see”. He added, "That’s the only way to achieve deterrence. After a murder like yesterday’s, we need burning villages when the (Israel Defense Forces) IDF doesn’t act”, as per Times of Israel.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jordan-to-host-political-security-meet-between-israel-palestine-tomorrow-565914">Jordan to host political security meet between Israel &amp; Palestine tomorrow</a>

The IDF on late Sunday said, “violent riots that erupted at a number of locations” in the West Bank were “being dealt with”, while the Border Police reportedly used tear gas to disperse the settlers.&nbsp;

At the scene of the shooting and subsequent riots, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant said Israel “cannot allow a situation in which citizens take the law into their hands…I ask everyone to heed the law and especially to trust in the army and security forces”. The Israeli police spokesman Dean Elsdunne said eight Israelis were detained in connection with Sunday’s violence out of which six have been released.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/deadly-violence-grips-west-bank-again-after-gunman-kills-two-israelis-566412">Deadly violence grips West Bank again after gunman kills two Israelis</a>

Meanwhile, a military spokesperson described the situation as “a tense quiet,” and said that the army deployed hundreds of additional troops in the area to de-escalate the situation. He added, two battalions were sent late Sunday and a third on Monday which consist of several hundred soldiers each, reported the Associated Press.&nbsp;

What has Palestine said about this violence?

The Palestinian Presidency, in a statement, condemned the attack on Huwara and called it a “terrorist act carried out by Israeli settlers” and accused the Israeli occupation forces of protecting the rioters.&nbsp;

It added, “This terrorism and whoever stands behind it aims to destroy and thwart the international efforts exerted to try to get out of the current crisis”. Additionally, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said he held the Israeli government fully responsible for the attacks.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-fires-six-missiles-after-israel-launches-one-of-the-deadliest-military-raids-in-west-bank-564978">Palestine fires six missiles after Israel launches one of the 'deadliest' military raids in West Bank</a>

There has been a rise in tensions between Israel and Palestine in recent months. So far, Israeli forces have killed 65 Palestinians, including 13 children and injured hundreds of others, which has made the first two months of this year the deadliest for Palestinians. In the same period, 11 Israeli citizens, including three children, one Ukrainian civilian, and a police officer were killed, said a report by the news agency AFP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Israel deployed hundreds of troops to the West Bank, on Monday (February 27) after a deadly and unprecedented rampage by settlers. This comes a day after two Israeli civilians were killed in a suspected terror attack in the northern West Bank town of Huwara, near Nablus.

Israel deployed hundreds of troops to the West Bank, on Monday (February 27) after a deadly and unprecedented rampage by settlers. This comes a day after two Israeli civilians were killed in a suspected terror attack in the northern West Bank town of Huwara, near Nablus. Subsequently, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged people to remain calm while lawmakers from his right-wing government have praised what is being described as a rampage. Amid the violence, Palestinian officials claimed that one man was killed after being shot. Violence in West Bank According to media reports, Israeli settlers in the West Bank set fire to cars and buildings starting late Sunday. The rampage began hours after two Israeli brothers, named as brothers Hillel Yaniv (21) and Yagel Yaniv (19) were allegedly shot by a Palestinian gunman, earlier that day. ALSO READ | Two Israelis shot dead in West Bank in 'Palestinian terror attack', says government After the shooting, groups of settlers took to the streets of the town in the West Bank for hours setting fire to homes, storefronts, and cars, as per local media reports. The violence also led to the death of a 37-year-old Palestinian who was shot and killed while two others also sustained injuries after they were shot at by Israeli fire, said the Palestinian health officials, on late Sunday. According to Palestinian media, more than 100 people were injured after the violence near Nablus and at least 30 houses and vehicles were burned. While the health officials also said some 95 Palestinians were being treated for tear gas inhalation. ALSO WATCH | Israeli settlers attack Palestinian properties after 'terror attack' On other hand, Israeli security forces also failed to contain the violence hours after they were warned about the upcoming planned protest, reported local media. While the manhunt for the Palestinian gunman who attacked the two Israeli brothers, early Sunday, was hindered due to the riots, said the Israeli security forces. Notably, this was one of the worst incidents of violence witnessed in the region in decades. Israel’s response Since the riots, there has been a range of responses from the Netanyahu government as well as the security forces. The Israeli PM has urged the settlers “not to take the law into their own hands” and appealed for calm. He added, “I ask that the (military) and the security forces be allowed to carry out their work.” Similarly, President Isaac Herzog, condemning the attack, also said that violence against innocent people “is not our way”. On the other hand, a lawmaker from Netanyahu’s ruling coalition and chairman of the Knesset’s (Israeli parliament) National Security Committee, Zvika Fogel in an interview with Galey Israel Radio said, “Yesterday, a terrorist came from Huwara. A closed, burnt Huwara — that’s what I want to see”. He added, "That’s the only way to achieve deterrence. After a murder like yesterday’s, we need burning villages when the (Israel Defense Forces) IDF doesn’t act”, as per Times of Israel. ALSO READ | Jordan to host political security meet between Israel & Palestine tomorrow The IDF on late Sunday said, “violent riots that erupted at a number of locations” in the West Bank were “being dealt with”, while the Border Police reportedly used tear gas to disperse the settlers. At the scene of the shooting and subsequent riots, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant said Israel “cannot allow a situation in which citizens take the law into their hands…I ask everyone to heed the law and especially to trust in the army and security forces”. The Israeli police spokesman Dean Elsdunne said eight Israelis were detained in connection with Sunday’s violence out of which six have been released. ALSO WATCH | Deadly violence grips West Bank again after gunman kills two Israelis Meanwhile, a military spokesperson described the situation as “a tense quiet,” and said that the army deployed hundreds of additional troops in the area to de-escalate the situation. He added, two battalions were sent late Sunday and a third on Monday which consist of several hundred soldiers each, reported the Associated Press. What has Palestine said about this violence? The Palestinian Presidency, in a statement, condemned the attack on Huwara and called it a “terrorist act carried out by Israeli settlers” and accused the Israeli occupation forces of protecting the rioters. It added, “This terrorism and whoever stands behind it aims to destroy and thwart the international efforts exerted to try to get out of the current crisis”. Additionally, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said he held the Israeli government fully responsible for the attacks. ALSO READ | Palestine fires six missiles after Israel launches one of the 'deadliest' military raids in West Bank There has been a rise in tensions between Israel and Palestine in recent months. So far, Israeli forces have killed 65 Palestinians, including 13 children and injured hundreds of others, which has made the first two months of this year the deadliest for Palestinians. In the same period, 11 Israeli citizens, including three children, one Ukrainian civilian, and a police officer were killed, said a report by the news agency AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hundreds of Israeli troops sent to West Bank after settler riots; Palestinians claim one killed amid violence

Two Israeli civilians were killed in a suspected terror attack, on Sunday (February 26) in the northern West Bank town of Huwara, near Nablus, as per local media reports citing officials. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), a Palestinian gunman opened fire at an Israeli-owned car and fled the scene. Subsequently, the two victims were taken to the hospital where they later passed away.&nbsp;

A joint statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir confirmed that two Israeli civilians were killed in a “Palestinian terror attack”. The Shomron Regional Council, which administers Israeli settlements in the northern West Bank, said those killed in the Sunday attack were Jewish, reported AFP.&nbsp;Netanyahu also took to Twitter and wrote, "On behalf of all the citizens of Israel, I would like to send my condolences from the bottom of my heart to the Yaniv family of Mahar Bracha for the murder of Hillel Menachem Weigal-Yaakov. May them rest in peace."&nbsp;

He added, "We are working against terrorism by all means - in operational operations, in thwarting terrorist attacks, in passing a law to deport families of terrorists and today in a law on the death penalty for terrorists. Our answer to terrorism is to strike terror hard and strengthen our grip on our country."

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The “terrorist arrived to the Einbus junction and opened fire towards an Israeli vehicle,” the IDF had said after the attack. An initial probe into the incident suggests that the gunman took advantage of a traffic jam to carry out the attack which took place on a highway. The IDF said victims were rushed to the hospital while they pursued the attacker.

Subsequently, officials from Israel’s medical agency Magen David Adom (MDA) and West Bank settler leader Yossi Dagan confirmed that the victims had died. The medical officials had initially said they were treating two men in their 20s who were critically injured and taken to the hospital in a helicopter. The victims were later identified as two Israeli brothers, named as brothers Hillel Yaniv (21) and Yagel Yaniv (19) who are reportedly residents of the West Bank settlement of Har Bracha, as per Times of Israel.&nbsp;

The footage of the attack showed the victims’ car riddled with bullets while the military personnel found at least 12 nine-millimetre shell casings which indicate that the gunman was using a handgun or makeshift submachine gun, as per local media reports. The IDF has also closed parts of the surrounding area where the attack took place as the manhunt for the gunmen is underway.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Two Israeli civilians were killed in a suspected terror attack, on Sunday (February 26) in the northern West Bank town of Huwara, near Nablus, as per local media reports citing officials.

Two Israeli civilians were killed in a suspected terror attack, on Sunday (February 26) in the northern West Bank town of Huwara, near Nablus, as per local media reports citing officials. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), a Palestinian gunman opened fire at an Israeli-owned car and fled the scene. Subsequently, the two victims were taken to the hospital where they later passed away. A joint statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir confirmed that two Israeli civilians were killed in a “Palestinian terror attack”. The Shomron Regional Council, which administers Israeli settlements in the northern West Bank, said those killed in the Sunday attack were Jewish, reported AFP. Netanyahu also took to Twitter and wrote, "On behalf of all the citizens of Israel, I would like to send my condolences from the bottom of my heart to the Yaniv family of Mahar Bracha for the murder of Hillel Menachem Weigal-Yaakov. May them rest in peace." He added, "We are working against terrorism by all means - in operational operations, in thwarting terrorist attacks, in passing a law to deport families of terrorists and today in a law on the death penalty for terrorists. Our answer to terrorism is to strike terror hard and strengthen our grip on our country." בשם כל אזרחי ישראל אני מבקש לשלוח תנחומים מעומק ליבי למשפחת יניב מהר ברכה על רציחתם של הלל מנחם ויגל-יעקב זכרונם לברכה. יהי זכרם ברוך. pic.twitter.com/lVuhe2qgQB — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) February 26, 2023 × The “terrorist arrived to the Einbus junction and opened fire towards an Israeli vehicle,” the IDF had said after the attack. An initial probe into the incident suggests that the gunman took advantage of a traffic jam to carry out the attack which took place on a highway. The IDF said victims were rushed to the hospital while they pursued the attacker. Subsequently, officials from Israel’s medical agency Magen David Adom (MDA) and West Bank settler leader Yossi Dagan confirmed that the victims had died. The medical officials had initially said they were treating two men in their 20s who were critically injured and taken to the hospital in a helicopter. The victims were later identified as two Israeli brothers, named as brothers Hillel Yaniv (21) and Yagel Yaniv (19) who are reportedly residents of the West Bank settlement of Har Bracha, as per Times of Israel. The footage of the attack showed the victims’ car riddled with bullets while the military personnel found at least 12 nine-millimetre shell casings which indicate that the gunman was using a handgun or makeshift submachine gun, as per local media reports. The IDF has also closed parts of the surrounding area where the attack took place as the manhunt for the gunmen is underway. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Two Israelis shot dead in West Bank in 'Palestinian terror attack', says government

Israel-Palestine tensions have again flared up. Israel has raided a major West Bank area. At least 10 Palestinians have been killed. Watch this video for more details.

Israel-Palestine tensions: Israel raids major West Bank area

In the wake of what may be&nbsp;one of the deadliest attacks in East Jerusalem&nbsp;carried out by a Palestinian in years, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Saturday (January 28), promised “a strong, swift and precise response” ahead of a meeting with his government’s security cabinet. One of the attacks involved a shooting outside of a synagogue in East Jerusalem, on Friday, which killed at least seven people and injured three others. In a separate incident on Saturday, at least two people were injured following another shooting in the city, this time by a teen Palestinian.&nbsp;

“We are not seeking an escalation, but we are prepared for any scenario,” said Netanyahu ahead of the meeting on Saturday. Subsequently, Israel’s security cabinet announced measures which include revoking certain rights of “terrorist families” and decided to make it easier for civilians to obtain permits allowing them to carry firearms.&nbsp;

What do we know about the attacks in East Jerusalem?

The first attack took place late Friday (January 27) in East Jerusalem and has been described by the Israeli police as “a terrorist incident,” which led to the killing of seven people and wounding of three others before the perpetrator was shot dead by the police. Israeli police commissioner Yaakov Shabtai said the shooting was “one of the worst attacks we have encountered in recent years”, reported AFP.&nbsp;

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It took place near a synagogue in the settlement neighbourhood of Neve Yaacov, in East Jerusalem where worshippers gathered for the Sabbath on International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The attacker was later identified as Khaire Alkam, a 21-year-old Palestinian resident of East Jerusalem who arrived at 8:15 pm (local time) outside the synagogue, said the police.&nbsp;

“The terrorist shot at everyone he encountered. He got out of the car and began a murderous rampage with a handgun,”&nbsp;said Shabtai, as per Times of Israel. According to the Israeli police, the gunman fled in a car after opening fire and was chased. Subsequently, after an exchange of fire, the attacker was “neutralised”, said the police.&nbsp;

According to a report by Reuters, the gunman was a relative of a 17-year-old Palestinian who was shot dead on Wednesday during clashes with Israeli forces in West Bank, said the gunman’s family. “He is neither the first nor the last young man to get martyred and what he did is a source of pride,”&nbsp;said the 21-year-old’s father Moussa Alkam who claims that he did not have prior knowledge about his son seeking revenge, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/east-jerusalem-attack-seven-killed-3-injured-as-a-gunman-opens-fire-outside-synagogue-556840">East Jerusalem Attack: Seven killed, 3 injured as a gunman opens fire outside synagogue</a> 
 
The next day (January 28), another attack occurred where a 13-year-old Palestinian boy shot and wounded a 47-year-old Israeli man and his son, 23, in Silwan, East Jerusalem, reported AFP. Israel's Magen David Adom emergency response service in a video posted on Twitter said they were informed about the attack around 10:42 am (local time) and upon arrival they found two injured people lying down with “gunshot wounds to their upper body”.&nbsp;

As per local media reports citing the Israeli police, the shooter, a 13-year-old Palestinian boy was “neutralised and injured”. Additionally, an Israeli police spokesman Dean Elsdunne told The Associated Press that the attacker “waited to ambush civilians on the holy Sabbath day,” adding that the teenager opened fire on a group of five civilians.&nbsp;

The wounded teenager was later taken to the hospital, said the officials, he was also reportedly identified as an East Jerusalem resident and was suspected of having a terrorist motive. So far, no group has claimed responsibility for either of these attacks.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/nine-killed-20-injured-amid-israeli-troops-west-bank-raid-say-palestinians-556313">Nine killed, 20 injured amid Israeli troops' West Bank raid, say Palestinians</a> 
 
What happened in West Bank and Gaza?

The East Jerusalem attacks came days after Israeli forces conducted a raid in West Bank on Thursday (January 26) where, according to Palestinian officials, seven gunmen and two civilians were killed in what may be the deadliest day on the territory in two decades. Furthermore, at least 20 others had been injured following a live ammunition raid on the Jenin refugee camp where Israeli troops surrounded buildings and clashed with Palestinian militants, as per reports. &nbsp;

There was also an exchange of fire between Tel Aviv and the Gaza Strip on Friday which Israel later said that it “targeted an underground rocket manufacturing site” belonging to Hamas and a north Gaza military base used by the group. &nbsp;

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A report by AFP citing security sources in Hamas Islamist-controlled Gaza said there had been 15 strikes targeting militant sites and no injuries were reported. Meanwhile, the Israeli army said two rockets were fired from Gaza towards Israel around midnight, which triggered sirens in Israeli communities near the border. These attacks continued for several hours while no group claimed responsibility for firing the rockets.

How has Israel responded to the attacks?

After the synagogue attack on Friday, the Israeli police have made dozens of arrests while the military has said they will send more forces to West Bank. Meanwhile,&nbsp;Israeli officers on Sunday (January 29) sealed off the&nbsp;Palestinian gunman's&nbsp;Jerusalem family home, said the police. This also comes after&nbsp;Netanyahu said the Israeli&nbsp;government would pursue sanctions against the families of assailants following the security cabinet meeting late Saturday.&nbsp;

“The police arrested 42 suspects for questioning, some of them from the terrorist’s family,” said the Israeli police. Furthermore, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that after a “situational assessment,” it has decided to “reinforce the Judea and Samaria (West Bank) division with an additional battalion”.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jerusalem-shooting-21-yo-shooter-shot-dead-by-police-israel-pm-netanyahu-vows-swift-action-556925">Jerusalem shooting: 21-YO shooter shot dead by police; Israel PM Netanyahu vows 'swift action'</a>

In light of the recent attacks, the Israeli security cabinet convened on Saturday (January 28) and subsequently announced measures which include revoking certain rights of “terrorist families”, as per AFP. Additionally, the cabinet also moved to revoke the rights to social security of “the families of terrorists that support terrorism”.&nbsp;

Furthermore, they have decided to increase gun permits for licensed civilians to defend against street attacks, a move which National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir prior to the meeting had said he would push for. “When civilians have guns, they can defend themselves”, said Ben-Gvir to the press outside a Jerusalem hospital on Saturday, reported AFP.&nbsp;

International condemnation&nbsp;

The attack drew international condemnation from several countries including the United States, United Arab Emirates, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Ukraine, and so on. Additionally, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the attack was “particularly abhorrent” as it occurred at a place of worship and on International Holocaust Remembrance Day.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secy-of-state-antony-blinken-headed-to-egypt-will-visit-jerusalem-ramallah-556930">US Secy of State Antony Blinken headed to Egypt, will visit Jerusalem &amp; Ramallah</a>

Furthermore, among the seven killed during Friday’s attack was a Ukrainian woman, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky while expressing solidarity with Israel.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia which has no formal ties with Israel warned against “further escalation” and said the country “condemns all targeting of civilians.”&nbsp;

On the other hand,&nbsp;Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has still not remarked on Friday's attack and&nbsp;blamed Israel for the spiralling violence, on Saturday.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In the wake of what may be one of the deadliest attacks in East Jerusalem carried out by a Palestinian in years, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Saturday (January 28), promised “a strong, swift and precise response” ahead of a meeting with his government’s security cabinet.

In the wake of what may be one of the deadliest attacks in East Jerusalem carried out by a Palestinian in years, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Saturday (January 28), promised “a strong, swift and precise response” ahead of a meeting with his government’s security cabinet. One of the attacks involved a shooting outside of a synagogue in East Jerusalem, on Friday, which killed at least seven people and injured three others. In a separate incident on Saturday, at least two people were injured following another shooting in the city, this time by a teen Palestinian. “We are not seeking an escalation, but we are prepared for any scenario,” said Netanyahu ahead of the meeting on Saturday. Subsequently, Israel’s security cabinet announced measures which include revoking certain rights of “terrorist families” and decided to make it easier for civilians to obtain permits allowing them to carry firearms. What do we know about the attacks in East Jerusalem? The first attack took place late Friday (January 27) in East Jerusalem and has been described by the Israeli police as “a terrorist incident,” which led to the killing of seven people and wounding of three others before the perpetrator was shot dead by the police. Israeli police commissioner Yaakov Shabtai said the shooting was “one of the worst attacks we have encountered in recent years”, reported AFP. ALSO READ | Israel retaliates with air strikes on Gaza following overnight firing of rockets It took place near a synagogue in the settlement neighbourhood of Neve Yaacov, in East Jerusalem where worshippers gathered for the Sabbath on International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The attacker was later identified as Khaire Alkam, a 21-year-old Palestinian resident of East Jerusalem who arrived at 8:15 pm (local time) outside the synagogue, said the police. “The terrorist shot at everyone he encountered. He got out of the car and began a murderous rampage with a handgun,” said Shabtai, as per Times of Israel. According to the Israeli police, the gunman fled in a car after opening fire and was chased. Subsequently, after an exchange of fire, the attacker was “neutralised”, said the police. According to a report by Reuters, the gunman was a relative of a 17-year-old Palestinian who was shot dead on Wednesday during clashes with Israeli forces in West Bank, said the gunman’s family. “He is neither the first nor the last young man to get martyred and what he did is a source of pride,” said the 21-year-old’s father Moussa Alkam who claims that he did not have prior knowledge about his son seeking revenge, reported Reuters. ALSO WATCH | East Jerusalem Attack: Seven killed, 3 injured as a gunman opens fire outside synagogue The next day (January 28), another attack occurred where a 13-year-old Palestinian boy shot and wounded a 47-year-old Israeli man and his son, 23, in Silwan, East Jerusalem, reported AFP. Israel's Magen David Adom emergency response service in a video posted on Twitter said they were informed about the attack around 10:42 am (local time) and upon arrival they found two injured people lying down with “gunshot wounds to their upper body”. As per local media reports citing the Israeli police, the shooter, a 13-year-old Palestinian boy was “neutralised and injured”. Additionally, an Israeli police spokesman Dean Elsdunne told The Associated Press that the attacker “waited to ambush civilians on the holy Sabbath day,” adding that the teenager opened fire on a group of five civilians. The wounded teenager was later taken to the hospital, said the officials, he was also reportedly identified as an East Jerusalem resident and was suspected of having a terrorist motive. So far, no group has claimed responsibility for either of these attacks. ALSO READ | Nine killed, 20 injured amid Israeli troops' West Bank raid, say Palestinians What happened in West Bank and Gaza? The East Jerusalem attacks came days after Israeli forces conducted a raid in West Bank on Thursday (January 26) where, according to Palestinian officials, seven gunmen and two civilians were killed in what may be the deadliest day on the territory in two decades. Furthermore, at least 20 others had been injured following a live ammunition raid on the Jenin refugee camp where Israeli troops surrounded buildings and clashed with Palestinian militants, as per reports. There was also an exchange of fire between Tel Aviv and the Gaza Strip on Friday which Israel later said that it “targeted an underground rocket manufacturing site” belonging to Hamas and a north Gaza military base used by the group. ALSO WATCH | U.S.' Blinken to visit Israel and West Bank as tension spikes A report by AFP citing security sources in Hamas Islamist-controlled Gaza said there had been 15 strikes targeting militant sites and no injuries were reported. Meanwhile, the Israeli army said two rockets were fired from Gaza towards Israel around midnight, which triggered sirens in Israeli communities near the border. These attacks continued for several hours while no group claimed responsibility for firing the rockets. How has Israel responded to the attacks? After the synagogue attack on Friday, the Israeli police have made dozens of arrests while the military has said they will send more forces to West Bank. Meanwhile, Israeli officers on Sunday (January 29) sealed off the Palestinian gunman's Jerusalem family home, said the police. This also comes after Netanyahu said the Israeli government would pursue sanctions against the families of assailants following the security cabinet meeting late Saturday. “The police arrested 42 suspects for questioning, some of them from the terrorist’s family,” said the Israeli police. Furthermore, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that after a “situational assessment,” it has decided to “reinforce the Judea and Samaria (West Bank) division with an additional battalion”. ALSO WATCH | Jerusalem shooting: 21-YO shooter shot dead by police; Israel PM Netanyahu vows 'swift action' In light of the recent attacks, the Israeli security cabinet convened on Saturday (January 28) and subsequently announced measures which include revoking certain rights of “terrorist families”, as per AFP. Additionally, the cabinet also moved to revoke the rights to social security of “the families of terrorists that support terrorism”. Furthermore, they have decided to increase gun permits for licensed civilians to defend against street attacks, a move which National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir prior to the meeting had said he would push for. “When civilians have guns, they can defend themselves”, said Ben-Gvir to the press outside a Jerusalem hospital on Saturday, reported AFP. International condemnation The attack drew international condemnation from several countries including the United States, United Arab Emirates, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Ukraine, and so on. Additionally, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the attack was “particularly abhorrent” as it occurred at a place of worship and on International Holocaust Remembrance Day. ALSO WATCH | US Secy of State Antony Blinken headed to Egypt, will visit Jerusalem & Ramallah Furthermore, among the seven killed during Friday’s attack was a Ukrainian woman, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky while expressing solidarity with Israel. Saudi Arabia which has no formal ties with Israel warned against “further escalation” and said the country “condemns all targeting of civilians.” On the other hand, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has still not remarked on Friday's attack and blamed Israel for the spiralling violence, on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli PM Netanyahu vows response to East Jerusalem attacks; govt announces new measures: What we know so far

Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, on Tuesday, visited the disputed holy site in Jerusalem, Al-Aqsa mosque, triggering widespread condemnation from several countries across the Arab world with the move being seen as a “deliberate provocation” by the Palestinians.&nbsp;

This comes after many had expressed concerns over the newly elected government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his right-wing allies, particularly over their relations with Palestine moving forward.&nbsp;

Notably, Ben-Gvir has visited the compound even before as a member of the Knesset (Israeli parliament) and has sought to change the long-standing status quo of the sacred site. Prior to his visit on Tuesday, the Palestinian group, Hamas senior officials, had warned the incumbent national security minister of Israel that the move would cross a “red line”.&nbsp;

Why is Al-Aqsa important?

The holy site is of religious significance to Jews, Muslims, as well as Christians. However, situated in the Israeli-controlled East Jerusalem it is administered by Jordan’s Waqf Islamic affairs council, with Israel’s security forces operating and controlling access to the compound, it has a complicated history, to say the least. &nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-leads-criticism-of-israeli-ministers-visit-to-al-aqsa-compound-549288">U.S. leads criticism of Israeli Minister's visit to Al-Aqsa Compound</a>

The 35-acre Al-Aqsa mosque compound is known as Temple Mount to Jews and Haram al-Sharif, or Noble Sanctuary, to Muslims. It is a vast plaza overlooking Jerusalem's Old City which incorporates the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock.&nbsp;

In the context of religious significance, Temple Mount is deemed Judaism’s most sacred site and vestige of two ancient temples of the faith. Whereas, in Islam, it is the third-holiest after Mecca and Medina because for Muslims the site is associated with Prophet Muhammad's ascent to heaven. Meanwhile, it is also considered a Palestinian national symbol and is also of&nbsp;religious significance.&nbsp;

What does the Al-Aqsa status quo say?

The compound that lies in the Old City of Jerusalem has been designated as a World Heritage site by the United Nations cultural agency, UNESCO and has been one of the most disputed lands in the region more so with Israel’s occupation of East Jerusalem.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-benjamin-netanyahu-forms-the-most-right-wing-collation-government-in-history-545305">Benjamin Netanyahu forms most right-wing coalition govt in Israel's history</a>

Therefore, given its importance to the three Abrahamic religions the UN, in 1947, partitioned the plan which gave Israel 55 per cent of the land and the remaining 45 per cent to Palestine. The management system in place at the site currently, was implemented in 1967 following the six-day war when Israel captured Jerusalem's Old City including&nbsp;the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif&nbsp;from Jordan.&nbsp;

Subsequently, Jordan and Israel agreed that the Waqf or the Islamic trust would have control over the internal matters of Al-Aqsa while Israel would handle the external security. Additionally, the long-standing status quo of the site only permits Muslims to pray there while non-Muslims can only visit the site at specific times.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-says-jewish-people-not-occupiers-in-their-own-land-548464">Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says, 'Jewish people not occupiers in their own land'</a>

However, in recent years, right-wing Jewish groups “Temple Mount activists”, as they are reportedly called,&nbsp;have sought to change this status quo which has put Palestinians on edge prompting several clashes over the years. The latest one took place in April, last year when more than 150 Palestinians were wounded after Palestinians allegedly threw rocks and Israeli police fired stun grenades when thousands had gathered for Ramadan prayers.&nbsp; 
 
Ben-Gvir’s stance on Al-Aqsa

As mentioned earlier, the incumbent Israeli national security minister, who took office on December 29 after Netanyahu came into power, has long sought to change the status quo of the holy site. Ben-Gvir is allegedly also known to be an advocate for Jewish prayer to take place in the compound.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ben-gvir-visits-compound-housing-al-aqsa-mosque-under-heavy-security-548999">Ben-Gvir visits compound housing Al-Aqsa mosque under heavy security</a> 
 
According to the current agreement while Jews are allowed to visit the compound where the temples once stood they are not allowed to pray. However, while Ben-Gvir has visited the Al-Aqsa several times since he first took office in April 2021, they can no longer be seen as an ordinary Israeli citizen entering the compound since he is now a top minister and a government official, making the incident significant.&nbsp;

Furthermore, his visit also comes amid a recent escalation between Israel and Palestine along the West Bank as the past year has witnessed an uptick in violence. This also includes the 11-day conflict which broke out between Hamas and Israel in 2021 which ended after an Egypt-mediated ceasefire.&nbsp;

In an apparent response to the Hamas’ “red line” comment, during his visit, Ben-Gvir said, “The Israeli government won’t surrender to a murderous organization, to a vile terrorist organization,” reported Associated Press.&nbsp;Additionally, has also called the ban on Jewish prayer on the Temple Mount “racist discrimination,” and went on to describe the holy site as “the most important place for the Jewish people.”

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ben-gvir-visits-al-aqsa-mosque-in-jerusalem-enraging-palestinians-jordan-condemns-move-548979">Ben-Gvir visits Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, enraging Palestinians, Jordan condemns move</a>

He also took to Twitter to post an image of himself at the holy site&nbsp;and wrote, “The Israeli government of which I am a member will not surrender to a vile murdering organization. The Temple Mount is open to everyone and if Hamas thinks that if it threatens me it will deter me, let them understand that times have changed. There is a government in Jerusalem!”&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
ממשלת ישראל שאני חבר בה לא תיכנע לארגון מרצחים שפל. הר הבית פתוח לכולם ואם החמאס חושב שאם הוא יאיים עליי זה ירתיע אותי, שיבינו שהשתנו הזמנים. יש ממשלה בירושלים! <a href="https://t.co/vgDYBYacJG">pic.twitter.com/vgDYBYacJG</a>
— איתמר בן גביר (@itamarbengvir) <a href="https://twitter.com/itamarbengvir/status/1610170147720859648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Notably, a group of supposedly nationalist Jews have attempted to pray in the compound in the past despite it being forbidden by the Israeli authorities. This includes an Israeli court upholding the ban which was challenged last year. Additionally, Ben-Gvir is also known for his anti-Arab rhetoric and provocative stunts.&nbsp;In fact, he was also convicted in 2007 of racist incitement&nbsp;against Arabs and terrorism for backing a group which even Israel considers to be a terrorist&nbsp;organisation.&nbsp;

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Prior to his visit, former Israeli PM and Leader of the opposition Yair Lapid, also warned that Ben-Gvir’s intended visit would “lead to violence that will endanger human lives and cost human lives.” Meanwhile, following his minister’s visit, the newly elected PM Netanyahu’s office released a statement saying that he “is strictly committed to maintain the status quo, without any changes”.&nbsp;

However, the damage was done. “Events of 1967 are key to understand what happens here today”, said Daniel Seidemann, founder of Israeli NGO Terrestrial Jerusalem to DW, he went on to talk about how in recent decades Al-Aqsa has become a place which can eventually lead to a conflict, in the context of the gradually deteriorating status quo.&nbsp;

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He added, “And the international community cannot allow to turn a blind eye to this. We are watching a potential train wreck in slow motion.” Since then the situation has been unfolding like Seidemann described, as we continue to see widespread international condemnation of the visit as well as the retaliation and warnings.&nbsp;

Hamas’s retaliation on the visit&nbsp;

On Tuesday, following the visit, Israel Defense Forces confirmed that a rocket launched from Gaza fell within the Strip. However, no sirens were activated in Israel, said a report by the Jerusalem Post. Additionally, in a sharply worded comment, Hamas spokesman, Hazem Qassem, called the visit a continuation of, “Zionist’s occupation aggression on our sacred places and war on our Arab identity…Our Palestinian people will continue defending their holy places and Al-Aqsa mosque”.&nbsp;

How has the world reacted?

As expected, there has been widespread criticism and even warnings from different countries so far. This also includes a warning from the leader of Lebanon's powerful armed Hezbollah group, Hassan Nasrallah, “Attacking Al-Aqsa Mosque will not only blow up the situation inside Palestine but may blow up the entire region,” reported AFP. &nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uae-morocco-speak-out-against-ben-gvirs-move-netanyahu-postpones-visit-to-uae-549317">UAE, Morocco speak out against Ben-Gvir's move; Netanyahu postpones visit to UAE</a>

Additionally, Jordan’s foreign ministry also issued a statement saying that they condemn the visit “in severest of terms the storming of the Aqsa mosque and violating its sanctity.” Other countries that joined Palestine to criticise the move include Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, UAE, Kuwait, Egypt, Morocco, and Turkey. Notably, the United Arab Emirates and China, on Wednesday, also called for a UN Security Council meeting over the incident.&nbsp;

Notably, on Tuesday, the Israeli media reported that PM Netanyahu’s planned visit to the UAE next week has been postponed until February. The Israeli PM was slated to visit Abu Dhabi to meet the Crown Prince and ruler of the emirates Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyanm and mark&nbsp;his first public visit to the Gulf state. Meanwhile,&nbsp;media reports citing Netanyahu's aides dismissed the connection between the two incidents and instead&nbsp;said that the delay is&nbsp;due to&nbsp;a logistical issue.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-israeli-minister-ben-gvir-visits-volatile-jerusalem-holy-site-549106">WION Dispatch: Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir visits volatile Jerusalem holy site</a>

According to a report by Reuters, the UN council is expected to convene on Thursday. Following the visit, the Palestinian foreign ministry said it “strongly condemns the storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque by the extremist minister Ben-Gvir and views it as an unprecedented provocation and a dangerous escalation of the conflict”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, western countries like the United States, the United Kingdom and France have also condemned the visit. After the visit, the US&nbsp;Ambassador to Israel, Thomas Nides, "has been very clear in conversations with the Israeli government on the issue of preserving the status quo," said the embassy in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-postpones-uae-trip-hours-after-row-over-ben-gvirs-visit-to-al-aqsa-mosque-report-549180">Israeli PM Netanyahu postpones UAE trip hours after row over Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque : Report</a>

When asked about the incident, during a press briefing White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said “the United States stands firmly… for the preservation of the status quo with respect to holy sites in Jerusalem.” She added, “Any unilateral action that jeopardises the status quo is unacceptable.”

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, on Tuesday, visited the disputed holy site in Jerusalem, Al-Aqsa mosque, triggering widespread condemnation from several countries across the Arab world with the move being seen as a “deliberate provocation” by the Palestinians.

Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, on Tuesday, visited the disputed holy site in Jerusalem, Al-Aqsa mosque, triggering widespread condemnation from several countries across the Arab world with the move being seen as a “deliberate provocation” by the Palestinians. This comes after many had expressed concerns over the newly elected government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his right-wing allies, particularly over their relations with Palestine moving forward. Notably, Ben-Gvir has visited the compound even before as a member of the Knesset (Israeli parliament) and has sought to change the long-standing status quo of the sacred site. Prior to his visit on Tuesday, the Palestinian group, Hamas senior officials, had warned the incumbent national security minister of Israel that the move would cross a “red line”. Why is Al-Aqsa important? The holy site is of religious significance to Jews, Muslims, as well as Christians. However, situated in the Israeli-controlled East Jerusalem it is administered by Jordan’s Waqf Islamic affairs council, with Israel’s security forces operating and controlling access to the compound, it has a complicated history, to say the least. ALSO WATCH | U.S. leads criticism of Israeli Minister's visit to Al-Aqsa Compound The 35-acre Al-Aqsa mosque compound is known as Temple Mount to Jews and Haram al-Sharif, or Noble Sanctuary, to Muslims. It is a vast plaza overlooking Jerusalem's Old City which incorporates the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock. In the context of religious significance, Temple Mount is deemed Judaism’s most sacred site and vestige of two ancient temples of the faith. Whereas, in Islam, it is the third-holiest after Mecca and Medina because for Muslims the site is associated with Prophet Muhammad's ascent to heaven. Meanwhile, it is also considered a Palestinian national symbol and is also of religious significance. What does the Al-Aqsa status quo say? The compound that lies in the Old City of Jerusalem has been designated as a World Heritage site by the United Nations cultural agency, UNESCO and has been one of the most disputed lands in the region more so with Israel’s occupation of East Jerusalem. ALSO READ | Benjamin Netanyahu forms most right-wing coalition govt in Israel's history Therefore, given its importance to the three Abrahamic religions the UN, in 1947, partitioned the plan which gave Israel 55 per cent of the land and the remaining 45 per cent to Palestine. The management system in place at the site currently, was implemented in 1967 following the six-day war when Israel captured Jerusalem's Old City including the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif from Jordan. Subsequently, Jordan and Israel agreed that the Waqf or the Islamic trust would have control over the internal matters of Al-Aqsa while Israel would handle the external security. Additionally, the long-standing status quo of the site only permits Muslims to pray there while non-Muslims can only visit the site at specific times. ALSO WATCH | Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says, 'Jewish people not occupiers in their own land' However, in recent years, right-wing Jewish groups “Temple Mount activists”, as they are reportedly called, have sought to change this status quo which has put Palestinians on edge prompting several clashes over the years. The latest one took place in April, last year when more than 150 Palestinians were wounded after Palestinians allegedly threw rocks and Israeli police fired stun grenades when thousands had gathered for Ramadan prayers. Ben-Gvir’s stance on Al-Aqsa As mentioned earlier, the incumbent Israeli national security minister, who took office on December 29 after Netanyahu came into power, has long sought to change the status quo of the holy site. Ben-Gvir is allegedly also known to be an advocate for Jewish prayer to take place in the compound. ALSO WATCH | Ben-Gvir visits compound housing Al-Aqsa mosque under heavy security According to the current agreement while Jews are allowed to visit the compound where the temples once stood they are not allowed to pray. However, while Ben-Gvir has visited the Al-Aqsa several times since he first took office in April 2021, they can no longer be seen as an ordinary Israeli citizen entering the compound since he is now a top minister and a government official, making the incident significant. Furthermore, his visit also comes amid a recent escalation between Israel and Palestine along the West Bank as the past year has witnessed an uptick in violence. This also includes the 11-day conflict which broke out between Hamas and Israel in 2021 which ended after an Egypt-mediated ceasefire. In an apparent response to the Hamas’ “red line” comment, during his visit, Ben-Gvir said, “The Israeli government won’t surrender to a murderous organization, to a vile terrorist organization,” reported Associated Press. Additionally, has also called the ban on Jewish prayer on the Temple Mount “racist discrimination,” and went on to describe the holy site as “the most important place for the Jewish people.” ALSO READ | Ben-Gvir visits Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, enraging Palestinians, Jordan condemns move He also took to Twitter to post an image of himself at the holy site and wrote, “The Israeli government of which I am a member will not surrender to a vile murdering organization. The Temple Mount is open to everyone and if Hamas thinks that if it threatens me it will deter me, let them understand that times have changed. There is a government in Jerusalem!” ממשלת ישראל שאני חבר בה לא תיכנע לארגון מרצחים שפל. הר הבית פתוח לכולם ואם החמאס חושב שאם הוא יאיים עליי זה ירתיע אותי, שיבינו שהשתנו הזמנים. יש ממשלה בירושלים! pic.twitter.com/vgDYBYacJG — איתמר בן גביר (@itamarbengvir) January 3, 2023 × Notably, a group of supposedly nationalist Jews have attempted to pray in the compound in the past despite it being forbidden by the Israeli authorities. This includes an Israeli court upholding the ban which was challenged last year. Additionally, Ben-Gvir is also known for his anti-Arab rhetoric and provocative stunts. In fact, he was also convicted in 2007 of racist incitement against Arabs and terrorism for backing a group which even Israel considers to be a terrorist organisation. ALSO READ | Benjamin Netanyahu slams ‘despicable’ UN vote, says Israel not bound by it Prior to his visit, former Israeli PM and Leader of the opposition Yair Lapid, also warned that Ben-Gvir’s intended visit would “lead to violence that will endanger human lives and cost human lives.” Meanwhile, following his minister’s visit, the newly elected PM Netanyahu’s office released a statement saying that he “is strictly committed to maintain the status quo, without any changes”. However, the damage was done. “Events of 1967 are key to understand what happens here today”, said Daniel Seidemann, founder of Israeli NGO Terrestrial Jerusalem to DW, he went on to talk about how in recent decades Al-Aqsa has become a place which can eventually lead to a conflict, in the context of the gradually deteriorating status quo. ALSO WATCH | Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu unveils his right-wing government's policy priorities He added, “And the international community cannot allow to turn a blind eye to this. We are watching a potential train wreck in slow motion.” Since then the situation has been unfolding like Seidemann described, as we continue to see widespread international condemnation of the visit as well as the retaliation and warnings. Hamas’s retaliation on the visit On Tuesday, following the visit, Israel Defense Forces confirmed that a rocket launched from Gaza fell within the Strip. However, no sirens were activated in Israel, said a report by the Jerusalem Post. Additionally, in a sharply worded comment, Hamas spokesman, Hazem Qassem, called the visit a continuation of, “Zionist’s occupation aggression on our sacred places and war on our Arab identity…Our Palestinian people will continue defending their holy places and Al-Aqsa mosque”. How has the world reacted? As expected, there has been widespread criticism and even warnings from different countries so far. This also includes a warning from the leader of Lebanon's powerful armed Hezbollah group, Hassan Nasrallah, “Attacking Al-Aqsa Mosque will not only blow up the situation inside Palestine but may blow up the entire region,” reported AFP. ALSO WATCH | UAE, Morocco speak out against Ben-Gvir's move; Netanyahu postpones visit to UAE Additionally, Jordan’s foreign ministry also issued a statement saying that they condemn the visit “in severest of terms the storming of the Aqsa mosque and violating its sanctity.” Other countries that joined Palestine to criticise the move include Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, UAE, Kuwait, Egypt, Morocco, and Turkey. Notably, the United Arab Emirates and China, on Wednesday, also called for a UN Security Council meeting over the incident. Notably, on Tuesday, the Israeli media reported that PM Netanyahu’s planned visit to the UAE next week has been postponed until February. The Israeli PM was slated to visit Abu Dhabi to meet the Crown Prince and ruler of the emirates Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyanm and mark his first public visit to the Gulf state. Meanwhile, media reports citing Netanyahu's aides dismissed the connection between the two incidents and instead said that the delay is due to a logistical issue. ALSO WATCH | WION Dispatch: Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir visits volatile Jerusalem holy site According to a report by Reuters, the UN council is expected to convene on Thursday. Following the visit, the Palestinian foreign ministry said it “strongly condemns the storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque by the extremist minister Ben-Gvir and views it as an unprecedented provocation and a dangerous escalation of the conflict”. Meanwhile, western countries like the United States, the United Kingdom and France have also condemned the visit. After the visit, the US Ambassador to Israel, Thomas Nides, "has been very clear in conversations with the Israeli government on the issue of preserving the status quo," said the embassy in a statement. ALSO READ | Israeli PM Netanyahu postpones UAE trip hours after row over Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque : Report When asked about the incident, during a press briefing White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said “the United States stands firmly… for the preservation of the status quo with respect to holy sites in Jerusalem.” She added, “Any unilateral action that jeopardises the status quo is unacceptable.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage?

Retaliating to a rocket fired from the Palestinian enclave towards its territory, Israel on Sunday reported that it had carried out overnight air strikes against sites of the Hamas in the Gaza strip.&nbsp;On Saturday, the Israeli army, as per AFP report,&nbsp;said that for the first in a month, a rocket had been fired from the Gaza strip towards Israel.

The Israeli army issued a statement claiming that "in response to the rocket fired toward Israeli territory, IDF fighter jets targeted overnight (Sunday) a weapons manufacturing site belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation."

According to the statement, the target was a location "where the majority of the organisation's rockets in the Gaza Strip are being manufactured."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-tensions-israel-drafts-panther-battalion-to-secure-west-bank-seam-line-539021">Palestine tensions: Israel drafts Panther battalion to secure West Bank seam line</a>

It said that the Israeli Defence Forces had also destroyed "a Hamas terrorist tunnel in the Southern Gaza Strip."

The attack comes following the killing of two of its commanders by Israeli forces in the West Bank town of Jenin on Thursday, the Islamic Jihad, one of Gaza's most powerful armed groups, had pledged to retaliate.

Hamas military wing said that&nbsp;during Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, anti-aircraft missiles were employed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hady-amr-says-us-is-committed-to-reopening-consulate-in-jerusalem-538912">Palestine tensions: Israel drafts Panther battalion to secure West Bank seam line</a>

According to an AFP report citing security sources in Gaza, two strikes were reportedly carried out in the south of the enclave, one targeting a military training facility near Khan Younis and the other in an unoccupied area close to Rafah.

Palestinian medical sources report no injuries, however, Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem said, "The Zionist enemy is extending its aggression against our people by brutally bombarding the Gaza Strip, following its crime yesterday of executing the martyr Ammar Mufleh in Huwara."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Retaliating to a rocket fired from the Palestinian enclave towards its territory, Israel on Sunday reported that it had carried out overnight air strikes against sites of the Hamas in the Gaza strip.

Retaliating to a rocket fired from the Palestinian enclave towards its territory, Israel on Sunday reported that it had carried out overnight air strikes against sites of the Hamas in the Gaza strip. On Saturday, the Israeli army, as per AFP report, said that for the first in a month, a rocket had been fired from the Gaza strip towards Israel. The Israeli army issued a statement claiming that "in response to the rocket fired toward Israeli territory, IDF fighter jets targeted overnight (Sunday) a weapons manufacturing site belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation." According to the statement, the target was a location "where the majority of the organisation's rockets in the Gaza Strip are being manufactured." Also read | Palestine tensions: Israel drafts Panther battalion to secure West Bank seam line It said that the Israeli Defence Forces had also destroyed "a Hamas terrorist tunnel in the Southern Gaza Strip." The attack comes following the killing of two of its commanders by Israeli forces in the West Bank town of Jenin on Thursday, the Islamic Jihad, one of Gaza's most powerful armed groups, had pledged to retaliate. Hamas military wing said that during Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, anti-aircraft missiles were employed. Also read | Palestine tensions: Israel drafts Panther battalion to secure West Bank seam line According to an AFP report citing security sources in Gaza, two strikes were reportedly carried out in the south of the enclave, one targeting a military training facility near Khan Younis and the other in an unoccupied area close to Rafah. Palestinian medical sources report no injuries, however, Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem said, "The Zionist enemy is extending its aggression against our people by brutally bombarding the Gaza Strip, following its crime yesterday of executing the martyr Ammar Mufleh in Huwara." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel retaliates, carries out overnight air strikes against Hamas in Gaza Strip