The Israeli military says forensic testing revealed the body of hostage Shiri Bibas was not returned from Gaza with those of her two young sons. Watch this report for more details!

IDF: One of four bodies returned by Hamas is not of Shiri Bibas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Feb 20) slammed the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a "death cult" after it displayed coffins containing the bodies of four Israeli hostages.&nbsp;
The hostages included a baby and a small child.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Hamas is not a resistance movement. Hamas is a death cult that murders, tortures, and parades dead bodies,&rdquo; government spokesman David Mencer told journalists.
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>
<h2>Netanyahu vows vengeance&nbsp;</h2>
Israeli PM Netanyahu, in a message of victory over Hamas, said, &ldquo;We are all united in unbearable grief.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;We all ache with pain that is mixed with rage. We are all furious at the monsters of Hamas,&rdquo; he said, adding that Israel must &ldquo;settle the score with the vile murderers&mdash;and we will settle the score.&rdquo;
The Israeli PM promised to achieve the longstanding goals of the war.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/day-of-grief-for-israel-says-netanyahu-as-hamas-confirms-youngest-hostage-kfir-bibass-body-among-dead-to-be-released-today-8738314">&lsquo;Day of grief&rsquo;, says Netanyahu as Hamas prepares to return baby Kfir Bibas&rsquo;s body</a>
&ldquo;We will bring back all our hostages, destroy the murderers, eliminate Hamas, and together&mdash;with God&rsquo;s help&mdash;we will secure our future,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;
<h2>'Hamas will be destroyed'&nbsp;</h2>
Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz vowed to destroy the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
&ldquo;The heart of the entire nation is mourning today,&rdquo; Katz posted on X.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-will-release-all-remaining-israeli-hostages-in-single-swap-during-second-phase-of-gaza-agreement-8737579">Hamas to free 'all Israeli hostages' in single swap during phase two of Gaza truce</a>
&ldquo;Hamas abducted, Hamas murdered, Hamas will be destroyed,&rdquo; he stressed, adding that Israel will take revenge against their enemies and secure its future.
Hamas on Thursday (Feb 20) revealed black coffins in southern Gaza, displaying the names and photos of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir, pinned to the casket.
According to Hamas, the bodies handed over include those of Oded Lifshitz, 83, along with 32-year-old Shiri Bibas and her two children, who were just nine months and four years old when they were taken hostage.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-hands-over-bodies-of-four-israeli-hostages-including-mother-and-young-sons-8739430">'Our hearts lie in tatters': Israel mourns after receiving bodies of dead Gaza hostages</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World Middle East: “Hamas is not a resistance movement. Hamas is a death cult that murders, tortures, and parades dead bodies,” government spokesman David Mencer told journalists.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Feb 20) slammed the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a "death cult" after it displayed coffins containing the bodies of four Israeli hostages. The hostages included a baby and a small child. “Hamas is not a resistance movement. Hamas is a death cult that murders, tortures, and parades dead bodies,” government spokesman David Mencer told journalists. Also read: ‘We hoped, prayed for a different ending’: Families crushed as Hamas releases Israeli hostages’ bodies Netanyahu vows vengeance Israeli PM Netanyahu, in a message of victory over Hamas, said, “We are all united in unbearable grief.” “We all ache with pain that is mixed with rage. We are all furious at the monsters of Hamas,” he said, adding that Israel must “settle the score with the vile murderers—and we will settle the score.” The Israeli PM promised to achieve the longstanding goals of the war. Also read: ‘Day of grief’, says Netanyahu as Hamas prepares to return baby Kfir Bibas’s body “We will bring back all our hostages, destroy the murderers, eliminate Hamas, and together—with God’s help—we will secure our future,” he added. 'Hamas will be destroyed' Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz vowed to destroy the Palestinian militant group Hamas. “The heart of the entire nation is mourning today,” Katz posted on X. Also read: Hamas to free 'all Israeli hostages' in single swap during phase two of Gaza truce “Hamas abducted, Hamas murdered, Hamas will be destroyed,” he stressed, adding that Israel will take revenge against their enemies and secure its future. Hamas on Thursday (Feb 20) revealed black coffins in southern Gaza, displaying the names and photos of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir, pinned to the casket. According to Hamas, the bodies handed over include those of Oded Lifshitz, 83, along with 32-year-old Shiri Bibas and her two children, who were just nine months and four years old when they were taken hostage. Also read: 'Our hearts lie in tatters': Israel mourns after receiving bodies of dead Gaza hostages (With inputs from agencies)

‘Death cult’: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it ‘parades dead bodies’ of Israeli hostages

Hamas today handed over four dead bodies of Israeli hostages taken on the 7th of October 2023. This marks the first time since the truce and exchange process began that the dead bodies of hostages have been transferred. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas conflict: Will Israel-Hamas extend ceasefire?

Hamas on Thursday handed over the bodies of four Israeli hostages held in Gaza — the first time the group has released deceased captives since October 7, 2023. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas conflict: Hamas hands over bodies of four hostages

Hamas is set to release the bodies of Shiri Bibas, Ariel Bibas, and Kfir Bibas to Israel, along with Oded Lifshitz as the fourth hostage. This comes amid heightened tensions and reports of a Hezbollah operative being targeted by the IDF in Lebanon, marking the first death since Israeli troop withdrawal from the region.

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas to hand over bodies of Bibas family

Israel-Hamas conflict: Hamas set to hand over bodies of four hostages

Senior Hamas official Taher al-Nunu said that the Palestinian militant group will be releasing all remaining hostages in a single swap during the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal.
Taher al-Nunu said that they have informed mediators about this.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We have informed the mediators that Hamas is ready to release all hostages in one batch during the second phase of the agreement, rather than in stages, as in the current first phase,&rdquo; Taher al-Nunu said.
Nunu did not clarify if the Hamas group will also release the bodies of dead hostages, which are slated to be transferred in the third phase.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world/palestinians-must-decide-future-of-gaza-and-hamas-not-israel-or-us-says-qatar-8733765">Palestinians must decide future of Gaza and Hamas, not Israel or US, says Qatar</a>
As per the second phase of the agreement, the war will end and also include the withdrawal of all IDF troops from Gaza.&nbsp;
<h2>IDF to receive four bodies of slain Israeli hostages&nbsp;</h2>
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) on Wednesday said that they are ready for tomorrow's transfer by Hamas of four slain Israeli hostages, including preparations for a brief military ceremony upon receiving the bodies.
Hamas has announced that it will be handing over the bodies of Shiri Silberman Bibas and her two young children, Ariel and Kfir, along with another slain hostage who has not been named.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/committed-to-trumps-gaza-plan-for-a-different-gaza-says-israeli-pm-netanyahu-8729775">'Committed' to Trump's plan for 'a different Gaza', says Israeli PM Netanyahu</a>
The bodies will be handed over by Hamas to the Red Cross, which will bring them to Israeli forces inside the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;
The IDF will be holding a respectful ceremony in Gaza after receiving the bodies. The bodies will be placed in coffins draped in Israeli flags and carried by Israeli troops into IDF vehicles.
The IDF said that it will also investigate the causes of the deaths of the hostages, and that, at this stage, claims made by Hamas are unverified.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-to-release-four-hostage-bodies-thursday-six-living-captives-saturday-8733535">Hamas to release six living captives, bodies of four hostages this week, confirms Israel</a>
Notably, officials have asked Israeli media to refrain from broadcasting the event of receiving the bodies.&nbsp;
Moreover, Hamas will release six living hostages on Saturday: Tal Shoham, Omer Shem-Tov, Eliya Cohen, Omer Wenkert, Avera Mengistu, and Hisham al-Sayed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/clear-tangible-danger-hostage-families-seek-clarity-from-netanyahu-over-failure-to-hold-phase-two-talks-8736159">'Clear danger': Hostages' families seek clarity from Israeli PM over 'failure' to hold Gaza phase two talks</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The Hamas official did not clarify if the group will also release the bodies of dead hostages, which are slated to be transferred in the third phase.

Senior Hamas official Taher al-Nunu said that the Palestinian militant group will be releasing all remaining hostages in a single swap during the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal. Taher al-Nunu said that they have informed mediators about this. “We have informed the mediators that Hamas is ready to release all hostages in one batch during the second phase of the agreement, rather than in stages, as in the current first phase,” Taher al-Nunu said. Nunu did not clarify if the Hamas group will also release the bodies of dead hostages, which are slated to be transferred in the third phase. Also read: Palestinians must decide future of Gaza and Hamas, not Israel or US, says Qatar As per the second phase of the agreement, the war will end and also include the withdrawal of all IDF troops from Gaza. IDF to receive four bodies of slain Israeli hostages The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) on Wednesday said that they are ready for tomorrow's transfer by Hamas of four slain Israeli hostages, including preparations for a brief military ceremony upon receiving the bodies. Hamas has announced that it will be handing over the bodies of Shiri Silberman Bibas and her two young children, Ariel and Kfir, along with another slain hostage who has not been named. Also read: 'Committed' to Trump's plan for 'a different Gaza', says Israeli PM Netanyahu The bodies will be handed over by Hamas to the Red Cross, which will bring them to Israeli forces inside the Gaza Strip. The IDF will be holding a respectful ceremony in Gaza after receiving the bodies. The bodies will be placed in coffins draped in Israeli flags and carried by Israeli troops into IDF vehicles. The IDF said that it will also investigate the causes of the deaths of the hostages, and that, at this stage, claims made by Hamas are unverified. Also read: Hamas to release six living captives, bodies of four hostages this week, confirms Israel Notably, officials have asked Israeli media to refrain from broadcasting the event of receiving the bodies. Moreover, Hamas will release six living hostages on Saturday: Tal Shoham, Omer Shem-Tov, Eliya Cohen, Omer Wenkert, Avera Mengistu, and Hisham al-Sayed. Also read: 'Clear danger': Hostages' families seek clarity from Israeli PM over 'failure' to hold Gaza phase two talks (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas to free 'all Israeli hostages' in single swap during phase two of Gaza truce

Israel has withdrawn from southern Lebanese villages but maintains troops in five strategic positions under a ceasefire deal with Hezbollah. Watch this report for more details!

Lebanon: Israel's continued presence in 5 places an 'occupation'.

As the Gaza ceasefire agreement faces ups and downs while being executed, the families of hostages said that the lack of talks on the second stage of the deal is a "clear and tangible" danger to their loved ones.&nbsp;
The families of hostages demanded "urgent clarifications" from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the apparent lack of progress in the negotiations.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The failure to hold phase two [talks] represents a clear and tangible danger to the dozens of live abductees, and the ability to bury the dead on Israeli soil,&rdquo; the forum said in a statement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world/palestinians-must-decide-future-of-gaza-and-hamas-not-israel-or-us-says-qatar-8733765">Palestinians must decide future of Gaza and Hamas, not Israel or US, says Qatar</a>
&ldquo;The news of the advance return of hostages on Saturday is clear proof that it is possible to expedite the timetables and return everyone in a much shorter period of time,&rdquo; the statement to Netanyahu read.
They further demanded "urgent clarifications regarding the continuity of the agreement."
Notably, the six remaining living Israeli hostages will be released in the first phase of the Gaza truce deal on Saturday, Israeli and Hamas officials confirmed on Tuesday.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-to-release-four-hostage-bodies-thursday-six-living-captives-saturday-8733535">Hamas to release six living captives, bodies of four hostages this week, confirms Israel</a>
&ldquo;The release of the six hostages is the result of ongoing talks in Cairo,&rdquo; said a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office.
The Palestinian militant group further said that it would also transfer the bodies of mother Shiri Silberman Bibas and her two young children, Ariel and Kfir, to Israel tomorrow, as well as that of a fourth unnamed hostage.&nbsp;
Moreover, Israel confirmed that they are expecting to receive four bodies, without identifying them.&nbsp;
Israel also hinted at initiating negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal in the coming days.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-begin-negotiations-on-second-phase-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-demands-complete-demilitarisation-8732546">Israel to begin negotiations on second phase of Gaza ceasefire deal, demands 'complete demilitarisation'</a>
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Tuesday (Feb 18) that negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal would begin &ldquo;this week&rdquo;. He added that it will include the exchange of Israeli hostages with Palestinian prisoners.
<h2>Identification of hostages&rsquo; bodies may take time</h2>
Health Minister Uriel Buso says that the identification of the bodies of four hostages to be returned by Hamas tomorrow could take some time. He stressed that there is a need to establish the causes of death if possible.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I visited the Institute of Forensic Medicine to see the preparation for the return of the fallen,&rdquo; the minister said, adding, &ldquo;The professionals here have been prepared to quickly receive them, so that identification can be carried out as promptly as possible.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-must-compel-israel-to-abide-by-ceasefire-deal-to-secure-hostage-release-says-hamas-8724522">'US must compel Israel to abide by ceasefire deal' to secure hostage release', says Hamas</a>
Buso further said that the identification process might not be immediate, depending on the condition of the bodies.
(With inputs from agencies)

World Middle East: The families of hostages demanded "urgent clarifications" from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the apparent lack of progress in the negotiations.

As the Gaza ceasefire agreement faces ups and downs while being executed, the families of hostages said that the lack of talks on the second stage of the deal is a "clear and tangible" danger to their loved ones. The families of hostages demanded "urgent clarifications" from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the apparent lack of progress in the negotiations. “The failure to hold phase two [talks] represents a clear and tangible danger to the dozens of live abductees, and the ability to bury the dead on Israeli soil,” the forum said in a statement. Also read: Palestinians must decide future of Gaza and Hamas, not Israel or US, says Qatar “The news of the advance return of hostages on Saturday is clear proof that it is possible to expedite the timetables and return everyone in a much shorter period of time,” the statement to Netanyahu read. They further demanded "urgent clarifications regarding the continuity of the agreement." Notably, the six remaining living Israeli hostages will be released in the first phase of the Gaza truce deal on Saturday, Israeli and Hamas officials confirmed on Tuesday. Also read: Hamas to release six living captives, bodies of four hostages this week, confirms Israel “The release of the six hostages is the result of ongoing talks in Cairo,” said a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office. The Palestinian militant group further said that it would also transfer the bodies of mother Shiri Silberman Bibas and her two young children, Ariel and Kfir, to Israel tomorrow, as well as that of a fourth unnamed hostage. Moreover, Israel confirmed that they are expecting to receive four bodies, without identifying them. Israel also hinted at initiating negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal in the coming days. Also read: Israel to begin negotiations on second phase of Gaza ceasefire deal, demands 'complete demilitarisation' Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Tuesday (Feb 18) that negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal would begin “this week”. He added that it will include the exchange of Israeli hostages with Palestinian prisoners. Identification of hostages’ bodies may take time Health Minister Uriel Buso says that the identification of the bodies of four hostages to be returned by Hamas tomorrow could take some time. He stressed that there is a need to establish the causes of death if possible. “I visited the Institute of Forensic Medicine to see the preparation for the return of the fallen,” the minister said, adding, “The professionals here have been prepared to quickly receive them, so that identification can be carried out as promptly as possible.” Also read: 'US must compel Israel to abide by ceasefire deal' to secure hostage release', says Hamas Buso further said that the identification process might not be immediate, depending on the condition of the bodies. (With inputs from agencies)

'Clear danger': Hostages' families seek clarity from Israeli PM over 'failure' to hold Gaza phase two talks

Hamas plans to release six hostages on Saturday, while discussions continue on freeing all living Israeli hostages. The group also announced it will hand over the bodies of four other deceased captives on Thursday.

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas to free six living hostages and hand over 4 bodies

Israel withdraws from Lebanon border villages, holds five positions

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas to release six living Israeli hostages and hand over four bodies this week

Hamas plans to release six hostages on Saturday, while discussions continue on freeing all living Israeli hostages. Reports estimate that $53 billion is needed for Gaza's reconstruction and recovery efforts.

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas to release hostages as Gaza recovery efforts continue

Israel on Tuesday (Feb 18) stated that Hamas will hand over the bodies of four hostages held in Gaza on Thursday and release six living captives on Saturday. The announcement confirmed the earlier statement by Hamas. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas to release remains of 4 Israeli hostages on February 20

#Gravitas Iran has openly threatened to strike Israel for a third time. A direct warning from Tehran not just meant for Israel but also for the U.S. and the fragile ceasefire in Gaza.

Iran-Israel war: Iran vows third direct attack on Israel

Qatar, a key mediator in the Gaza conflict, said on Tuesday that Palestinians&mdash;not outsiders&mdash;must decide the territory's future after the Israel-Hamas war.
Foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari told a Doha news conference that the issue was "a Palestinian question", after Israel insisted on removing Hamas and the United States proposed taking over the territory.
"From our perspective, this is a Palestinian question on what happens post this conflict," said Ansari when asked about Israel's stated objective to eliminate Hamas.
"It is a Palestinian question on who represents the Palestinians in an official capacity and also the political groups and parties in the political sphere," he said.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said earlier Tuesday that negotiations for the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire, which Qatar helped broker, would begin this week.
The second phase of the truce is meant to facilitate the release of all remaining hostages seized during Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack that sparked the war and lead to a permanent end to the fighting.
Saar said Israel demanded the "complete demilitarisation of Gaza" and would "not accept the continued presence of Hamas or any other terrorist groups" in the territory, ruled by Hamas since 2007.
US President Donald Trump has proposed a takeover of the Gaza Strip, under which its 2.4 million inhabitants would be moved to Egypt or Jordan.
The plan has drawn widespread condemnation, with Arab states preparing a response.
Trump's proposal has added strains to the fragile Gaza ceasefire, which has largely halted the violence since it took effect on January 19, after more than 15 months of war.
The ongoing first phase of the truce, which is set to expire on March 1, has so far seen the release of 19 Israeli hostages in exchange for more than 1,100 Palestinians in Israeli custody.
More hostage-prisoner exchanges are expected before the end of the first phase, which has also allowed humanitarian aid into besieged Gaza.
Hamas, however, has accused Israel of blocking the entry of prefabricated structures and heavy machinery to clear rubble.
Ansari, the Qatari spokesman, said that "the aid the enters the Gaza Strip today is insufficient".
"Using humanitarian aid as a bargaining chip in negotiations is a crime in and of itself."
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: Foreign ministry spokesman said that the issue was "a Palestinian question", after Israel insisted on removing Hamas and the US proposed taking over the territory.

Qatar, a key mediator in the Gaza conflict, said on Tuesday that Palestinians—not outsiders—must decide the territory's future after the Israel-Hamas war. Foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari told a Doha news conference that the issue was "a Palestinian question", after Israel insisted on removing Hamas and the United States proposed taking over the territory. "From our perspective, this is a Palestinian question on what happens post this conflict," said Ansari when asked about Israel's stated objective to eliminate Hamas. "It is a Palestinian question on who represents the Palestinians in an official capacity and also the political groups and parties in the political sphere," he said. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said earlier Tuesday that negotiations for the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire, which Qatar helped broker, would begin this week. The second phase of the truce is meant to facilitate the release of all remaining hostages seized during Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack that sparked the war and lead to a permanent end to the fighting. Saar said Israel demanded the "complete demilitarisation of Gaza" and would "not accept the continued presence of Hamas or any other terrorist groups" in the territory, ruled by Hamas since 2007. US President Donald Trump has proposed a takeover of the Gaza Strip, under which its 2.4 million inhabitants would be moved to Egypt or Jordan. The plan has drawn widespread condemnation, with Arab states preparing a response. Trump's proposal has added strains to the fragile Gaza ceasefire, which has largely halted the violence since it took effect on January 19, after more than 15 months of war. The ongoing first phase of the truce, which is set to expire on March 1, has so far seen the release of 19 Israeli hostages in exchange for more than 1,100 Palestinians in Israeli custody. More hostage-prisoner exchanges are expected before the end of the first phase, which has also allowed humanitarian aid into besieged Gaza. Hamas, however, has accused Israel of blocking the entry of prefabricated structures and heavy machinery to clear rubble. Ansari, the Qatari spokesman, said that "the aid the enters the Gaza Strip today is insufficient". "Using humanitarian aid as a bargaining chip in negotiations is a crime in and of itself." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Palestinians must decide future of Gaza and Hamas, not Israel or US, says Qatar

The state of Israel is set to begin negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal this week, while demanding a complete demilitarization of the Palestinian enclave. These developments come as thousands of Israelis took to the streets of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, urging their government to secure the release of the 73 hostages still in the custody of Hamas. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Talks on phase 2 of Gaza deal to take place this week, says Israel

Iran has warned of a third attack on Israel, with Supreme Leader Khamenei stating they are “prepared.” Dubbed “Operation True Promise 3,” the threat raises concerns in the region. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Iran war: Iran vows third attack on Israel

Israel has expressed its commitment to a US proposal to take over Gaza and displace the Palestinian residents as Washington's top diplomat holds talks in Saudi Arabia on the future of Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he is committed to US President Donald Trump's plan for the creation of a different Gaza, also promising that after the war, there will be neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority ruling the region. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Rubio & Saudi Crown Prince discuss Gaza after Trump's proposal

Israel will begin negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal "this week", Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Tuesday (Feb 18), adding that it will include the exchange of Israeli hostages with Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;
Israeli foreign minister further said that Israel demanded a complete demilitarisation of the enclave.&nbsp;
The fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has been facing some ups and downs as it continues.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arab-summit-on-donald-trumps-gaza-plan-postponed-8729917">Arab summit on Donald Trump's Gaza plan postponed</a>
<h2>'High chance' six hostages will be freed on Saturday</h2>
Senior Hamas official said that there is a "high chance" that the Palestinian militant group will be freeing six living hostages on Saturday.&nbsp;
&ldquo;There are negotiations and it depends on the price Israel will pay,&rdquo; the unnamed official told Ynet News.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The demands at the moment are that Israel agrees to enter talks for the second phase [of the hostage deal] and give guarantees on the humanitarian issues, allowing in mobile homes and heavy [construction] equipment,&rdquo; the official added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/committed-to-trumps-gaza-plan-for-a-different-gaza-says-israeli-pm-netanyahu-8729775">'Committed' to Trump's plan for 'a different Gaza', says Israeli PM Netanyahu</a>
Notably, Hamas is set to release four bodies on Thursday and three living hostages on Saturday as per the truce agreement.&nbsp;
Following this, a senior Israeli official said that Israel will start allowing mobile homes and heavy construction equipment into Gaza in a controlled manner as it seeks to bring the six living hostages.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is making immense efforts to secure the release of the six living hostages that remain as part of phase one [of the hostage-ceasefire deal], and also four hostages who are not alive,&rdquo; the official said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-can-never-be-nuclear-iran-netanyahu-rubio-discuss-hamas-trumps-gaza-plan-and-tehrans-aggression-8726530">&lsquo;There can never be nuclear Iran&rsquo;: Netanyahu, Rubio discuss Hamas, Trump&rsquo;s Gaza plan, and Tehran&rsquo;s &lsquo;aggression&rsquo;</a>
"In accordance with the negotiations and on condition Hamas upholds the agreement, Israel will begin allowing this in a controlled and phased way.&rdquo;
However, an Israeli official denied the reports of machinery entering Gaza as of Tuesday. An Israeli official told The Jerusalem Post that no heavy machinery had entered Gaza as of Tuesday morning after images of such tools entering Gaza circulated online.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-must-compel-israel-to-abide-by-ceasefire-deal-to-secure-hostage-release-says-hamas-8724522">'US must compel Israel to abide by ceasefire deal' to secure hostage release', says Hamas</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: A senior Hamas official said that there is a "high chance" that the Palestinian militant group will be freeing six living hostages on Saturday.

Israel will begin negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal "this week", Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Tuesday (Feb 18), adding that it will include the exchange of Israeli hostages with Palestinian prisoners. Israeli foreign minister further said that Israel demanded a complete demilitarisation of the enclave. The fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has been facing some ups and downs as it continues. Also read: Arab summit on Donald Trump's Gaza plan postponed 'High chance' six hostages will be freed on Saturday Senior Hamas official said that there is a "high chance" that the Palestinian militant group will be freeing six living hostages on Saturday. “There are negotiations and it depends on the price Israel will pay,” the unnamed official told Ynet News. “The demands at the moment are that Israel agrees to enter talks for the second phase [of the hostage deal] and give guarantees on the humanitarian issues, allowing in mobile homes and heavy [construction] equipment,” the official added. Also read: 'Committed' to Trump's plan for 'a different Gaza', says Israeli PM Netanyahu Notably, Hamas is set to release four bodies on Thursday and three living hostages on Saturday as per the truce agreement. Following this, a senior Israeli official said that Israel will start allowing mobile homes and heavy construction equipment into Gaza in a controlled manner as it seeks to bring the six living hostages. “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is making immense efforts to secure the release of the six living hostages that remain as part of phase one [of the hostage-ceasefire deal], and also four hostages who are not alive,” the official said. Also read: ‘There can never be nuclear Iran’: Netanyahu, Rubio discuss Hamas, Trump’s Gaza plan, and Tehran’s ‘aggression’ "In accordance with the negotiations and on condition Hamas upholds the agreement, Israel will begin allowing this in a controlled and phased way.” However, an Israeli official denied the reports of machinery entering Gaza as of Tuesday. An Israeli official told The Jerusalem Post that no heavy machinery had entered Gaza as of Tuesday morning after images of such tools entering Gaza circulated online. Also read: 'US must compel Israel to abide by ceasefire deal' to secure hostage release', says Hamas (With inputs from agencies)

Israel to begin negotiations on second phase of Gaza ceasefire deal, demands 'complete demilitarisation'

Iran has warned of a third attack on Israel, with Supreme Leader Khamenei stating they are “prepared.” Dubbed “Operation True Promise 3,” the threat raises concerns in the region.

Israel-Iran war: Iran threatens new attack on Israel: 'true promise 3' looms

Israel army pulls out of border villages in South Lebanon

Israel has expressed commitment to Trump’s Gaza displacement plan, while hostages remain a top concern for the public. As a poll reveals most Israelis favor extending hostage release efforts over war, Hamas is expected to return four hostages this week.

Israel says it is committed to Trump's plan for Gaza displacement

Israel expressed commitment on Monday to a US proposal to take over Gaza and displace its Palestinian residents. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli PM Netanyahu 'committed' to Trump's plan to take over Gaza

Israel-Hamas War: Israel says committed to Trump plan for Gaza displacement

Tensions between Israel and Hamas are increasing just two days after the sixth hostage-prisoner exchange. Israel launched a fresh offensive against the Iran-backed group, even as Israel's security cabinet was expected to convene today to discuss the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. The Israeli army claims to have killed a Hamas commander in an airstrike in southern Lebanon.

The Israeli army has accused the Hamas commander of planning attacks against Israel from Lebanese territory. The IDF claims the Hamas commander was being directly funded by Iran. Meanwhile,  a meeting of Arab leaders in Riyadh, in response to US President Donald Trump's plan to take control of Gaza, has been postponed until Friday. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Israel Kills Top Hamas Commander In Lebanon

Families of Israeli hostages led a 500-minute fast and march through Jerusalem, demanding action and justice for their loved ones. The demonstration included roadblocks and rallies, showcasing the community’s determination to keep their cause in the public eye.

Hostage families lead 500-minute fast and march in Jerusalem

A squadron of six US Air Force bombers has reportedly been flying over the Mediterranean Sea, consisting of B-52 Stratofortress. According to reports, the American aircraft took off from an American base in England on Monday, possibly heading towards West Asia. This comes a day after the U.S. and Israel displayed a united front on Gaza, with PM Benjamin Netanyahu warning to open the "gates of hell" in Gaza if all hostages are not returned. Watch in for more details!

US strategic bombers fly near Gaza as Israel threatens to open 'gates of hell'

Tensions between Israel and Hamas are increasing just two days after the sixth hostage-prisoner exchange. Israel launched a fresh offensive against the Iran-backed group, this even as Israel's security cabinet is expected to convene today to discuss the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement.

Israel-Hamas War: Israel's security cabinet meeting to discuss phase 2 of truce

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (Feb 17) that he was "committed" to US President Donald Trump's plan for Gaza.&nbsp;
Trump's plan involved displacing more than two million inhabitants of the Palestinian territory.
The Israeli prime minister said that he is committed to "a different Gaza".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-cant-do-a-thing-tehran-slams-netanyahu-for-vowing-to-finish-the-job-against-iran-with-trumps-help-8729162">'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help</a>
"I am committed to US President Trump's plan for the creation of a different Gaza," Netanyahu said in a statement.
Earlier this month, Trump, in an interview excerpt released on Monday (Feb 10), said that Palestinians would not have the right to return to Gaza under his proposal for the United States to assume control of the region.
"No, they wouldn&rsquo;t, because they&rsquo;re going to have much better housing. In other words, I&rsquo;m talking about building a permanent place for them," Trump told Bret Baier of Fox News when asked if Palestinians would be allowed to return.
He further suggested that reconstruction efforts could be led by other nations in the region.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-thanks-us-president-trump-for-full-support-on-gaza-8725325">Israeli PM Netanyahu thanks US President Trump for 'full support' on Gaza</a>
The detailed plan involves the US taking control of Gaza, relocating its Palestinian population elsewhere, and transforming the region into the "Riviera of the Middle East."&nbsp;
He introduced the plan alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said that the idea was "worth listening carefully to."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-hamas-militants-lead-3-israeli-hostages-on-stage-8723396">Gaza ceasefire: 3 Hamas hostages, dozens of Palestinian prisoners released in latest swap</a>
<h2>'Neither Hamas nor Palestinian Authority will rule Gaza'</h2>
Netanyahu stressed that, as promised the day after the war in Gaza, neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority will be there.&nbsp;
He added that he is "committed to [US] President [Donald] Trump&rsquo;s plan to create a different Gaza&rdquo; &mdash; referring to a plan to relocate the Strip&rsquo;s residents while the US takes ownership of the territory and rebuilds it into a &ldquo;Riviera of the Middle East.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-accept-american-and-israeli-threats-hamas-warns-trump-netanyahu-over-gaza-ceasefire-ultimatum-8715064">&lsquo;Won&rsquo;t accept American and Israeli threats&rsquo;: Hamas warns Trump, Netanyahu over Gaza ceasefire ultimatum</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump's detailed plan involves the US taking control of Gaza, relocating its Palestinian people elsewhere, and transforming region into the "Riviera of the Middle East."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (Feb 17) that he was "committed" to US President Donald Trump's plan for Gaza. Trump's plan involved displacing more than two million inhabitants of the Palestinian territory. The Israeli prime minister said that he is committed to "a different Gaza". Also read: 'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help "I am committed to US President Trump's plan for the creation of a different Gaza," Netanyahu said in a statement. Earlier this month, Trump, in an interview excerpt released on Monday (Feb 10), said that Palestinians would not have the right to return to Gaza under his proposal for the United States to assume control of the region. "No, they wouldn’t, because they’re going to have much better housing. In other words, I’m talking about building a permanent place for them," Trump told Bret Baier of Fox News when asked if Palestinians would be allowed to return. He further suggested that reconstruction efforts could be led by other nations in the region. Also read: Israeli PM Netanyahu thanks US President Trump for 'full support' on Gaza The detailed plan involves the US taking control of Gaza, relocating its Palestinian population elsewhere, and transforming the region into the "Riviera of the Middle East." He introduced the plan alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said that the idea was "worth listening carefully to." Also read: Gaza ceasefire: 3 Hamas hostages, dozens of Palestinian prisoners released in latest swap 'Neither Hamas nor Palestinian Authority will rule Gaza' Netanyahu stressed that, as promised the day after the war in Gaza, neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority will be there. He added that he is "committed to [US] President [Donald] Trump’s plan to create a different Gaza” — referring to a plan to relocate the Strip’s residents while the US takes ownership of the territory and rebuilds it into a “Riviera of the Middle East.” Also read: ‘Won’t accept American and Israeli threats’: Hamas warns Trump, Netanyahu over Gaza ceasefire ultimatum (With inputs from agencies)

'Committed' to Trump's plan for 'a different Gaza', says Israeli PM Netanyahu

Hezbollah said on Sunday that Israeli troops must withdraw from Lebanese territory in full by a February 18 deadline, saying it had "no pretext" to maintain a military presence in any post in southern Lebanon. Watch this report for more details!

Hezbollah demands withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanon by February 18

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