Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised

In just the first 25 days, more than 3,600 children have lost their lives to the increasingly brutal Israel-Hamas war, reports the Hamas controlled Gaza Health Ministry.

Gaza, as per the UN's children agency UNICEF, has become "a graveyard for thousands of children", where more than 400 are killed or injured every day. Gazans say parenthood in the war-torn land has become a "curse".

<h2>The toll on innocence</h2>

As per global charity Save the Children, in just over three weeks, the ongoing war has claimed the lives of more children than all the world's conflicts combined in the last three years.

In the crowded Gaza Strip, almost half of the 2.3 million inhabitants are under 18, and so far, around 40 per cent of the dead are children.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/your-whole-world-stops-israel-vs-hamas-war-claims-42-members-of-family-youngest-victim-three-month-old-653823">'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old</a>

James Elder, the United Nations Children's Fund's (UNICEF) spokesperson,&nbsp;said, "Gaza has become a graveyard for thousands of children".

According to UNICEF estimates, every day, more than 400 children are killed or injured in Gaza due to the Israeli offensive.&nbsp;

In a statement, the UN agency said that around 3,500 children have reportedly been killed, while more than 6,800 have been injured due to the "ongoing bombardment".

"This cannot become the new normal," it asserted, adding, "Children have endured too much already. The killing and captivity of children must stop. Children are not a target."

<h2>The 'curse' of parenthood</h2>

"It’s a curse to be a parent in Gaza," said Ahmed Modawikh, who lost his eight-year-old daughter to the war, as quoted by news agency AP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mom-im-fine-family-reveal-6-year-old-hate-crime-victims-heartbreaking-last-words-647816">'Mom, I'm fine': 6-year-old Muslim boy's heartbreaking last words before dying in hate crime</a>

Another Gazan, Yasmine Jouda, who has lost 68 members of his extended family in an airstrike on a four-story building in Deir al-Balah, summed up the situation in just nine words: "People are running from death only to find death".

It is not just Gaza. Israeli children have also become victims of the bloodshed too. When Hamas militants launched their attack on October 7, about 1,400 Israelis were killed, among them babies and small children. 
 
Reports of allegedly beheaded babies and charred bodies of children shocked the global community. Of the more than 240 hostages still stuck in the clutches of militants, some 30 are children.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/horrible-horrible-images-war-correspondent-stands-by-report-of-beheadings-of-israeli-babies-645754">I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies</a>

The tragedy of lost innocence unfortunately doesn't end here. Hundreds of minors have lost their parents, many are left without a family.

"What did this tiny baby do to deserve a life without any family?" questions Jouda, whose one-year-old Milissa is now an orphan, having lost her mother to an attack.

A huge number of injured children, their heartbreaking visuals of being pulled from the rubble, all bloody or writhing on dirty gurneys in makeshift hospitals, are a haunting reminder of the massive cost wars have on 'innocence'.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. 
&nbsp;

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised In just the first 25 days, more than 3,600 children have lost their lives to the increasingly brutal Israel-Hamas war, reports the Hamas controlled Gaza Health Ministry.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised In just the first 25 days, more than 3,600 children have lost their lives to the increasingly brutal Israel-Hamas war, reports the Hamas controlled Gaza Health Ministry. Gaza, as per the UN's children agency UNICEF, has become "a graveyard for thousands of children", where more than 400 are killed or injured every day. Gazans say parenthood in the war-torn land has become a "curse". The toll on innocence As per global charity Save the Children, in just over three weeks, the ongoing war has claimed the lives of more children than all the world's conflicts combined in the last three years. In the crowded Gaza Strip, almost half of the 2.3 million inhabitants are under 18, and so far, around 40 per cent of the dead are children. Also read | 'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old James Elder, the United Nations Children's Fund's (UNICEF) spokesperson, said, "Gaza has become a graveyard for thousands of children". According to UNICEF estimates, every day, more than 400 children are killed or injured in Gaza due to the Israeli offensive. In a statement, the UN agency said that around 3,500 children have reportedly been killed, while more than 6,800 have been injured due to the "ongoing bombardment". "This cannot become the new normal," it asserted, adding, "Children have endured too much already. The killing and captivity of children must stop. Children are not a target." The 'curse' of parenthood "It’s a curse to be a parent in Gaza," said Ahmed Modawikh, who lost his eight-year-old daughter to the war, as quoted by news agency AP. Also read | 'Mom, I'm fine': 6-year-old Muslim boy's heartbreaking last words before dying in hate crime Another Gazan, Yasmine Jouda, who has lost 68 members of his extended family in an airstrike on a four-story building in Deir al-Balah, summed up the situation in just nine words: "People are running from death only to find death". It is not just Gaza. Israeli children have also become victims of the bloodshed too. When Hamas militants launched their attack on October 7, about 1,400 Israelis were killed, among them babies and small children. Reports of allegedly beheaded babies and charred bodies of children shocked the global community. Of the more than 240 hostages still stuck in the clutches of militants, some 30 are children. Also read | I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies The tragedy of lost innocence unfortunately doesn't end here. Hundreds of minors have lost their parents, many are left without a family. "What did this tiny baby do to deserve a life without any family?" questions Jouda, whose one-year-old Milissa is now an orphan, having lost her mother to an attack. A huge number of injured children, their heartbreaking visuals of being pulled from the rubble, all bloody or writhing on dirty gurneys in makeshift hospitals, are a haunting reminder of the massive cost wars have on 'innocence'. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

Gaza a 'graveyard' where parenthood is a 'curse': Israel-Hamas war claims lives of 400+ children every day

Hamas'&nbsp;underground tunnels have been described as "Gaza Metro" by Israeli authorities. These tunnels which run for miles underneath Gaza have long been a source of anxiety for Israeli forces.&nbsp;

We previously reported that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) will use an innovative weapon called the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-sponge-bomb-israels-new-weapon-to-secure-hamas-underground-tunnels-652100">"sponge bombs"</a> and special 'killer' drones to combat militants and their surprise ambush. Now, recent reports indicate that the military will use specialist units that include attack dogs.&nbsp;

<h2>'Sting' attack dogs and specialised units</h2>

As per The National report quoting officials in the Israeli military, specialist teams made up of Oketz or "sting" dog attack units and the Samur "Weasel" subterranean commandos will help deal with these tunnels.

These commandos, as per the report, have been trained in a specially built tunnel complex under the Negev Desert in Israel.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-sponge-bomb-israels-new-weapon-to-secure-hamas-underground-tunnels-652100">Explained: 'Sponge Bomb,' Israel's new weapon to secure Hamas' underground tunnels</a>

Reportedly, defence analysts have disclosed that the forces have used ground-penetrating radar and gravity detectors to map out the over 500-kilometre&nbsp;spiderweb tunnel system under Gaza.

Israel has also formed a force of combat engineers to locate the tunnels. This force is called Yahalom "Diamond" and has been trained to either destroy the tunnels or blow them up, to allow for a "hard entry" by the Samur and Oketz units.

The two units will drop into the tunnels that would likely have been blown open.

They will also use robots that have been developed by Tel Aviv company Roboteam. The company has developed IRIS, a 'throwbot', that boasts the capability to be operated remotely. The drone, which can provide critical insights and imagery from within the intricate tunnel network, is tailored to meet the demands of combat situations. It can even feature the capacity for attachments, such as weapons, ensuring enhanced capabilities for potential threats that may be seen during reconnaissance.

Alongside IRIS, Roboteam technology company has developed the MTGR (Micro Tactical Ground Robot). This as per reports, can navigate stairs and confined spaces like caves.

<h2>Gaza tunnels</h2>

As per former Israeli military brigadier General Amir Avivi, "There is a whole city all over Gaza underneath with depths of 40–50 metres. There are bunkers and headquarters and storage and, of course, they are connected to more than a thousand rocket launching positions."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/your-whole-world-stops-israel-vs-hamas-war-claims-42-members-of-family-youngest-victim-three-month-old-653823">'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old</a>

"It is a very complicated situation, and I'm not talking about the number of dead or number of kidnapped, namely the infrastructure of the lower city, of the tunnels, is a very delicate situation," said Omri Attar, a reserve major in a special operations brigade.

Hamas is believed to have dug some of the Gaza tunnel network decades ago, back in the mid-1990s. As per reports, these tunnels have evolved into a multifaceted infrastructure. Much of it stretches under civilian structures and has exit/entry points in civilian areas.

Reuters reports that Israeli ground troops have also been trained to locate and seal off air vents and escape hatches leading to the tunnel openings.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas' underground tunnels have been described as "Gaza Metro" by Israeli authorities. These tunnels which run for miles underneath Gaza have long been a source of anxiety for Israeli forces.

Hamas' underground tunnels have been described as "Gaza Metro" by Israeli authorities. These tunnels which run for miles underneath Gaza have long been a source of anxiety for Israeli forces. We previously reported that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) will use an innovative weapon called the "sponge bombs" and special 'killer' drones to combat militants and their surprise ambush. Now, recent reports indicate that the military will use specialist units that include attack dogs. 'Sting' attack dogs and specialised units As per The National report quoting officials in the Israeli military, specialist teams made up of Oketz or "sting" dog attack units and the Samur "Weasel" subterranean commandos will help deal with these tunnels. These commandos, as per the report, have been trained in a specially built tunnel complex under the Negev Desert in Israel. Also read | Explained: 'Sponge Bomb,' Israel's new weapon to secure Hamas' underground tunnels Reportedly, defence analysts have disclosed that the forces have used ground-penetrating radar and gravity detectors to map out the over 500-kilometre spiderweb tunnel system under Gaza. Israel has also formed a force of combat engineers to locate the tunnels. This force is called Yahalom "Diamond" and has been trained to either destroy the tunnels or blow them up, to allow for a "hard entry" by the Samur and Oketz units. The two units will drop into the tunnels that would likely have been blown open. They will also use robots that have been developed by Tel Aviv company Roboteam. The company has developed IRIS, a 'throwbot', that boasts the capability to be operated remotely. The drone, which can provide critical insights and imagery from within the intricate tunnel network, is tailored to meet the demands of combat situations. It can even feature the capacity for attachments, such as weapons, ensuring enhanced capabilities for potential threats that may be seen during reconnaissance. Alongside IRIS, Roboteam technology company has developed the MTGR (Micro Tactical Ground Robot). This as per reports, can navigate stairs and confined spaces like caves. Gaza tunnels As per former Israeli military brigadier General Amir Avivi, "There is a whole city all over Gaza underneath with depths of 40–50 metres. There are bunkers and headquarters and storage and, of course, they are connected to more than a thousand rocket launching positions." Also read | 'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old "It is a very complicated situation, and I'm not talking about the number of dead or number of kidnapped, namely the infrastructure of the lower city, of the tunnels, is a very delicate situation," said Omri Attar, a reserve major in a special operations brigade. Hamas is believed to have dug some of the Gaza tunnel network decades ago, back in the mid-1990s. As per reports, these tunnels have evolved into a multifaceted infrastructure. Much of it stretches under civilian structures and has exit/entry points in civilian areas. Reuters reports that Israeli ground troops have also been trained to locate and seal off air vents and escape hatches leading to the tunnel openings. (With inputs from agencies)

'Sponge bombs,' killer drones, and attack dogs: The many weapons Israel will use to tackle Hamas tunnels

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised

Wars often come at an enormous price for those caught in the midst. Away from the blood and the alarms of the Israel-Hamas war, a family in Minnesota is yet to come to grips with the massive price they've paid: 42 lives.

A week ago, a Palestinian American family in Maple Grove, Minnesota in the US, learned that they had lost 42 members of their family to the war.

<h2>Coming to terms&nbsp;</h2>

Tariq Hamouda and his wife&nbsp;still cannot fully comprehend that they've lost three generations of their family.&nbsp;Talking to CNN, Hamouda said that his wife, whose maiden name is Saqallah, lost four brothers, a sister, and their many children in what they claim were Israeli airstrikes. The explosions, as per the family, destroyed the Saqallah family compound in the Sheikh Ejleen neighbourhood of Gaza City on October 19.&nbsp;

"Up until last night, she is still denying (the loss)," said Hamouda.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fuel-and-medicines-dwindle-as-gazas-only-cancer-hospital-bears-the-brunt-of-israeli-blockade-report-648708">Fuel and medicines dwindle as Gaza's only cancer hospital bears the brunt of Israeli blockade: Report</a>

Another member of the family, Eyad Abu Shaban, who lives in South Florida, says, "It's like your whole world stops" after such a loss.

He told CNN that of the 42 family members they lost, the youngest was aged just three months, and the oldest was around 77 years. Among the deceased were medical professionals, including eye and ENT doctors who operated Gaza's prominent family-owned eye clinics.

<h2>No warning given</h2>

As per Tariq Hamouda, before the strikes, the family received calls warning of military activity in the area, but they were not asked to evacuate.

"They have bombed houses with warnings and without warnings," he said, deploring the fear, and confusion faced by Palestinians.

Hamouda revealed that his mother-in-law, who was standing on the balcony when the first strike happened, managed to escape.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-mother-of-6-year-old-hate-crime-victim-asks-world-to-pray-for-peace-650965">Israel vs Hamas | Mother of 6-year-old hate crime victim asks world to 'pray for peace'</a>

"My mother-in-law said her sons tried to evacuate, but they had no time."

The Palestinian-American man said that a second strike obliterated the family house, killing dozens inside.&nbsp;

Hamouda and his family insist that the affected family members had no involvement in any militant activities and that they "had nothing to do with anything at all."

Abu Shaban underlined that their family consisted of ordinary civilians.

"We have no Hamas members [in our family]. They're just ordinary people: doctors and grandmothers and grandfathers and uncles and aunts and children," he lamented, adding, "I mean, if you want to exterminate Hamas then you should go to the source."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-sponge-bomb-israels-new-weapon-to-secure-hamas-underground-tunnels-652100">Explained: 'Sponge Bomb,' Israel's new weapon to secure Hamas' underground tunnels</a>

Appealing for the violence to cease, the aggrieved family highlighted the human toll of the conflict and said, "We've never seen in this day and age where the whole world is watching innocent people just being torn apart. Families, whole families, just wiped off the map."

"I want everybody to know that the people of Gaza are just like them. They hurt, they bleed, they have families, they have feelings," added Abu Shaban.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Wars often come at an enormous price for those caught in the midst.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Wars often come at an enormous price for those caught in the midst. Away from the blood and the alarms of the Israel-Hamas war, a family in Minnesota is yet to come to grips with the massive price they've paid: 42 lives. A week ago, a Palestinian American family in Maple Grove, Minnesota in the US, learned that they had lost 42 members of their family to the war. Coming to terms Tariq Hamouda and his wife still cannot fully comprehend that they've lost three generations of their family. Talking to CNN, Hamouda said that his wife, whose maiden name is Saqallah, lost four brothers, a sister, and their many children in what they claim were Israeli airstrikes. The explosions, as per the family, destroyed the Saqallah family compound in the Sheikh Ejleen neighbourhood of Gaza City on October 19. "Up until last night, she is still denying (the loss)," said Hamouda. Also read | Fuel and medicines dwindle as Gaza's only cancer hospital bears the brunt of Israeli blockade: Report Another member of the family, Eyad Abu Shaban, who lives in South Florida, says, "It's like your whole world stops" after such a loss. He told CNN that of the 42 family members they lost, the youngest was aged just three months, and the oldest was around 77 years. Among the deceased were medical professionals, including eye and ENT doctors who operated Gaza's prominent family-owned eye clinics. No warning given As per Tariq Hamouda, before the strikes, the family received calls warning of military activity in the area, but they were not asked to evacuate. "They have bombed houses with warnings and without warnings," he said, deploring the fear, and confusion faced by Palestinians. Hamouda revealed that his mother-in-law, who was standing on the balcony when the first strike happened, managed to escape. Also read | Israel vs Hamas | Mother of 6-year-old hate crime victim asks world to 'pray for peace' "My mother-in-law said her sons tried to evacuate, but they had no time." The Palestinian-American man said that a second strike obliterated the family house, killing dozens inside. Hamouda and his family insist that the affected family members had no involvement in any militant activities and that they "had nothing to do with anything at all." Abu Shaban underlined that their family consisted of ordinary civilians. "We have no Hamas members [in our family]. They're just ordinary people: doctors and grandmothers and grandfathers and uncles and aunts and children," he lamented, adding, "I mean, if you want to exterminate Hamas then you should go to the source." Also read | Explained: 'Sponge Bomb,' Israel's new weapon to secure Hamas' underground tunnels Appealing for the violence to cease, the aggrieved family highlighted the human toll of the conflict and said, "We've never seen in this day and age where the whole world is watching innocent people just being torn apart. Families, whole families, just wiped off the map." "I want everybody to know that the people of Gaza are just like them. They hurt, they bleed, they have families, they have feelings," added Abu Shaban. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Your whole world stops': Israel vs Hamas war claims 42 members of a family; youngest victim three-month-old

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of stirring up the "deadly chaos" unfolding in the Middle East.

He has also charged the West and Ukraine of stirring up unrest inside Russia. This comes after anti-Israel protesters stormed the Makhachkala airport in Russia's predominantly Muslim Dagestan region.

<h2>Who's benefiting from the "deadly chaos"?</h2>

Speaking during a televised meeting with high-ranking members of his security council, Putin instigated that the US and Ukraine orchestrated the riot at the Russian airport via social media, and said, "The events in Makhachkala last night were instigated through social networks, not least from Ukraine, by the hands of agents of Western special services."

The Russian President claimed that there have been "attempts" to destabilise the Russian society.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protesters-enter-russian-airport-in-search-of-jewish-people-chant-anti-israeli-remarks-652865">Pro-Palestinian protesters storm Russia's Dagestan airport in search of Jews, chant anti-Israel slogans</a>

Accusing the US of sowing instability in the Middle East, he questioned, "Who is organising the deadly chaos and who benefits from it today, in my opinion, has already become obvious… It is the current ruling elites of the US and their satellites who are the main beneficiaries of world instability."

Putin also said that in the wake&nbsp;to protect "interreligious harmony," Russian law enforcement needed to take "firm, timely and clear actions."

<h2>Old habits?</h2>

As per the news agency AFP, Russia regularly blames domestic unrest on external, usually Western forces.

Putin's allegations come after the Russian Foreign Ministry accused Ukraine of playing a "direct and key role" in the Makhachkala airport "provocation".

However, this accusation was labelled "absurd" by the US. Speaking to reporters on Monday, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said: "I've seen their comments about blaming Ukraine. That is absurd."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-uk-government-aide-paul-bristow-fired-after-calls-for-permanent-ceasefire-in-gaza-653237">Israel-Hamas war: UK government aide Paul Bristow fired after calls for 'permanent ceasefire' in Gaza</a>

"We call on Russian authorities to publicly condemn these violent protests, to hold anyone involved accountable and to ensure the safety of Israelis and Jews in Russia," he added.

<h2>What happened at Makhachkala airport?</h2>

On Monday (Oct 30), a mob converged at the airport after a Telegram channel "Utro Dagestan" urged locals to meet the "uninvited guests" in "adult fashion" and to get them to turn around and fly somewhere else. As per AFP, while the channel didn't explicitly mention the word "Jew," it made reference to "unclean" passengers. The channel was banned later.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of stirring up the "deadly chaos" unfolding in the Middle East. He has also charged the West and Ukraine of stirring up unrest inside Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused the United States of stirring up the "deadly chaos" unfolding in the Middle East. He has also charged the West and Ukraine of stirring up unrest inside Russia. This comes after anti-Israel protesters stormed the Makhachkala airport in Russia's predominantly Muslim Dagestan region. Who's benefiting from the "deadly chaos"? Speaking during a televised meeting with high-ranking members of his security council, Putin instigated that the US and Ukraine orchestrated the riot at the Russian airport via social media, and said, "The events in Makhachkala last night were instigated through social networks, not least from Ukraine, by the hands of agents of Western special services." The Russian President claimed that there have been "attempts" to destabilise the Russian society. Also read | Pro-Palestinian protesters storm Russia's Dagestan airport in search of Jews, chant anti-Israel slogans Accusing the US of sowing instability in the Middle East, he questioned, "Who is organising the deadly chaos and who benefits from it today, in my opinion, has already become obvious… It is the current ruling elites of the US and their satellites who are the main beneficiaries of world instability." Putin also said that in the wake to protect "interreligious harmony," Russian law enforcement needed to take "firm, timely and clear actions." Old habits? As per the news agency AFP, Russia regularly blames domestic unrest on external, usually Western forces. Putin's allegations come after the Russian Foreign Ministry accused Ukraine of playing a "direct and key role" in the Makhachkala airport "provocation". However, this accusation was labelled "absurd" by the US. Speaking to reporters on Monday, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said: "I've seen their comments about blaming Ukraine. That is absurd." Also read | Israel-Hamas war: UK government aide Paul Bristow fired after calls for 'permanent ceasefire' in Gaza "We call on Russian authorities to publicly condemn these violent protests, to hold anyone involved accountable and to ensure the safety of Israelis and Jews in Russia," he added. What happened at Makhachkala airport? On Monday (Oct 30), a mob converged at the airport after a Telegram channel "Utro Dagestan" urged locals to meet the "uninvited guests" in "adult fashion" and to get them to turn around and fly somewhere else. As per AFP, while the channel didn't explicitly mention the word "Jew," it made reference to "unclean" passengers. The channel was banned later. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin blames Ukraine and the West for airport riot; claims US behind 'deadly chaos' in Middle East

For years, Hollywood has been a stronghold of progressive values, where the left-leaning Democratic Party finds resounding support. It's a place where liberal ideologies are championed, and where celebrities have used their platform to endorse causes like Black Lives Matter. This ideological alignment appeared almost unshakeable until the events of October 7, when an armed conflict erupted between Hamas-led Palestinian militant groups and the Israeli military.&nbsp;

The attack began with a coordinated surprise offensive by Hamas, codenamed "Al-Aqsa Flood." It involved a massive rocket barrage launched from the Gaza Strip into Israel and the breach of the Gaza-Israel barrier by Palestinian militants who attacked civilian communities and Israeli military bases. Israel formally declared war on Hamas after the offensive.&nbsp;

It launched airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, resulting in thousands of deaths. Concerns about a humanitarian crisis have escalated after Israel discontinued the provision of food, water, electricity, and fuel to Gaza.

The war has divided global public opinion, with several pro-Palestine rallies, anti-Semitic attacks and terrorist killings reported from different parts of the world. Hollywood has also not been left untouched. But in order to understand the Hollywood reaction, we need to dig into its past a bit.

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<h2>Exploring Hollywood's deep Jewish roots</h2>

From the very inception of Hollywood, Jews have played a key role in shaping the entertainment industry. Seeking refuge from anti-Semitism and discrimination in other industries, Jewish immigrants in the early 20th century became pioneers in the burgeoning film business. Paramount Pictures, Warner Bros, Universal Pictures – these major studios, founded by Jewish entrepreneurs, would go on to become the cornerstones of the industry.

Over the decades, Jews have ascended to prominence in various roles within the entertainment and media businesses. Figures like Barbra Streisand, Kirk Douglas, and Natalie Portman have achieved international acclaim as actors, while directors like Steven Spielberg and Mel Brooks have left indelible marks on cinema. Producers, including Carl Laemmle and Lew Wasserman, have played pivotal roles in shaping the industry's business landscape. The Jewish influence extends beyond the names and faces on the screen, touching upon the stories told, the themes explored, and the values championed.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-netanyahu-helped-grow-hamas-which-became-the-frankensteins-monster-for-him-651336">Explained | How Netanyahu helped turn Hamas into his Frankenstein's monster</a>

<h2>The resounding silence</h2>

What's remarkable about the recent Hollywood divide is the notable silence that followed the Israel-Hamas conflict. Prominent celebrities, often vocal about global events on social media, remained surprisingly quiet. Major studios, typically quick to comment on socio-political issues worldwide, initially chose silence over action. This stands in stark contrast to the industry's unified opposition to Russia's Ukraine invasion in February 2022.

<h2>The Writers' Guild divide</h2>

The most evident division emerged within the Writers Guild of America (WGA), representing a significant portion of Hollywood's screenwriters. The WGA's decision not to condemn the attacks on Israel left many Jewish writers disenchanted. Some even contemplated severing ties with the union, while others, like Marc Guggenheim, a notable writer and producer, decided to withhold their dues. In contrast, an anonymous pro-Palestinian group known as WGA for Peace supported the union's stance, arguing that its members were apprehensive about being labelled as anti-Semitic.

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<h2>A broader ideological chasm</h2>

This divide isn't confined to Hollywood; it extends to the broader liberal landscape. The Israel-Palestine conflict has ignited passionate debates within political circles, among students on college campuses in prestigious universities like Harvard and Stanford, and within progressive activist groups and philanthropic organisations. On one side, there's fervent support for Israel, while on the other, an energised faction perceives the Palestinian cause as an extension of the broader social justice movements that gained momentum in the United States in 2020. Simultaneously, there are voices, including Jewish individuals, advocating for a ceasefire.

<h2>Letters to President Biden</h2>

Prominent figures, including well-known actors like Paul Rudd and Ben Stiller, expressed their gratitude to President Joe Biden for his diplomatic efforts in one letter. In contrast, another group, featuring notables like Ben Affleck and Tony Kushner, penned a separate letter, urging President Biden to call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Israel.

<h2>Social media controversy</h2>

Differences in opinion also spilled over onto social media platforms. Notable agent Maha Dakhil at the Creative Artists Agency faced a backlash after characterising Israel's airstrikes in Gaza as "genocide" in an Instagram post. Dakhil, who represents high-profile stars like Natalie Portman and Reese Witherspoon, later issued an apology and stepped down from an internal leadership position at the agency. This incident led to the loss of a significant client, screenwriter and playwright Aaron Sorkin, who<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-aaron-sorkin-leaves-talent-agency-caa-over-maha-dakhils-controversial-israel-hamas-post-651200"> opted to switch</a> to a rival agency.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-explained-how-martin-scorsese-makes-movies-651192">Explained: How Martin Scorsese makes movies</a>

<h2>Resurgence of anti-Semitism</h2>

While the division within the entertainment industry hasn't led to violence, there's growing concern among Jewish individuals as anti-Semitic incidents and hate crimes have surged in the United States since the start of the conflict. The Anti-Defamation League reported a 388 per cent increase in harassment, vandalism, and assault in the past three weeks compared to the same period the previous year.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-explained--osage-indian-murders-that-inspired-martin-scorseses-killers-of-the-flower-moon-592892">&nbsp;Explained | Osage Indian Murders that inspired Martin Scorsese's Killers of the Flower Moon</a>

<h2>Is the complexity of the conflict to blame?</h2>

The divide that has emerged within Hollywood may, in large part, be attributed to the inherent complexity of the Israel-Palestine conflict. This multifaceted and deeply entrenched conflict defies simplistic solutions and has fueled a wide spectrum of opinions, even within the liberal bastion of Hollywood.

The conflict's long and turbulent history, marked by territorial disputes, historical grievances, and competing narratives, has generated passionate advocacy on both sides. Within the entertainment industry, where social and political issues are often under the spotlight, navigating this intricate landscape becomes challenging.

The conflict's nuances make it difficult for a one-size-fits-all approach to be embraced in a place like Hollywood, where diversity of thought and perspective is generally celebrated. This complexity has contributed to the divide within the industry, with individuals and organisations grappling with how to align their values and beliefs in a landscape marked by conflicting loyalties and deeply held convictions.

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For years, Hollywood has been a stronghold of progressive values, where the left-leaning Democratic Party finds resounding support. It's a place where liberal ideologies are championed, and where celebrities have used their platform to endorse causes like Black Lives Matter.

For years, Hollywood has been a stronghold of progressive values, where the left-leaning Democratic Party finds resounding support. It's a place where liberal ideologies are championed, and where celebrities have used their platform to endorse causes like Black Lives Matter. This ideological alignment appeared almost unshakeable until the events of October 7, when an armed conflict erupted between Hamas-led Palestinian militant groups and the Israeli military. The attack began with a coordinated surprise offensive by Hamas, codenamed "Al-Aqsa Flood." It involved a massive rocket barrage launched from the Gaza Strip into Israel and the breach of the Gaza-Israel barrier by Palestinian militants who attacked civilian communities and Israeli military bases. Israel formally declared war on Hamas after the offensive. It launched airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, resulting in thousands of deaths. Concerns about a humanitarian crisis have escalated after Israel discontinued the provision of food, water, electricity, and fuel to Gaza. The war has divided global public opinion, with several pro-Palestine rallies, anti-Semitic attacks and terrorist killings reported from different parts of the world. Hollywood has also not been left untouched. But in order to understand the Hollywood reaction, we need to dig into its past a bit. Exploring Hollywood's deep Jewish roots From the very inception of Hollywood, Jews have played a key role in shaping the entertainment industry. Seeking refuge from anti-Semitism and discrimination in other industries, Jewish immigrants in the early 20th century became pioneers in the burgeoning film business. Paramount Pictures, Warner Bros, Universal Pictures – these major studios, founded by Jewish entrepreneurs, would go on to become the cornerstones of the industry. Over the decades, Jews have ascended to prominence in various roles within the entertainment and media businesses. Figures like Barbra Streisand, Kirk Douglas, and Natalie Portman have achieved international acclaim as actors, while directors like Steven Spielberg and Mel Brooks have left indelible marks on cinema. Producers, including Carl Laemmle and Lew Wasserman, have played pivotal roles in shaping the industry's business landscape. The Jewish influence extends beyond the names and faces on the screen, touching upon the stories told, the themes explored, and the values championed. Also Read | Explained | How Netanyahu helped turn Hamas into his Frankenstein's monster The resounding silence What's remarkable about the recent Hollywood divide is the notable silence that followed the Israel-Hamas conflict. Prominent celebrities, often vocal about global events on social media, remained surprisingly quiet. Major studios, typically quick to comment on socio-political issues worldwide, initially chose silence over action. This stands in stark contrast to the industry's unified opposition to Russia's Ukraine invasion in February 2022. The Writers' Guild divide The most evident division emerged within the Writers Guild of America (WGA), representing a significant portion of Hollywood's screenwriters. The WGA's decision not to condemn the attacks on Israel left many Jewish writers disenchanted. Some even contemplated severing ties with the union, while others, like Marc Guggenheim, a notable writer and producer, decided to withhold their dues. In contrast, an anonymous pro-Palestinian group known as WGA for Peace supported the union's stance, arguing that its members were apprehensive about being labelled as anti-Semitic. A broader ideological chasm This divide isn't confined to Hollywood; it extends to the broader liberal landscape. The Israel-Palestine conflict has ignited passionate debates within political circles, among students on college campuses in prestigious universities like Harvard and Stanford, and within progressive activist groups and philanthropic organisations. On one side, there's fervent support for Israel, while on the other, an energised faction perceives the Palestinian cause as an extension of the broader social justice movements that gained momentum in the United States in 2020. Simultaneously, there are voices, including Jewish individuals, advocating for a ceasefire. Letters to President Biden Prominent figures, including well-known actors like Paul Rudd and Ben Stiller, expressed their gratitude to President Joe Biden for his diplomatic efforts in one letter. In contrast, another group, featuring notables like Ben Affleck and Tony Kushner, penned a separate letter, urging President Biden to call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Israel. Social media controversy Differences in opinion also spilled over onto social media platforms. Notable agent Maha Dakhil at the Creative Artists Agency faced a backlash after characterising Israel's airstrikes in Gaza as "genocide" in an Instagram post. Dakhil, who represents high-profile stars like Natalie Portman and Reese Witherspoon, later issued an apology and stepped down from an internal leadership position at the agency. This incident led to the loss of a significant client, screenwriter and playwright Aaron Sorkin, who opted to switch to a rival agency. Also Read | Explained: How Martin Scorsese makes movies Resurgence of anti-Semitism While the division within the entertainment industry hasn't led to violence, there's growing concern among Jewish individuals as anti-Semitic incidents and hate crimes have surged in the United States since the start of the conflict. The Anti-Defamation League reported a 388 per cent increase in harassment, vandalism, and assault in the past three weeks compared to the same period the previous year. Also Read | Explained | Osage Indian Murders that inspired Martin Scorsese's Killers of the Flower Moon Is the complexity of the conflict to blame? The divide that has emerged within Hollywood may, in large part, be attributed to the inherent complexity of the Israel-Palestine conflict. This multifaceted and deeply entrenched conflict defies simplistic solutions and has fueled a wide spectrum of opinions, even within the liberal bastion of Hollywood. The conflict's long and turbulent history, marked by territorial disputes, historical grievances, and competing narratives, has generated passionate advocacy on both sides. Within the entertainment industry, where social and political issues are often under the spotlight, navigating this intricate landscape becomes challenging. The conflict's nuances make it difficult for a one-size-fits-all approach to be embraced in a place like Hollywood, where diversity of thought and perspective is generally celebrated. This complexity has contributed to the divide within the industry, with individuals and organisations grappling with how to align their values and beliefs in a landscape marked by conflicting loyalties and deeply held convictions. 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 | How Israel-Hamas war is dividing Hollywood and celeb world

Israel is still pondering ovr prisoner swap. Hamas releases video of hostages. The hostages urged Netanyahu for prisoner exchange.

Israel still pondering over  'Prisoner Swap', hostages urge Netanyahu for prisoner exchange

Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, another Gaza hospital has come under fire as per reports. On Sunday, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said that the Israeli military was putting civilians at risk by repeatedly bombing near its Al-Quds hospital in central Gaza's Tel al-Hawa.

<h2>Patients suffocating</h2>

The medical organisation in a statement said that "the Israeli army deliberately continues to launch rockets directly near Al-Quds hospital with the aim of forcing medical staff, displaced individuals and patients to evacuate the hospital."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-concerns-mount-over-regional-war-will-the-israel-hamas-war-spread-652974">West Asia: Concerns mount over regional war. Will the Israel-Hamas war spread?</a>

This, as per The Palestinian Red Crescent Society, has "caused significant damage to hospital departments and exposed residents and patients to suffocation".

Furthermore, as per the organisation, some 14,000 displaced people sheltering in the hospital are also affected by the Israeli bombing.

<h2>Evacuation ordered</h2>

Talking to news agency AFP, Hospital director Bashar Murad revealed that, on Sunday, twice, they received calls, and threats from Israeli forces asking them to evacuate the facility.

"We received strongly worded threats from the occupation (Israeli) forces to immediately evacuate Al-Quds hospital in the Gaza Strip as it will be bombed," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/earnings-in-the-fog-of-war-global-companies-dance-to-israel-hamas-tune-652988">Earnings in the fog of war: Global companies dance to Israel-Hamas tune</a>

On Facebook, the group said, "Since this morning, there has been raids 50 metres away from the hospital."

However, as per a military spokesperson, these calls were not threats, rather they were "part of the military's overall call asking people to head to the south" of the Gaza Strip.

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Direct targeting near Al-Quds Hospital in Tel Al-Hawa. This hospital houses over 14,000 displaced people and hundreds of patients. 
 
The occupation warned the hospital that it would be bombed and that it must be evacuated. It is not logical or reasonable in this situation to… <a href="https://t.co/fvsovRmg1d">pic.twitter.com/fvsovRmg1d</a>
— Dunia🇵🇸 (@Dunian98) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dunian98/status/1718648071989399844?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

<h2>Deeply concerning: WHO</h2>

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the head of World Health Organization (WHO) has labelled the reports of threats to the Al-Quds hospital "deeply concerning".&nbsp;

Taking to social media platform X, he reiterated, "It's impossible to evacuate hospitals full of patients without endangering their lives".

Meanwhile, militant group Hamas has urged the "United Nations and the international community to take immediate action to stop the threat by the occupation (Israel) to target Al-Quds hospital".

Hamas-ruled Gaza's health ministry claims that&nbsp;during the course of war that erupted on October 7th, there have been 57 attacks on medical facilities. In a statement, the ministry said that as the fighting rages on, a dozen hospitals in Gaza are no longer functioning. Additionally, it claimed said that the war has claimed the lives of 116 health workers.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, another Gaza hospital has come under fire as per reports. On Sunday, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said that the Israeli military was putting civilians at risk by repeatedly bombing near its Al-Quds hospital in central Gaza's Tel al-Hawa.

Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, another Gaza hospital has come under fire as per reports. On Sunday, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said that the Israeli military was putting civilians at risk by repeatedly bombing near its Al-Quds hospital in central Gaza's Tel al-Hawa. Patients suffocating The medical organisation in a statement said that "the Israeli army deliberately continues to launch rockets directly near Al-Quds hospital with the aim of forcing medical staff, displaced individuals and patients to evacuate the hospital." Also read | West Asia: Concerns mount over regional war. Will the Israel-Hamas war spread? This, as per The Palestinian Red Crescent Society, has "caused significant damage to hospital departments and exposed residents and patients to suffocation". Furthermore, as per the organisation, some 14,000 displaced people sheltering in the hospital are also affected by the Israeli bombing. Evacuation ordered Talking to news agency AFP, Hospital director Bashar Murad revealed that, on Sunday, twice, they received calls, and threats from Israeli forces asking them to evacuate the facility. "We received strongly worded threats from the occupation (Israeli) forces to immediately evacuate Al-Quds hospital in the Gaza Strip as it will be bombed," he said. Also read | Earnings in the fog of war: Global companies dance to Israel-Hamas tune On Facebook, the group said, "Since this morning, there has been raids 50 metres away from the hospital." However, as per a military spokesperson, these calls were not threats, rather they were "part of the military's overall call asking people to head to the south" of the Gaza Strip. Direct targeting near Al-Quds Hospital in Tel Al-Hawa. This hospital houses over 14,000 displaced people and hundreds of patients. The occupation warned the hospital that it would be bombed and that it must be evacuated. It is not logical or reasonable in this situation to… pic.twitter.com/fvsovRmg1d — Dunia🇵🇸 (@Dunian98) October 29, 2023 × Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. Deeply concerning: WHO Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the head of World Health Organization (WHO) has labelled the reports of threats to the Al-Quds hospital "deeply concerning". Taking to social media platform X, he reiterated, "It's impossible to evacuate hospitals full of patients without endangering their lives". Meanwhile, militant group Hamas has urged the "United Nations and the international community to take immediate action to stop the threat by the occupation (Israel) to target Al-Quds hospital". Hamas-ruled Gaza's health ministry claims that during the course of war that erupted on October 7th, there have been 57 attacks on medical facilities. In a statement, the ministry said that as the fighting rages on, a dozen hospitals in Gaza are no longer functioning. Additionally, it claimed said that the war has claimed the lives of 116 health workers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel-Hamas war: 1,400 displaced, hundreds of patients under threat as Israel bombs Al-Quds hospital vicinity

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised

Israeli citizens are making fun of Palestinian tragedies on the social media platform TikTok and netizens are not happy.

As the Israel-Hamas war enters its 21st day, the internet is appalled as videos of a new TikTok trend are going viral. In these videos, people, allegedly Israeli citizens, can be seen mocking Palestinians.

This comes as the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry&nbsp;released a list of names of almost 7,000 Gazans it said had been killed in Israeli strikes.

<h2>A mockery of tragedy</h2>

In these videos, people can be seen mocking different aspects of Palestinian suffering. Due to the sensitive nature of the videos, we have not attached them here, but they can easily be accessed on all social media platforms.&nbsp;

An alarming aspect of these videos is the small children&nbsp;who can be seen taking part in the taunting.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-releases-names-of-nearly-7000-people-killed-amid-israeli-strikes-651766">Israel-Hamas war: Gaza health ministry releases names of nearly 7,000 people 'killed' amid Israeli strikes</a>

Donning keffiyeh — a traditional headdress worn in many Middle Eastern nations, including Gaza, these people can be seen wearing makeup to appear injured and sprinkling talcum powder to make it seem like they're covered in dust or debris. In some videos, people carry dolls swaddled in cloth — a mockery of reports of the mothers who have lost their babies to the Israeli strikes.

One such video poking fun at Palestinian mothers by an Israeli influencer identified by The Express Tribune as Eve Cohen sparked controversy earlier this week. Cohen in the video allegedly claimed that mothers are faking the deaths of their children.

In others, they flaunt water, or light candles in the dark — jeering at Palestinians who have gone without water and power for days.&nbsp;

<h2>A wave of outrage</h2>

The videos by Cohen and others have predictably sparked widespread outrage. Netizens are calling out people in the videos for their apparent lack of sensitivity towards the Palestinian plight.&nbsp;

On X, one user questioned, "Is Palestinian genocide the new source of Israeli comedy or something?"

Another said that the videos were an "example of the anti-Palestinian racist conspiracy theory of 'pallywood,' where some Zionists argue that Palestinians manipulate media through 'faking suffering' - unsurprisingly, it's also very similar to anti-Semitic tropes too. Very telling about Israel supporters."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-says-may-support-gaza-ceasefire-only-after-hostages-freed-650469">US President Biden says may support Gaza ceasefire only after hostages are freed</a>

One user labelled the videos 'revolting' and cautioned, "Karma never fails, by the way!"

Expressing alarm at these videos that also feature small children, one user wrote: "Wtf??? There kids are learning how to be racist from a very young age!!!!!!!!!"

Others quoted the Bible and posted: "Galatians 6:7 (KJV) Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

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Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Israeli citizens are making fun of Palestinian tragedies on the social media platform TikTok and netizens are not happy.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Israeli citizens are making fun of Palestinian tragedies on the social media platform TikTok and netizens are not happy. As the Israel-Hamas war enters its 21st day, the internet is appalled as videos of a new TikTok trend are going viral. In these videos, people, allegedly Israeli citizens, can be seen mocking Palestinians. This comes as the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry released a list of names of almost 7,000 Gazans it said had been killed in Israeli strikes. A mockery of tragedy In these videos, people can be seen mocking different aspects of Palestinian suffering. Due to the sensitive nature of the videos, we have not attached them here, but they can easily be accessed on all social media platforms. An alarming aspect of these videos is the small children who can be seen taking part in the taunting. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza health ministry releases names of nearly 7,000 people 'killed' amid Israeli strikes Donning keffiyeh — a traditional headdress worn in many Middle Eastern nations, including Gaza, these people can be seen wearing makeup to appear injured and sprinkling talcum powder to make it seem like they're covered in dust or debris. In some videos, people carry dolls swaddled in cloth — a mockery of reports of the mothers who have lost their babies to the Israeli strikes. One such video poking fun at Palestinian mothers by an Israeli influencer identified by The Express Tribune as Eve Cohen sparked controversy earlier this week. Cohen in the video allegedly claimed that mothers are faking the deaths of their children. In others, they flaunt water, or light candles in the dark — jeering at Palestinians who have gone without water and power for days. A wave of outrage The videos by Cohen and others have predictably sparked widespread outrage. Netizens are calling out people in the videos for their apparent lack of sensitivity towards the Palestinian plight. On X, one user questioned, "Is Palestinian genocide the new source of Israeli comedy or something?" Another said that the videos were an "example of the anti-Palestinian racist conspiracy theory of 'pallywood,' where some Zionists argue that Palestinians manipulate media through 'faking suffering' - unsurprisingly, it's also very similar to anti-Semitic tropes too. Very telling about Israel supporters." Also read | US President Biden says may support Gaza ceasefire only after hostages are freed One user labelled the videos 'revolting' and cautioned, "Karma never fails, by the way!" Expressing alarm at these videos that also feature small children, one user wrote: "Wtf??? There kids are learning how to be racist from a very young age!!!!!!!!!" Others quoted the Bible and posted: "Galatians 6:7 (KJV) Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel-Hamas war: Social media scrambles to scrub spoof videos mocking Palestinians

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

As the conflict between Israel and Hamas intensifies, Israeli forces, as per reports, are set to use a 'novel' arsenal of tactics. This includes the use of innovative bomb known as "sponge bombs" which can seal off the intricate network of tunnels beneath Gaza without any explosions.&nbsp;

Even as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have remained tight-lipped about the use of these "sponge bombs," it is reported that these weapons can seal off tunnel entrances and help prevent surprise attacks from Hamas militants.

<h2>How the 'Sponge Bomb' works</h2>

The "sponge bombs" are a chemical weapon&nbsp;and are different from traditional explosives.&nbsp;

They do not explode in the traditional sense, instead&nbsp;they trigger a sudden explosion of foam. This foam, as per a Telegraph report, rapidly expands and solidifies.&nbsp;

In this case, it can effectively block tunnel passageways like the so-called "Gaza Metro", preventing potential ambushes by militants emerging from these hidden pathways.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-will-israel-hamas-war-cause-a-global-jihad-against-the-west-652050">Explained: Will Israel-Hamas war cause a global jihad against the West?</a>

Gaza Metro is a vast and intricate system of tunnels believed to span hundreds of miles. These tunnels are thought to be riddled with traps and are used by Hamas for a variety of purposes, including keeping the hostages.&nbsp;

As per the report, it is also where the Hamas militant leaders "hope to survive the coming war".&nbsp;

These curious, cutting-edge bombs are stored in plastic containers, which consist of two separate liquid compounds partitioned by a metal barrier.&nbsp;

When the barrier is removed, the compounds blend, creating the foam. After removing the barrier, the sponge bomb is thrown into the tunnel, where it expands and hardens.&nbsp;

<h2>Testing ground: Simulated tunnels and specialised units</h2>

As per reports, even as the IDF remains tight-lipped about the bombs, its soldiers were first seen deploying them back in 2021.

Now, to prepare for the impending ground invasion announced recently, IDF soldiers have been rigorously training in a mock tunnel system at the Tze’Elim army base near the Gaza border.&nbsp;

Specialised tunnel reconnaissance units which include the IDF's engineering corps have been equipped with advanced ground and aerial sensors, ground-penetrating radar, and specialised drilling systems to locate and navigate the complex tunnel network, reports The Telegraph.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/under-putin-russia-gets-orthodox-about-abortions-restricts-access-651903">Under Putin, Russia gets orthodox about abortions, restricts access</a>

Additionally,&nbsp;troops have been given equipment that uses thermal technology to "see" in the pitch-dark underground. While standard night vision goggles use ambient light, these can function without.

Furthermore, they have been equipped with novel radios that can function even in underground conditions.

Israel-based Roboteam technology company has also developed IRIS, a small, throwable drone, that boasts the capability to be operated remotely. The drone, which can provide critical insights and imagery from within the intricate tunnel network, is tailored to meet the demands of combat situations. It can even feature the capacity for attachments such as weapons, ensuring enhanced capabilities for potential threats that may be seen during reconnaissance.

Alongside IRIS, Roboteam technology company has developed the MTGR (Micro Tactical Ground Robot). This as per reports can navigate stairs and confined spaces like caves.

<h2>Risks, complications and more</h2>

These advanced equipment comes with its own risk. The Sponge Bombs are made up of volatile liquid emulsion, which has resulted in unfortunate incidents, with some soldiers reportedly rendered blind.

Due to this hazard, Israel may have to use technological adaptations, such as 'throwbots' which can relay the image back to the controller who can operate the robot safely from a distance.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-before-and-after-satellite-images-show-destruction-in-gaza-651992">Israel-Hamas war: Before and after satellite images show destruction in Gaza</a>

Micro-drones have also been proposed for reconnaissance, their&nbsp;purpose is to aid troops in navigating the intricate tunnel system while minimising potential risks.&nbsp;

However, the operation of robots and drones within the underground passages has encountered several obstacles, including weak signals and navigation difficulties. Various technological adaptations, such as throwbots and micro-drones for reconnaissance, have been suggested, aiming to aid troops in navigating the intricate tunnel system while minimizing potential risks.

<h2>A moral quandary</h2>

As per Former Israeli military brigadier general Amir Avivi, "There is a whole city all over Gaza underneath with depths of 40-50 metres. There are bunkers and headquarters and storage and, of course, they are connected to more than a thousand rocket launching positions."

Hamas is believed to have dug some of the Gaza tunnel network decades ago, back&nbsp;in the mid-1990s. As per reports, these tunnels have evolved into a multifaceted infrastructure. Much of it stretches under civilian structures, and has exit/entry points in civilian areas.

Speaking to the press on Thursday (October 26th) an Israeli military spokesperson as quoted by Reuters said: "I won't elaborate on the number of kilometres of tunnels but it is a high number, built under schools and residential areas."

While the fascinating 'Sponge Bomb' come with limitless possibilities, their use poses a huge moral quandary. Targeting these tunnels means risking civilian lives.

This makes it challenging for the IDF to 'neutralise' threats without endangering innocent lives and inviting international condemnation.&nbsp;

"Sponge bombs" can provide Israel a crucial advantage in the war that has already crossed the 20-day mark. As per Israeli data, around 1,400 people have been killed and Hamas has taken another 220 hostage. On the other hand, the Hamas controlled Gaza health ministry has reported that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed during the airstrikes.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. As the conflict between Israel and Hamas intensifies, Israeli forces, as per reports, are set to use a 'novel' arsenal of tactics. This includes the use of innovative bomb known as "sponge bombs" which can seal off the intricate network of tunnels beneath Gaza without any explosions. Even as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have remained tight-lipped about the use of these "sponge bombs," it is reported that these weapons can seal off tunnel entrances and help prevent surprise attacks from Hamas militants. How the 'Sponge Bomb' works The "sponge bombs" are a chemical weapon and are different from traditional explosives. They do not explode in the traditional sense, instead they trigger a sudden explosion of foam. This foam, as per a Telegraph report, rapidly expands and solidifies. In this case, it can effectively block tunnel passageways like the so-called "Gaza Metro", preventing potential ambushes by militants emerging from these hidden pathways. Also read | Explained: Will Israel-Hamas war cause a global jihad against the West? Gaza Metro is a vast and intricate system of tunnels believed to span hundreds of miles. These tunnels are thought to be riddled with traps and are used by Hamas for a variety of purposes, including keeping the hostages. As per the report, it is also where the Hamas militant leaders "hope to survive the coming war". These curious, cutting-edge bombs are stored in plastic containers, which consist of two separate liquid compounds partitioned by a metal barrier. When the barrier is removed, the compounds blend, creating the foam. After removing the barrier, the sponge bomb is thrown into the tunnel, where it expands and hardens. Testing ground: Simulated tunnels and specialised units As per reports, even as the IDF remains tight-lipped about the bombs, its soldiers were first seen deploying them back in 2021. Now, to prepare for the impending ground invasion announced recently, IDF soldiers have been rigorously training in a mock tunnel system at the Tze’Elim army base near the Gaza border. Specialised tunnel reconnaissance units which include the IDF's engineering corps have been equipped with advanced ground and aerial sensors, ground-penetrating radar, and specialised drilling systems to locate and navigate the complex tunnel network, reports The Telegraph. Also read | Under Putin, Russia gets orthodox about abortions, restricts access Additionally, troops have been given equipment that uses thermal technology to "see" in the pitch-dark underground. While standard night vision goggles use ambient light, these can function without. Furthermore, they have been equipped with novel radios that can function even in underground conditions. Israel-based Roboteam technology company has also developed IRIS, a small, throwable drone, that boasts the capability to be operated remotely. The drone, which can provide critical insights and imagery from within the intricate tunnel network, is tailored to meet the demands of combat situations. It can even feature the capacity for attachments such as weapons, ensuring enhanced capabilities for potential threats that may be seen during reconnaissance. Alongside IRIS, Roboteam technology company has developed the MTGR (Micro Tactical Ground Robot). This as per reports can navigate stairs and confined spaces like caves. Risks, complications and more These advanced equipment comes with its own risk. The Sponge Bombs are made up of volatile liquid emulsion, which has resulted in unfortunate incidents, with some soldiers reportedly rendered blind. Due to this hazard, Israel may have to use technological adaptations, such as 'throwbots' which can relay the image back to the controller who can operate the robot safely from a distance. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Before and after satellite images show destruction in Gaza Micro-drones have also been proposed for reconnaissance, their purpose is to aid troops in navigating the intricate tunnel system while minimising potential risks. However, the operation of robots and drones within the underground passages has encountered several obstacles, including weak signals and navigation difficulties. Various technological adaptations, such as throwbots and micro-drones for reconnaissance, have been suggested, aiming to aid troops in navigating the intricate tunnel system while minimizing potential risks. A moral quandary As per Former Israeli military brigadier general Amir Avivi, "There is a whole city all over Gaza underneath with depths of 40-50 metres. There are bunkers and headquarters and storage and, of course, they are connected to more than a thousand rocket launching positions." Hamas is believed to have dug some of the Gaza tunnel network decades ago, back in the mid-1990s. As per reports, these tunnels have evolved into a multifaceted infrastructure. Much of it stretches under civilian structures, and has exit/entry points in civilian areas. Speaking to the press on Thursday (October 26th) an Israeli military spokesperson as quoted by Reuters said: "I won't elaborate on the number of kilometres of tunnels but it is a high number, built under schools and residential areas." While the fascinating 'Sponge Bomb' come with limitless possibilities, their use poses a huge moral quandary. Targeting these tunnels means risking civilian lives. This makes it challenging for the IDF to 'neutralise' threats without endangering innocent lives and inviting international condemnation. "Sponge bombs" can provide Israel a crucial advantage in the war that has already crossed the 20-day mark. As per Israeli data, around 1,400 people have been killed and Hamas has taken another 220 hostage. On the other hand, the Hamas controlled Gaza health ministry has reported that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed during the airstrikes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: 'Sponge Bomb,' Israel's new weapon to secure Hamas' underground tunnels

U.S. officials are worried about more attacks on U.S. troops in the Middle East. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin are also concerned about the threat.

Is there an increased threat to US troops in the Middle East?

A British family has confirmed the death of their daughter, Noiya Sharabi, in the tragic aftermath of the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Be'eri in southern Israel.&nbsp;

Noiya, aged 16, along with her 13-year-old sister Yahel, went missing after the attack that claimed the life of their British-born mother, Lianne.

<h2>'End of the world'</h2>

Talking to BBC, the Sharabi family, residents of the UK, described the teenager as "full of life".

"Noiya was clever, sensitive, fun and full of life - her smile lit up the room like a beacon."

They acknowledged her academic prowess and linguistic abilities and said she "embraced every opportunity to help others, particularly those less fortunate than she, and was a gifted student and linguist."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-wont-hesitate-to-act-in-case-of-conflict-escalation-says-austin-650024">Israel-Hamas war: US won't hesitate to act in case of conflict escalation, says Austin</a>

"Most importantly, she was an amazing granddaughter, cousin and niece. We are heartbroken she has gone, but forever grateful she was here."

The two sisters have been missing since the October 7 massacre at the kibbutz. Their mother was confirmed dead earlier while&nbsp;their father was still missing.

Yahel, the younger sister, had already been confirmed dead the previous week. Other relatives of theirs have been kidnapped, reports BBC.

"For us, it is the end of the world. Noiya, Yahel and Lianne will always be in our hearts," said Raz Matalon, the sisters'&nbsp;uncle.

<h2>Extended family&nbsp;in shambles</h2>

Lianne, the girls' mother, had initially come to Israel as a volunteer on a kibbutz when she was 19.&nbsp;

Eventually, she made the country her permanent home. The family maintained a connection with relatives in the UK, visiting them at least once a year.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-will-make-its-lifes-mistake-if-it-starts-war-with-israel-netanyahu-650048">Hezbollah will make its life's mistake if it starts war with Israel: Netanyahu</a>

The Hamas attacks in southern Israel have claimed the lives of at least 10 British citizens. Furthermore, as per BBC, it is believed that one British citizen has been taken hostage and five others are missing.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A British family has confirmed the death of their daughter, Noiya Sharabi, in the tragic aftermath of the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Be'eri in southern Israel. Noiya, aged 16, along with her 13-year-old sister Yahel, went missing after the attack that claimed the life of their British-born mother, Lianne.

A British family has confirmed the death of their daughter, Noiya Sharabi, in the tragic aftermath of the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Be'eri in southern Israel. Noiya, aged 16, along with her 13-year-old sister Yahel, went missing after the attack that claimed the life of their British-born mother, Lianne. 'End of the world' Talking to BBC, the Sharabi family, residents of the UK, described the teenager as "full of life". "Noiya was clever, sensitive, fun and full of life - her smile lit up the room like a beacon." They acknowledged her academic prowess and linguistic abilities and said she "embraced every opportunity to help others, particularly those less fortunate than she, and was a gifted student and linguist." Also read | Israel-Hamas war: US won't hesitate to act in case of conflict escalation, says Austin "Most importantly, she was an amazing granddaughter, cousin and niece. We are heartbroken she has gone, but forever grateful she was here." The two sisters have been missing since the October 7 massacre at the kibbutz. Their mother was confirmed dead earlier while their father was still missing. Yahel, the younger sister, had already been confirmed dead the previous week. Other relatives of theirs have been kidnapped, reports BBC. "For us, it is the end of the world. Noiya, Yahel and Lianne will always be in our hearts," said Raz Matalon, the sisters' uncle. Extended family in shambles Lianne, the girls' mother, had initially come to Israel as a volunteer on a kibbutz when she was 19. Eventually, she made the country her permanent home. The family maintained a connection with relatives in the UK, visiting them at least once a year. Also read | Hezbollah will make its life's mistake if it starts war with Israel: Netanyahu The Hamas attacks in southern Israel have claimed the lives of at least 10 British citizens. Furthermore, as per BBC, it is believed that one British citizen has been taken hostage and five others are missing. (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.

A family destroyed: UK girl Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in Hamas attack along with mom, sister

A rally held in solidarity with Palestinians became the target of a possible hate crime in the United States' Minneapolis on Sunday (October 22nd).

Witness reports allege that someone drove a car through the crowd. No injuries have been reported as of now.&nbsp;

<h2>Gunshot heard</h2>

As people gathered to rally in support of Palestinians, someone allegedly drove a vehicle through the crowds.

The incident, as per the Minneapolis Police Department incident report as cited by CBS News, happened near the junction of Hennepin Avenue and Lyndale Avenue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-family-destroyed-16-year-old-british-teen-noiya-sharabi-confirmed-dead-in-tragic-hamas-attack-650157">A family destroyed: 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack</a>

At approximately 3:23 p.m., the police received several reports of disturbances surrounding a demonstration.

Police report that various witnesses claimed that a vehicle had driven through the gathering, trying to plough them down. One person also reported hearing the sound of a gunshot.&nbsp;

However, at the time of this report, there were no reported victims, and no one had come forward with injuries related to the demonstration.&nbsp;

<h2>Who was behind this act?</h2>

Videos and photos shared on social media platform X show a white car zooming through the crowds and narrowly missing protestors.

Have a look here:

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Photos and videos of the driver who attacked the Palestine rally today. <a href="https://t.co/m3jkVutLWB">pic.twitter.com/m3jkVutLWB</a>
— Nick Estes (@nickwestes) <a href="https://twitter.com/nickwestes/status/1716225860607295877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Videos show the driver of the car completely ignoring a barrier of vehicles set up to block off a part of the road for protests.

People tried to push the car back into the traffic, and at one point, opened the door to try and, pull the driver out, reports Mirror.

However, the driver escapes, with some shouting protesters chasing the car.

<h2>Arrest and suspicions&nbsp;</h2>

The Minneapolis Police Department is currently conducting follow-up investigations into the incident. As it does so, they clarified that no arrests have been made thus far.&nbsp;

The Minnesota Anti-War Committee, a key organizer of the rally, as per the report, has disclosed plans for a similar protest outside Representative Betty McCullom's office in St. Paul on Wednesday afternoon.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/will-wikipedia-become-diipedia-elon-musk-offers-1-billion-for-nsfw-name-change-650212">Will Wikipedia become 'Di**ipedia'? Elon Musk offers $1 billion for NSFW name change</a>

This comes as the ongoing Israel-Hamas war has stoked tensions in the United States. The past few days have seen incidents of hate crime increasing. In one fatal incident, a six-year-old Muslim child was stabbed to death by his landlord, allegedly for his religion.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A rally held in solidarity with Palestinians became the target of a possible hate crime in the United States' Minneapolis on Sunday (October 22nd). Witness reports allege that someone drove a car through the crowd.

A rally held in solidarity with Palestinians became the target of a possible hate crime in the United States' Minneapolis on Sunday (October 22nd). Witness reports allege that someone drove a car through the crowd. No injuries have been reported as of now. Gunshot heard As people gathered to rally in support of Palestinians, someone allegedly drove a vehicle through the crowds. The incident, as per the Minneapolis Police Department incident report as cited by CBS News, happened near the junction of Hennepin Avenue and Lyndale Avenue. Also read | A family destroyed: 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack At approximately 3:23 p.m., the police received several reports of disturbances surrounding a demonstration. Police report that various witnesses claimed that a vehicle had driven through the gathering, trying to plough them down. One person also reported hearing the sound of a gunshot. However, at the time of this report, there were no reported victims, and no one had come forward with injuries related to the demonstration. Who was behind this act? Videos and photos shared on social media platform X show a white car zooming through the crowds and narrowly missing protestors. Have a look here: Photos and videos of the driver who attacked the Palestine rally today. pic.twitter.com/m3jkVutLWB — Nick Estes (@nickwestes) October 22, 2023 × Videos show the driver of the car completely ignoring a barrier of vehicles set up to block off a part of the road for protests. People tried to push the car back into the traffic, and at one point, opened the door to try and, pull the driver out, reports Mirror. However, the driver escapes, with some shouting protesters chasing the car. Arrest and suspicions The Minneapolis Police Department is currently conducting follow-up investigations into the incident. As it does so, they clarified that no arrests have been made thus far. The Minnesota Anti-War Committee, a key organizer of the rally, as per the report, has disclosed plans for a similar protest outside Representative Betty McCullom's office in St. Paul on Wednesday afternoon. Also read | Will Wikipedia become 'Di**ipedia'? Elon Musk offers $1 billion for NSFW name change This comes as the ongoing Israel-Hamas war has stoked tensions in the United States. The past few days have seen incidents of hate crime increasing. In one fatal incident, a six-year-old Muslim child was stabbed to death by his landlord, allegedly for his religion. (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.

Video shows car ploughing through pro-Palestine rally in Minneapolis

The U.S. is exercising caution. Amid the escalating Israel-Hamas war. Are Americans going to be a target? Amid the Israel-Hamas war & increasing anti-U.S. protests, the U.S. issued a worldwide caution for Americans travelling overseas.

Is there an increased security threat for overseas Americans amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war?

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took off for Israel to hold&nbsp;talks with his Israeli counterpart. After concluding his Israel visit, Sunak&nbsp;is scheduled to travel to other countries in the region for further discussions with other leaders in West Asia, Downing Street announced.

Downing Street, however, did not specify which other leaders Sunak will engage with. Instead, it mentioned that the UK Prime Minister will travel "to a number of other regional capitals", whose details have not been released due to security reasons.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spotlight-on-washingtons-waning-political-capital-after-gaza-hospital-blast-sinks-bidens-jordan-summit-648187">Spotlight on Washington's waning political capital after Gaza hospital blast sinks Biden's Jordan summit</a>

In Israel, Sunak will meet with PM Benjamin Netanyahu as well as the&nbsp;country’s President, Isaac Herzog, on Thursday, according to the details of Sunak's schedule shared by 10, Downing Street.

<h2>Rishi Sunak's Israel visit: What does it mean?</h2>

Sunak is set to arrive in Israel right after US President Joe Biden concluded his wartime visit to the country at war with Hamas since October 7. Biden was due to visit the Jordanian capital Amman&nbsp;for a four-way summit with the leaders of Jordan, Egypt and Palestine Authority. But Jordan called off the summit after a hospital in the Gaza Strip was hit by a strike and killed over 500 people, in the deadliest civilian casualty event in the region since the beginning of the war.&nbsp;

Sunak faces the task of pacifying Arabian leaders whose anti-Israel passions are running high, especially since the Gaza hospital's mass casualty event.

Meanwhile, Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu said that Israel would allow Egypt to deliver limited quantities of humanitarian aid to Gaza, a move Cairo later approved from the Rafah border crossing into Gaza.

Downing Street said that Rishi Sunak would push for humanitarian access to Gaza&nbsp;to happen "as soon as possible", an event whose administerial approval has already been given by both Israel and Egypt following US President Joe Biden's visit.

It is noteworthy that the push for humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip was first announced by US State Secretary Antony Blinken on October 17 following days of engagements with leaders in West Asia.&nbsp;

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Today, at our request, the United States and Israel have agreed to develop a plan that will enable humanitarian aid from donor nations and multilateral organizations to reach civilians in Gaza, including the possibility of creating areas to help keep civilians out of harm’s way.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1714076759963136319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"Every civilian death is a tragedy. And too many lives have been lost following Hamas’&nbsp;horrific act of terror," Sunak said in his remarks before taking off from London.

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took off for Israel to hold talks with his Israeli counterpart. After concluding his Israel visit, Sunak is scheduled to travel to other countries in the region for further discussions with other leaders in West Asia, Downing Street announced.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took off for Israel to hold talks with his Israeli counterpart. After concluding his Israel visit, Sunak is scheduled to travel to other countries in the region for further discussions with other leaders in West Asia, Downing Street announced. Downing Street, however, did not specify which other leaders Sunak will engage with. Instead, it mentioned that the UK Prime Minister will travel "to a number of other regional capitals", whose details have not been released due to security reasons. Also read | Spotlight on Washington's waning political capital after Gaza hospital blast sinks Biden's Jordan summit In Israel, Sunak will meet with PM Benjamin Netanyahu as well as the country’s President, Isaac Herzog, on Thursday, according to the details of Sunak's schedule shared by 10, Downing Street. Rishi Sunak's Israel visit: What does it mean? Sunak is set to arrive in Israel right after US President Joe Biden concluded his wartime visit to the country at war with Hamas since October 7. Biden was due to visit the Jordanian capital Amman for a four-way summit with the leaders of Jordan, Egypt and Palestine Authority. But Jordan called off the summit after a hospital in the Gaza Strip was hit by a strike and killed over 500 people, in the deadliest civilian casualty event in the region since the beginning of the war. Sunak faces the task of pacifying Arabian leaders whose anti-Israel passions are running high, especially since the Gaza hospital's mass casualty event. Meanwhile, Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu said that Israel would allow Egypt to deliver limited quantities of humanitarian aid to Gaza, a move Cairo later approved from the Rafah border crossing into Gaza. Downing Street said that Rishi Sunak would push for humanitarian access to Gaza to happen "as soon as possible", an event whose administerial approval has already been given by both Israel and Egypt following US President Joe Biden's visit. It is noteworthy that the push for humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip was first announced by US State Secretary Antony Blinken on October 17 following days of engagements with leaders in West Asia. Today, at our request, the United States and Israel have agreed to develop a plan that will enable humanitarian aid from donor nations and multilateral organizations to reach civilians in Gaza, including the possibility of creating areas to help keep civilians out of harm’s way. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) October 17, 2023 × "Every civilian death is a tragedy. And too many lives have been lost following Hamas’ horrific act of terror," Sunak said in his remarks before taking off from London. 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.

After Biden, Rishi Sunak takes off for wartime Israel visit first, and then wider region

The world is still in shock after the killing of hundreds of people following&nbsp;a blast at the al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. Meanwhile, another hospital in the&nbsp;Gaza Strip is suffering a slow, quieter but equally urgent crisis.&nbsp;

Gaza's only oncology hospital is suffering under the Israeli-imposed "total blockade," and is running out of fuel, water and medicines.

<h2>A 'total blockade'</h2>

Two days into the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Israel imposed a total blockade on the Gaza Strip. This effectively barred essential supplies — including fuel and medicines, from entering the region.

"We are trying to keep the essential services," Dr Subhi&nbsp;Sukeyk, the director of the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, told Al Jazeera, adding that services like radiology had already ground to a halt.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-show-gazas-al-ahli-hospital-before-and-after-rocket-strike-648618">Satellite images show Gaza's Al-Ahli hospital before and after rocket strike</a>

As per Sukeyk, the facility was running perilously low on the fuel needed to keep the hospital's essential services running. She also said that the hospital was running low on medicines needed for chemotherapy treatment.&nbsp;

Gaza's electricity, which is partially reliant on Israeli power lines, had been severed. Furthermore, the local power plant, which is dependent on Israeli fuel imports, was shut down over a week ago due to the siege following the October 7 attack by Hamas, which has already claimed over 1,400 lives.&nbsp;

On the Gazan side, the relentless Israeli airstrikes have further claimed over 3,300 lives — a third of this, as per Al Jazeera, are children.

<h2>Why is the cancer hospital important?</h2>

With the potential closure of the sole cancer hospital, a different kind of devastation is gripping Gaza.&nbsp;

The enclave, as per the Al Jazeera report citing Gaza health ministry data, houses over 9,000 cancer patients.&nbsp;

Operational solely on a local generator, the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital now teeters on the brink of closure. The high number of patients makes the continuity of the hospital's operations a matter of life and death.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-envoy-calls-netanyahu-a-liar-claims-to-have-proof-of-israels-involvement-in-hospital-attack-648272">Gaza hospital attack: Palestinian envoy calls Netanyahu a liar, claims to have proof of Israel involvement</a>

"The intensive care unit needs a lot of electricity to operate, and so do the oxygen machines," stressed Sukeyk, highlighting the critical need to keep the facility operational.

A shutdown would jeopardize the lives of countless patients reliant on the hospital for timely and indispensable cancer treatments.

"Some patients' chemotherapy had to be delayed. But they are due, they must have this treatment to prevent the tumour from spreading to their bodies, and organs," added Sukeyk.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The world is still in shock after the killing of hundreds of people following a blast at the al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. Meanwhile, another hospital in the Gaza Strip is suffering a slow, quieter but equally urgent crisis.

The world is still in shock after the killing of hundreds of people following a blast at the al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. Meanwhile, another hospital in the Gaza Strip is suffering a slow, quieter but equally urgent crisis. Gaza's only oncology hospital is suffering under the Israeli-imposed "total blockade," and is running out of fuel, water and medicines. A 'total blockade' Two days into the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Israel imposed a total blockade on the Gaza Strip. This effectively barred essential supplies — including fuel and medicines, from entering the region. "We are trying to keep the essential services," Dr Subhi Sukeyk, the director of the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, told Al Jazeera, adding that services like radiology had already ground to a halt. Also read | Satellite images show Gaza's Al-Ahli hospital before and after rocket strike As per Sukeyk, the facility was running perilously low on the fuel needed to keep the hospital's essential services running. She also said that the hospital was running low on medicines needed for chemotherapy treatment. Gaza's electricity, which is partially reliant on Israeli power lines, had been severed. Furthermore, the local power plant, which is dependent on Israeli fuel imports, was shut down over a week ago due to the siege following the October 7 attack by Hamas, which has already claimed over 1,400 lives. On the Gazan side, the relentless Israeli airstrikes have further claimed over 3,300 lives — a third of this, as per Al Jazeera, are children. Why is the cancer hospital important? With the potential closure of the sole cancer hospital, a different kind of devastation is gripping Gaza. The enclave, as per the Al Jazeera report citing Gaza health ministry data, houses over 9,000 cancer patients. Operational solely on a local generator, the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital now teeters on the brink of closure. The high number of patients makes the continuity of the hospital's operations a matter of life and death. Also read | Gaza hospital attack: Palestinian envoy calls Netanyahu a liar, claims to have proof of Israel involvement "The intensive care unit needs a lot of electricity to operate, and so do the oxygen machines," stressed Sukeyk, highlighting the critical need to keep the facility operational. A shutdown would jeopardize the lives of countless patients reliant on the hospital for timely and indispensable cancer treatments. "Some patients' chemotherapy had to be delayed. But they are due, they must have this treatment to prevent the tumour from spreading to their bodies, and organs," added Sukeyk. (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.

Fuel and medicines dwindle as Gaza's only cancer hospital bears the brunt of Israeli blockade: Report

The United Nations Security Council on Monday (Oct 16) rejected a Russian resolution that called for "an immediate ceasefire" in Gaza. The fifteen-member Security Council rejected Russia's resolution with six abstentions, four votes against the resolution and five votes in favour.

The countries against the resolution cited Russia's failure to condemn the acts of terror by Hamas and Moscow's refusal to single out the Gaza-based group for its attack on Israel that has killed at least 1,400 people.

<h2>Sequence of events</h2>

The UN Security Council convened to discuss 'Situation in Middle East, including the Palestinian question'. Prior to the UNSC meet, the Russian mission in the United Nations had distributed the draft resolution copies whose text called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution&nbsp;condemned "all acts of terror", but did not mention Hamas.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-ambassador-to-un-highlights-indias-exclusion-from-global-decision-making-calls-for-unsc-reforms-585988">Indian ambassador to UN highlights India's exclusion from global decision-making, calls for UNSC reforms</a>

Brazil, the president of UN Security Council this month, had put into discussion another draft resolution that condemned "shameful terrorist acts by Hamas".&nbsp;

But shortly after the council convened on Monday, the United Arab Emirates — also a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8MaAsrvQ70s">signatory of Abraham Accords</a> with Israel — intervened to prevent a potential showdown between two resolutions. The Council reconvened after closed-door consultations, following which Russia presented its resolution.

According to the council proceedings seen by WION, the second resolution proposed by Brazil that condemned Hamas appeared to have broader support as reflected in the post-vote statements of the member states. It, however,&nbsp;did not go to vote.

<h2>How Russian resolution for ceasefire failed to get through?</h2>

The Russian representative Vassily Nebenzia presented the resolution by stating that Moscow "condemns the deaths of Israeli civilians as well as the civilians in the Gaza strip. We condemn all violence and all terrorist attacks." 
 
The vote by show of hands in the Council resulted in the rejection of the Russian resolution.&nbsp;

Five countries, including China, voted in favour of the resolution.

Four countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates and France, voted against the resolution. There were six abstentions in total.

The United States representative Linda Thomas-Greenfield claimed that Russia brought up the resolution without due consultations with the member states. "By failing to condemn Hamas, Russia is giving cover to a terrorist group that brutalises innocent civilians."

The United Kingdom&nbsp;representative Barbara Woodward said that the Russian resolution failed because it did not condemn "terrorist attacks by Hamas".

The representative of the United Arab Emirates Lana Nusseibeh, who supported Russian resolution, called out "unjustifiable Hamas attacks on 7th October" but said that Israel's demand for over a million Gazans to shift from north to south is "unjustifiable and unmetable."

<h2>Ceasefire resolution leads to Israel-Palestine showdown in UNSC</h2>

Israel's Gilad Erdan said the Security Council, which has not adopted a resolution on the situation in Israel and the Palestinian territories since 2016, stood at "one of its most pivotal crossroads" since its founding.

"Will the council support the fight for civilisation? or will it incentivise the genocide of Jihadists who aim to murder all the infidels?," he said.

"For a body dedicated to security, this shouldn't even be a question."&nbsp;

"The first step this council must take before any calls for aid, calm or restraint is to designate Hamas as the murderous terror organisation that it is."

Israeli representative described Hamas' stated goals against Israel as "Hitler's Mein Kampf on steroids".

Palestinian ambassador Riyad Mansour said the council had a moral duty to act in a bid to restrain an Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip he said was claiming 12 lives every hour.

"What is happening in Gaza is not a military operation. It is a full scale assault against our people. It is massacre&nbsp;against innocent civilians."

Israel has cut off supplies of water and power to the isolated Gaza strip, and warned more than a million people to leave the north of the densely populated landlocked region.

The UN has warned that the&nbsp;Gaza Strip faces an "unprecedented human catastrophe" if water and other vital supplies are not restored.

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The United Nations Security Council on Monday (Oct 16) rejected a Russian resolution that called for "an immediate ceasefire" in Gaza. The fifteen-member Security Council rejected Russia's resolution with six abstentions, four votes against the resolution and five votes in favour.

The United Nations Security Council on Monday (Oct 16) rejected a Russian resolution that called for "an immediate ceasefire" in Gaza. The fifteen-member Security Council rejected Russia's resolution with six abstentions, four votes against the resolution and five votes in favour. The countries against the resolution cited Russia's failure to condemn the acts of terror by Hamas and Moscow's refusal to single out the Gaza-based group for its attack on Israel that has killed at least 1,400 people. Sequence of events The UN Security Council convened to discuss 'Situation in Middle East, including the Palestinian question'. Prior to the UNSC meet, the Russian mission in the United Nations had distributed the draft resolution copies whose text called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution condemned "all acts of terror", but did not mention Hamas. Also read | Indian ambassador to UN highlights India's exclusion from global decision-making, calls for UNSC reforms Brazil, the president of UN Security Council this month, had put into discussion another draft resolution that condemned "shameful terrorist acts by Hamas". But shortly after the council convened on Monday, the United Arab Emirates — also a signatory of Abraham Accords with Israel — intervened to prevent a potential showdown between two resolutions. The Council reconvened after closed-door consultations, following which Russia presented its resolution. According to the council proceedings seen by WION, the second resolution proposed by Brazil that condemned Hamas appeared to have broader support as reflected in the post-vote statements of the member states. It, however, did not go to vote. How Russian resolution for ceasefire failed to get through? The Russian representative Vassily Nebenzia presented the resolution by stating that Moscow "condemns the deaths of Israeli civilians as well as the civilians in the Gaza strip. We condemn all violence and all terrorist attacks." The vote by show of hands in the Council resulted in the rejection of the Russian resolution. Five countries, including China, voted in favour of the resolution. Four countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates and France, voted against the resolution. There were six abstentions in total. The United States representative Linda Thomas-Greenfield claimed that Russia brought up the resolution without due consultations with the member states. "By failing to condemn Hamas, Russia is giving cover to a terrorist group that brutalises innocent civilians." The United Kingdom representative Barbara Woodward said that the Russian resolution failed because it did not condemn "terrorist attacks by Hamas". The representative of the United Arab Emirates Lana Nusseibeh, who supported Russian resolution, called out "unjustifiable Hamas attacks on 7th October" but said that Israel's demand for over a million Gazans to shift from north to south is "unjustifiable and unmetable." Ceasefire resolution leads to Israel-Palestine showdown in UNSC Israel's Gilad Erdan said the Security Council, which has not adopted a resolution on the situation in Israel and the Palestinian territories since 2016, stood at "one of its most pivotal crossroads" since its founding. "Will the council support the fight for civilisation? or will it incentivise the genocide of Jihadists who aim to murder all the infidels?," he said. "For a body dedicated to security, this shouldn't even be a question." "The first step this council must take before any calls for aid, calm or restraint is to designate Hamas as the murderous terror organisation that it is." Israeli representative described Hamas' stated goals against Israel as "Hitler's Mein Kampf on steroids". Palestinian ambassador Riyad Mansour said the council had a moral duty to act in a bid to restrain an Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip he said was claiming 12 lives every hour. "What is happening in Gaza is not a military operation. It is a full scale assault against our people. It is massacre against innocent civilians." Israel has cut off supplies of water and power to the isolated Gaza strip, and warned more than a million people to leave the north of the densely populated landlocked region. The UN has warned that the Gaza Strip faces an "unprecedented human catastrophe" if water and other vital supplies are not restored. 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-Hamas war: Inside UN Security Council meet that rejected Russia's resolution for ceasefire

TikTok says it has assigned more people to combat disinformation about the ongoing Israel-Hamas war on the platform. This move by the popular short video format application comes after a warning by the European Union.

<h2>Mobilisation of 'significant resources'</h2>

In a statement, the company said, that&nbsp;it&nbsp;had "immediately mobilised significant resources and personnel to help maintain the safety of our community and integrity of our platform."

The ByteDance-owned company also said that it has removed 500,000 videos and closed 8,000 live streams in the region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-warns-tiktok-to-tackle-spread-of-disinformation-amid-israel-hamas-conflict-646011">EU warns TikTok to tackle spread of disinformation amid Israel-Hamas conflict</a>

TikTok insisted that "it stands against terrorism," and&nbsp;that the company remains "focused on supporting free expression, upholding our commitment to human rights, and protecting our platform during the Israel-Hamas war".

"We are shocked and appalled by the horrific acts of terror in Israel last week."

"We are also deeply saddened by the intensifying humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. Our hearts break for everyone who has been affected," added the popular video app.

<h2>Actions taken by TikTok</h2>

TikTok said that it has launched a command centre to monitor content about the latest conflict. The company, as per The Guardian, has also updated its automated detection systems to look for graphic and violent content.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-iran-threatens-to-intervene-if-israel-doesnt-stops-attacking-gaza-says-report-647270">Israel vs Hamas: Iran threatens to intervene if Israel doesn’t stop attacking Gaza, says report</a>

It has also appointed a number of Arabic and Hebrew-speaking moderators, and has restricted live broadcasts due to the "heightened safety risk in the context of the current hostage situation."

<h2>EU warning</h2>

On Thursday (Oct 12) the European Union warned TikTok about the surge of disinformation and gave the social media platform a 24-hour ultimatum to provide details of the measures it will take to counter this spread of misinformation.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TikTok?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TikTok</a> has a particular obligation to protect children &amp; teenagers from violent content &amp; terrorist propaganda —as well as death challenges &amp; potentially life-threatening content.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DSA</a> sets out very clear obligations TikTok must comply with. 
 
Letter to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew⤵️ <a href="https://t.co/J1tpVzXaYR">pic.twitter.com/J1tpVzXaYR</a>
— Thierry Breton (@ThierryBreton) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThierryBreton/status/1712472108222329056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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"Given that your platform is extensively used by children and teenagers, you have a particular obligation to protect them from violent content depicting hostage-taking and other graphic videos which are reportedly widely circulating on your platform, without appropriate safeguards," EU's industry chief Thierry Breton said in a letter to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew.

(With inputs from agencies)

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TikTok says it has assigned more people to combat disinformation about the ongoing Israel-Hamas war on the platform. This move by the popular short video format application comes after a warning by the European Union.

TikTok says it has assigned more people to combat disinformation about the ongoing Israel-Hamas war on the platform. This move by the popular short video format application comes after a warning by the European Union. Mobilisation of 'significant resources' In a statement, the company said, that it had "immediately mobilised significant resources and personnel to help maintain the safety of our community and integrity of our platform." The ByteDance-owned company also said that it has removed 500,000 videos and closed 8,000 live streams in the region. Also read | EU warns TikTok to tackle spread of disinformation amid Israel-Hamas conflict TikTok insisted that "it stands against terrorism," and that the company remains "focused on supporting free expression, upholding our commitment to human rights, and protecting our platform during the Israel-Hamas war". "We are shocked and appalled by the horrific acts of terror in Israel last week." "We are also deeply saddened by the intensifying humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. Our hearts break for everyone who has been affected," added the popular video app. Actions taken by TikTok TikTok said that it has launched a command centre to monitor content about the latest conflict. The company, as per The Guardian, has also updated its automated detection systems to look for graphic and violent content. Also read | Israel vs Hamas: Iran threatens to intervene if Israel doesn’t stop attacking Gaza, says report It has also appointed a number of Arabic and Hebrew-speaking moderators, and has restricted live broadcasts due to the "heightened safety risk in the context of the current hostage situation." EU warning On Thursday (Oct 12) the European Union warned TikTok about the surge of disinformation and gave the social media platform a 24-hour ultimatum to provide details of the measures it will take to counter this spread of misinformation. #TikTok has a particular obligation to protect children & teenagers from violent content & terrorist propaganda —as well as death challenges & potentially life-threatening content.#DSA sets out very clear obligations TikTok must comply with. Letter to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew⤵️ pic.twitter.com/J1tpVzXaYR — Thierry Breton (@ThierryBreton) October 12, 2023 × "Given that your platform is extensively used by children and teenagers, you have a particular obligation to protect them from violent content depicting hostage-taking and other graphic videos which are reportedly widely circulating on your platform, without appropriate safeguards," EU's industry chief Thierry Breton said in a letter to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew. (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.

TikTok 'stands against terrorism,' launches measures to control misinformation amid Israel-Hamas war

The Israel-Hamas war isn't just limited to Israel or Gaza. The flames could engulf several other nations. The Middle East war would widen beyond Israel and Hamas.

Israel-Palestine war: Could the Middle East war widen beyond Israel and Hamas

The Israeli Defence Force (IDF) has given Gaza citizens three hours to evacuate the northern region as it prepares for an all-out coordinated attack against Hamas terrorists.

In a post on X on Sunday (Oct 15), the IDF said that no military activity would occur from 10 am&nbsp;to 1 pm (local time) and asked 1.1 million people living in Northern Gaza to use the time to evacuate.

"Residents of Gaza City and northern Gaza, in the past days, we've urged you to relocate to the southern area for your safety. We want to inform you that the IDF will not carry out any operations along this route from 10 pm to 1 pm," the Israeli military said.

"During this window, please take the opportunity to move southward from northern Gaza," it said.

The announcement comes a day after Israel pummelled northern Gaza with fresh air strikes on Saturday.

<h2>Gaza besieged </h2>

Israel had already blocked northern Gaza, cutting off food, water, electricity, medical supplies and other essentials including electricity.

UN chief Antonio Guterres has “been in&nbsp;constant contact with Israeli authorities urging them to avert a humanitarian catastrophe,” a spokesperson for Guterres, Stephen Dujarric told AP.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited troops on the border front line, raising expectations of an imminent invasion.

"Are you ready for what is coming? More is coming," he was heard telling several soldiers on a video released by his office, according to AFP news agency.

Meanwhile, the United States has deployed a second aircraft carrier near Israel to "deter hostile actions against Israel", Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin said.

On Saturday. the World Health Organisation said that forcing thousands of hospital patients to evacuate to already overflowing hospitals in the southern Gaza Strip could be "tantamount to a death sentence".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/butcher-of-khan-yunis-yahya-sinwar-is-our-osama-bin-laden-israel-647098">'Butcher of Khan yunis' Yahya Sinwar is our Osama bin Laden: Israel</a>

Exiled Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh accused Israel on Saturday of committing "war crimes" in Gaza but he ruled out any "displacement" of Gazans, including to Egypt.

<h2>Biden’s call</h2>

In a call Saturday, US President Joe Biden told Netanyahu the United States was working with the United Nations, Egypt, Jordan and others in the region "to ensure innocent civilians have access to water, food, and medical care".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sends-second-aircraft-carrier-to-support-israel-647006">US deploys second aircraft carrier USS Eisenhower to deter ‘hostile’ nations</a>

Biden also spoke with Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas and pledged "full support" to the Palestinian Authority in its efforts to bring humanitarian assistance to Palestinians, "particularly in Gaza," according to the White House.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Israeli Defence Force (IDF) has given Gaza citizens three hours to evacuate the northern region as it prepares for an all-out coordinated attack against Hamas terrorists.

The Israeli Defence Force (IDF) has given Gaza citizens three hours to evacuate the northern region as it prepares for an all-out coordinated attack against Hamas terrorists. In a post on X on Sunday (Oct 15), the IDF said that no military activity would occur from 10 am to 1 pm (local time) and asked 1.1 million people living in Northern Gaza to use the time to evacuate. "Residents of Gaza City and northern Gaza, in the past days, we've urged you to relocate to the southern area for your safety. We want to inform you that the IDF will not carry out any operations along this route from 10 pm to 1 pm," the Israeli military said. "During this window, please take the opportunity to move southward from northern Gaza," it said. The announcement comes a day after Israel pummelled northern Gaza with fresh air strikes on Saturday. Gaza besieged Israel had already blocked northern Gaza, cutting off food, water, electricity, medical supplies and other essentials including electricity. UN chief Antonio Guterres has “been in constant contact with Israeli authorities urging them to avert a humanitarian catastrophe,” a spokesperson for Guterres, Stephen Dujarric told AP. Earlier in the day, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited troops on the border front line, raising expectations of an imminent invasion. "Are you ready for what is coming? More is coming," he was heard telling several soldiers on a video released by his office, according to AFP news agency. Meanwhile, the United States has deployed a second aircraft carrier near Israel to "deter hostile actions against Israel", Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin said. On Saturday. the World Health Organisation said that forcing thousands of hospital patients to evacuate to already overflowing hospitals in the southern Gaza Strip could be "tantamount to a death sentence". Also read | 'Butcher of Khan yunis' Yahya Sinwar is our Osama bin Laden: Israel Exiled Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh accused Israel on Saturday of committing "war crimes" in Gaza but he ruled out any "displacement" of Gazans, including to Egypt. Biden’s call In a call Saturday, US President Joe Biden told Netanyahu the United States was working with the United Nations, Egypt, Jordan and others in the region "to ensure innocent civilians have access to water, food, and medical care". Also read | US deploys second aircraft carrier USS Eisenhower to deter ‘hostile’ nations Biden also spoke with Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas and pledged "full support" to the Palestinian Authority in its efforts to bring humanitarian assistance to Palestinians, "particularly in Gaza," according to the White House. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel's military gives civilians three-hour deadline to evacuate northern Gaza amidst impending attack

Amid the onslaught of stories of death, deception and brutalities by Hamas terrorists in Israel, this journalist texted one of the survivors of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-israelis-massacred-at-music-festival-644670">Re'im music festival massacre</a>. The event targeted by Hamas on October 7 was an open-air psychedelic trance festival, organised to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Sukkot, near the Re'im kibbutz area close to Gaza Strip.

According to eyewitnesses, the terrorists emerged from pickup trucks bearing Hamas military markings. Some landed on paragliders.&nbsp;

In the indiscriminate shooting that followed, about 260 were killed.&nbsp;

Young women were sexually assaulted. Several kidnapped.

In the visuals released online later by Hamas-affiliated social media accounts, one could see women paraded through streets, blood streaming down from between their legs.

"Hamas must be erased from this world. Since the end of Nazism, there was never a thing as evil as them," Guy Danon, one of the survivors of the music festival massacre, told me over Instagram.&nbsp;

"Palestine deserves to live peacefully and free from Hamas," Danon added.&nbsp;

Hours before texting Danon, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-teen-survives-hamas-gunfire-after-parents-die-shielding-him-with-their-bodies-645633">a story of Israeli musician parents killed while shielding their son from Hamas' onslaught</a>, was among the most read news items on the WION website.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/12/385678-untitled-design-2023-10-12t065244125.png?imwidth=1920" />

Shlomi Mathias (R) plays the guitar as his wife, Debbie ‘Shahar’ Mathias, laughs next to him. The two died while shielding their son Rotem (16) from Hamas' gunfire | AP 
 
They were the family of a music teacher father and singer-songwriter mother, who had plans to attend a Bruno Mars concert in Tel Aviv the following day. The 16-year-old Rotem Mathias survived as his parents' bodies acted as shields to keep him alive amid a barrage of gunfire from Hamas terrorists.

These stories of survival reflect how the legitimate cause of a sovereign Palestinian homeland is losing the perception battle, courtesy the indiscriminate onslaught by Hamas on innocent Israeli civilians, from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-claims-of-beheaded-israeli-babies-at-massacre-site-create-shockwaves-645154">babies to youngsters</a> to the elderly.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-claims-of-beheaded-israeli-babies-at-massacre-site-create-shockwaves-645154">Israel Vs Hamas: Reports of Israeli babies being massacred create shockwaves</a>

The retaliation from Israel has been deemed as disproportionate by many in and beyond West Asia, with scores of civilians in Gaza becoming nothing but collateral damage in hardliner Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's campaign to decimate Hamas.&nbsp;

As India has often said, albeit in a different context related to its persistent tensions with Pakistan, terror and talks cannot occur side by side. Hamas, after morphing itself from a quasi-militant-political outfit into a full-fledged terror machine, is simply settling the score of an ethno-religious rivalry with a territorially assertive Jewish state.&nbsp;

As an outgrowth of Muslim Brotherhood's Palestinian branch, Hamas has been the de-facto governing body in the Gaza Strip since 2007 when it ousted the Palestinian Authority from power. Since then, a total of seven reconciliation efforts have failed. Gaza faces blockade from both Israel and Egypt due to purported security concerns.

This is exactly why Palestinians should decouple the movement for homeland from terrorism perpetrated by the likes of Hamas.

For the state of Palestine to exist, the proxies of terror such as Hamas, Palestine Islamic Jihad and Hezbollah must be de-legitimised, dismantled and decimated.&nbsp;

The latter two actions -- dismantling and decimation -- may partly occur by the actions of its primary victim (which in this case is Israel) but the act of de-legitimising terror for the pursuance of territorial sovereignty must take place from the side of Palestinians themselves.&nbsp;

While the Arab Spring of 2010s inspired pro-democracy demonstrations in both the West Bank and Gaza by Palestinians fed up with the years-long strife between Hamas and Fatah factions, the latter was virtually expelled from Gaza after Hamas ousted them in 2007 in a virtual coup.&nbsp;

In March 2018, Hamas was accused by Palestinian Authority of leading an assassination attempt on the then-Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah.&nbsp;

With Hamas occupying the centre of Israel-Palestine conflict, the absence of a political process to achieve a viable two-state solution continues to be the biggest impediment to the peaceful settlement of the Palestine question.&nbsp;

For the scope of that settlement to emerge, Israel must win its war against terror in Gaza.

One may call Israel an occupying force, and list out all the occasions when its security forces targeted innocent Palestinian civilians. But all that amounted to nothing on a Saturday morning of mayhem, when visuals of youth running helter-skelter from the music festival amid the reign of terror shook the conscience of the world.

No Hamas, you don't attack a music festival to get support for your cause. You don't destroy unarmed families cowering in fear to legitimise your methods.

<img alt="Israel Vs Hamas" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dc3e419c-7427-4328-bb91-8a768e7dfb26" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-10-13T204713.864.png" />

Children watch as civil defence responders search for victims in the rubble of a building after an Israeli air strike in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on October 13, 2023 | AFP

Because today's internet-mediated wars are not just about weapons. It's about perception.

And you, Hamas, have destroyed the aspirations of millions of Palestinians, and legitimised the ongoing counter-assault by Israel, giving it a free cheque in the eyes of international community, to avenge your blood-thirsty rampage.

October 7 was your miscalculation.&nbsp;

It might end your history as a player in the Palestinian question.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;

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Amid the onslaught of stories of death, deception and brutalities by Hamas terrorists in Israel, this journalist texted one of the survivors of the Re'im music festival massacre.

Amid the onslaught of stories of death, deception and brutalities by Hamas terrorists in Israel, this journalist texted one of the survivors of the Re'im music festival massacre. The event targeted by Hamas on October 7 was an open-air psychedelic trance festival, organised to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Sukkot, near the Re'im kibbutz area close to Gaza Strip. According to eyewitnesses, the terrorists emerged from pickup trucks bearing Hamas military markings. Some landed on paragliders. In the indiscriminate shooting that followed, about 260 were killed. Young women were sexually assaulted. Several kidnapped. In the visuals released online later by Hamas-affiliated social media accounts, one could see women paraded through streets, blood streaming down from between their legs. "Hamas must be erased from this world. Since the end of Nazism, there was never a thing as evil as them," Guy Danon, one of the survivors of the music festival massacre, told me over Instagram. "Palestine deserves to live peacefully and free from Hamas," Danon added. Hours before texting Danon, a story of Israeli musician parents killed while shielding their son from Hamas' onslaught, was among the most read news items on the WION website. Shlomi Mathias (R) plays the guitar as his wife, Debbie ‘Shahar’ Mathias, laughs next to him. The two died while shielding their son Rotem (16) from Hamas' gunfire | AP They were the family of a music teacher father and singer-songwriter mother, who had plans to attend a Bruno Mars concert in Tel Aviv the following day. The 16-year-old Rotem Mathias survived as his parents' bodies acted as shields to keep him alive amid a barrage of gunfire from Hamas terrorists. These stories of survival reflect how the legitimate cause of a sovereign Palestinian homeland is losing the perception battle, courtesy the indiscriminate onslaught by Hamas on innocent Israeli civilians, from babies to youngsters to the elderly. Also read | Israel Vs Hamas: Reports of Israeli babies being massacred create shockwaves The retaliation from Israel has been deemed as disproportionate by many in and beyond West Asia, with scores of civilians in Gaza becoming nothing but collateral damage in hardliner Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's campaign to decimate Hamas. As India has often said, albeit in a different context related to its persistent tensions with Pakistan, terror and talks cannot occur side by side. Hamas, after morphing itself from a quasi-militant-political outfit into a full-fledged terror machine, is simply settling the score of an ethno-religious rivalry with a territorially assertive Jewish state. As an outgrowth of Muslim Brotherhood's Palestinian branch, Hamas has been the de-facto governing body in the Gaza Strip since 2007 when it ousted the Palestinian Authority from power. Since then, a total of seven reconciliation efforts have failed. Gaza faces blockade from both Israel and Egypt due to purported security concerns. This is exactly why Palestinians should decouple the movement for homeland from terrorism perpetrated by the likes of Hamas. For the state of Palestine to exist, the proxies of terror such as Hamas, Palestine Islamic Jihad and Hezbollah must be de-legitimised, dismantled and decimated. The latter two actions -- dismantling and decimation -- may partly occur by the actions of its primary victim (which in this case is Israel) but the act of de-legitimising terror for the pursuance of territorial sovereignty must take place from the side of Palestinians themselves. While the Arab Spring of 2010s inspired pro-democracy demonstrations in both the West Bank and Gaza by Palestinians fed up with the years-long strife between Hamas and Fatah factions, the latter was virtually expelled from Gaza after Hamas ousted them in 2007 in a virtual coup. In March 2018, Hamas was accused by Palestinian Authority of leading an assassination attempt on the then-Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah. With Hamas occupying the centre of Israel-Palestine conflict, the absence of a political process to achieve a viable two-state solution continues to be the biggest impediment to the peaceful settlement of the Palestine question. For the scope of that settlement to emerge, Israel must win its war against terror in Gaza. One may call Israel an occupying force, and list out all the occasions when its security forces targeted innocent Palestinian civilians. But all that amounted to nothing on a Saturday morning of mayhem, when visuals of youth running helter-skelter from the music festival amid the reign of terror shook the conscience of the world. No Hamas, you don't attack a music festival to get support for your cause. You don't destroy unarmed families cowering in fear to legitimise your methods. Children watch as civil defence responders search for victims in the rubble of a building after an Israeli air strike in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on October 13, 2023 | AFP Because today's internet-mediated wars are not just about weapons. It's about perception. And you, Hamas, have destroyed the aspirations of millions of Palestinians, and legitimised the ongoing counter-assault by Israel, giving it a free cheque in the eyes of international community, to avenge your blood-thirsty rampage. October 7 was your miscalculation. It might end your history as a player in the Palestinian question. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) 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.

No Hamas, you don't attack a music fest: Palestinians lost perception war with reign of terror

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in his latest address to the nation said: "We will eliminate Hamas, we will defeat Hamas. It will take time."

"This is just the beginning. Our enemies have only just begun to pay the price but I won't go into detail," said Netanyahu as the war between Hamas and Israel entered the seventh day on Saturday, October 14.&nbsp;

<h2>IDF are&nbsp;'fighting like lions': Netanyahu&nbsp;</h2>

Netanyahu described Israel's retaliatory response as 'fight for the homeland', adding that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are&nbsp;"fighting like lions.”

"Much more will be told of the heroism of our people in the dark days of deep pain of that cursed Shabbat — stories that will be etched into Israel’s identity," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/true-humanitarian-crisis-gazans-walk-30-km-south-many-sheltering-at-al-shifa-hospital-reluctant-to-move-646463">Gaza student speaks to WION: People walking 30km to escape Israel attack, many camping at hospital</a>

"We will never forget the atrocities that our enemies carried out," he says, "and we will never forgive. And we will never let the world, or anyone, forget these atrocities, [of a kind] that were not done to the Jewish people in many decades."

Reflecting on cumulative response of the West to&nbsp;the ongoing state of war in Israel, Netanyahu said that&nbsp;Israel is garnering "immense international support" in its fights against Hamas.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Israelis transitioning from grief to action and resilience

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"We are ensuring the continuation of the war, with more ammunition and weaponry coming to Israel," he said.

"We will destroy Hamas, and we will win. It will take time," Netanyahu says, "but we will end this war stronger than ever."

<h2>Wartime fissures emerging in Israel's 'unity government'?</h2>

Shortly after Netanyahu's address, Opposition chairman Yair Lapid, who is also the part of Israel's 'unity government', slammed Netanyahu for the purported absence of substance in his&nbsp;primetime address.

"It is not unacceptable for the prime minister of Israel to send an entire country into a whirlwind of panic while waiting for his statement on Friday night during a time of emergency and then not say anything new either about the families of the abductees, not about the northern front, not about evacuation," Lapid wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

"Such statements must not made by a prime minister unless he has new information to bring to his people and the country," he added.

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Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in his latest address to the nation said: "We will eliminate Hamas, we will defeat Hamas. It will take time." "This is just the beginning.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in his latest address to the nation said: "We will eliminate Hamas, we will defeat Hamas. It will take time." "This is just the beginning. Our enemies have only just begun to pay the price but I won't go into detail," said Netanyahu as the war between Hamas and Israel entered the seventh day on Saturday, October 14. IDF are 'fighting like lions': Netanyahu Netanyahu described Israel's retaliatory response as 'fight for the homeland', adding that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are "fighting like lions.” "Much more will be told of the heroism of our people in the dark days of deep pain of that cursed Shabbat — stories that will be etched into Israel’s identity," he said. Also read | Gaza student speaks to WION: People walking 30km to escape Israel attack, many camping at hospital "We will never forget the atrocities that our enemies carried out," he says, "and we will never forgive. And we will never let the world, or anyone, forget these atrocities, [of a kind] that were not done to the Jewish people in many decades." Reflecting on cumulative response of the West to the ongoing state of war in Israel, Netanyahu said that Israel is garnering "immense international support" in its fights against Hamas. Also watch | Israelis transitioning from grief to action and resilience × "We are ensuring the continuation of the war, with more ammunition and weaponry coming to Israel," he said. "We will destroy Hamas, and we will win. It will take time," Netanyahu says, "but we will end this war stronger than ever." Wartime fissures emerging in Israel's 'unity government'? Shortly after Netanyahu's address, Opposition chairman Yair Lapid, who is also the part of Israel's 'unity government', slammed Netanyahu for the purported absence of substance in his primetime address. "It is not unacceptable for the prime minister of Israel to send an entire country into a whirlwind of panic while waiting for his statement on Friday night during a time of emergency and then not say anything new either about the families of the abductees, not about the northern front, not about evacuation," Lapid wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. "Such statements must not made by a prime minister unless he has new information to bring to his people and the country," he added. 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-Hamas war: As IDF tanks move towards Gaza, Netanyahu says ‘it will take time’ to defeat Hamas

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.

Hamas on Thursday "firmly" denied involvement in the killing and beheading of infants. Responding to the accusations, a spokesperson for the militant outfit said that allegations were "unethically and unprofessionally adopted by western media outlets."&nbsp;

<h2>Hamas allege media bias</h2>

In a video statement, Basim Naim, an official with Hamas' information office, as quoted by CNN, called on the media "to abide by the journalistic code of ethics".

"We firmly deny these allegations as we reject this media bias, and we call on media to abide by the journalistic code of ethics," said Naim.

Calling Hamas' recent large-scale surprise attack on Israel a "defensive" and "internally Palestinian" operation, the official said that it "targeted only the Israeli military bases and compounds."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/horrible-horrible-images-war-correspondent-stands-by-report-of-beheadings-of-israeli-babies-645754">I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies</a>

Naim further stated that there were explicit directives "from the top commanders of Al Qassam Brigades (Hamas' military wing) to avoid targeting civilians or killing them."

The Hamas spokesperson also commented on the hostages held by the group and said that they will be treated "in accordance with our religious values and the rules of international humanitarian law".&nbsp;As per Israeli authorities, Hamas militants are currently holding as many as 150 people hostage in Gaza.

Naim also claimed that the group was "really worried" about their safety due to Israeli aggression.

"We are really worried that since the Israeli aggression is everywhere in Gaza, they might be the victims of the Israeli army bombardment just like our people," he claimed.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Israel releases photos of babies allegedly murdered by Hamas | Gravitas

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<h2>Israel releases&nbsp;horrifying photos</h2>

This statement by Hamas comes, as on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released "horrifying images" of two babies, their bodies burned beyond recognition and one of an infant's bloodstained body.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

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Images blurred due to their sensitive nature.

These images were shared in an apparent attempt to stoke global anger against the militants who, on October 7th, launched an unprecedented surprise attack on Israel.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who on Thursday reached Israel in a show of solidarity, was shown these pictures.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trigger-warning-israel-pms-x-account-shares-photos-of-babies-allegedly-killed-by-hamas-646017">TRIGGER WARNING: Israel PM's X account shares photos of babies allegedly killed by Hamas</a>

Talking to the press, Blinken&nbsp;said he has seen photographs and videos of a baby riddled with bullets, soldiers beheaded and young people burned alive in their cars or hiding places.

Calling it "simply depravity in the worst imaginable way," the US Secretary of State stated that "Images are worth a thousand words," but that "these images may be worth a million."

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Hamas on Thursday "firmly" denied involvement in the killing and beheading of infants.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Hamas on Thursday "firmly" denied involvement in the killing and beheading of infants. Responding to the accusations, a spokesperson for the militant outfit said that allegations were "unethically and unprofessionally adopted by western media outlets." Hamas allege media bias In a video statement, Basim Naim, an official with Hamas' information office, as quoted by CNN, called on the media "to abide by the journalistic code of ethics". "We firmly deny these allegations as we reject this media bias, and we call on media to abide by the journalistic code of ethics," said Naim. Calling Hamas' recent large-scale surprise attack on Israel a "defensive" and "internally Palestinian" operation, the official said that it "targeted only the Israeli military bases and compounds." Also read | I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies Naim further stated that there were explicit directives "from the top commanders of Al Qassam Brigades (Hamas' military wing) to avoid targeting civilians or killing them." The Hamas spokesperson also commented on the hostages held by the group and said that they will be treated "in accordance with our religious values and the rules of international humanitarian law". As per Israeli authorities, Hamas militants are currently holding as many as 150 people hostage in Gaza. Naim also claimed that the group was "really worried" about their safety due to Israeli aggression. "We are really worried that since the Israeli aggression is everywhere in Gaza, they might be the victims of the Israeli army bombardment just like our people," he claimed. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Israel releases photos of babies allegedly murdered by Hamas | Gravitas Israel releases horrifying photos This statement by Hamas comes, as on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released "horrifying images" of two babies, their bodies burned beyond recognition and one of an infant's bloodstained body. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Images blurred due to their sensitive nature. These images were shared in an apparent attempt to stoke global anger against the militants who, on October 7th, launched an unprecedented surprise attack on Israel. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who on Thursday reached Israel in a show of solidarity, was shown these pictures. Also read | TRIGGER WARNING: Israel PM's X account shares photos of babies allegedly killed by Hamas Talking to the press, Blinken said he has seen photographs and videos of a baby riddled with bullets, soldiers beheaded and young people burned alive in their cars or hiding places. Calling it "simply depravity in the worst imaginable way," the US Secretary of State stated that "Images are worth a thousand words," but that "these images may be worth a million." (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.

Hamas denies involvement in killing and beheading of babies, alleges 'media bias'

The United States and Qatar have reportedly reached an agreement to restrict Iran from accessing the $6 billion transferred recently as part of a deal between Washington and Tehran that led to the release of five imprisoned Americans from Iran last month.

Wally Adeyemo, the deputy treasury secretary, informed House Democrats on Thursday (Oct 12) that Iran would no longer be able to access these funds.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-american-detainees-fly-out-of-iran-in-swap-deal-after-6-billion-unfrozen-637211">US and Iran swap prisoners after Qatar-brokered deal unfreezes $6 billion of Iranian oil money</a>

This development comes amid criticism, primarily from Republicans and former US president Donald Trump, who stated that the Biden administration's move allowed Iran to free up other funds for potential support to Hamas, and enabled the weekend's deadly attack on Israel by the Gaza-based militant group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-americans-freed-by-iran-land-in-us-after-prisoner-swap-deal-report-637522">Five Americans, two Iranians freed in prisoner swap deal land in home countries</a>

While Biden administration has stated that there is no direct evidence of Iranian involvement in Hamas attack on Israel, Tehran's longstanding backing to Hamas as well as Lebanon-based Hezbollah have raised questions on the credibility of Biden administration's clean chit to Iran in relation to the ongoing state of war in Israel.

<h2>What next?</h2>

It remains unclear whether the Biden administration intends to permanently cut off these funds or is taking an interim step to gather more information about Iran's potential connection with Hamas' latest offensive against Israel.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;US unlocks $6 billion for prisoner swap with Iran; US-Iran financial transactions under close watch&nbsp;

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However, the decision is expected to upset Tehran since the prisoner swap process has already concluded.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken did not confirm the denial of access to the funds to Iran. Blinken, however, pointed out that the money transferred to Qatar had not been accessed or spent by Iran.

The money was originally transferred from South Korean banks as part of the prisoner exchange agreement. However, Iran faced difficulties accessing it due to concerns about US sanctions. As part of the deal, the funds were shifted to banks in Qatar to allow Iran to use them.

<h2>What is the bottom-line?</h2>

The latest development reflects a change in the Biden administration's stance after its previous assertions that these funds were not being used by Tehran to support Hamas' &nbsp;attack on Israel.

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The United States and Qatar have reportedly reached an agreement to restrict Iran from accessing the $6 billion transferred recently as part of a deal between Washington and Tehran that led to the release of five imprisoned Americans from Iran last month.

The United States and Qatar have reportedly reached an agreement to restrict Iran from accessing the $6 billion transferred recently as part of a deal between Washington and Tehran that led to the release of five imprisoned Americans from Iran last month. Wally Adeyemo, the deputy treasury secretary, informed House Democrats on Thursday (Oct 12) that Iran would no longer be able to access these funds. Also read | US and Iran swap prisoners after Qatar-brokered deal unfreezes $6 billion of Iranian oil money This development comes amid criticism, primarily from Republicans and former US president Donald Trump, who stated that the Biden administration's move allowed Iran to free up other funds for potential support to Hamas, and enabled the weekend's deadly attack on Israel by the Gaza-based militant group. Also read | Five Americans, two Iranians freed in prisoner swap deal land in home countries While Biden administration has stated that there is no direct evidence of Iranian involvement in Hamas attack on Israel, Tehran's longstanding backing to Hamas as well as Lebanon-based Hezbollah have raised questions on the credibility of Biden administration's clean chit to Iran in relation to the ongoing state of war in Israel. What next? It remains unclear whether the Biden administration intends to permanently cut off these funds or is taking an interim step to gather more information about Iran's potential connection with Hamas' latest offensive against Israel. Also watch | US unlocks $6 billion for prisoner swap with Iran; US-Iran financial transactions under close watch × However, the decision is expected to upset Tehran since the prisoner swap process has already concluded. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken did not confirm the denial of access to the funds to Iran. Blinken, however, pointed out that the money transferred to Qatar had not been accessed or spent by Iran. The money was originally transferred from South Korean banks as part of the prisoner exchange agreement. However, Iran faced difficulties accessing it due to concerns about US sanctions. As part of the deal, the funds were shifted to banks in Qatar to allow Iran to use them. What is the bottom-line? The latest development reflects a change in the Biden administration's stance after its previous assertions that these funds were not being used by Tehran to support Hamas' attack on Israel. 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.

Support to Hamas feared? US blocks Iran's access to $6bn from prisoner swap deal

North Korea claimed that the media reports of its weapons being used by Hamas in its attack against Israel are false.&nbsp;

On Friday (Oct 13), the nation also alleged that the narratives have been planted by the United States in a bid to divert its blame to a third country.

<h2>Blame-shifting</h2>

North Korea's official news broadcaster KCNA on Friday called reports of the nation's weapons being in the hands of Hamas militants "groundless and false rumour(s)".

"The US administration's reptile press bodies and quasi-experts are spreading a groundless and false rumour that 'North Korea's weapons' seemed to be used for the attack on Israel," it said, as reported by Reuters.

As per the broadcaster, such reports were "a bid to shift the blame," by what it labelled "the empire of evil".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/horrible-horrible-images-war-correspondent-stands-by-report-of-beheadings-of-israeli-babies-645754">I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies</a>

"It is nothing but a bid to shift the blame for the Middle East crisis caused by its wrong hegemonic policy onto a third country and thus evade the international criticism focused on the empire of evil."

KCNA said that in addition to the more than a year-long Ukraine-Russia crisis, the Israel-Hamas conflict has emerged as another "huge strategic burden" for Washington. It also remarked that the crises showed the limitations of the US strategy for hegemony and the nation's goal of becoming the global superpower.

Earlier this week, the North Korean state media had blamed Israel for causing bloodshed in Gaza.

<h2>North Korea weapons and the Hamas&nbsp;</h2>

Over the past few days, media reports have alleged that Hamas militants may have used North Korean weapons in their unprecedented surprise attack on Israel.&nbsp;

Radio Free Asia, a US-funded news service, earlier this week reported that footage of Palestinian fighters showed what appeared to be a rocket launcher suspected to be from North Korea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-studies-israel-hamas-war-to-learn-lessons-avoid-similar-conflict-with-china-645683">Taiwan studies Israel-Hamas war to learn lessons, avoid similar conflict with China</a>

Another news service, the US government-owned Voice of America, also cited an intelligence expert to say that some weapons used by Hamas likely originated from North Korea.

<h2>Is there any proof of this?</h2>

Speaking to the press on Thursday, US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said he could not confirm whether the reports about the origins of the rockets being used by Hamas were true.

Furthermore, he emphasised that the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict would not affect the United States' security strategy in the world, including the Korean peninsula.

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korea claimed that the media reports of its weapons being used by Hamas in its attack against Israel are false. On Friday (Oct 13), the nation also alleged that the narratives have been planted by the United States in a bid to divert its blame to a third country.

North Korea claimed that the media reports of its weapons being used by Hamas in its attack against Israel are false. On Friday (Oct 13), the nation also alleged that the narratives have been planted by the United States in a bid to divert its blame to a third country. Blame-shifting North Korea's official news broadcaster KCNA on Friday called reports of the nation's weapons being in the hands of Hamas militants "groundless and false rumour(s)". "The US administration's reptile press bodies and quasi-experts are spreading a groundless and false rumour that 'North Korea's weapons' seemed to be used for the attack on Israel," it said, as reported by Reuters. As per the broadcaster, such reports were "a bid to shift the blame," by what it labelled "the empire of evil". Also read | I wish that it wasn't true: War correspondent stands by report of beheadings of Israeli babies "It is nothing but a bid to shift the blame for the Middle East crisis caused by its wrong hegemonic policy onto a third country and thus evade the international criticism focused on the empire of evil." KCNA said that in addition to the more than a year-long Ukraine-Russia crisis, the Israel-Hamas conflict has emerged as another "huge strategic burden" for Washington. It also remarked that the crises showed the limitations of the US strategy for hegemony and the nation's goal of becoming the global superpower. Earlier this week, the North Korean state media had blamed Israel for causing bloodshed in Gaza. North Korea weapons and the Hamas Over the past few days, media reports have alleged that Hamas militants may have used North Korean weapons in their unprecedented surprise attack on Israel. Radio Free Asia, a US-funded news service, earlier this week reported that footage of Palestinian fighters showed what appeared to be a rocket launcher suspected to be from North Korea. Also read | Taiwan studies Israel-Hamas war to learn lessons, avoid similar conflict with China Another news service, the US government-owned Voice of America, also cited an intelligence expert to say that some weapons used by Hamas likely originated from North Korea. Is there any proof of this? Speaking to the press on Thursday, US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said he could not confirm whether the reports about the origins of the rockets being used by Hamas were true. Furthermore, he emphasised that the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict would not affect the United States' security strategy in the world, including the Korean peninsula. (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.

North Korea denies weapon supply to Hamas, calls US 'empire of evil' of blame-shifting

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