Israel's health ministry on Saturday insisted that Covid-19 vaccine doses the Palestinians rejected as about to expire were "completely valid".

On Friday, Palestinian authority called off a deal according to which Israel would provide it 1 million vaccine jabs in exchange for doses from Pfizer that Palestinians are scheduled to receive later this year

PA spokesman Ibrahim Melhem said an initial delivery of some 90,000 Pfizer doses failed to conform "to the specifications contained in the agreement, and accordingly prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh instructed the minister of health to cancel the agreement".

"The government refuses to receive vaccines that are about to expire," Melhem said, in a statement carried by the official WAFA news agency.

Israeli health ministry said that the vaccines were "completely valid" although the prime minister's office acknowledged Friday that they were "about to expire", without specifying the use-by date

"The Palestinian health ministry received Pfizer vaccines that were valid, with expiration dates that were known, agreed on and that matched the agreement between the two sides," the ministry said.&nbsp;

Israel has launched a sweeping vaccination campaign after obtaining millions of doses of the Pfizer vaccine. 
More than 55 percent of Israel's population -- some 5.1 million people -- have received both doses of the vaccine.

Far fewer Palestinians -- just over 270,000 people -- have received their two doses in the West Bank and Gaza, according to the Palestinian health ministry.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's health ministry on Saturday insisted that Covid-19 vaccine doses the Palestinians rejected as about to expire were "completely valid". On Friday, Palestinian authority called off a deal according to which Israel would provide it 1 million vaccine jabs in exchange for doses from Pfizer that Palestinians are scheduled to receive later this year PA spokesman Ibrahim Melhem said an initial delivery of some 90,000 Pfizer doses failed to conform "to the specifications contained in the agreement, and accordingly prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh instructed the minister of health to cancel the agreement".

Israel's health ministry on Saturday insisted that Covid-19 vaccine doses the Palestinians rejected as about to expire were "completely valid". On Friday, Palestinian authority called off a deal according to which Israel would provide it 1 million vaccine jabs in exchange for doses from Pfizer that Palestinians are scheduled to receive later this year PA spokesman Ibrahim Melhem said an initial delivery of some 90,000 Pfizer doses failed to conform "to the specifications contained in the agreement, and accordingly prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh instructed the minister of health to cancel the agreement". "The government refuses to receive vaccines that are about to expire," Melhem said, in a statement carried by the official WAFA news agency. Israeli health ministry said that the vaccines were "completely valid" although the prime minister's office acknowledged Friday that they were "about to expire", without specifying the use-by date "The Palestinian health ministry received Pfizer vaccines that were valid, with expiration dates that were known, agreed on and that matched the agreement between the two sides," the ministry said. Israel has launched a sweeping vaccination campaign after obtaining millions of doses of the Pfizer vaccine. More than 55 percent of Israel's population -- some 5.1 million people -- have received both doses of the vaccine. Far fewer Palestinians -- just over 270,000 people -- have received their two doses in the West Bank and Gaza, according to the Palestinian health ministry. (With inputs from agencies)

Vaccine doses Palestinians rejected were 'completely valid': Israel

In May 2021, during holy month of Ramzan, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict flared up again and resulted in huge loss of life, property, infrastructure in Gaza and Israel. Authorities in Gaza estimate that worth tens of millions of dollars worth of damage occurred. The United Nations estimates that more than 72,000 Palestinians were displaced by the fighting. Hamas and Israel agreed on a ceasefire on May 21.

Most of the analysts throughout the world have examined this episode in terms of condemning both Hamas and Israel. The latter in particular, was criticised for what was perceived as disproportionate military action. This disproportionate action by the Israeli state is not new. What is important here is to underline and understand the political message by the Israeli state which it intends to convey through disproportionate action. In the present context it may have been linked to the domestic politics of Israel wherein such retribution against Palestinians was intended to increase the longevity of the political life of the Netanyahu government.

However, far more important factor behind this military adventurism was Israel testing the strength of Abraham Accords signed with UAE and Bahrain.

It also intended to check its growing relationship with Saudi Arabia. Israeli government has initiated informal discussions with Saudi Arabia which are aimed at normalisation of the political relationship between the two countries.

It may be recalled here that earlier, the infamous Sabra and Shatila massacre, Lebanese massacre (1982) tested the peace and friendship treaty between Israel and Egypt (1979)

This time it appeared that the state of Israel became internationally isolated and drew flak from most world leaders and it appeared that there was genuine global sympathy for suffering Palestinians.

This explains why United Nations Human Rights Commission has decided to establish a permanent committee, Commission of Inquiry to investigate the allegation of human rights abuses and war crimes in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank.

However, larger question is still about whether there ever be a 'two-state solution' in the region leading to creation of viable state of Palestine and whether the cycle of violence will end.

It is strange and highly disappointing that global policymakers are looking at the Palestinian issue only from the humanitarian perspective, offering economic and other kinds of support as confirmed by visit of EU envoy Sven Kuhn von Burgsdorff, on 1st June, 2021 &nbsp;to Gaza City for the first time since the ceasefire agreement with Israel. While visiting Gaza, he made a commitment for the reconstruction of parts of Gaza and said, “The reconstruction of Gaza needs several steps, including a unified Palestinian government and the lifting of the 15-year-old Israeli blockade.”

Earlier US President Joe Biden, the liberal icon of the world, made a similar commitment towards rehabilitation and reconstruction of devastated Gaza. He said that he would work through the UN and other international stakeholders “to provide rapid humanitarian assistance and to marshal international support for the people in Gaza and in the Gaza reconstruction efforts"

Such measures are welcome and badly needed but the question remains whether they are sufficient to create permanent peace among Palestine and Israel because while these helping hands are important, they have only reconfirmed the 2nd November, 1917 Balfour Declaration.

It may be recalled here that the Balfour Declaration has made a commitment for the creation of homeland for Jewish people in Palestine while maintaining the social and religious rights of Palestinians.

Since then the Palestinian problem has been projected as a humanitarian crisis which has also been incorporated in the UN Resolution of 242 and 338. Such an approach of international community has traditionally benefitted the Israeli state as it does not uphold the political rights of Palestinians to have their own nation and state.

The time has come for world leaders to provide a political solution by supporting the idea of two nation-states. It is true that Israel is too strong as a state and capable of defending itself, while Arab world is too weak at the moment and Palestinians are increasingly reduced to a defenceless community.

Therefore, neither Palestinians nor the Arab world is in a position to bargain with Israel, thus it is important for India, the emerging global power to become the beacon of hope and courage and trailblaze this noble cause along with other international bodies like United Nations which can help in the creation of Palestinian state.

As humanity is entering a new phase of globalization in the 21st century it is important that this only BLACK DOT from the earth should be removed.

This requires that the major nations of the world Like USA, Russia, Germany, China, Japan, European Union should rise above their narrow national interest and support this just cause for the purpose of ensuring peace, stability in the region and ensuring a good and healthy life for the future generations.

(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.)

In May 2021, during holy month of Ramzan, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict flared up again and resulted in huge loss of life, property, infrastructure in Gaza and Israel.

In May 2021, during holy month of Ramzan, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict flared up again and resulted in huge loss of life, property, infrastructure in Gaza and Israel. Authorities in Gaza estimate that worth tens of millions of dollars worth of damage occurred. The United Nations estimates that more than 72,000 Palestinians were displaced by the fighting. Hamas and Israel agreed on a ceasefire on May 21. Most of the analysts throughout the world have examined this episode in terms of condemning both Hamas and Israel. The latter in particular, was criticised for what was perceived as disproportionate military action. This disproportionate action by the Israeli state is not new. What is important here is to underline and understand the political message by the Israeli state which it intends to convey through disproportionate action. In the present context it may have been linked to the domestic politics of Israel wherein such retribution against Palestinians was intended to increase the longevity of the political life of the Netanyahu government. However, far more important factor behind this military adventurism was Israel testing the strength of Abraham Accords signed with UAE and Bahrain. It also intended to check its growing relationship with Saudi Arabia. Israeli government has initiated informal discussions with Saudi Arabia which are aimed at normalisation of the political relationship between the two countries. It may be recalled here that earlier, the infamous Sabra and Shatila massacre, Lebanese massacre (1982) tested the peace and friendship treaty between Israel and Egypt (1979) This time it appeared that the state of Israel became internationally isolated and drew flak from most world leaders and it appeared that there was genuine global sympathy for suffering Palestinians. This explains why United Nations Human Rights Commission has decided to establish a permanent committee, Commission of Inquiry to investigate the allegation of human rights abuses and war crimes in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank. However, larger question is still about whether there ever be a 'two-state solution' in the region leading to creation of viable state of Palestine and whether the cycle of violence will end. It is strange and highly disappointing that global policymakers are looking at the Palestinian issue only from the humanitarian perspective, offering economic and other kinds of support as confirmed by visit of EU envoy Sven Kuhn von Burgsdorff, on 1st June, 2021 to Gaza City for the first time since the ceasefire agreement with Israel. While visiting Gaza, he made a commitment for the reconstruction of parts of Gaza and said, “The reconstruction of Gaza needs several steps, including a unified Palestinian government and the lifting of the 15-year-old Israeli blockade.” Earlier US President Joe Biden, the liberal icon of the world, made a similar commitment towards rehabilitation and reconstruction of devastated Gaza. He said that he would work through the UN and other international stakeholders “to provide rapid humanitarian assistance and to marshal international support for the people in Gaza and in the Gaza reconstruction efforts" Such measures are welcome and badly needed but the question remains whether they are sufficient to create permanent peace among Palestine and Israel because while these helping hands are important, they have only reconfirmed the 2nd November, 1917 Balfour Declaration. It may be recalled here that the Balfour Declaration has made a commitment for the creation of homeland for Jewish people in Palestine while maintaining the social and religious rights of Palestinians. Since then the Palestinian problem has been projected as a humanitarian crisis which has also been incorporated in the UN Resolution of 242 and 338. Such an approach of international community has traditionally benefitted the Israeli state as it does not uphold the political rights of Palestinians to have their own nation and state. The time has come for world leaders to provide a political solution by supporting the idea of two nation-states. It is true that Israel is too strong as a state and capable of defending itself, while Arab world is too weak at the moment and Palestinians are increasingly reduced to a defenceless community. Therefore, neither Palestinians nor the Arab world is in a position to bargain with Israel, thus it is important for India, the emerging global power to become the beacon of hope and courage and trailblaze this noble cause along with other international bodies like United Nations which can help in the creation of Palestinian state. As humanity is entering a new phase of globalization in the 21st century it is important that this only BLACK DOT from the earth should be removed. This requires that the major nations of the world Like USA, Russia, Germany, China, Japan, European Union should rise above their narrow national interest and support this just cause for the purpose of ensuring peace, stability in the region and ensuring a good and healthy life for the future generations. (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.)

Opinion: For just cause of Palestine

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed his support to 'two-state solution' to resolve the Israel-Palestine issue that has been one of the major flashpoints in West Asia. His comment came just days ahead of his visit to the region. Two-state solution refers to the establishment of separate states for Israelis and Arabs in Palestine.

"If there isn't positive change, and particularly if we can't find a way to help Palestinians live with more -- with more dignity and with more hope, this cycle is likely to repeat itself, and that is in no one's interest," Blinken said on ABC News' "This Week."

“Ultimately I think that that hope, that security, that dignity will be found in a Palestinian state,” said Blinken in the course of the interview.Blinken's statement represents a marked shift in USA's stance as compared to that when Donald Trump was the president. Trump administration had cut aid to the Palestinian Authority and issued a Middle East peace plan with strong Israeli backing but no support from Palestinians.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-official-demands-access-to-education-jobs-for-gaza-children-386941">UN official demands access to education, jobs for Gaza children</a>

However, the two-state solution is a long-time US goal.

The top US diplomat emphasized the need to provide humanitarian aid to Palestinians while beginning a major effort at reconstruction.

The State Department announced Thursday that Blinken will travel to the Middle East "in the coming days", with plans to meet with Israeli, Palestinian and regional counterparts.

Israel and Hamas have agreed upon a ceasefire just days ago. The ceasefire ended 11 days of mutual bombardment that took lives on both sides.

'Something more positive'

Saying the ceasefire would help mark a pivot from violence to "something more positive," he added, "That has to start now with dealing with the grave humanitarian situation in Gaza.

"Then reconstruction, rebuilding what's been lost, and critically, engaging both sides in trying to start to make real improvements" in people's lives.

He was asked on ABC how the Biden administration could ensure that aid would go to ordinary Palestinians and not help the Hamas militants who launched thousands of rockets at Israel.

"We've worked in the past and we continue to work with trusted, independent parties that can help do the reconstruction and the development, not some quasi- government authority," he said.&nbsp;

"The real challenge here is to help the Palestinians and particularly to help the Palestinian Authority deliver better results for their people, and of course, Israel has a profound role to play in that too."&nbsp;

Israel's response to the Hamas rocket barrages has drawn sharp criticism from some liberal members of the US Congress who have questioned American arms sales to the Jewish state.&nbsp;

Asked about that, Blinken replied, "The president has been clear we're committed to giving Israel the means to defend itself... At the same time, any arms sale will be done in full consultation in Congress."

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed his support to 'two-state solution' to resolve the Israel-Palestine issue that has been one of the major flashpoints in West Asia.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed his support to 'two-state solution' to resolve the Israel-Palestine issue that has been one of the major flashpoints in West Asia. His comment came just days ahead of his visit to the region. Two-state solution refers to the establishment of separate states for Israelis and Arabs in Palestine. "If there isn't positive change, and particularly if we can't find a way to help Palestinians live with more -- with more dignity and with more hope, this cycle is likely to repeat itself, and that is in no one's interest," Blinken said on ABC News' "This Week." “Ultimately I think that that hope, that security, that dignity will be found in a Palestinian state,” said Blinken in the course of the interview.Blinken's statement represents a marked shift in USA's stance as compared to that when Donald Trump was the president. Trump administration had cut aid to the Palestinian Authority and issued a Middle East peace plan with strong Israeli backing but no support from Palestinians. Also Read | UN official demands access to education, jobs for Gaza children However, the two-state solution is a long-time US goal. The top US diplomat emphasized the need to provide humanitarian aid to Palestinians while beginning a major effort at reconstruction. The State Department announced Thursday that Blinken will travel to the Middle East "in the coming days", with plans to meet with Israeli, Palestinian and regional counterparts. Israel and Hamas have agreed upon a ceasefire just days ago. The ceasefire ended 11 days of mutual bombardment that took lives on both sides. 'Something more positive' Saying the ceasefire would help mark a pivot from violence to "something more positive," he added, "That has to start now with dealing with the grave humanitarian situation in Gaza. "Then reconstruction, rebuilding what's been lost, and critically, engaging both sides in trying to start to make real improvements" in people's lives. He was asked on ABC how the Biden administration could ensure that aid would go to ordinary Palestinians and not help the Hamas militants who launched thousands of rockets at Israel. "We've worked in the past and we continue to work with trusted, independent parties that can help do the reconstruction and the development, not some quasi- government authority," he said. "The real challenge here is to help the Palestinians and particularly to help the Palestinian Authority deliver better results for their people, and of course, Israel has a profound role to play in that too." Israel's response to the Hamas rocket barrages has drawn sharp criticism from some liberal members of the US Congress who have questioned American arms sales to the Jewish state. Asked about that, Blinken replied, "The president has been clear we're committed to giving Israel the means to defend itself... At the same time, any arms sale will be done in full consultation in Congress." (With inputs from agencies)

Antony Blinken reaffirms support for 'two-state solution' ahead of West Asia visit

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas after 11 days of deadly hostilities is a welcome step for the innocent people suffering casualties in the crossfire, provided all sides observe this ceasefire judiciously. The Israel- Palestine struggle is one of the oldest struggles in the world with Israeli occupation of West Bank and Gaza Strip 53 years back, interspersed with wars and conflicts at varying scale intermittently, with no signs of a permanent peaceful solution so far.

This truce after the latest round of fighting, like previous wars, has ended inconclusively, with Israel claiming heavy damage to Hamas, but unable to stop their rockets (killing 12 Israelis and over 200 injured). Hamas also claims victory, despite heavy casualties (230 Palestinians killed, over 1900 injured), facing challenges of rebuilding Gaza, poor confidence with troubled population (58000 Palestinians fled their homes) already suffering poverty due to coronavirus pandemic. &nbsp;

Gaza is controlled by Hamas (post-Israeli disengagement in 2005), which also operates militant wing and West Bank with 167 enclaves of Palestinians are governed by Fatah (claiming to represent erstwhile Palestinians Liberation Organisation) amidst 230 Israeli settlements governed by Israel.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-israel-palestine-where-is-the-conflict-heading-385830">Israel-Palestine: Where is the conflict heading?</a>

Both factions (Hamas and Fatah) have different ideologies and differences, but form a Palestinian Unity Government under President Mahmoud Abbas since 2014, negotiating peace through Quartet (US, Russia, EU and UN). The competing claims to Jerusalem, which is crucial to Christians, Jews and Palestinians is the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and have repeatedly triggered incidences of violence in the past, like the present one.&nbsp;

Trigger for Current Crisis &nbsp; &nbsp;

The renewed violence started on 6 May, when Palestinian protests began over an anticipated decision of the Supreme Court of Israel (Yet to be announced), on the eviction of six Palestinian families from Sheikh Jarrah, a neighborhood of occupied East Jerusalem, resulting increasing skirmishes between Israelis and Palestinians in the Old City of Jerusalem.

On May 8, Palestinian Muslims streamed to the Haram al-Sharif for Ramadan prayers, in large numbers to mark the revelation of the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad, considered not only the most sacred night of Ramazan, but of the whole Islamic calendar. Simultaneously, some Israeli Jews were gathering ahead of Jerusalem Day (May 10) marking Jewish control over the Old City of Jerusalem secured during the 1967 war.&nbsp;

The focal point of those celebrations is the Western Wall of the Temple Mount (the holiest site in Judaism), the same elevated platform that Muslims call the Haram al-Sharif.

Israeli police stormed the compound of the al-Aqsa Mosque, the third-holiest site in Islam and the confrontations occurred resulting more than 300 people injured, mostly Palestinians. Closure of Damascus gate was another irritant. This resulted a barrage of rockets fired by Hamas on Israel, responded by repeated air attacks by Israel on Gaza, along with other arsenal, causing heavy destruction and casualties, which continued for last 11 days. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Internal Dynamics &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

This confrontation has happened at a time when there is political crises in Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA). Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel recently failed to put together a ruling coalition even after the fourth round of elections in just two years; hence lacks a popular mandate.&nbsp;

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, whose term expired 12 years ago also lacks popular mandate. He recently cancelled legislative elections, after his party was trailing badly in the polls.

With leaders on both sides lacking legitimacy any peace talks regarding such complex situation may have little chances of success, with a risk of reckless action by either. Moreover, the Arab population in Israel was also on streets and incidences of lynching may have potential to ignite if pending Supreme Court decision is one-sided. The Hezbollah also came out in support of Hamas further adding complexity to the problem. The truce therefore is quite fragile.&nbsp;

International Reaction &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

During UNSC resolutions USA found itself isolated in backing Israel. It was therefore in tight spot to broker peace amidst growing pressure against Israel seen to be using excessive force.

It also needs to be noted that after erstwhile US President Trump recognised Jerusalem as capital of Israel, he shifted US embassy there and offered an unviable peace solution, which was rejected by PA, but &nbsp;Prime Minister Netanyahu seems to have assumed that entire Jerusalem belongs to Israel and others need to slowly vacate it.

This is disastrous because from historic and religious point of view Jerusalem is non-negotiable to &nbsp;Christians, Jews and Palestinians, who coexist there since ages. &nbsp;

International community although recognises Israel’s right to defend itself, but not at the cost of pulverising civil areas of Gaza, causing heavy civil casualties, even if it accuses Hamas of basing itself amidst population (a tactic adopted by most terrorist groups in the world).&nbsp;

As per UN, the truce seemed to be brokered by Egypt and Qatar (normally accused of supporting Shia-based Hamas, along with Iran). What is grossly different this time was over-reaction by Erdogan, trying to pose himself as new leader of Islamic world and Pakistan with loud voices against Israel.

This confrontation happened when Israel was improving relations with some countries of Arab world, which may suffer a temporary setback due to their objection to Israeli actions on the Haram al-Sharif. Most Arab states otherwise are hostile to Hamas, and differentiate well between the Palestinian people and the Hamas fighters.&nbsp;

Future Peace Prospects

Fed up of insecurities, In 2007, according to a number of polls, the majority of Israelis and Palestinians, prefer the two-state solution over any other solution, as a means of resolving the conflict, which was initiated in Oslo Accords in 1993-95. With complexities of entanglement of 167 Palestinian enclaves embedded in 203 Israeli settlements and related governance issues, it's not really practical that it may be possible for Israel to agree to vacate West Bank.

I don’t visualise any Israeli leadership ever agreeing to such a proposal. Same is the case with Jerusalem. Any attempt to push out any one religious community from its religious site is bound to have serious backlash. Peaceful coexistence may not be preferred option but seems to be the only practical option.&nbsp;

There is also a possibility of outside peace spoilers like Erdogan igniting religious disharmony, which must be curbed by both the parties and Quartet.

There have been some voices from Palestinians expecting Indian mediation as India has good relations with Israel as well as Palestine, but the issue is so complex and sensitive that current Indian policy of maintaining independent relations with both with no interference in internal affairs of either, may be the best policy for India.

Considering all the factors, the current truce is a welcome step, but its longevity is questionable in light of political uncertainties both sides and mistrust between communities.

(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.)

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas after 11 days of deadly hostilities is a welcome step for the innocent people suffering casualties in the crossfire, provided all sides observe this ceasefire judiciously.

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas after 11 days of deadly hostilities is a welcome step for the innocent people suffering casualties in the crossfire, provided all sides observe this ceasefire judiciously. The Israel- Palestine struggle is one of the oldest struggles in the world with Israeli occupation of West Bank and Gaza Strip 53 years back, interspersed with wars and conflicts at varying scale intermittently, with no signs of a permanent peaceful solution so far. This truce after the latest round of fighting, like previous wars, has ended inconclusively, with Israel claiming heavy damage to Hamas, but unable to stop their rockets (killing 12 Israelis and over 200 injured). Hamas also claims victory, despite heavy casualties (230 Palestinians killed, over 1900 injured), facing challenges of rebuilding Gaza, poor confidence with troubled population (58000 Palestinians fled their homes) already suffering poverty due to coronavirus pandemic. Gaza is controlled by Hamas (post-Israeli disengagement in 2005), which also operates militant wing and West Bank with 167 enclaves of Palestinians are governed by Fatah (claiming to represent erstwhile Palestinians Liberation Organisation) amidst 230 Israeli settlements governed by Israel. Also Read: Israel-Palestine: Where is the conflict heading? Both factions (Hamas and Fatah) have different ideologies and differences, but form a Palestinian Unity Government under President Mahmoud Abbas since 2014, negotiating peace through Quartet (US, Russia, EU and UN). The competing claims to Jerusalem, which is crucial to Christians, Jews and Palestinians is the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and have repeatedly triggered incidences of violence in the past, like the present one. Trigger for Current Crisis The renewed violence started on 6 May, when Palestinian protests began over an anticipated decision of the Supreme Court of Israel (Yet to be announced), on the eviction of six Palestinian families from Sheikh Jarrah, a neighborhood of occupied East Jerusalem, resulting increasing skirmishes between Israelis and Palestinians in the Old City of Jerusalem. On May 8, Palestinian Muslims streamed to the Haram al-Sharif for Ramadan prayers, in large numbers to mark the revelation of the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad, considered not only the most sacred night of Ramazan, but of the whole Islamic calendar. Simultaneously, some Israeli Jews were gathering ahead of Jerusalem Day (May 10) marking Jewish control over the Old City of Jerusalem secured during the 1967 war. The focal point of those celebrations is the Western Wall of the Temple Mount (the holiest site in Judaism), the same elevated platform that Muslims call the Haram al-Sharif. Israeli police stormed the compound of the al-Aqsa Mosque, the third-holiest site in Islam and the confrontations occurred resulting more than 300 people injured, mostly Palestinians. Closure of Damascus gate was another irritant. This resulted a barrage of rockets fired by Hamas on Israel, responded by repeated air attacks by Israel on Gaza, along with other arsenal, causing heavy destruction and casualties, which continued for last 11 days. Internal Dynamics This confrontation has happened at a time when there is political crises in Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA). Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel recently failed to put together a ruling coalition even after the fourth round of elections in just two years; hence lacks a popular mandate. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, whose term expired 12 years ago also lacks popular mandate. He recently cancelled legislative elections, after his party was trailing badly in the polls. With leaders on both sides lacking legitimacy any peace talks regarding such complex situation may have little chances of success, with a risk of reckless action by either. Moreover, the Arab population in Israel was also on streets and incidences of lynching may have potential to ignite if pending Supreme Court decision is one-sided. The Hezbollah also came out in support of Hamas further adding complexity to the problem. The truce therefore is quite fragile. International Reaction During UNSC resolutions USA found itself isolated in backing Israel. It was therefore in tight spot to broker peace amidst growing pressure against Israel seen to be using excessive force. It also needs to be noted that after erstwhile US President Trump recognised Jerusalem as capital of Israel, he shifted US embassy there and offered an unviable peace solution, which was rejected by PA, but Prime Minister Netanyahu seems to have assumed that entire Jerusalem belongs to Israel and others need to slowly vacate it. This is disastrous because from historic and religious point of view Jerusalem is non-negotiable to Christians, Jews and Palestinians, who coexist there since ages. International community although recognises Israel’s right to defend itself, but not at the cost of pulverising civil areas of Gaza, causing heavy civil casualties, even if it accuses Hamas of basing itself amidst population (a tactic adopted by most terrorist groups in the world). As per UN, the truce seemed to be brokered by Egypt and Qatar (normally accused of supporting Shia-based Hamas, along with Iran). What is grossly different this time was over-reaction by Erdogan, trying to pose himself as new leader of Islamic world and Pakistan with loud voices against Israel. This confrontation happened when Israel was improving relations with some countries of Arab world, which may suffer a temporary setback due to their objection to Israeli actions on the Haram al-Sharif. Most Arab states otherwise are hostile to Hamas, and differentiate well between the Palestinian people and the Hamas fighters. Future Peace Prospects Fed up of insecurities, In 2007, according to a number of polls, the majority of Israelis and Palestinians, prefer the two-state solution over any other solution, as a means of resolving the conflict, which was initiated in Oslo Accords in 1993-95. With complexities of entanglement of 167 Palestinian enclaves embedded in 203 Israeli settlements and related governance issues, it's not really practical that it may be possible for Israel to agree to vacate West Bank. I don’t visualise any Israeli leadership ever agreeing to such a proposal. Same is the case with Jerusalem. Any attempt to push out any one religious community from its religious site is bound to have serious backlash. Peaceful coexistence may not be preferred option but seems to be the only practical option. There is also a possibility of outside peace spoilers like Erdogan igniting religious disharmony, which must be curbed by both the parties and Quartet. There have been some voices from Palestinians expecting Indian mediation as India has good relations with Israel as well as Palestine, but the issue is so complex and sensitive that current Indian policy of maintaining independent relations with both with no interference in internal affairs of either, may be the best policy for India. Considering all the factors, the current truce is a welcome step, but its longevity is questionable in light of political uncertainties both sides and mistrust between communities. (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.)

Opinion: How different is Israel-Hamas ceasefire this time?

Hungary Foreign Minister &nbsp;Peter Szijjarto slammed what he called the European Union's 'one-sided' statement on Israel. His comments camem even as his European counterparts called for a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinians

"I have a general problem with these European statements on Israel... These are usually very much one-sided, and these statements do not help, especially not under current circumstances, when the tension is so high," Szijjarto told AFP in an interview.

On Tuesday, EU foreign police chief Josep Borrell appealed for implementation of a ceasefire.

"The priority is the immediate cessation of all violence and the implementation of a ceasefire," Borrell said after a video conference of EU foreign ministers, adding the statement was backed by all the bloc's member states except Hungary.&nbsp;

Szijjarto himself did not attend the meeting. Hungary has recently used its veto power to block EU statements on China.

In the interview with AFP, Szijjarto insisted that blocking decisions "is a right of every country in the European Union".

"EU diplomacy should not consist only of judgements, negative statements and sanctions," he said.

"So I think less judgement, less lecturing, less criticism, less interference and more pragmatic cooperation could give back a lot of strength to the European Union."

Israel's intense bombing campaign has killed 213 Palestinians, including 61 children, and wounded more than 1,400 people in Gaza in more than a week of fighting against Islamist group Hamas, according to the health ministry in Gaza.

The death toll on the Israeli side rose to 12 on Tuesday when a volley of rockets Hamas fired at the southern Eshkol region killed two Thai nationals working in a factory and wounded several others.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hungary Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto slammed what he called the European Union's 'one-sided' statement on Israel. His comments camem even as his European counterparts called for a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinians "I have a general problem with these European statements on Israel.

Hungary Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto slammed what he called the European Union's 'one-sided' statement on Israel. His comments camem even as his European counterparts called for a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinians "I have a general problem with these European statements on Israel... These are usually very much one-sided, and these statements do not help, especially not under current circumstances, when the tension is so high," Szijjarto told AFP in an interview. On Tuesday, EU foreign police chief Josep Borrell appealed for implementation of a ceasefire. "The priority is the immediate cessation of all violence and the implementation of a ceasefire," Borrell said after a video conference of EU foreign ministers, adding the statement was backed by all the bloc's member states except Hungary. Szijjarto himself did not attend the meeting. Hungary has recently used its veto power to block EU statements on China. In the interview with AFP, Szijjarto insisted that blocking decisions "is a right of every country in the European Union". "EU diplomacy should not consist only of judgements, negative statements and sanctions," he said. "So I think less judgement, less lecturing, less criticism, less interference and more pragmatic cooperation could give back a lot of strength to the European Union." Israel's intense bombing campaign has killed 213 Palestinians, including 61 children, and wounded more than 1,400 people in Gaza in more than a week of fighting against Islamist group Hamas, according to the health ministry in Gaza. The death toll on the Israeli side rose to 12 on Tuesday when a volley of rockets Hamas fired at the southern Eshkol region killed two Thai nationals working in a factory and wounded several others. (With inputs from agencies)

Hungary foreign minister slams EU for 'one-sided' statements on Israel

The violence between Israel and Hamas has intensified in the past eight days and is showing no signs of abating despite regular diplomatic efforts to bring about a ceasefire.&nbsp;

According to Israeli media, Hamas has fired over 3,350 rockets from Gaza — 200 on Monday alone — and that Israeli strikes have killed at least 130 militants.&nbsp; 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/under-pressure-biden-works-for-ceasefire-in-israel-gaza-violence-385746">Under pressure, Biden works for ceasefire in Israel-Gaza violence&nbsp;</a>

The death toll in Gaza has crossed 200 — including 61 children and 36 women — while 12 people have died in Israel — including two children and including two Thai nationals working in a factory.

Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan has said the Israel-Gaza conflict is pushing the whole region "in the wrong direction,".

"This all pushes us absolutely in the wrong direction. It means that we are making a path toward a sustainable peace more difficult," bin Farhan told AFP, as the international community steps up its diplomatic efforts to push for de-escalation. 
 
Gravitas: Hamas and the politics of Palestine

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The conflict is "empowering the extremists," he added.

"It empowers the most intolerant voices in our region and makes (finding) a path to real peace harder," he added, speaking on the sideline of summits in France on Sudan and Africa.

"We have to all work together to encourage all the parties to engage (seriously), he said. "First of all, to de-escalate, to stop the violence and then to engage in serious peace talks toward a final settlement."

That final settlement "must include a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital," Saudi Arabia's top diplomat stressed. 
 
In pictures:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures-indonesia-backs-gaza-as-israel-pounds-back-385787">Indonesia backs Gaza as Israel pounds back</a>

Israel's near-relentless bombing campaign has killed 217 Palestinians, including 63 children, and wounded more than 1,400 people in just over a week in the Hamas-run enclave, according to Gaza's health ministry.

The death toll on the Israeli side rose to 12 when a volley of rockets Hamas fired at the southern Eshkol region killed two Thai nationals working in a factory and wounded several others, police said.

"Our key priority is to reinitiate peace talks between Palestinians and Israelis," bin Farhan said.

"This is the only path to a sustainable peace."

Saudi Arabia has no official relations with Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

The violence between Israel and Hamas has intensified in the past eight days and is showing no signs of abating despite regular diplomatic efforts to bring about a ceasefire.

The violence between Israel and Hamas has intensified in the past eight days and is showing no signs of abating despite regular diplomatic efforts to bring about a ceasefire. According to Israeli media, Hamas has fired over 3,350 rockets from Gaza — 200 on Monday alone — and that Israeli strikes have killed at least 130 militants. Also read: Under pressure, Biden works for ceasefire in Israel-Gaza violence The death toll in Gaza has crossed 200 — including 61 children and 36 women — while 12 people have died in Israel — including two children and including two Thai nationals working in a factory. Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan has said the Israel-Gaza conflict is pushing the whole region "in the wrong direction,". "This all pushes us absolutely in the wrong direction. It means that we are making a path toward a sustainable peace more difficult," bin Farhan told AFP, as the international community steps up its diplomatic efforts to push for de-escalation. Gravitas: Hamas and the politics of Palestine The conflict is "empowering the extremists," he added. "It empowers the most intolerant voices in our region and makes (finding) a path to real peace harder," he added, speaking on the sideline of summits in France on Sudan and Africa. "We have to all work together to encourage all the parties to engage (seriously), he said. "First of all, to de-escalate, to stop the violence and then to engage in serious peace talks toward a final settlement." That final settlement "must include a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital," Saudi Arabia's top diplomat stressed. In pictures: Indonesia backs Gaza as Israel pounds back Israel's near-relentless bombing campaign has killed 217 Palestinians, including 63 children, and wounded more than 1,400 people in just over a week in the Hamas-run enclave, according to Gaza's health ministry. The death toll on the Israeli side rose to 12 when a volley of rockets Hamas fired at the southern Eshkol region killed two Thai nationals working in a factory and wounded several others, police said. "Our key priority is to reinitiate peace talks between Palestinians and Israelis," bin Farhan said. "This is the only path to a sustainable peace." Saudi Arabia has no official relations with Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas conflict pushing region in 'wrong direction': Saudi Arabia calls for end to violence

Videos of rockets raining on Israel often have blaring sound of sirens in the background. These sirens are part of Israel's air raid siren system. Alarms go off every time a rocket from Gaza is fired towards Israel.&nbsp;

These alarms are placed across the country. Some go off automatically, some are manually controlled. Every time an Israeli hears a siren, he or she is expected to follow certain protocols. This includes rushing to safe rooms and bomb shelters.

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&nbsp;

Israel is bombarding the Gaza strip. And Hamas is raining rockets into Israel.&nbsp;

Israel's air sirens are unusual, but not unique. Most towns worldover had similar air raid sirens. During World War II, these alarms warned of approaching enemy bombers.&nbsp;

In fact, it was the British who introduced the alarm system in this region. It was then called Palestine and was under British rule. Post-1948, the alarm system was expanded by the newborn state of Israel. The alarms were upgraded as recently as 2019.

Israelis call these sirens 'Azaka'. It means alarm.

When an Israeli hears a siren, he or she has a minute to rush to a 'Mamad' or safe room. The siren stops blaring after the incoming rocket is intercepted. But residents are expected to stay in safe rooms for another couple of minutes. This is to avoid being hit by falling shrapnel. After the window period lapses, they can get back to what they were doing.

What if an alarm goes off when an Israeli citizen is outdoors? He or she must run to a nearby building. If that's not an option then the person has to lie down on the ground and cover their heads with hands.

If the siren goes off when a person is driving, Israelis are expected to pull over, leave the car, and rush to a shelter.

When a train pilot hears a siren, the train slows down to 30 miles per hour. And passengers are expected to bend their head and cover it with their hands.

Today, Israel uses a multi-touchpoint siren system. The warning is simultaneously broadcast over TV, the radio, and apps. Mobile applications provide real-time alerts, and information about the nature and location of the siren.

Our correspondent in Israel&nbsp;ran us through one such app while taking refuge in a safe room following a siren.&nbsp;

 
Today, safe rooms are mandatory in every building in Israel. But in Gaza, there is no such rule. There is nowhere people can run. There are also no air raid sirens, or safe houses.

Gaza is tiny with just 365 square kilometres of area. It has population of 2 million people. This strip is one of the world's most densely populated. And every time a bomb drops on Gaza, it risks every soul living there. 
&nbsp;

Videos of rockets raining on Israel often have blaring sound of sirens in the background. These sirens are part of Israel's air raid siren system. Alarms go off every time a rocket from Gaza is fired towards Israel.

Videos of rockets raining on Israel often have blaring sound of sirens in the background. These sirens are part of Israel's air raid siren system. Alarms go off every time a rocket from Gaza is fired towards Israel. These alarms are placed across the country. Some go off automatically, some are manually controlled. Every time an Israeli hears a siren, he or she is expected to follow certain protocols. This includes rushing to safe rooms and bomb shelters. × Israel is bombarding the Gaza strip. And Hamas is raining rockets into Israel. Israel's air sirens are unusual, but not unique. Most towns worldover had similar air raid sirens. During World War II, these alarms warned of approaching enemy bombers. In fact, it was the British who introduced the alarm system in this region. It was then called Palestine and was under British rule. Post-1948, the alarm system was expanded by the newborn state of Israel. The alarms were upgraded as recently as 2019. Israelis call these sirens 'Azaka'. It means alarm. When an Israeli hears a siren, he or she has a minute to rush to a 'Mamad' or safe room. The siren stops blaring after the incoming rocket is intercepted. But residents are expected to stay in safe rooms for another couple of minutes. This is to avoid being hit by falling shrapnel. After the window period lapses, they can get back to what they were doing. What if an alarm goes off when an Israeli citizen is outdoors? He or she must run to a nearby building. If that's not an option then the person has to lie down on the ground and cover their heads with hands. If the siren goes off when a person is driving, Israelis are expected to pull over, leave the car, and rush to a shelter. When a train pilot hears a siren, the train slows down to 30 miles per hour. And passengers are expected to bend their head and cover it with their hands. Today, Israel uses a multi-touchpoint siren system. The warning is simultaneously broadcast over TV, the radio, and apps. Mobile applications provide real-time alerts, and information about the nature and location of the siren. Our correspondent in Israel ran us through one such app while taking refuge in a safe room following a siren. Today, safe rooms are mandatory in every building in Israel. But in Gaza, there is no such rule. There is nowhere people can run. There are also no air raid sirens, or safe houses. Gaza is tiny with just 365 square kilometres of area. It has population of 2 million people. This strip is one of the world's most densely populated. And every time a bomb drops on Gaza, it risks every soul living there.

This is how Israel protects its citizens from rocket attacks

The UN General Assembly will hold an in-person debate on the Israeli-Palestinian clashes at 1400 GMT on Thursday, assembly spokesman Brenden Varma said.

US blocks third draft UN statement on Israel-Gaza violence

Russia President Vladmir Putin on Tuesday (May 18) called for an end to Israel-Gaza violence. He mentioned that there were large amounts of civilian victims.

Israel bombarded Gaza with air strikes and Palestinian militants resumed cross-border rocket fire on Tuesday after a brief overnight lull during which the U.N. sent a small fuel convoy into the enclave, where it says 52,000 people are now displaced.

Israel has given no indication of de-escalation as the country's leaders said they would press on, for now with an offensive in order to destroy capabilities of Hamas and Islamic Jihad. United Nations and other world powers for an end to the violence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia President Vladmir Putin on Tuesday (May 18) called for an end to Israel-Gaza violence. He mentioned that there were large amounts of civilian victims. Israel bombarded Gaza with air strikes and Palestinian militants resumed cross-border rocket fire on Tuesday after a brief overnight lull during which the U.

Russia President Vladmir Putin on Tuesday (May 18) called for an end to Israel-Gaza violence. He mentioned that there were large amounts of civilian victims. Israel bombarded Gaza with air strikes and Palestinian militants resumed cross-border rocket fire on Tuesday after a brief overnight lull during which the U.N. sent a small fuel convoy into the enclave, where it says 52,000 people are now displaced. Israel has given no indication of de-escalation as the country's leaders said they would press on, for now with an offensive in order to destroy capabilities of Hamas and Islamic Jihad. United Nations and other world powers for an end to the violence. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine conflict: Putin calls for an end to violence

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Monday the US had requested "details" and a "justification" from Israel for an air strike on a Gaza building housing international media outlets.

US asks Israel for 'justification' for strike on media building

The 15-member U.N. Security Council met publicly for the first time on Sunday over the flare-up in the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.

UNGA to meet over Israel-Palestine violence on May 20

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the violence in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza in phone calls with the Qatari, Egyptian and Saudi foreign ministers, the State Department said on Sunday.

Blinken discusses Gaza in calls with Qatari, Egyptian, Saudi foreign ministers

The United States told United Nations Security Council (UNSC) that it had made clear to Israel and the Palestinians that it was prepared to offer support "should the parties seek a ceasefire".

"The United States has been working tirelessly through diplomatic channels to try to bring an end to this conflict," U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the 15-member council. "Because we believe Israelis and Palestinians equally have a right to live in safety and security."&nbsp;

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday told UNSC that Israel's campaign in Hamas-run Gaza was continuing at "full force"

USA - a strong ally of Israel - has been isolated at the United Nations over its objection to a public statement by the Security Council on the worst violence between Israel and the Palestinians in years because it worries it could harm behind-the-scenes diplomacy.

"We call upon the U.S. to shoulder its responsibilities, take a just position, and together with most of the international community support the Security Council in easing the situation," said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who chaired Sunday's meeting because China is president for May.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the United Nations is "actively engaging all sides toward an immediate ceasefire" and called on them "to allow mediation efforts to intensify and succeed."

'Take&nbsp;action&nbsp;NOW'

The truce efforts by Egypt, Qatar and the United Nations have so far offered no sign of progress. The United States sent an envoy to the region and President Joe Biden spoke with Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Saturday.

"In all these engagements with Israeli officials, the Palestinian Authority, and all regional partners, the United States has made clear that we are prepared to lend our support and good offices should the parties seek a ceasefire," Thomas-Greenfield said.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry told the Security Council that "concessions must be made as a price to be paid for peace so as to spare people from paying the heavy price of war."

The death toll in Gaza jumped to 188 overnight, including 55 children, amid an intensive Israeli air and artillery barrage since the fighting erupted last Monday. Ten people have been killed in Israel, including two children, in thousands of rocket attacks by Hamas and other militant groups.

"Each time Israel hears a foreign leader speak of its right to defend itself it is further emboldened to continue murdering entire families in their sleep," Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Malki told the Security Council.

(With inputs from agecies)

The United States told United Nations Security Council (UNSC) that it had made clear to Israel and the Palestinians that it was prepared to offer support "should the parties seek a ceasefire".

The United States told United Nations Security Council (UNSC) that it had made clear to Israel and the Palestinians that it was prepared to offer support "should the parties seek a ceasefire". "The United States has been working tirelessly through diplomatic channels to try to bring an end to this conflict," U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the 15-member council. "Because we believe Israelis and Palestinians equally have a right to live in safety and security." Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday told UNSC that Israel's campaign in Hamas-run Gaza was continuing at "full force" USA - a strong ally of Israel - has been isolated at the United Nations over its objection to a public statement by the Security Council on the worst violence between Israel and the Palestinians in years because it worries it could harm behind-the-scenes diplomacy. "We call upon the U.S. to shoulder its responsibilities, take a just position, and together with most of the international community support the Security Council in easing the situation," said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who chaired Sunday's meeting because China is president for May. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the United Nations is "actively engaging all sides toward an immediate ceasefire" and called on them "to allow mediation efforts to intensify and succeed." 'Take action NOW' The truce efforts by Egypt, Qatar and the United Nations have so far offered no sign of progress. The United States sent an envoy to the region and President Joe Biden spoke with Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Saturday. "In all these engagements with Israeli officials, the Palestinian Authority, and all regional partners, the United States has made clear that we are prepared to lend our support and good offices should the parties seek a ceasefire," Thomas-Greenfield said. Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry told the Security Council that "concessions must be made as a price to be paid for peace so as to spare people from paying the heavy price of war." The death toll in Gaza jumped to 188 overnight, including 55 children, amid an intensive Israeli air and artillery barrage since the fighting erupted last Monday. Ten people have been killed in Israel, including two children, in thousands of rocket attacks by Hamas and other militant groups. "Each time Israel hears a foreign leader speak of its right to defend itself it is further emboldened to continue murdering entire families in their sleep," Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Malki told the Security Council. (With inputs from agecies)

Ready to help to Israel-Palestine if ceasefire sought, says US

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday defended Israel's attack on Gaza tower housing Al-Jazeera and The Associated Press offices. He called the attack "perfectly legitimate attack'. His comments are sure to attract criticism for Israel which is already facing global heat.

"An intelligence office for the Palestinian terrorist organization (was) housed in that building that plots and organizes the terror attacks against Israeli civilians," Netanyahu told CBS News.

"So it is a perfectly legitimate target. I can tell you that we took every precaution to make sure that there were no civilian injuries, in fact, no deaths."

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On Saturday (May 15), an Israeli air attack flattened the building in Gaza that housed the media offices.

The attack sent alarm bells ringing across world that is already voicing concern about the escalating Israel-Palestine violence. The attack on media houses elicited a response even from the US, a strong ally of Israel. The US on Saturday asked Israel to protect the journalists.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-3000-rockets-fired-from-gaza-towards-israel-army-claims-385423">Nearly 3,000 rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel, army claims</a>

On Sunday, several strong statements came from the Israeli camp. Israel army chief said that Hamas had 'misjudged' Israel's strength.

"Hamas misjudged the strength of our response," said Aviv Kochavi, the army's chief of general staff, saying Gaza had since been enduring an aerial bombardment of unprecedented "intensity".

'Premeditated violence', says Israel at UN

Israel alleged that violence by&nbsp;Hamas was 'premeditated'.&nbsp;

"It was completely premeditated by Hamas in order to gain political power," said Israel's ambassador to the world body, Gilad Erdan. He was speaking during a session called by United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on the crisis.

Hamas said its rocket fire into Israel was in response to Israeli forces' entry into the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem, amid high tensions over moves to evict Palestinian families in the city.

"Do you really believe that this property dispute is what caused Hamas to launch these large-scale attacks on the people of Israel?" Erdan said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday defended Israel's attack on Gaza tower housing Al-Jazeera and The Associated Press offices. He called the attack "perfectly legitimate attack'.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday defended Israel's attack on Gaza tower housing Al-Jazeera and The Associated Press offices. He called the attack "perfectly legitimate attack'. His comments are sure to attract criticism for Israel which is already facing global heat. "An intelligence office for the Palestinian terrorist organization (was) housed in that building that plots and organizes the terror attacks against Israeli civilians," Netanyahu told CBS News. "So it is a perfectly legitimate target. I can tell you that we took every precaution to make sure that there were no civilian injuries, in fact, no deaths." × On Saturday (May 15), an Israeli air attack flattened the building in Gaza that housed the media offices. The attack sent alarm bells ringing across world that is already voicing concern about the escalating Israel-Palestine violence. The attack on media houses elicited a response even from the US, a strong ally of Israel. The US on Saturday asked Israel to protect the journalists. Also Read | Nearly 3,000 rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel, army claims On Sunday, several strong statements came from the Israeli camp. Israel army chief said that Hamas had 'misjudged' Israel's strength. "Hamas misjudged the strength of our response," said Aviv Kochavi, the army's chief of general staff, saying Gaza had since been enduring an aerial bombardment of unprecedented "intensity". 'Premeditated violence', says Israel at UN Israel alleged that violence by Hamas was 'premeditated'. "It was completely premeditated by Hamas in order to gain political power," said Israel's ambassador to the world body, Gilad Erdan. He was speaking during a session called by United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on the crisis. Hamas said its rocket fire into Israel was in response to Israeli forces' entry into the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem, amid high tensions over moves to evict Palestinian families in the city. "Do you really believe that this property dispute is what caused Hamas to launch these large-scale attacks on the people of Israel?" Erdan said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel PM Netanyahu defends media house attack, says building was 'legitimate target'

In light of escalation of violence between Israel and Palestine, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday voiced concern about possible war crimes.

"I note with great concern the escalation of violence in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, as well as in and around Gaza, and the possible commission of crimes under the Rome Statute," which founded the ICC, Fatou Bensouda said on Twitter.

Israeli army and Palestinian militants have been exchanging deadly fire since last week's violence around Al Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem that is regarded as a holy place by Jews as well as Muslims

ICC Chief Prosecutor Bensouda announced on March 3 that she had opened a full investigation into the situation in the Israeli-occupied territories, infuriating Israel, which not a member of The Hague-based court, unlike the Palestinian Authority.

That probe will mainly focus on the 2014 Gaza War but also look at the deaths of Palestinian demonstrators from 2018 onwards.

After a five-year preliminary probe, she had said there was "reasonable basis" to believe crimes were committed by both sides -- by the Israeli Defense Forces and Israeli authorities, and by Hamas and Palestinian armed groups.

Bensouda said Wednesday that the ICC investigations "will cover all sides and all the facts and evidence relevant to an assessment of whether there is individual criminal responsibility under the Statute."

"My Office will continue to monitor developments on the ground and will factor any matter that falls within its jurisdiction."

(With inputs from agencies)

In light of escalation of violence between Israel and Palestine, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday voiced concern about possible war crimes.

In light of escalation of violence between Israel and Palestine, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday voiced concern about possible war crimes. "I note with great concern the escalation of violence in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, as well as in and around Gaza, and the possible commission of crimes under the Rome Statute," which founded the ICC, Fatou Bensouda said on Twitter. Israeli army and Palestinian militants have been exchanging deadly fire since last week's violence around Al Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem that is regarded as a holy place by Jews as well as Muslims ICC Chief Prosecutor Bensouda announced on March 3 that she had opened a full investigation into the situation in the Israeli-occupied territories, infuriating Israel, which not a member of The Hague-based court, unlike the Palestinian Authority. That probe will mainly focus on the 2014 Gaza War but also look at the deaths of Palestinian demonstrators from 2018 onwards. After a five-year preliminary probe, she had said there was "reasonable basis" to believe crimes were committed by both sides -- by the Israeli Defense Forces and Israeli authorities, and by Hamas and Palestinian armed groups. Bensouda said Wednesday that the ICC investigations "will cover all sides and all the facts and evidence relevant to an assessment of whether there is individual criminal responsibility under the Statute." "My Office will continue to monitor developments on the ground and will factor any matter that falls within its jurisdiction." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine violence: International Criminal Court warns against war crimes

Russia President Vladimir Putin as well as United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called on Israel and Palestine to end the conflict.

"In light of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, it was stated that the primary task is to stop violent actions on both sides and ensure the safety of the civilian population," the Kremlin said in a statement after their video call.

The situation between Israel and Palestine is worst in last 7 years with violence erupting at number of places.

Violence at al-Aqsa mosque over the weekend has triggered unrest. Al Aqsa mosque is held to be a Holy place by Jews as well as Muslims.

Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz on Thursday ordered a "massive reinforcement" in order to contain internal unrest rocking mixed Jewish and Arab communities within the country.

In Gaza, 83 people were reportedly killed since Monday. This includes 17 children. The heavy bombardment has rocked Gaza and has brought entire tower blocks crumbling down.

The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza targets more than 600 times, while Hamas had fired over 1,600 rockets towards Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia President Vladimir Putin as well as United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called on Israel and Palestine to end the conflict.

Russia President Vladimir Putin as well as United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called on Israel and Palestine to end the conflict. "In light of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, it was stated that the primary task is to stop violent actions on both sides and ensure the safety of the civilian population," the Kremlin said in a statement after their video call. The situation between Israel and Palestine is worst in last 7 years with violence erupting at number of places. Violence at al-Aqsa mosque over the weekend has triggered unrest. Al Aqsa mosque is held to be a Holy place by Jews as well as Muslims. Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz on Thursday ordered a "massive reinforcement" in order to contain internal unrest rocking mixed Jewish and Arab communities within the country. In Gaza, 83 people were reportedly killed since Monday. This includes 17 children. The heavy bombardment has rocked Gaza and has brought entire tower blocks crumbling down. The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza targets more than 600 times, while Hamas had fired over 1,600 rockets towards Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine: UN chief Antonio Guterres, Vladimir Putin appeal for calm

It is hard for any Middle East peace accord to have an effect on ground until grievances of people in Palestine were addressed, former Deputy Foreign Minister of Yemen Mustapha Noman said on Wednesday at &nbsp;WION's Global Summit 2021 in Dubai.

"Unless the grievances of the people in Palestine are solved justly, I think any agreement that will happen in future will also not be reflected on the ground," he said.

Noman was speaking at a session titled Peace Deals &amp; the Shifting Sands of West Asia, specifically answering a question on the Abraham Accords on normalisation of ties between Israel and key Arab states.

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The Abraham Accords of 2020 resulted in normalisation of ties of Israel with Bahrain as well as UAE.

Bahrain and UAE became the key Arab states to establish ties with Israel after decades of enmity. &nbsp;The Abraham Accords were brokered by the US during last few months of Donald Trump's presidency.&nbsp;They were largely considered to be a thaw in frosty relations between Israel and Arab countries.

However, Mustapha Noman said that he was "not very optimistic".

"The issue will always be there unless we tackle the matter unless we really work hard towards a two-state solution," he said.

It is hard for any Middle East peace accord to have an effect on ground until grievances of people in Palestine were addressed, former Deputy Foreign Minister of Yemen Mustapha Noman said on Wednesday at WION's Global Summit 2021 in Dubai.

It is hard for any Middle East peace accord to have an effect on ground until grievances of people in Palestine were addressed, former Deputy Foreign Minister of Yemen Mustapha Noman said on Wednesday at WION's Global Summit 2021 in Dubai. "Unless the grievances of the people in Palestine are solved justly, I think any agreement that will happen in future will also not be reflected on the ground," he said. Noman was speaking at a session titled Peace Deals & the Shifting Sands of West Asia, specifically answering a question on the Abraham Accords on normalisation of ties between Israel and key Arab states. × The Abraham Accords of 2020 resulted in normalisation of ties of Israel with Bahrain as well as UAE. Bahrain and UAE became the key Arab states to establish ties with Israel after decades of enmity. The Abraham Accords were brokered by the US during last few months of Donald Trump's presidency. They were largely considered to be a thaw in frosty relations between Israel and Arab countries. However, Mustapha Noman said that he was "not very optimistic". "The issue will always be there unless we tackle the matter unless we really work hard towards a two-state solution," he said.

Addressing Palestinian grievances necessary: Former Yemen minister tells WION Global Summit

In power politics, enemies of today can be friends of tomorrow. More so&nbsp;on the shifting sands of West Asia, where marriages of convenience rule.

Here, historic shifts rarely take place without Israel’s involvement. So while its pledges to not go ahead with the annexation of one-third of the West Bank and the Jordan Valley was seen as cold comfort for the Palestinians, Ramallah was left weakened by the Gulf's growing support to peace efforts with Israel.

So where does it leave Palestine? Palestinian reaction, initially, had been to decry the UAE’s normalisation of ties with Israel. The Palestinian ambassador to the UAE was even recalled.

Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, deputy mayor of Jerusalem and a major policy maker of Israel, says this does not stand to halt the peace process in West Asia.

"Israel has, on more than one occasion, offered a solution and peace deal, and it has been the Palestinian rejectionism that has got us to the point," she said on Wednesday at the WION Global Summit in Dubai.

"We are not going to allow Palestinian rejectionism affect the process of peace in West Asia. People are going to gain most from tourism in Jerusalem," she told the session titled&nbsp;Peace Deals and the Shifting Sands of West Asia.

"It’s a gain-gain for all the populations in the region. What is the point in rejectionism while the entire Middle East is supporting the Abraham Accords? That's the bottom-line, peace is always good. The accords now have its own momentum," she said.

Ibrahim Shukralla, an Emirati news editor, said he hoped Israel would not resume the annexation plan as it would affect the peace plans.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-wion-global-summit-leaders-look-forward-to-joe-bidens-peace-initiatives-in-west-asia-372783">Also read |&nbsp;At WION Global Summit, leaders look forward to Joe Biden's peace initiatives in West Asia</a>

Mustapha Noman, former deputy foreign minister of Yemen, on his part, said, "I have been calling for recognition of Israelis and Arabs from 2000. This does not mean that recognition is the end of the story. It should be the start of the story. It is mainly between the Israelis and Palestinians since day one. The Arabs later became sentimental about their brothers. The normalisation of the four countries with Israel should be a boost for normalisation. I agree that the Palestinian leadership is not positive and that they are consuming it for their own personal interest. The new generation might have a different view and perspective. I agree with that. Israel is more powerful in that region and they have more responsibility. This is where Israel can take really strong steps."

But Jason D Greenblatt, an aide of former US president Donald Trump,&nbsp;&nbsp;who brokered the Israel-UAE deal, wants other issues to be looked at too.

"Yes, the Palestinian issue must be resolved. But that is a separate issue. We want to fix Yemen, Palestine and Syria. We should not club the issues together. The UAE offered help&nbsp;at the start of the pandemic for Palestinians, but they rejected it. We have to demand responsibility from Palestinian&nbsp;leadership as well. The issues of Palestine, Yemen and Syria shouldn't be mixed. They must be though fixed and resolved," he said.

"We did prove that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Israeli-Arab conflict, though intricately tied together, can indeed be separately solved - and that's essential for this region."

Noman added that the people of Palestine wanted peace. "We have to recognise that unless the grievances of the people of Palestine are solved justly, any agreement that happens in future will not be reflected on the ground."

The Palestinians currently remain subject to Israeli military occupation in the Gaza Strip, despite a little progress made towards a two-state solution with the 1993–95 Oslo Accords.

In power politics, enemies of today can be friends of tomorrow. More so on the shifting sands of West Asia, where marriages of convenience rule. Here, historic shifts rarely take place without Israel’s involvement.

In power politics, enemies of today can be friends of tomorrow. More so on the shifting sands of West Asia, where marriages of convenience rule. Here, historic shifts rarely take place without Israel’s involvement. So while its pledges to not go ahead with the annexation of one-third of the West Bank and the Jordan Valley was seen as cold comfort for the Palestinians, Ramallah was left weakened by the Gulf's growing support to peace efforts with Israel. So where does it leave Palestine? Palestinian reaction, initially, had been to decry the UAE’s normalisation of ties with Israel. The Palestinian ambassador to the UAE was even recalled. Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, deputy mayor of Jerusalem and a major policy maker of Israel, says this does not stand to halt the peace process in West Asia. "Israel has, on more than one occasion, offered a solution and peace deal, and it has been the Palestinian rejectionism that has got us to the point," she said on Wednesday at the WION Global Summit in Dubai. "We are not going to allow Palestinian rejectionism affect the process of peace in West Asia. People are going to gain most from tourism in Jerusalem," she told the session titled Peace Deals and the Shifting Sands of West Asia. "It’s a gain-gain for all the populations in the region. What is the point in rejectionism while the entire Middle East is supporting the Abraham Accords? That's the bottom-line, peace is always good. The accords now have its own momentum," she said. Ibrahim Shukralla, an Emirati news editor, said he hoped Israel would not resume the annexation plan as it would affect the peace plans. Also read | At WION Global Summit, leaders look forward to Joe Biden's peace initiatives in West Asia Mustapha Noman, former deputy foreign minister of Yemen, on his part, said, "I have been calling for recognition of Israelis and Arabs from 2000. This does not mean that recognition is the end of the story. It should be the start of the story. It is mainly between the Israelis and Palestinians since day one. The Arabs later became sentimental about their brothers. The normalisation of the four countries with Israel should be a boost for normalisation. I agree that the Palestinian leadership is not positive and that they are consuming it for their own personal interest. The new generation might have a different view and perspective. I agree with that. Israel is more powerful in that region and they have more responsibility. This is where Israel can take really strong steps." But Jason D Greenblatt, an aide of former US president Donald Trump, who brokered the Israel-UAE deal, wants other issues to be looked at too. "Yes, the Palestinian issue must be resolved. But that is a separate issue. We want to fix Yemen, Palestine and Syria. We should not club the issues together. The UAE offered help at the start of the pandemic for Palestinians, but they rejected it. We have to demand responsibility from Palestinian leadership as well. The issues of Palestine, Yemen and Syria shouldn't be mixed. They must be though fixed and resolved," he said. "We did prove that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Israeli-Arab conflict, though intricately tied together, can indeed be separately solved - and that's essential for this region." Noman added that the people of Palestine wanted peace. "We have to recognise that unless the grievances of the people of Palestine are solved justly, any agreement that happens in future will not be reflected on the ground." The Palestinians currently remain subject to Israeli military occupation in the Gaza Strip, despite a little progress made towards a two-state solution with the 1993–95 Oslo Accords.

At WION Global Summit, leaders discuss how Israel-Palestine conflict will affect West Asia peace

Vaccines are emerging as the new power tool in West Asia. As Israel inoculates more than half of its population, Palestine's vaccine plan is struggling with a funding gap. On the West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis looks at how vaccines are the new currency of choice in West Asia. For more such stories, keep watching the West Asia post with Ghadi Francis every Friday at 8:30 PM IST, only on WION.

The West Asia Post | Vaccines: New currency of choice in West Asia?

After a rocket attack from Palestinian enclave towards Israel on Tuesday night, Israeli tanks battered Hamas positions in Gaza.

"Late in the evening a rocket was launched from the Gaza Strip into Israeli territory," Israeli Army said. It was quoted by AFP.

"In response Israeli tanks struck Hamas positions" in the south of the Gaza strip, it said. &nbsp;

An earlier statement from Israeli military indicated that the rockets had fallen on open ground. There was no immediate report of casualties.

Early Monday, militants in the Gaza Strip fired two rockets towards the Israeli coastal city of Ashdod with Israeli military sources indicating they had dropped into the Mediterranean Sea.

Israel responded a few hours later with fighter planes striking Hamas facilities in southern Gaza.

Palestinians in Gaza and the Israeli-occupied West Bank are heading for legislative and presidential elections in May and July, the first in 15 years.

The polls are part of a warming of ties between Hamas and Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas's West Bank-based Fatah party.

The dates were announced on Friday in a presidential decree by Abbas.

In late December, Hamas and Islamic Jihad staged joint military exercises in the coastal territory, during which they fired rockets out to sea, in the first exercise of its kind.

The Palestinian forces also simulated various combat scenarios with Israeli troops, an AFP reporter said.

The events marked the anniversary of the first Hamas war with Israel in 2008, a year after the Islamists took power in Gaza. Since then they have fought two more wars, in 2012 and 2014.

(With AFP inputs)

After a rocket attack from Palestinian enclave towards Israel on Tuesday night, Israeli tanks battered Hamas positions in Gaza. "Late in the evening a rocket was launched from the Gaza Strip into Israeli territory," Israeli Army said.

After a rocket attack from Palestinian enclave towards Israel on Tuesday night, Israeli tanks battered Hamas positions in Gaza. "Late in the evening a rocket was launched from the Gaza Strip into Israeli territory," Israeli Army said. It was quoted by AFP. "In response Israeli tanks struck Hamas positions" in the south of the Gaza strip, it said. An earlier statement from Israeli military indicated that the rockets had fallen on open ground. There was no immediate report of casualties. Early Monday, militants in the Gaza Strip fired two rockets towards the Israeli coastal city of Ashdod with Israeli military sources indicating they had dropped into the Mediterranean Sea. Israel responded a few hours later with fighter planes striking Hamas facilities in southern Gaza. Palestinians in Gaza and the Israeli-occupied West Bank are heading for legislative and presidential elections in May and July, the first in 15 years. The polls are part of a warming of ties between Hamas and Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas's West Bank-based Fatah party. The dates were announced on Friday in a presidential decree by Abbas. In late December, Hamas and Islamic Jihad staged joint military exercises in the coastal territory, during which they fired rockets out to sea, in the first exercise of its kind. The Palestinian forces also simulated various combat scenarios with Israeli troops, an AFP reporter said. The events marked the anniversary of the first Hamas war with Israel in 2008, a year after the Islamists took power in Gaza. Since then they have fought two more wars, in 2012 and 2014. (With AFP inputs)

Israeli tanks strike Hamas after rocket attack: Military

Hundreds of mourners mourned the death of 15-year-old Palestinian boy at his funeral in West Bank on Saturday (December 5). The boy, Ali Abu Alia, was shot by an Israeli soldier on Friday.

Ali Abu Alia had been at a protest against Israeli settlements at al-Mughayyir village near Ramallah, where stones were thrown at Israeli soldiers.

The boy was hit by a bullet in his abdomen. He was taken to hospital in Ramallah, where he died.

Israeli military has denied using live ammunition. It said only rubber bullets were used.

The United Nations' Middle East envoy, Nickolay Mladenov, said he was appalled by the killing. "Israel must swiftly and independently investigate this shocking and unacceptable incident," he tweeted.

(With Reuters inputs)

Hundreds of mourners mourned the death of 15-year-old Palestinian boy at his funeral in West Bank on Saturday (December 5). The boy, Ali Abu Alia, was shot by an Israeli soldier on Friday.

Hundreds of mourners mourned the death of 15-year-old Palestinian boy at his funeral in West Bank on Saturday (December 5). The boy, Ali Abu Alia, was shot by an Israeli soldier on Friday. Ali Abu Alia had been at a protest against Israeli settlements at al-Mughayyir village near Ramallah, where stones were thrown at Israeli soldiers. The boy was hit by a bullet in his abdomen. He was taken to hospital in Ramallah, where he died. Israeli military has denied using live ammunition. It said only rubber bullets were used. The United Nations' Middle East envoy, Nickolay Mladenov, said he was appalled by the killing. "Israel must swiftly and independently investigate this shocking and unacceptable incident," he tweeted. (With Reuters inputs)

Hundreds gather for funeral of Palestinian teenager shot dead by Israeli soldier

A Palestinian teenager was killed on Friday in clashes with the Israeli army on the sidelines of a protest in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian health ministry said.

Ali Ayman Nasr Abu Aliya, 13, "succumbed to his wounds after he was shot with live rounds in the stomach" during clashes north of Ramallah, the ministry said in a statement.

The youth was hit during a demonstration in the village of Mughayir and was transported in critical condition to a hospital in Ramallah, where he died, it said.

UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov said in a tweet he was "appalled by the killing."

"Israel must swiftly and independently investigate this shocking and unacceptable incident," he added.

The Palestinian foreign ministry said it would prosecute Israel at the International Criminal Court over the shooting "to ultimately hold Israeli war criminals to account", the official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported.

The Palestinian Authority condemned "the cold-blooded murder" describing it in a statement as "the latest episode in Israel's crimes against the Palestinian people".

Mughayir mayor Amin Abu Aliya, quoted by WAFA, said the Israeli army had "violently dispersed" the protest against the establishment of an Israeli settlement in the area.

Four other people were wounded by Israeli army fire, WAFA reported.

The army denied live rounds were used, but said it was "aware of reports regarding a number of injured rioters and a Palestinian casualty".

An army spokesperson told AFP dozens of protesters had thrown rocks at security forces.

"Rioters attempted to roll boulders and burning tyres from ridges above the Allon road, endangering the lives of civilians on the route," she said.

"Security forces prevented the rioters from blocking the road and responded with riot dispersal means."

The Palestinian village of Mughayir is located near several Israeli settlements and has been the site of clashes between Palestinians and Israeli settlers in the past.

It is also near the Ras al-Teen area, where Israel has threatened to demolish a school, a move condemned in early November by the European Union, which co-funded its construction.

Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967.

More than 450,000 Israelis live in settlements in the territory, home to more than 2.8 million Palestinians.

A Palestinian teenager was killed on Friday in clashes with the Israeli army on the sidelines of a protest in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian health ministry said.

A Palestinian teenager was killed on Friday in clashes with the Israeli army on the sidelines of a protest in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian health ministry said. Ali Ayman Nasr Abu Aliya, 13, "succumbed to his wounds after he was shot with live rounds in the stomach" during clashes north of Ramallah, the ministry said in a statement. The youth was hit during a demonstration in the village of Mughayir and was transported in critical condition to a hospital in Ramallah, where he died, it said. UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov said in a tweet he was "appalled by the killing." "Israel must swiftly and independently investigate this shocking and unacceptable incident," he added. The Palestinian foreign ministry said it would prosecute Israel at the International Criminal Court over the shooting "to ultimately hold Israeli war criminals to account", the official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported. The Palestinian Authority condemned "the cold-blooded murder" describing it in a statement as "the latest episode in Israel's crimes against the Palestinian people". Mughayir mayor Amin Abu Aliya, quoted by WAFA, said the Israeli army had "violently dispersed" the protest against the establishment of an Israeli settlement in the area. Four other people were wounded by Israeli army fire, WAFA reported. The army denied live rounds were used, but said it was "aware of reports regarding a number of injured rioters and a Palestinian casualty". An army spokesperson told AFP dozens of protesters had thrown rocks at security forces. "Rioters attempted to roll boulders and burning tyres from ridges above the Allon road, endangering the lives of civilians on the route," she said. "Security forces prevented the rioters from blocking the road and responded with riot dispersal means." The Palestinian village of Mughayir is located near several Israeli settlements and has been the site of clashes between Palestinians and Israeli settlers in the past. It is also near the Ras al-Teen area, where Israel has threatened to demolish a school, a move condemned in early November by the European Union, which co-funded its construction. Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967. More than 450,000 Israelis live in settlements in the territory, home to more than 2.8 million Palestinians.

Teen killed in clashes with Israeli army, Palestine says

Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Thursday held a rare meeting with Israel foreign minister to press for restarting Israel-Palestine negotiations. The meeting came on the heels of Palestinian Authority leader Mahmud Abbas' visit to Jordan as part of and Arab tour to shore up support for Palestine.

Jordanian foreign minister, during the meeting at the King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge crossing between Jordan and the Israeli-occupied West Bank said the creation of an independent Palestinian state was key to ending the conflict with Israel.

"There is no alternative to a two-state solution" between Israel and the Palestinians, he told Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi, quoted by the official Petra news agency.

"It is necessary to return to the negotiating table according to international law in order to find a real solution to achieve a just peace," Safadi said.

On Friday, Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz called on the Palestinians to return to the negotiating table, in a video statement addressing the "Palestinian people and their leadership".

"The Middle East is changing. It is in your interest to come return to negotiate," Gantz said in the statement that was posted online with Arabic subtitles.

"Don't stay behind," he said, promising to "promote big projects" in the Israeli-blockaded Gaza Strip. 
Thursday's meeting was the first with Jordan officially reported between Safadi and Ashkenazi since the latter, a former army chief of staff, become foreign minister in May.

Jordan and Israel have been bound by a peace treaty since 1994, but relations between the two neighbours are often tense.

Eyes on Biden

Safadi said resuming Israeli- Palestinian talks was timely, "particularly in light of the Palestinian Authority's decision to resume security cooperation with Israel".

The Palestinians announced last month they were restoring coordination that they had stopped in May over Israeli plans to annex parts of the West Bank.

Israel put on hold its annexation plans, in return for an agreement to normalise ties with the United Arab Emirates announced in August.

Abbas held talks in Jordan last week with King Abdullah II ahead of visits to Egypt, where he met separately with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Arab League chief Ahmed Aboul Gheit.

During the tour, Arab leaders stepped up international efforts for a solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict based on a two-state solution.

Talks between Israel and the Palestinians have been frozen since 2014, and a US peace plan announced in January has been welcomed by Israel but rejected outright by the Palestinians as biased.

The plan was among moves pushed by President Donald Trump -- including recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's "undivided capital"-- that have angered the Palestinians.

The Palestinians, who want to set up an independent state with east Jerusalem as its capital, broke ties with the Trump administration, and are now hoping to build ties with Biden's incoming team.

(With AFP inputs)

Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Thursday held a rare meeting with Israel foreign minister to press for restarting Israel-Palestine negotiations. The meeting came on the heels of Palestinian Authority leader Mahmud Abbas' visit to Jordan as part of and Arab tour to shore up support for Palestine.

Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Thursday held a rare meeting with Israel foreign minister to press for restarting Israel-Palestine negotiations. The meeting came on the heels of Palestinian Authority leader Mahmud Abbas' visit to Jordan as part of and Arab tour to shore up support for Palestine. Jordanian foreign minister, during the meeting at the King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge crossing between Jordan and the Israeli-occupied West Bank said the creation of an independent Palestinian state was key to ending the conflict with Israel. "There is no alternative to a two-state solution" between Israel and the Palestinians, he told Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi, quoted by the official Petra news agency. "It is necessary to return to the negotiating table according to international law in order to find a real solution to achieve a just peace," Safadi said. On Friday, Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz called on the Palestinians to return to the negotiating table, in a video statement addressing the "Palestinian people and their leadership". "The Middle East is changing. It is in your interest to come return to negotiate," Gantz said in the statement that was posted online with Arabic subtitles. "Don't stay behind," he said, promising to "promote big projects" in the Israeli-blockaded Gaza Strip. Thursday's meeting was the first with Jordan officially reported between Safadi and Ashkenazi since the latter, a former army chief of staff, become foreign minister in May. Jordan and Israel have been bound by a peace treaty since 1994, but relations between the two neighbours are often tense. Eyes on Biden Safadi said resuming Israeli- Palestinian talks was timely, "particularly in light of the Palestinian Authority's decision to resume security cooperation with Israel". The Palestinians announced last month they were restoring coordination that they had stopped in May over Israeli plans to annex parts of the West Bank. Israel put on hold its annexation plans, in return for an agreement to normalise ties with the United Arab Emirates announced in August. Abbas held talks in Jordan last week with King Abdullah II ahead of visits to Egypt, where he met separately with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Arab League chief Ahmed Aboul Gheit. During the tour, Arab leaders stepped up international efforts for a solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict based on a two-state solution. Talks between Israel and the Palestinians have been frozen since 2014, and a US peace plan announced in January has been welcomed by Israel but rejected outright by the Palestinians as biased. The plan was among moves pushed by President Donald Trump -- including recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's "undivided capital"-- that have angered the Palestinians. The Palestinians, who want to set up an independent state with east Jerusalem as its capital, broke ties with the Trump administration, and are now hoping to build ties with Biden's incoming team. (With AFP inputs)

Jordan, Israel go in huddle on Palestine issue

The EU on Thursday called on Israel to cease demolishing Palestinian homes in the occupied West Bank and lift a threat to demolish Palestinian schools, calling them "an impediment towards the two-state solution".

The statement, issued by the spokesman for EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, came two days after Israeli bulldozers razed a Bedouin village near Tubas in the Jordan Valley, leaving its nearly 80 inhabitants homeless.

Israel's army stated the homes were "built illegally" in an area used for military training.&nbsp;

The EU statement said that half the Palestinians made homeless in the demolition were children.

"This large-scale demolition confirms once again the regrettable trend of confiscations and demolitions since the beginning of the year," it said.

It added that Israel has also threatened to raze 52 Palestinian schools, including one in Ras Al-Teen in the West Bank that was co-funded by the EU and EU member states.

"The EU calls for the protection of children, including ensuring their right to education in a safe and secure school environment," the statement said, noting that education is a basic human right.

"The EU reiterates its call on Israel to halt all such demolitions, including of EU-funded structures, in particular in light of the humanitarian impact of the current coronavirus pandemic," it said.

The EU on Thursday called on Israel to cease demolishing Palestinian homes in the occupied West Bank and lift a threat to demolish Palestinian schools, calling them "an impediment towards the two-state solution".

The EU on Thursday called on Israel to cease demolishing Palestinian homes in the occupied West Bank and lift a threat to demolish Palestinian schools, calling them "an impediment towards the two-state solution". The statement, issued by the spokesman for EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, came two days after Israeli bulldozers razed a Bedouin village near Tubas in the Jordan Valley, leaving its nearly 80 inhabitants homeless. Israel's army stated the homes were "built illegally" in an area used for military training. The EU statement said that half the Palestinians made homeless in the demolition were children. "This large-scale demolition confirms once again the regrettable trend of confiscations and demolitions since the beginning of the year," it said. It added that Israel has also threatened to raze 52 Palestinian schools, including one in Ras Al-Teen in the West Bank that was co-funded by the EU and EU member states. "The EU calls for the protection of children, including ensuring their right to education in a safe and secure school environment," the statement said, noting that education is a basic human right. "The EU reiterates its call on Israel to halt all such demolitions, including of EU-funded structures, in particular in light of the humanitarian impact of the current coronavirus pandemic," it said.

EU calls for halt to Israeli demolition of Palestinian buildings

Encouraging the United States' efforts to establish peace in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia’s King Salman has told US President Donald Trump that they wanted a fair and permanent solution to the Palestinian issue based on kingdom's Arab Peace Initiative, proposed in 2002, according to the state news agency.&nbsp;

In a telephonic conservation with Trump, Salman appreciated US peace initiatives, in a reference to Washington-brokered accord achieved last month, according to which the United Arab Emirates (UAE) became the third country to normalise relations with Israel.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peace-must-be-achieved-with-palestinians-then-all-things-possible-saudi-arabia-on-israel-321749">Peace must be achieved with Palestinians, then all things possible: Saudi Arabia on Israel</a>

Salman said Saudi seeks a fair and permanent solution for Palestine which is based on the based on the kingdom's peace initiatives proposed in 2002.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-emir-tells-kushner-two-state-solution-needed-to-end-palestine-israel-conflict-324831">Qatar Emir tells Kushner two-state solution needed to end Palestine-Israel conflict</a>

As per the 2002 proposal, Arab nations would normalise ties with Israel, if the Jewish nation withdraws from the territorial gains made in the 1967 war.&nbsp;

Despite not recognising Israel, Saudi Arabia this month said the kingdom would allow the use of its airspace to run flights between UAE and Israel.&nbsp;

Post the peace accord between UAE and Israel, no Arab state has hinted of a similar deal with the Jewish state.

Last month, Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, who is seen as a major negotiator of the decades-old Arab crisis, met Saudi's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, where they discussed the need to resume negotiations between Israel and Palestine.&nbsp;

(With Reuters inputs)

Encouraging the United States' efforts to establish peace in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia’s King Salman has told US President Donald Trump that they wanted a fair and permanent solution to the Palestinian issue based on kingdom's Arab Peace Initiative, proposed in 2002, according to the state news agency.

Encouraging the United States' efforts to establish peace in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia’s King Salman has told US President Donald Trump that they wanted a fair and permanent solution to the Palestinian issue based on kingdom's Arab Peace Initiative, proposed in 2002, according to the state news agency. In a telephonic conservation with Trump, Salman appreciated US peace initiatives, in a reference to Washington-brokered accord achieved last month, according to which the United Arab Emirates (UAE) became the third country to normalise relations with Israel. Also read | Peace must be achieved with Palestinians, then all things possible: Saudi Arabia on Israel Salman said Saudi seeks a fair and permanent solution for Palestine which is based on the based on the kingdom's peace initiatives proposed in 2002. Also read | Qatar Emir tells Kushner two-state solution needed to end Palestine-Israel conflict As per the 2002 proposal, Arab nations would normalise ties with Israel, if the Jewish nation withdraws from the territorial gains made in the 1967 war. Despite not recognising Israel, Saudi Arabia this month said the kingdom would allow the use of its airspace to run flights between UAE and Israel. Post the peace accord between UAE and Israel, no Arab state has hinted of a similar deal with the Jewish state. Last month, Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, who is seen as a major negotiator of the decades-old Arab crisis, met Saudi's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, where they discussed the need to resume negotiations between Israel and Palestine. (With Reuters inputs)

Want permanent, fair solution to Palestinian issue: Saudi King to Trump

UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab planned to press Israel and the Palestinians to renew negotiations.

UK Foreign Secretary arrives to push for Israeli-Palestinian talks

Israel on Tuesday closed one of its main border crossings with the Gaza Strip after Palestinians launched incendiary balloons that set fire to areas on the Israeli frontier.

Israel closes Gaza crossing after Palestinians launch incendiary balloons

Months of calmness was broken in Israel as&nbsp;Palestinian militants fired two rockets in the Gaza Strip, as claimed by Israeli military on Friday.

In response, Israeli aircraft attacked two military facilities for Hamas, the Islamic group ruling Gaza.

The attack from the Palestinian side came a day after&nbsp;Hamas warned of violence over Israeli plans to annex parts of the occupied West Bank.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-prime-minister-netanyahu-announces-cooperation-with-uae-to-combat-coronavirus-308634">Also read:&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announces 'cooperation' with UAE to combat coronavirus</a>

Although the Israeli military has declared the attack was from Hamas, no Palestinian militant group has yet claimed responsibility for the rocket attacks.

The Hamas group had earlier this week warned of violent retaliation if Israel continued to proceed ahead with the much-controversial&nbsp;annexation plans. The group believes such a move amounts to "a declaration of war".

The Israeli military has now said that the rocket attacks "will impede" Hamas' future abilities.

Before this attack, the&nbsp;Gaza-Israel frontier&nbsp;has remained calmed for this year, which the experts believe might have been due to the threat of the novel coronavirus.

(With inputs from PTI)

Months of calmness was broken in Israel as Palestinian militants fired two rockets in the Gaza Strip, as claimed by Israeli military on Friday. In response, Israeli aircraft attacked two military facilities for Hamas, the Islamic group ruling Gaza.

Months of calmness was broken in Israel as Palestinian militants fired two rockets in the Gaza Strip, as claimed by Israeli military on Friday. In response, Israeli aircraft attacked two military facilities for Hamas, the Islamic group ruling Gaza. The attack from the Palestinian side came a day after Hamas warned of violence over Israeli plans to annex parts of the occupied West Bank. Also read: Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announces 'cooperation' with UAE to combat coronavirus Although the Israeli military has declared the attack was from Hamas, no Palestinian militant group has yet claimed responsibility for the rocket attacks. The Hamas group had earlier this week warned of violent retaliation if Israel continued to proceed ahead with the much-controversial annexation plans. The group believes such a move amounts to "a declaration of war". The Israeli military has now said that the rocket attacks "will impede" Hamas' future abilities. Before this attack, the Gaza-Israel frontier has remained calmed for this year, which the experts believe might have been due to the threat of the novel coronavirus. (With inputs from PTI)

Southern Israel hit by two rockets from Gaza: Israel military

Soaring temperatures sent Israelis to beaches across the country on Sunday (May 17) with many violating the coronavirus restrictions. Some areas in the country and Israeli-occupied West Bank exceeded 40 degrees Celsius in the country's first seasonal heatwave.

People flock to beaches as Israel, West Bank bake in heatwave

The International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor said on Friday that there is a "reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation" on the alleged war crimes committed in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-president-mahmoud-abbas-points-finger-at-netanyahu-trump-administration-at-unga-252447">Palestine</a>, in a statement which got sharp reactions from the United States and Israel.&nbsp;

The Palestinians welcomed the step and described it as "long overdue" after a nearly five-year preliminary probe by the prosecutor into the situation since the 2014 war in Gaza.

"I am satisfied that there is a reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation into the situation in Palestine," ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said in a statement.

"In brief, I am satisfied that war crimes have been or are being committed in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip."

She also asked ICC to rule on the territory over which it has jurisdiction because of the "unique and highly contested legal and factual issues attaching to this situation" before launching a full probe.&nbsp;

I don't require any authorisation from judges to open a probe as there had been a referral from the Palestinians, she further added.

After the prosecutor's statements, the US &nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that they oppose this move and any action that seeks to target Israel "unfairly".&nbsp;

Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu slammed that statements and called it a "dark day for truth and justice".&nbsp;

"The ICC prosecutor's decision has turned the International Criminal Court into a political tool to delegitimise the State of Israel," Netanyahu said.

Palestine, on the other hand,&nbsp;praised the step and in a statement said: "a long overdue step to move the process forward towards an investigation, after nearly five long and difficult years of preliminary examination". &nbsp;

The International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor said on Friday that there is a "reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation" on the alleged war crimes committed in Palestine, in a statement which got sharp reactions from the United States and Israel.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor said on Friday that there is a "reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation" on the alleged war crimes committed in Palestine, in a statement which got sharp reactions from the United States and Israel. The Palestinians welcomed the step and described it as "long overdue" after a nearly five-year preliminary probe by the prosecutor into the situation since the 2014 war in Gaza. "I am satisfied that there is a reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation into the situation in Palestine," ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said in a statement. "In brief, I am satisfied that war crimes have been or are being committed in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip." She also asked ICC to rule on the territory over which it has jurisdiction because of the "unique and highly contested legal and factual issues attaching to this situation" before launching a full probe. I don't require any authorisation from judges to open a probe as there had been a referral from the Palestinians, she further added. After the prosecutor's statements, the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that they oppose this move and any action that seeks to target Israel "unfairly". Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu slammed that statements and called it a "dark day for truth and justice". "The ICC prosecutor's decision has turned the International Criminal Court into a political tool to delegitimise the State of Israel," Netanyahu said. Palestine, on the other hand, praised the step and in a statement said: "a long overdue step to move the process forward towards an investigation, after nearly five long and difficult years of preliminary examination".

International Criminal Court to probe alleged war crimes in Palestinian territories

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday to prohibit federal funding for colleges and universities that allow <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-jews-confront-rising-tide-of-anti-semitism-174320">anti-Semitism</a>, but the move drew some criticism for potentially limiting free speech.

The order would extend protections against discrimination under the 1964 Civil Rights Act to people subjected to anti-Semitism on college campuses.

"This is our message to universities: If you want to accept the tremendous amount of federal dollars that you get every year, you must reject anti-Semitism. It's very simple," Trump said during a Hanukkah reception at the White House.

Title 6 of the Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, colour, and national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance.

"This action makes clear that Title 6 of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits the federal funding of universities and other institutions that engage in discrimination, applies to institutions that traffic in anti-Semitic hate," Trump said.

J Street, a liberal Jewish-American lobbying group, criticized the order.

"This executive order, like the stalled congressional legislation it is based on, appears designed less to combat anti-Semitism than to have a chilling effect on free speech and to crack down on campus critics of Israel," it said in a statement.

The Anti-Defamation League, which tracks acts of racism, welcomed the order.

"In a climate of rising anti-Semitism, this executive order provides valuable guidance on anti-Semitism, giving law enforcement and campus officials an important additional tool to help identify and fight this pernicious hate," Chief Executive Jonathan Greenblatt said.

"It also reaffirms protection of Jews under Title VI without infringing on First Amendment rights," he said in a statement.

The pro-Palestinian Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement over Israel’s policies towards Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip has gained support among some university students in recent years.

The movement, however, has received a bipartisan rebuke in the US&nbsp;Congress and many states have passed anti-BDS measures.Amid criticism, Trump signs order targeting anti-Semitism at universities

Some critics argue that participating in boycotts is protected by Americans' constitutional right to free speech and that legitimate criticism of Israeli policies could be stifled under the name of combating anti-Semitism.

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday to prohibit federal funding for colleges and universities that allow anti-Semitism, but the move drew some criticism for potentially limiting free speech.

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday to prohibit federal funding for colleges and universities that allow anti-Semitism, but the move drew some criticism for potentially limiting free speech. The order would extend protections against discrimination under the 1964 Civil Rights Act to people subjected to anti-Semitism on college campuses. "This is our message to universities: If you want to accept the tremendous amount of federal dollars that you get every year, you must reject anti-Semitism. It's very simple," Trump said during a Hanukkah reception at the White House. Title 6 of the Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, colour, and national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. "This action makes clear that Title 6 of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits the federal funding of universities and other institutions that engage in discrimination, applies to institutions that traffic in anti-Semitic hate," Trump said. J Street, a liberal Jewish-American lobbying group, criticized the order. "This executive order, like the stalled congressional legislation it is based on, appears designed less to combat anti-Semitism than to have a chilling effect on free speech and to crack down on campus critics of Israel," it said in a statement. The Anti-Defamation League, which tracks acts of racism, welcomed the order. "In a climate of rising anti-Semitism, this executive order provides valuable guidance on anti-Semitism, giving law enforcement and campus officials an important additional tool to help identify and fight this pernicious hate," Chief Executive Jonathan Greenblatt said. "It also reaffirms protection of Jews under Title VI without infringing on First Amendment rights," he said in a statement. The pro-Palestinian Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement over Israel’s policies towards Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip has gained support among some university students in recent years. The movement, however, has received a bipartisan rebuke in the US Congress and many states have passed anti-BDS measures.Amid criticism, Trump signs order targeting anti-Semitism at universities Some critics argue that participating in boycotts is protected by Americans' constitutional right to free speech and that legitimate criticism of Israeli policies could be stifled under the name of combating anti-Semitism.

Amid criticism, Trump signs order targeting anti-Semitism at universities

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