Israel launches operation to destroy Hezbollah attack tunnels

"Shortly before dawn, Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake... 
when the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified 
'it's a ghost' they said, and cried out in fear... 
but Jesus immediately told them: 'take courage, it is I. Don't be afraid'."

It is a passage from the Holy Bible, Matthew 14:22-36. It tells the story of one of Jesus's most famous miracles.

Some 2,000 years ago, Jesus walked across the Sea of Galilee - the water body between Israel and the occupied Golan heights - according to the Bible. Today, that doesn't require a miracle.

The Sea of Galilee, one of the holiest places in Christianity, is Israel's largest freshwater reserve. But long periods of drought and over-pumping have brought the lake low. A reedy island has materialised at its southern edge, and will soon be a peninsula. Holiday-makers and fishermen teeter over expanding boggy beaches to reach the waterline.

"Because last years we did not have enough rain and also we have a big exploitation water, the water is going slowly down, down, down and we don't know where it will stop," said Meir Sternberg, a local.

<img alt="galilee" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a95813a7-23c8-43d7-aa25-98bb0886324c" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/sea-of-galilee-rocks-reuters.jpg" />

Rocks are seen above the low-water level of the Sea of Galilee. (Reuters)

The Sea of Galilee was last full in 2004. Today, its shores are six metres wider, just two centimetres from the lowest level ever recorded. If the lake shrinks too much, its water would become saltier and negatively affect animals and plants relying on it.

It is a largely man-made disaster. Drought and overpumping have hit the Sea of Galilee hard.

Israel sees a solution in desalination, in which it is a world leader. It plans to double the amount of Mediterranean seawater it processes and pipe half of it 75 kilometers (47 miles) to the Sea of Galilee.

"(We) are doing it in order to save our nature, to fight global warming, I mean to prevent the effect, the devastating effect of global warming on the Sea of Galilee and also to create a very significant water storage for the entire state of Israel for time of emergencies," said Yuval Steinitz, Israeli energy and water minister.

"If he (Jesus) is coming back, we will make sure that he will have to make a real effort to walk on the water once more," Steinitz joked.

The project requires an investment of more than $600 million.

The problem is larger than Israel - all the fresh water reserves in the region are currently at a 100-year lows.

Finding a common solution is imperative.

<img alt="island-galilee" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a8714b9-2b83-495c-acff-6f1edd528483" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/sea-of-galilee-island.jpg" />

Man walks towards an island that has materialised at the southern edge of the Sea of Galilee. (Reuters)

The Sea of Galilee is not isolated, it is part of a water basin comprising the Jordan River and the Dead Sea, too. If it shrinks, everything else shrinks faster.

"We need this water, not only for us but also for the Jordanians, because they are in a very very tough conditions now from the water problems point of view," said Giora Shaham, Israel's Water Authority Director.

Until now, desalination and water recycling have been enough to keep the situation under control.

But as Israel enters the sixth year of drought and temperatures keep rising, new efforts are required. Israel's meteorological data shows that the country has become warmer by two degree celsius since the 1980s. When it rains, it rains too little, and the dry and cracked land finds it difficult to absorb rainfall.

Preserving the lake would free Israel to offer Jordan more water under a 1994 peace treaty.

"If there is irreversible damage done to the Sea of Galilee, to the Jordan, to this whole ecosystem, Israel's enemies could use it against her," said David Parsons, vice president of the International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem, which oversees evangelical outreach to Israel.

"It could also affect Christian tourism to the land. It's very good to see Israel taking responsible steps now to address this, finally."

<img alt="sea-of-galilee" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fff09637-35c7-4d1b-86cc-e197a2bccf7a" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/sea-of-galelee-shells-reuters.jpg" />

Mussels and shells are seen on the ground at a shore of the Sea of Galilee in northern Israel. (Reuters)

Israel's plan provides for piping in 120 million cubic metres annually. Steinitz hopes to see that almost tripled in a cabinet vote next month. Such capacity, he said, would replenish the Galilee by 2026.

He predicted a small bump to consumers' water tariffs, to help defray the $622 million infrastructure cost.

Still, with a national election due in 2019 and an unusually wet winter looming, some worry the Sea of Galilee could be again neglected.

"Shortly before dawn, Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake... when the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified 'it's a ghost' they said, and cried out in fear.

"Shortly before dawn, Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake... when the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified 'it's a ghost' they said, and cried out in fear... but Jesus immediately told them: 'take courage, it is I. Don't be afraid'." It is a passage from the Holy Bible, Matthew 14:22-36. It tells the story of one of Jesus's most famous miracles. Some 2,000 years ago, Jesus walked across the Sea of Galilee - the water body between Israel and the occupied Golan heights - according to the Bible. Today, that doesn't require a miracle. The Sea of Galilee, one of the holiest places in Christianity, is Israel's largest freshwater reserve. But long periods of drought and over-pumping have brought the lake low. A reedy island has materialised at its southern edge, and will soon be a peninsula. Holiday-makers and fishermen teeter over expanding boggy beaches to reach the waterline. "Because last years we did not have enough rain and also we have a big exploitation water, the water is going slowly down, down, down and we don't know where it will stop," said Meir Sternberg, a local. Rocks are seen above the low-water level of the Sea of Galilee. (Reuters) The Sea of Galilee was last full in 2004. Today, its shores are six metres wider, just two centimetres from the lowest level ever recorded. If the lake shrinks too much, its water would become saltier and negatively affect animals and plants relying on it. It is a largely man-made disaster. Drought and overpumping have hit the Sea of Galilee hard. Israel sees a solution in desalination, in which it is a world leader. It plans to double the amount of Mediterranean seawater it processes and pipe half of it 75 kilometers (47 miles) to the Sea of Galilee. "(We) are doing it in order to save our nature, to fight global warming, I mean to prevent the effect, the devastating effect of global warming on the Sea of Galilee and also to create a very significant water storage for the entire state of Israel for time of emergencies," said Yuval Steinitz, Israeli energy and water minister. "If he (Jesus) is coming back, we will make sure that he will have to make a real effort to walk on the water once more," Steinitz joked. The project requires an investment of more than $600 million. The problem is larger than Israel - all the fresh water reserves in the region are currently at a 100-year lows. Finding a common solution is imperative. Man walks towards an island that has materialised at the southern edge of the Sea of Galilee. (Reuters) The Sea of Galilee is not isolated, it is part of a water basin comprising the Jordan River and the Dead Sea, too. If it shrinks, everything else shrinks faster. "We need this water, not only for us but also for the Jordanians, because they are in a very very tough conditions now from the water problems point of view," said Giora Shaham, Israel's Water Authority Director. Until now, desalination and water recycling have been enough to keep the situation under control. But as Israel enters the sixth year of drought and temperatures keep rising, new efforts are required. Israel's meteorological data shows that the country has become warmer by two degree celsius since the 1980s. When it rains, it rains too little, and the dry and cracked land finds it difficult to absorb rainfall. Preserving the lake would free Israel to offer Jordan more water under a 1994 peace treaty. "If there is irreversible damage done to the Sea of Galilee, to the Jordan, to this whole ecosystem, Israel's enemies could use it against her," said David Parsons, vice president of the International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem, which oversees evangelical outreach to Israel. "It could also affect Christian tourism to the land. It's very good to see Israel taking responsible steps now to address this, finally." Mussels and shells are seen on the ground at a shore of the Sea of Galilee in northern Israel. (Reuters) Israel's plan provides for piping in 120 million cubic metres annually. Steinitz hopes to see that almost tripled in a cabinet vote next month. Such capacity, he said, would replenish the Galilee by 2026. He predicted a small bump to consumers' water tariffs, to help defray the $622 million infrastructure cost. Still, with a national election due in 2019 and an unusually wet winter looming, some worry the Sea of Galilee could be again neglected.

Jesus walked on this biblical lake - now it needs a saviour

US backs Israel's operation to destroy Hezbollah tunnels

Israel launches operation to destroy Hezbollah tunnels

WION Dispatch: Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition stays intact; PM denies reports of early polls

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition stays intact; PM denies reports of early polls

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu resisted calls for snap polls Sunday, saying elections now would be "unnecessary and wrong", ahead of what he called last-ditch talks to hold his embattled coalition together.

Netanyahu's right-wing coalition was thrown into crisis Wednesday after Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman's resignation over a controversial Gaza ceasefire deal, leading to speculation over whether early elections have become inevitable.

After Lieberman's withdrawal along with his Yisrael Beitenu party, Netanyahu's government was left clinging to a one-seat majority in the 120-seat parliament.

Key coalition partners say that is unworkable.

Netanyahu, who has sought to delay calling elections, made his case at the start of a cabinet meeting on Sunday.

"In a period of security sensitivity, it's unnecessary and wrong to go to elections," Netanyahu said.

He noted past instances when right-wing governments had called elections that did not turn out as they had hoped.

"We need to do whatever we can to avoid such mistakes," he said.

Netanyahu planned to meet Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon, whose centre-right Kulanu party holds 10 seats, at 6:30 PM (1630 GMT) on Sunday for what he called a "last attempt" to keep the government together.

Elections are not due until November 2019.

Kahlon has said he does not think it is possible to continue with the existing coalition.

"If (Netanyahu) pulls a rabbit out of his hat, we'll see," Kahlon told Israeli television Saturday. "Meanwhile, I don't see a rabbit or a hat."

Education Minister Naftali Bennett of the far-right Jewish Home party, which holds eight seats in parliament, has demanded the defence portfolio as a way of keeping the government together.

Netanyahu says he will take it over at least temporarily rather than hand the key ministry to one of his main right-wing rivals, though a last-minute deal could not be ruled out.

On Saturday, Bennett told Israeli television that Lieberman had "collapsed the government".

"There is no more government and we are heading towards elections," he said. "There is no other alternative." 
- 'Senseless to continue' - 
Bennett declined to comment to journalists when entering Sunday's cabinet meeting, but Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked of his Jewish Home party said in a statement that making him defence minister was "the only justification" to keep the government together.

Netanyahu met Bennett on Friday, but conflicting reports emerged from their discussions.

A source close to Bennett said the two had agreed that "it would be senseless to continue" with the same coalition.

"They will set a date for elections when they meet with the (other) coalition partners on Sunday," the source said.

Within minutes, a statement from Netanyahu's Likud said that was wrong.

"The prime minister told minister Bennett that rumours that a decision has been made to go to elections are not correct," it said.

The crisis was set into motion with Lieberman's resignation over the ceasefire that ended the worst escalation between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza since a 2014 war.

Lieberman labelled the truce "capitulating to terror" and slammed Netanyahu's recent decision to allow Qatar to send millions of dollars in aid to the blockaded Palestinian enclave.

Israeli residents of southern communities hit by barrages of rockets from Gaza last week have also staged protests calling for tough action against Hamas, with which Israel has fought three wars since 2008.

A poll published after the ceasefire found 74 per cent of respondents were unhappy with Netanyahu's handling of the escalation with Gaza and its Islamist rulers Hamas, though it also showed his party would still easily win the most seats.

There has long been speculation that the premier may call elections before they are due in November 2019, particularly with police having recommended charges against him in two corruption probes.

The attorney general is expected to announce a decision in the coming months whether to pursue charges against him.

Some analysts believe he would be better positioned to combat them with a fresh electoral mandate.

But Netanyahu would want to make such a move at the most advantageous time -- not with public attention focused on the Gaza ceasefire.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu resisted calls for snap polls Sunday, saying elections now would be "unnecessary and wrong", ahead of what he called last-ditch talks to hold his embattled coalition together.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu resisted calls for snap polls Sunday, saying elections now would be "unnecessary and wrong", ahead of what he called last-ditch talks to hold his embattled coalition together. Netanyahu's right-wing coalition was thrown into crisis Wednesday after Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman's resignation over a controversial Gaza ceasefire deal, leading to speculation over whether early elections have become inevitable. After Lieberman's withdrawal along with his Yisrael Beitenu party, Netanyahu's government was left clinging to a one-seat majority in the 120-seat parliament. Key coalition partners say that is unworkable. Netanyahu, who has sought to delay calling elections, made his case at the start of a cabinet meeting on Sunday. "In a period of security sensitivity, it's unnecessary and wrong to go to elections," Netanyahu said. He noted past instances when right-wing governments had called elections that did not turn out as they had hoped. "We need to do whatever we can to avoid such mistakes," he said. Netanyahu planned to meet Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon, whose centre-right Kulanu party holds 10 seats, at 6:30 PM (1630 GMT) on Sunday for what he called a "last attempt" to keep the government together. Elections are not due until November 2019. Kahlon has said he does not think it is possible to continue with the existing coalition. "If (Netanyahu) pulls a rabbit out of his hat, we'll see," Kahlon told Israeli television Saturday. "Meanwhile, I don't see a rabbit or a hat." Education Minister Naftali Bennett of the far-right Jewish Home party, which holds eight seats in parliament, has demanded the defence portfolio as a way of keeping the government together. Netanyahu says he will take it over at least temporarily rather than hand the key ministry to one of his main right-wing rivals, though a last-minute deal could not be ruled out. On Saturday, Bennett told Israeli television that Lieberman had "collapsed the government". "There is no more government and we are heading towards elections," he said. "There is no other alternative." - 'Senseless to continue' - Bennett declined to comment to journalists when entering Sunday's cabinet meeting, but Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked of his Jewish Home party said in a statement that making him defence minister was "the only justification" to keep the government together. Netanyahu met Bennett on Friday, but conflicting reports emerged from their discussions. A source close to Bennett said the two had agreed that "it would be senseless to continue" with the same coalition. "They will set a date for elections when they meet with the (other) coalition partners on Sunday," the source said. Within minutes, a statement from Netanyahu's Likud said that was wrong. "The prime minister told minister Bennett that rumours that a decision has been made to go to elections are not correct," it said. The crisis was set into motion with Lieberman's resignation over the ceasefire that ended the worst escalation between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza since a 2014 war. Lieberman labelled the truce "capitulating to terror" and slammed Netanyahu's recent decision to allow Qatar to send millions of dollars in aid to the blockaded Palestinian enclave. Israeli residents of southern communities hit by barrages of rockets from Gaza last week have also staged protests calling for tough action against Hamas, with which Israel has fought three wars since 2008. A poll published after the ceasefire found 74 per cent of respondents were unhappy with Netanyahu's handling of the escalation with Gaza and its Islamist rulers Hamas, though it also showed his party would still easily win the most seats. There has long been speculation that the premier may call elections before they are due in November 2019, particularly with police having recommended charges against him in two corruption probes. The attorney general is expected to announce a decision in the coming months whether to pursue charges against him. Some analysts believe he would be better positioned to combat them with a fresh electoral mandate. But Netanyahu would want to make such a move at the most advantageous time -- not with public attention focused on the Gaza ceasefire.

Israel PM Netanyahu in crucial talks as he resists snap polls

The United States said it would oppose on Friday for the first time an annual resolution at the United Nations calling on Israel to rescind its authority in the occupied Golan Heights, drawing praise from Israeli officials.

The Golan Heights form a buffer between Israel and Syria of about 1,200 square km (460 square miles). Israel captured most of it from Syria in the 1967 Middle East war. It annexed the territory in 1981, a move not recognised internationally.&nbsp;

The United States has abstained in previous years on the annual "Occupied Syrian Golan" resolution, which declares Israel`s decision to impose its jurisdiction in the area "null and void", but Washington's UN envoy Nikki Haley said it would vote against the resolution in Friday`s vote.

"The United States will no longer abstain when the United Nations engages in its useless annual vote on the Golan Heights," she said in a statement on Thursday.

"The resolution is plainly biased against Israel. Further, the atrocities the Syrian regime continues to commit prove its lack of fitness to govern anyone."

Her comments came after the US ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, said in September that he expected Israel to keep the Golan Heights in perpetuity, in an apparent nod towards its claim of sovereignty over the territory.

Since early in Donald Trump's presidency, Israel has lobbied for formal US endorsement of its control of the Golan. Trump has recognised Jerusalem as Israel`s capital, breaking with other world powers, though his national security adviser John Bolton told Reuters in August a similar Golan move was not under discussion.

In the past two years, Trump has twice ordered US-led air strikes against targets in Syria in response to what Washington called the use of chemical weapons against civilians by President Bashar al-Assad`s forces.

Israeli officials praised the US move.

Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan called it "extremely important", saying on Twitter that "no sane person can believe that it (the Golan) should be given to Assad &amp; Iran".

Tehran has supported Assad during the civil war and Israel has been warning against Iranian military entrenchment in Syria.

Israel has closely monitored the fighting in Syria, where just across the Golan frontier battles have raged in clear view.

The United States said it would oppose on Friday for the first time an annual resolution at the United Nations calling on Israel to rescind its authority in the occupied Golan Heights, drawing praise from Israeli officials.

The United States said it would oppose on Friday for the first time an annual resolution at the United Nations calling on Israel to rescind its authority in the occupied Golan Heights, drawing praise from Israeli officials. The Golan Heights form a buffer between Israel and Syria of about 1,200 square km (460 square miles). Israel captured most of it from Syria in the 1967 Middle East war. It annexed the territory in 1981, a move not recognised internationally. The United States has abstained in previous years on the annual "Occupied Syrian Golan" resolution, which declares Israel`s decision to impose its jurisdiction in the area "null and void", but Washington's UN envoy Nikki Haley said it would vote against the resolution in Friday`s vote. "The United States will no longer abstain when the United Nations engages in its useless annual vote on the Golan Heights," she said in a statement on Thursday. "The resolution is plainly biased against Israel. Further, the atrocities the Syrian regime continues to commit prove its lack of fitness to govern anyone." Her comments came after the US ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, said in September that he expected Israel to keep the Golan Heights in perpetuity, in an apparent nod towards its claim of sovereignty over the territory. Since early in Donald Trump's presidency, Israel has lobbied for formal US endorsement of its control of the Golan. Trump has recognised Jerusalem as Israel`s capital, breaking with other world powers, though his national security adviser John Bolton told Reuters in August a similar Golan move was not under discussion. In the past two years, Trump has twice ordered US-led air strikes against targets in Syria in response to what Washington called the use of chemical weapons against civilians by President Bashar al-Assad`s forces. Israeli officials praised the US move. Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan called it "extremely important", saying on Twitter that "no sane person can believe that it (the Golan) should be given to Assad & Iran". Tehran has supported Assad during the civil war and Israel has been warning against Iranian military entrenchment in Syria. Israel has closely monitored the fighting in Syria, where just across the Golan frontier battles have raged in clear view.

US to oppose UN Golan resolution, wins Israeli praise

Here are key dates in the premiership of Benjamin Netanyahu since he returned to office in 2009.

Anchored to the right

The right-wing Likud chief Netanyahu becomes prime minister for a second time in March 2009, after a first stint between 1996 and 1999.

His governing coalition is firmly anchored to the right, with the post of a foreign minister going to ultranationalist Avigdor Lieberman.

In June, Netanyahu accepts for the first time the principle of a Palestinian state, while imposing conditions such as its demilitarisation, which are immediately rejected by the Palestinians.

He rejects an end to Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank.

Gaza wars

In November 2012 Israel launches Operation Pillar of Defence with a missile strike that kills a top Hamas commander in Gaza City.&nbsp;

In the ensuing eight-day flare-up, 177 Palestinians and six Israelis are killed before an Egypt-brokered truce takes effect.

In July 2014, Israel opens Operation Protective Edge against the Gaza Strip with the aim of ending rocket fire and destroying militant tunnels.

It leaves 2,251 dead on the Palestinian side, mostly civilians, and 74 on the Israeli side, mostly soldiers.

In late March 2018, mass protests start along the Gaza-Israel border prompting a deadly response from the Israeli army. The worst escalation between the two sides since the 2014 war erupts in November, with barrages of rocket fire from Gaza and Israeli air strikes.&nbsp;

By mid-November at least 234 Palestinians and two Israeli soldiers had been killed in the months of unrest.

Most right-wing government

In May 2015, Netanyahu fresh from victory in March general elections, wins a confidence vote in parliament for his fourth government.

In May 2016, he signs a coalition agreement with the Yisrael Beitenu party and its leader Lieberman, naming him defence minister.

The government is the most right-wing in Israeli history.

In June 2017, Israel starts building its first new government-sanctioned settlement in the occupied territories since 1991 as it presses ahead with settlement expansion in defiance of international concern.

Corruption allegations&nbsp;

In February 2018. police recommend the indictment of Netanyahu following long-running investigations into two cases of alleged corruption.

Netanyahu, who proclaims his innocence, in October undergoes a 12th round of questioning although formal charges have not been laid.&nbsp;

The same month, his wife Sara goes on trial on separate allegations of fraud and breach of trust.

US quits Iran nuclear deal

In late April 2018, as the United States considers whether to pull out of a landmark 2015 nuclear deal between major powers and Iran, Netanyahu unveils on live television what he says is new "proof" of an Iranian weapons plan.

When President Donald Trump quits the deal in May, Netanyahu praises his "bold" decision.

US embassy moves to Jerusalem

In May 2018, the United States opens its new embassy in Jerusalem, after Trump ordered its transfer from Tel Aviv in February in a move that infuriates the Palestinians who also have claims in the holy city.

A jubilant Netanyahu praises Trump as having made history.

Nation state for Jews

In July 2018, parliament adopts a law defining Israel as the nation-state of the Jewish people, making Hebrew the official language and downgrading the status of Arabic.

It sparks outrage among Arabs and Palestinians but Netanyahu defends the law, calling its approval a "decisive moment" in Israeli history.

Defence minister quits

In November 2018, Netanyahu accepts an Egyptian-brokered ceasefire with Hamas to end the worst escalation between the two sides since the 2014 war.

Lieberman, the defence minister, rejects the deal and resigns, removing five seats from Netanyahu's parliamentary coalition and leaving the premier with a one-seat majority.

It prompts speculation of snap elections before the scheduled date of November 2019.

Here are key dates in the premiership of Benjamin Netanyahu since he returned to office in 2009. Anchored to the right The right-wing Likud chief Netanyahu becomes prime minister for a second time in March 2009, after a first stint between 1996 and 1999.

Here are key dates in the premiership of Benjamin Netanyahu since he returned to office in 2009. Anchored to the right The right-wing Likud chief Netanyahu becomes prime minister for a second time in March 2009, after a first stint between 1996 and 1999. His governing coalition is firmly anchored to the right, with the post of a foreign minister going to ultranationalist Avigdor Lieberman. In June, Netanyahu accepts for the first time the principle of a Palestinian state, while imposing conditions such as its demilitarisation, which are immediately rejected by the Palestinians. He rejects an end to Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank. Gaza wars In November 2012 Israel launches Operation Pillar of Defence with a missile strike that kills a top Hamas commander in Gaza City. In the ensuing eight-day flare-up, 177 Palestinians and six Israelis are killed before an Egypt-brokered truce takes effect. In July 2014, Israel opens Operation Protective Edge against the Gaza Strip with the aim of ending rocket fire and destroying militant tunnels. It leaves 2,251 dead on the Palestinian side, mostly civilians, and 74 on the Israeli side, mostly soldiers. In late March 2018, mass protests start along the Gaza-Israel border prompting a deadly response from the Israeli army. The worst escalation between the two sides since the 2014 war erupts in November, with barrages of rocket fire from Gaza and Israeli air strikes. By mid-November at least 234 Palestinians and two Israeli soldiers had been killed in the months of unrest. Most right-wing government In May 2015, Netanyahu fresh from victory in March general elections, wins a confidence vote in parliament for his fourth government. In May 2016, he signs a coalition agreement with the Yisrael Beitenu party and its leader Lieberman, naming him defence minister. The government is the most right-wing in Israeli history. In June 2017, Israel starts building its first new government-sanctioned settlement in the occupied territories since 1991 as it presses ahead with settlement expansion in defiance of international concern. Corruption allegations In February 2018. police recommend the indictment of Netanyahu following long-running investigations into two cases of alleged corruption. Netanyahu, who proclaims his innocence, in October undergoes a 12th round of questioning although formal charges have not been laid. The same month, his wife Sara goes on trial on separate allegations of fraud and breach of trust. US quits Iran nuclear deal In late April 2018, as the United States considers whether to pull out of a landmark 2015 nuclear deal between major powers and Iran, Netanyahu unveils on live television what he says is new "proof" of an Iranian weapons plan. When President Donald Trump quits the deal in May, Netanyahu praises his "bold" decision. US embassy moves to Jerusalem In May 2018, the United States opens its new embassy in Jerusalem, after Trump ordered its transfer from Tel Aviv in February in a move that infuriates the Palestinians who also have claims in the holy city. A jubilant Netanyahu praises Trump as having made history. Nation state for Jews In July 2018, parliament adopts a law defining Israel as the nation-state of the Jewish people, making Hebrew the official language and downgrading the status of Arabic. It sparks outrage among Arabs and Palestinians but Netanyahu defends the law, calling its approval a "decisive moment" in Israeli history. Defence minister quits In November 2018, Netanyahu accepts an Egyptian-brokered ceasefire with Hamas to end the worst escalation between the two sides since the 2014 war. Lieberman, the defence minister, rejects the deal and resigns, removing five seats from Netanyahu's parliamentary coalition and leaving the premier with a one-seat majority. It prompts speculation of snap elections before the scheduled date of November 2019.

Israel under prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu: Key dates

Gaza Conflict: Hamas announces ceasefire

Israel and Palestinian militants in the blockaded Gaza Strip have been exchanging fire in the worst escalation since a 2014 war. Here's a description of where the situation stands:

How did this round begin?

The latest round of violence began on Sunday, when Israeli special forces were exposed operating inside the Gaza Strip. In an ensuing clash, an Israeli officer and seven Palestinian militants were killed, prompting Hamas to vow revenge.

Israel said the covert operation was an intelligence-gathering mission.

Its timing has raided questions since progress had been made in recent weeks toward ending months of unrest along the Gaza-Israel border, but the Israeli military said it was necessary to defend the country.

Palestinian militants responded with heavy fire on southern Israel, launching nearly 400 mortar rounds and rockets that wounded 27 people and killed one - a Palestinian living in southern Israel.

An anti-tank missile also hit a bus that Hamas says was being used by Israeli soldiers. A soldier was severely wounded.

Israel hit back with widespread strikes on Hamas and Islamic Jihad targets, killing six Palestinians and wounding 25.

Israel says it has struck around 150 targets across the Palestinian enclave, including Hamas's Al-Aqsa TV building and an internal security building in Gaza City.

Efforts to prevent escalation

UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov said he was working with Egypt so "Gaza steps back from the brink," and called for restraint on both sides.

Israeli officials would not confirm reports on ceasefire talks, as members of the security cabinet - the body authorised to declare war - convened in Tel Aviv.

Neither side is seen as wanting another war, but the violence threatened to spin out of control.

Israeli military spokesman Jonathan Conricus said they had "the intelligence and capabilities to strike a very wide range of military targets that belong to Hamas."

Hamas's armed wing warned it would expand its targets if Israeli strikes continued.

The Israeli army estimated there were 20,000 projectiles in Gaza that could be fired.

Months of unrest

The latest round of violence came after months of deadly unrest along the Gaza-Israel border, but there had been progress toward restoring calm in recent weeks.

Israel had allowed Qatar to bring $15 million into Gaza for salaries as well as fuel to ease an electricity shortage, as part of understandings aimed at calming the border, where protests have triggered frequent clashes since March 30.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the move, saying he wanted to avoid war if it was not necessary.

As a result, border protests had been calmer over the past couple weeks.

At least 233 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed by Israeli fire since March 30, the majority shot on the border, while others have died in Israeli strikes.

Two Israeli soldiers have been killed in that time.

Egypt and the United Nations had been brokering indirect negotiations for a long-term truce with Israel, against which Hamas has fought three wars since 2008.

Gaza in crisis

Gaza is ruled by Hamas, blacklisted as a terrorist movement by the European Union and the United States.

Israel maintains a crippling blockade of the Palestinian enclave to isolate Hamas and prevent it from building up its military capabilities.

Hamas seized control of Gaza in 2007 from forces loyal to the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority, which has been seeking ways to regain power over the small territory.

Multiple efforts to reconcile the Palestinian factions have failed, and with an unemployment rate of 53 percent, Mladenov recently warned of a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which he said was "imploding."

Israel and Palestinian militants in the blockaded Gaza Strip have been exchanging fire in the worst escalation since a 2014 war. Here's a description of where the situation stands: How did this round begin?

Israel and Palestinian militants in the blockaded Gaza Strip have been exchanging fire in the worst escalation since a 2014 war. Here's a description of where the situation stands: How did this round begin? The latest round of violence began on Sunday, when Israeli special forces were exposed operating inside the Gaza Strip. In an ensuing clash, an Israeli officer and seven Palestinian militants were killed, prompting Hamas to vow revenge. Israel said the covert operation was an intelligence-gathering mission. Its timing has raided questions since progress had been made in recent weeks toward ending months of unrest along the Gaza-Israel border, but the Israeli military said it was necessary to defend the country. Palestinian militants responded with heavy fire on southern Israel, launching nearly 400 mortar rounds and rockets that wounded 27 people and killed one - a Palestinian living in southern Israel. An anti-tank missile also hit a bus that Hamas says was being used by Israeli soldiers. A soldier was severely wounded. Israel hit back with widespread strikes on Hamas and Islamic Jihad targets, killing six Palestinians and wounding 25. Israel says it has struck around 150 targets across the Palestinian enclave, including Hamas's Al-Aqsa TV building and an internal security building in Gaza City. Efforts to prevent escalation UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov said he was working with Egypt so "Gaza steps back from the brink," and called for restraint on both sides. Israeli officials would not confirm reports on ceasefire talks, as members of the security cabinet - the body authorised to declare war - convened in Tel Aviv. Neither side is seen as wanting another war, but the violence threatened to spin out of control. Israeli military spokesman Jonathan Conricus said they had "the intelligence and capabilities to strike a very wide range of military targets that belong to Hamas." Hamas's armed wing warned it would expand its targets if Israeli strikes continued. The Israeli army estimated there were 20,000 projectiles in Gaza that could be fired. Months of unrest The latest round of violence came after months of deadly unrest along the Gaza-Israel border, but there had been progress toward restoring calm in recent weeks. Israel had allowed Qatar to bring $15 million into Gaza for salaries as well as fuel to ease an electricity shortage, as part of understandings aimed at calming the border, where protests have triggered frequent clashes since March 30. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the move, saying he wanted to avoid war if it was not necessary. As a result, border protests had been calmer over the past couple weeks. At least 233 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed by Israeli fire since March 30, the majority shot on the border, while others have died in Israeli strikes. Two Israeli soldiers have been killed in that time. Egypt and the United Nations had been brokering indirect negotiations for a long-term truce with Israel, against which Hamas has fought three wars since 2008. Gaza in crisis Gaza is ruled by Hamas, blacklisted as a terrorist movement by the European Union and the United States. Israel maintains a crippling blockade of the Palestinian enclave to isolate Hamas and prevent it from building up its military capabilities. Hamas seized control of Gaza in 2007 from forces loyal to the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority, which has been seeking ways to regain power over the small territory. Multiple efforts to reconcile the Palestinian factions have failed, and with an unemployment rate of 53 percent, Mladenov recently warned of a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which he said was "imploding."

Israel-Gaza escalation: What you need to know

Israel's parliament will renew debate next week on a bill that would make it easier to sentence Palestinian attackers to death, Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman said Tuesday while vowing to have it passed.

"After over three years of a stubborn struggle, the death penalty for terrorist law will finally be brought to the law committee next Wednesday (November 14), and then for its first reading in the Knesset plenum," Lieberman said on Twitter.

"We won't relent or stop until completing the mission."

The bill, which passed a preliminary vote by the full parliament in January, would ease the requirements military courts in the occupied West Bank must meet to sentence Palestinians convicted of "terrorist" crimes to death.&nbsp;

As the law stands now, a panel of three military judges must unanimously approve any death penalty in military courts.

The new bill, planned by members of Lieberman's Yisrael Beitenu party at his behest, would change the requirement to a majority instead of unanimity.

Israel has not carried out any executions since 1962, when Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann was hanged.

Israel abolished the use of capital punishment for murder in civil courts in 1954, though it can still, in theory, be applied for war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, treason and crimes against the Jewish people.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed support for the death penalty in certain cases.

But a senior member of Netanyahu's party said Tuesday that he would object to the bill since the Israeli security establishment opposed it.

"I won't support imposing the death penalty before there's a serious debate and decision in the government and security cabinet," Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz wrote on Twitter.

"According to the IDF (Israel Defence Forces), Shin Bet (internal security service) and all the security establishment not only would (the death penalty) not help the fight against terror, it would cause great damage," he said.

A law to sentence "terrorists" to death was one of Lieberman's election promises in 2015, and government support for it was a condition for Yisrael Beitenu joining Netanyahu's coalition.&nbsp;

Israeli elections are expected to be called in the coming months and politicians have been ramping up campaign rhetoric.

The Palestinian government on Tuesday said the bill was "a public invitation to commit murder, and execution, and carry out massacres against our Palestinian people."&nbsp;

"This is a clear breach of laws, international and humanitarian," a statement from the Palestinian government said.&nbsp;

Israel's parliament will renew debate next week on a bill that would make it easier to sentence Palestinian attackers to death, Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman said Tuesday while vowing to have it passed.

Israel's parliament will renew debate next week on a bill that would make it easier to sentence Palestinian attackers to death, Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman said Tuesday while vowing to have it passed. "After over three years of a stubborn struggle, the death penalty for terrorist law will finally be brought to the law committee next Wednesday (November 14), and then for its first reading in the Knesset plenum," Lieberman said on Twitter. "We won't relent or stop until completing the mission." The bill, which passed a preliminary vote by the full parliament in January, would ease the requirements military courts in the occupied West Bank must meet to sentence Palestinians convicted of "terrorist" crimes to death. As the law stands now, a panel of three military judges must unanimously approve any death penalty in military courts. The new bill, planned by members of Lieberman's Yisrael Beitenu party at his behest, would change the requirement to a majority instead of unanimity. Israel has not carried out any executions since 1962, when Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann was hanged. Israel abolished the use of capital punishment for murder in civil courts in 1954, though it can still, in theory, be applied for war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, treason and crimes against the Jewish people. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed support for the death penalty in certain cases. But a senior member of Netanyahu's party said Tuesday that he would object to the bill since the Israeli security establishment opposed it. "I won't support imposing the death penalty before there's a serious debate and decision in the government and security cabinet," Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz wrote on Twitter. "According to the IDF (Israel Defence Forces), Shin Bet (internal security service) and all the security establishment not only would (the death penalty) not help the fight against terror, it would cause great damage," he said. A law to sentence "terrorists" to death was one of Lieberman's election promises in 2015, and government support for it was a condition for Yisrael Beitenu joining Netanyahu's coalition. Israeli elections are expected to be called in the coming months and politicians have been ramping up campaign rhetoric. The Palestinian government on Tuesday said the bill was "a public invitation to commit murder, and execution, and carry out massacres against our Palestinian people." "This is a clear breach of laws, international and humanitarian," a statement from the Palestinian government said.

Israel lawmakers to debate death penalty for Palestinian 'terrorists'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday hailed US leader Donald Trump for reimposing sanctions against mutual foe Iran, ahead of a fresh round of penalties set to kick in Monday.&nbsp;

"Thank you, President Trump, for this historic move. The sanctions are indeed coming," Netanyahu said in a statement released by his office.&nbsp;

"For years I've been calling for sanctions to be fully reimposed against Iran's murderous terrorist regime, which threatens the entire world."

Trump announced in May he was withdrawing the US from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and reimposing sanctions, sparking outrage among world powers who say Tehran has been complying with commitments to restrict its atomic programme.

On Friday, Washington confirmed it was going ahead with a second round of sanctions set to take effect on Monday.&nbsp;

Netanyahu said the effect of the first round of sanctions reintroduced in August "were already being felt".

"The riyal has plummeted, Iran's economy is depressed and the results are evident," he said.&nbsp;

The European Union, France, Britain and Germany -- all signatories to the 2015 deal with Iran -- have condemned the US move to renew its sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;

Washington says it wants a new deal with Tehran, curtailing its regional interventions and missile programme -- demands which have been flatly rejected by Iran.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday hailed US leader Donald Trump for reimposing sanctions against mutual foe Iran, ahead of a fresh round of penalties set to kick in Monday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday hailed US leader Donald Trump for reimposing sanctions against mutual foe Iran, ahead of a fresh round of penalties set to kick in Monday. "Thank you, President Trump, for this historic move. The sanctions are indeed coming," Netanyahu said in a statement released by his office. "For years I've been calling for sanctions to be fully reimposed against Iran's murderous terrorist regime, which threatens the entire world." Trump announced in May he was withdrawing the US from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and reimposing sanctions, sparking outrage among world powers who say Tehran has been complying with commitments to restrict its atomic programme. On Friday, Washington confirmed it was going ahead with a second round of sanctions set to take effect on Monday. Netanyahu said the effect of the first round of sanctions reintroduced in August "were already being felt". "The riyal has plummeted, Iran's economy is depressed and the results are evident," he said. The European Union, France, Britain and Germany -- all signatories to the 2015 deal with Iran -- have condemned the US move to renew its sanctions on Iran. Washington says it wants a new deal with Tehran, curtailing its regional interventions and missile programme -- demands which have been flatly rejected by Iran.

Israel's Netanyahu hails Trump for Iran sanctions

The reported landing of an Israeli private jet has created uproar in Pakistan, with the government issuing a denial on the media reports.

The controversy started after Israeli newspaper Haaretz's English edition Editor Avi Scharf tweeted details of a mysterious jet landing in Islamabad along with snippets of the flight details.

"Israeli business jet flew from Tel Aviv to Islamabad, Pakistan, on the ground 10 hours and back to Tel Aviv. Cleared flight-plan with usual 5 minute ground time trick in Amman," Scharf wrote on Twitter on October 25.

He quoted the data of flight tracking website, flightradar24, to further back his claims. It was alleged that flight had descended near Islamabad before going out of coverage. The aircraft reappeared 10 hours later heading south-west from Islamabad.

The issue raked up an uproar in Pakistan as Islamabad does not recognise Israel and, therefore, doesn't have diplomatic relations with it.

Quoting Pakistan People's Party vice-president Sherry Rehman, Pakistani media outlet the Dawn said, "The government should explain who came in the aircraft. The decisions that would be taken without taking the nation into confidence would not be acceptable."

On October 27, Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority categorically rejected any news regarding landing of Israeli plane in the country. The government said there was no truth in any Israeli jet landing at any Pakistani airport.

Following the explanation by the government, Scharf had also taken to his Twitter handle and slightly diluted his claims saying that the craft might only have flown overhead Pakistan.

"Pakistan gov't issues denial. I'm sure @flightradar24 can tell what was final altitude and when landed. But I assume they won't. Maybe it only flew overhead Pakistan to goto China... Up to you investigative minds in Pakistan," he wrote on Saturday.

As per reports, the only known interaction between Pakistan and Israel took place on September 1, 2005 between the then Pakistani foreign minister Khurshid Kasuri and his Israeli counterpart Silvan Shalom.

The reported landing of an Israeli private jet has created uproar in Pakistan, with the government issuing a denial on the media reports. The controversy started after Israeli newspaper Haaretz's English edition Editor Avi Scharf tweeted details of a mysterious jet landing in Islamabad along with snippets of the flight details.

The reported landing of an Israeli private jet has created uproar in Pakistan, with the government issuing a denial on the media reports. The controversy started after Israeli newspaper Haaretz's English edition Editor Avi Scharf tweeted details of a mysterious jet landing in Islamabad along with snippets of the flight details. "Israeli business jet flew from Tel Aviv to Islamabad, Pakistan, on the ground 10 hours and back to Tel Aviv. Cleared flight-plan with usual 5 minute ground time trick in Amman," Scharf wrote on Twitter on October 25. He quoted the data of flight tracking website, flightradar24, to further back his claims. It was alleged that flight had descended near Islamabad before going out of coverage. The aircraft reappeared 10 hours later heading south-west from Islamabad. The issue raked up an uproar in Pakistan as Islamabad does not recognise Israel and, therefore, doesn't have diplomatic relations with it. Quoting Pakistan People's Party vice-president Sherry Rehman, Pakistani media outlet the Dawn said, "The government should explain who came in the aircraft. The decisions that would be taken without taking the nation into confidence would not be acceptable." On October 27, Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority categorically rejected any news regarding landing of Israeli plane in the country. The government said there was no truth in any Israeli jet landing at any Pakistani airport. Following the explanation by the government, Scharf had also taken to his Twitter handle and slightly diluted his claims saying that the craft might only have flown overhead Pakistan. "Pakistan gov't issues denial. I'm sure @flightradar24 can tell what was final altitude and when landed. But I assume they won't. Maybe it only flew overhead Pakistan to goto China... Up to you investigative minds in Pakistan," he wrote on Saturday. As per reports, the only known interaction between Pakistan and Israel took place on September 1, 2005 between the then Pakistani foreign minister Khurshid Kasuri and his Israeli counterpart Silvan Shalom.

Israeli jet landing reports create uproar in Pak, government denies

Pakistan President Arif Alvi on Sunday ruled out establishing any kind of relations with Israel as he strongly rejected reports that an Israeli aircraft carrying some officials secretly landed in Islamabad and flew away after several hours at the airport here.

"Islamabad is not establishing any kind of relations with Israel," Alvi told the media before his departure for Turkey on a three-day official visit in the wee hours of Sunday.

It all started when an Israeli journalist Avi Scharf tweeted on October 25 that an Israeli business jet flew from Tel Aviv to Islamabad where it was on the ground for 10 hours, before flying back to Tel Aviv.

Social media users took note and flayed the Pakistan government with the Opposition also joining in to demand an explanation about the "secret Israeli mission".

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi also dismissed reports of an Israeli aircraft landing in Pakistan as fake and baseless.&nbsp;

Qureshi said that something which is not even real does not warrant a response.

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry has also rejected the reports and said the "government would not negotiate in secret with either Israel or India".

He regretted such reports despite the fact that the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) had also denied reports of the presence of any Israeli aircraft in Pakistani airspace or at its airports.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Ahsan Iqbal, who earlier led the Opposition's barrage, said Chaudhry's reaction showed the government was trying to hide something.

"The parliament should be taken into confidence over the issue," he demanded.

BBC Urdu reported that the aircraft in question was a Canadian-manufactured Bombardier Global Express with the serial number 9394. It was registered on February 22, 2017 in the Isle of Man in the UK by a company called Multibird Overseas Ltd.

The Israeli journalist later said he was not "100 per cent sure" if the plane had landed in Islamabad.

Pakistan and Israel do not have diplomatic relations and their aircraft are not allowed to use each other's airspace.&nbsp;

Pakistan President Arif Alvi on Sunday ruled out establishing any kind of relations with Israel as he strongly rejected reports that an Israeli aircraft carrying some officials secretly landed in Islamabad and flew away after several hours at the airport here.

Pakistan President Arif Alvi on Sunday ruled out establishing any kind of relations with Israel as he strongly rejected reports that an Israeli aircraft carrying some officials secretly landed in Islamabad and flew away after several hours at the airport here. "Islamabad is not establishing any kind of relations with Israel," Alvi told the media before his departure for Turkey on a three-day official visit in the wee hours of Sunday. It all started when an Israeli journalist Avi Scharf tweeted on October 25 that an Israeli business jet flew from Tel Aviv to Islamabad where it was on the ground for 10 hours, before flying back to Tel Aviv. Social media users took note and flayed the Pakistan government with the Opposition also joining in to demand an explanation about the "secret Israeli mission". Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi also dismissed reports of an Israeli aircraft landing in Pakistan as fake and baseless. Qureshi said that something which is not even real does not warrant a response. Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry has also rejected the reports and said the "government would not negotiate in secret with either Israel or India". He regretted such reports despite the fact that the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) had also denied reports of the presence of any Israeli aircraft in Pakistani airspace or at its airports. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Ahsan Iqbal, who earlier led the Opposition's barrage, said Chaudhry's reaction showed the government was trying to hide something. "The parliament should be taken into confidence over the issue," he demanded. BBC Urdu reported that the aircraft in question was a Canadian-manufactured Bombardier Global Express with the serial number 9394. It was registered on February 22, 2017 in the Isle of Man in the UK by a company called Multibird Overseas Ltd. The Israeli journalist later said he was not "100 per cent sure" if the plane had landed in Islamabad. Pakistan and Israel do not have diplomatic relations and their aircraft are not allowed to use each other's airspace.

Pak President Alvi rules out establishing any kind of ties with Israel

A barrage of rockets from Gaza hit Israel during the night, the army said Saturday, hours after five Palestinians were killed during clashes on the Israeli border, in a flareup that could jeopardise truce efforts.

The largest projectile attacks in months and the border fatalities came despite talk of progress towards an Egyptian-brokered deal to end months of often violent protests along the border.

"Overnight, dozens of rockets were launched from the Gaza Strip at communities in southern Israel," the army said in a statement, putting the exact number in a separate announcement at 30.

"The IDF's Iron Dome aerial defense system intercepted approximately 10 projectiles," the army said, adding that two rockets fell within the Gaza Strip while the others landed in "open areas".

Israeli medics said seven civilians were being treated for shock.

In response to the rockets, Israeli fighter jets, helicopters and drones struck "approximately 80 Hamas targets throughout the Gaza Strip".

There were no reports of Gaza casualties as a result of the strikes.

Hamas, the militant Islamist rulers of Gaza, did not claim responsibility for the rockets, but Israel holds it responsible for any launches from the coastal enclave.

"The rocket fire is conducted in a terror-filled atmosphere which is generated by Hamas in the area of the security fence and in acts such as tonight's events," the army said.

Islamic Jihad, the second largest militant group in Gaza, hailed the rocket fire in a statement as a response to "Israeli aggressions", stopping short however of directly claiming responsibility for the launches.

A Hamas official said that following the escalation Egypt was again seeking to negotiate a return to calm.

'Riot dispersal means'&nbsp;

Earlier, five Palestinians aged between 22 and 27 died in separate incidents along the border fence, the Gaza health ministry said.

The army did not comment on the deaths but said around 16,000 "rioters and demonstrators" had gathered along the border, with some setting tyres alight and hurling rocks, firebombs and grenades towards soldiers.

Troops responded with "riot dispersal means", a spokesman added.

Three of the men were shot dead east of Khan Yunis in southern Gaza, while one was killed east of Jabalia in the north of the coastal territory, the health ministry said.

A fifth man died east of Bureij in central Gaza when a hand grenade he was holding exploded accidentally, witnesses said.

Palestinians have gathered for protests along the Gaza Strip's border at least weekly since March 30.

At least 212 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in Gaza since the protests began, according to figures collated by AFP.

The majority have died during protests, while smaller numbers have been killed by airstrikes and tank fire.

One Israeli soldier was shot dead by a Palestinian sniper along the border in the same period.

The protesters are calling to be allowed to return to lands their families fled or were expelled from in a 1948 war surrounding the creation of Israel and which are now inside the Jewish state.

They are also protesting over Israel's crippling blockade of Gaza.

Israel accuses Hamas of orchestrating the often violent demonstrations.

Israel and Hamas have fought three wars since 2008 and much of the international community considers the Islamist movement a terrorist organisation.

Truce deal at risk&nbsp;

The fresh violence could also scupper hopes of a deal to end the months of protests.

Egypt and the United Nations have been brokering indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel with the aim of&nbsp;calming the situation amid fears of another war.

Last week, a rocket fired from Gaza hit an Israeli home, narrowly avoiding killing a family. In response the Israeli army carried out air strikes on around 20 Hamas targets in Gaza.

The London-based Arabic newspaper Al-Hayat reported Friday that a deal had been reached that would see the protests end in exchange for an easing of Israel's blockade.

Hamas officials denied a deal had been struck but confirmed to AFP that progress was being made.

"We expect to reach an agreement very soon," a senior Hamas official said earlier Friday on condition of anonymity.

Israel also fully reopened its border crossings with the Gaza Strip this week following a week of relative calm.

It allowed dozens of trucks of fuel paid for by Qatar into the strip, having previously banned their entry in response to the border violence.

Israel says the decade-long blockade is necessary to isolate Hamas, while critics say it amounts to collective punishment of Gaza's two million residents.

A barrage of rockets from Gaza hit Israel during the night, the army said Saturday, hours after five Palestinians were killed during clashes on the Israeli border, in a flareup that could jeopardise truce efforts.

A barrage of rockets from Gaza hit Israel during the night, the army said Saturday, hours after five Palestinians were killed during clashes on the Israeli border, in a flareup that could jeopardise truce efforts. The largest projectile attacks in months and the border fatalities came despite talk of progress towards an Egyptian-brokered deal to end months of often violent protests along the border. "Overnight, dozens of rockets were launched from the Gaza Strip at communities in southern Israel," the army said in a statement, putting the exact number in a separate announcement at 30. "The IDF's Iron Dome aerial defense system intercepted approximately 10 projectiles," the army said, adding that two rockets fell within the Gaza Strip while the others landed in "open areas". Israeli medics said seven civilians were being treated for shock. In response to the rockets, Israeli fighter jets, helicopters and drones struck "approximately 80 Hamas targets throughout the Gaza Strip". There were no reports of Gaza casualties as a result of the strikes. Hamas, the militant Islamist rulers of Gaza, did not claim responsibility for the rockets, but Israel holds it responsible for any launches from the coastal enclave. "The rocket fire is conducted in a terror-filled atmosphere which is generated by Hamas in the area of the security fence and in acts such as tonight's events," the army said. Islamic Jihad, the second largest militant group in Gaza, hailed the rocket fire in a statement as a response to "Israeli aggressions", stopping short however of directly claiming responsibility for the launches. A Hamas official said that following the escalation Egypt was again seeking to negotiate a return to calm. 'Riot dispersal means' Earlier, five Palestinians aged between 22 and 27 died in separate incidents along the border fence, the Gaza health ministry said. The army did not comment on the deaths but said around 16,000 "rioters and demonstrators" had gathered along the border, with some setting tyres alight and hurling rocks, firebombs and grenades towards soldiers. Troops responded with "riot dispersal means", a spokesman added. Three of the men were shot dead east of Khan Yunis in southern Gaza, while one was killed east of Jabalia in the north of the coastal territory, the health ministry said. A fifth man died east of Bureij in central Gaza when a hand grenade he was holding exploded accidentally, witnesses said. Palestinians have gathered for protests along the Gaza Strip's border at least weekly since March 30. At least 212 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in Gaza since the protests began, according to figures collated by AFP. The majority have died during protests, while smaller numbers have been killed by airstrikes and tank fire. One Israeli soldier was shot dead by a Palestinian sniper along the border in the same period. The protesters are calling to be allowed to return to lands their families fled or were expelled from in a 1948 war surrounding the creation of Israel and which are now inside the Jewish state. They are also protesting over Israel's crippling blockade of Gaza. Israel accuses Hamas of orchestrating the often violent demonstrations. Israel and Hamas have fought three wars since 2008 and much of the international community considers the Islamist movement a terrorist organisation. Truce deal at risk The fresh violence could also scupper hopes of a deal to end the months of protests. Egypt and the United Nations have been brokering indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel with the aim of calming the situation amid fears of another war. Last week, a rocket fired from Gaza hit an Israeli home, narrowly avoiding killing a family. In response the Israeli army carried out air strikes on around 20 Hamas targets in Gaza. The London-based Arabic newspaper Al-Hayat reported Friday that a deal had been reached that would see the protests end in exchange for an easing of Israel's blockade. Hamas officials denied a deal had been struck but confirmed to AFP that progress was being made. "We expect to reach an agreement very soon," a senior Hamas official said earlier Friday on condition of anonymity. Israel also fully reopened its border crossings with the Gaza Strip this week following a week of relative calm. It allowed dozens of trucks of fuel paid for by Qatar into the strip, having previously banned their entry in response to the border violence. Israel says the decade-long blockade is necessary to isolate Hamas, while critics say it amounts to collective punishment of Gaza's two million residents.

Gaza rockets hit Israel after 5 Palestinians killed in border flareup

Oman described Israel as an accepted Middle East state on Saturday, a day after hosting a surprise visit by its prime minister that Washington said could help regional peace efforts.

Oman is offering ideas to help Israel and the Palestinians to come together but is not acting as mediator, Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, the sultanate’s minister responsible for foreign affairs, told a security summit in Bahrain.

"Israel is a state present in the region, and we all understand this," bin Alawi said.

"The world is also aware of this fact. Maybe it is time for Israel to be treated the same [as others states] and also bear the same obligations."

His comments followed a rare visit to Oman by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu which came days after Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas paid a three-day visit to the Gulf country. Both leaders met with Oman's Sultan Qaboos.

"We are not saying that the road is now easy and paved with flowers, but our priority is to put an end to the conflict and move to a new world," bin Alawi told the summit.

Oman is relying on the United States and efforts by President Donald Trump in working towards the "deal of the century" (Middle East peace), he added.

Bahrain's foreign minister Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa voiced support for Oman over the sultanate's role in trying to secure Israeli-Palestinian peace, while Saudi Arabia's foreign minister Adel al-Jubeir said the kingdom believes the key to normalising relations with Israel was the peace process.

The three-day summit was attended by Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. US&nbsp;Defence Secretary Jim Mattis, and his counterparts in Italy and Germany also participated, but Jordan's King Abdullah cancelled his appearance after a flood that hit the Dead Sea region killed 21 people.

Trump’s Middle East envoy Jason Greenblatt welcomed the "warming ties &amp; growing cooperation between our regional friends" in a tweet late on Friday.

"This is a helpful step for our peace efforts &amp; essential to create an atmosphere of stability, security &amp; prosperity between Israelis, Palestinians &amp; their neighbours. Looking forward to seeing more meetings like this!” Greenblatt said.

CURBING IRAN

Israel and some Gulf states share an interest in curbing Iran's influence in the region.

Oman has long been to the Middle East what neutral Switzerland is to global diplomacy. The country helped to mediate secret US-Iran talks in 2013 that led to the historic nuclear deal signed in Geneva two years later.

Earlier this year, bin Alawi visited Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque and Netanyahu has on several occasions hinted at warmer ties with Gulf states.

He told Israel's parliament last week that due to fears of a nuclear threat from Iran, "Israel and other Arab countries are closer than they ever were before."

Though uncommon, Israeli leaders have previously visited the Gulf state.

In 1996, the late Shimon Peres went to Oman and Qatar when he was prime minister and opened Israel trade representative offices in both Gulf countries.

His predecessor, the late Yitzhak Rabin, made the first trip to Oman in 1994.

On his visit on Friday, Netanyahu was accompanied by senior officials, including the head of the Mossad intelligence agency and his national security adviser.

Oman described Israel as an accepted Middle East state on Saturday, a day after hosting a surprise visit by its prime minister that Washington said could help regional peace efforts.

Oman described Israel as an accepted Middle East state on Saturday, a day after hosting a surprise visit by its prime minister that Washington said could help regional peace efforts. Oman is offering ideas to help Israel and the Palestinians to come together but is not acting as mediator, Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, the sultanate’s minister responsible for foreign affairs, told a security summit in Bahrain. "Israel is a state present in the region, and we all understand this," bin Alawi said. "The world is also aware of this fact. Maybe it is time for Israel to be treated the same [as others states] and also bear the same obligations." His comments followed a rare visit to Oman by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu which came days after Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas paid a three-day visit to the Gulf country. Both leaders met with Oman's Sultan Qaboos. "We are not saying that the road is now easy and paved with flowers, but our priority is to put an end to the conflict and move to a new world," bin Alawi told the summit. Oman is relying on the United States and efforts by President Donald Trump in working towards the "deal of the century" (Middle East peace), he added. Bahrain's foreign minister Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa voiced support for Oman over the sultanate's role in trying to secure Israeli-Palestinian peace, while Saudi Arabia's foreign minister Adel al-Jubeir said the kingdom believes the key to normalising relations with Israel was the peace process. The three-day summit was attended by Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis, and his counterparts in Italy and Germany also participated, but Jordan's King Abdullah cancelled his appearance after a flood that hit the Dead Sea region killed 21 people. Trump’s Middle East envoy Jason Greenblatt welcomed the "warming ties & growing cooperation between our regional friends" in a tweet late on Friday. "This is a helpful step for our peace efforts & essential to create an atmosphere of stability, security & prosperity between Israelis, Palestinians & their neighbours. Looking forward to seeing more meetings like this!” Greenblatt said. CURBING IRAN Israel and some Gulf states share an interest in curbing Iran's influence in the region. Oman has long been to the Middle East what neutral Switzerland is to global diplomacy. The country helped to mediate secret US-Iran talks in 2013 that led to the historic nuclear deal signed in Geneva two years later. Earlier this year, bin Alawi visited Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque and Netanyahu has on several occasions hinted at warmer ties with Gulf states. He told Israel's parliament last week that due to fears of a nuclear threat from Iran, "Israel and other Arab countries are closer than they ever were before." Though uncommon, Israeli leaders have previously visited the Gulf state. In 1996, the late Shimon Peres went to Oman and Qatar when he was prime minister and opened Israel trade representative offices in both Gulf countries. His predecessor, the late Yitzhak Rabin, made the first trip to Oman in 1994. On his visit on Friday, Netanyahu was accompanied by senior officials, including the head of the Mossad intelligence agency and his national security adviser.

Oman says time to accept Israel in region, offers help for peace

Israel will on Wednesday resume supplies of fuel to the Gaza Strip after a 12-day halt imposed over violent border clashes, the defence ministry said.

Israel suspended the desperately needed deliveries of Qatari-financed diesel on October 12, hours after Israeli troops shot dead five Palestinians who the army said broke through the border fence and attacked a military post inside Israel.

"In accordance with recommendations by security bodies it has been decided to resume the supply of 'Qatari fuel' from tomorrow," the ministry statement said on Tuesday night.&nbsp;

On Sunday, Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman ordered the reopening of Gaza's goods and pedestrian crossings into Israel after a four-day closure sparked by a Palestinian rocket attack into southern Israel.

His office cited "a decrease in the violent events in Gaza over the weekend and efforts Hamas made to restrain" border protests as grounds for the reopenings.

Near-daily protests along the Gaza border since March 30 against Israel's crippling 11-year blockade of the impoverished enclave have sparked repeated clashes with the army.

More than 200 Palestinians and one Israeli have been killed in the violence.

The fuel deal, brokered by the United Nations and backed by the United States, Israel and others, briefly brought thousands of litres of diesel into Gaza daily to boost the impoverished territory's&nbsp;electricity supply.

But the daily shipments to Hamas-ruled Gaza's only power station lasted merely for three days.

Under the limited agreement Qatar, a longtime Hamas backer, was to pay $60 million for fuel to be brought into Gaza over six months

Israel will on Wednesday resume supplies of fuel to the Gaza Strip after a 12-day halt imposed over violent border clashes, the defence ministry said. Israel suspended the desperately needed deliveries of Qatari-financed diesel on October 12, hours after Israeli troops shot dead five Palestinians who the army said broke through the border fence and attacked a military post inside Israel.

Israel will on Wednesday resume supplies of fuel to the Gaza Strip after a 12-day halt imposed over violent border clashes, the defence ministry said. Israel suspended the desperately needed deliveries of Qatari-financed diesel on October 12, hours after Israeli troops shot dead five Palestinians who the army said broke through the border fence and attacked a military post inside Israel. "In accordance with recommendations by security bodies it has been decided to resume the supply of 'Qatari fuel' from tomorrow," the ministry statement said on Tuesday night. On Sunday, Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman ordered the reopening of Gaza's goods and pedestrian crossings into Israel after a four-day closure sparked by a Palestinian rocket attack into southern Israel. His office cited "a decrease in the violent events in Gaza over the weekend and efforts Hamas made to restrain" border protests as grounds for the reopenings. Near-daily protests along the Gaza border since March 30 against Israel's crippling 11-year blockade of the impoverished enclave have sparked repeated clashes with the army. More than 200 Palestinians and one Israeli have been killed in the violence. The fuel deal, brokered by the United Nations and backed by the United States, Israel and others, briefly brought thousands of litres of diesel into Gaza daily to boost the impoverished territory's electricity supply. But the daily shipments to Hamas-ruled Gaza's only power station lasted merely for three days. Under the limited agreement Qatar, a longtime Hamas backer, was to pay $60 million for fuel to be brought into Gaza over six months

Israel to resume Gaza fuel flow Wednesday: Defence ministry

Israel ordered the country's goods and people border crossings with Gaza to be opened on Sunday, just four days after shuttering them following a Palestinian rocket attack that sparked retaliatory strikes.

"The decision comes after a decrease in the violent events in Gaza over the weekend and efforts (militant Islamist Gaza rulers) Hamas made to restrain" demonstrators, a statement from Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman office read.

On Wednesday, Lieberman had ordered the closure of the Kerem Shalom goods crossing and the Erez crossing for people, after a rocket from the Palestinian territory hit a home in southern Israel, prompting the Jewish state to strike 20 Hamas targets in Gaza.

Hamas disavowed the launch and said it was investigating the incident, as fears of a new war rose.

Near-daily protests along the border since March 30 against Israel's crippling 11-year blockade of the impoverished enclave have sparked repeated clashes with the army.

On Friday, thousands again gathered for protests in northern Gaza, but demonstrators largely remained at least 100 metres (yards) from the border.

Hamas officials were seen discouraging protesters from nearing the fence.

Israel had on Wednesday also suspended the delivery of fuel for the Palestinian territory's power plant that had been trucked daily into Gaza under a deal brokered by the United Nations.

"The decision on the renewal of the fuel from Qatar has been put off as for the time being, and will be examined in a number of days based on the events," the Sunday statement from Lieberman said.&nbsp;

Israel ordered the country's goods and people border crossings with Gaza to be opened on Sunday, just four days after shuttering them following a Palestinian rocket attack that sparked retaliatory strikes.

Israel ordered the country's goods and people border crossings with Gaza to be opened on Sunday, just four days after shuttering them following a Palestinian rocket attack that sparked retaliatory strikes. "The decision comes after a decrease in the violent events in Gaza over the weekend and efforts (militant Islamist Gaza rulers) Hamas made to restrain" demonstrators, a statement from Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman office read. On Wednesday, Lieberman had ordered the closure of the Kerem Shalom goods crossing and the Erez crossing for people, after a rocket from the Palestinian territory hit a home in southern Israel, prompting the Jewish state to strike 20 Hamas targets in Gaza. Hamas disavowed the launch and said it was investigating the incident, as fears of a new war rose. Near-daily protests along the border since March 30 against Israel's crippling 11-year blockade of the impoverished enclave have sparked repeated clashes with the army. On Friday, thousands again gathered for protests in northern Gaza, but demonstrators largely remained at least 100 metres (yards) from the border. Hamas officials were seen discouraging protesters from nearing the fence. Israel had on Wednesday also suspended the delivery of fuel for the Palestinian territory's power plant that had been trucked daily into Gaza under a deal brokered by the United Nations. "The decision on the renewal of the fuel from Qatar has been put off as for the time being, and will be examined in a number of days based on the events," the Sunday statement from Lieberman said.

Israel reopens people, goods crossings to Gaza: statement

An American student who was barred from entering Israel under a law against foreign activists who support boycotts of the state over its Palestinian policies was given permission to stay in the country by the Supreme Court on Thursday.

In its ruling, the court criticised Israeli authorities for denying entry to Lara Alqasem, 22, saying their decision gave "the unavoidable impression" that she was barred for her political opinions.

If so, the justices said, it represented "a radical and dangerous step that could lead to the crumbling of the foundations upon which Israel's democracy is built".

Alqasem was refused entry when she flew to Israel on a study visa on Oct. 2. Security officials cited her role as president of a small local chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine at the University of Florida.

Her case touched off a debate in Israel over whether democratic values had been compromised by a 2017 law that bars the entry of foreigners who publicly support boycotts over Israel's policies towards the Palestinians.

Thursday's ruling, seen by Reuters, overturned a lower court decision that had backed the decision by Israeli authorities.

Alqasem said she was releived by the court's decision and would speak more later. Her lawyers called the ruling "a victory for free speech, academic freedom, and the rule of law".

Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan, who had denied Alqasem entry, said the government would look into the implications of the ruling.

"We will examine the legal criteria in order to ensure that the original intent of the law is maintained," he said. "The principle that whoever acts to harm the State of Israel and its citizens should be refused entry must be preserved."

Members of Israel's right-wing government have long criticized the court for being, in their eyes, too liberal in its interventions regarding policy towards Palestinians.

The Supreme Court accepted Alqasem's lawyers’ argument that she had ceased her pro-boycott activity in April 2017, and noted that since then she had engaged in Holocaust studies and had been accepted to a post graduate programme at Jerusalem’s Hebrew University, which supported her petition.

"Since the petitioner's actions do not sufficiently warrant banning her entry to Israel, the unavoidable impression is that her political opinions were the reason behind the cancellation of the visa that was granted to her," the ruling said.

"If that is indeed the case, we are talking about a radical and dangerous step."

The court cited in its decision the Hebrew University's contention that barring the entry, at the airport, of a foreign student accepted into an international programme damaged the university's international ties.

However one justice wrote that if Alqasem "returns to her old ways" and promoted a boycott while she is in Israel, her stay could be cancelled and she could be expelled.

It was not immediately clear whether the Israeli authorities would appeal the ruling.

An American student who was barred from entering Israel under a law against foreign activists who support boycotts of the state over its Palestinian policies was given permission to stay in the country by the Supreme Court on Thursday.

An American student who was barred from entering Israel under a law against foreign activists who support boycotts of the state over its Palestinian policies was given permission to stay in the country by the Supreme Court on Thursday. In its ruling, the court criticised Israeli authorities for denying entry to Lara Alqasem, 22, saying their decision gave "the unavoidable impression" that she was barred for her political opinions. If so, the justices said, it represented "a radical and dangerous step that could lead to the crumbling of the foundations upon which Israel's democracy is built". Alqasem was refused entry when she flew to Israel on a study visa on Oct. 2. Security officials cited her role as president of a small local chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine at the University of Florida. Her case touched off a debate in Israel over whether democratic values had been compromised by a 2017 law that bars the entry of foreigners who publicly support boycotts over Israel's policies towards the Palestinians. Thursday's ruling, seen by Reuters, overturned a lower court decision that had backed the decision by Israeli authorities. Alqasem said she was releived by the court's decision and would speak more later. Her lawyers called the ruling "a victory for free speech, academic freedom, and the rule of law". Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan, who had denied Alqasem entry, said the government would look into the implications of the ruling. "We will examine the legal criteria in order to ensure that the original intent of the law is maintained," he said. "The principle that whoever acts to harm the State of Israel and its citizens should be refused entry must be preserved." Members of Israel's right-wing government have long criticized the court for being, in their eyes, too liberal in its interventions regarding policy towards Palestinians. The Supreme Court accepted Alqasem's lawyers’ argument that she had ceased her pro-boycott activity in April 2017, and noted that since then she had engaged in Holocaust studies and had been accepted to a post graduate programme at Jerusalem’s Hebrew University, which supported her petition. "Since the petitioner's actions do not sufficiently warrant banning her entry to Israel, the unavoidable impression is that her political opinions were the reason behind the cancellation of the visa that was granted to her," the ruling said. "If that is indeed the case, we are talking about a radical and dangerous step." The court cited in its decision the Hebrew University's contention that barring the entry, at the airport, of a foreign student accepted into an international programme damaged the university's international ties. However one justice wrote that if Alqasem "returns to her old ways" and promoted a boycott while she is in Israel, her stay could be cancelled and she could be expelled. It was not immediately clear whether the Israeli authorities would appeal the ruling.

US student in boycott case allowed to stay in Israel

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday threatened to inflict "very strong blows" on Hamas after fresh violence along the border with the Gaza Strip controlled by the Islamist group.

"Hamas has apparently not understood the message -- if these attacks do not stop, they will be stopped in another way, in the form of very, very strong blows", Netanyahu said during the weekly cabinet meeting.

Seven Palestinians were killed in clashes along the Gaza border on Friday and Israel suspended fuel deliveries, having accused Hamas of using demonstrations as cover for attacks against the Jewish state.&nbsp;

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday threatened to inflict "very strong blows" on Hamas after fresh violence along the border with the Gaza Strip controlled by the Islamist group.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday threatened to inflict "very strong blows" on Hamas after fresh violence along the border with the Gaza Strip controlled by the Islamist group. "Hamas has apparently not understood the message -- if these attacks do not stop, they will be stopped in another way, in the form of very, very strong blows", Netanyahu said during the weekly cabinet meeting. Seven Palestinians were killed in clashes along the Gaza border on Friday and Israel suspended fuel deliveries, having accused Hamas of using demonstrations as cover for attacks against the Jewish state.

Israel's Netanyahu threatens Hamas with 'very strong blows'

Israel fought back to beat Scotland 2-1 thanks to a late own goal from Kieran Tierney as the visitors finished with 10 men in an eventful Nations League game on Thursday.

Tierney sliced the ball into his own net after 75 minutes to complete the home side's comeback after they had conceded an early penalty in the League C, Group 1 clash.

Scotland lead the section on goal difference from Israel and Albania with the teams level on three points after two games.

Scotland went ahead in the 25th minute when Charlie Mulgrew sent goalkeeper Ariel Harush the wrong way with a penalty after midfielder Dor Peretz had barged Steven Naismith in the back.

The goal sparked Israel into life and their dominance paid off after the break when Peretz slotted an equaliser past keeper Allan McGregor in the 52nd to atone for his earlier error.

After Scotland defender John Souttar was sent off for a second yellow card in the 61st, Israel had a host of chances but only took the lead when Tierney put through his own goal.

It was Israel's first win under new Austrian coach Andreas Herzog. Their only other victory in almost a year was 3-0 over Albania in a meaningless World Cup qualifier last November.

Israel face Albania in Beersheba on Sunday, having lost 1-0 to them in their opening Nations League game on Herzog's debut in September before a 3-0 friendly loss to Northern Ireland.

Israel fought back to beat Scotland 2-1 thanks to a late own goal from Kieran Tierney as the visitors finished with 10 men in an eventful Nations League game on Thursday.

Israel fought back to beat Scotland 2-1 thanks to a late own goal from Kieran Tierney as the visitors finished with 10 men in an eventful Nations League game on Thursday. Tierney sliced the ball into his own net after 75 minutes to complete the home side's comeback after they had conceded an early penalty in the League C, Group 1 clash. Scotland lead the section on goal difference from Israel and Albania with the teams level on three points after two games. Scotland went ahead in the 25th minute when Charlie Mulgrew sent goalkeeper Ariel Harush the wrong way with a penalty after midfielder Dor Peretz had barged Steven Naismith in the back. The goal sparked Israel into life and their dominance paid off after the break when Peretz slotted an equaliser past keeper Allan McGregor in the 52nd to atone for his earlier error. After Scotland defender John Souttar was sent off for a second yellow card in the 61st, Israel had a host of chances but only took the lead when Tierney put through his own goal. It was Israel's first win under new Austrian coach Andreas Herzog. Their only other victory in almost a year was 3-0 over Albania in a meaningless World Cup qualifier last November. Israel face Albania in Beersheba on Sunday, having lost 1-0 to them in their opening Nations League game on Herzog's debut in September before a 3-0 friendly loss to Northern Ireland.

Israel beat 10-man Scotland thanks to Tierney own goal

Five Palestinians were killed in new clashes with Israeli forces along the Gaza border Friday, the health ministry in the Hamas-run enclave said.

The ministry did not immediately identify all the victims, but said they had been killed as thousands of protestors approached the heavily-guarded Israeli border.

Five Palestinians were killed in new clashes with Israeli forces along the Gaza border Friday, the health ministry in the Hamas-run enclave said. The ministry did not immediately identify all the victims, but said they had been killed as thousands of protestors approached the heavily-guarded Israeli border.

Five Palestinians killed in clashes on Israel border: Gaza ministry

Israeli forces on Thursday (October 11) destroyed a cross-border attack tunnel that ran from Gaza into Israel dug by Hamas, the Islamist group that controls the Palestinian enclave, the military and defence minister said.

"In the past few hours our forces have neutralized a terrorist attack tunnel belonging to the Hamas terrorist organization, which penetrated Israel from the central Gaza Strip," a military statement said.

There was no immediate comment from Hamas, which has fought three wars with Israel in the past decade.

Israeli military spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Jonathan Conricus told reporters on a conference call that the tunnel, the 15th detected and destroyed in the last year, ran 200 metres into Israeli territory.

Palestinian gunmen used tunnels to blindside Israeli forces during the 2014 Gaza war. Israel has since been developing detection technologies and laying down an underground frontier wall which, it says, will end the Gaza tunnel threat by 2019.

Israeli forces on Thursday (October 11) destroyed a cross-border attack tunnel that ran from Gaza into Israel dug by Hamas, the Islamist group that controls the Palestinian enclave, the military and defence minister said.

Israeli forces on Thursday (October 11) destroyed a cross-border attack tunnel that ran from Gaza into Israel dug by Hamas, the Islamist group that controls the Palestinian enclave, the military and defence minister said. "In the past few hours our forces have neutralized a terrorist attack tunnel belonging to the Hamas terrorist organization, which penetrated Israel from the central Gaza Strip," a military statement said. There was no immediate comment from Hamas, which has fought three wars with Israel in the past decade. Israeli military spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Jonathan Conricus told reporters on a conference call that the tunnel, the 15th detected and destroyed in the last year, ran 200 metres into Israeli territory. Palestinian gunmen used tunnels to blindside Israeli forces during the 2014 Gaza war. Israel has since been developing detection technologies and laying down an underground frontier wall which, it says, will end the Gaza tunnel threat by 2019.

Watch: Israel says it has destroyed a Gaza attack tunnel

The story of Golan Heights- WION ground report

Israeli security forces raided the village of a Palestinian suspected of shooting two Israelis dead, the army said Monday, making arrests while the assailant himself remained at large.

Ashraf Naalwa, 23, from the northern West Bank village of Shuweika, has been named by the Israeli army as the Palestinian behind Sunday's attack in the occupied West Bank industrial area of Barkan where two Israelis were killed and a third wounded.

Soldiers, as well as police and Shin Bet internal security officers "operated in the village of Shuweika, north of Tulkarm, from which the terrorist originated," the military said.

It said security forces "arrested" an unspecified number of people "suspected of aiding the terrorist" while a manhunt for the gunman was still underway.

A spokesman for the Shin Bet said they had arrested Naalwa's brother, while his sister was "detained, questioned and released", declining to provide further details.

Naalwa was employed at the same plant in the northern West Bank site as his two victims -- Kim Levengrond Yehezkel, 28, and Ziv Hagbi, 34.

The industrial zone is located next to the Israeli settlement Barkan and near the settlement of Ariel in the north of the West Bank.

Palestinians work side by side with Israelis in the industrial zone.&nbsp;

A third woman also shot in the attack was hospitalised in stable condition.

Levengrond Yehezkel, who was buried late Sunday, had been bound to a chair by Naalwa with cable ties before being shot, according to her father.

Naalwa used a homemade gun, known locally as a "Carlo", according to the army, in what security forces believe was a "lone-wolf attack," meaning he was not part of a militant organisation or acting on its behalf.

The army called the shooting a "terrorist attack", adding however that other unspecified factors were involved.

A wave of Palestinian attacks against Israelis broke out in 2015, but they have since become sporadic. 
&nbsp;

Israeli security forces raided the village of a Palestinian suspected of shooting two Israelis dead, the army said Monday, making arrests while the assailant himself remained at large.

Israeli security forces raided the village of a Palestinian suspected of shooting two Israelis dead, the army said Monday, making arrests while the assailant himself remained at large. Ashraf Naalwa, 23, from the northern West Bank village of Shuweika, has been named by the Israeli army as the Palestinian behind Sunday's attack in the occupied West Bank industrial area of Barkan where two Israelis were killed and a third wounded. Soldiers, as well as police and Shin Bet internal security officers "operated in the village of Shuweika, north of Tulkarm, from which the terrorist originated," the military said. It said security forces "arrested" an unspecified number of people "suspected of aiding the terrorist" while a manhunt for the gunman was still underway. A spokesman for the Shin Bet said they had arrested Naalwa's brother, while his sister was "detained, questioned and released", declining to provide further details. Naalwa was employed at the same plant in the northern West Bank site as his two victims -- Kim Levengrond Yehezkel, 28, and Ziv Hagbi, 34. The industrial zone is located next to the Israeli settlement Barkan and near the settlement of Ariel in the north of the West Bank. Palestinians work side by side with Israelis in the industrial zone. A third woman also shot in the attack was hospitalised in stable condition. Levengrond Yehezkel, who was buried late Sunday, had been bound to a chair by Naalwa with cable ties before being shot, according to her father. Naalwa used a homemade gun, known locally as a "Carlo", according to the army, in what security forces believe was a "lone-wolf attack," meaning he was not part of a militant organisation or acting on its behalf. The army called the shooting a "terrorist attack", adding however that other unspecified factors were involved. A wave of Palestinian attacks against Israelis broke out in 2015, but they have since become sporadic.

Israel raids Palestinian village after deadly shooting

Israel warns Gaza's Hamas rulers 

Israeli police questioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the 12th time on Friday in connection with a long-running corruption investigation.

Investigators questioned Netanyahu's for several hours at his official residence in Jerusalem. Army Radio and other news outlets said questioning focused on two cases in which police have already recommended indictments against him.

One case deals with gifts allegedly given to Netanyahu and his family, and the other with claims he discussed securing better coverage in Yedioth Ahronoth, one of Israel's largest newspapers, in return for curbs on rival daily Israel Hayom.

No charges have been brought against the Israeli leader, who denies any wrongdoing and has called the allegations baseless.

It will be up to Israel's attorney general to decide whether to file charges. Partners in Netanyahu’s governing coalition have stood by him, saying they are awaiting the attorney general's next moves.

The police said in a statement that Friday's questioning lasted "a number of hours" but provided no details.

A spokesman for Netanyahu said the prime minister "answered every question with full confidence, knowing clearly that nothing happened and therefore nothing will come of it."

Netanyahu has also been questioned in a third case in which police allege the owners of Israel’s largest telecom company provided favourable coverage of him and his wife on a news website they controlled in return for special treatment from communications regulators.

Israeli police questioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the 12th time on Friday in connection with a long-running corruption investigation. Investigators questioned Netanyahu's for several hours at his official residence in Jerusalem.

Israeli police questioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the 12th time on Friday in connection with a long-running corruption investigation. Investigators questioned Netanyahu's for several hours at his official residence in Jerusalem. Army Radio and other news outlets said questioning focused on two cases in which police have already recommended indictments against him. One case deals with gifts allegedly given to Netanyahu and his family, and the other with claims he discussed securing better coverage in Yedioth Ahronoth, one of Israel's largest newspapers, in return for curbs on rival daily Israel Hayom. No charges have been brought against the Israeli leader, who denies any wrongdoing and has called the allegations baseless. It will be up to Israel's attorney general to decide whether to file charges. Partners in Netanyahu’s governing coalition have stood by him, saying they are awaiting the attorney general's next moves. The police said in a statement that Friday's questioning lasted "a number of hours" but provided no details. A spokesman for Netanyahu said the prime minister "answered every question with full confidence, knowing clearly that nothing happened and therefore nothing will come of it." Netanyahu has also been questioned in a third case in which police allege the owners of Israel’s largest telecom company provided favourable coverage of him and his wife on a news website they controlled in return for special treatment from communications regulators.

Israel's prime minister questioned again in corruption probe

Israel on Sunday released a French-Palestinian lawyer held without charge for the past 13 months over unspecified allegations, his lawyer said.

Salah Hamouri, 33, was freed at Jerusalem police headquarters after being brought from his cell in a prison in southern Israel's Negev desert.

Attorney Mahmud Hassan told AFP that under the terms of his release Hamouri was forbidden to take part in any celebrations, demonstration or protests for a period of 30 days and required to post a bond of 3,000 shekels ($825, 700 euros).

He was arrested at his home in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem on August 23, 2017 and subsequently interned under what Israel calls administrative detention, which allows detention without trial for renewable six-month periods.

Neither suspects nor their lawyers are informed of the reasons for arrests and Israel's Shin Bet domestic intelligence agency had no immediate comment when asked by AFP for the reasons behind Hamouri's detention.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian had discussed his case several times with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to the French foreign ministry.

Israel says administrative detention is intended to allow authorities to hold suspects while continuing to gather evidence, with the aim of preventing attacks or security offences in the meantime.

But the system has been criticised by Palestinians, human rights groups and members of the international community who say Israel abuses the measure.

Hamouri was born in East Jerusalem to a French mother and a Palestinian father.

Palestinian prisoner support NGO Addameer, which employed him as a field researcher, said he was first arrested and placed under administrative detention in 2001, aged 16.

He was interned without trial for another five-month stretch in 2004, it said, then arrested again in 2005.

Following that arrest, he was tried and convicted by an Israeli court on charges of plotting to assassinate Ovadia Yossef, a prominent Israeli rabbi and spiritual leader of the ultra-Orthodox Shas political party.

Hamouri was released in December 2011 as part of a swap of over 1,000 Palestinian prisoners for Gilad Shalit, a soldier held captive in Gaza for more than five years.

He has always maintained his innocence.

Addameer says more than 5,500 Palestinians are currently held in Israeli jails, including approximately 450 in administrative detention.

Israel on Sunday released a French-Palestinian lawyer held without charge for the past 13 months over unspecified allegations, his lawyer said. Salah Hamouri, 33, was freed at Jerusalem police headquarters after being brought from his cell in a prison in southern Israel's Negev desert.

Israel on Sunday released a French-Palestinian lawyer held without charge for the past 13 months over unspecified allegations, his lawyer said. Salah Hamouri, 33, was freed at Jerusalem police headquarters after being brought from his cell in a prison in southern Israel's Negev desert. Attorney Mahmud Hassan told AFP that under the terms of his release Hamouri was forbidden to take part in any celebrations, demonstration or protests for a period of 30 days and required to post a bond of 3,000 shekels ($825, 700 euros). He was arrested at his home in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem on August 23, 2017 and subsequently interned under what Israel calls administrative detention, which allows detention without trial for renewable six-month periods. Neither suspects nor their lawyers are informed of the reasons for arrests and Israel's Shin Bet domestic intelligence agency had no immediate comment when asked by AFP for the reasons behind Hamouri's detention. French President Emmanuel Macron and Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian had discussed his case several times with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to the French foreign ministry. Israel says administrative detention is intended to allow authorities to hold suspects while continuing to gather evidence, with the aim of preventing attacks or security offences in the meantime. But the system has been criticised by Palestinians, human rights groups and members of the international community who say Israel abuses the measure. Hamouri was born in East Jerusalem to a French mother and a Palestinian father. Palestinian prisoner support NGO Addameer, which employed him as a field researcher, said he was first arrested and placed under administrative detention in 2001, aged 16. He was interned without trial for another five-month stretch in 2004, it said, then arrested again in 2005. Following that arrest, he was tried and convicted by an Israeli court on charges of plotting to assassinate Ovadia Yossef, a prominent Israeli rabbi and spiritual leader of the ultra-Orthodox Shas political party. Hamouri was released in December 2011 as part of a swap of over 1,000 Palestinian prisoners for Gilad Shalit, a soldier held captive in Gaza for more than five years. He has always maintained his innocence. Addameer says more than 5,500 Palestinians are currently held in Israeli jails, including approximately 450 in administrative detention.

Israel frees French-Palestinian after 13 months without trial

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday Israel would continue its military operations in Syria, after Russia announced it would supply an advanced anti-aircraft system to its Syrian ally.

"We will continue to act to prevent Iranian military entrenchment in Syria and we will continue the military coordination between the IDF (Israel Defence Forces) and the Russian army," Netanyahu told reporters before boarding a flight to New York, where he will address the UN General Assembly.

Russia said on Monday it would supply an S-300 surface-to-air missile system to Syria in two weeks despite strong Israeli objections, a week after Moscow accused Israel of indirectly causing the downing of a Russian military jet in Syria.

Russia, which fights in Syria to support the government against rebels and militants, has said Syrian anti-aircraft batteries shot its IL-20 surveillance plane down by mistake shortly after Israeli jets hit a nearby target.

Moscow accused Israel of creating dangerous conditions that caused the incident.

Israel, which has carried out air strikes in Syria many times during the civil war, said after the incident it would work to improve "deconfliction" of its missions with Russian forces, but would not halt them.

Netanyahu spoke by telephone with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday. In his remarks on Tuesday, Netanyahu said he had agreed with Putin "that the working teams from the IDF and the Russian army will meet soon".

The Israeli leader made the remarks after convening his security cabinet to discuss the tensions with Moscow.

"Over the past three years, Israel has been highly successful in preventing the Iranian military entrenchment in Syria and Iranian attempts to transfer lethal weaponry to Hezbollah in Lebanon," Netanyahu said.

But he said there had been occasions when things had not gone smoothly, calling Syria's downing of the Russian plane "tragic".

Israel has long lobbied Moscow not to provide the S-300 to Syria, fearing this would hinder its aerial capability to strike the forces of Iran and its Hezbollah allies in Syria.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday Israel would continue its military operations in Syria, after Russia announced it would supply an advanced anti-aircraft system to its Syrian ally.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday Israel would continue its military operations in Syria, after Russia announced it would supply an advanced anti-aircraft system to its Syrian ally. "We will continue to act to prevent Iranian military entrenchment in Syria and we will continue the military coordination between the IDF (Israel Defence Forces) and the Russian army," Netanyahu told reporters before boarding a flight to New York, where he will address the UN General Assembly. Russia said on Monday it would supply an S-300 surface-to-air missile system to Syria in two weeks despite strong Israeli objections, a week after Moscow accused Israel of indirectly causing the downing of a Russian military jet in Syria. Russia, which fights in Syria to support the government against rebels and militants, has said Syrian anti-aircraft batteries shot its IL-20 surveillance plane down by mistake shortly after Israeli jets hit a nearby target. Moscow accused Israel of creating dangerous conditions that caused the incident. Israel, which has carried out air strikes in Syria many times during the civil war, said after the incident it would work to improve "deconfliction" of its missions with Russian forces, but would not halt them. Netanyahu spoke by telephone with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday. In his remarks on Tuesday, Netanyahu said he had agreed with Putin "that the working teams from the IDF and the Russian army will meet soon". The Israeli leader made the remarks after convening his security cabinet to discuss the tensions with Moscow. "Over the past three years, Israel has been highly successful in preventing the Iranian military entrenchment in Syria and Iranian attempts to transfer lethal weaponry to Hezbollah in Lebanon," Netanyahu said. But he said there had been occasions when things had not gone smoothly, calling Syria's downing of the Russian plane "tragic". Israel has long lobbied Moscow not to provide the S-300 to Syria, fearing this would hinder its aerial capability to strike the forces of Iran and its Hezbollah allies in Syria.

Netanyahu says Israel will continue operations in Syria against Iran

The United Nations General Assembly will vote Wednesday on condemning Israel for Palestinian deaths in Gaza in a resolution fiercely opposed by the United States, which wants Hamas to face condemnation.&nbsp

US Ambassador Nikki Haley slammed the Arab-backed measure as "fundamentally imbalanced" for its failure to mention Hamas and has proposed an amendment that condemns the Palestinian militant group.

"Any resolution focused on the protection of civilians in Gaza must recognize the destabilizing and reckless actions of Hamas, which endanger the lives and livelihoods of innocent civilians," Haley wrote in a letter sent to fellow ambassadors on the eve of the vote.

At least 129 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire during protests near the border with Gaza that began at the end of March.

The Arab-drafted text condemns Israel's use of "excessive, disproportionate and indiscriminate force" against Palestinian civilians and calls for protection measures for Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

The 193-nation assembly will vote first on the US-drafted amendment condemning Hamas for "inciting violence" along the border with Gaza before the vote on the resolution.&nbsp

Diplomats expect the US amendment to fail and the Arab-backed resolution to be adopted, but it remains unclear how many votes it will garner in the face of strong US opposition.

Arab countries backing the measure turned to the General Assembly after the United States used its veto in the Security Council to block the resolution on June 1.

The text was put forward by Algeria and Turkey on behalf of the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

US Ambassador Nikki Haley slammed the Arab-backed measure as 'fundamentally imbalanced' for its failure to mention Hamas and has proposed an amendment that condemns the Palestinian militant group

The United Nations General Assembly will vote Wednesday on condemning Israel for Palestinian deaths in Gaza in a resolution fiercely opposed by the United States, which wants Hamas to face condemnation. US Ambassador Nikki Haley slammed the Arab-backed measure as "fundamentally imbalanced" for its failure to mention Hamas and has proposed an amendment that condemns the Palestinian militant group. "Any resolution focused on the protection of civilians in Gaza must recognize the destabilizing and reckless actions of Hamas, which endanger the lives and livelihoods of innocent civilians," Haley wrote in a letter sent to fellow ambassadors on the eve of the vote. At least 129 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire during protests near the border with Gaza that began at the end of March. The Arab-drafted text condemns Israel's use of "excessive, disproportionate and indiscriminate force" against Palestinian civilians and calls for protection measures for Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. The 193-nation assembly will vote first on the US-drafted amendment condemning Hamas for "inciting violence" along the border with Gaza before the vote on the resolution. Diplomats expect the US amendment to fail and the Arab-backed resolution to be adopted, but it remains unclear how many votes it will garner in the face of strong US opposition. Arab countries backing the measure turned to the General Assembly after the United States used its veto in the Security Council to block the resolution on June 1. The text was put forward by Algeria and Turkey on behalf of the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

UN votes on condemning Israel over Gaza violence

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