The bodies of four Israeli hostages were handed over by Hamas in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, days before the first phase of the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip will end. Watch this report for more details!

Hamas returns bodies of 4 hostages, Israel frees Palestinian prisoners

Hamas has handed over the bodies of four Israeli hostages as Israel begins the identification process. In response, Israel has released hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, with buses carrying them arriving in Ramallah. The exchange marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict.

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas returns hostage bodies as Israel frees prisoners

Hamas Hands Over Bodies Of 4 Hostages in exchange of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners

Israel launched a fresh wave of airstrikes on what it said were military sites inside Syria. Is Benjamin Netanyahu searching for another conflict zone WION's Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Israel launches air strikes, provokes Syria

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Wednesday (Feb 26) that the Palestinian militant group Hamas will return four dead hostages tonight, without a ceremony.&nbsp;
Hamas's military wing earlier said that the handover of the bodies of the slain hostages will likely happen tonight at 11 pm local time.
Meanwhile, the Hamas-affiliated Prisoners&rsquo; Information Office in Gaza said that the Gaza European Hospital in Khan Younis is preparing to receive freed Palestinian prisoners, and they are &ldquo;expected to arrive between 10 pm and midnight.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bibas-family-calls-on-israeli-officials-to-take-responsiblity-for-hostage-deaths-there-is-no-meaning-to-forgiveness-8759225">Bibas family calls on Israeli officials to take responsiblity for hostage deaths; 'no meaning to forgiveness'</a>
<h2>'No ceremony'</h2>
&ldquo;The handover will take place without public presence to prevent the occupation from finding any pretext for delay or obstruction,&rdquo; the Hamas official said.&nbsp;
The Palestinian militant group is expected to hand over Tsahi Idan, Ohad Yahalomi, Itzik Elgarat, and Shlomo Mantzur, the last four abductees, believed to be dead, included in the first phase of the hostage deal, which will end on Saturday.
The hostage release will happen simultaneously with Israel freeing 602 Palestinian security prisoners, whose release has been held up since Saturday to protect Hamas' propaganda displays and demeaning ceremonies during the handover of hostages.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostage-bodies-to-be-exchanged-for-palestinian-prisoners-as-tel-aviv-agrees-to-resume-swap-8757150">Israeli hostage bodies to be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners as Tel Aviv agrees to resume swap</a>
An Israeli official told The Times of Israel that the bodies will be handed over to the Egyptians, who will then transfer them to Israel.&nbsp;
Since the final stage of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-begin-negotiations-on-second-phase-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-demands-complete-demilitarisation-8732546">ceasefire</a>, Hamas has handed over 25 hostages alive in public ceremonies that often paraded, humiliated, and sometimes even endangered the captives, drawing widespread criticism.&nbsp;
The Palestinian militant group also handed over the bodies of four slain hostages after first displaying the coffins on stage in front of a large crowd.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-murdered-10-month-old-kfir-and-4-year-old-ariel-bibas-with-bare-hands-alleges-israel-family-says-yet-to-receive-official-info-8747053">Hamas murdered young hostages? Israel claims 'terrorists' killed 10-month-old Kfir and 4-year-old Ariel Bibas with 'bare hands'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Hamas's military wing earlier said that the handover of the bodies of the slain hostages will likely happen tonight at 11 pm local time.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Wednesday (Feb 26) that the Palestinian militant group Hamas will return four dead hostages tonight, without a ceremony. Hamas's military wing earlier said that the handover of the bodies of the slain hostages will likely happen tonight at 11 pm local time. Meanwhile, the Hamas-affiliated Prisoners’ Information Office in Gaza said that the Gaza European Hospital in Khan Younis is preparing to receive freed Palestinian prisoners, and they are “expected to arrive between 10 pm and midnight.” Also read: Bibas family calls on Israeli officials to take responsiblity for hostage deaths; 'no meaning to forgiveness' 'No ceremony' “The handover will take place without public presence to prevent the occupation from finding any pretext for delay or obstruction,” the Hamas official said. The Palestinian militant group is expected to hand over Tsahi Idan, Ohad Yahalomi, Itzik Elgarat, and Shlomo Mantzur, the last four abductees, believed to be dead, included in the first phase of the hostage deal, which will end on Saturday. The hostage release will happen simultaneously with Israel freeing 602 Palestinian security prisoners, whose release has been held up since Saturday to protect Hamas' propaganda displays and demeaning ceremonies during the handover of hostages. Also read: Israeli hostage bodies to be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners as Tel Aviv agrees to resume swap An Israeli official told The Times of Israel that the bodies will be handed over to the Egyptians, who will then transfer them to Israel. Since the final stage of the ceasefire, Hamas has handed over 25 hostages alive in public ceremonies that often paraded, humiliated, and sometimes even endangered the captives, drawing widespread criticism. The Palestinian militant group also handed over the bodies of four slain hostages after first displaying the coffins on stage in front of a large crowd. Also read: Hamas murdered young hostages? Israel claims 'terrorists' killed 10-month-old Kfir and 4-year-old Ariel Bibas with 'bare hands' (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu

Israel carried out airstrikes targeting military sites in southern Syria early Tuesday, days after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for the region’s demilitarisation. Watch this report for more details!

Israel strikes military sites in Southern Syria, two killed

After weeks of stalled negotiations, Israel and Hamas have reportedly reached a breakthrough in their prisoner swap deal. Egypt played a crucial role in brokering the agreement, which will see Palestinian prisoners released in exchange for Israeli hostages. Meanwhile, tensions continue to rise in the region as security concerns mount.

Israel, Hamas reach deal to end swap impasse

Israel-Hamas prisoner swap deal reached after intense talks

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, "There will be no possibility of direct talks" with the US amid fears of attacks on nuclear sites by Israel and the US.
In other news, Pope Francis approved the canonisation of two new saints, carrying out his papal duties from his hospital bed as he battles double pneumonia.
Meanwhile, ousted South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol justified his declaration of martial law, saying the country was facing an "existential crisis".
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-possibility-of-direct-talks-iran-on-high-alert-amid-fears-of-attacks-on-nuclear-sites-by-us-israel-8756336">'No possibility of direct talks': Iran on 'high alert' amid fears of attacks on nuclear sites by US, Israel</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/25/UQf0j560T1ieSiVfHOfB.png" alt=" Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian and US President Donald Trump Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Tuesday (Feb 25) ruled out the possibility of direct talks with the United States on the nuclear issue.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-approves-canonization-of-two-new-saints-from-hospital-bed-amid-pneumonia-recovery-8756645">Pope Francis approves canonisation of two new saints from hospital bed amid pneumonia recovery</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/25/upaY67r1xLeabWb6W9nT.jpg" alt=" Pope Francis approves canonization of two new saints from hospital bed amid pneumonia recovery Photograph: (AFP) ">
Pope Francis approved the canonisation of two new saints as he continued to carry out his papal duties from his hospital bed, the Vatican said on Tuesday (Feb 25).
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yoon-says-s-korea-was-facing-existential-crisis-when-he-declared-martial-law-8756112">Yoon says South Korea was facing &lsquo;existential crisis&rsquo; when he declared martial law</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/25/wlinb2e25GSOGJSlBGcG.jpg" alt=" Yoon says South Korea was facing 'existential crisis' when he declared martial law Photograph: (AFP) ">
Ousted president Yoon Suk Yeol, on Tuesday (Jan 25), said that South Korea was facing an "existential crisis" when he declared martial law as he faced the final day of impeachment hearings that could formally remove him from office.
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As the US and Russia have been mending their relationship, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasised that Russia and the US have a long way to go to restore trust after all the difficulties in the past few years, TASS reported.&nbsp;
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A massive data breach at a US employee screening company has exposed the personal information of over 3.3 million Americans.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-gainbitcoin-scam-cbi-conducts-searches-at-over-60-locations-in-75726-mn-cryptocurrency-scam-8756583">What is GainBitcoin case? CBI conducts searches at over 60 locations in $757.26 million cryptocurrency scam</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/25/3LnJF5ucO06ozKMkXAP2.png" alt=" Representative Image Photograph: (PTI) ">
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday conducted searches at 60 locations across India as part of its probe into the USD 757.26 million GainBitcoin cryptocurrency scam, officials said.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/conman-sukesh-chandrashekhar-writes-to-elon-musk-offers-to-invest-2-billion-in-x-8756607">Conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar writes to Elon Musk, offers to invest $2 billion in X</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/13/zIK6sJJwhe0IbQFbJQqV.jpg" alt=" File photo of Conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar wrote a letter addressed to Elon Musk, expressing his desire to invest $2 billion in the billionaire&rsquo;s X platform.&nbsp;
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A 40-year-old Colombian man was arrested at Cartagena's Rafael Nunez International Airport for trying to smuggle cocaine while boarding a flight to Amsterdam. The drugs were hidden under a toupee he was wearing.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/preity-zinta-slams-kerala-congress-over-fake-18-cr-loan-news-no-one-wrote-off-anything-shame-on-you-8755260">Preity Zinta slams Congress&rsquo; Kerala unit over fake Rs 180 million loan news: &lsquo;Shame on you&rsquo;</a>
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Preity Zinta will not tolerate any wrong words against her. On Tuesday (Feb 25), the Bollywood actress slammed a post shared by the Congress party's Kerala unit, claiming that her huge loan was written off by the BJP.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ace-shuttler-lakshya-sen-caught-in-age-fraud-case-know-details-8755917">Ace shuttler Lakshya Sen caught in age fraud case - Know details</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/15/EwmHjJ12OqACAJu7U9AU.png" alt=" Lakshya Sen in action Photograph: (AFP) ">
Lakshya Sen, one of India&rsquo;s brightest badminton stars, has found himself embroiled in a legal battle over allegations of age fraud. The controversy, which first surfaced in the early 2010s, centres around claims that Sen and his brother, Chirag Sen, falsified their birth records to compete in junior badminton tournaments. The accusations have since escalated into a full-fledged legal case, bringing the Indian sports ecosystem&rsquo;s age verification system under scrutiny.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Stay informed with our selection of leading global news stories, providing breaking updates and thorough analysis on a wide range of regions and subjects.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, "There will be no possibility of direct talks" with the US amid fears of attacks on nuclear sites by Israel and the US. In other news, Pope Francis approved the canonisation of two new saints, carrying out his papal duties from his hospital bed as he battles double pneumonia. Meanwhile, ousted South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol justified his declaration of martial law, saying the country was facing an "existential crisis". Click on the headlines for more 'No possibility of direct talks': Iran on 'high alert' amid fears of attacks on nuclear sites by US, Israel Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Tuesday (Feb 25) ruled out the possibility of direct talks with the United States on the nuclear issue. Pope Francis approves canonisation of two new saints from hospital bed amid pneumonia recovery Pope Francis approved the canonisation of two new saints as he continued to carry out his papal duties from his hospital bed, the Vatican said on Tuesday (Feb 25). Yoon says South Korea was facing ‘existential crisis’ when he declared martial law Ousted president Yoon Suk Yeol, on Tuesday (Jan 25), said that South Korea was facing an "existential crisis" when he declared martial law as he faced the final day of impeachment hearings that could formally remove him from office. ‘Need to go a long way’: Kremlin warns of long road to rebuilding US-Russia trust As the US and Russia have been mending their relationship, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasised that Russia and the US have a long way to go to restore trust after all the difficulties in the past few years, TASS reported. Sensitive data of 3 million exposed in massive breach at US screening company A massive data breach at a US employee screening company has exposed the personal information of over 3.3 million Americans. What is GainBitcoin case? CBI conducts searches at over 60 locations in $757.26 million cryptocurrency scam The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday conducted searches at 60 locations across India as part of its probe into the USD 757.26 million GainBitcoin cryptocurrency scam, officials said. Conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar writes to Elon Musk, offers to invest $2 billion in X Conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar wrote a letter addressed to Elon Musk, expressing his desire to invest $2 billion in the billionaire’s X platform. Watch | Colombian man arrested for trying to smuggle cocaine worth $10400 hidden in wig A 40-year-old Colombian man was arrested at Cartagena's Rafael Nunez International Airport for trying to smuggle cocaine while boarding a flight to Amsterdam. The drugs were hidden under a toupee he was wearing. Preity Zinta slams Congress’ Kerala unit over fake Rs 180 million loan news: ‘Shame on you’ Preity Zinta will not tolerate any wrong words against her. On Tuesday (Feb 25), the Bollywood actress slammed a post shared by the Congress party's Kerala unit, claiming that her huge loan was written off by the BJP. Ace shuttler Lakshya Sen caught in age fraud case - Know details Lakshya Sen, one of India’s brightest badminton stars, has found himself embroiled in a legal battle over allegations of age fraud. The controversy, which first surfaced in the early 2010s, centres around claims that Sen and his brother, Chirag Sen, falsified their birth records to compete in junior badminton tournaments. The accusations have since escalated into a full-fledged legal case, bringing the Indian sports ecosystem’s age verification system under scrutiny.

Top 10 world news: Iran rules out 'direct talks' with US; Pope Francis resumes duties from hospital, and more

The state of Israel is now calling for the complete demilitarization of southern Syria. Syria, remember, is a sovereign nation, and Israel is issuing a warning to its new rulers against deploying their military in the south of Damascus. This refers to the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which spearheaded the offensive that ended up in toppling the Bashar al-Assad government in December. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu now says that his country will not allow forces from HTS or the New Syrian Army to enter the area south of Damascus.

Israeli PM Netanyahu demands demilitarisation of southern Syria

Israel and Hamas accused each other of violating the already fragile Gaza cease-fire deal after Israel delayed the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners who were supposed to be exchanged for hostages. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Israel, Hamas blame each other for violation of Gaza truce

#Gravitas For the first time in over two decades, Israeli tanks have entered the West Bank, raising alarms about what comes next.

Israel sends tanks into West Bank for the first time since 2002

The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has once again broken down, with both sides accusing each other of not upholding their end of the agreement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel is prepared to resume fighting in the Gaza Strip at any moment.

Israel-Hamas ceasefire: Israel halts prisoner exchange with Hamas

Israel-Hamas ceasefire: Israel halts prisoner exchange with Hama

Israel has postponed the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners, citing concerns over the "humiliating" nature of hostage handover ceremonies conducted by Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the prisoner release would remain on hold until Hamas guarantees the cessation of such ceremonies and ensures the safe return of additional hostages.

Israel-Hamas War: Israel halts release of Palestinian prisoners

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli PM Netanyahu halts prisoner exchange with Hamas

Israel-Hamas War: 'Israel prepared to resume fighting in Gaza strip,' says Netanyahu

Israel-Hamas War: Israel refuses to release 608 Palestinians prisoners

Israel-Hamas ceasefire brought to another halt

Israel halts release of 608 Palestinian prisoners, citing ‘humiliating’ handovers of hostages by Hamas

Israel halts prisoner exchange with Hamas

Israel refuses to release 608 Palestinians

The Vatican on Saturday (Feb 22) said that Pope Francis' condition continues to be critical due to a respiratory attack.
In other news, billionaire Elon Musk said that all US federal employees must justify their work and failure to do so will be taken as their resignation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has delayed the release of Palestinian prisoners under the Gaza truce following "humiliating ceremonies" when Israeli hostages were freed.
Meanwhile, The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sought an explanation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) after the Indian national anthem was played before the Australia-England Champions Trophy match started in Lahore.
Click on the headlines for more
Pope Francis in 'critical' condition after 'asthma-like respiratory crisis': Vatican
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/21/aNnJY0xFbqFLzu0ow3Z0.jpg" alt=" File photo: Pope Francis leads the Vespers and Te Deum prayer in St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, December 31, 2024. Photograph: (Reuters) ">
The Vatican on Saturday (Feb 22) said that Pope Francis had a respiratory attack and his condition "continues to be critical". The treatment required "high-flow oxygen" and also blood transfusions.&nbsp;
Elon Musk says all US govt staff must justify their work or lose jobs
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/18/K1gQxuiqyYxkWCgj2kak.jpg" alt=" Elon Musk Photograph: (AFP) ">
Elon Musk, the billionaire advisor to Donald Trump, said Saturday that all US federal employees must justify their work or lose their jobs, hours after the president pushed him to be "more aggressive" in slashing government spending.
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu delays Palestinians' release after six Gaza hostages freed
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/23/ZukAyC32dAGGZbN9PfH6.png" alt=" A Palestinian unit of PLO Leader Yasser Arafat guards &quot;Force 17&quot; controls the entrance of the crowd, on May 3, 1995 during a rally in Gaza City commemorating the first anniversary of the Palestinian police's entry into Jericho and the Gaza Strip. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that freeing Palestinian prisoners under the Gaza ceasefire deal will be delayed until Hamas ends its "humiliating ceremonies" while releasing Israeli hostages.
Champions Trophy 2025: PCB demands ICC explanation after India's national anthem played before AUS-ENG match
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/22/WpYp7G3d9NTn9dnreb9z.png" alt=" Ben Duckett celebrates after scoring his century Photograph: (X (@ICC)) ">
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sought an explanation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) after India's national anthem was briefly played at the start of the Australia-England Champions Trophy match in Lahore on Saturday (Feb 22).
Watch | USAID funds went back to Bangladesh, not India: Reports
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2202_WION_USAID_FUND_8PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2202_WION_USAID_FUND_8PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=98&amp;tags=USAID funds went back to Bangladesh, not India: Reports" title="USAID funds went back to Bangladesh, not India: Reports" id="PL_iframe_block-m7h41s4p-i2yjfe4s-hcxf12rk"></iframe>

Start your morning with WION's news brief, providing a comprehensive snapshot of world events and top stories to ensure you're updated and ready for the day.

The Vatican on Saturday (Feb 22) said that Pope Francis' condition continues to be critical due to a respiratory attack. In other news, billionaire Elon Musk said that all US federal employees must justify their work and failure to do so will be taken as their resignation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has delayed the release of Palestinian prisoners under the Gaza truce following "humiliating ceremonies" when Israeli hostages were freed. Meanwhile, The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sought an explanation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) after the Indian national anthem was played before the Australia-England Champions Trophy match started in Lahore. Click on the headlines for more Pope Francis in 'critical' condition after 'asthma-like respiratory crisis': Vatican The Vatican on Saturday (Feb 22) said that Pope Francis had a respiratory attack and his condition "continues to be critical". The treatment required "high-flow oxygen" and also blood transfusions. Elon Musk says all US govt staff must justify their work or lose jobs Elon Musk, the billionaire advisor to Donald Trump, said Saturday that all US federal employees must justify their work or lose their jobs, hours after the president pushed him to be "more aggressive" in slashing government spending. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu delays Palestinians' release after six Gaza hostages freed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that freeing Palestinian prisoners under the Gaza ceasefire deal will be delayed until Hamas ends its "humiliating ceremonies" while releasing Israeli hostages. Champions Trophy 2025: PCB demands ICC explanation after India's national anthem played before AUS-ENG match The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sought an explanation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) after India's national anthem was briefly played at the start of the Australia-England Champions Trophy match in Lahore on Saturday (Feb 22). Watch | USAID funds went back to Bangladesh, not India: Reports

Morning news brief: Pope's health update; Israel delays Palestinians' release, and more

Israeli PM Netanyahu to hold security consultations on remaining captives. 22 February 2025 14:44 GMT. Watch in for more details!

Netanyahu to hold security consultations on remaining captives

Hamas on Saturday freed five Israeli hostages, among the last living captives to be released under the first phase of a fragile truce that is also expected to see Palestinian prisoners released.

Hamas frees 5 Israeli hostages in latest transfer under truce

#Gravitas Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered an intensive military crackdown in the West Bank. This directive came just hours after three empty buses exploded near Tel Aviv which Israeli authorities suspect was a terrorist attack. Watch in for more details!

Bombs shatter uneasy peace in West Asia, Israel retaliates

US envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg called the talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive" as the two met on Thursday in Kyiv.&nbsp;
The Palestinian militant group Hamas admitted that the body of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas had been burried in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place.&nbsp;
<h2>Click on the headlines for more</h2>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extensive-and-productive-us-envoy-kellogg-praises-talks-with-courageous-leader-zelensky-8744537" rel="dofollow">'Extensive and productive': US envoy Kellogg praises talks with 'courageous leader' Zelensky</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/EdooFRhDHwJhfci6YAkw.png" alt=" Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky (L) greets US envoy Keith Kellogg at his offices in Kyiv on February 20, 2025, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Photograph: (AFP) ">
US special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg on Friday (Feb 21) called his talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive".&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/evil-violation-of-truce-amid-outrage-hamas-says-shiri-bibass-remains-mixed-in-rubble-of-israeli-strike-8743938" rel="dofollow">'Evil violation of truce': Amid outrage, Hamas says Shiri Bibas's remains 'mixed in rubble' of Israeli strike</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/aIWn4vrk5NIiqJrGbzq8.png" alt=" Posters of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Kfir and Ariel are plastered outside the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, now informally called the &quot;Hostages Square&quot;, on February 19, 2025 Photograph: (AFP) ">
After Israel claimed that a body returned by Hamas Thursday was not of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Israeli hostage's remains had been burried in the rubble alomg with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place where she was being held captive.&nbsp;
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<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/14/VkwdGXZOop8Ei4yijeZX.png" alt=" PM Modi meets US President Donald Trump Photograph: (AFP) ">
Indian Foreign Ministry on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Trump administration's claim that $21 million USAID funding was allegedly allocated for 'voter turnout in India' was 'deeply concerning'.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-ukraines-zelensky-really-a-dictator-without-elections-trumps-claim-vs-the-reality-of-wartime-voting-8744345" rel="dofollow">Is Ukraine's Zelensky really a 'dictator without elections'? Trump&rsquo;s claim vs. the reality of wartime voting</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/spE7PfhNAc2afkZRzGIy.png" alt=" Under normal circumstances, Zelensky would have faced re-election in 2024. Photograph: (Reuters, Wion Web Team) ">
US President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday, calling him a &ldquo;modestly successful comedian&rdquo; and a &ldquo;dictator without elections.&rdquo;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rednote-downloads-sees-91-per-cent-drop-as-tiktok-returns-to-us-stores-8744228" rel="dofollow">Rednote downloads drop by 91 per cent as TikTok returns to US stores</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/21/4IkwfgfESrO4fQqij0iA.jpg" alt=" Representative photo of a man holding a smartphone displaying the logo of Chinese social media platform Tiktok. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Weeks after US President Donald Trump granted an extension to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tiktok" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">TikTok&nbsp;</a>to find a US buyer, the app has returned to US mobile stores. Meanwhile, the rival social media app Xiaohongshu has suffered a 91 per cent drop in downloads.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-should-engage-in-mutual-beneficial-cooperation-eam-jaishankar-meets-his-chinese-counterpart-in-johannesberg-8743741" rel="dofollow">'We should engage in mutual beneficial cooperation': Jaishankar meets Chinese FM Wang Yi on sidelines of G20</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/Fv8whCOTL0c3aqmGg5Yf.png" alt=" Indian's External Affairs S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi Photograph: (WION) ">
India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday (Feb 21) on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers' meet.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unacceptable-and-wrong-canadas-pm-hopeful-ruby-dhalla-slams-false-media-allegations-of-india-link-8744118" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Unacceptable and wrong&rsquo;: Canada&rsquo;s PM hopeful Ruby Dhalla slams &lsquo;false&rsquo; media allegations of India link</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/28/q6iYGbxEgFlGojSaAInP.png" alt=" Ruby Dhalla Photograph: (Instagram/rubydhalla1) ">
Indo-Canadian politician Ruby Dhalla has strongly denied allegations suggesting she is linked to Indian authorities, calling them an attempt to &ldquo;discredit&rdquo; her leadership bid for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-detects-malicious-activity-by-china-targeting-liberal-partys-leadership-candidate-chrystia-freeland-8703062" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Liberal Party</a>.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-cpac-speech-chainsaw-for-bureaucracy-stunt-cringe-af-or-fire-internet-divided-8744709" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk&rsquo;s &lsquo;chainsaw for bureaucracy&rsquo; stunt: &lsquo;Cringe AF&rsquo; or &lsquo;fire&rsquo;? Internet divided</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/mhtg6y32Lvx1putk64ds.png" alt=" &ldquo;This is the chainsaw for bureaucracy,&rdquo; Musk declared, lifting the power tool over his head. Photograph: (X/elonmusk) ">
Elon Musk, the billionaire leading deep spending cuts in the US federal government, took to the stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Thursday with an unusual prop&mdash;a chainsaw.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pcb-upset-over-pakistans-name-missing-from-broadcasting-logo-during-ind-vs-ban-champions-trophy-2025-match-8744485" rel="dofollow">PCB upset over Pakistan&rsquo;s name missing from broadcasting logo during IND vs BAN Champions Trophy tie</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/sDUwzKUR0soEFbywIG9K.jpg" alt=" PCB upset over Pakistan&rsquo;s name missing from broadcasting logo during IND vs BAN Champions Trophy tie Photograph: (Others) ">
The PCB is upset over Pakistan&rsquo;s name missing from the logo during the live broadcast of the recently concluded India vs Bangladesh&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy</a>&nbsp;game in Dubai. The absence of Pakistan&rsquo;s name in the CT branding forced the host board to write to the ICC seeking an explanation.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pm-narendra-modi-applauds-vicky-kaushals-period-drama-8744685" rel="dofollow">'In dino to Chhaava ki dhoom machi hui hai': PM Narendra Modi applauds Vicky Kaushal's period drama</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/0fleQkgiBKSErS6gOybm.png" alt=" PM Narendra Modi applauds Vicky Kaushal's Chhaava Photograph: (X) ">
On Friday (Feb 21), Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Vicky Kaushal's recently released film Chhaava. The period drama is currently garnering a lot of appraise from all quarters, especially for its engaging storytelling and prolific performance from the lead cast.&nbsp;

World: Hamas admitted that the body of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas had been mixed in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place.

US envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg called the talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive" as the two met on Thursday in Kyiv. The Palestinian militant group Hamas admitted that the body of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas had been burried in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place. Click on the headlines for more 'Extensive and productive': US envoy Kellogg praises talks with 'courageous leader' Zelensky US special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg on Friday (Feb 21) called his talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive". 'Evil violation of truce': Amid outrage, Hamas says Shiri Bibas's remains 'mixed in rubble' of Israeli strike After Israel claimed that a body returned by Hamas Thursday was not of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Israeli hostage's remains had been burried in the rubble alomg with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place where she was being held captive. 'Deeply concerning': Indian foreign ministry reacts to Trump's $21M funding for 'voter turnout in India' claim Indian Foreign Ministry on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Trump administration's claim that $21 million USAID funding was allegedly allocated for 'voter turnout in India' was 'deeply concerning'. Is Ukraine's Zelensky really a 'dictator without elections'? Trump’s claim vs. the reality of wartime voting US President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday, calling him a “modestly successful comedian” and a “dictator without elections.” Rednote downloads drop by 91 per cent as TikTok returns to US stores Weeks after US President Donald Trump granted an extension to TikTok to find a US buyer, the app has returned to US mobile stores. Meanwhile, the rival social media app Xiaohongshu has suffered a 91 per cent drop in downloads. 'We should engage in mutual beneficial cooperation': Jaishankar meets Chinese FM Wang Yi on sidelines of G20 India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday (Feb 21) on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers' meet. ‘Unacceptable and wrong’: Canada’s PM hopeful Ruby Dhalla slams ‘false’ media allegations of India link Indo-Canadian politician Ruby Dhalla has strongly denied allegations suggesting she is linked to Indian authorities, calling them an attempt to “discredit” her leadership bid for the Liberal Party. Elon Musk’s ‘chainsaw for bureaucracy’ stunt: ‘Cringe AF’ or ‘fire’? Internet divided Elon Musk, the billionaire leading deep spending cuts in the US federal government, took to the stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Thursday with an unusual prop—a chainsaw. PCB upset over Pakistan’s name missing from broadcasting logo during IND vs BAN Champions Trophy tie The PCB is upset over Pakistan’s name missing from the logo during the live broadcast of the recently concluded India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy game in Dubai. The absence of Pakistan’s name in the CT branding forced the host board to write to the ICC seeking an explanation. 'In dino to Chhaava ki dhoom machi hui hai': PM Narendra Modi applauds Vicky Kaushal's period drama On Friday (Feb 21), Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Vicky Kaushal's recently released film Chhaava. The period drama is currently garnering a lot of appraise from all quarters, especially for its engaging storytelling and prolific performance from the lead cast.

Top 10 world news: US envoy praises talks with Zelensky; Gaza ceasefire updates, and more

UN experts are warning repeatedly that the occupied West Bank is facing Gaza-like conditions, with forced displacements, house demolitions, increased checkpoints, and a dire situation in the Palestinian territory. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Unprecedented displacement in the occupied West Bank

The Israeli military said on Friday that one of the bodies released by Hamas did not belong to any of the hostages held in Gaza, accusing Hamas of violating an already shaky ceasefire. Watch in for more details!

Israel says Shiri Bibas is not among bodies returned from Gaza, Hamas pledges to investigate

Body released by Hamas is not of hostage Shiri Bibas: Israeli military

After Israel claimed that a body returned by Hamas Thursday was not of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Israeli hostage's remains had been burried in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place where she was being held captive.&nbsp;
Hamas official Ismail al-Thawabteh claimed that Shiri's body was "turned into pieces" after apparently being mixed with other bodies under the rubble in the attack. He stressed that Israel was behind her death.&nbsp;
For the last one year, Hamas has been claiming that Shiri and her two young sons were killed in an Israeli airstrike.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-accuses-hamas-of-murdering-months-old-kfir-bibas-and-4-year-old-ariel-bibas-says-body-of-their-mother-not-returned-as-promised-8741958">Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing</a>
They said the remains placed in a coffin labeled with Shiri&rsquo;s face were actually that of an unidentified Gazan woman.
On Thursday, Hamas handed over the remains of what it claimed were of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas, along with the body of Oded Lifshitz, an Israeli journalist and advocate for Palestinian rights. This marked the first return of Israeli bodies under the ongoing ceasefire in Gaza. &nbsp; &nbsp;
Hamas in a statement, said that it will examine these allegations "very seriously" and announce the results of its investigation.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-cult-netanyahu-vows-vengeance-against-hamas-after-it-parades-dead-bodies-of-israeli-hostages-8741079">&lsquo;Death cult&rsquo;: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it &lsquo;parades dead bodies&rsquo; of Israeli hostages</a>
<h2>'Unspeakable cynicism'</h2>
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday slammed "unspeakable cynicism" of Hamas after Israeli forensic authorities determined that the body handed over yesterday which Hamas said was of Shiri, is not her's.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The cruelty of the Hamas monsters knows no bounds,&rdquo; Netanyahu said in a video statement.
He added, "Not only did they kidnap the father, Yarden Bibas, but the young mother, Shiri, and their two small babies. But in an unspeakably cynical manner, they did not return Shiri alongside her young children, the little angels, and they put the body of a Gazan woman in the coffin.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-hoped-prayed-for-different-ending-families-crushed-as-hamas-releases-israeli-hostages-bodies-8740171">&lsquo;We hoped, prayed for a different ending&rsquo;: Families crushed as Hamas releases Israeli hostages&rsquo;&nbsp;bodies</a>
He vowed to act "resolutely to bring Shiri home along with all our hostages, both living and dead, and ensure that Hamas pays the full price for this cruel and evil violation of the agreement.&rdquo;
<h2>Herzog slams Hamas for 'horrific violation' of deal&nbsp;</h2>
Israeli President Isaac Herzog slammed the Palestinian militant group of &ldquo;horrific violation&rdquo; after it handed over the body of an unidentified Gazan woman.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The bodies of Ariel and Kfir, so pure and innocent, were identified, while their beloved mother, Shiri, remains in captivity,&rdquo; says Herzog in a statement. &ldquo;This is a shocking and horrific violation of the ceasefire agreement, another cruel act by the terrorists of Hamas, who continue to show utter disregard for humanity.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-bat-yam-hit-by-multiple-bus-explosions-in-suspected-terrorist-attack-8742042">Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions in 'suspected terrorist attack'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Hamas official said that Shiri's body was "turned into pieces" after apparently being mixed with other bodies under the rubble, reiterating Israel was behind her death.

After Israel claimed that a body returned by Hamas Thursday was not of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Israeli hostage's remains had been burried in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place where she was being held captive. Hamas official Ismail al-Thawabteh claimed that Shiri's body was "turned into pieces" after apparently being mixed with other bodies under the rubble in the attack. He stressed that Israel was behind her death. For the last one year, Hamas has been claiming that Shiri and her two young sons were killed in an Israeli airstrike. Also read: Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing They said the remains placed in a coffin labeled with Shiri’s face were actually that of an unidentified Gazan woman. On Thursday, Hamas handed over the remains of what it claimed were of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas, along with the body of Oded Lifshitz, an Israeli journalist and advocate for Palestinian rights. This marked the first return of Israeli bodies under the ongoing ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas in a statement, said that it will examine these allegations "very seriously" and announce the results of its investigation. Also read: ‘Death cult’: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it ‘parades dead bodies’ of Israeli hostages 'Unspeakable cynicism' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday slammed "unspeakable cynicism" of Hamas after Israeli forensic authorities determined that the body handed over yesterday which Hamas said was of Shiri, is not her's. “The cruelty of the Hamas monsters knows no bounds,” Netanyahu said in a video statement. He added, "Not only did they kidnap the father, Yarden Bibas, but the young mother, Shiri, and their two small babies. But in an unspeakably cynical manner, they did not return Shiri alongside her young children, the little angels, and they put the body of a Gazan woman in the coffin.” Also read: ‘We hoped, prayed for a different ending’: Families crushed as Hamas releases Israeli hostages’ bodies He vowed to act "resolutely to bring Shiri home along with all our hostages, both living and dead, and ensure that Hamas pays the full price for this cruel and evil violation of the agreement.” Herzog slams Hamas for 'horrific violation' of deal Israeli President Isaac Herzog slammed the Palestinian militant group of “horrific violation” after it handed over the body of an unidentified Gazan woman. “The bodies of Ariel and Kfir, so pure and innocent, were identified, while their beloved mother, Shiri, remains in captivity,” says Herzog in a statement. “This is a shocking and horrific violation of the ceasefire agreement, another cruel act by the terrorists of Hamas, who continue to show utter disregard for humanity.” Also read: Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions in 'suspected terrorist attack' (With inputs from agencies)

'Evil violation of truce': Amid outrage, Hamas says Shiri Bibas's remains 'mixed in rubble' of Israeli strike

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