UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday alleged violations of international law in Gaza and urged an immediate ceasefire as Israel pounds the Palestinian territory in response to Hamas attacks, with the crisis deeply dividing the Security Council.

Israeli envoy expresses concerns on UN Chief's remarks on Israel-Palestine war, demands resignation

The Joe Biden administration in the United States is preparing for the possibility of carrying out a mass evacuation of hundreds of thousands of American citizens from the Middle East if the ongoing conflict in Gaza isn't contained, the Washington Post reported citing officials.

Israel-Palestine war: How far will US go to defend Israel?

Palestinian officials claim that over the course of Israeli airstrikes on Gaza overnight, approximately 700 Palestinians lost their lives. This is the biggest number of deaths in a single day since Israel started attacking the beleaguered enclave earlier this month.

Israel-Palestine war: Israel defence forces intensifies bombing on south Gaza

The latest war in the Middle East triggered by the Hamas Islamist group has seen a massive retaliation by Israel. Israeli air strikes have taken out many Hamas commanders and pounded their targets. It also boasted of an air, ground, and sea invasion of Gaza. But, the country has so far not started&nbsp;a full-fledged ground invasion.

Given Israel's military might, why is the country shying away from taking this move?

As per an AFP report that quoted experts, there are a multitude of factors at play, including global pressure, divisions between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), and rising concerns for the safety of people held captive by the Hamas militant group.&nbsp;

Israeli journalist Nahum Barnea in a daily Yedioth Ahronoth pointed at the ongoing friction between Netanyahu and IDF and attributed this to the cautious moves made by Israel and its decision to put the Gaza ground invasion on a back burner.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-considering-inundating-hamas-underground-tunnels-before-ground-invasion-report-651029">Israel considering inundating Hamas’ underground tunnels before ground invasion: Report</a>

"There's a crisis of confidence between (Israeli Prime Minister) Benjamin Netanyahu and the IDF (army)," Barnea wrote, adding, "The government is having difficulties taking decisions that everyone agrees on about the top issues."&nbsp;

<h2>Does Netanyahu blame IDF generals for Oct 7 Hamas attack?&nbsp;</h2>

Israel's much-touted Iron Dome missile system failed to protect innocent Israelis after about 5,000 surprise air strikes by Hamas. Barnea, while citing government and military sources in the report, said, "Netanyahu is angry at the generals and blames them for what happened."&nbsp;

Another Israeli journalist Amos Harel in Haaretz Daily wrote, "Disputes over these operations are creating tensions, especially between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant."&nbsp;

What is noteworthy is that this political-military divide does not play out in public. In public appearances and official statements, Netanyahu and IDF leadership seem to be in consonance with each other.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-kicked-out-of-israeli-textbooks-after-stand-with-gaza-row-651005">Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row</a>

It was reflected in a communique on Tuesday (Oct 24) from the Israeli government. "The prime minister, the defence minister and the IDF chief of staff are working in close and full cooperation, around the clock, to lead the State of Israel to a decisive victory over Hamas," the communique read.&nbsp;

"There is total and mutual trust between the prime minister, the defence minister and the IDF chief of staff; the unity of the goal is clear," it added. So is this a tacit agreement between Netanyahu and IDF to put up a good face for the world?&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Complex situation in Gaza Strip&nbsp;</h2>

While&nbsp;Hamas continues to hold captive many Israelis and foreign nationals, the situation remains complex and any reckless move by Israel could lead to further deterioration of the situation.

Gunmen who made an incursion into Israel took over 200 people hostages, including foreign nationals, and hence the situation remains sensitive.&nbsp;

Patrick Bettane, an intelligence specialist at Israel's International Institute for Counter-Terrorism (ICT) think tank, explained that as far as a ground offensive is concerned there remains a "disagreement".

"But the fact that there are hostages being held in the Gaza Strip complicates everything," he reportedly said, adding, "Israel is waiting to see how this problem can be resolved before it acts."

Akiva Eldar, an expert on Israeli politics, reportedly said that "after the emotions (were) aroused by this terrible massacre, Bibi (Netanyahu) and the generals are starting to think differently".

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-hope-rises-among-kin-of-hostages-649904">Israel-Palestine war: Hope rises among kin of hostages</a>

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There is international pressure at play as well, especially with the hostage situation.

Many nations including the US, China and Australia have made their military presence felt in the Middle East due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;

Army chief Herzi Halevi asserted, "We are well prepared for the ground operations in the south." There have been calls by the Israeli PM to fully root out the Hamas Islamist group.

Israel also warned the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, with Israeli army spokesman Jonathan Conricus saying, "Hezbollah... is dragging Lebanon into a war that it will gain nothing from, but stands to lose a lot."&nbsp;

"We will strike it with a force it cannot even imagine, and the significance for it and the state of Lebanon will be devastating," warned Netanyahu.&nbsp;

Political analyst Daniel Bensimon said, "Disagreement or not, it's a fact that Americans and the Europeans are coming to Israel to caress it with honeyed words with the aim of preventing a ground offensive."&nbsp;

"The international community fears a ground operation would spark a chain reaction that could engulf the whole region, and maybe even further afield," he said, adding, "But in the end, they want to stop Israel from going into Gaza and prevent Iran from becoming involved through the Shiite Hezbollah movement, its proxy in Lebanon."&nbsp;

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The latest war in the Middle East triggered by the Hamas Islamist group has seen a massive retaliation by Israel. Israeli air strikes have taken out many Hamas commanders and pounded their targets.

The latest war in the Middle East triggered by the Hamas Islamist group has seen a massive retaliation by Israel. Israeli air strikes have taken out many Hamas commanders and pounded their targets. It also boasted of an air, ground, and sea invasion of Gaza. But, the country has so far not started a full-fledged ground invasion. Given Israel's military might, why is the country shying away from taking this move? As per an AFP report that quoted experts, there are a multitude of factors at play, including global pressure, divisions between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), and rising concerns for the safety of people held captive by the Hamas militant group. Israeli journalist Nahum Barnea in a daily Yedioth Ahronoth pointed at the ongoing friction between Netanyahu and IDF and attributed this to the cautious moves made by Israel and its decision to put the Gaza ground invasion on a back burner. Also Read | Israel considering inundating Hamas’ underground tunnels before ground invasion: Report "There's a crisis of confidence between (Israeli Prime Minister) Benjamin Netanyahu and the IDF (army)," Barnea wrote, adding, "The government is having difficulties taking decisions that everyone agrees on about the top issues." Does Netanyahu blame IDF generals for Oct 7 Hamas attack? Israel's much-touted Iron Dome missile system failed to protect innocent Israelis after about 5,000 surprise air strikes by Hamas. Barnea, while citing government and military sources in the report, said, "Netanyahu is angry at the generals and blames them for what happened." Another Israeli journalist Amos Harel in Haaretz Daily wrote, "Disputes over these operations are creating tensions, especially between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant." What is noteworthy is that this political-military divide does not play out in public. In public appearances and official statements, Netanyahu and IDF leadership seem to be in consonance with each other. Also Read | Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row It was reflected in a communique on Tuesday (Oct 24) from the Israeli government. "The prime minister, the defence minister and the IDF chief of staff are working in close and full cooperation, around the clock, to lead the State of Israel to a decisive victory over Hamas," the communique read. "There is total and mutual trust between the prime minister, the defence minister and the IDF chief of staff; the unity of the goal is clear," it added. So is this a tacit agreement between Netanyahu and IDF to put up a good face for the world? Complex situation in Gaza Strip While Hamas continues to hold captive many Israelis and foreign nationals, the situation remains complex and any reckless move by Israel could lead to further deterioration of the situation. Gunmen who made an incursion into Israel took over 200 people hostages, including foreign nationals, and hence the situation remains sensitive. Patrick Bettane, an intelligence specialist at Israel's International Institute for Counter-Terrorism (ICT) think tank, explained that as far as a ground offensive is concerned there remains a "disagreement". "But the fact that there are hostages being held in the Gaza Strip complicates everything," he reportedly said, adding, "Israel is waiting to see how this problem can be resolved before it acts." Akiva Eldar, an expert on Israeli politics, reportedly said that "after the emotions (were) aroused by this terrible massacre, Bibi (Netanyahu) and the generals are starting to think differently". Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Hope rises among kin of hostages × There is international pressure at play as well, especially with the hostage situation. Many nations including the US, China and Australia have made their military presence felt in the Middle East due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Army chief Herzi Halevi asserted, "We are well prepared for the ground operations in the south." There have been calls by the Israeli PM to fully root out the Hamas Islamist group. Israel also warned the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, with Israeli army spokesman Jonathan Conricus saying, "Hezbollah... is dragging Lebanon into a war that it will gain nothing from, but stands to lose a lot." "We will strike it with a force it cannot even imagine, and the significance for it and the state of Lebanon will be devastating," warned Netanyahu. Political analyst Daniel Bensimon said, "Disagreement or not, it's a fact that Americans and the Europeans are coming to Israel to caress it with honeyed words with the aim of preventing a ground offensive." "The international community fears a ground operation would spark a chain reaction that could engulf the whole region, and maybe even further afield," he said, adding, "But in the end, they want to stop Israel from going into Gaza and prevent Iran from becoming involved through the Shiite Hezbollah movement, its proxy in Lebanon." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Explained: Why is Israel putting Gaza's ground invasion on the back-burner?

Israel-Palestine war: Israel demands UN chief, Antonio Guterres resignation

As a war between Israel and the Hamas militant group escalates, Israel's Defense Forces are now preparing for a ground offensive in Gaza. Israel is poised to launch an attack into the northern half of the Gaza Strip. It is an attack that is filled with uncertainty and whose potential humanitarian consequences are grim as Israel vows to destroy and eliminate Hamas completely.

Israel-Palestine war: Israel plans to flood underground tunnels where hostages may be held

Approximately 15,000 Israelis have responded to the call to action that evolved over night from activists against the government's controversial plans for judicial reform to organizers of an extensive network to assist and rescue fellow citizens in need. Three thousand people were later evacuated from the Gaza border communities, 200 of whom were under fire, thanks to this infrastructure, which has been stationed at the Expo Tel Aviv International Convention Center since the day following the atrocities.

Israel-Palestine war: Half a million Israeli displace | WION Ground report

Israel-Palestine war: Survivors find solace in Tel Aviv as volunteers help displaced Israelis

Rocket warning sirens sounded in Israel’s Tel Aviv on Tuesday (October 24) as fighting between Israel and Hamas continued, 17 days after the start of the conflict.

Israel-Palestine war: Sirens warn of incoming rockets in Israeli cities from Hamas

The government of Israel has warned the people living in the north of Gaza to move to the south or risk being seen as ‘terrorists’. Since Sunni Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007 the Middle East has been sitting on a political volcano.

For decades they have been brainwashing and preparing populations they hold politically ransom for one agenda: the annihilation of the state of Israel and the genocide of the Jewish population.

What the world witnessed on October 7, 2023, was conducted as a surprise attack. The question, however, is why Hamas chose the month of October when Israel was celebrating the 50th anniversary of their victory in the Yom Kippur War (October 6-25); the fourth Arab-Israel war of 1973.

Why was such a brutal attack conducted against Israel when it was breaking peace deals in the Middle East left, right and centre?

It was former US President Jimmy Carter who managed to broker a peace agreement titled ‘Framework for Peace in the Middle East’ known as the Camp David Accord between Egypt, and Israel on September 17, 1978.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/hamas-israel-war-rare-dissent-over-us-arms-for-israel-raises-troubling-questions-650540">Opinion | Hamas-Israel war: Rare dissent over US arms for Israel raises troubling questions</a>

On October 26, 1993, Israel accomplished a peace deal with Jordan and signed the ‘Jordan-Israel peace Treaty’ thereby extending peace to a second Arab country.

Any further breakthrough would have to wait until 2020 before Israel could agree for another Arab country to join Israel’s enterprise to establish peace in the region. This time it was the Persian Gulf nation of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that signed the ‘Abraham Accord’.

Another Arab nation, Bahrain, followed the UAE by signing a peace deal with Israel, which then led to the normalisation of relations between Morocco and Israel.

By February 2023 Sudan also had made peace with Israel by officially founding diplomatic relations with the State of Israel.

In recent months, expectations that Saudi Arabia and Israel were at the ‘cusp’ of making a peace deal and establishing full diplomatic relations began to show signs of a possible diplomatic paradigm shift in Middle East politics.

The bottom line is that if Saudi Arabia establishes full trade and diplomatic relations with the State of Israel then many Sunni Muslim states are bound to follow suit.

In a speech delivered to the United Nations General Assembly on September 22, 2023, the prime minister of Israel Benyamin Netanyahu said the following, “I believe that we are at the cusp of an even more dramatic breakthrough: a historic peace with Saudi Arabia.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-assault-may-have-destroyed-deep-rooted-beliefs-about-israel-and-palestinians-650579">Opinion | Hamas assault may have destroyed deep-rooted beliefs about Israel and Palestinians</a>

But then there is another aspect that needs our attention while considering the purpose of Hamas’s genocidal attack on October 7.

The G-20 (September 2023) summit held in New Delhi India witnessed Saudi Arabia and Israel joining hands with India in an endeavour to establish the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) connecting Asia, the Middle East and Europe thereby creating a new economic passage.

Since its inception on May 14, 1948, the State of Israel has set itself the primary goal to bring peace in a post-colonial, poor and war-torn Middle East.

Therefore, it is safe to conclude that the surprise attack conducted on October 7 on the sovereign State of Israel by Hamas has nothing to do with the desire to establish a Palestinian state alongside Israel but everything to do with sabotaging the efforts to bring peace and prosperity to the region.

Who is benefiting from the violence of Hamas? What purpose does war in the Middle East and West Asia serve?

Firstly, it serves the purpose of bringing peace efforts between Israel and Saudi Arabia to an abrupt halt.

Secondly, it benefits China. The IMEC is now in jeopardy leaving the Middle East vulnerable to the Chinese economic expansionist project called the Belt and Road Initiative.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-holocaust-survivors-struggle-with-israel-war-650967">Israel-Palestine War: Holocaust survivors struggle with Israel war</a>

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The ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ (BRI) of China which is a maritime Silk Road project connecting China, Southeast Asia, Africa and Europe is in actuality designed to trick poor Asian, African and Middle Eastern countries into the Chinese debt trap and usurping their ports and strategic locations with the sole purpose of hegemonising trade routes.

An alternate shipping route will be created if IMEC is established connecting Mumbai and Gujarat with UAE while a rail network will connect UAE, Saudi Arabia and Jordan with the port of Haifa in Israel therefore reaching the shores of the Mediterranean sea and from there onward to Europe.

Turkey was the first country to oppose this ambitious plan. Why?

Because, Erdogan proposes an alternate route called the ‘Iraq Development Project’ that would connect the Persian Gulf with Europe through a network of railways, highways, and via ports in the UAE, Qatar, and Iraq.

Another Persian Gulf country that is hybrid in its opposition to IMEC is Iran. It is proposing an economic connectivity route for countries bordering the Caspian Sea.

On October 6, during the Second Caspian Sea Forum held in Moscow, Iranian first vice president Mohammed Mokhber came up with the idea of a ‘Green Corridor’ with simplified customs procedures.

Another country with an empire-building desire is Russia. Its government proposes that Russia, Iran, and Azerbaijan work on a joint project that would use the Caspian Sea as a trading outpost for markets in Europe and beyond. This economic corridor would include Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan, which are oil and gas-rich countries.

2008 saw the period of economic growth, credited to the age of globalisation, coming to an abrupt end. The reorganisation of markets in a post-globalisation era led to protectionism.

After undergoing a painful post-2008 protectionist economic period now we have a world that is once again trying to evolve toward a free, open, and integrated global economy by strengthening regional trade alliances for which expansion of spheres of political influence is crucial.

Today, the reorganisation of new economic alliances is manifesting itself through regional wars, be it Ukraine or the Middle East. These conflicts are in fact the birth pangs of a new world order that has yet to be born.

The main challenge, we as global citizens face, is how to make the transition from (national) protectionism towards regional and finally global economic integration, a peaceful process.

One thing seems to be certain.

In order to make the world a better place, evil regimes such as the one harbouring in Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China and their proxies such as Hamas, Hezbollah, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Hizb-ul-Mujahideen, and various others need to be brought down.

As Hamas revealed its evil intentions against innocent civilians in the cities and towns of Ofakim, Sderot, Yad Mordechai, Kfar Aza, Yated and Kissufim killing hundreds of innocent civilians including women and children, burning them alive, beheading them as well as taking 200 of Israeli men and women and foreign nationals hostage, the world cannot remain a silent spectator.

The time has come when once and for all the menace of Islamic Jihadi terrorism has to be flushed out of Gaza and the rest of the Middle East. And that is the sole purpose of Israeli defence forces’ decision to launch a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip.

In order to have minimum civilian causalities Israel is asking the population of northern Gaza to move to the southern part. If Hamas does not allow this to happen and uses the civilian population as human shields it will only add to the gruesome war crimes Hamas has been inflicting upon the people of both Israel and Gaza.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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The government of Israel has warned the people living in the north of Gaza to move to the south or risk being seen as ‘terrorists’. Since Sunni Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007 the Middle East has been sitting on a political volcano.

The government of Israel has warned the people living in the north of Gaza to move to the south or risk being seen as ‘terrorists’. Since Sunni Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007 the Middle East has been sitting on a political volcano. For decades they have been brainwashing and preparing populations they hold politically ransom for one agenda: the annihilation of the state of Israel and the genocide of the Jewish population. What the world witnessed on October 7, 2023, was conducted as a surprise attack. The question, however, is why Hamas chose the month of October when Israel was celebrating the 50th anniversary of their victory in the Yom Kippur War (October 6-25); the fourth Arab-Israel war of 1973. Why was such a brutal attack conducted against Israel when it was breaking peace deals in the Middle East left, right and centre? It was former US President Jimmy Carter who managed to broker a peace agreement titled ‘Framework for Peace in the Middle East’ known as the Camp David Accord between Egypt, and Israel on September 17, 1978. Also Read | Opinion | Hamas-Israel war: Rare dissent over US arms for Israel raises troubling questions On October 26, 1993, Israel accomplished a peace deal with Jordan and signed the ‘Jordan-Israel peace Treaty’ thereby extending peace to a second Arab country. Any further breakthrough would have to wait until 2020 before Israel could agree for another Arab country to join Israel’s enterprise to establish peace in the region. This time it was the Persian Gulf nation of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that signed the ‘Abraham Accord’. Another Arab nation, Bahrain, followed the UAE by signing a peace deal with Israel, which then led to the normalisation of relations between Morocco and Israel. By February 2023 Sudan also had made peace with Israel by officially founding diplomatic relations with the State of Israel. In recent months, expectations that Saudi Arabia and Israel were at the ‘cusp’ of making a peace deal and establishing full diplomatic relations began to show signs of a possible diplomatic paradigm shift in Middle East politics. The bottom line is that if Saudi Arabia establishes full trade and diplomatic relations with the State of Israel then many Sunni Muslim states are bound to follow suit. In a speech delivered to the United Nations General Assembly on September 22, 2023, the prime minister of Israel Benyamin Netanyahu said the following, “I believe that we are at the cusp of an even more dramatic breakthrough: a historic peace with Saudi Arabia.” Also Read | Opinion | Hamas assault may have destroyed deep-rooted beliefs about Israel and Palestinians But then there is another aspect that needs our attention while considering the purpose of Hamas’s genocidal attack on October 7. The G-20 (September 2023) summit held in New Delhi India witnessed Saudi Arabia and Israel joining hands with India in an endeavour to establish the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) connecting Asia, the Middle East and Europe thereby creating a new economic passage. Since its inception on May 14, 1948, the State of Israel has set itself the primary goal to bring peace in a post-colonial, poor and war-torn Middle East. Therefore, it is safe to conclude that the surprise attack conducted on October 7 on the sovereign State of Israel by Hamas has nothing to do with the desire to establish a Palestinian state alongside Israel but everything to do with sabotaging the efforts to bring peace and prosperity to the region. Who is benefiting from the violence of Hamas? What purpose does war in the Middle East and West Asia serve? Firstly, it serves the purpose of bringing peace efforts between Israel and Saudi Arabia to an abrupt halt. Secondly, it benefits China. The IMEC is now in jeopardy leaving the Middle East vulnerable to the Chinese economic expansionist project called the Belt and Road Initiative. Watch | Israel-Palestine War: Holocaust survivors struggle with Israel war × The ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ (BRI) of China which is a maritime Silk Road project connecting China, Southeast Asia, Africa and Europe is in actuality designed to trick poor Asian, African and Middle Eastern countries into the Chinese debt trap and usurping their ports and strategic locations with the sole purpose of hegemonising trade routes. An alternate shipping route will be created if IMEC is established connecting Mumbai and Gujarat with UAE while a rail network will connect UAE, Saudi Arabia and Jordan with the port of Haifa in Israel therefore reaching the shores of the Mediterranean sea and from there onward to Europe. Turkey was the first country to oppose this ambitious plan. Why? Because, Erdogan proposes an alternate route called the ‘Iraq Development Project’ that would connect the Persian Gulf with Europe through a network of railways, highways, and via ports in the UAE, Qatar, and Iraq. Another Persian Gulf country that is hybrid in its opposition to IMEC is Iran. It is proposing an economic connectivity route for countries bordering the Caspian Sea. On October 6, during the Second Caspian Sea Forum held in Moscow, Iranian first vice president Mohammed Mokhber came up with the idea of a ‘Green Corridor’ with simplified customs procedures. Another country with an empire-building desire is Russia. Its government proposes that Russia, Iran, and Azerbaijan work on a joint project that would use the Caspian Sea as a trading outpost for markets in Europe and beyond. This economic corridor would include Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan, which are oil and gas-rich countries. 2008 saw the period of economic growth, credited to the age of globalisation, coming to an abrupt end. The reorganisation of markets in a post-globalisation era led to protectionism. After undergoing a painful post-2008 protectionist economic period now we have a world that is once again trying to evolve toward a free, open, and integrated global economy by strengthening regional trade alliances for which expansion of spheres of political influence is crucial. Today, the reorganisation of new economic alliances is manifesting itself through regional wars, be it Ukraine or the Middle East. These conflicts are in fact the birth pangs of a new world order that has yet to be born. The main challenge, we as global citizens face, is how to make the transition from (national) protectionism towards regional and finally global economic integration, a peaceful process. One thing seems to be certain. In order to make the world a better place, evil regimes such as the one harbouring in Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China and their proxies such as Hamas, Hezbollah, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Hizb-ul-Mujahideen, and various others need to be brought down. As Hamas revealed its evil intentions against innocent civilians in the cities and towns of Ofakim, Sderot, Yad Mordechai, Kfar Aza, Yated and Kissufim killing hundreds of innocent civilians including women and children, burning them alive, beheading them as well as taking 200 of Israeli men and women and foreign nationals hostage, the world cannot remain a silent spectator. The time has come when once and for all the menace of Islamic Jihadi terrorism has to be flushed out of Gaza and the rest of the Middle East. And that is the sole purpose of Israeli defence forces’ decision to launch a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip. In order to have minimum civilian causalities Israel is asking the population of northern Gaza to move to the southern part. If Hamas does not allow this to happen and uses the civilian population as human shields it will only add to the gruesome war crimes Hamas has been inflicting upon the people of both Israel and Gaza. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Israel gives final warning: Leave or be treated as terrorists

The unexpected terror let loose by Hamas into Israel on October 7 has dealt a blow to long-standing beliefs on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict over the years.

Israelis drew parallels between the attack, which led to approximately 1,400 casualties on their side, primarily among civilians, and the tragic events of September 11, 2001, in the US.&nbsp;

The element of shock and surprise in the assault evoked memories of both 9/11 and the Yom Kippur War of 1973. In that war, Israeli forces found themselves unprepared for an Arab coalition, spearheaded by Egypt and Syria, challenging widely accepted assumptions.

However, the present Israel-Hamas war has shattered a series of long-held assumptions that once underpinned the Israel-Palestine dispute.

<h2>Assumption 1 - Israel is 'bulletproof' and its army unbeatable</h2>

Israel was basking in its own technological glory when the Hamas attacked. The country boasts of the most sophisticated military in the Middle East.&nbsp;Yet, akin to the shock felt in the US after 9/11, a considerably less equipped adversary managed to put together an unforeseen attack.

While Hamas may rely on relatively basic, mostly hand-held weaponry , they did use drones, paragliders and their own intelligence to outfox Israel's supposedly impenetrable border, laden with top-notch surveillance tools.

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Streaks of light seen as Israel's Iron Dome system intercepts rockets launched from Gaza. Photo credit: Reuters

Hamas' ability to keep their mega assault plot under wraps, despite the involvement of hundreds of fighters, dealt a significant blow to Israel's pride in its on-ground human intelligence capabilities in Gaza, led by the reputed agency Mossad.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/hamas-israel-war-rare-dissent-over-us-arms-for-israel-raises-troubling-questions-650540">Also read |&nbsp;Hamas-Israel war: Rare dissent over US arms for Israel raises troubling questions</a>

<h2>Assumption 2: Hamas could be kept in check</h2>

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu long pursued a strategy aimed at dividing Palestinians between the West Bank and Gaza. This involved weakening the Palestinian Authority led by President Mahmoud Abbas, allowing Hamas to maintain control over Gaza, whereas PA was confined to West Bank, the other piece of land which, along with Gaza, constitutes the homeland of Palestinians.&nbsp;

The theory was that, by letting Hamas focus on governance and bolstering the Gaza enclave's living conditions, the group might moderate its stance and avoid major conflicts with Israel.

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Palestinian Hamas militants take part in a rally marking the 31st anniversary of Hamas' founding, in Gaza City. Photo credits: Reuters

In practice, Israel permitted Qatar to financially support Hamas, provided essential resources, and allowed a limited number of Gazans to work in Israel, while maintaining strict controls on population movement in cooperation with Egypt, leading to what many termed "an open-air prison."

<h2>Assumption 3: The US could take a backseat in Middle East relations</h2>

For the longest time,&nbsp; the US&nbsp; has only verbally expressed its commitment to a two-state solution and criticised Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank.

The US has also consistently&nbsp; prioritised matters related to China and the Indo-Pacific region. Similarly, it has also been involved in managing the aftermath of Russia's actions in Ukraine.

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President Biden was greeted by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his arrival in Israel. Photo credit: AFP

Yet, this time around,&nbsp;President Joe Biden had to re-engage with the Middle East by providing unwavering support to Israel and maintaining relations with Arab countries facing threats from Iran and its associated groups.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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The unexpected terror let loose by Hamas into Israel on October 7 has dealt a blow to long-standing beliefs on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict over the years. Israelis drew parallels between the attack, which led to approximately 1,400 casualties on their side, primarily among civilians, and the tragic events of September 11, 2001, in the US.

The unexpected terror let loose by Hamas into Israel on October 7 has dealt a blow to long-standing beliefs on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict over the years. Israelis drew parallels between the attack, which led to approximately 1,400 casualties on their side, primarily among civilians, and the tragic events of September 11, 2001, in the US. The element of shock and surprise in the assault evoked memories of both 9/11 and the Yom Kippur War of 1973. In that war, Israeli forces found themselves unprepared for an Arab coalition, spearheaded by Egypt and Syria, challenging widely accepted assumptions. However, the present Israel-Hamas war has shattered a series of long-held assumptions that once underpinned the Israel-Palestine dispute. Assumption 1 - Israel is 'bulletproof' and its army unbeatable Israel was basking in its own technological glory when the Hamas attacked. The country boasts of the most sophisticated military in the Middle East. Yet, akin to the shock felt in the US after 9/11, a considerably less equipped adversary managed to put together an unforeseen attack. While Hamas may rely on relatively basic, mostly hand-held weaponry , they did use drones, paragliders and their own intelligence to outfox Israel's supposedly impenetrable border, laden with top-notch surveillance tools. Streaks of light seen as Israel's Iron Dome system intercepts rockets launched from Gaza. Photo credit: Reuters Hamas' ability to keep their mega assault plot under wraps, despite the involvement of hundreds of fighters, dealt a significant blow to Israel's pride in its on-ground human intelligence capabilities in Gaza, led by the reputed agency Mossad. Also read | Hamas-Israel war: Rare dissent over US arms for Israel raises troubling questions Assumption 2: Hamas could be kept in check Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu long pursued a strategy aimed at dividing Palestinians between the West Bank and Gaza. This involved weakening the Palestinian Authority led by President Mahmoud Abbas, allowing Hamas to maintain control over Gaza, whereas PA was confined to West Bank, the other piece of land which, along with Gaza, constitutes the homeland of Palestinians. The theory was that, by letting Hamas focus on governance and bolstering the Gaza enclave's living conditions, the group might moderate its stance and avoid major conflicts with Israel. Palestinian Hamas militants take part in a rally marking the 31st anniversary of Hamas' founding, in Gaza City. Photo credits: Reuters In practice, Israel permitted Qatar to financially support Hamas, provided essential resources, and allowed a limited number of Gazans to work in Israel, while maintaining strict controls on population movement in cooperation with Egypt, leading to what many termed "an open-air prison." Assumption 3: The US could take a backseat in Middle East relations For the longest time, the US has only verbally expressed its commitment to a two-state solution and criticised Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank. The US has also consistently prioritised matters related to China and the Indo-Pacific region. Similarly, it has also been involved in managing the aftermath of Russia's actions in Ukraine. President Biden was greeted by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his arrival in Israel. Photo credit: AFP Yet, this time around, President Joe Biden had to re-engage with the Middle East by providing unwavering support to Israel and maintaining relations with Arab countries facing threats from Iran and its associated groups. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hamas assault may have destroyed deep-rooted beliefs about Israel and Palestinians

Violent clashes erupted in the West Bank region which has claimed eight lives. After the Gaza hospital blast, frustration is mounting on the ground among the people. And it is not just directed against Israel, locals are also questioning their own leadership.

Israel-Hamas war: How Hamas is keeping children captive

Israel President Isaac Herzog on Monday claimed that Hamas is preparing chemical weapons, citing documents allegedly recovered from Hamas terrorists who were killed in the October 7 attack on southern Israel.

Israel-Hamas war: What an Israel ground invasion would mean for Gaza?

Many relatives of hostages taken by Hamas are pleading with the government to scale back the war effort and instead negotiate the release of their loved ones as Israel gets ready to attack the Gaza Strip.

Israel-Palestine war | 'Hamas will pay a big price if they harm hostages' says Richard Hecht

Volunteers helped gravediggers working overtime at Israel's main military as burials continued for soldiers slain in an unprecedented mass-infiltration by Palestinian gunmen from the Gaza Strip.

Israel-Palestine War: Israelis volunteer help displaced Israelis

Israel-Palestine war: Bank of Israel on economy and war

Israel is offering cash, safety to Gazans in exchange of information on the hostages. IDF has dropped leaflets into Gaza asking residents to contact the Israeli military through secured channels. Priyanka Sharma brings you the latest.

Gravitas: Israel-Palestine war | Israel asks Gazans to leak information on Hamas hostages

Israel-Palestine war: Iran-backed militia's fighters continue to attack North Israel

US accuses Iran of ‘actively facilitating’ attacks on bases in West Asia. Washington says it will not allow threats to its interests to ‘go unchallenged’ after increase in attacks on its forces in the region. But with current attacks, would a US President really be willing to become embroiled in another war, especially in an election year?

Gravitas: US vows to hold Iran responsible for attacks on troops in West Asia

Former US President Barack Obama stated on Monday that some of Israel's measures in its war against Hamas, such as denying food and water to Gaza, could "harden Palestinian attitudes for generations" and reduce international support for Israel. Obama stated in an uncommon statement on a current foreign policy problem that any Israeli military plan that disregards the human cost of the conflict "could ultimately backfire."

Israel-Palestine war: Some Israeli actions in Gaza can weaken international support: Barack Obama

On Tuesday, French President Emmanuel Macron traveled to Tel Aviv to declare his nation's 'full solidarity' with Israel. Following that incident, Macron was scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to convey France's "complete solidarity" with Israel, according to the French presidency.

Israel-Palestine war: Macron meets PM Netanyahu Isaac Herzog

The Israeli Central Bank has lowered its economic forecasts and maintained its focus on propping up the domestic currency, the shekel, by holding interest rates steady. The research division of the bank of Israel revised its gdp growth forecasts for 2023 and 2024 downward on Monday.

Bank of Israel revises economic forecast downward amid conflict

Amid the Gaza War, Israel has called its reserves to defend their homeland. But there's a mounting question: Where is Prime Minister's son? In the midst of this mobilization, Israeli soldiers are seething with anger. The Prime Minister's 32-year-old son remains absent even as countless soldiers rush back home to fight the war. But why is Yair Netanyahu still in the U.S., far from the frontlines? Here's a report.

Gravitas: Israeli PM's Son Absence Amid Gaza War Mobilization Sparks Outrage

Israeli government spokesman Eylon Levy stated that his nation's goal is to "totally destroy the military and governing capabilities" of Hamas and that military action within the Gaza Strip will occur "at the time of our choosing." The world and the west Asian nation were stunned by the terror attack carried out by Hamas on October 7, in which over 200 Israelis were taken captive and 1400 Israelis died. "We are going to destroy Hamas, we are going to enter the Gaza Strip and totally demolish its military terrorist and governing structure inside the Gaza Strip," Levy declared in an interview with our diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal.

'Will completely destroy Hamas', Israeli govt spokesperson Eylon Levy in a conversation with WION

Israel-Palestine war: France President Macron says, 'Terrorism a common enemy for Israel & France'

Hamas militants killed at least 1,400 people recently - in which most of them were civilians who were shot or burnt to death on the first day of the raid. The militants also took over 200 people hostages.

Israel-Palestine war: Rage spreads among dueling narratives

Israeli aircraft struck a compound beneath a mosque in the occupied West Bank early on Sunday that the military said was being used by militants to organise attacks, and Palestinian medics said at least one person was killed.

Israel-Palestine War: Preparing for unrelenting attacks to dismantle Hamas: Israel military

Two Israeli hostages, Yocheved Lifshitz, 85, and Nurit Cooper, 79, were freed by Hamas. According to Hamas' armed branch, the ladies were freed for "compelling humanitarian" grounds. The two hostages' liberation was confirmed by the ICRC.

Israel-Hamas: Four hostages released by Hamas so far; Can Israel manage to release hostages?

In the area to encourage peace negotiations and press for a ceasefire is China's special envoy on Middle East affairs. The likelihood of a protracted ground battle in Gaza is "significantly rising," Zhai Jun continues. According to Zhai, China will keep pushing for a two-state solution and provide the Palestinians with necessary humanitarian help via the UN and bilateral channels. Despite its desire to project an image of neutrality as a mediator, China has significant economic interests in the Middle East, particularly with regard to access to gas and oil. China has not denounced Hamas for its horrific act of terrorism against Israel.

Israel-Hamas war: China's Middle East envoy pitches for peace

President Joe Biden declared that until all of the hostages taken by Hamas are freed, he will not support an Israel-Hamas ceasefire. When questioned about the possibility of a ceasefire in exchange for Hamas releasing some 200 prisoners, including Americans, said to be in the Gaza Strip, Biden told reporters, "We should have those hostages released and then we can talk."

Israel-Palestine war: Israel continues ground offensive as US urges it to slowdown

A German diplomat who previously served as the European Union envoy to Gaza is being slammed by people who claim that a clip of him paragliding over Gaza in July inspired Hamas to carry out similar attacks against Israel.

In July, Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff was filmed conducting “the first Gaza paragliding flight in history” as he soared over Gaza’s coast while shouting, “Free Palestine!”

The then EU envoy had told Palestinians in the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/OhsokI3wUwY">clip</a> that once they are free, “You can do exactly the same thing.”

<h2>Video goes viral&nbsp;</h2>

The video went viral around two days ago, following the Isael-Hamas war, as it reminded many of the October 7 assault when the militants first began their coordinated attack by paragliding into a music festival in Israel.

Hundreds of people were killed when militants opened fire on the festival-goers, with many taken hostage in Gaza.

But what riled up many was when von Burgsdorff in a recent radio interview, criticised Israel for what he said was an "unjustified" attack on Gaza in response to the Hamas attack. The remarks prompted netizens to dig out his old video to claim that his&nbsp;recreational stunt inspired Hamas to launch the terrorist attack.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thank you Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff for introducing Gazans to paragliding! Job well done, really! 
I know you meant well but the road to hell is paved with good intentions. And hell it was for many people thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HamasTerrorists?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HamasTerrorists</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreeGazaFromHamas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreeGazaFromHamas</a> <a href="https://t.co/WcrGv1Srky">pic.twitter.com/WcrGv1Srky</a>
— Benny, #MTBing in Israel (@omadawnx) <a href="https://twitter.com/omadawnx/status/1716172406031634725?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Envoy slams Israel&nbsp;</h2>

“It cannot be that Israel has carte blanche because terrible acts, cruel and shocking acts happened to 1,000 or even 1,200 Israelis,” von Burgsdorff said during a recent radio interview.

“This is not the excuse you can use to flatten Gaza,” he added, the New York Post reported.

“It cannot be that Israel is threatening to bomb corridors and shipments carrying humanitarian equipment. It cannot be. It is another war crime if it happens,” he said.

The remarks were criticised by Israel’s foreign ministry calling the show “provocative” propaganda that only served to bolster Hamas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ground-offensive-in-gaza-at-the-time-of-our-choosing-says-israel-govt-spokesperson-eylon-levy-650423">Ground offensive in Gaza at the time of our choosing, says Israel govt spokesperson&nbsp;Eylon Levy</a>

“The European diplomat forgot a long time ago that he represents the European Union and its member states,” the ministry said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-israel-bombed-syrian-airports-in-the-thick-of-its-ongoing-war-with-hamas-650322">Explained | Why did Israel bomb Syrian airports in the thick of its ongoing war with Hamas?</a>

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Israel’s ongoing war with Hamas as an existential battle against the “forces of darkness".

He equated the fight against Hamas to a struggle between the “forces of light” representing humanity and the “forces of darkness” embodying animalism, The Times of Israel reported. He emphasised that the main objective was to secure victory over Hamas.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A German diplomat who previously served as the European Union envoy to Gaza is being slammed by people who claim that a clip of him paragliding over Gaza in July inspired Hamas to carry out similar attacks against Israel.

A German diplomat who previously served as the European Union envoy to Gaza is being slammed by people who claim that a clip of him paragliding over Gaza in July inspired Hamas to carry out similar attacks against Israel. In July, Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff was filmed conducting “the first Gaza paragliding flight in history” as he soared over Gaza’s coast while shouting, “Free Palestine!” The then EU envoy had told Palestinians in the clip that once they are free, “You can do exactly the same thing.” Video goes viral The video went viral around two days ago, following the Isael-Hamas war, as it reminded many of the October 7 assault when the militants first began their coordinated attack by paragliding into a music festival in Israel. Hundreds of people were killed when militants opened fire on the festival-goers, with many taken hostage in Gaza. But what riled up many was when von Burgsdorff in a recent radio interview, criticised Israel for what he said was an "unjustified" attack on Gaza in response to the Hamas attack. The remarks prompted netizens to dig out his old video to claim that his recreational stunt inspired Hamas to launch the terrorist attack. Thank you Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff for introducing Gazans to paragliding! Job well done, really! I know you meant well but the road to hell is paved with good intentions. And hell it was for many people thanks to #HamasTerrorists #FreeGazaFromHamas pic.twitter.com/WcrGv1Srky — Benny, #MTBing in Israel (@omadawnx) October 22, 2023 × Envoy slams Israel “It cannot be that Israel has carte blanche because terrible acts, cruel and shocking acts happened to 1,000 or even 1,200 Israelis,” von Burgsdorff said during a recent radio interview. “This is not the excuse you can use to flatten Gaza,” he added, the New York Post reported. “It cannot be that Israel is threatening to bomb corridors and shipments carrying humanitarian equipment. It cannot be. It is another war crime if it happens,” he said. The remarks were criticised by Israel’s foreign ministry calling the show “provocative” propaganda that only served to bolster Hamas. Also read | Ground offensive in Gaza at the time of our choosing, says Israel govt spokesperson Eylon Levy “The European diplomat forgot a long time ago that he represents the European Union and its member states,” the ministry said in a statement. Also read | Explained | Why did Israel bomb Syrian airports in the thick of its ongoing war with Hamas? Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Israel’s ongoing war with Hamas as an existential battle against the “forces of darkness". He equated the fight against Hamas to a struggle between the “forces of light” representing humanity and the “forces of darkness” embodying animalism, The Times of Israel reported. He emphasised that the main objective was to secure victory over Hamas. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

German diplomat slammed for ‘inspiring’ Hamas to launch paragliding-style attack against Israel

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