Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu convenes a security meeting with top ministers as reports indicate progress in ongoing hostage negotiations.

Netanyahu to hold security meeting with key ministers amid hostage talks progress

As Israel begins its monumental rebuilding efforts following the recent conflict with Hamas, the construction sector faces a significant labor shortage. Historically dependent on Palestinian and other migrant workers, Israel is now turning to an increasing number of workers from India to fill the gap.

Indian workers fill critical roles in Israel

Israeli military strikes in the Gaza Strip have killed at least 70 people over the last day, Palestinian medics said on Saturday, as mediators launched a new ceasefire push to end the 15-month-old war.
At least 17 of those who died were killed in airstrikes on two houses in Gaza City, the first of which destroyed the home of the Al-Ghoula family in the early hours, medics and residents said.

Israel Gaza: Israeli Strikes Kill Dozens In Gaza Strip As New Ceasefire Talks Begin

Ryan Routh, who made an assasination bid on US President-elect Donald Trump offered to join the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a captive it was revealed in a letter from a jailhouse in Miami, where he is currently imprisoned and pending trial, according to the New York Post&nbsp;
The 58-year-old Routh is incarcerated in a federal prison in Miami pending trial for allegedly attempting to kill Trump.&nbsp;
Routh in a bizarre letter confirmed by the New York Post, expressed concern for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-secy-warned-netanyahu-biden-would-not-visit-israel-if-they-wont-allow-aid-into-gaza-8591823" rel="dofollow">Also read: US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if they won't allow aid into Gaza</a>
"Will you go with me to Gaza and surrender to Hamas in exchange for a hostage life, please? Will you help me stop the killing of innocent children and families by offering yourself to restart the peace process and end this war?&rdquo; Routh asked in the letter.
Routh depicts himself as Alexander Hamilton from &ldquo;It's a Wonderful Life,&rdquo; who is highly obsessed with George Bailey.
Routh has been researching and reading about the life of founding father Hamilton, who worked as the first US treasury secretary from 1789 to 1795, "crying", over his passing in a battle with former Vice President Aaron Burr.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-proposes-8b-arms-sale-to-israel-reports-8591476" rel="dofollow">Also read: Biden administration proposes $8B arms sale to Israel: Report</a>
Further, he linked himself to Bailey, the kindhearted banker portrayed by Jimmy Stewart in the Frank Capra Christmastime classic from 1946.&nbsp;
In his letter, Routh expressed his willingness to surrender to Gaza, stressing that he does not desire a world where "our neighbours struggle" around the world.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I feel as George Bailey, wondering if there is support and value in honor, dignity, righteousness, meek, modest, altruism, magnanimity, empathy, kindness, caring [and] sacrifice," he stated.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-delegation-departs-for-qatar-to-hold-hostage-deal-talks-with-hamas-8588239" rel="dofollow">Also read: Israeli delegation departs for Qatar to hold hostage deal talks with Hamas</a>
The letter's envelope has Routh's name, his prison ID number, and prison return address, according to the New York Post.&nbsp;
Moreover, Routh's 31-year-old daughter Sara, also signed the letter and confirmed the letter's legitimacy, according to the New York Post.
As he expressed his "willingness to surrender" in Gaza, Routh said this would be merely to restart the peace talks.&nbsp;
He also expressed solidarity with the university students staging violent protests on campus in&nbsp; support of Hamas.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-police-chief-deputy-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-on-gaza-humanitarian-zone-8585896" rel="dofollow">Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone</a>
&ldquo;It was extremely sad when our US leaders crushed the tent cities created by the University students for Gaza,&rdquo; Routh said, encouraging students to rebuild encampments at the &ldquo;edge of Gaza.&rdquo;
Routh was apprehended by federal agents on September 15 last year, with a semiautomatic rifle during a search at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: In his letter, Routh expressed his willingness to surrender to Gaza, stressing that he does not desire a world where "our neighbours struggle" around the world. 

Ryan Routh, who made an assasination bid on US President-elect Donald Trump offered to join the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a captive it was revealed in a letter from a jailhouse in Miami, where he is currently imprisoned and pending trial, according to the New York Post The 58-year-old Routh is incarcerated in a federal prison in Miami pending trial for allegedly attempting to kill Trump. Routh in a bizarre letter confirmed by the New York Post, expressed concern for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Also read: US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if they won't allow aid into Gaza "Will you go with me to Gaza and surrender to Hamas in exchange for a hostage life, please? Will you help me stop the killing of innocent children and families by offering yourself to restart the peace process and end this war?” Routh asked in the letter. Routh depicts himself as Alexander Hamilton from “It's a Wonderful Life,” who is highly obsessed with George Bailey. Routh has been researching and reading about the life of founding father Hamilton, who worked as the first US treasury secretary from 1789 to 1795, "crying", over his passing in a battle with former Vice President Aaron Burr. Also read: Biden administration proposes $8B arms sale to Israel: Report Further, he linked himself to Bailey, the kindhearted banker portrayed by Jimmy Stewart in the Frank Capra Christmastime classic from 1946. In his letter, Routh expressed his willingness to surrender to Gaza, stressing that he does not desire a world where "our neighbours struggle" around the world. “I feel as George Bailey, wondering if there is support and value in honor, dignity, righteousness, meek, modest, altruism, magnanimity, empathy, kindness, caring [and] sacrifice," he stated. Also read: Israeli delegation departs for Qatar to hold hostage deal talks with Hamas The letter's envelope has Routh's name, his prison ID number, and prison return address, according to the New York Post. Moreover, Routh's 31-year-old daughter Sara, also signed the letter and confirmed the letter's legitimacy, according to the New York Post. As he expressed his "willingness to surrender" in Gaza, Routh said this would be merely to restart the peace talks. He also expressed solidarity with the university students staging violent protests on campus in support of Hamas. Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone “It was extremely sad when our US leaders crushed the tent cities created by the University students for Gaza,” Routh said, encouraging students to rebuild encampments at the “edge of Gaza.” Routh was apprehended by federal agents on September 15 last year, with a semiautomatic rifle during a search at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida. (With inputs from agencies)

'Willing to surrender in Gaza': Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken revealed that days after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=hamas" rel="dofollow">Hamas</a>'s October 7 attack on Israel last year, he threatened that President Joe Biden would not visit Israel as planned unless Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government allowed aid into Gaza.&nbsp;
Blinken in an interview with The New York Times, highlighted on the initial siege imposed by Israel on Gaza after Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.&nbsp;
The US state secretary further detailed how he met with Israeli leaders including Netanyahu during his trip to Israel after the attack and argued for hours on "end about the basic proposition that the humanitarian assistance needed to get to Palestinians in Gaza."&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-population-declined-by-6-in-2024-israel-faced-slower-population-growth-report-8585645" rel="dofollow">Also read: Gaza population declined by 6% in 2024, Israel faced slower population growth: Report</a>
"And that was an argument that took place because you had in Israel in the days after Oct. 7 a totally traumatized society," he continued.&nbsp;
Blinken said that this was not just the prime minister or a given leader in Israel, rather, this was an entire society that "did not want any assistance getting to a single Palestinian in Gaza."
"I argued that for nine hours," he added.
But ultimately, Biden said, he had to threaten that Biden would not come to Israel if aid did not start going in.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-police-chief-deputy-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-on-gaza-humanitarian-zone-8585896" rel="dofollow">Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone</a>
&ldquo;I told the prime minister, I&rsquo;m going to call the president and tell him not to come if you don&rsquo;t allow this assistance to start flowing. And I called the president to make sure that he agreed with that, and he fully did," he said.&nbsp;
He added "then we got the agreement to begin assistance through Rafah, which we expanded to Kerem Shalom and many other places."
<h2>US does not believe Israel is carrying out genocide in Gaza</h2>
Blinken in the interview, said that the US does not believe that Israel is carrying out genocide in Gaza, although he says that there were times when Israel was not &ldquo;doing enough&rdquo; to allow in humanitarian assistance.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-hostage-deal-at-impasse-unlikely-to-be-completed-before-end-of-bidens-term-report-8583822" rel="dofollow">Also read: Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report</a>
He further denied that Netanyahu was responsible for a ceasefire hostage deal falling apart in July, adding that ultimately it has been Hamas that foiled an agreement.&nbsp;
&ldquo;What we&rsquo;ve seen time and again is Hamas not concluding a deal that it should have concluded,&rdquo; Blinken said.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Blinken in an interview with The New York Times, highlighted on the initial siege imposed by Israel on Gaza after Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked southern Israel. 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken revealed that days after Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel last year, he threatened that President Joe Biden would not visit Israel as planned unless Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government allowed aid into Gaza. Blinken in an interview with The New York Times, highlighted on the initial siege imposed by Israel on Gaza after Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. The US state secretary further detailed how he met with Israeli leaders including Netanyahu during his trip to Israel after the attack and argued for hours on "end about the basic proposition that the humanitarian assistance needed to get to Palestinians in Gaza." Also read: Gaza population declined by 6% in 2024, Israel faced slower population growth: Report "And that was an argument that took place because you had in Israel in the days after Oct. 7 a totally traumatized society," he continued. Blinken said that this was not just the prime minister or a given leader in Israel, rather, this was an entire society that "did not want any assistance getting to a single Palestinian in Gaza." "I argued that for nine hours," he added. But ultimately, Biden said, he had to threaten that Biden would not come to Israel if aid did not start going in. Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone “I told the prime minister, I’m going to call the president and tell him not to come if you don’t allow this assistance to start flowing. And I called the president to make sure that he agreed with that, and he fully did," he said. He added "then we got the agreement to begin assistance through Rafah, which we expanded to Kerem Shalom and many other places." US does not believe Israel is carrying out genocide in Gaza Blinken in the interview, said that the US does not believe that Israel is carrying out genocide in Gaza, although he says that there were times when Israel was not “doing enough” to allow in humanitarian assistance. Also read: Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report He further denied that Netanyahu was responsible for a ceasefire hostage deal falling apart in July, adding that ultimately it has been Hamas that foiled an agreement. “What we’ve seen time and again is Hamas not concluding a deal that it should have concluded,” Blinken said. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if he won't allow aid into Gaza

Israel has now bombed Syrian Army positions south of Aleppo. Residents reported hearing huge explosions in the area, while the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that the strikes targeted defense and research facilities. The Observatory added that at least seven massive explosions were heard, resulting from an Israeli airstrike on defense factories south of Aleppo. The IDF has also confirmed that dozens of its troops were flown into Syria in September to destroy an underground missile Factory funded by Iran. Watch in for more details!

Watch: Israel Destroys Iran-backed Underground Missile Facility In Syria

An Israeli delegation of "working-level negotiators" have departed Tel Aviv to attend talks in Qatar's capital Doha for further negotiations regarding a hostage agreement in the Gaza Strip, The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;
Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=+Benjamin+Netanyahu+" rel="dofollow">Benjamin Netanyahu </a>said on Thursday (Jan 2) that he had okayed the delegation's departure to discuss a potential hostage-ceasefire agreement.&nbsp;
"Netanyahu authorised a working-level delegation from the Mossad, Shin Bet, and IDF to continue negotiations in Doha," the Israeli PMO said in a statement.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-hostage-deal-at-impasse-unlikely-to-be-completed-before-end-of-bidens-term-report-8583822" rel="dofollow"> Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report</a>
The Israeli delegation comprises Mossad, the country's intelligence agency; Shin Bet or the Israeli Security Agency, the intelligence, technological, and operational organisation of Israel; and Israeli Defence Forces (IDF).
Moreover, a delegation from the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, is also expected to reach Doha to proceed with the negotiations.&nbsp;
<h2>Ceasefire-hostage talks reached an impasse</h2>
This comes amid the circulating reports that the ceasefire-hostage talks had reached an impasse.&nbsp;The ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the ceasefire and hostage deal have reached a dead end, Arab mediators told the Wall Street Journal earlier this week.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-police-chief-deputy-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-on-gaza-humanitarian-zone-8585896" rel="dofollow">Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone</a>
The mediators said that despite new hopes for their renewed talks, Israel-Hamas discussions to secure the deal have hit an impasse, adding that&nbsp;the deal is unlikely to be completed by the end of Biden's administration.&nbsp;
Following Netanyahu's approval to send a delegation to Qatar, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a civil, volunteer-based organisation, representing the families of the hostages, welcomes the decision, saying that the "window of opportunity" cannot be missed.&nbsp;
However, in November last year, Qatar stressed that it halted its role as a ceasefire mediator due to a lack of willingness by Israel and Hamas to reach an agreement.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-hamas-to-let-hostages-come-back-soon-8582598">Trump warns Hamas to 'let hostages come back soon'</a>
Lately, Israel and the Palestinian militant group have been blaming each other for not following the terms of the deal. Hamas said that Israel had set "new issues and conditions" on the terms of a deal and Netanyahu accused Hamas of "reneging on understandings."&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (Jan 2) that he had okayed the delegation's departure to discuss a potential hostage-ceasefire agreement.

An Israeli delegation of "working-level negotiators" have departed Tel Aviv to attend talks in Qatar's capital Doha for further negotiations regarding a hostage agreement in the Gaza Strip, The Times of Israel reported. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (Jan 2) that he had okayed the delegation's departure to discuss a potential hostage-ceasefire agreement. "Netanyahu authorised a working-level delegation from the Mossad, Shin Bet, and IDF to continue negotiations in Doha," the Israeli PMO said in a statement. Also read: Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report The Israeli delegation comprises Mossad, the country's intelligence agency; Shin Bet or the Israeli Security Agency, the intelligence, technological, and operational organisation of Israel; and Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). Moreover, a delegation from the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, is also expected to reach Doha to proceed with the negotiations. Ceasefire-hostage talks reached an impasse This comes amid the circulating reports that the ceasefire-hostage talks had reached an impasse. The ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the ceasefire and hostage deal have reached a dead end, Arab mediators told the Wall Street Journal earlier this week. Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone The mediators said that despite new hopes for their renewed talks, Israel-Hamas discussions to secure the deal have hit an impasse, adding that the deal is unlikely to be completed by the end of Biden's administration. Following Netanyahu's approval to send a delegation to Qatar, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a civil, volunteer-based organisation, representing the families of the hostages, welcomes the decision, saying that the "window of opportunity" cannot be missed. However, in November last year, Qatar stressed that it halted its role as a ceasefire mediator due to a lack of willingness by Israel and Hamas to reach an agreement. Also read:Trump warns Hamas to 'let hostages come back soon' Lately, Israel and the Palestinian militant group have been blaming each other for not following the terms of the deal. Hamas said that Israel had set "new issues and conditions" on the terms of a deal and Netanyahu accused Hamas of "reneging on understandings." Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli delegation departs for Qatar to hold hostage deal talks with Hamas

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has declassified details of "Operation Many Ways," where 120 commandos dismantled a Syrian underground missile production facility reportedly financed by Iran. The mission was carried out on September 8, 2024. The facility, called "Deep Layer," was located near Masyaf in western Syria, a region known for its strong air defence.
<h2 class="p1">Targeted Facility</h2>
The Deep Layer facility was reportedly constructed after a 2017 Israeli airstrike on an aboveground missile production site.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-10-world-news-new-orleans-attack-updates-israeli-military-kills-hamas-police-chief-and-more-8586402">Top 10 world news: New Orleans attack updates; IDF kills Hamas police chief, and more</a>
The facility was built 70-130 meters into a mountain and was operational by 2021. It was producing up to 300 missiles annually with a range of 300 kilometres. The missiles were allegedly intended for Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Assad regime.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5gia617-1xqvibot-0hkyz8v7">
DECLASSIFIED: In September 2024, before the fall of the Assad Regime, our soldiers conducted an undercover operation to dismantle an Iranian-funded underground precision missile production site in Syria. Watch exclusive footage from this historic moment. <a href="https://t.co/s0bTDNwx77">pic.twitter.com/s0bTDNwx77</a>
&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1874849694012309593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2 class="p1">Operational Details</h2>
Israeli military planned the operation for several years. It gained urgency amid escalating regional tensions. Commandos were flown into Syrian airspace on CH-53 helicopters, escorted by fighter jets and drones. To evade radar and Syrian air defences, the aircraft flew over the Mediterranean and at low altitudes.
Upon reaching the site, diversionary strikes were launched to misdirect Syrian forces. Commandos breached the facility&rsquo;s fortified entrances using forklifts to access critical areas. Explosives were planted along the production line to target machinery used for missile manufacturing. The explosives were remotely detonated by the Israeli commandos.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-police-chief-deputy-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-on-gaza-humanitarian-zone-8585896">Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone</a>
<h2 class="p1">Outcome</h2>
The IAF reported 30 Syrian casualties, while Syrian media claimed 14 deaths and 43 injuries. The operation lasted for almost three hours with all commandos returning safely.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Israel declassified details of "Operation Many Ways," a September 2024 mission where 120 commandos destroyed an underground missile facility in Syria

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has declassified details of "Operation Many Ways," where 120 commandos dismantled a Syrian underground missile production facility reportedly financed by Iran. The mission was carried out on September 8, 2024. The facility, called "Deep Layer," was located near Masyaf in western Syria, a region known for its strong air defence. Targeted Facility The Deep Layer facility was reportedly constructed after a 2017 Israeli airstrike on an aboveground missile production site. Also read: Top 10 world news: New Orleans attack updates; IDF kills Hamas police chief, and more The facility was built 70-130 meters into a mountain and was operational by 2021. It was producing up to 300 missiles annually with a range of 300 kilometres. The missiles were allegedly intended for Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Assad regime. DECLASSIFIED: In September 2024, before the fall of the Assad Regime, our soldiers conducted an undercover operation to dismantle an Iranian-funded underground precision missile production site in Syria. Watch exclusive footage from this historic moment. pic.twitter.com/s0bTDNwx77 — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) January 2, 2025 Operational Details Israeli military planned the operation for several years. It gained urgency amid escalating regional tensions. Commandos were flown into Syrian airspace on CH-53 helicopters, escorted by fighter jets and drones. To evade radar and Syrian air defences, the aircraft flew over the Mediterranean and at low altitudes. Upon reaching the site, diversionary strikes were launched to misdirect Syrian forces. Commandos breached the facility’s fortified entrances using forklifts to access critical areas. Explosives were planted along the production line to target machinery used for missile manufacturing. The explosives were remotely detonated by the Israeli commandos. Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone Outcome The IAF reported 30 Syrian casualties, while Syrian media claimed 14 deaths and 43 injuries. The operation lasted for almost three hours with all commandos returning safely. (With inputs from agencies)

'Operation Many Ways': Israel declassifies details of strike on Iran-backed Syrian missile facility

Israel Confirms Syria Raid On Iran-Funded Missile Factory In September

The war in Gaza has been ongoing for almost 15 months now, and the death toll continues to mount. In the past 24 hours, Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 43 Palestinians across the territory. This includes 11 people in a tent encampment sheltering displaced families.

Israel-Hamas War: Israel Attacks Tent Sheltering Displaces Gazans

The Israeli military confirmed on Thursday that dozens of its troops were flown into <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=syria" rel="dofollow">Syria </a>in September to destroy an underground missile factory funded by Iran.
The military, which rarely comments on its activities inside Syria, said in a statement that the September 8 raid involved more than 100 Israeli commando soldiers who dismantled the facility in the Masyaf area near the Mediterranean coast.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor reported at the time that 27 people were killed in the raid. The Israeli military did not disclose any casualty figures.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-education-minister-defends-changes-in-school-curriculum-amid-criticism-8586108" rel="dofollow">Also read: Syria's education minister defends changes in school curriculum amid criticism. Cites THIS reason</a>
Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes in Syria since a civil war broke out there in 2011, mainly on Iranian-linked targets.
In a statement on Thursday, the military said the underground Masyaf compound "included advanced assembly lines designed to manufacture precision-guided missiles and long-range rockets" for Lebanon's Hezbollah "and other Iranian terror proxies in the region".
Troops were flown in on helicopters, "with fire and intelligence-gathering support from aircraft, fighter jets, and naval vessels", it said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-praises-syrian-resistance-says-us-will-leave-the-region-in-humiliation-8583654" rel="dofollow">Also read: Iran&rsquo;s Khamenei praises Syrian resistance, says &lsquo;US will leave the region in humiliation&rsquo;</a>
Military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani told journalists in an online briefing that "this precision-guided missile factory was dug in the side of a mountain underground in the area of Masyaf."
"Most components in fact were sourced from Iran for precision-guided missiles and surface-to-surface missiles," he said.
The facility had the capacity to manufacture hundreds of missiles annually, Shoshani said.
The Observatory said the facility was created and supervised by Iran's Revolutionary Guards.
Tehran at the time condemned the raid as a "criminal attack".
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-military-bombs-isis-positions-in-syria-the-first-since-fall-of-assad-govt-8581341" rel="dofollow">Also read: French military bombs ISIS positions in Syria, the first since fall of Assad govt</a>
The military statement said critical machinery and documents found at the factory were brought to Israel for further investigation.
"The soldiers destroyed the compound and safely returned to Israeli territory," it said.
Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory, told AFP after the raid that an intense air strike preceded the raid, destroying a separate "scientific research centre" in Masyaf used for weapons development, where Iranian experts worked.
Syria, until last month under Iran-backed president Bashar al-Assad, has sought to stay out of the Israel-Hamas conflict, which began with the Palestinian militant group's October 7, 2023 attack and has drawn in Tehran-aligned groups in the region.
Since Islamist-led rebels toppled Assad on December 8, Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes on Syrian military facilities in what it says is a bid to prevent them from falling into hostile hands.
In a move widely condemned internationally, Israel also sent troops into a UN-patrolled buffer zone in the Golan Heights and beyond, describing it as a defensive and temporary measure.
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: The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor reported at the time that 27 people were killed in the raid. The Israeli military did not disclose any casualty figures.

The Israeli military confirmed on Thursday that dozens of its troops were flown into Syria in September to destroy an underground missile factory funded by Iran. The military, which rarely comments on its activities inside Syria, said in a statement that the September 8 raid involved more than 100 Israeli commando soldiers who dismantled the facility in the Masyaf area near the Mediterranean coast. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor reported at the time that 27 people were killed in the raid. The Israeli military did not disclose any casualty figures. Also read: Syria's education minister defends changes in school curriculum amid criticism. Cites THIS reason Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes in Syria since a civil war broke out there in 2011, mainly on Iranian-linked targets. In a statement on Thursday, the military said the underground Masyaf compound "included advanced assembly lines designed to manufacture precision-guided missiles and long-range rockets" for Lebanon's Hezbollah "and other Iranian terror proxies in the region". Troops were flown in on helicopters, "with fire and intelligence-gathering support from aircraft, fighter jets, and naval vessels", it said. Also read: Iran’s Khamenei praises Syrian resistance, says ‘US will leave the region in humiliation’ Military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani told journalists in an online briefing that "this precision-guided missile factory was dug in the side of a mountain underground in the area of Masyaf." "Most components in fact were sourced from Iran for precision-guided missiles and surface-to-surface missiles," he said. The facility had the capacity to manufacture hundreds of missiles annually, Shoshani said. The Observatory said the facility was created and supervised by Iran's Revolutionary Guards. Tehran at the time condemned the raid as a "criminal attack". Also read: French military bombs ISIS positions in Syria, the first since fall of Assad govt The military statement said critical machinery and documents found at the factory were brought to Israel for further investigation. "The soldiers destroyed the compound and safely returned to Israeli territory," it said. Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory, told AFP after the raid that an intense air strike preceded the raid, destroying a separate "scientific research centre" in Masyaf used for weapons development, where Iranian experts worked. Syria, until last month under Iran-backed president Bashar al-Assad, has sought to stay out of the Israel-Hamas conflict, which began with the Palestinian militant group's October 7, 2023 attack and has drawn in Tehran-aligned groups in the region. Since Islamist-led rebels toppled Assad on December 8, Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes on Syrian military facilities in what it says is a bid to prevent them from falling into hostile hands. In a move widely condemned internationally, Israel also sent troops into a UN-patrolled buffer zone in the Golan Heights and beyond, describing it as a defensive and temporary measure. 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.

Israel confirms September raid on Iran-funded missile factory in Syria

Day after the US was shaken by attacks on New Year's Day, authorities have been investigating a possible military connection between the New Orleans attack suspect Shamsud-Din Jabbar, and &nbsp;Matthew Livelsberger, the driver involved in the Cybertruck explosion outside US President-elect Trump's hotel in Las Vegas.&nbsp;
In other news, the Israeli military killed the chief of Hamas-run police force and his deputy in an airstrike in the Gaza humanitarian zone, Hamas said on Thursday. The strike also claimed the lives of 11 others, while 15 were injured.&nbsp;
Click on the headlines to read the full stories.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-people-involved-in-new-orleans-attack-authorities-8585950" rel="dofollow">Investigation on for military link between New Orleans and Cybertruck attack suspects: Authorities</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/02/1zgyyEkk2bmnViGf7U5Y.png" alt=" During the attack, Jabbar shot two police officials and later the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said he was killed in a gunfight with police.&nbsp; Photograph: (Reuters ) ">
Authorities launched an investigation into a possible military connection between the New Orleans attack's suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, and Matthew Livelsberger, the driver in the Cybertruck explosion outside the Trump hotel in Las Vegas.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-police-chief-deputy-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-on-gaza-humanitarian-zone-8585896" rel="dofollow">Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone</a>
<div>
<div>
<div><img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/02/bEYAU9ZyhQNFS6PSoEFo.jpg" alt=" Palestinians walk amid scattered debris of tents on Thursday following an overnight Israeli strike on a makeshift displacement camp in al-Mawasi in the southern Gaza Strip, that reportedly killed at least 11 people, including the chief of the Hamas police chief and his deputy Photograph: (AFP) "></div>
</div>
</div>
The chief of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=hamas" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Hamas</a>-run police force and his deputy have been killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza, the Palestinian militant group said on Thursday (Jan 2).&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-matthew-livelsberger-suspect-in-cybertruck-explosion-in-las-vegas-8585723">Who is Matthew Livelsberger, suspect in cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas?</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/02/YftgqySOEzCQI4Zo4Sji.jpg" alt=" Tesla Cybertruck that exploded in Las Vegas Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Matthew Livelsberger, a native of Colorado Springs, has been identified as the suspect in the Tesla&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=cybertruck+" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Cybertruck explosion</a>&nbsp;that happened outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Thursday (Jan 2).&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-narendra-modi-condemns-cowardly-terrorist-attack-in-new-orleans-that-killed-15-8586002">Indian PM Narendra Modi condemns 'cowardly terrorist attack' in New Orleans that killed 15</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/01/7UOrWiwqqrJq46tpGukL.jpg" alt=" File photo of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (January 2) condemned the truck attack in the United States city of New Orleans, which claimed the lives of 15 people.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-president-yoon-suk-yeol-resists-arrest-for-third-day-vows-to-fight-to-the-end-8586182">Suspended South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol resists arrest for third day, vows to 'fight to the end'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/27/6URZdB8MvJ9wVWpMC5Xa.png" alt=" South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol delivers an address to the nation at the Presidential Office in Seoul, South Korea, December 12, 2024. Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Suspended South Korean President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-investigators-vow-to-execute-arrest-warrant-against-yoon-suk-yeol-before-jan-6-8582785" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yoon Suk Yeol</a>&nbsp;resisited arrest for a third consecutive day on Thursday (January 2). Yoon remained inside his official residence and vowed to "fight" authorities who are trying to arrest him over his failed attempt to impose martial law.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-blames-open-borders-democrats-after-deadly-new-orleans-attack-kills-15-8585338" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;US is breaking down&rsquo;: Trump blames open borders, Democrats after deadly New Orleans attack kills 15</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/02/X6MLvdGhlXzP1wJ58ZLP.png" alt=" In this file picture, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump gestures to supporters during a campaign rally at the Forum River Center in Georgia, US, on March 9, 2024. Photograph: (Reuters) ">
In a scathing statement, US President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday (January 2) criticised what he called "weak, ineffective, and virtually nonexistent leadership" in the United States. His comments followed a deadly car attack in New Orleans, although he did not directly mention the incident in his post.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-cant-centre-say-it-will-consider-genuine-grievances-of-farmers-asks-supreme-court-8586180" rel="dofollow">'Why can't Centre say it will consider genuine grievances of farmers,' asks Supreme Court</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2018/09/12/13819-court-20161118124424.jpg" alt=" Supreme Court of India ">
The Supreme Court on Thursday heard a petition related to the ongoing farmers' protest and questioned the Centre for not making a statement that they would consider genuine demands of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=farmers+protest" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">protesting farmers&nbsp;</a>and their doors are open.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-nsa-jake-sullivan-to-travel-to-india-next-week-8586038" rel="dofollow">US NSA Jake Sullivan to travel to India next week</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/02/WSazUgOF4q7EKz1xHcDV.png" alt=" Jake Sullivan is expected to be in India on Monday and will co-chair the talks with his Indian counterpart, NSA Ajit Doval. Photograph: (AFP) ">
United States National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will&nbsp;be travelling&nbsp;to Delhi next week for the key US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) talks. He is expected to be in India on Monday and Tuesday&nbsp;and&nbsp;will co-chair the talks with his Indian counterpart,&nbsp;NSA&nbsp;Ajit Doval. This will be the&nbsp;3rd&nbsp;round of iCET talks&nbsp;that have taken place since the launch of the initiative in January of&nbsp;2023 in Washington.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-2024-25-rohit-sharma-opts-out-of-sydney-test-amid-poor-form-shubman-gill-set-to-return-report-8585557" rel="dofollow">BGT 2024-25: Rohit Sharma opts out of Sydney Test amid poor form; Shubman Gill set to return - Report</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/02/XGuFJuqMSHSLzlVfBoxH.png" alt=" BGT 2024-25: Rohit Sharma opts out of Sydney Test amid poor form; Shubman Gill set to return - Report Photograph: (AFP) ">
Indian Test team captain Rohit Sharma will sit out of the Sydney Test match against Australia starting on Friday (Jan 3) as the two sides prepare for the series finale. According to several media reports, Rohit has informed chief selector Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir that he will not play in the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) contest with Shubman Gill replacing him in the batting order. The likely change will also see Jasprit Bumrah captain the side as he did in the Perth Test in November.<o:p></o:p>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sooraj-r-barjatya-to-return-to-romance-with-ott-debut-bada-naam-karenge-8586094" rel="dofollow">Sooraj R. Barjatya to return to romance with OTT debut Bada Naam Karenge</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/02/mX3LwiQdWeCnxiBKNg6F.jpg" alt=" Bada Naam Karenge Photograph: (X) ">
Sooraj R. Barjatya, known for giving us timeless classics in the romance genre will soon make his OTT debut with SonyLIV&rsquo;s&nbsp;Bada Naam Karenge.&nbsp;With a legacy rooted in heartfelt storytelling and cherished family values, Rajshri Productions will start their OTT journey with a love story.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World: The Israeli military killed the chief of Hamas-run police force and his deputy in an airstrike in the Gaza humanitarian zone, Hamas said on Thursday. 

Day after the US was shaken by attacks on New Year's Day, authorities have been investigating a possible military connection between the New Orleans attack suspect Shamsud-Din Jabbar, and Matthew Livelsberger, the driver involved in the Cybertruck explosion outside US President-elect Trump's hotel in Las Vegas. In other news, the Israeli military killed the chief of Hamas-run police force and his deputy in an airstrike in the Gaza humanitarian zone, Hamas said on Thursday. The strike also claimed the lives of 11 others, while 15 were injured. Click on the headlines to read the full stories. Investigation on for military link between New Orleans and Cybertruck attack suspects: Authorities Authorities launched an investigation into a possible military connection between the New Orleans attack's suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, and Matthew Livelsberger, the driver in the Cybertruck explosion outside the Trump hotel in Las Vegas. Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone The chief of Hamas-run police force and his deputy have been killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza, the Palestinian militant group said on Thursday (Jan 2). Who is Matthew Livelsberger, suspect in cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas? Matthew Livelsberger, a native of Colorado Springs, has been identified as the suspect in the Tesla Cybertruck explosion that happened outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Thursday (Jan 2). Indian PM Narendra Modi condemns 'cowardly terrorist attack' in New Orleans that killed 15 Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (January 2) condemned the truck attack in the United States city of New Orleans, which claimed the lives of 15 people. Suspended South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol resists arrest for third day, vows to 'fight to the end' Suspended South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol resisited arrest for a third consecutive day on Thursday (January 2). Yoon remained inside his official residence and vowed to "fight" authorities who are trying to arrest him over his failed attempt to impose martial law. ‘US is breaking down’: Trump blames open borders, Democrats after deadly New Orleans attack kills 15 In a scathing statement, US President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday (January 2) criticised what he called "weak, ineffective, and virtually nonexistent leadership" in the United States. His comments followed a deadly car attack in New Orleans, although he did not directly mention the incident in his post. 'Why can't Centre say it will consider genuine grievances of farmers,' asks Supreme Court The Supreme Court on Thursday heard a petition related to the ongoing farmers' protest and questioned the Centre for not making a statement that they would consider genuine demands of protesting farmers and their doors are open. US NSA Jake Sullivan to travel to India next week United States National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will be travelling to Delhi next week for the key US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) talks. He is expected to be in India on Monday and Tuesday and will co-chair the talks with his Indian counterpart, NSA Ajit Doval. This will be the 3rd round of iCET talks that have taken place since the launch of the initiative in January of 2023 in Washington. BGT 2024-25: Rohit Sharma opts out of Sydney Test amid poor form; Shubman Gill set to return - Report Indian Test team captain Rohit Sharma will sit out of the Sydney Test match against Australia starting on Friday (Jan 3) as the two sides prepare for the series finale. According to several media reports, Rohit has informed chief selector Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir that he will not play in the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) contest with Shubman Gill replacing him in the batting order. The likely change will also see Jasprit Bumrah captain the side as he did in the Perth Test in November. Sooraj R. Barjatya to return to romance with OTT debut Bada Naam Karenge Sooraj R. Barjatya, known for giving us timeless classics in the romance genre will soon make his OTT debut with SonyLIV’s Bada Naam Karenge. With a legacy rooted in heartfelt storytelling and cherished family values, Rajshri Productions will start their OTT journey with a love story.

Top 10 world news: New Orleans attack updates; IDF kills Hamas police chief, and more

The chief of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=hamas" rel="dofollow">Hamas</a>-run police force and his deputy have been killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza, the Palestinian militant group said on Thursday (Jan 2).&nbsp;
The airstrike hit a central Gaza tent, which was used for sheltering displaced families. The strike claimed lives of two officials and several others.&nbsp;
Police chief Mahmoud Salah and his deputy Hussam Shahwan were killed in the al-Mawasi area, inside the IDF-designated humanitarian zone west of Khan Younis, Hamas said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-hostage-deal-at-impasse-unlikely-to-be-completed-before-end-of-bidens-term-report-8583822" rel="dofollow">Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report</a>
According to the medics, 11 people were killed in the airstrike.&nbsp;
<h2>Israel confirms the killing</h2>
Later, the Israeli military confirmed the killing of Shahwan and accused him of "hiding under the protection of the civilian population in the humanitarian zone in Khan Younis."
However, the military did not mention anything about Salah.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-hamas-to-let-hostages-come-back-soon-8582598" rel="dofollow">Trump warns Hamas to 'let hostages come back soon'</a>
The IDF said that Shahwan served as Hamas's head of internal security, adding that he was responsible for "severely violating the human rights&rdquo; of Gazan civilians, including &ldquo;violent interrogations".&nbsp;
The Israeli military added that he was also involved in planning attacks against Israeli troops.&nbsp;
Further, the IDF noted that they took steps before the airstrike to reduce the harm to civilians, and accused Hamas of "cruelly exploiting civilian shelters, civilian buildings, and the civilian population as human shields.&rdquo;
The Hamas-run Interior Ministry issued a statement, condemning the killing of the two officers.&nbsp;
"They were performing their humanitarian and national duty in serving our people," the statement read.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-hamas-commander-who-led-oct-7-attack-on-kibbutz-nir-oz-8582031" rel="dofollow">Israel kills Hamas commander who led Oct 7 attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz</a>
&ldquo;By committing the assassination, the occupation continues to spread chaos in the Strip and deepen the human suffering of citizens,&rdquo; the ministry said, adding that &ldquo;the police force is a civil protection force that works to provide services to citizens.&rdquo;&nbsp;
The ministry further noted that Salah served in the police for 30 years and was appointed as the chief six years ago.&nbsp;
Moreover, 11 people were killed in the strike, including women and children, and 15 others are wounded, according to the medics.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: The airstrike hit a central Gaza tent, which was used for sheltering displaced families. The strike claimed the lives of two officials and several others. 

The chief of Hamas-run police force and his deputy have been killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza, the Palestinian militant group said on Thursday (Jan 2). The airstrike hit a central Gaza tent, which was used for sheltering displaced families. The strike claimed lives of two officials and several others. Police chief Mahmoud Salah and his deputy Hussam Shahwan were killed in the al-Mawasi area, inside the IDF-designated humanitarian zone west of Khan Younis, Hamas said. Also read: Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report According to the medics, 11 people were killed in the airstrike. Israel confirms the killing Later, the Israeli military confirmed the killing of Shahwan and accused him of "hiding under the protection of the civilian population in the humanitarian zone in Khan Younis." However, the military did not mention anything about Salah. Also read: Trump warns Hamas to 'let hostages come back soon' The IDF said that Shahwan served as Hamas's head of internal security, adding that he was responsible for "severely violating the human rights” of Gazan civilians, including “violent interrogations". The Israeli military added that he was also involved in planning attacks against Israeli troops. Further, the IDF noted that they took steps before the airstrike to reduce the harm to civilians, and accused Hamas of "cruelly exploiting civilian shelters, civilian buildings, and the civilian population as human shields.” The Hamas-run Interior Ministry issued a statement, condemning the killing of the two officers. "They were performing their humanitarian and national duty in serving our people," the statement read. Also read: Israel kills Hamas commander who led Oct 7 attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz “By committing the assassination, the occupation continues to spread chaos in the Strip and deepen the human suffering of citizens,” the ministry said, adding that “the police force is a civil protection force that works to provide services to citizens.” The ministry further noted that Salah served in the police for 30 years and was appointed as the chief six years ago. Moreover, 11 people were killed in the strike, including women and children, and 15 others are wounded, according to the medics. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone

Israel's former defence minister Yoav Gallant, who was dismissed in November after spearheading the military campaign in Gaza for more than a year, announced Wednesday that he would resign from parliament. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Yoav Gallant Announces His Resignation From Israeli Parliament

Israel has warned that it will intensify its strikes in Gaza if Hamas continues its rocket fire. Over the past week, Hamas militants have repeatedly launched rockets, particularly from northern Gaza, where the Israeli military is conducting a major offensive. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Israel intensifies operation in northern Gaza

Israel-Hamas war: 15 killed in strikes targeting Jabalia & adjacent refugee camp

In a dramatic escalation, Yemen's Houthi rebels have launched strikes on Israel's Ben Gurion Airport and US military assets, intensifying regional tensions. This bold move raises concerns about the broader implications for Middle East stability and international security.

Yemen's Vows Unwavering Support For Gaza Despite Sanaa Strike

The ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the ceasefire and hostage deal have reached a dead end, Arab mediators told the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;
The mediators said that despite new hopes for their renewed talks, Israel and Hamas&nbsp;discussions to secure the deal have hit an impasse.&nbsp;
They added that the deal is unlikely to be completed by the end of Biden's administration.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-hamas-to-let-hostages-come-back-soon-8582598" rel="dofollow">Trump warns Hamas to 'let hostages come back soon'</a>
The two sides were considering a 60-day truce that would see the release of up to 30 hostages while Israel would set free Palestinian prisoners and increase the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Both parties hardened their positions," with Israel insisting that only living hostages be freed and refusing to approve some of the Palestinian prisoners named by Hamas, the report stated.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=hamas" rel="dofollow">Hamas </a>has been insisting on a path toward the end of the war, which was initiated by it only with the attack on October 7, 2023.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-hamas-commander-who-led-oct-7-attack-on-kibbutz-nir-oz-8582031" rel="dofollow">Israel kills Hamas commander who led Oct 7 attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz</a>
The Arab mediators told the Journal that they expect both sides to return to the negotiating table after US President-elect Donald Trump takes office this month.&nbsp;
Earlier on Tuesday, Hamas reportedly rejected 12 of the 34 hostages that Israel asked to release. Instead, Hamas offered the release of 22 living hostages and 12 bodies.&nbsp;
Trump, on Tuesday, warned Palestinian militant group Hamas to release hostages held captive in Gaza before he takes office.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re gonna see what happens, I&rsquo;ll put it this way: they better let the hostages come back soon," Trump said while speaking to a reporter about whether he spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the possibility of a ceasefire and hostage deal.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impossible-to-reach-deal-without-it-hamas-still-hasnt-sent-list-of-living-dead-hostages-to-israel-report-786735" rel="dofollow">'Impossible to reach deal without it,' Hamas still hasn't sent list of living, dead hostages to Israel: Report</a>
<h2>'Hell to pay'</h2>
This comes after Trump took to his official Truth Social handle and issued a stern warning to Hamas to release the hostages before Jan 20, the day when he assumes office, and warned "hell to pay" if Hamas continued to hold the abductees hostage.
&ldquo;...Please let this Truth serve to represent that if the hostages are not released prior to January 20, 2025, the date that I proudly assume Office as President of the United States, there will be all hell to pay in the Middle East, and for those in charge who perpetrated these atrocities against Humanity&rdquo;, he said.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: The mediators said that despite new hopes for Israel-Hamas renewed talks, they have hit an impasse, adding that it is unlikely to be done by the end of Biden's administration. 

The ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the ceasefire and hostage deal have reached a dead end, Arab mediators told the Wall Street Journal. The mediators said that despite new hopes for their renewed talks, Israel and Hamas discussions to secure the deal have hit an impasse. They added that the deal is unlikely to be completed by the end of Biden's administration. Also read: Trump warns Hamas to 'let hostages come back soon' The two sides were considering a 60-day truce that would see the release of up to 30 hostages while Israel would set free Palestinian prisoners and increase the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. “Both parties hardened their positions," with Israel insisting that only living hostages be freed and refusing to approve some of the Palestinian prisoners named by Hamas, the report stated. Meanwhile, Hamas has been insisting on a path toward the end of the war, which was initiated by it only with the attack on October 7, 2023. Also read: Israel kills Hamas commander who led Oct 7 attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz The Arab mediators told the Journal that they expect both sides to return to the negotiating table after US President-elect Donald Trump takes office this month. Earlier on Tuesday, Hamas reportedly rejected 12 of the 34 hostages that Israel asked to release. Instead, Hamas offered the release of 22 living hostages and 12 bodies. Trump, on Tuesday, warned Palestinian militant group Hamas to release hostages held captive in Gaza before he takes office. “We’re gonna see what happens, I’ll put it this way: they better let the hostages come back soon," Trump said while speaking to a reporter about whether he spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the possibility of a ceasefire and hostage deal. Also read: 'Impossible to reach deal without it,' Hamas still hasn't sent list of living, dead hostages to Israel: Report 'Hell to pay' This comes after Trump took to his official Truth Social handle and issued a stern warning to Hamas to release the hostages before Jan 20, the day when he assumes office, and warned "hell to pay" if Hamas continued to hold the abductees hostage. “...Please let this Truth serve to represent that if the hostages are not released prior to January 20, 2025, the date that I proudly assume Office as President of the United States, there will be all hell to pay in the Middle East, and for those in charge who perpetrated these atrocities against Humanity”, he said. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report

People in Gaza continue to suffer, with many Gazans losing their loved ones to extreme cold. This comes as heavy rains have battered the region, and the harsh weather has added to their plight. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Gaza Welcomes New Year With Hope As Displaced Struggles To Survive In Winter

Former US President Donald Trump has once again warned Hamas to release hostages, stating that failure to do so will result in severe consequences. His statement comes amid ongoing tensions and calls for the safe return of captives held by the militant group.

US: Donald Trump Again Warns Hamas To Free Captives ‘Soon’

2024 was a year marked by conflicts and turmoil across the globe. The year witnessed challenges that shaped global geopolitics, from escalating tensions in war-torn regions to political unrest and humanitarian crises. Watch to know more.

2024 Rewind: Leaders Fall And Raging Wars | Year Of Intensifying Wars In Middle East

2024 Rewind: Year Of War And Revenge For Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attended a session in parliament on Tuesday after being discharged from hospital where he had undergone a prostate removal surgery over the weekend.

Israel PM out of hospital, attends parliament session after surgery

Yemen’s Houthis Target Israel's Ben Gurion Airport and US Military Assets Amid Growing Tensions

As the West Asia crisis escalates, a top Palestinian leader has stressed that the US President-elect Donald Trump would "destroy Iran", leading to the destruction of Hamas' influence.
Israel and Hamas have been in a constant war for more than a year now. The conflict began with the Hamas attack on southern Israel in October last year.&nbsp;
The Hamas group has been rising against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Palestinian+Authority" rel="dofollow">Palestinian Authority</a> - supported by the Western governments including the US - which is run by the rival Fatah party.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-claims-director-of-gazas-kamal-adwan-hospital-a-hamas-terrorist-detains-him-days-after-he-accused-tel-aviv-of-targeting-medical-facility-8574358" rel="dofollow">Israel detains director of Gaza's 'last hospital,' accuses him of being a 'Hamas terrorist'</a>
&ldquo;We are confronting Hamas&rsquo; ideology,&rdquo; Mohammad Hamdan, Secretary General of the PA&rsquo;s ruling Fatah party, told The New York Post.
&ldquo;Our problem is with Hamas&rsquo; link to regimes outside Palestine,&rdquo; Hamdan said, referring to Iran in particular.&nbsp;
Hamdan said he expects Trump's return to the US administration to lead to Hamas and Iran's&nbsp; defeats.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We see that Trump and the ruling government in Israel are planning to destroy Iran, so Hamas [followers] will have no other choice than to become Palestinian,&rdquo; the leader said.&nbsp;
Notably, the Palestinian Authority has killed at least three extremist militants in Jenin since the December 6 incident.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-week-old-baby-girl-freezes-to-death-in-gaza-while-israel-and-hamas-trade-blames-of-ceasefire-delay-8568285" rel="dofollow">Three-week old baby girl freezes to death in Gaza while Israel and Hamas trade blame for ceasefire delay</a>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=hamas" rel="dofollow">Hamas </a>took control of the Gaza Strip after defeating Fatah in the 2006 election. The group had a rule, which included an Islamist crackdown in the Palestinian territory and repeated incursions into Israel.&nbsp;
However, it came to an end with the October 7 attack on Israel.&nbsp;
Further, Hamdan said, &ldquo;Hamas rejects international legitimacy, meaning UN resolutions," adding, &ldquo;The world cannot accept a situation where a party does not accept international resolutions.&rdquo;
Hamdan also said PA President Mahmoud Abbas &ldquo;still supports realistic relations with the Americans in order to achieve the aspirations of the Palestinians.&rdquo;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The Hamas group has been rising up against the Palestinian Authority, which is run by the rival Fatah party, The New York Post reported. 

As the West Asia crisis escalates, a top Palestinian leader has stressed that the US President-elect Donald Trump would "destroy Iran", leading to the destruction of Hamas' influence. Israel and Hamas have been in a constant war for more than a year now. The conflict began with the Hamas attack on southern Israel in October last year. The Hamas group has been rising against the Palestinian Authority - supported by the Western governments including the US - which is run by the rival Fatah party. Also read: Israel detains director of Gaza's 'last hospital,' accuses him of being a 'Hamas terrorist' “We are confronting Hamas’ ideology,” Mohammad Hamdan, Secretary General of the PA’s ruling Fatah party, told The New York Post. “Our problem is with Hamas’ link to regimes outside Palestine,” Hamdan said, referring to Iran in particular. Hamdan said he expects Trump's return to the US administration to lead to Hamas and Iran's defeats. “We see that Trump and the ruling government in Israel are planning to destroy Iran, so Hamas [followers] will have no other choice than to become Palestinian,” the leader said. Notably, the Palestinian Authority has killed at least three extremist militants in Jenin since the December 6 incident. Also read: Three-week old baby girl freezes to death in Gaza while Israel and Hamas trade blame for ceasefire delay Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip after defeating Fatah in the 2006 election. The group had a rule, which included an Islamist crackdown in the Palestinian territory and repeated incursions into Israel. However, it came to an end with the October 7 attack on Israel. Further, Hamdan said, “Hamas rejects international legitimacy, meaning UN resolutions," adding, “The world cannot accept a situation where a party does not accept international resolutions.” Hamdan also said PA President Mahmoud Abbas “still supports realistic relations with the Americans in order to achieve the aspirations of the Palestinians.” Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian leader predicts Trump will 'destroy' Iran

Israel-Hamas War: Gaza Struggles To Survive In Harsh Winter

Israel-Hamas War: Harsh Winter Brings New Agony For Palestinians

Israel-Hamas War: Newborn Babies Are Dying Of Cold In Gaza

People in Gaza continue to suffer, with many Gazans losing their loved ones to extreme cold. This comes as heavy rains have battered the region, and the harsh weather has further added to their plight. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Gaza Newborn Freezes To Death As Rain Floods Tents

Israel-Hamas War: Year of Death | Gaza's Struggle Amidst Rubble and Hardship | WION Rewind 2024

France's top diplomat and defence chief arrived on Monday in Lebanon, where a fragile truce since late November ended intense fighting between Israel and militant group Hezbollah.
Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot and Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu met with Lebanon's army chief Joseph Aoun, and on Tuesday are due to visit UN peacekeepers near the Israeli border.
A Lebanese army statement on social media said that Aoun and the visiting ministers discussed "ways to strengthen cooperation relations between the armies of the two countries and to continue support for the army in light of current circumstances".
Aoun, who is being touted as a possible candidate for Lebanon's president, has been tasked with deploying troops in the south of the country since the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire came into effect on November 27.
Lecornu said on X that he is also due to meet with a French general representing Paris "within the ceasefire monitoring mechanism".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-military-intercepts-missile-launched-by-iran-backed-houthi-rebels-in-yemen-no-casualties-so-far-8579582" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Israel intercepts missile launched by Yemen Houthis; no casualties so far</a>
"Our armies are, and will remain, committed to the stability of Lebanon and the region," he said.
The monitoring body brings together Lebanon, Israel, the United States, France and the United Nations' UNIFIL peacekeeping mission. It is meant to support the implementation of the ceasefire and assess violations.
On Thursday, UNIFIL said it was "concerned" by "the continued destruction" carried out by the Israeli army in southern Lebanon, despite the truce.
Lecornu and Barrot are scheduled to meet on Tuesday with French soldiers deployed with UNIFIL in south Lebanon.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot and Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu met with Lebanon's army chief Joseph Aoun, and on Tuesday are due to visit UN peacekeepers near the Israeli border.

France's top diplomat and defence chief arrived on Monday in Lebanon, where a fragile truce since late November ended intense fighting between Israel and militant group Hezbollah. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot and Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu met with Lebanon's army chief Joseph Aoun, and on Tuesday are due to visit UN peacekeepers near the Israeli border. A Lebanese army statement on social media said that Aoun and the visiting ministers discussed "ways to strengthen cooperation relations between the armies of the two countries and to continue support for the army in light of current circumstances". Aoun, who is being touted as a possible candidate for Lebanon's president, has been tasked with deploying troops in the south of the country since the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire came into effect on November 27. Lecornu said on X that he is also due to meet with a French general representing Paris "within the ceasefire monitoring mechanism". Also read | Israel intercepts missile launched by Yemen Houthis; no casualties so far "Our armies are, and will remain, committed to the stability of Lebanon and the region," he said. The monitoring body brings together Lebanon, Israel, the United States, France and the United Nations' UNIFIL peacekeeping mission. It is meant to support the implementation of the ceasefire and assess violations. On Thursday, UNIFIL said it was "concerned" by "the continued destruction" carried out by the Israeli army in southern Lebanon, despite the truce. Lecornu and Barrot are scheduled to meet on Tuesday with French soldiers deployed with UNIFIL in south Lebanon. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

French ministers in Lebanon to discuss ‘ways to strengthen’ Israel-Hezbollah truce

israel

Israel, News on Israel, stories on Israel, articles on Israel, Israel stories at Wion, Israel news, Israel latest news