As tensions remain high in the Israel-Hamas conflict, both sides report being closer than ever to a potential agreement. However, challenges still stand in the way of a final resolution.

Israel-Hamas War: They 'Have Not Been This Close To An Agreement'

As tensions remain high in the Israel-Hamas conflict, both sides report being closer than ever to a potential agreement. However, challenges still stand in the way of a final resolution.



The US has expressed cautious optimism on the prospects of reaching a ceasefire in Gaza. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said engagements with Hamas and Israel will continue and hoped they would get an agreement between the two parties. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: US Sees 'Cautious Optimism' On Gaza Ceasefire

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: - Netanyahu visits Mount Hermon, vows to protect Israel's security - Former hostages urge Israel to secure release of captives in Gaza - US denies roll in Kirillov killing - Trump threatens India with reciprocal tariff

Netanyahu Visits Mount Hermon, Vows to Protect Israel's Security | WION Speed News

The United States expressed "cautious optimism" on Tuesday regarding the potential for a ceasefire in the 14-month conflict in Gaza. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: US Sees 'Cautious Optimism' on Gaza Ceasefire

Jerusalem 
In a series of plots that involved Iran recruiting Israeli civilians, an Israeli man from Jerusalem was nabbed for carrying out missions for the Islamic nation. 
The 23-year-old suspect named Arlder Israel Amoyal was detained in November over the suspicions that he was “committing security offences related to contact with intelligence officials of the Iranian regime and carrying out security missions in Israel under their direction, for financial gain,” the Shin Bet security agency said. 
Amoyal had connected with Iranian intelligence elements since October via social media. The officials said he was in contact with a profile under the name "Arianna" which later changed the name to "John". 
Watch | Polio Vaccination Team Attacked In Pakistan, At least One Policeman Killed
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/1712_pakistan_6pm_pkwo-1734446423-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1712_pakistan_6pm_pkwo_.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=173&tags=pakistan,polio,World News,WION" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
The investigation revealed that Amoyal was unaware of the fact that "John" was an Iranian operative, but he agreed to carry out surveillance for him. His missions included photographing various addresses and spraying graffiti.
The suspect took photos of a paper with the words "Making Peace" written on it. He further graffitied the word "Sinwar" in Tel Aviv and also took photos of several houses in Netanya and Jerusalem. 
He even purchased a GoPro camera to film his actions and used it to send the footage to his handler "John". 
Amnoyal further worked to recruit others to carry out missions for Iran. He specifically chose people with prior criminal records. 
Shin Bet said Amoyal suggested to "John" to set fire to a police cruiser. He also suggested shutting down power to the Jerusalem light rail.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sara-sharif-murder-sadist-father-and-stepmother-imprisoned-for-life-for-brutally-killing-her-784733">Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life for brutally killing her</a>
He was rewarded for his actions via cryptocurrency. 
An indictment is expected to be filed shortly against him. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Amoyal had connected with Iranian intelligence elements since October via social media. The officials said he was in contact with a profile under the name "Arianna," which later changed the name to "John". 



Jerusalem In a series of plots that involved Iran recruiting Israeli civilians, an Israeli man from Jerusalem was nabbed for carrying out missions for the Islamic nation. The 23-year-old suspect named Arlder Israel Amoyal was detained in November over the suspicions that he was “committing security offences related to contact with intelligence officials of the Iranian regime and carrying out security missions in Israel under their direction, for financial gain,” the Shin Bet security agency said. Amoyal had connected with Iranian intelligence elements since October via social media. The officials said he was in contact with a profile under the name "Arianna" which later changed the name to "John". Watch | Polio Vaccination Team Attacked In Pakistan, At least One Policeman Killed The investigation revealed that Amoyal was unaware of the fact that "John" was an Iranian operative, but he agreed to carry out surveillance for him. His missions included photographing various addresses and spraying graffiti. The suspect took photos of a paper with the words "Making Peace" written on it. He further graffitied the word "Sinwar" in Tel Aviv and also took photos of several houses in Netanya and Jerusalem. He even purchased a GoPro camera to film his actions and used it to send the footage to his handler "John". Amnoyal further worked to recruit others to carry out missions for Iran. He specifically chose people with prior criminal records. Shin Bet said Amoyal suggested to "John" to set fire to a police cruiser. He also suggested shutting down power to the Jerusalem light rail. Also read | Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life for brutally killing her He was rewarded for his actions via cryptocurrency. An indictment is expected to be filed shortly against him. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel arrests Jerusalem man for spying on behalf of Iran

Beirut, Lebanon
Fourteen months after stepping into the Israel-Hamas war which began with the horrific October 7 attack, Hezbollah lost several fighters and saw its backbone breaking by the brunt it bore of Israel's offensive. 
The number of fighters Hezbollah has lost in these 14 months is several thousand but what has shaken it to its core is the killing of its leaders and attack on its systems. Here's how 2024 looked for Hezbollah.
<h2>Strike on headquarters of Hezbollah and killing of Nasrallah</h2>
On September 27, 2024, Hezbollah secretary-general Hassan Nasrallah was killed after Israel launched an airstrike on their headquarters in Beirut. 
The strike happened when Hezbollah leaders were holding a meeting in their headquarters, which was in the underground below the residential buildings in the south of Beirut.
The Israeli Air Force used F-15I fighters and dropped more than 80 bombs, which included US-made 2,000-pound (910 kg) bunker buster bombs with which the underground headquarters along with the nearby buildings were destroyed.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-to-syrias-new-rulers-dont-normalise-ties-with-israel-after-assads-ouster-784055"> ‘Don’t normalise ties with Israel’: Hezbollah to Syria’s new rulers after Assad’s ouster</a>
The IDF announced Nasrallah's death on September 28, and after two days, his body was recovered from the rubble.
<h2>Hezbollah's trembling throne </h2>
This was not the first time any Hezbollah leader was killed. Israel had neutralised Hezbollah's senior military leader, Fuad Shukr, in July. 
Hezbollah's commander of Southern Front, Ali Karaki, was also killed. However, Nasrallah's death left Hezbollah without any leader as the militant outfit struggled to fill the vacuum.
They named Naim Qassem as their interim leader, however, many reports suggested that Hashem Safieddine will be the next Secretary-General. 
Safieddine survived a lot of attacks, but was finally killed in an Israeli airstrike on October 3. On October 29, Hezbollah elected Qassem as the secretary-general and Nasrallah's successor. 
<h2>Israel breaks Hezbollah's communication backbone</h2>
In a never-thought kind of attack, thousands of handheld pagers and walkie-talkies of Hezbollah members exploded on September 17 and 18 in what was Israel's well co-ordinated series of attacks.
In the explosions, at least 42 people were killed and 3,500 others were injured, which included many civilians. 
The blast showed the world how the compromise of low-tech wireless communication devices can turn deadly. The attack was a brutal strike on the militant group's "Achilles' heel".
Watch: Israel-Hezbollah Exchange Fire Despite Truce 
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/06/0612_Manav_ISRAEL_730PM-1733498115-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0612_Manav_ISRAEL_730PM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=208&tags=israel,Hezbollah,Lebanon,war,Middle East" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
The wireless pagers suddenly exploded at 3:30 pm (local time) in Lebanon just after a message was delivered on the device, which appeared to have been sent by the leadership of Hezbollah. 
As per the officials, the delivery of the messages activated the explosives as the device beeped for many seconds before it exploded. 
The explosions underscored how vulnerable Hezbollah’s communication network is and how it was compromised, which led to the deadly blasts.
(With inputs from agencies)

Israel killed Hezbollah secretary-general Hassan Nasrallah on September 27 and soon after launched a shocking pager attack on them which broke their "Achilles' heel"



Beirut, Lebanon Fourteen months after stepping into the Israel-Hamas war which began with the horrific October 7 attack, Hezbollah lost several fighters and saw its backbone breaking by the brunt it bore of Israel's offensive. The number of fighters Hezbollah has lost in these 14 months is several thousand but what has shaken it to its core is the killing of its leaders and attack on its systems. Here's how 2024 looked for Hezbollah. Strike on headquarters of Hezbollah and killing of Nasrallah On September 27, 2024, Hezbollah secretary-general Hassan Nasrallah was killed after Israel launched an airstrike on their headquarters in Beirut. The strike happened when Hezbollah leaders were holding a meeting in their headquarters, which was in the underground below the residential buildings in the south of Beirut. The Israeli Air Force used F-15I fighters and dropped more than 80 bombs, which included US-made 2,000-pound (910 kg) bunker buster bombs with which the underground headquarters along with the nearby buildings were destroyed. Also Read: ‘Don’t normalise ties with Israel’: Hezbollah to Syria’s new rulers after Assad’s ouster The IDF announced Nasrallah's death on September 28, and after two days, his body was recovered from the rubble. Hezbollah's trembling throne This was not the first time any Hezbollah leader was killed. Israel had neutralised Hezbollah's senior military leader, Fuad Shukr, in July. Hezbollah's commander of Southern Front, Ali Karaki, was also killed. However, Nasrallah's death left Hezbollah without any leader as the militant outfit struggled to fill the vacuum. They named Naim Qassem as their interim leader, however, many reports suggested that Hashem Safieddine will be the next Secretary-General. Safieddine survived a lot of attacks, but was finally killed in an Israeli airstrike on October 3. On October 29, Hezbollah elected Qassem as the secretary-general and Nasrallah's successor. Israel breaks Hezbollah's communication backbone In a never-thought kind of attack, thousands of handheld pagers and walkie-talkies of Hezbollah members exploded on September 17 and 18 in what was Israel's well co-ordinated series of attacks. In the explosions, at least 42 people were killed and 3,500 others were injured, which included many civilians. The blast showed the world how the compromise of low-tech wireless communication devices can turn deadly. The attack was a brutal strike on the militant group's "Achilles' heel". Watch: Israel-Hezbollah Exchange Fire Despite Truce The wireless pagers suddenly exploded at 3:30 pm (local time) in Lebanon just after a message was delivered on the device, which appeared to have been sent by the leadership of Hezbollah. As per the officials, the delivery of the messages activated the explosives as the device beeped for many seconds before it exploded. The explosions underscored how vulnerable Hezbollah’s communication network is and how it was compromised, which led to the deadly blasts. (With inputs from agencies)

A flashback into all that Hezbollah lost in war between Israel and Hamas in 2024

Two major developments are occurring in West Asia. Israel has dropped an ‘earthquake bomb’ in Syria, its impact was so strong that it was measured as a 3.1 magnitude tremor. Simultaneously, Iran is arousing fear with its new secret ship and fighter jet. Will these developments set the stage for a larger confrontation? The early stages of a new arms race that could engulf the region in further chaos? Watch in fort more details!

Israel Drops ‘Earthquake Bomb’ As Iran Arouses Fear With Secret Ship And Fighter Jet

Israel to expand settlements in Golan heights. Watch in to know more.

Is Golan Heights Becoming West Bank 2.0?

Tel Aviv, Israel
Israeli strikes on the Syrian military sites filled the skies with 'colossal' explosions as the blasts got registered on earthquake sensors,  according to a war monitor group.
The military sites located in the coastal Tartus region were targeted by what was one of "the heaviest strikes" in the Syrian area in more than a decade, said Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
"Israeli warplanes launched strikes' targeting a series of sites including air defence units and 'surface-to-surface missile depots," the war monitor said in what it called "the heaviest strikes in Syria's coastal region since the start of strikes in 2012."
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
BREAKING:
???? The Israeli airstrike and the resulting explosion in Tartous, Syria was so large, that an earthquake alert of 3.0 on the Richter Scale was triggered <a href="https://t.co/DNqdJEOIKs">pic.twitter.com/DNqdJEOIKs</a>
— Megatron (@Megatron_ron) <a href="https://twitter.com/Megatron_ron/status/1868453865781109114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>
As per the officials, the explosion was so huge that its magnitude of 3.0 was recorded on seismic sensors.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-greenlights-11-million-plan-to-double-golan-heights-population-amid-regional-tensions-784232">Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions</a>
Tartus has been one of the two military bases of Russia in Syria and was earlier used as a naval base and an ammunition depot.
The huge explosion, along with the secondary explosions, indicated that a large volume of stored armaments was present in the area.
<h2>Video of the explosion circulates on social media </h2>
In the dramatic videos which circulated on the social media platform, a huge bright flash was seen, followed by various explosions that led to the formation of an enormous cloud of smoke into the air. 
Watch: Israel Aims to 'Double Population' in Occupied Golan Heights
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/16/1612_Manav_ISRAEL_730AM-1734317409-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1612_Manav_ISRAEL_730AM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=514&tags=israel,Syria,Golan Heights,population" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
Earlier, Russia's foreign ministry said that it had evacuated some of the diplomatic staff from Syria, a week after the nation's dictator Bashar al-Assad fled the country.
As per researcher Richard Cordaro, a magnetometer station which is 820km away in Isnik, Turkey also detected the blast.
He said the signal travelled nearly 'twice as fast' as that of a normal earthquake.
In 1971, the Soviet Union was the one to first establish a naval military base in Tartus.
The facility had been classed as a "Material-Technical Support Point" till 2017 and not as a base, and is the only entrance point to the Mediterranean for Russia.
The centre was used for carrying out the supply and delivery of armaments after Russia participated in the Syrian civil war in 2015.
A Kremlin spokesperson said on Wednesday (Dec 11) that Moscow has been in touch with the new authorities in Syria and discussing the future of their bases.
(With inputs from agencies)
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like 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.

As per the war monitor group, one of "the heaviest strikes" targeted the coastal Tartus region of Syria

 



Tel Aviv, Israel Israeli strikes on the Syrian military sites filled the skies with 'colossal' explosions as the blasts got registered on earthquake sensors, according to a war monitor group. The military sites located in the coastal Tartus region were targeted by what was one of "the heaviest strikes" in the Syrian area in more than a decade, said Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. "Israeli warplanes launched strikes' targeting a series of sites including air defence units and 'surface-to-surface missile depots," the war monitor said in what it called "the heaviest strikes in Syria's coastal region since the start of strikes in 2012." BREAKING: ???? The Israeli airstrike and the resulting explosion in Tartous, Syria was so large, that an earthquake alert of 3.0 on the Richter Scale was triggered pic.twitter.com/DNqdJEOIKs — Megatron (@Megatron_ron) December 16, 2024 × As per the officials, the explosion was so huge that its magnitude of 3.0 was recorded on seismic sensors. Also Read: Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions Tartus has been one of the two military bases of Russia in Syria and was earlier used as a naval base and an ammunition depot. The huge explosion, along with the secondary explosions, indicated that a large volume of stored armaments was present in the area. Video of the explosion circulates on social media In the dramatic videos which circulated on the social media platform, a huge bright flash was seen, followed by various explosions that led to the formation of an enormous cloud of smoke into the air. Watch: Israel Aims to 'Double Population' in Occupied Golan Heights Earlier, Russia's foreign ministry said that it had evacuated some of the diplomatic staff from Syria, a week after the nation's dictator Bashar al-Assad fled the country. As per researcher Richard Cordaro, a magnetometer station which is 820km away in Isnik, Turkey also detected the blast. He said the signal travelled nearly 'twice as fast' as that of a normal earthquake. In 1971, the Soviet Union was the one to first establish a naval military base in Tartus. The facility had been classed as a "Material-Technical Support Point" till 2017 and not as a base, and is the only entrance point to the Mediterranean for Russia. The centre was used for carrying out the supply and delivery of armaments after Russia participated in the Syrian civil war in 2015. A Kremlin spokesperson said on Wednesday (Dec 11) that Moscow has been in touch with the new authorities in Syria and discussing the future of their bases. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like 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.

Watch: Israel drops 'earthquake bomb' on Syria, explosion gets 'registered on Richter scale'

The Israeli government approved a plan to increase the population of the annexed Golan Heights while insisting it had no intention of confronting Syria after seizing a UN-monitored buffer zone.

Israel Aims to 'Double' Golan Heights' Population

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with US President-elect Donald Trump about developments in Syria and hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, he said on Sunday. Watch for more details!

Donald Trump And Netanyahu Discuss Gaza Ceasefire

The Israeli government approved a plan to increase the population of the annexed Golan Heights, while insisting it had no intention of confronting Syria after seizing a UN-monitored buffer zone.

Israel Aims to 'Double Population' in Occupied Golan Heights

Israeli strikes on the Syrian military sites filled the skies with 'colossal' explosions as the blasts got registered on earthquake sensors,&nbsp;&nbsp;according to a war monitor group.

The military sites located in the coastal Tartus region were targeted by what was one of "the heaviest strikes" in the Syrian area in more than a decade, said Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

"Israeli warplanes launched strikes' targeting a series of sites including air defence units and 'surface-to-surface missile depots," the war monitor said in what it called "the heaviest strikes in Syria's coastal region since the start of strikes in 2012."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
BREAKING: 
 
🇮🇱🇸🇾 The Israeli airstrike and the resulting explosion in Tartous, Syria was so large, that an earthquake alert of 3.0 on the Richter Scale was triggered <a href="https://t.co/DNqdJEOIKs">pic.twitter.com/DNqdJEOIKs</a>
— Megatron (@Megatron_ron) <a href="https://twitter.com/Megatron_ron/status/1868453865781109114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As per the officials, the explosion was so huge that its magnitude of 3.0 was recorded on seismic sensors.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-greenlights-11-million-plan-to-double-golan-heights-population-amid-regional-tensions-784232">Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions</a>

Tartus has been one of the two military bases of Russia in Syria and was earlier used as a naval base and an ammunition depot.

The huge explosion, along with the secondary explosions, indicated that a large volume of stored armaments was present in the area.

<h2>Video of the explosion circulates on social media&nbsp;</h2>

In the dramatic videos which circulated on the social media platform, a huge bright flash was seen, followed by various explosions that led to the formation of an enormous cloud of smoke into the air.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Israel Aims to 'Double Population' in Occupied Golan Heights

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-aims-to-double-population-in-occupied-golan-heights-784239/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Earlier, Russia's foreign ministry said that it had evacuated some of the diplomatic staff from Syria, a week after the nation's dictator Bashar al-Assad fled the country.

As per researcher Richard Cordaro, a magnetometer station which is 820km away in Isnik, Turkey also detected the blast.

He said the signal travelled nearly 'twice as fast' as that of a normal earthquake.

In 1971, the Soviet Union was the one to first establish a naval military base in Tartus.

The facility had been classed as a "Material-Technical Support Point" till 2017 and not as a base, and is the only entrance point to the Mediterranean for Russia.

The centre was used for carrying out the supply and delivery of armaments after Russia participated in the Syrian civil war in 2015.

A Kremlin spokesperson said on Wednesday (Dec 11) that Moscow has been in touch with the new authorities in Syria and discussing the future of their bases.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like 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.

Israeli strikes on the Syrian military sites filled the skies with 'colossal' explosions as the blasts got registered on earthquake sensors, according to a war monitor group.

Israeli strikes on the Syrian military sites filled the skies with 'colossal' explosions as the blasts got registered on earthquake sensors, according to a war monitor group. The military sites located in the coastal Tartus region were targeted by what was one of "the heaviest strikes" in the Syrian area in more than a decade, said Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. "Israeli warplanes launched strikes' targeting a series of sites including air defence units and 'surface-to-surface missile depots," the war monitor said in what it called "the heaviest strikes in Syria's coastal region since the start of strikes in 2012." BREAKING: 🇮🇱🇸🇾 The Israeli airstrike and the resulting explosion in Tartous, Syria was so large, that an earthquake alert of 3.0 on the Richter Scale was triggered pic.twitter.com/DNqdJEOIKs — Megatron (@Megatron_ron) December 16, 2024 × As per the officials, the explosion was so huge that its magnitude of 3.0 was recorded on seismic sensors. Also Read: Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions Tartus has been one of the two military bases of Russia in Syria and was earlier used as a naval base and an ammunition depot. The huge explosion, along with the secondary explosions, indicated that a large volume of stored armaments was present in the area. Video of the explosion circulates on social media In the dramatic videos which circulated on the social media platform, a huge bright flash was seen, followed by various explosions that led to the formation of an enormous cloud of smoke into the air. Watch: Israel Aims to 'Double Population' in Occupied Golan Heights Earlier, Russia's foreign ministry said that it had evacuated some of the diplomatic staff from Syria, a week after the nation's dictator Bashar al-Assad fled the country. As per researcher Richard Cordaro, a magnetometer station which is 820km away in Isnik, Turkey also detected the blast. He said the signal travelled nearly 'twice as fast' as that of a normal earthquake. In 1971, the Soviet Union was the one to first establish a naval military base in Tartus. The facility had been classed as a "Material-Technical Support Point" till 2017 and not as a base, and is the only entrance point to the Mediterranean for Russia. The centre was used for carrying out the supply and delivery of armaments after Russia participated in the Syrian civil war in 2015. A Kremlin spokesperson said on Wednesday (Dec 11) that Moscow has been in touch with the new authorities in Syria and discussing the future of their bases. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like 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.

Tel Aviv, Israel
Israeli strikes on Iran in October reduced Tehran's ability to produce fuel for ballistic missiles, an unnamed Israeli military source told The Washington Post, The Times of Israel reported. 
Earlier, Iran was able to produce fuel for two new ballistic missiles a day, which has now been probably limited to one per week. 
It was assumed that the shortfall would continue for a year, the source told the newspaper. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/third-attack-on-israel-would-cripple-irans-economy-netanyahu-775714">Also read: Third attack on Israel would cripple Iran's economy, says Netanyahu</a>
Former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant told The Washington Post that the aim of the October 26 strikes at air defences and reportedly an active nuclear weapons research facility, was to make sure that “Iran is weaker and Israel is stronger,” with Tehran unable to respond to future strikes.
“There is no strategic defence around Tehran,” he added. 
Gallant further said that the strikes, which were in retaliation for a massive Iranian ballistic missile barrage on Israel on October 1, created "a window to act against Iran” before it manufactures a nuclear weapon.
Watch | Israel-Syria: 60 Israeli Strikes On Syria In Less Than Four Hours
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/15/1512_HEZ_730AM-1734231907-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1512_HEZ_730AM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=614&tags=israel,Syria,Hamas,Hezbollah,strikes" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>
He also confirmed that Israel was behind the strike in April on a radar system for an air defence battery in Isfahan, Iran, adding that the strike was in response to Tehran's massive drone-and-missile attack against Israel on April 13. 
“We hit them precisely, but it wasn’t enough to deter them,” he stressed. 
(With inputs from agencies)
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.

Earlier, Iran was able to produce fuel for two new ballistic missiles a day, which has now been probably limited to one per week. 



Tel Aviv, Israel Israeli strikes on Iran in October reduced Tehran's ability to produce fuel for ballistic missiles, an unnamed Israeli military source told The Washington Post, The Times of Israel reported. Earlier, Iran was able to produce fuel for two new ballistic missiles a day, which has now been probably limited to one per week. It was assumed that the shortfall would continue for a year, the source told the newspaper. Also read: Third attack on Israel would cripple Iran's economy, says Netanyahu Former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant told The Washington Post that the aim of the October 26 strikes at air defences and reportedly an active nuclear weapons research facility, was to make sure that “Iran is weaker and Israel is stronger,” with Tehran unable to respond to future strikes. “There is no strategic defence around Tehran,” he added. Gallant further said that the strikes, which were in retaliation for a massive Iranian ballistic missile barrage on Israel on October 1, created "a window to act against Iran” before it manufactures a nuclear weapon. Watch | Israel-Syria: 60 Israeli Strikes On Syria In Less Than Four Hours × He also confirmed that Israel was behind the strike in April on a radar system for an air defence battery in Isfahan, Iran, adding that the strike was in response to Tehran's massive drone-and-missile attack against Israel on April 13. “We hit them precisely, but it wasn’t enough to deter them,” he stressed. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Israel’s October strikes reduced Iran’s ability to produce ballistic missiles: Report

New Delhi, India
Israel on Sunday (Dec 15) announced to close its embassy in Dublin, citing the Ireland government's "extreme anti-Israel policies". 
Meanwhile, South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol has reportedly defied summons from prosecutors investigating him on charges of insurrection as he faces impeachment in the martial law inquiry. 
Click on the headlines to read more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-close-embassy-in-dublin-after-ireland-backs-icj-genocide-petition-784189">Israel to close embassy in Dublin after Ireland backs ICJ genocide petition</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/15/471333-untitled-design-3.jpg"/>
Israel has announced it will close its embassy in Dublin, citing the Irish government's stance on Israel, particularly its support for a petition at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of genocide. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar made the announcement on Sunday, describing Ireland’s actions as “extreme anti-Israel policies.”
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-yoon-defies-summons-as-prosecutors-probe-martial-law-declaration-vows-to-fight-to-the-end-784197">South Korea’s Yoon defies summons as prosecutors probe martial law declaration, vows to ‘fight to the end’</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/03/469337-untitled-design-2.jpg"/>
South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has reportedly ignored summons from prosecutors investigating him on charges of insurrection as he faces impeachment after imposing martial law.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-strikes-syria-overnight-as-rebel-leader-warns-of-unwarranted-escalation-784154">West Asia crisis: Israel strikes Syria overnight, rebel leader warns of 'unwarranted escalation'</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/15/471311-00036q27k4.jpg"/>
Israel launched a series of airstrikes on multiple sites in Syria overnight, despite the Syrian rebel leader, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, saying that his group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has no interest in engaging in conflict with Israel.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/complex-relations-with-china-says-uk-home-secretary-yvette-cooper-amid-prince-andrew-spy-row-784191">'Complex relations with China,' says UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper amid Prince Andrew spy row</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/15/471334-untitled-design-12.jpg"/>
British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper admitted that the UK government has a "complex arrangement" with China because of the need for economic cooperation, amid the exclusion of an alleged Chinese spy with links to Prince Andrew. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-techie-suicide-case-atul-subhashs-father-pleads-for-grandsons-custody-after-nikitas-arrest-784187">Bengaluru techie suicide case: Atul Subhash's father pleads for grandson's custody after Nikita's arrest</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/15/471332-untitled-design-11.jpg"/>
Atul Subhash's father on Saturday (Dec 15) pleaded for the custody of his grandson, saying that the family was worried about him. The techie's father questioned where was Atul's four-year-old son and appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and others to ensure his grandson's custody. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-oil-tanker-splits-in-half-spilling-thousands-of-tonnes-of-oil-into-kerch-strait-784177">Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/15/471325-eae185566106d18e235ed7da31b32b1f.jpeg"/>
A Russian oil tanker carrying thousands of tonnes of oil products split apart during a heavy storm on Sunday, spilling oil into the Kerch Strait, while another tanker was also in distress after sustaining damage, Russian officials said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahayuti-swearing-in-members-take-oath-in-nagpur-in-presence-of-cm-fadnavis-784170">Maharashtra Cabinet: 39 Mahayuti ministers take oath in Nagpur in presence of CM Fadnavis</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/15/471321-untitled-design-9.jpg"/>
The Mahayuti cabinet was sworn in on Sunday (Dec 15) after a massive victory in the Maharashtra Assembly elections. The swearing ceremony was held in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his deputies, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-polls-aap-announces-final-candidate-list-kejriwal-atishi-to-contest-from-new-delhi-784153">Delhi polls: AAP announces final list of candidates, Kejriwal to contest from New Delhi seat</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/15/471319-untitled-design-1.jpg"/>
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday (Dec 15) announced its final list of 38 candidates for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. Former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal will contest from the New Delhi seat, aiming for his fourth term in a row. Chief Minister Atishi has been fielded from Kalkaji, while former health minister Satyendar Jain will contest from Shakur Basti.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-jasprit-bumrah-emulates-wasim-akram-with-record-breaking-five-for-in-gabba-784194">BGT 2024-25: Jasprit Bumrah emulates Wasim Akram with record-breaking five-for in Gabba Test</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/09/470292-mixcollage-09-dec-2024-02-42-pm-5180.jpg"/>
Jasprit Bumrah was the only shining light for India on day 2 (Sunday) of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Gabba in Brisbane against Australia. Bumrah took his second five-for of the series as Australia finished the day on 407/5. With his latest five-for, Bumrah became the first visiting pacer since Pakistan's Wasim Akram in 1990 to take three or more five-for in Australia.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jamie-foxx-sufferers-injuries-after-glass-was-thrown-at-him-during-birthday-dinner-784152">Jamie Foxx suffers injuries after glass was thrown at him during birthday dinner</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2023/05/04/349376-horizons-2023-05-04t081838241.jpg"/>
Actor Jamie Foxx's birthday celebration took a dramatic turn when someone threw a glass at him. The shocking incident that left the actor injured happened when the actor was enjoying his birthday dinner at Mr Chow restaurant in Beverly Hills, California, on Friday (Dec 13).

Here are the top 10 news stories from across the world.



New Delhi, India Israel on Sunday (Dec 15) announced to close its embassy in Dublin, citing the Ireland government's "extreme anti-Israel policies". Meanwhile, South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol has reportedly defied summons from prosecutors investigating him on charges of insurrection as he faces impeachment in the martial law inquiry. Click on the headlines to read more Israel to close embassy in Dublin after Ireland backs ICJ genocide petition Israel has announced it will close its embassy in Dublin, citing the Irish government's stance on Israel, particularly its support for a petition at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of genocide. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar made the announcement on Sunday, describing Ireland’s actions as “extreme anti-Israel policies.” South Korea’s Yoon defies summons as prosecutors probe martial law declaration, vows to ‘fight to the end’ South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has reportedly ignored summons from prosecutors investigating him on charges of insurrection as he faces impeachment after imposing martial law. West Asia crisis: Israel strikes Syria overnight, rebel leader warns of 'unwarranted escalation' Israel launched a series of airstrikes on multiple sites in Syria overnight, despite the Syrian rebel leader, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, saying that his group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has no interest in engaging in conflict with Israel. 'Complex relations with China,' says UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper amid Prince Andrew spy row British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper admitted that the UK government has a "complex arrangement" with China because of the need for economic cooperation, amid the exclusion of an alleged Chinese spy with links to Prince Andrew. Bengaluru techie suicide case: Atul Subhash's father pleads for grandson's custody after Nikita's arrest Atul Subhash's father on Saturday (Dec 15) pleaded for the custody of his grandson, saying that the family was worried about him. The techie's father questioned where was Atul's four-year-old son and appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and others to ensure his grandson's custody. Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait A Russian oil tanker carrying thousands of tonnes of oil products split apart during a heavy storm on Sunday, spilling oil into the Kerch Strait, while another tanker was also in distress after sustaining damage, Russian officials said. Maharashtra Cabinet: 39 Mahayuti ministers take oath in Nagpur in presence of CM Fadnavis The Mahayuti cabinet was sworn in on Sunday (Dec 15) after a massive victory in the Maharashtra Assembly elections. The swearing ceremony was held in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his deputies, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar. Delhi polls: AAP announces final list of candidates, Kejriwal to contest from New Delhi seat The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday (Dec 15) announced its final list of 38 candidates for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. Former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal will contest from the New Delhi seat, aiming for his fourth term in a row. Chief Minister Atishi has been fielded from Kalkaji, while former health minister Satyendar Jain will contest from Shakur Basti. BGT 2024-25: Jasprit Bumrah emulates Wasim Akram with record-breaking five-for in Gabba Test Jasprit Bumrah was the only shining light for India on day 2 (Sunday) of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Gabba in Brisbane against Australia. Bumrah took his second five-for of the series as Australia finished the day on 407/5. With his latest five-for, Bumrah became the first visiting pacer since Pakistan's Wasim Akram in 1990 to take three or more five-for in Australia. Jamie Foxx suffers injuries after glass was thrown at him during birthday dinner Actor Jamie Foxx's birthday celebration took a dramatic turn when someone threw a glass at him. The shocking incident that left the actor injured happened when the actor was enjoying his birthday dinner at Mr Chow restaurant in Beverly Hills, California, on Friday (Dec 13).

Top 10 world news: Israel to close embassy in Dublin; South Korea President defies summons, and more

Tel aviv, Israel 
<meta charset="utf-8"/>Israel has announced it will close its embassy in Dublin, citing the Irish government's stance on Israel, particularly its support for a petition at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of genocide. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar made the announcement on Sunday, describing Ireland’s actions as “extreme anti-Israel policies.”
<h2 dir="ltr">Ireland’s support for ICJ petition</h2>
The embassy closure follows Ireland's decision to join a petition at the ICJ in The Hague, accusing Israel of genocide related to its actions in the Palestinian territories. Israel has stated that this, along with Ireland’s previous recognition of a Palestinian state, has led to a significant breakdown in relations.
In a statement, Sa'ar said, "The actions and antisemitic rhetoric used by Ireland against Israel are rooted in the de-legitimisation and demonisation of the Jewish state, along with double standards. Ireland has crossed every red line in its relations with Israel."
<h2>Statement by the Tánaiste </h2>
The Tánaiste expressed regret over Israel's decision to close its Dublin embassy, emphasizing the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels.
"Ireland’s stance on the Middle East conflict is rooted in international law and humanitarian principles. We condemned the Hamas attacks on Israel on 7 October 2023 and have equally called out Israel's military operations in Gaza, which constitute collective punishment, violate international law, and cause unacceptable civilian suffering."
He stressed that Ireland is still calling for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and more humanitarian aid to Gaza. He also confirmed that Ireland will keep its embassy in Israel to continue diplomatic work.
<h2>Ireland rejects the accusations</h2>
Ireland has strongly rejected Israel’s claims. Prime Minister Simon Harris expressed his regret over the Israeli decision to close the embassy. “I utterly reject the assertion that Ireland is anti-Israel,” Harris said in a statement, underscoring that Ireland continues to seek a balanced approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
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.

Israel has announced the closure of its embassy in Dublin, citing Ireland's support for an International Court of Justice (ICJ) petition accusing Israel of genocide. 



Tel aviv, Israel Israel has announced it will close its embassy in Dublin, citing the Irish government's stance on Israel, particularly its support for a petition at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of genocide. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar made the announcement on Sunday, describing Ireland’s actions as “extreme anti-Israel policies.” Ireland’s support for ICJ petition The embassy closure follows Ireland's decision to join a petition at the ICJ in The Hague, accusing Israel of genocide related to its actions in the Palestinian territories. Israel has stated that this, along with Ireland’s previous recognition of a Palestinian state, has led to a significant breakdown in relations. In a statement, Sa'ar said, "The actions and antisemitic rhetoric used by Ireland against Israel are rooted in the de-legitimisation and demonisation of the Jewish state, along with double standards. Ireland has crossed every red line in its relations with Israel." Statement by the Tánaiste The Tánaiste expressed regret over Israel's decision to close its Dublin embassy, emphasizing the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels. "Ireland’s stance on the Middle East conflict is rooted in international law and humanitarian principles. We condemned the Hamas attacks on Israel on 7 October 2023 and have equally called out Israel's military operations in Gaza, which constitute collective punishment, violate international law, and cause unacceptable civilian suffering." He stressed that Ireland is still calling for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and more humanitarian aid to Gaza. He also confirmed that Ireland will keep its embassy in Israel to continue diplomatic work. Ireland rejects the accusations Ireland has strongly rejected Israel’s claims. Prime Minister Simon Harris expressed his regret over the Israeli decision to close the embassy. “I utterly reject the assertion that Ireland is anti-Israel,” Harris said in a statement, underscoring that Ireland continues to seek a balanced approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict. 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.

Israel to close embassy in Dublin after Ireland backs ICJ genocide petition

Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem said on Saturday that Syria's new rulers, who ousted the Lebanese armed group's ally, Bashar al-Assad, should not establish ties with neighbouring Israel.

Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem said on Saturday that Syria's new rulers, who ousted the Lebanese armed group's ally, Bashar al-Assad, should not establish ties with neighbouring Israel. "We hope that this new party in power will see Israel as an enemy and not normalise relations with it," Qassem said in a televised speech, his first public remarks since Islamist-led rebels toppled Assad, who had Hezbollah's military support during the civil war that began after a 2011 crackdown on anti-government protests. The rebel forces launched their offensive on November 27, the same day that a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect. On Sunday, they declared Damascus had fallen, with Assad having fled the country. Iran-backed Hezbollah has suffered major blows during more than a year of cross-border fighting with Israel, which the Lebanese group had initiated over the Gaza war. In late September, the clashes rapidly escalated into full-blown war. Also read: Hamas refused to provide names of hostages it's holding: Biden's advisor In his speech on Saturday, Qassem maintained that the ceasefire agreement does not mean Hezbollah is required to lay down its weapons. The deal stipulates that over 60 days, the Lebanese army and UN peacekeepers would deploy in southern Lebanon. At the same time, Israeli military forces as well as Hezbollah militants withdraw from the border area -- Hezbollah to the north, and Israeli troops back to their country. Hezbollah was the only Lebanese armed group that refused to surrender its weapons after Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war, vowing to keep fighting Israel. 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.

‘Don’t normalise ties with Israel’: Hezbollah to Syria’s new rulers after Assad’s ouster

Israeli strikes on Iran in October reduced Tehran's ability to produce fuel for ballistic missiles, an unnamed Israeli military source told The Washington Post, The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;

Earlier, Iran was able to produce fuel for two new ballistic missiles a day, which has now been probably limited to one per week.&nbsp;

It was assumed that the shortfall would continue for a year, the source told the newspaper.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/third-attack-on-israel-would-cripple-irans-economy-netanyahu-775714">Also read:&nbsp;Third attack on Israel would cripple Iran's economy, says Netanyahu</a>

Former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant told The Washington Post that the aim of the October 26 strikes at air defences and reportedly an active nuclear weapons research facility, was to make sure that “Iran is weaker and Israel is stronger,” with Tehran unable to respond to future strikes.

“There is no strategic defence around Tehran,” he added.&nbsp;

Gallant further said that the strikes, which were in retaliation for a massive Iranian ballistic missile barrage on Israel on October 1, created "a window to act against Iran” before it manufactures a nuclear weapon.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Syria: 60 Israeli Strikes On Syria In Less Than Four Hours

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-syria-60-israeli-strikes-on-syria-in-less-than-four-hours-784061/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He also confirmed that Israel was behind the strike in April on a radar system for an air defence battery in Isfahan, Iran, adding that the strike was in response to Tehran's massive drone-and-missile attack against Israel on April 13.&nbsp;

“We hit them precisely, but it wasn’t enough to deter them,” he stressed.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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.

&nbsp;

Israeli strikes on Iran in October reduced Tehran's ability to produce fuel for ballistic missiles, an unnamed Israeli military source told The Washington Post, The Times of Israel reported.

Israeli strikes on Iran in October reduced Tehran's ability to produce fuel for ballistic missiles, an unnamed Israeli military source told The Washington Post, The Times of Israel reported. Earlier, Iran was able to produce fuel for two new ballistic missiles a day, which has now been probably limited to one per week. It was assumed that the shortfall would continue for a year, the source told the newspaper. Also read: Third attack on Israel would cripple Iran's economy, says Netanyahu Former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant told The Washington Post that the aim of the October 26 strikes at air defences and reportedly an active nuclear weapons research facility, was to make sure that “Iran is weaker and Israel is stronger,” with Tehran unable to respond to future strikes. “There is no strategic defence around Tehran,” he added. Gallant further said that the strikes, which were in retaliation for a massive Iranian ballistic missile barrage on Israel on October 1, created "a window to act against Iran” before it manufactures a nuclear weapon. Watch | Israel-Syria: 60 Israeli Strikes On Syria In Less Than Four Hours × He also confirmed that Israel was behind the strike in April on a radar system for an air defence battery in Isfahan, Iran, adding that the strike was in response to Tehran's massive drone-and-missile attack against Israel on April 13. “We hit them precisely, but it wasn’t enough to deter them,” he stressed. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Israel on Sunday (Dec 15) announced to close its embassy in Dublin, citing the Ireland government's "extreme anti-Israel policies".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol has reportedly defied summons from prosecutors investigating him on charges of insurrection as he faces impeachment in the martial law inquiry.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-close-embassy-in-dublin-after-ireland-backs-icj-genocide-petition-784189">Israel to close embassy in Dublin after Ireland backs ICJ genocide petition</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/15/471333-untitled-design-3.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Israel has announced it will close its embassy in Dublin, citing the Irish government's stance on Israel, particularly its support for a petition at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of genocide. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar made the announcement on Sunday, describing Ireland’s actions as “extreme anti-Israel policies.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-yoon-defies-summons-as-prosecutors-probe-martial-law-declaration-vows-to-fight-to-the-end-784197">South Korea’s Yoon defies summons as prosecutors probe martial law declaration, vows to ‘fight to the end’</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/03/469337-untitled-design-2.jpg?imwidth=400" />

South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has reportedly ignored summons from prosecutors investigating him on charges of insurrection as he faces impeachment after imposing martial law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-strikes-syria-overnight-as-rebel-leader-warns-of-unwarranted-escalation-784154">West Asia crisis: Israel strikes Syria overnight, rebel leader warns of 'unwarranted escalation'</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/15/471311-00036q27k4.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Israel launched a series of airstrikes on multiple sites in Syria overnight, despite the Syrian rebel leader, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, saying that his group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has no interest in engaging in conflict with Israel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/complex-relations-with-china-says-uk-home-secretary-yvette-cooper-amid-prince-andrew-spy-row-784191">'Complex relations with China,' says UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper amid Prince Andrew spy row</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/15/471334-untitled-design-12.jpg?imwidth=400" />

British Home Secretary&nbsp;Yvette Cooper&nbsp;admitted that the UK government has a "complex arrangement" with China because of the need for economic cooperation, amid the exclusion of an alleged Chinese spy with links to Prince Andrew.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-techie-suicide-case-atul-subhashs-father-pleads-for-grandsons-custody-after-nikitas-arrest-784187">Bengaluru techie suicide case: Atul Subhash's father pleads for grandson's custody after Nikita's arrest</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/15/471332-untitled-design-11.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Atul Subhash's father on Saturday (Dec 15) pleaded for the custody of his grandson, saying that the family was worried about him. The techie's father questioned where was Atul's four-year-old son and appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and others to ensure his grandson's custody.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-oil-tanker-splits-in-half-spilling-thousands-of-tonnes-of-oil-into-kerch-strait-784177">Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/15/471325-eae185566106d18e235ed7da31b32b1f.jpeg?imwidth=400" />

A Russian oil tanker carrying thousands of tonnes of oil products split apart during a heavy storm on Sunday, spilling oil into the Kerch Strait, while another tanker was also in distress after sustaining damage, Russian officials said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahayuti-swearing-in-members-take-oath-in-nagpur-in-presence-of-cm-fadnavis-784170">Maharashtra Cabinet: 39 Mahayuti ministers take oath in Nagpur in presence of CM Fadnavis</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/15/471321-untitled-design-9.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The Mahayuti cabinet was sworn in on Sunday (Dec 15) after a massive victory in the Maharashtra Assembly elections. The swearing ceremony was held in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his deputies, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-polls-aap-announces-final-candidate-list-kejriwal-atishi-to-contest-from-new-delhi-784153">Delhi polls: AAP announces final list of candidates, Kejriwal to contest from New Delhi seat</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/15/471319-untitled-design-1.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday (Dec 15) announced its final list of 38 candidates for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. Former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal will contest from the New Delhi seat, aiming for his fourth term in a row. Chief Minister Atishi has been fielded from Kalkaji, while former health minister Satyendar Jain will contest from Shakur Basti.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-jasprit-bumrah-emulates-wasim-akram-with-record-breaking-five-for-in-gabba-784194">BGT 2024-25: Jasprit Bumrah emulates Wasim Akram with record-breaking five-for in Gabba Test</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/09/470292-mixcollage-09-dec-2024-02-42-pm-5180.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Jasprit Bumrah was the only shining light for India on day 2 (Sunday) of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Gabba in Brisbane against Australia. Bumrah took his second five-for of the series as Australia finished the day on 407/5. With his latest five-for, Bumrah became the first visiting pacer since Pakistan's Wasim Akram in 1990 to take three or more five-for in Australia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jamie-foxx-sufferers-injuries-after-glass-was-thrown-at-him-during-birthday-dinner-784152">Jamie Foxx suffers injuries after glass was thrown at him during birthday dinner</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/04/349376-horizons-2023-05-04t081838241.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Actor Jamie Foxx's birthday celebration took a dramatic turn when someone threw a glass at him. The shocking incident that left the actor injured happened when the actor was enjoying his birthday dinner at Mr Chow&nbsp;restaurant in Beverly Hills, California, on Friday (Dec&nbsp;13).

Israel on Sunday (Dec 15) announced to close its embassy in Dublin, citing the Ireland government's "extreme anti-Israel policies". Meanwhile, South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol has reportedly defied summons from prosecutors investigating him on charges of insurrection as he faces impeachment in the martial law inquiry.

Israel on Sunday (Dec 15) announced to close its embassy in Dublin, citing the Ireland government's "extreme anti-Israel policies". Meanwhile, South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol has reportedly defied summons from prosecutors investigating him on charges of insurrection as he faces impeachment in the martial law inquiry. Click on the headlines to read more Israel to close embassy in Dublin after Ireland backs ICJ genocide petition Israel has announced it will close its embassy in Dublin, citing the Irish government's stance on Israel, particularly its support for a petition at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of genocide. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar made the announcement on Sunday, describing Ireland’s actions as “extreme anti-Israel policies.” South Korea’s Yoon defies summons as prosecutors probe martial law declaration, vows to ‘fight to the end’ South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has reportedly ignored summons from prosecutors investigating him on charges of insurrection as he faces impeachment after imposing martial law. West Asia crisis: Israel strikes Syria overnight, rebel leader warns of 'unwarranted escalation' Israel launched a series of airstrikes on multiple sites in Syria overnight, despite the Syrian rebel leader, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, saying that his group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has no interest in engaging in conflict with Israel. 'Complex relations with China,' says UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper amid Prince Andrew spy row British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper admitted that the UK government has a "complex arrangement" with China because of the need for economic cooperation, amid the exclusion of an alleged Chinese spy with links to Prince Andrew. Bengaluru techie suicide case: Atul Subhash's father pleads for grandson's custody after Nikita's arrest Atul Subhash's father on Saturday (Dec 15) pleaded for the custody of his grandson, saying that the family was worried about him. The techie's father questioned where was Atul's four-year-old son and appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and others to ensure his grandson's custody. Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait A Russian oil tanker carrying thousands of tonnes of oil products split apart during a heavy storm on Sunday, spilling oil into the Kerch Strait, while another tanker was also in distress after sustaining damage, Russian officials said. Maharashtra Cabinet: 39 Mahayuti ministers take oath in Nagpur in presence of CM Fadnavis The Mahayuti cabinet was sworn in on Sunday (Dec 15) after a massive victory in the Maharashtra Assembly elections. The swearing ceremony was held in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his deputies, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar. Delhi polls: AAP announces final list of candidates, Kejriwal to contest from New Delhi seat The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday (Dec 15) announced its final list of 38 candidates for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. Former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal will contest from the New Delhi seat, aiming for his fourth term in a row. Chief Minister Atishi has been fielded from Kalkaji, while former health minister Satyendar Jain will contest from Shakur Basti. BGT 2024-25: Jasprit Bumrah emulates Wasim Akram with record-breaking five-for in Gabba Test Jasprit Bumrah was the only shining light for India on day 2 (Sunday) of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Gabba in Brisbane against Australia. Bumrah took his second five-for of the series as Australia finished the day on 407/5. With his latest five-for, Bumrah became the first visiting pacer since Pakistan's Wasim Akram in 1990 to take three or more five-for in Australia. Jamie Foxx suffers injuries after glass was thrown at him during birthday dinner Actor Jamie Foxx's birthday celebration took a dramatic turn when someone threw a glass at him. The shocking incident that left the actor injured happened when the actor was enjoying his birthday dinner at Mr Chow restaurant in Beverly Hills, California, on Friday (Dec 13).

Israel has announced it will close its embassy in Dublin, citing the Irish government's stance on Israel, particularly its support for a petition at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of genocide.

Israel has announced it will close its embassy in Dublin, citing the Irish government's stance on Israel, particularly its support for a petition at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of genocide. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar made the announcement on Sunday, describing Ireland’s actions as “extreme anti-Israel policies.” Ireland’s support for ICJ petition The embassy closure follows Ireland's decision to join a petition at the ICJ in The Hague, accusing Israel of genocide related to its actions in the Palestinian territories. Israel has stated that this, along with Ireland’s previous recognition of a Palestinian state, has led to a significant breakdown in relations. In a statement, Sa'ar said, "The actions and antisemitic rhetoric used by Ireland against Israel are rooted in the de-legitimisation and demonisation of the Jewish state, along with double standards. Ireland has crossed every red line in its relations with Israel." Statement by the Tánaiste The Tánaiste expressed regret over Israel's decision to close its Dublin embassy, emphasizing the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels. "Ireland’s stance on the Middle East conflict is rooted in international law and humanitarian principles. We condemned the Hamas attacks on Israel on 7 October 2023 and have equally called out Israel's military operations in Gaza, which constitute collective punishment, violate international law, and cause unacceptable civilian suffering." He stressed that Ireland is still calling for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and more humanitarian aid to Gaza. He also confirmed that Ireland will keep its embassy in Israel to continue diplomatic work. Ireland rejects the accusations Ireland has strongly rejected Israel’s claims. Prime Minister Simon Harris expressed his regret over the Israeli decision to close the embassy. “I utterly reject the assertion that Ireland is anti-Israel,” Harris said in a statement, underscoring that Ireland continues to seek a balanced approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict. 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.

In a significant development in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, Hamas has reportedly agreed to allow Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to remain in the Gaza Strip. This agreement marks a shift in the conflict dynamics, as both sides continue their military operations. The decision comes amid intense fighting, with both Israel and Hamas engaged in strategic moves. The IDF’s presence in Gaza could impact future military strategies and the broader regional stability, as tensions remain high between the two parties.

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas Agreed To IDF Forces Staying On In The Gaza Strip

In a significant development in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, Hamas has reportedly agreed to allow Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to remain in the Gaza Strip. This agreement marks a shift in the conflict dynamics, as both sides continue their military operations. The decision comes amid intense fighting, with both Israel and Hamas engaged in strategic moves. The IDF’s presence in Gaza could impact future military strategies and the broader regional stability, as tensions remain high between the two parties.



In a dramatic escalation, Israel launched 60 airstrikes on Syria in under four hours, marking a significant increase in military action between the two nations. The strikes targeted various sites, including military positions and weapons depots. This surge in Israeli airstrikes comes amid growing tensions in the region, with both countries on edge over strategic and security concerns. The rapid response highlights Israel's military capabilities and its determination to defend its interests in the volatile Middle East.

Israel-Syria: 60 Israeli Strikes On Syria In Less Than Four Hours

In a dramatic escalation, Israel launched 60 airstrikes on Syria in under four hours, marking a significant increase in military action between the two nations. The strikes targeted various sites, including military positions and weapons depots. This surge in Israeli airstrikes comes amid growing tensions in the region, with both countries on edge over strategic and security concerns. The rapid response highlights Israel's military capabilities and its determination to defend its interests in the volatile Middle East.



Beirut, Lebanon
<meta content="uuid7Qa99TCPm3m4" name="uuid"/>
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem said on Saturday that Syria's new rulers, who ousted the Lebanese armed group's ally, Bashar al-Assad, should not establish ties with neighbouring Israel.
"We hope that this new party in power will see Israel as an enemy and not normalise relations with it," Qassem said in a televised speech, his first public remarks since Islamist-led rebels toppled Assad, who had Hezbollah's military support during the civil war that began after a 2011 crackdown on anti-government protests.
The rebel forces launched their offensive on November 27, the same day that a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect. On Sunday, they declared Damascus had fallen, with Assad having fled the country.
Iran-backed Hezbollah has suffered major blows during more than a year of cross-border fighting with Israel, which the Lebanese group had initiated over the Gaza war.
In late September, the clashes rapidly escalated into full-blown war.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-has-refused-to-provide-names-of-hostages-its-holding-bidens-advisor-783995" target="_blank">Hamas refused to provide names of hostages it's holding: Biden's advisor</a>
In his speech on Saturday, Qassem maintained that the ceasefire agreement does not mean Hezbollah is required to lay down its weapons.
The deal stipulates that over 60 days, the Lebanese army and UN peacekeepers would deploy in southern Lebanon. At the same time, Israeli military forces as well as Hezbollah militants withdraw from the border area -- Hezbollah to the north, and Israeli troops back to their country.
Hezbollah was the only Lebanese armed group that refused to surrender its weapons after Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war, vowing to keep fighting Israel.
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.

"We hope that this new party in power will see Israel as an enemy and not normalise relations with it," Qassem said in a televised speech, his first public remarks since Islamist-led rebels toppled Assad, who had Hezbollah's military support during the civil war that began after a 2011 crackdown on anti-government protests.



Beirut, Lebanon Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem said on Saturday that Syria's new rulers, who ousted the Lebanese armed group's ally, Bashar al-Assad, should not establish ties with neighbouring Israel. "We hope that this new party in power will see Israel as an enemy and not normalise relations with it," Qassem said in a televised speech, his first public remarks since Islamist-led rebels toppled Assad, who had Hezbollah's military support during the civil war that began after a 2011 crackdown on anti-government protests. The rebel forces launched their offensive on November 27, the same day that a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect. On Sunday, they declared Damascus had fallen, with Assad having fled the country. Iran-backed Hezbollah has suffered major blows during more than a year of cross-border fighting with Israel, which the Lebanese group had initiated over the Gaza war. In late September, the clashes rapidly escalated into full-blown war. Also read: Hamas refused to provide names of hostages it's holding: Biden's advisor In his speech on Saturday, Qassem maintained that the ceasefire agreement does not mean Hezbollah is required to lay down its weapons. The deal stipulates that over 60 days, the Lebanese army and UN peacekeepers would deploy in southern Lebanon. At the same time, Israeli military forces as well as Hezbollah militants withdraw from the border area -- Hezbollah to the north, and Israeli troops back to their country. Hezbollah was the only Lebanese armed group that refused to surrender its weapons after Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war, vowing to keep fighting Israel. 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

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