Tensions escalate in the Israel-Gaza conflict as large explosions are reported following an IDF airstrike on a community kitchen in Gaza. Casualties are being assessed as the humanitarian impact draws global concern.

Israel-Gaza War: Large explosions heard as IDF strikes Gaza's community kitchen

In a major escalation, Israel conducted a bombing near the presidential palace in Damascus, underscoring its opposition to the Islamist-led Syrian authorities and signalling its commitment to supporting the Druze minority in Syria. Following the December overthrow of President Assad, Israel has intensified military operations across the country, emphasising the need for a decentralised and isolated Syria amidst growing regional instability.

Israel strikes near Syrian presidential palace amid sectarian violence

Several people from the Druze community and troops of the new Syrian regime were killed this week. Israel has stepped into this conflict. Israel says it wants to shield the Druze community. In our top story, we ask why Israel is stepping in, and why it is threatening to bomb Syria.

Israel bombs Syria over Druze killings

A large wildfire broke out in Israel during its Memorial Day. As rescue teams try to douse the fire, Israel has declared it a national emergency.

Blame-game over Israel blaze | Israel wildfire

A ship carrying humanitarian aid and activists caught fire and issued an SOS, however, organisers claimed it had been bombed by drones and disabled while it was on the coast of Malta in international waters on Friday (May 2).&nbsp;
A Freedom Flotilla Coalition ship was attacked at the front of an unarmed civilian vessel twice, the group said.&nbsp;
&ldquo;At 00:23 Maltese time, the Conscience, a Freedom Flotilla Coalition ship came under direct attack in international waters,&rdquo; the group said in a statement.
Blaming Israel for it, the group added, &ldquo;Armed drones attacked the front of an unarmed civilian vessel twice, causing a fire and a substantial breach in the hull."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-intercepts-missile-fired-from-yemen-9024306">Israel says intercepts missile fired from Yemen</a>
&ldquo;There is a hole in the vessel right now and the ship is sinking,&rdquo; Yasemin Acar, the coalition&rsquo;s press officer, told CNN by phone from Malta on Friday morning.
However, Israel has not commented on this so far.&nbsp;
The strike targeted the boat's generator, which left the boat without power and at risk of sinking.&nbsp;
WATCH : <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-netanyahu-vows-to-achieve-victory-in-gaza-war-promises-to-bring-hostages-back-9019916">Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu vows to achieve victory in Gaza war, promises to bring hostages back</a>
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition posted images and videos on social media, showing a fierce blaze on board the ship and explosions.&nbsp;
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BREAKING: At 00:23 Maltese time, a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreedomFlotilla?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreedomFlotilla</a> ship was subjected to a drone attack. The front of the vessel was targeted twice, resulting in a fire and a breach in the hull. The ship is currently located in international waters near <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Malta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Malta</a>. An <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SOS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SOS</a> distress signal was sent. <a href="https://t.co/J6oEQafuOb">pic.twitter.com/J6oEQafuOb</a>
&mdash; Freedom Flotilla Coalition (@GazaFFlotilla) <a href="https://twitter.com/GazaFFlotilla/status/1918131538794864916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
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A ship carrying humanitarian aid and activists for Gaza, operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was bombed by suspected Israeli drones in international waters near Malta early Friday. The Maltese government confirmed all 16 people on board&mdash;12 crew members and four&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/huGYh92GlP">pic.twitter.com/huGYh92GlP</a>
&mdash; Intel Tower🗽 (@inteltower) <a href="https://twitter.com/inteltower/status/1918247207914095078?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
The Armed Forces of Malta confirmed there was a fire on a ship that was later extinguished. &ldquo;We are monitoring the situation closely,&rdquo; a spokesperson told CNN, adding that there were no injuries onboard.
The Maltese government confirmed that 12 crew members and four civilians are safe. "The vessel had 12 crew members on board and four civilian passengers; no casualties were reported,&rdquo; the statement said, adding that a nearby tug had been directed to aid the vessel.
According to the group, activists from 21 countries were on board on a "mission to challenge" Israel's "illegal and deadly siege of Gaza", and to deliver life saving aid to them.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-announce-336-million-in-humanitarian-aid-for-palestinians-in-gaza-west-bank-763317">US to announce $336 million in humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza, West Bank</a>
"Israeli ambassadors must be summoned and answer to violations of international law, including the ongoing blockade and the bombing of our civilian vessel in international waters," the statement read.
Moreover, FFC told CNN that climate activist Greta Thunberg and retired US Army Colonel Mary Ann Wright were among those who were expected the board vessel in Malta, however, were not onboard at the time of the fire.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Volunteers from over 21 countries traveled to Malta to board the mission to Gaza, including prominent figures,&rdquo; FFC said.&nbsp;
Two months back, as the Israel-Gaza war continued, Israel imposed a tight blockade on Gaza, with no food allowed to be sent there, no fuel, medicine or other items in the region.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-pics-national-emergency-declared-in-israel-as-wildfires-threaten-jerusalem-9022661">In Pics | National emergency declared in Israel as wildfires threaten Jerusalem</a>

Blaming Israel for it, the group added, “Armed drones attacked the front of an unarmed civilian vessel twice, causing a fire and a substantial breach in the hull." world

A ship carrying humanitarian aid and activists caught fire and issued an SOS, however, organisers claimed it had been bombed by drones and disabled while it was on the coast of Malta in international waters on Friday (May 2). A Freedom Flotilla Coalition ship was attacked at the front of an unarmed civilian vessel twice, the group said. “At 00:23 Maltese time, the Conscience, a Freedom Flotilla Coalition ship came under direct attack in international waters,” the group said in a statement. Blaming Israel for it, the group added, “Armed drones attacked the front of an unarmed civilian vessel twice, causing a fire and a substantial breach in the hull." Also read: Israel says intercepts missile fired from Yemen “There is a hole in the vessel right now and the ship is sinking,” Yasemin Acar, the coalition’s press officer, told CNN by phone from Malta on Friday morning. However, Israel has not commented on this so far. The strike targeted the boat's generator, which left the boat without power and at risk of sinking. WATCH : Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu vows to achieve victory in Gaza war, promises to bring hostages back The Freedom Flotilla Coalition posted images and videos on social media, showing a fierce blaze on board the ship and explosions. BREAKING: At 00:23 Maltese time, a #FreedomFlotilla ship was subjected to a drone attack. The front of the vessel was targeted twice, resulting in a fire and a breach in the hull. The ship is currently located in international waters near #Malta. An #SOS distress signal was sent. pic.twitter.com/J6oEQafuOb — Freedom Flotilla Coalition (@GazaFFlotilla) May 2, 2025 A ship carrying humanitarian aid and activists for Gaza, operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was bombed by suspected Israeli drones in international waters near Malta early Friday. The Maltese government confirmed all 16 people on board—12 crew members and four… pic.twitter.com/huGYh92GlP — Intel Tower🗽 (@inteltower) May 2, 2025 The Armed Forces of Malta confirmed there was a fire on a ship that was later extinguished. “We are monitoring the situation closely,” a spokesperson told CNN, adding that there were no injuries onboard. The Maltese government confirmed that 12 crew members and four civilians are safe. "The vessel had 12 crew members on board and four civilian passengers; no casualties were reported,” the statement said, adding that a nearby tug had been directed to aid the vessel. According to the group, activists from 21 countries were on board on a "mission to challenge" Israel's "illegal and deadly siege of Gaza", and to deliver life saving aid to them. Also read: US to announce $336 million in humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza, West Bank "Israeli ambassadors must be summoned and answer to violations of international law, including the ongoing blockade and the bombing of our civilian vessel in international waters," the statement read. Moreover, FFC told CNN that climate activist Greta Thunberg and retired US Army Colonel Mary Ann Wright were among those who were expected the board vessel in Malta, however, were not onboard at the time of the fire. “Volunteers from over 21 countries traveled to Malta to board the mission to Gaza, including prominent figures,” FFC said. Two months back, as the Israel-Gaza war continued, Israel imposed a tight blockade on Gaza, with no food allowed to be sent there, no fuel, medicine or other items in the region. Also read: In Pics | National emergency declared in Israel as wildfires threaten Jerusalem

Is Israel to blame? Gaza-bound ship carrying aid, activists, bombed by drones in international waters | Video

The Israeli military was seen at a post along the Israeli-Syrian border in the occupied Golan Heights on Thursday (May 1), a day after Israel said it had carried out a strike in Syria against "extremists" who attacked members of the Druze community and promised to protect the minority group as sectarian violence spread near Damascus.

Israel-Syria: Israeli soldiers seen on border with Syria a day after strike

#Gravitas Lebanon and Israel are claiming that more than 90% of Hezbollah's infrastructure in Southern Lebanon has been dismantled.

Lebanon dismantles Hezbollah’s power base along Israeli border

#GRAVITAS | Raging wildfires tearing through parts of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Forcing evacuation of communities, at least 13 people have been injured. The situation up until Wednesday looked grim with the fires spreading quickly and inching towards the city. However, major bush fires have been largely brought under control. Watch this video to find out more.

Israel battles its 'largest' wildfires in a decade

As massive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wildfires">wildfires</a>&nbsp;swept through Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a "national emergency", and warned that the wildfires near Jerusalem could reach the city.
Hundreds of people were forced to flee their homes as the firefights rushed to control the wildfires.&nbsp;
Jerusalem&rsquo;s district fire department commander Shmulik Friedman said that this is "perhaps the largest fire ever in the country."&nbsp;
Moreover, several people have been injured, and as the concerns get severe, the military has been deployed in the region.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-massive-sandstorm-hits-in-israei-amid-raging-jerusalem-wildfires-9022081">WATCH | Massive sandstorm hits IsraeI amid raging Jerusalem wildfires</a>
Israel's Magen David Adom rescue agency warned that hundreds of civilians were at risk from the worst brushfires in years. Notably, the alert level had been raised to the highest tier.
<h2>What caused such massive wildfires?&nbsp;</h2>
Israel National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir pointed that arson could be behind the fires.&nbsp;
While police said that he arrested a resident of east Jerusalem who was caught "attempting to set fire to a field in the southern part of the city."&nbsp;
Ben Gvir further warned that the police would arrest anyone "involved in arson terror".&nbsp;
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wildfires-rage-in-central-israel-pm-netanyahu-visits-emergency-headquarters-8996875">Wildfires rage in central Israel; PM Netanyahu visits emergency headquarters</a>
Later, Israeli PM Netanyahu announced that 18 people had been arrested on suspicion of starting fires outside Jerusalem, while one person was allegedly caught in the act of arson.&nbsp;
"Not a simple thing," Netanyahu said, adding, "There is harm to nature and also harm to people, and we are holding 18 people at the moment who are suspected of arson, one of whom was caught in the act."&nbsp;
&ldquo;We are now in a national emergency, not just a local one. The priority right now is defending Jerusalem," he said.&nbsp;
A man from Jerusalem&rsquo;s Umm Tuba was reportedly caught with a lighter, cotton wool, and other flammable materials after police received a tip-off.
Israel President Isaac Herzog said the wildfires were "part of a climate crisis that we must not ignore."&nbsp;
Israel&rsquo;s firefighting service said 163 ground crews and 12 aircraft were working to contain the flames.&nbsp;
Moreover, military planes have also dropped hundreds of tonnes of retardant to stop the spread of the fires.&nbsp;
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-strikes-al-mawasi-camp-netanyahu-vows-to-continue-gaza-operation-9016646">Israel strikes Al-Mawasi camp: Netanyahu vows to continue Gaza operation</a>

Netanyahu announced that 18 people had been arrested on suspicion of starting fires outside Jerusalem, while one person was allegedly caught in the act of arson. WORLD

As massive wildfires swept through Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a "national emergency", and warned that the wildfires near Jerusalem could reach the city. Hundreds of people were forced to flee their homes as the firefights rushed to control the wildfires. Jerusalem’s district fire department commander Shmulik Friedman said that this is "perhaps the largest fire ever in the country." Moreover, several people have been injured, and as the concerns get severe, the military has been deployed in the region. Also read: WATCH | Massive sandstorm hits IsraeI amid raging Jerusalem wildfires Israel's Magen David Adom rescue agency warned that hundreds of civilians were at risk from the worst brushfires in years. Notably, the alert level had been raised to the highest tier. What caused such massive wildfires? Israel National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir pointed that arson could be behind the fires. While police said that he arrested a resident of east Jerusalem who was caught "attempting to set fire to a field in the southern part of the city." Ben Gvir further warned that the police would arrest anyone "involved in arson terror". WATCH | Wildfires rage in central Israel; PM Netanyahu visits emergency headquarters Later, Israeli PM Netanyahu announced that 18 people had been arrested on suspicion of starting fires outside Jerusalem, while one person was allegedly caught in the act of arson. "Not a simple thing," Netanyahu said, adding, "There is harm to nature and also harm to people, and we are holding 18 people at the moment who are suspected of arson, one of whom was caught in the act." “We are now in a national emergency, not just a local one. The priority right now is defending Jerusalem," he said. A man from Jerusalem’s Umm Tuba was reportedly caught with a lighter, cotton wool, and other flammable materials after police received a tip-off. Israel President Isaac Herzog said the wildfires were "part of a climate crisis that we must not ignore." Israel’s firefighting service said 163 ground crews and 12 aircraft were working to contain the flames. Moreover, military planes have also dropped hundreds of tonnes of retardant to stop the spread of the fires. WATCH | Israel strikes Al-Mawasi camp: Netanyahu vows to continue Gaza operation

'Perhaps largest ever': What 'possibly' caused raging wildfires in Israel, causing national emergency

Israel witnessed massive sandstorms that severely reduced visibility in parts of the south, amid intensifying wildfires raging in the middle of the country. Social media users have shared video clips of the powerful sandstorm sweeping through Beersheba in the Negev Desert in southern Israel.&nbsp;
Read More |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-support-indias-right-of-self-defence-says-israel-ambassador-reuven-azar-9012679">We support India's right of self-defence says Israel Ambassador Reuven Azar</a>
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BREAKING: 🇮🇱🔥 If fire wasn&rsquo;t enough, a Massive Sandstorm has hit Israel. God&rsquo;s wrath is glorious. <a href="https://t.co/KSMZmfclBl">pic.twitter.com/KSMZmfclBl</a>
&mdash; ADAM (@AdameMedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdameMedia/status/1917712477187383515?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2025</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-live-updates-indian-army-pakistan-army-pm-modi-subrahmanyam-jaishankar-shehbaz-sharif-9020474">Pahalgam Terror Attack LIVE: India retaliates to Pakistan Army's seventh consecutive LoC ceasefire violation</a>
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BREAKING: 🇮🇱🔥 Israeli media says today's fires are the LARGEST in "Israel's history." The highway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv has been closed. So far, nine settlements have been evacuated. This is what god&rsquo;s wrath looks like. <a href="https://t.co/cCRlWamrlm">pic.twitter.com/cCRlWamrlm</a>
&mdash; ADAM (@AdameMedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdameMedia/status/1917663604729426261?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2 class="n0jPhd ynAwRc tNxQIb nDgy9d" aria-level="4" role="heading">Israel continues to battle raging wildfires</h2>
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This comes after Israeli firefighting teams are battling bushfires that threatened Jerusalem for a second day on Thursday, with police reporting the reopening of several major roads that had been closed. The fires broke out on Wednesday along the main Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway, prompting police to shut roads and evacuate thousands of residents from nearby communities. Israeli&nbsp;authorities said it was the country's largest wildfire in a decade.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cowardly-act-of-terrorism-indian-origin-uk-mp-priti-patel-condemns-pahalgam-terror-attack-9022026">'Cowardly act of terrorism': Indian-origin UK MP Priti Patel condemns Pahalgam terror attack</a>
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had warned the flames could reach Jerusalem, declaring the situation a "national emergency".&nbsp;Several ceremonies scheduled for Wednesday -- the eve of&nbsp;Israel's Independence Day -- were cancelled due to the fires, but events to mark the occasion were still being held on Thursday. The foreign ministry said firefighting aircraft were expected to arrive from Croatia, France, Italy, Romania and Spain to join the operation. Cyprus and Serbia also announced they were sending firefighting helicopters to&nbsp;Israel.
The Israeli military said its personnel were also helping in Jerusalem and other central districts.&nbsp;"The IAF (air force) continues assisting in the effort to extinguish the fires," said a military statement. It added that about 50 firetrucks were dispatched to where the blaze had spread.&nbsp;Fanned by strong winds, the fires spread rapidly through wooded areas on Wednesday, prompting evacuations from at least five communities, police said.
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World, West Asia | Israel witnessed massive sandstorms that severely reduced visibility in parts of the south, amid intensifying wildfires raging in the middle of the country

Israel witnessed massive sandstorms that severely reduced visibility in parts of the south, amid intensifying wildfires raging in the middle of the country. Social media users have shared video clips of the powerful sandstorm sweeping through Beersheba in the Negev Desert in southern Israel. Read More | We support India's right of self-defence says Israel Ambassador Reuven Azar BREAKING: 🇮🇱🔥 If fire wasn’t enough, a Massive Sandstorm has hit Israel. God’s wrath is glorious. pic.twitter.com/KSMZmfclBl — ADAM (@AdameMedia) April 30, 2025 Pahalgam Terror Attack LIVE: India retaliates to Pakistan Army's seventh consecutive LoC ceasefire violation BREAKING: 🇮🇱🔥 Israeli media says today's fires are the LARGEST in "Israel's history." The highway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv has been closed. So far, nine settlements have been evacuated. This is what god’s wrath looks like. pic.twitter.com/cCRlWamrlm — ADAM (@AdameMedia) April 30, 2025 Israel continues to battle raging wildfires This comes after Israeli firefighting teams are battling bushfires that threatened Jerusalem for a second day on Thursday, with police reporting the reopening of several major roads that had been closed. The fires broke out on Wednesday along the main Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway, prompting police to shut roads and evacuate thousands of residents from nearby communities. Israeli authorities said it was the country's largest wildfire in a decade. Read More | 'Cowardly act of terrorism': Indian-origin UK MP Priti Patel condemns Pahalgam terror attack Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had warned the flames could reach Jerusalem, declaring the situation a "national emergency". Several ceremonies scheduled for Wednesday -- the eve of Israel's Independence Day -- were cancelled due to the fires, but events to mark the occasion were still being held on Thursday. The foreign ministry said firefighting aircraft were expected to arrive from Croatia, France, Italy, Romania and Spain to join the operation. Cyprus and Serbia also announced they were sending firefighting helicopters to Israel. The Israeli military said its personnel were also helping in Jerusalem and other central districts. "The IAF (air force) continues assisting in the effort to extinguish the fires," said a military statement. It added that about 50 firetrucks were dispatched to where the blaze had spread. Fanned by strong winds, the fires spread rapidly through wooded areas on Wednesday, prompting evacuations from at least five communities, police said. Read More | Elon Musk denies Tesla CEO replacement rumors after WSJ report

WATCH | Massive sandstorm hits IsraeI amid raging Jerusalem wildfires

Israel is intensifying military operations in Gaza, using Bar rocket for the first time as part of an artillery barrage against Hamas. Fired by the IDF's 282nd Artillery Brigade, the Bar rocket features advanced navigation for quick strikes. The brigade is providing close support to ground troops in the Morag Corridor. It has reportedly launched over 5,000 shells, resulting in the deaths of Hamas operatives and the destruction of weapons storage facilities.

Israel uses deadly weapons against defenceless Gaza

Israel continues its military offensive in Gaza with the Al-Mawasi displacement camp in Kunis becoming its latest target.

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu vows to achieve victory in Gaza war, promises to bring hostages back

Israel's IDF deploys new Bar rockets with advanced navigation, enabling precise strikes in challenging environments. First operational use marks a significant upgrade in military capabilities.

IDF Launches 'Bar' Rocket For First Time Against Hamas Infrastructure In Gaza

Israel: IDF makes first operational use of bar rockets

Several prominent British lawyers, including Amal Clooney, have reportedly been cautioned about potential sanctions from President Donald Trump, which could impact their access to the United States. Watch to know more!

Amal Clooney Could Be Denied Entry To US Under Potential New Trump Sanctions

Israel launches airstrikes on Al-Mawasi displacement camp in Khan Younis, amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. Netanyahu government faces international scrutiny over civilian casualties and humanitarian crisis.

Israel strikes Al-Mawasi camp: Netanyahu vows to continue Gaza operation

As Israel expands raids in the West Bank, UN aid agency warns that the siege in Gaza is a silent killer.

Gaza crisis: 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza deprived of aid supplies

Israel has conducted airstrikes on over 50 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, vowing to prevent the group from using Beirut's suburbs as a safe haven. The strikes targeted buildings used to store missiles. Meanwhile, Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar announces his resignation.

Israel-Hezbollah war: Amnesty accuses Israel of 'live-streamed genocide' |

Israel-Hezbollah war: Israel struck over 50 terror targets in Lebanon

In a significant statement, Israel ambassador Reuven Azar has said that his country supports India's right of self self defence in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. 

Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, he said, 'We support India's right of self defence of India...India knows what to do...it is matter of sovereignty. Countries have right to take self defence'. The last week's terror attack killed over 20 people, including one Nepal national. Israel was quick to extend condolences over the terror attack.

Asked about Pakistan's proposal to have an independent probe, the ambassador said, 'This is a cynical game. One hand your harbour terrorist ..you can't be cause of conflict, and asking for investigation, to present yourself as saint'. 

In the past, after the Mumbai 26/11 terror attacks, when India gave evidence to Pakistan & Pathankot terror attack, when Pakistan investigation teams were part of the probe, no headway was made by Islamabad & Rawalpindi. 

The Ambassador Reuven Azar, spoke about overall cooperation with India & how terror organisations 'inspire' each other, pointing to the Hamas terror attack in October 2023 in Israel.

'Terrorism is an international problem': Israel ambassador Reuven Azar speaks to WION

On April 27, 2025, Israeli airstrikes hit Beirut’s southern suburb of Hadath, killing at least 17 people. The strike targeted a Hezbollah-linked site, escalating regional tensions.

Israel-Hamas War: Israel strikes Hezbollah missile warehouse in Beirut

Israel-Hamas War: At least 17 killed as Israel strikes Beirut's southern suburbs

Deadly Israeli strikes in Gaza kill 17, with dozens trapped under rubble. Rescue teams search for survivors as the death toll surpasses 84 in 24 hours. Many were injured, with fears of more trapped under debris.

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli strikes kill 17 across Gaza, dozens trapped under rubble

First, the Israeli government took four days to offer condolences on the death of Pope Francis, then Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took four days to offer condolences, and now, they have not sent Israeli officials to attend the funeral of a global spiritual leader.
Let's dig deeper into this, to know what could be the possible reasons.&nbsp;
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office took four days to offer condolences, but then also, gave a brief and impersonal statement.
Netanyahu's office released a two-sentence statement on Thursday night, stating, "The State of Israel expresses its deepest condolences to the Catholic Church and the Catholic community worldwide at the passing of Pope Francis. May he rest in peace."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-funeral-live-updates-from-st-mary-major-basilica-vatican-city-check-who-will-attend-date-time-news-9003593">Pope Francis Funeral Live: Funeral concludes after more than 2 hours of service, coffin arrives at Rome church for burial</a>
However, the other nations and its leaders outpour the tributes and condolences to the Pope.&nbsp;
Also, an earlier message posted on X by Israel's official account was deleted without explanation. That message featured a photo of Pope Francis at the Western Wall in Jerusalem and concluded with the words "May his memory be a blessing."
However, the officials at the foreign minister defended by saying that the post was deleted due to an "error".&nbsp;
The controversy has now escalated as Israel sends a relatively low-level delegation, Israel's Vatican ambassador, Yaron Sideman, to attend the Pope's funeral, while, other nations were presented by their heads of state government.&nbsp;
While Palestine Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa attended the funeral of Pope Francis.&nbsp;
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-francis-coffin-carried-into-st-peters-square-amid-tears-applause-9004938">Pope Francis' coffin carried into St. Peter's Square amid tears &amp; applause</a>
<h2>What could be the reasons?</h2>
Pope Francis has always been vocal in criticising Israel's military actions in Gaza and has suggested that the international community should see whether Israel's actions could be classified as "genocide".&nbsp;
Pope also expressed sympathy for the Palestinian people as he described the Gaza humanitarian situation as "shameful".&nbsp;
Moreover, in his last public address on Easter Sunday, he mentioned the suffering of both Palestinians and Israelis.&nbsp;
Despite Pope's efforts to strengthen multi-faith dialogue, some in Israel believe that he took the side of the Palestinians.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-funeral-donald-trump-slammed-for-wearing-blue-9004404">'Who wears a...': Donald Trump roasted for making a poor choice at Pope Francis funeral</a>
However, on the contrary, Palestinian Authority has expressed great respect for Pope. Palestine Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa also attended the funeral of Pope Francis.&nbsp;
Palestinians have said that the Pope's expression of sympathy has given them hope during a rough time.&nbsp;
Reportedly, earlier, Pope Francis used to often contact the small Christian community sheltering in a church in Gaza City during the war, showing his concern for their well-being.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-the-man-leading-pope-francis-funeral-service-9004026">Meet the man leading Pope Francis' funeral service</a>

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office took four days to offer condolences, but then also, gave a brief and impersonal statement. WORLD

First, the Israeli government took four days to offer condolences on the death of Pope Francis, then Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took four days to offer condolences, and now, they have not sent Israeli officials to attend the funeral of a global spiritual leader. Let's dig deeper into this, to know what could be the possible reasons. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office took four days to offer condolences, but then also, gave a brief and impersonal statement. Netanyahu's office released a two-sentence statement on Thursday night, stating, "The State of Israel expresses its deepest condolences to the Catholic Church and the Catholic community worldwide at the passing of Pope Francis. May he rest in peace." Also read: Pope Francis Funeral Live: Funeral concludes after more than 2 hours of service, coffin arrives at Rome church for burial However, the other nations and its leaders outpour the tributes and condolences to the Pope. Also, an earlier message posted on X by Israel's official account was deleted without explanation. That message featured a photo of Pope Francis at the Western Wall in Jerusalem and concluded with the words "May his memory be a blessing." However, the officials at the foreign minister defended by saying that the post was deleted due to an "error". The controversy has now escalated as Israel sends a relatively low-level delegation, Israel's Vatican ambassador, Yaron Sideman, to attend the Pope's funeral, while, other nations were presented by their heads of state government. While Palestine Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa attended the funeral of Pope Francis. WATCH | Pope Francis' coffin carried into St. Peter's Square amid tears & applause What could be the reasons? Pope Francis has always been vocal in criticising Israel's military actions in Gaza and has suggested that the international community should see whether Israel's actions could be classified as "genocide". Pope also expressed sympathy for the Palestinian people as he described the Gaza humanitarian situation as "shameful". Moreover, in his last public address on Easter Sunday, he mentioned the suffering of both Palestinians and Israelis. Despite Pope's efforts to strengthen multi-faith dialogue, some in Israel believe that he took the side of the Palestinians. Also read: 'Who wears a...': Donald Trump roasted for making a poor choice at Pope Francis funeral However, on the contrary, Palestinian Authority has expressed great respect for Pope. Palestine Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa also attended the funeral of Pope Francis. Palestinians have said that the Pope's expression of sympathy has given them hope during a rough time. Reportedly, earlier, Pope Francis used to often contact the small Christian community sheltering in a church in Gaza City during the war, showing his concern for their well-being. Also read: Meet the man leading Pope Francis' funeral service

Israeli officials absent from Pope's funeral, but Palestinian PM was there - What could be the reason?

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