A 23-year-old American-Israeli citizen sent out a chilling message to his parents hours before going missing from the rave party where Hamas terrorists launched their first attack and kidnapped its attendees.

Hersh Golberg-Polin, who had just celebrated his 23rd birthday this past week, was attending a music festival in the Negev desert region. He had left the US on Friday night for the rave. He had also recently completed his mandatory army service.

After texting his parents, “I love you” and “I’m sorry,” Golberg-Polin became unreachable.

“We just want him home and safe,” his father, Jonathon Polin told The Jerusalem Post, adding that if he could tell his son anything, he would say: “We love you. Come home to us.”

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This is Hersh Golberg-Polin, a 23-year-old American-Israeli who was at the desert music festival attacked by Hamas. 
 
His parents are anxiously searching for him. On Saturday morning they received 2 short messages from their son saying: “I love you” and “I’m sorry.” They haven't… <a href="https://t.co/5OAZSU0ULD">pic.twitter.com/5OAZSU0ULD</a>
— Aviva Klompas (@AvivaKlompas) <a href="https://twitter.com/AvivaKlompas/status/1711003252584505726?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The video went viral and purportedly showed Hamas militants raiding the party with the help of motorised paragliders. The clip further shows that the people were dancing, seemingly unaware that the country was under attack.

According to local media, around 260 bodies were found at the rave party site.

<h2>Wanted to visit India </h2>

During his service, Golberg-Polin drove tanks in the 7th Armored Brigade and later trained to become a medic, his father said, adding that his son thought it was “more interesting than driving a tank.”

After the end of his service, he decided to explore the world, attend music festivals, and watch the Hapoel Jerusalem soccer team.

Golberg-Polin worked both as a medic and a waiter and he was trying to save money to visit India as it had been a long-time dream of his, his father told The Jerusalem Post.

The Nature Party, near Kibbutz Re'im close to Gaza, was attended by thousands of people. It was the first target of the militant group that crossed into Israel on early Saturday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-brutal-hamas-attack-israeli-rescue-service-retrieve-260-bodies-from-music-festival-644281">After brutal Hamas attack, 260 bodies retrieved from music fest</a>

As rocket fire exploded around, panicked partygoers tried to escape in any way they could.

<h2>Hamas takes over 100 Israeli hostages</h2>

According to media reports, more than 100 Israeli hostages are being held by Hamas fighters in Gaza, which includes high-ranking army officers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-hamas-dupe-israel-into-a-false-sense-of-security-before-ongoing-devastating-attack-644424">Did Hamas dupe Israel into false sense of security before ongoing attack?</a> 
 
Chief deputy of Hamas' political bureau Mousa Abu Marzouk in an interview with Arabic news outlet al-Ghad TV&nbsp;said that the number of Israeli hostages "hasn't been counted yet but they are over a hundred."

(With inputs from agencies)

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A 23-year-old American-Israeli citizen sent out a chilling message to his parents hours before going missing from the rave party where Hamas terrorists launched their first attack and kidnapped its attendees.

A 23-year-old American-Israeli citizen sent out a chilling message to his parents hours before going missing from the rave party where Hamas terrorists launched their first attack and kidnapped its attendees. Hersh Golberg-Polin, who had just celebrated his 23rd birthday this past week, was attending a music festival in the Negev desert region. He had left the US on Friday night for the rave. He had also recently completed his mandatory army service. After texting his parents, “I love you” and “I’m sorry,” Golberg-Polin became unreachable. “We just want him home and safe,” his father, Jonathon Polin told The Jerusalem Post, adding that if he could tell his son anything, he would say: “We love you. Come home to us.” This is Hersh Golberg-Polin, a 23-year-old American-Israeli who was at the desert music festival attacked by Hamas. His parents are anxiously searching for him. On Saturday morning they received 2 short messages from their son saying: “I love you” and “I’m sorry.” They haven't… pic.twitter.com/5OAZSU0ULD — Aviva Klompas (@AvivaKlompas) October 8, 2023 × The video went viral and purportedly showed Hamas militants raiding the party with the help of motorised paragliders. The clip further shows that the people were dancing, seemingly unaware that the country was under attack. According to local media, around 260 bodies were found at the rave party site. Wanted to visit India During his service, Golberg-Polin drove tanks in the 7th Armored Brigade and later trained to become a medic, his father said, adding that his son thought it was “more interesting than driving a tank.” After the end of his service, he decided to explore the world, attend music festivals, and watch the Hapoel Jerusalem soccer team. Golberg-Polin worked both as a medic and a waiter and he was trying to save money to visit India as it had been a long-time dream of his, his father told The Jerusalem Post. The Nature Party, near Kibbutz Re'im close to Gaza, was attended by thousands of people. It was the first target of the militant group that crossed into Israel on early Saturday. Also read | After brutal Hamas attack, 260 bodies retrieved from music fest As rocket fire exploded around, panicked partygoers tried to escape in any way they could. Hamas takes over 100 Israeli hostages According to media reports, more than 100 Israeli hostages are being held by Hamas fighters in Gaza, which includes high-ranking army officers. Also read | Did Hamas dupe Israel into false sense of security before ongoing attack? Chief deputy of Hamas' political bureau Mousa Abu Marzouk in an interview with Arabic news outlet al-Ghad TV said that the number of Israeli hostages "hasn't been counted yet but they are over a hundred." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

23-year-old sends chilling text before going missing from Israeli rave party

A 19-year-old Palestinian student was allegedly killed in the Israeli-occupied West Bank town of Huwara on Friday (Oct 6) after being attacked by a Jewish settler, said the Palestinian health ministry. Later in the day, violence erupted again when dozens of people attended the Palestinian student’s funeral where they clashed with the Israeli military.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

The Palestinian Ministry of Health said one of the settlers shot a 19-year-old university student Labib Dumaidi in the heart, who later succumbed to his wounds.&nbsp;

However, the Israeli military offered a different account and said that its soldiers fired at the Palestinian after the suspect&nbsp;hurled a brick at an Israeli vehicle during clashes between dozens of settlers and residents.&nbsp;

The Israeli forces also said that the suspect – without offering details on his victim’s identity – was struck by gunfire. A military spokesperson said they were unaware that any of the settlers had fired a weapon during the confrontations.

Relatives of Dumaidi, in a testimony collected by Israeli human rights group Yesh Din, said that he had sought refuge on the roof of his home and was trying to ward off settlers who were hurling rocks at their house and vandalising the family’s car when the settler shot him.&nbsp;

Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs called the killing of Dumaidi a “heinous crime” and called for international intervention to stop armed settler militias.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich who visited Huwara on Friday said Israel must take firmer action against Palestinian militants “to save lives and reinstate security,” adding that they will further develop Jewish settlements.

<h2>Palestinians clash with Israeli military</h2>

Dozens of people attended Dumaidi’s funeral under the watch of Israeli soldiers when the violence erupted once again. According to the Palestinian Red Crescent, at least 51 Palestinians were wounded in clashes with the Israeli military saying that the injuries were mostly due to tear gas but also rubber-tipped bullets and three from live fire.

<h2>Settler violence in Huwara</h2>

Residents of the West Bank town said that a group of settlers – some of them carrying arms &nbsp;– set up a tent in Huwara, held prayers, and later marched through the town and began vandalising shops and cars.

“More than 200 settlers gathered in the middle of Huwara after midnight, shouting and dancing, some of them with covered faces,” Palestinian resident Abderrahman Dmidi told AFP.

He added, “They began throwing stones towards some houses, and then the young people…tried to defend their homes by throwing stones.”&nbsp;

Residents also alleged that Israeli soldiers turned a blind eye to the violence that unfolded. “It’s clear that the settler militias are protected by the occupation’s soldiers,” Thaer Qawareeq, a supermarket employee, told Reuters, adding that this is the third time that settlers have damaged their supermarket.

<h2>Recent clashes</h2>

The incident comes amid a surge in settler violence across the West Bank. On Thursday (Oct 5), a suspected Palestinian gunman shot at a car in Huwara which was carrying three members of an Israeli family, who were unharmed.&nbsp;

Later that day, the Israeli military tracked him down and killed him. On the same day, at least two Palestinian gunmen and five Israeli soldiers were wounded in separate clashes.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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A 19-year-old Palestinian student was allegedly killed in the Israeli-occupied West Bank town of Huwara on Friday (Oct 6) after being attacked by a Jewish settler, said the Palestinian health ministry.

A 19-year-old Palestinian student was allegedly killed in the Israeli-occupied West Bank town of Huwara on Friday (Oct 6) after being attacked by a Jewish settler, said the Palestinian health ministry. Later in the day, violence erupted again when dozens of people attended the Palestinian student’s funeral where they clashed with the Israeli military. What happened? The Palestinian Ministry of Health said one of the settlers shot a 19-year-old university student Labib Dumaidi in the heart, who later succumbed to his wounds. However, the Israeli military offered a different account and said that its soldiers fired at the Palestinian after the suspect hurled a brick at an Israeli vehicle during clashes between dozens of settlers and residents. The Israeli forces also said that the suspect – without offering details on his victim’s identity – was struck by gunfire. A military spokesperson said they were unaware that any of the settlers had fired a weapon during the confrontations. Relatives of Dumaidi, in a testimony collected by Israeli human rights group Yesh Din, said that he had sought refuge on the roof of his home and was trying to ward off settlers who were hurling rocks at their house and vandalising the family’s car when the settler shot him. Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs called the killing of Dumaidi a “heinous crime” and called for international intervention to stop armed settler militias. Meanwhile, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich who visited Huwara on Friday said Israel must take firmer action against Palestinian militants “to save lives and reinstate security,” adding that they will further develop Jewish settlements. Palestinians clash with Israeli military Dozens of people attended Dumaidi’s funeral under the watch of Israeli soldiers when the violence erupted once again. According to the Palestinian Red Crescent, at least 51 Palestinians were wounded in clashes with the Israeli military saying that the injuries were mostly due to tear gas but also rubber-tipped bullets and three from live fire. Settler violence in Huwara Residents of the West Bank town said that a group of settlers – some of them carrying arms – set up a tent in Huwara, held prayers, and later marched through the town and began vandalising shops and cars. “More than 200 settlers gathered in the middle of Huwara after midnight, shouting and dancing, some of them with covered faces,” Palestinian resident Abderrahman Dmidi told AFP. He added, “They began throwing stones towards some houses, and then the young people…tried to defend their homes by throwing stones.” Residents also alleged that Israeli soldiers turned a blind eye to the violence that unfolded. “It’s clear that the settler militias are protected by the occupation’s soldiers,” Thaer Qawareeq, a supermarket employee, told Reuters, adding that this is the third time that settlers have damaged their supermarket. Recent clashes The incident comes amid a surge in settler violence across the West Bank. On Thursday (Oct 5), a suspected Palestinian gunman shot at a car in Huwara which was carrying three members of an Israeli family, who were unharmed. Later that day, the Israeli military tracked him down and killed him. On the same day, at least two Palestinian gunmen and five Israeli soldiers were wounded in separate clashes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Palestinian killed amid settler violence in West Bank; over 50 injured after clashes with Israeli military

Israeli female soldiers will no longer be allowed to serve as guards in high-security prisons after allegations surfaced of sexual involvement with Palestinian inmates, media reports said. The latest&nbsp;incident involved a female soldier who reportedly confessed to engaging in physical intimacy with a Palestinian man. The man is purportedly responsible for a deadly attack on Israeli civilians. The identities of the soldier and the Palestinian inmate serving a life sentence have not been disclosed. The court overseeing the case has also issued orders to withhold additional details, including the location of the prison in question.&nbsp;

<h2>Allegations of multiple female involvement</h2>

During questioning, the arrested Israeli soldier claimed that four other women had also engaged in intimate relations with the same Palestinian man.

The inmate was subsequently transferred to a separate wing within the prison for further investigation, as stated by the Israeli Prison Service (IPS).

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armenia-says-over-100000-have-fled-nagorno-karabakh-fuel-depot-blast-death-toll-rises-to-170-641264">Armenia says over 100,000 have fled Karabakh; blast death toll rises to 170</a>

Katy Perry, the head of the IPS, and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir jointly announced that female soldiers would no longer be assigned to guard high-security prisons housing Palestinian "terrorists."

The cessation of female IDF soldiers' service in security prisons has faced consistent advocacy, including from Ben Gvir. Yet, the move has encountered delays due to the challenge of finding suitable personnel to replace the female soldiers.

According to Israeli media, Ben-Gvir asserted that by mid-2025, "not a single female soldier will remain in the security prisoners' wings."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-row-with-canada-over-nijjars-murder-indias-jaishankar-urges-ottawa-to-share-specifics-641110">In Nijjar murder row with Canada, India's foreign minister Jaishankar urges Ottawa to share specifics</a>

On Thursday (September 28), the accused female soldier was placed under house arrest. The five soldiers are reportedly approaching the conclusion of their compulsory service.

The guard's attorney contended that the inmate coerced his client into an involuntary relationship. However, Times of Israel while quoting a high-ranking police official who spoke with Ynet said that the evidence pointed in a different direction.

Perry termed the incident “severe" and said that IPS is ready to “take all necessary steps and have zero tolerance for instances of [violating] moral values.”

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Meanwhile, Ben Gvir said, “Immediately after I began my role, I insisted on this, and since then took significant steps on the matter, and the presence of female soldiers in [prison] wings has been reduced."&nbsp;

<h2>Earlier scandal</h2>

This latest development follows a scandal at one prison last year, wherein Palestinian convicts were accused of sexually assaulting and raping female soldiers serving as prison guards.&nbsp;Certain prison guards were alleged to have "pimped out" conscripts by offering them to inmates as a means of appeasement.&nbsp;In Israel, military service is compulsory for most of its citizens.&nbsp;

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Israeli female soldiers will no longer be allowed to serve as guards in high-security prisons after allegations surfaced of sexual involvement with Palestinian inmates, media reports said.

Israeli female soldiers will no longer be allowed to serve as guards in high-security prisons after allegations surfaced of sexual involvement with Palestinian inmates, media reports said. The latest incident involved a female soldier who reportedly confessed to engaging in physical intimacy with a Palestinian man. The man is purportedly responsible for a deadly attack on Israeli civilians. The identities of the soldier and the Palestinian inmate serving a life sentence have not been disclosed. The court overseeing the case has also issued orders to withhold additional details, including the location of the prison in question. Allegations of multiple female involvement During questioning, the arrested Israeli soldier claimed that four other women had also engaged in intimate relations with the same Palestinian man. The inmate was subsequently transferred to a separate wing within the prison for further investigation, as stated by the Israeli Prison Service (IPS). Also Read | Armenia says over 100,000 have fled Karabakh; blast death toll rises to 170 Katy Perry, the head of the IPS, and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir jointly announced that female soldiers would no longer be assigned to guard high-security prisons housing Palestinian "terrorists." The cessation of female IDF soldiers' service in security prisons has faced consistent advocacy, including from Ben Gvir. Yet, the move has encountered delays due to the challenge of finding suitable personnel to replace the female soldiers. According to Israeli media, Ben-Gvir asserted that by mid-2025, "not a single female soldier will remain in the security prisoners' wings." Also Read | In Nijjar murder row with Canada, India's foreign minister Jaishankar urges Ottawa to share specifics On Thursday (September 28), the accused female soldier was placed under house arrest. The five soldiers are reportedly approaching the conclusion of their compulsory service. The guard's attorney contended that the inmate coerced his client into an involuntary relationship. However, Times of Israel while quoting a high-ranking police official who spoke with Ynet said that the evidence pointed in a different direction. Perry termed the incident “severe" and said that IPS is ready to “take all necessary steps and have zero tolerance for instances of [violating] moral values.” Watch | Extremist attacks on the rise in Burkina Faso, Burkina marks one year of coup × Meanwhile, Ben Gvir said, “Immediately after I began my role, I insisted on this, and since then took significant steps on the matter, and the presence of female soldiers in [prison] wings has been reduced." Earlier scandal This latest development follows a scandal at one prison last year, wherein Palestinian convicts were accused of sexually assaulting and raping female soldiers serving as prison guards. Certain prison guards were alleged to have "pimped out" conscripts by offering them to inmates as a means of appeasement. In Israel, military service is compulsory for most of its citizens. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Israeli female soldiers banned from prison guard duty after alleged sex with Palestinian inmates

At least three Palestinian men have been killed in a fresh attack. Carried out by the Israeli army in west bank's Jenin. It was only few days ago when, three Palestinians from Jenin lost their lives to a similar raid carried out by the Israeli military.

Israeli military hits Jenin's 'terrorist infrastructure'

Germany on Wednesday (June 14) approved an advance payment for the purchase of the sophisticated Arrow 3 air defence system from Israel. The go-ahead given by the lawmaker is for nearly $4.3 billion, news agencies reported.

Germany to buy Israeli missile defense system for $4.3 billion

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday refuted all claims made in the alleged US intel leaks that top Mossad officials had supported and encouraged demonstrations against the government's judicial overhaul, a move against which massive protests have been held in the country.&nbsp;

US intel leaks raised concerns about whether America is spying on its allies, including Israel. Netanyahu while speaking to NBC rejected these leaked documents, a part of a trove that made the far-reaching revelations.&nbsp;

In replying to a question if Mossad opposes the current Israeli government, Netanyahu said,&nbsp;"God no." "I value American intelligence a little more than that, and I think they probably know the truth."&nbsp;

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He added, "The truth is that the Mossad legal adviser said that under Israeli law, junior members of Mossad can participate in demonstrations, not senior members. That's, I think, what led to this misunderstanding. No, I think the Mossad, the military, the internal security services, are working hand-in-hand with me as prime minister to assure the security of the country, and they're doing a damn good job of it."

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Earlier, US President Joe Biden warned Israel that it "cannot continue" pressing for deeply controversial judicial reforms, which have prompted months of unrest and criticism among Western allies.

Reacting to this comment, Netanyahu denied any tensions with the Biden administration and said, "I share with him the view that we should act — and not only share the view, I'm actually acting on it, to try to reach a broad consensus as possible."

During the interview, Netanyahu was visibly agitated.&nbsp;

Watch | Sudan Power Struggle: Army clashes with paramilitary forces enters third day

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He said there is a need to reestablish a system of checks and balances in line with other Western democracies. The Israeli PM also refuted any claims of declining poll numbers. He asserted that last year's election demonstrated he has a good support base to pursue changes to Israel's judiciary.

Netanyahu further criticised the Israeli media and the opposition for spreading lies about the composition of his far-right administration. He cited his schooling in America as proof of his commitment to democracy.

He also denied reports that he changed his mind about term limits for prime ministers because of the corruption case against him.&nbsp;The claim that the Mossad was involved in the demonstrations has since been extensively refuted by Israeli officials. .

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday refuted all claims made in the alleged US intel leaks that top Mossad officials had supported and encouraged demonstrations against the government's judicial overhaul, a move against which massive protests have been held in the country.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday refuted all claims made in the alleged US intel leaks that top Mossad officials had supported and encouraged demonstrations against the government's judicial overhaul, a move against which massive protests have been held in the country. US intel leaks raised concerns about whether America is spying on its allies, including Israel. Netanyahu while speaking to NBC rejected these leaked documents, a part of a trove that made the far-reaching revelations. In replying to a question if Mossad opposes the current Israeli government, Netanyahu said, "God no." "I value American intelligence a little more than that, and I think they probably know the truth." Also Read | Russia's Putin meets Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu in Moscow He added, "The truth is that the Mossad legal adviser said that under Israeli law, junior members of Mossad can participate in demonstrations, not senior members. That's, I think, what led to this misunderstanding. No, I think the Mossad, the military, the internal security services, are working hand-in-hand with me as prime minister to assure the security of the country, and they're doing a damn good job of it." Also Read | Chinese minister meets Putin, says willing to work with Russian military to have close communications Earlier, US President Joe Biden warned Israel that it "cannot continue" pressing for deeply controversial judicial reforms, which have prompted months of unrest and criticism among Western allies. Reacting to this comment, Netanyahu denied any tensions with the Biden administration and said, "I share with him the view that we should act — and not only share the view, I'm actually acting on it, to try to reach a broad consensus as possible." During the interview, Netanyahu was visibly agitated. Watch | Sudan Power Struggle: Army clashes with paramilitary forces enters third day × He said there is a need to reestablish a system of checks and balances in line with other Western democracies. The Israeli PM also refuted any claims of declining poll numbers. He asserted that last year's election demonstrated he has a good support base to pursue changes to Israel's judiciary. Netanyahu further criticised the Israeli media and the opposition for spreading lies about the composition of his far-right administration. He cited his schooling in America as proof of his commitment to democracy. He also denied reports that he changed his mind about term limits for prime ministers because of the corruption case against him. The claim that the Mossad was involved in the demonstrations has since been extensively refuted by Israeli officials. . WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Netanyahu discloses why US intel leaks said Mossad encouraged Israel protests

The ugly face of racism once again surfaced in Israel, this time at Ulpanat Horev, a religious girls' high school in Jerusalem. A racist video depicting girls in Ashkenazi (Jewish people whose ancestors were in France and Central and Eastern Europe) and Mizrahi (descendants of Middle Eastern and North African Jews) representations was posted to the school's Youtube account.

The now-deleted video was published on social media under the title "If the School Was Mizrahi" and was part of the Purim skit. Purim is a joyous Jewish festival commemorating the survival of the Jews in the ancient Persian empire.&nbsp;

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The schoolgirls in the video can be seen going in a line through a door with black blotches covering their faces.&nbsp;In the video, comparisons are made with regards to behaviour and choices in general.&nbsp;It goes to the extent where Ashkenazi are depicted as women&nbsp;who are serene, creative, and spiritual. On the other hand,&nbsp;Mizrahi girls are depicted as wild, boisterous, and improper.

It was seen in the video that each girl's name lights on the screen as she passes by. Her last name is scratched out and Mizrahi names are placed there.&nbsp;

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The students in the video are 12th graders. There is also a staff member seen in the video who made an appearance at one point.

The video soon gained traction and received widespread condemnation with people terming its content as racist. When the opposing voices grew stronger, the school decided to take down the video from social media platform.

"This is a video that never should have been made, and it was an accident that happened under our watch," the school's management said in a statement.

"The school apologises and is sorry for the content even though it was made by the students as satire and a parody as part of Purim events. Anyone who was exposed to the school's activity throughout the years knows that this doesn't reflect the schools at all."

The students defended themselves saying that it was only recorded in good faith and meant no harm.&nbsp;

"In light of the outrage that the video we uploaded during Adar caused, we the 12th graders want to clear up a few things," they said in a statement. "The video was produced in a purely humorous way and refers to the school's inside jokes."

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"We feel that the person who published the post [making the video public] is looking to create a needless provocation and inspire hate, which is a shame," the statement continued.

"Especially in these days of conflict and rift among the people, we ask people to abound in free love. Don't drag us into a needless hateful conflict. Out of love and appreciation for all the shades of people in Israel, regardless of political opinions, roots or religious level, we are leaving the school at the end of the year to serve the people and the nation in national and military service. We are all one people."

Politicians also commented on the video. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, "There is no place for discrimination or racism in the State of Israel.&nbsp;We are all one people."

Education Minister Yoav Kisch also condemned the video. "I watched the video made by the school's students in shock."

"I'm even more surprised and horrified that no one in the system vetoed it. The matter is being investigated in the Education Ministry, and our message is clear: There is zero tolerance for racism."

This incident comes weeks after a group of Ethiopian-Israeli schoolgirls filmed their teachers who were making fun of them in an online group chat while on a field trip.&nbsp; 
 
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The ugly face of racism once again surfaced in Israel, this time at Ulpanat Horev, a religious girls' high school in Jerusalem. A racist video depicting girls in Ashkenazi (Jewish people whose ancestors were in France and Central and Eastern Europe) and Mizrahi (descendants of Middle Eastern and North African Jews) representations was posted to the school's Youtube account.

The ugly face of racism once again surfaced in Israel, this time at Ulpanat Horev, a religious girls' high school in Jerusalem. A racist video depicting girls in Ashkenazi (Jewish people whose ancestors were in France and Central and Eastern Europe) and Mizrahi (descendants of Middle Eastern and North African Jews) representations was posted to the school's Youtube account. The now-deleted video was published on social media under the title "If the School Was Mizrahi" and was part of the Purim skit. Purim is a joyous Jewish festival commemorating the survival of the Jews in the ancient Persian empire. Also Read | One of Pablo Escobar's ‘cocaine hippo’ gets struck by car, dies The schoolgirls in the video can be seen going in a line through a door with black blotches covering their faces. In the video, comparisons are made with regards to behaviour and choices in general. It goes to the extent where Ashkenazi are depicted as women who are serene, creative, and spiritual. On the other hand, Mizrahi girls are depicted as wild, boisterous, and improper. It was seen in the video that each girl's name lights on the screen as she passes by. Her last name is scratched out and Mizrahi names are placed there. Also Read | Thailand celebrates Songkran Water Festival The students in the video are 12th graders. There is also a staff member seen in the video who made an appearance at one point. The video soon gained traction and received widespread condemnation with people terming its content as racist. When the opposing voices grew stronger, the school decided to take down the video from social media platform. "This is a video that never should have been made, and it was an accident that happened under our watch," the school's management said in a statement. "The school apologises and is sorry for the content even though it was made by the students as satire and a parody as part of Purim events. Anyone who was exposed to the school's activity throughout the years knows that this doesn't reflect the schools at all." The students defended themselves saying that it was only recorded in good faith and meant no harm. "In light of the outrage that the video we uploaded during Adar caused, we the 12th graders want to clear up a few things," they said in a statement. "The video was produced in a purely humorous way and refers to the school's inside jokes." Watch | Joe Biden addresses Irish parliament, says he 'feels at home' × "We feel that the person who published the post [making the video public] is looking to create a needless provocation and inspire hate, which is a shame," the statement continued. "Especially in these days of conflict and rift among the people, we ask people to abound in free love. Don't drag us into a needless hateful conflict. Out of love and appreciation for all the shades of people in Israel, regardless of political opinions, roots or religious level, we are leaving the school at the end of the year to serve the people and the nation in national and military service. We are all one people." Politicians also commented on the video. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, "There is no place for discrimination or racism in the State of Israel. We are all one people." Education Minister Yoav Kisch also condemned the video. "I watched the video made by the school's students in shock." "I'm even more surprised and horrified that no one in the system vetoed it. The matter is being investigated in the Education Ministry, and our message is clear: There is zero tolerance for racism." This incident comes weeks after a group of Ethiopian-Israeli schoolgirls filmed their teachers who were making fun of them in an online group chat while on a field trip. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel: Schoolgirls mock Mizrahi Jews during Purim skit, draw flak for racism

The names of the two British-Israeli sisters who were slain in a shooting in the occupied West Bank on Friday were revealed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as Rina and Maia Dee.

Rina, 15, and Maia, 20, were born in London.&nbsp;

Gunmen had opened fire while overtaking their vehicle in the Jordan Valley, killing Rina and Maia while their mother Lucianne, 45, was seriously hurt. Following the shooting, their car skidded off the road.

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Lucianne was airlifted to a hospital in Jerusalem and is now receiving treatment there. She continues to remain in intensive care.&nbsp;

The family had moved to Israel about eight years ago. The father of the British-Israeli sisters, Rabbi Leo Dee, served in synagogues in Hendon, north London, and Radlett, Hertfordshire. During the time of the incident, he was in a different car. He reached at the crime scene while passing through the area. Emergency services had already reached their before Rabbi Leo Dee's arrival at&nbsp;the spot.&nbsp;

As per reports, the funeral of&nbsp;the deceased sisters will take place on Sunday in the Efrat settlement.

The gunfire attack by the Palestinians assailants came after Israel carried out retaliatory airstrikes on Lebanon and the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

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Days of clashes near Jerusalem's holiest shrine during the unusual confluence of Ramadan, Passover, and Easter have heightened tensions.

In the tweet, Netanyahu wrote, “On behalf of all the citizens of Israel, I send my condolences to the Di Mafart family for the murder of the two wonderful sisters.”

“In these moments, if the family is fighting for its life, and together with the entire nation of Israel, I pray for its safety, and we all send our condolences and strength to this dear family in this moment of great sorrow.”

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The girls’ father in a statement expressed sadness over the tragic event and said, “Some people think that a religious government will suppress minority rights and become totalitarian. But this is not a risk in Israel as religious Jews simply believe in balancing love and justice.”

“For our part, we have felt a warm hug of love from Jews in Israel and beyond and we are confident that justice will be done,” he added. 
 
 
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The names of the two British-Israeli sisters who were slain in a shooting in the occupied West Bank on Friday were revealed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as Rina and Maia Dee.

The names of the two British-Israeli sisters who were slain in a shooting in the occupied West Bank on Friday were revealed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as Rina and Maia Dee. Rina, 15, and Maia, 20, were born in London. Gunmen had opened fire while overtaking their vehicle in the Jordan Valley, killing Rina and Maia while their mother Lucianne, 45, was seriously hurt. Following the shooting, their car skidded off the road. Also Read | UAE envoy Abdulnasser Alshaali praises India's G20 leadership, says honoured by New Delhi's invitation Lucianne was airlifted to a hospital in Jerusalem and is now receiving treatment there. She continues to remain in intensive care. The family had moved to Israel about eight years ago. The father of the British-Israeli sisters, Rabbi Leo Dee, served in synagogues in Hendon, north London, and Radlett, Hertfordshire. During the time of the incident, he was in a different car. He reached at the crime scene while passing through the area. Emergency services had already reached their before Rabbi Leo Dee's arrival at the spot. As per reports, the funeral of the deceased sisters will take place on Sunday in the Efrat settlement. The gunfire attack by the Palestinians assailants came after Israel carried out retaliatory airstrikes on Lebanon and the Gaza Strip. Also Read | Three injured in shooting at Christiana Mall in US state of Delaware: Police Days of clashes near Jerusalem's holiest shrine during the unusual confluence of Ramadan, Passover, and Easter have heightened tensions. In the tweet, Netanyahu wrote, “On behalf of all the citizens of Israel, I send my condolences to the Di Mafart family for the murder of the two wonderful sisters.” “In these moments, if the family is fighting for its life, and together with the entire nation of Israel, I pray for its safety, and we all send our condolences and strength to this dear family in this moment of great sorrow.” World at War | Russia welcomes Finland's NATO membership with nuclear Iskander missiles × The girls’ father in a statement expressed sadness over the tragic event and said, “Some people think that a religious government will suppress minority rights and become totalitarian. But this is not a risk in Israel as religious Jews simply believe in balancing love and justice.” “For our part, we have felt a warm hug of love from Jews in Israel and beyond and we are confident that justice will be done,” he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Netanyahu reveals names of British-Israeli sisters slain in West Bank gun shooting

Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu softened the judicial reforms but protesters and opposition continue to protest against the plan. The Israeli govt also passed a law that aims to limit the ways a sitting prime minister can be declared unfit for office which has divided the Israeli society.

Netanyahu softens legal overhaul, protests continue | The West Asia Post

A group of Ethiopian-Israeli schoolgirls filmed their teachers making fun of them in an online group chat while on a field trip. The teachers were texting each other in a WhatsApp group named Black School Trip when the girls noticed them doing so.

There are around 150,000 people of Ethiopian descent who lives in Israel. Ethiopian Jews have had a difficult time integrating into Israeli society. They face challenges such as rates of unemployment and prejudice.&nbsp;However, things have started to look up in recent years but this incident has left open the faultlines once again.&nbsp;

The racism incident occurred last Monday. A religious high school in Netivot in southern Israel had sent their teachers and students on a three-day trip.&nbsp;Girls seated behind one of the teachers saw the group chat messages. It had included insulting remarks directed against the Ethiopian-Israeli students.

Without the teacher's knowledge, the girl recorded&nbsp;the texts over a teacher's shoulder and later uploaded it on social media in a message that included images of the offending statements.

They called the teachers "a disgrace".&nbsp;

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The event is being investigated, and the teachers were suspended after the matter came to light.&nbsp;The Israeli teachers have also issued an apology.

"Good morning to all the 'educators' of this school," the girl wrote while sharing the images she clicked.

"It saddens me as a member of the [Ethiopian] community to see the level you sank to today. Instead of being our teachers and setting an example and making us feel like we're in our safest place, you did the exact opposite."

"Opening a group called 'Black School Trip' without even realising that there were students behind you and mocking your students? I see the photos, and I just don't believe that they come from our teachers. You are a disgrace, I'm ashamed that you're our teachers and that you're teaching the future generation."

The school's headmaster termed the incident a "shock and devastation to miserable and extremely offensive comments from teachers about Ethiopian students who study in the school". "The school management looks at these comments severely. There is no place for racist comments, and we won't allow them in our school."

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Israeli Education Minister Yoav Kisch has also condemned the act by the teachers.&nbsp;"The incident will be dealt with severely with all the tools at our disposal," he said. "I'm sorry for the distress that was caused for the students. There will be zero tolerance for these sorts of incidents on my watch."

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Israeli Mossad organised the immigration of Ethiopian Jews through camps for refugees in Sudan. As a consequence, initially roughly 7,000 Ethiopian Jews arrived in Israel. Later, Israeli security services rescued more Jews and brought them in Israel under various operations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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A group of Ethiopian-Israeli schoolgirls filmed their teachers making fun of them in an online group chat while on a field trip. The teachers were texting each other in a WhatsApp group named Black School Trip when the girls noticed them doing so.

A group of Ethiopian-Israeli schoolgirls filmed their teachers making fun of them in an online group chat while on a field trip. The teachers were texting each other in a WhatsApp group named Black School Trip when the girls noticed them doing so. There are around 150,000 people of Ethiopian descent who lives in Israel. Ethiopian Jews have had a difficult time integrating into Israeli society. They face challenges such as rates of unemployment and prejudice. However, things have started to look up in recent years but this incident has left open the faultlines once again. The racism incident occurred last Monday. A religious high school in Netivot in southern Israel had sent their teachers and students on a three-day trip. Girls seated behind one of the teachers saw the group chat messages. It had included insulting remarks directed against the Ethiopian-Israeli students. Without the teacher's knowledge, the girl recorded the texts over a teacher's shoulder and later uploaded it on social media in a message that included images of the offending statements. They called the teachers "a disgrace". Also Read | ISRO officials and Bhutan government inaugurate ground station of Indo-Bhutan satellite The event is being investigated, and the teachers were suspended after the matter came to light. The Israeli teachers have also issued an apology. "Good morning to all the 'educators' of this school," the girl wrote while sharing the images she clicked. "It saddens me as a member of the [Ethiopian] community to see the level you sank to today. Instead of being our teachers and setting an example and making us feel like we're in our safest place, you did the exact opposite." "Opening a group called 'Black School Trip' without even realising that there were students behind you and mocking your students? I see the photos, and I just don't believe that they come from our teachers. You are a disgrace, I'm ashamed that you're our teachers and that you're teaching the future generation." The school's headmaster termed the incident a "shock and devastation to miserable and extremely offensive comments from teachers about Ethiopian students who study in the school". "The school management looks at these comments severely. There is no place for racist comments, and we won't allow them in our school." Also Read | India's top court rejects plea on increased compensation for 1984 industrial disaster victims Israeli Education Minister Yoav Kisch has also condemned the act by the teachers. "The incident will be dealt with severely with all the tools at our disposal," he said. "I'm sorry for the distress that was caused for the students. There will be zero tolerance for these sorts of incidents on my watch." Watch | Indonesia's new capital at the cost of environment? Israeli Mossad organised the immigration of Ethiopian Jews through camps for refugees in Sudan. As a consequence, initially roughly 7,000 Ethiopian Jews arrived in Israel. Later, Israeli security services rescued more Jews and brought them in Israel under various operations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ethiopian students film Israeli teachers chatting on racist WhatsApp group named 'Black School Trip'

An Israeli parliament committee on Wednesday approved key bills which restrict Supreme Court's power to expunge unconstitutional laws. The Israeli government has been receiving severe backlash over its attempt to overhaul the judicial system in place.

The bill, which seeks to amend the Basic Law, would reportedly cement government control over judicial appointments and revoke the court’s ability to review these laws. Though approved by the committee, the bills are yet to go through three readings at the Knesset before it gets to a final vote.

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Moreover, in a preliminary vote, Knesset on Wednesday approved a bill which will impose the death penalty on "terrorists" who kill Israeli people. The bill, which saw the backing of the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu-led ruling Likud Party was approved by a vote of 55 to 9 in a preliminary reading, reported Israeli local media outlet, Times of Israel.

Among the other lawmakers who supported the bill was the opposition Yisrael Beiteinu party. The bill, which is yet to become a law, says that any individual who kills an Israeli citizen because of “racist motivations” or causes hostility towards the public "to harm the State of Israel and the revival of the Jewish people” will be given a death penalty.&nbsp;

A European diplomat condemned the bill calling it a "game-changer that would negatively impact relations."&nbsp;

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Many Knesset members debated over the bill and lent their support. Speaking during the Knesset plenum, Israeli politician MK Limor Son Har Melech of the Otzma Yehudit party said that for many years an "absurd" situation has prevailed in the country where "despicable terrorists who murdered Jews" are imprisoned in an Israeli prison for a few years and are then released in a terrorist release deal or a plea bargain.

He emphasised that after the release deal, these "terrorists" walk free among general civilians as one of their own. The legislation as it gets preliminary approval from the Israeli Parliament is already surrounded by controversy.&nbsp;The law would not apply to an Israeli who kills&nbsp;a Palestinian, the reports said.&nbsp;

However, according to some reports, Israeli PM&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party might delay the controversial law. This comes at a time when tensions have lately escalated between Israel and Palestine with Israeli forces carrying out raids at multiple regions in the occupied West Bank region.&nbsp;

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Days ago, Israel and Palestine in a joint statement agreed to stop the authorisation of illegal settlement outposts in the occupied West Bank for six months. However, this bill might throw a spanner in the efforts to de-escalate the tensions. Israel's Attorney general is also reportedly expected to oppose the bill.&nbsp;

Knesset also advanced a bill which was related to grounds for declaring the country's prime minister unfit for office. In a preliminary vote, Knesset gave a green check to the bill which stipulates that the cabinet or the parliament, with a 75% majority, can declare the premier unfit for office, only in case of mental or physical inability. The bill if approved to become law will make it hard to disqualify the prime minister.&nbsp;

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An Israeli parliament committee on Wednesday approved key bills which restrict Supreme Court's power to expunge unconstitutional laws. The Israeli government has been receiving severe backlash over its attempt to overhaul the judicial system in place.

An Israeli parliament committee on Wednesday approved key bills which restrict Supreme Court's power to expunge unconstitutional laws. The Israeli government has been receiving severe backlash over its attempt to overhaul the judicial system in place. The bill, which seeks to amend the Basic Law, would reportedly cement government control over judicial appointments and revoke the court’s ability to review these laws. Though approved by the committee, the bills are yet to go through three readings at the Knesset before it gets to a final vote. Also Read | Biden appoints two prominent Indian American corporate leaders to his Export Council Moreover, in a preliminary vote, Knesset on Wednesday approved a bill which will impose the death penalty on "terrorists" who kill Israeli people. The bill, which saw the backing of the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu-led ruling Likud Party was approved by a vote of 55 to 9 in a preliminary reading, reported Israeli local media outlet, Times of Israel. Among the other lawmakers who supported the bill was the opposition Yisrael Beiteinu party. The bill, which is yet to become a law, says that any individual who kills an Israeli citizen because of “racist motivations” or causes hostility towards the public "to harm the State of Israel and the revival of the Jewish people” will be given a death penalty. A European diplomat condemned the bill calling it a "game-changer that would negatively impact relations." Also Read | BBC must follow law, EAM Jaishankar tells UK Foreign secretary Many Knesset members debated over the bill and lent their support. Speaking during the Knesset plenum, Israeli politician MK Limor Son Har Melech of the Otzma Yehudit party said that for many years an "absurd" situation has prevailed in the country where "despicable terrorists who murdered Jews" are imprisoned in an Israeli prison for a few years and are then released in a terrorist release deal or a plea bargain. He emphasised that after the release deal, these "terrorists" walk free among general civilians as one of their own. The legislation as it gets preliminary approval from the Israeli Parliament is already surrounded by controversy. The law would not apply to an Israeli who kills a Palestinian, the reports said. However, according to some reports, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party might delay the controversial law. This comes at a time when tensions have lately escalated between Israel and Palestine with Israeli forces carrying out raids at multiple regions in the occupied West Bank region. Watch | EU bans TikTok on work devices amid data security breaches Days ago, Israel and Palestine in a joint statement agreed to stop the authorisation of illegal settlement outposts in the occupied West Bank for six months. However, this bill might throw a spanner in the efforts to de-escalate the tensions. Israel's Attorney general is also reportedly expected to oppose the bill. Knesset also advanced a bill which was related to grounds for declaring the country's prime minister unfit for office. In a preliminary vote, Knesset gave a green check to the bill which stipulates that the cabinet or the parliament, with a 75% majority, can declare the premier unfit for office, only in case of mental or physical inability. The bill if approved to become law will make it hard to disqualify the prime minister. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Knesset committee approves judicial overhaul bills as protests continue in Jerusalem

An Israeli firm sought to influence more than 30 elections around the world for clients by hacking, sabotage and spreading disinformation, according to an undercover media investigation published recently.

Israeli firm meddled in more than 30 elections: Report

At least 13 Palestinians were injured in an Israeli military raid in the Aqbat Jabr refugee camp in Jericho city, in the occupied West Bank on Saturday. According to the Palestinian health ministry, Israeli soldiers raided the camp and fired bullets, missiles, and tear gas which resulted in the wounding of 13 Palestinians, two of whom were critically hurt.&nbsp;

Israel was accused by the Palestinian Red Crescent Society of blocking ambulance access. After the operation was completed by the Israeli military, they were ultimately permitted to attend to the injured.

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The military raid comes as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has further intensified over the mass shooting at a synagogue in East Jerusalem which killed seven, an Israeli raid in the Jenin refugee camp in West Bank that killed 10 Palestinians and a cross-border rocket fire from the Gaza Strip in retaliation to the raid.

United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk on Friday called on Israel to ensure that all operations of its security forces in the occupied West Bank including East Jerusalem, are carried out with full respect for international human rights law.

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Around 235 people were killed in the conflict last year, with nearly 90 per cent of the casualties on the Palestinian side, a report by the news agency AFP said. In January alone, Israeli forces killed 35 Palestinians, including attackers, militants and civilians, the report added.&nbsp;

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United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken also called on both sides to prevent further bloodshed and expressed sorrow for innocent Palestinians killed in months of spiralling violence in the West Bank. &nbsp;

Blinken held talks with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank city of Ramallah, following meetings with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other cabinet ministers.&nbsp;

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At least 13 Palestinians were injured in an Israeli military raid in the Aqbat Jabr refugee camp in Jericho city, in the occupied West Bank on Saturday. According to the Palestinian health ministry, Israeli soldiers raided the camp and fired bullets, missiles, and tear gas which resulted in the wounding of 13 Palestinians, two of whom were critically hurt.

At least 13 Palestinians were injured in an Israeli military raid in the Aqbat Jabr refugee camp in Jericho city, in the occupied West Bank on Saturday. According to the Palestinian health ministry, Israeli soldiers raided the camp and fired bullets, missiles, and tear gas which resulted in the wounding of 13 Palestinians, two of whom were critically hurt. Israel was accused by the Palestinian Red Crescent Society of blocking ambulance access. After the operation was completed by the Israeli military, they were ultimately permitted to attend to the injured. Also Read | China bans Jack Dorsey-backed Twitter alternative Damus, here's why The military raid comes as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has further intensified over the mass shooting at a synagogue in East Jerusalem which killed seven, an Israeli raid in the Jenin refugee camp in West Bank that killed 10 Palestinians and a cross-border rocket fire from the Gaza Strip in retaliation to the raid. United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk on Friday called on Israel to ensure that all operations of its security forces in the occupied West Bank including East Jerusalem, are carried out with full respect for international human rights law. Also Read | Iraqi father strangles YouTuber daughter to death for deciding to leave country Around 235 people were killed in the conflict last year, with nearly 90 per cent of the casualties on the Palestinian side, a report by the news agency AFP said. In January alone, Israeli forces killed 35 Palestinians, including attackers, militants and civilians, the report added. Watch | US-EU spat over America's Inflation Reduction Act United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken also called on both sides to prevent further bloodshed and expressed sorrow for innocent Palestinians killed in months of spiralling violence in the West Bank. Blinken held talks with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank city of Ramallah, following meetings with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other cabinet ministers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least 13 Palestinians injured in Israeli military raids at Jericho camp

A couple of weeks after forming the most right-wing government in the history of Israel, the Benjamin Netanyahu government has focused its attention on revamp of the 'judiciary'.

A couple of weeks after forming the most right-wing government in the history of Israel, the Benjamin Netanyahu government has focused its attention on revamp of the 'judiciary'. Justice Minister Yair Levin on Wednesday presented the 'judicial overhaul package' aimed at neutering the judicial system of the country, according to the detractors. “I’ve warned against the damage caused by judicialisation. Now, the time has come to act," said Levin while presenting the overhaul package. Under the revamp programme, the country's parliament, also called Knesset will be given powers to override Supreme Court decisions with a simple majority of 61 votes. WATCH | Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu unveils his right-wing government's policy priorities × Calling the legislation 'balanced', Levin enlisted another rule that will forbid the court from using a test of reasonableness to judge the decisions taken by the government. Moreover, the panel that chooses the judges will be reformed and politicians will have an enhanced say in the selection. Currently, a nine-member panel chooses the judges which has three members of the government. However, if Levin's overhaul gets the nod, two representatives chosen by him i.e the justice minister will also sit on the panel. Effectively the government will have the majority of five against four in the committee. Lastly, the ministers will be able to appoint their own legal advisers under the new plan. Before signing off, Levin added that the package will be debated in the 120-seat Knesset. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the overhaul of the judiciary saying the new legislation will create a balance between the courts, government and the parliament. “We will revise the way we govern. We’ll take steps that strengthen personal security throughout the state. We’ll start by enacting reforms that will ensure the proper balance between the three branches of government.” Read more: Benjamin Netanyahu forms most right-wing coalition govt in Israel's history The critics of the plan argue that by passing the said legislation, the Netanyahu government will be undermining democracy in the country. The believe that power will reside in the hands of the most unilateral coalition in the history of the country without any checks and balances in place. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel government lays out sweeping court reform plan, setting up showdown with the judiciary

Itamar Ben-Gvir, the ultranationalist national security minister, toured the Jerusalem holy site just days after taking office, drawing a furious reaction from US and Mideast powers.

Israeli PM Netanyahu postpones UAE trip amid security minister's Aqsa visit

Itamar Ben-Gvir, the ultranationalist national security minister, toured the Jerusalem holy site just days after taking office, drawing a furious reaction from Palestinian leaders.

Israeli minister visits Jerusalem holy site

After repairs following an Israeli air strike earlier this week, Syria's Aleppo airport reopened on Friday with the first commercial flight to land in more than 72 hours.

The second-largest airport in the nation was rendered inoperable following damage to the main runway caused by the raid on Tuesday, but the transport ministry announced Friday that repairs had been finished.

The first aircraft to arrive, from Kuwait, touched down at 8:30 p.m. local time (1730 GMT), according to the monitoring organisation Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-saudi-arabia-becoming-the-drug-capital-of-the-middle-east-513257">Is Saudi Arabia becoming the drug capital of the Middle East?</a>

Air traffic would resume at noon, according to a statement from the ministry of transportation that state news agency SANA reported earlier.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/havent-got-response-from-the-us-says-iran-over-nuclear-deal-513087">Israeli attack </a>was the second to hit the airport in a week, according to the Britain-based Observatory, and it targeted a storage used by rebels supported by Iran.

Israel has admitted to carrying out hundreds of strikes, despite rarely commenting on specific attacks. It claims that its aerial war is essential to prevent its longtime enemy Iran from establishing itself at its doorstep.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After repairs following an Israeli air strike earlier this week, Syria's Aleppo airport reopened on Friday with the first commercial flight to land in more than 72 hours.

After repairs following an Israeli air strike earlier this week, Syria's Aleppo airport reopened on Friday with the first commercial flight to land in more than 72 hours. The second-largest airport in the nation was rendered inoperable following damage to the main runway caused by the raid on Tuesday, but the transport ministry announced Friday that repairs had been finished. The first aircraft to arrive, from Kuwait, touched down at 8:30 p.m. local time (1730 GMT), according to the monitoring organisation Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Also read | Is Saudi Arabia becoming the drug capital of the Middle East? Air traffic would resume at noon, according to a statement from the ministry of transportation that state news agency SANA reported earlier. The Israeli attack was the second to hit the airport in a week, according to the Britain-based Observatory, and it targeted a storage used by rebels supported by Iran. Israel has admitted to carrying out hundreds of strikes, despite rarely commenting on specific attacks. It claims that its aerial war is essential to prevent its longtime enemy Iran from establishing itself at its doorstep. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION live Tv here:

Syria: Aleppo airport reopens after Israeli strikes

Israel on Saturday condemned Norway's decision to label products from Israeli settlements with their place of origin.

A statement from Israel's foreign ministry said the position "will adversely affect bilateral relations between Israel and Norway, as well as Norway's relevance to promoting relations between Israel and the Palestinians".

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-norway-donates-howitzers-to-ukraine-486372">&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Norway donates howitzers to Ukraine</a>

The ministry was referring to Norway's longstanding role as a mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Norway's social democrat government announced its new policy on Friday, saying it was not enough to label products coming from the occupied territories as Israeli.&nbsp;

The measure mainly concerns imports of wine, olive oil, fruits and vegetables, and will apply to products from the occupied West Bank "including East Jerusalem" and occupied areas of the Golan Heights, Oslo said.

Watch |&nbsp;Israeli coalition suffers loss and face uncertainty

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Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt stressed in an interview with Norwegian news agency NTB that this in no way constituted a boycott of Israel.

"Norway has good relations with Israel," she added. "That must continue."

The European Commission recommended its member states follow this practice in 2015, a decision confirmed by the European Court of Justice in 2019.

Norway said that the principle behind its decision, as set out in the 2019 ruling, is that consumers should not be deceived by misleading labelling on the origin or products.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ending-israels-occupation-key-to-halting-violence-un-report-486019">Ending Israel's occupation key to halting violence: UN report</a>

During the Trump administration, the United States announced that goods made in Israeli settlements in the occupied territories could be labelled Israeli.

The settlements in the occupied territories are illegal under international law, but have continued under successive Israeli governments since 1967.

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Israel on Saturday condemned Norway's decision to label products from Israeli settlements with their place of origin. A statement from Israel's foreign ministry said the position "will adversely affect bilateral relations between Israel and Norway, as well as Norway's relevance to promoting relations between Israel and the Palestinians".

Israel on Saturday condemned Norway's decision to label products from Israeli settlements with their place of origin. A statement from Israel's foreign ministry said the position "will adversely affect bilateral relations between Israel and Norway, as well as Norway's relevance to promoting relations between Israel and the Palestinians". Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Norway donates howitzers to Ukraine The ministry was referring to Norway's longstanding role as a mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Norway's social democrat government announced its new policy on Friday, saying it was not enough to label products coming from the occupied territories as Israeli. The measure mainly concerns imports of wine, olive oil, fruits and vegetables, and will apply to products from the occupied West Bank "including East Jerusalem" and occupied areas of the Golan Heights, Oslo said. Watch | Israeli coalition suffers loss and face uncertainty Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt stressed in an interview with Norwegian news agency NTB that this in no way constituted a boycott of Israel. "Norway has good relations with Israel," she added. "That must continue." The European Commission recommended its member states follow this practice in 2015, a decision confirmed by the European Court of Justice in 2019. Norway said that the principle behind its decision, as set out in the 2019 ruling, is that consumers should not be deceived by misleading labelling on the origin or products. Also read | Ending Israel's occupation key to halting violence: UN report During the Trump administration, the United States announced that goods made in Israeli settlements in the occupied territories could be labelled Israeli. The settlements in the occupied territories are illegal under international law, but have continued under successive Israeli governments since 1967. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Norway to label products from Israeli settlements

A couple of hours after Israeli air strikes hit south of Damascus, Syria halted flights from&nbsp;Damascus International Airport, as reported by Reuters, quoting the transport ministry.

On Friday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights claimed that the Israeli bombing had damaged the runway, which initially targeted the "warehouses of Iranian militias" near the airport.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-unsc-informal-meet-india-expresses-concern-over-turkish-actions-in-northern-syria-484867">At UNSC informal meet, India expresses concern over Turkish actions in northern Syria</a>

An Israeli military spokesperson later declined the comment.

The statement released by the transport ministry did not associate with the Israeli attack; however, it cited technical reasons regarding the airport's shut down.

Watch |&nbsp;After Russia-Syria air strike simulation drills, Turkey gears up for offensive

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A Syrian military official told the state news agency that although the air defences of Syria obstructed the Israeli missiles, downing most of them, the early morning attack resulted in one civilian injury and some material damage as well.

Reuters quoted Cham Wings Airline, a private Syrian carrier that claimed that it was rerouting all its flights to Aleppo International Airport.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-backed-force-in-syria-warn-against-turkish-plans-for-new-attack-484567">US-backed force in Syria warns against Turkish plans of new attack</a>

Israel, for several years, has been attacking what it refers to as &nbsp;Iranian-linked targets in Syria, where the Tehran-backed forces, including Lebanon's Hezbollah, have been stationed to help President Bashar al-Assad.

(with inputs from agencies)

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A couple of hours after Israeli air strikes hit south of Damascus, Syria halted flights from Damascus International Airport, as reported by Reuters, quoting the transport ministry.

A couple of hours after Israeli air strikes hit south of Damascus, Syria halted flights from Damascus International Airport, as reported by Reuters, quoting the transport ministry. On Friday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights claimed that the Israeli bombing had damaged the runway, which initially targeted the "warehouses of Iranian militias" near the airport. Also read | At UNSC informal meet, India expresses concern over Turkish actions in northern Syria An Israeli military spokesperson later declined the comment. The statement released by the transport ministry did not associate with the Israeli attack; however, it cited technical reasons regarding the airport's shut down. Watch | After Russia-Syria air strike simulation drills, Turkey gears up for offensive A Syrian military official told the state news agency that although the air defences of Syria obstructed the Israeli missiles, downing most of them, the early morning attack resulted in one civilian injury and some material damage as well. Reuters quoted Cham Wings Airline, a private Syrian carrier that claimed that it was rerouting all its flights to Aleppo International Airport. Also read | US-backed force in Syria warns against Turkish plans of new attack Israel, for several years, has been attacking what it refers to as Iranian-linked targets in Syria, where the Tehran-backed forces, including Lebanon's Hezbollah, have been stationed to help President Bashar al-Assad. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Syria halts flights to Damascus, hours after Israeli attack

On New Year, Israel and Gaza Strip seem to be celebrating the moment with a pinch of rocket fire. &nbsp;

After Gaza Strip fired rockets a day earlier, Israel's military launched strikes against militant targets in the Hamas-ruled territory early on Sunday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Three huge explosions could be seen and sounds of fighter jets could be heard in a video filmed in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-closes-ports-to-russian-ships-says-russian-media-441661" hreflang="en">Ukraine closes ports to Russian ships, says Russian media</a>

No immediate confirmation has been given on the casualties. &nbsp;

According to the Israeli military, the attacks looked to destroy a rocket manufacturing facility and a military post of Hamas. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The military also blamed the militant group for any violence emerging from its territory. &nbsp;

The airstrikes come in retaliation after two rockets were fired from Gaza on Saturday. They had landed in the Mediterranean Sea off central Israel. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-thousands-mark-2020-killing-of-iran-general-qassem-soleimani-441653" hreflang="en">Iraq: Thousands mark 2020 killing of Iran general Qassem Soleimani</a>

As the militant groups in Gaza often test-fire missiles towards the sea, it may be unclear whether the rockets looked to hit Israel or not. &nbsp;

Till now, there were no reports of any casualty or damage from the Saturday's rocket fire. &nbsp;

In Gaza, Palestinian militants shot and injured an Israeli civilian near security fence on Wednesday. Later, Israel gave a reply in tank fire targeting several Hamas sites. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

On New Year, Israel and Gaza Strip seem to be celebrating the moment with a pinch of rocket fire. After Gaza Strip fired rockets a day earlier, Israel's military launched strikes against militant targets in the Hamas-ruled territory early on Sunday.

On New Year, Israel and Gaza Strip seem to be celebrating the moment with a pinch of rocket fire. After Gaza Strip fired rockets a day earlier, Israel's military launched strikes against militant targets in the Hamas-ruled territory early on Sunday. Three huge explosions could be seen and sounds of fighter jets could be heard in a video filmed in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip. Also Read: Ukraine closes ports to Russian ships, says Russian media No immediate confirmation has been given on the casualties. According to the Israeli military, the attacks looked to destroy a rocket manufacturing facility and a military post of Hamas. The military also blamed the militant group for any violence emerging from its territory. The airstrikes come in retaliation after two rockets were fired from Gaza on Saturday. They had landed in the Mediterranean Sea off central Israel. Also Read: Iraq: Thousands mark 2020 killing of Iran general Qassem Soleimani As the militant groups in Gaza often test-fire missiles towards the sea, it may be unclear whether the rockets looked to hit Israel or not. Till now, there were no reports of any casualty or damage from the Saturday's rocket fire. In Gaza, Palestinian militants shot and injured an Israeli civilian near security fence on Wednesday. Later, Israel gave a reply in tank fire targeting several Hamas sites. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli military, Gaza militants 'celebrate' New Year with exchange of rocket fire

An Israeli airstrike hit a shipment of Iranian weapons in the Syrian port of Latakia Tuesday, in the first such&nbsp;attack&nbsp;on the key facility, a war monitor said.

The Israeli raid "directly targeted an Iranian weapons shipment in the container yard," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

Syrian state media reported the strike on the container yard at Latakia port without specifying what was targeted.

The Observatory, a UK-based organisation with a wide network of sources on the ground across Syria, said the raid triggered a series of explosions.

It reported "huge material losses" but added there were no immediate reports of casualties.

According to the Syrian state news agency SANA, the strike occurred at 1:23 am (2323 GMT Monday).

"Our air defences repelled the Israeli aggression in Latakia," it said, adding that a number of containers caught fire in the strike.

Latakia is the northernmost of Syria's main ports, and lies around 230 kilometres (140 miles) north of Damascus.

Photos and footage published by SANA showed a fire in the yard but state television said later that firefighters had brought the blaze under control.

Israel&nbsp;rarely comments on the airstrikes it carries out in Syria but has said repeatedly it will not allow its archfoe Iran to extend its footprint in Syria.

Since civil war broke out in Syria in 2011,&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;has carried out hundreds of airstrikes on Syrian territory, targeting government positions as well as allied Iran-backed forces and Hezbollah fighters.

On November 24, Israeli missile strikes in the west of Homs province killed five people, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

In two separate Israeli attacks in October, five pro-Iranian militiamen were killed near the Syrian capital Damascus while nine pro-government fighters were killed near the T4 airbase east of Palmyra in central Syria, the Observatory said.

Iran has been a key supporter of the Syrian government in the decades-old conflict.

It finances, arms and commands a number of Syrian and foreign militia groups fighting alongside the regular armed forces, chief among them Lebanon's powerful Hezbollah group.

Tuesday's strike came as Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad wrapped up a visit to Tehran, where he met with top officials to discuss deepening ties.

In 2019, Syria announced it was planning to turn over the container terminal at Latakia port to Iran.

Earlier this year, Iran said it was planning to establish a direct shipping line between Latakia and one of its southern ports.

The war in Syria is estimated to have killed nearly half a million people and displaced millions more since it began with a brutal crackdown on anti-government protests in 2011.

An Israeli airstrike hit a shipment of Iranian weapons in the Syrian port of Latakia Tuesday, in the first such attack on the key facility, a war monitor said. The Israeli raid "directly targeted an Iranian weapons shipment in the container yard," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

An Israeli airstrike hit a shipment of Iranian weapons in the Syrian port of Latakia Tuesday, in the first such attack on the key facility, a war monitor said. The Israeli raid "directly targeted an Iranian weapons shipment in the container yard," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. Syrian state media reported the strike on the container yard at Latakia port without specifying what was targeted. The Observatory, a UK-based organisation with a wide network of sources on the ground across Syria, said the raid triggered a series of explosions. It reported "huge material losses" but added there were no immediate reports of casualties. According to the Syrian state news agency SANA, the strike occurred at 1:23 am (2323 GMT Monday). "Our air defences repelled the Israeli aggression in Latakia," it said, adding that a number of containers caught fire in the strike. Latakia is the northernmost of Syria's main ports, and lies around 230 kilometres (140 miles) north of Damascus. Photos and footage published by SANA showed a fire in the yard but state television said later that firefighters had brought the blaze under control. Israel rarely comments on the airstrikes it carries out in Syria but has said repeatedly it will not allow its archfoe Iran to extend its footprint in Syria. Since civil war broke out in Syria in 2011, Israel has carried out hundreds of airstrikes on Syrian territory, targeting government positions as well as allied Iran-backed forces and Hezbollah fighters. On November 24, Israeli missile strikes in the west of Homs province killed five people, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. In two separate Israeli attacks in October, five pro-Iranian militiamen were killed near the Syrian capital Damascus while nine pro-government fighters were killed near the T4 airbase east of Palmyra in central Syria, the Observatory said. Iran has been a key supporter of the Syrian government in the decades-old conflict. It finances, arms and commands a number of Syrian and foreign militia groups fighting alongside the regular armed forces, chief among them Lebanon's powerful Hezbollah group. Tuesday's strike came as Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad wrapped up a visit to Tehran, where he met with top officials to discuss deepening ties. In 2019, Syria announced it was planning to turn over the container terminal at Latakia port to Iran. Earlier this year, Iran said it was planning to establish a direct shipping line between Latakia and one of its southern ports. The war in Syria is estimated to have killed nearly half a million people and displaced millions more since it began with a brutal crackdown on anti-government protests in 2011.

Israeli airstrike hits Iran weapons shipment in Syrian port: Report

86 year old Salina Steinfield was crowned 'miss holocaust survivor' in an annual Israeli beauty pageant. The competition honours women who endured the horrors of the Nazi genocide.

86 year old Salina Steinfield  crowned 'miss holocaust survivor'

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday called on Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and discussed ways to enhance the bilateral relationship besides exchanging views on regional and global issues of mutual concern.

Jaishankar, who is currently on a five-day visit to Israel, called on the two leaders separately. 
This is Jaishankar's first visit to Israel as External Affairs Minister. He is visiting the country at the invitation of Alternate Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Yair Lapid.

On Tuesday, Jaishankar met with Israeli Parliament Speaker Mickey Levy and the two leaders discussed at length the common challenges faced by the two countries like radicalisation, and took stock of the developments in the region.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-involved-in-very-intensive-visit-says-naor-gilon-israels-new-ambassador-to-india-to-wion-421818">Jaishankar involved in very intensive visit, says Naor Gilon Israel's new ambassador to India to WION</a>

On Monday, Jaishankar held "very productive talks" with Alternate Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Yair Lapid duringh which the two countries agreed to resume negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) from next month with an aim to conclude the long-pending deal by next June.

India and Israel elevated bilateral relations to a strategic partnership during the historic visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel in July 2017.

Since then, the relationship between the two countries has focused on expanding knowledge-based partnership, which includes collaboration in innovation and research, including boosting the 'Make in India' initiative.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday called on Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and discussed ways to enhance the bilateral relationship besides exchanging views on regional and global issues of mutual concern.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday called on Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and discussed ways to enhance the bilateral relationship besides exchanging views on regional and global issues of mutual concern. Jaishankar, who is currently on a five-day visit to Israel, called on the two leaders separately. This is Jaishankar's first visit to Israel as External Affairs Minister. He is visiting the country at the invitation of Alternate Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Yair Lapid. On Tuesday, Jaishankar met with Israeli Parliament Speaker Mickey Levy and the two leaders discussed at length the common challenges faced by the two countries like radicalisation, and took stock of the developments in the region. Also Read | Jaishankar involved in very intensive visit, says Naor Gilon Israel's new ambassador to India to WION On Monday, Jaishankar held "very productive talks" with Alternate Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Yair Lapid duringh which the two countries agreed to resume negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) from next month with an aim to conclude the long-pending deal by next June. India and Israel elevated bilateral relations to a strategic partnership during the historic visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel in July 2017. Since then, the relationship between the two countries has focused on expanding knowledge-based partnership, which includes collaboration in innovation and research, including boosting the 'Make in India' initiative.

Jaishankar calls on Israeli Prez, PM; discusses bilateral relations

The United States is working to expand normalisation agreements between Israel and Arab nations, known as the Abraham Accords, and hopes restoring such ties can be leveraged to advance progress on the Israeli and Palestinian conflict, senior State Department officials said on Tuesday.

In a briefing with reporters previewing US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken's meetings on Wednesday with his Israeli and Emirati counterparts, officials repeated that the Abraham Accords were not a substitute for the two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-uae-ministers-in-us-as-biden-seeks-to-expand-normalisation-420266">&nbsp;Israel, UAE ministers in US as Biden seeks to expand normalisation&nbsp;</a>

"We continue to welcome the economic cooperation between Israel and all countries in the region. We hope that normalisation can be leveraged to advance progress on the Israeli-Palestinian tracks," a senior State Department official, speaking on the condition of anonymity said.

Blinken will first meet with Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and United Arab Emirates Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan separately at the State Department on Wednesday. He will then host a trilateral meeting with both of them, the first of its kind.

The leaders of Israel, the UAE and Bahrain signed the Abraham Accords at the White House last September. The following month, Israel and Sudan announced they would normalize relations, and Morocco established diplomatic ties with Israel in December, after US&nbsp;President Joe Biden defeated his predecessor Donald Trump in the election.

Palestinian officials said they felt betrayed by their Arab brethren for reaching deals with Israel without first demanding progress toward the creation of a Palestinian state. Until last year, only two Arab states - Egypt and Jordan - had forged full ties with Israel.

The US&nbsp;officials did not say precisely how Washington aimed to use the normalisation agreements as a tool to make progress on the Israeli-Palestinian issue.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-judges-approval-of-quiet-jewish-prayer-at-al-aqsa-stirs-anger-419092">&nbsp;Israeli judge's approval of 'quiet' Jewish prayer at Al-Aqsa stirs anger</a>

"Biden administration has started out with a clear commitment to the two-state solution. We continue on with that commitment. We seek to advance as we can, when we can, as best we can," one of the US&nbsp;officials said.

Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, a nationalist atop a cross-partisan coalition, opposes Palestinian statehood.

The three countries will also be setting up two new working groups at the meeting, US&nbsp;officials said, with one group focusing on religious coexistence and the other on water and energy issues.

"These working groups will seek to realise that promise to link up to important US&nbsp;partners in the region and find new ways to solve old problems together, in Israel and the UAE but also across the region," one of the US&nbsp;officials said.

The United States is working to expand normalisation agreements between Israel and Arab nations, known as the Abraham Accords, and hopes restoring such ties can be leveraged to advance progress on the Israeli and Palestinian conflict, senior State Department officials said on Tuesday.

The United States is working to expand normalisation agreements between Israel and Arab nations, known as the Abraham Accords, and hopes restoring such ties can be leveraged to advance progress on the Israeli and Palestinian conflict, senior State Department officials said on Tuesday. In a briefing with reporters previewing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's meetings on Wednesday with his Israeli and Emirati counterparts, officials repeated that the Abraham Accords were not a substitute for the two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians. Also Read | Israel, UAE ministers in US as Biden seeks to expand normalisation "We continue to welcome the economic cooperation between Israel and all countries in the region. We hope that normalisation can be leveraged to advance progress on the Israeli-Palestinian tracks," a senior State Department official, speaking on the condition of anonymity said. Blinken will first meet with Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and United Arab Emirates Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan separately at the State Department on Wednesday. He will then host a trilateral meeting with both of them, the first of its kind. The leaders of Israel, the UAE and Bahrain signed the Abraham Accords at the White House last September. The following month, Israel and Sudan announced they would normalize relations, and Morocco established diplomatic ties with Israel in December, after US President Joe Biden defeated his predecessor Donald Trump in the election. Palestinian officials said they felt betrayed by their Arab brethren for reaching deals with Israel without first demanding progress toward the creation of a Palestinian state. Until last year, only two Arab states - Egypt and Jordan - had forged full ties with Israel. The US officials did not say precisely how Washington aimed to use the normalisation agreements as a tool to make progress on the Israeli-Palestinian issue. Also Read | Israeli judge's approval of 'quiet' Jewish prayer at Al-Aqsa stirs anger "Biden administration has started out with a clear commitment to the two-state solution. We continue on with that commitment. We seek to advance as we can, when we can, as best we can," one of the US officials said. Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, a nationalist atop a cross-partisan coalition, opposes Palestinian statehood. The three countries will also be setting up two new working groups at the meeting, US officials said, with one group focusing on religious coexistence and the other on water and energy issues. "These working groups will seek to realise that promise to link up to important US partners in the region and find new ways to solve old problems together, in Israel and the UAE but also across the region," one of the US officials said.

US hopes Abraham Accords will help Israeli-Palestinian issue: Officials

Germany's lame-duck chancellor, Angela Merkel, was in Israel on Sunday for a final visit before leaving office.

The visit caps Merkel's 16 years in office, which were characterised by near unwavering support for Israel.

Following an inconclusive election last month, her eventual successor&nbsp;to be determined in lengthy coalition talks &nbsp;is not expected to change that approach.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-to-embark-on-three-nation-tour-today-419537">&nbsp;Jaishankar to embark on three-nation tour today</a>

Merkel was scheduled Sunday to meet Israel's new prime minister, Naftali Bennett, and visit Israel's national Holocaust memorial, Yad Vashem.

Her talks with Israeli leaders were expected to focus on Iran's nuclear program.

Germany was a leading player in the 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran. The deal fell apart after then-President Donald Trump, with Israel's support, withdrew from the agreement in 2018. The Biden administration has been trying to revive that deal over Israeli objections.

Israel was formed in the wake of the Holocaust in 1948 and the two countries only established diplomatic ties in 1965.

But over the decades those ties have warmed.

Germany is Israel's largest trading partner in Europe and the German government has provided solid support to Israel during wars and diplomatic crises.

Merkel and the former Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, had a sometimes cool relationship due to poor personal chemistry and differences over the Palestinian issue.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-special-envoy-of-pm-modi-mos-lekhi-to-visit-serbia-to-attend-60th-anniversary-of-nam-419538">As special envoy of PM Modi, MoS Lekhi to visit Serbia to attend 60th anniversary of NAM</a>

Germany supports the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, while both Netanyahu and Bennett do not.

But these differences have done little to upset the broader partnership.

There were no plans for Merkel to meet Netanyahu, who is now Israel's opposition leader.

She also was not scheduled to meet with Palestinian leaders in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

Oded Eran, a former Israeli ambassador to the European Union, said that Merkel built on the policies of her predecessors.

He cited security cooperations, defending Israel against criticism in the European Union and a tough stance on antisemitism.

Her predecessors started, but she certainly cemented it and brought it to new levels,&nbsp;he said.

Merkel was scheduled to visit in August, but the trip was postponed after the crisis in Afghanistan in which the Taliban seized power. She then delayed the visit until after last month's German election.

She now remains in office in a caretaker capacity until a new government is formed, a process that could take weeks or even months.

Merkel's Christian Democratic Union had its worst-ever election result in the September 26 vote and the party's leader, Armin Laschet, has indicated his willingness to step aside.

The center-left Social Democrats, the environmentalist Greens and the pro-business Free Democrats held their first round of talks Thursday on forming a possible coalition. If they succeed, the alliance would send Merkel's bloc into opposition.

Germany's lame-duck chancellor, Angela Merkel, was in Israel on Sunday for a final visit before leaving office. The visit caps Merkel's 16 years in office, which were characterised by near unwavering support for Israel.

Germany's lame-duck chancellor, Angela Merkel, was in Israel on Sunday for a final visit before leaving office. The visit caps Merkel's 16 years in office, which were characterised by near unwavering support for Israel. Following an inconclusive election last month, her eventual successor to be determined in lengthy coalition talks is not expected to change that approach. Also Read | Jaishankar to embark on three-nation tour today Merkel was scheduled Sunday to meet Israel's new prime minister, Naftali Bennett, and visit Israel's national Holocaust memorial, Yad Vashem. Her talks with Israeli leaders were expected to focus on Iran's nuclear program. Germany was a leading player in the 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran. The deal fell apart after then-President Donald Trump, with Israel's support, withdrew from the agreement in 2018. The Biden administration has been trying to revive that deal over Israeli objections. Israel was formed in the wake of the Holocaust in 1948 and the two countries only established diplomatic ties in 1965. But over the decades those ties have warmed. Germany is Israel's largest trading partner in Europe and the German government has provided solid support to Israel during wars and diplomatic crises. Merkel and the former Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, had a sometimes cool relationship due to poor personal chemistry and differences over the Palestinian issue. Also Read | As special envoy of PM Modi, MoS Lekhi to visit Serbia to attend 60th anniversary of NAM Germany supports the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, while both Netanyahu and Bennett do not. But these differences have done little to upset the broader partnership. There were no plans for Merkel to meet Netanyahu, who is now Israel's opposition leader. She also was not scheduled to meet with Palestinian leaders in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Oded Eran, a former Israeli ambassador to the European Union, said that Merkel built on the policies of her predecessors. He cited security cooperations, defending Israel against criticism in the European Union and a tough stance on antisemitism. Her predecessors started, but she certainly cemented it and brought it to new levels, he said. Merkel was scheduled to visit in August, but the trip was postponed after the crisis in Afghanistan in which the Taliban seized power. She then delayed the visit until after last month's German election. She now remains in office in a caretaker capacity until a new government is formed, a process that could take weeks or even months. Merkel's Christian Democratic Union had its worst-ever election result in the September 26 vote and the party's leader, Armin Laschet, has indicated his willingness to step aside. The center-left Social Democrats, the environmentalist Greens and the pro-business Free Democrats held their first round of talks Thursday on forming a possible coalition. If they succeed, the alliance would send Merkel's bloc into opposition.

Germany's Merkel to meet Israeli leaders in farewell visit

In a shocking development, at least six Palestinian nationals have escaped from a high-security&nbsp;Israeli jail on Monday. These inmates were members of militant groups, said the officials, as per&nbsp;report of&nbsp;Israel's Kan public radio.

Five of the prisoners belonged to the Islamic Jihad movement and one was a former commander of a militant group affiliated with the mainstream Fatah party,&nbsp;the report said.&nbsp;A Palestinian prisoners organisation said that four of the men were serving life sentences.

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has called it a grave incident.&nbsp;According to the Bennett's office, PM spoke with Israel's internal security minister and "emphasised that this is a grave incident that requires an across-the-board effort by the security forces" to find the escapees.

Watch:&nbsp;Taliban claim to defeat NRF, takeover Panjshir

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As per the report, the six inmates were cell mates and dug a tunnel beneath the sink&nbsp;to flee the Gilboa prison in northern Israel. The security forces have launched a search operation to nab the culprits.

Service's northern commander Arik Yaacov&nbsp;said the escapees appeared to have opened an hole from their cell toilet floor to access passages formed by the prison's construction, Reuters reported.

The prison is about 4 km (2 miles) from the boundary with the occupied West Bank. It houses Palestinians convicted or suspected of anti-Israeli activities.

An Israel Prison Service statement on the incident said an alert was sounded at roughly 3 am when locals spotted "suspicious figures" in the area surrounding Gilboa Prison.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnsons-brother-conned-over-gold-mine-in-gobi-desert-411047" hreflang="en">UK PM Boris Johnson's brother conned over 'gold mine in Gobi desert'</a>

A spokesman for the police said security forces believe&nbsp;the fugitives may try to reach the West Bank, where the Palestinian Authority exercises limited self-rule&nbsp;or the Jordanian border, which is some 14 km (9 miles) to the east.

It also confirmed that the escapees included Zakaria Zubeidi, former head of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades in the flashpoint city of Jenin in the occupied West Bank.

Some Palestinian factions have hailed the jailbreak. "This great victory proves again that the will and determination of our brave soldiers inside the prisons of the enemy cannot be defeated," said&nbsp;Islamist militant group Hamas&nbsp;spokesman&nbsp;Fawzi Barhoum.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a shocking development, at least six Palestinian nationals have escaped from a high-security Israeli jail on Monday. These inmates were members of militant groups, said the officials, as per report of Israel's Kan public radio.

In a shocking development, at least six Palestinian nationals have escaped from a high-security Israeli jail on Monday. These inmates were members of militant groups, said the officials, as per report of Israel's Kan public radio. Five of the prisoners belonged to the Islamic Jihad movement and one was a former commander of a militant group affiliated with the mainstream Fatah party, the report said. A Palestinian prisoners organisation said that four of the men were serving life sentences. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has called it a grave incident. According to the Bennett's office, PM spoke with Israel's internal security minister and "emphasised that this is a grave incident that requires an across-the-board effort by the security forces" to find the escapees. Watch: Taliban claim to defeat NRF, takeover Panjshir × As per the report, the six inmates were cell mates and dug a tunnel beneath the sink to flee the Gilboa prison in northern Israel. The security forces have launched a search operation to nab the culprits. Service's northern commander Arik Yaacov said the escapees appeared to have opened an hole from their cell toilet floor to access passages formed by the prison's construction, Reuters reported. The prison is about 4 km (2 miles) from the boundary with the occupied West Bank. It houses Palestinians convicted or suspected of anti-Israeli activities. An Israel Prison Service statement on the incident said an alert was sounded at roughly 3 am when locals spotted "suspicious figures" in the area surrounding Gilboa Prison. Also Read: UK PM Boris Johnson's brother conned over 'gold mine in Gobi desert' A spokesman for the police said security forces believe the fugitives may try to reach the West Bank, where the Palestinian Authority exercises limited self-rule or the Jordanian border, which is some 14 km (9 miles) to the east. It also confirmed that the escapees included Zakaria Zubeidi, former head of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades in the flashpoint city of Jenin in the occupied West Bank. Some Palestinian factions have hailed the jailbreak. "This great victory proves again that the will and determination of our brave soldiers inside the prisons of the enemy cannot be defeated," said Islamist militant group Hamas spokesman Fawzi Barhoum. (With inputs from agencies)

Six Palestinians including top ex-militant flee from Israeli jail, say officials

With flashing lasers, honking horns and choking&nbsp;smoke&nbsp;from burning tyres, the latest tactics used by Palestinian protesters are dusk till dawn rallies to make life unbearable for Israeli&nbsp;settlers.

"They will not stay on our land," said one protester, a scarf wrapped around his face to conceal his identity from Israeli troops, near the small Palestinian town of Beita in the occupied West Bank.

Across the valley is the newly built Israeli&nbsp;settlers' outpost of&nbsp;Eviatar.

Some 50 families arrived last month, erecting huts and tents and bringing in trailer caravans in defiance of international law and even Israeli restrictions.

"When they set up their base... we thought they would stay a day or two," said Raad, a young man from Beita with a thick black beard, who declined to give his second name for fear of arrest.

But in less than 48 hours, "they put in place more than 20 caravans -- which means that they intend to stay," he added.

Palestinians&nbsp;hold regular protests on Fridays, the weekly day of rest, against Israel's occupation of the West Bank, which stretches back to the Six-Day War of 1967.

But in recent days, the residents of Beita -- a town of some 17,00 people south of Nablus -- have switched tactics.

Instead of mobilising during the day, they hold nighttime protests to keep the&nbsp;settlers&nbsp;awake.

'Carcinogenic&nbsp;smoke'

Jewish&nbsp;settlers&nbsp;arrived on the hill outside Beita in early May.

Soon after, daily protests began, which repeatedly ended in clashes with Israeli troops.

Four&nbsp;Palestinians&nbsp;including a teenager have been killed, and more than 300 injured, the Palestinian Red Crescent said.

According to villagers, five people have been arrested since the night rallies began.

When the evening light slants through the olive trees, trucks arrive piled with tyres, and young men drag them onto roaring pyres.

The sky turns dark, and the air unbreathable, the wind blowing it towards the outpost.

Later, protesters start small fires and wave burning torches, lighting the hillside opposite the settlement with a terrifying wall of flames.

Some direct intense green laser beams towards the settlement, dancing the light at the windows.

Others set off fireworks, the explosions echoing above.

Tsvi Succot, one of the outpost's founders, called the protests "simply crazy", in a post on Twitter.

"We're living in a cloud of carcinogenic&nbsp;smoke...&nbsp;Kids are coughing and getting sick," Succot said.

"They're talking about evicting us, destroying our community. This can't go on. It's their village that should be destroyed."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/go-to-india-or-us-philippines-president-rodrigo-duterte-warns-anti-vaxxers-393537">Also Read |&nbsp;'Go to India or US': Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte warns anti-vaxxers</a>

Test for new government&nbsp;

Under international law, all Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank -- where some 650,000 Israelis now live -- are illegal.

But Eviatar, named after a settler stabbed to death near Beita by a Palestinian in 2013, also breaches all Israeli restrictions too.

The first&nbsp;settlers&nbsp;arrived after a young settler was shot dead by a Palestinian nearby.

Soon after, daily protests began.

Defence Minister Benny Gantz ordered the settlement be removed, but the decision was frozen by Benjamin Netanyahu, then prime minister.

Earlier this month, Netanyahu was ousted by right-wing nationalist Naftali Bennett.

But while Bennett himself once led a settler organisation, he is now the prime minister of an ideologically disparate coalition government with sharply divided opinions.

The settlement could pose a major political test. It is "bad for the possibility of future peace", Israeli anti-occupation group&nbsp;Peace Now said in a statement.

"A small group of people is creating facts on the ground that affect dramatically Israel's security and its foreign policy without any authority," Peace Now added. "The new government must not accept that."

'Guardians of the Mountain'

The protesters are convinced their tactic will work.

"They will leave," said Ghaleb Abu Zaitoun, 77, contemplating the thick&nbsp;smoke, a white keffiyeh scarf around his face.

"This peaceful action will force them to leave," he added. "It is better than a physical confrontation because we do not lose our young people."

Many of the men -- generally considerably younger than Zaitoun -- wear scarves around their faces, and shirts emblazoned with the slogan "Guardians of the Mountain" on their backs.

One young man, his face masked and clothes smeared in soot, rolled another tyre into the flames.

"We have weapons, we could use them," he said, but he added that the strength of the protest was that it was carried&nbsp;out&nbsp;by local residents, not militia forces.

"We will continue to do this until the&nbsp;smoke&nbsp;from the rubber hits their rooms," he said.

When the&nbsp;Palestinians&nbsp;come too close to the outpost, Israeli soldiers fire tear gas to drive them back.

Then as dawn breaks, everyone goes home to catch some sleep, ready to start once again at dusk.

With flashing lasers, honking horns and choking smoke from burning tyres, the latest tactics used by Palestinian protesters are dusk till dawn rallies to make life unbearable for Israeli settlers.

With flashing lasers, honking horns and choking smoke from burning tyres, the latest tactics used by Palestinian protesters are dusk till dawn rallies to make life unbearable for Israeli settlers. "They will not stay on our land," said one protester, a scarf wrapped around his face to conceal his identity from Israeli troops, near the small Palestinian town of Beita in the occupied West Bank. Across the valley is the newly built Israeli settlers' outpost of Eviatar. Some 50 families arrived last month, erecting huts and tents and bringing in trailer caravans in defiance of international law and even Israeli restrictions. "When they set up their base... we thought they would stay a day or two," said Raad, a young man from Beita with a thick black beard, who declined to give his second name for fear of arrest. But in less than 48 hours, "they put in place more than 20 caravans -- which means that they intend to stay," he added. Palestinians hold regular protests on Fridays, the weekly day of rest, against Israel's occupation of the West Bank, which stretches back to the Six-Day War of 1967. But in recent days, the residents of Beita -- a town of some 17,00 people south of Nablus -- have switched tactics. Instead of mobilising during the day, they hold nighttime protests to keep the settlers awake. 'Carcinogenic smoke' Jewish settlers arrived on the hill outside Beita in early May. Soon after, daily protests began, which repeatedly ended in clashes with Israeli troops. Four Palestinians including a teenager have been killed, and more than 300 injured, the Palestinian Red Crescent said. According to villagers, five people have been arrested since the night rallies began. When the evening light slants through the olive trees, trucks arrive piled with tyres, and young men drag them onto roaring pyres. The sky turns dark, and the air unbreathable, the wind blowing it towards the outpost. Later, protesters start small fires and wave burning torches, lighting the hillside opposite the settlement with a terrifying wall of flames. Some direct intense green laser beams towards the settlement, dancing the light at the windows. Others set off fireworks, the explosions echoing above. Tsvi Succot, one of the outpost's founders, called the protests "simply crazy", in a post on Twitter. "We're living in a cloud of carcinogenic smoke... Kids are coughing and getting sick," Succot said. "They're talking about evicting us, destroying our community. This can't go on. It's their village that should be destroyed." Also Read | 'Go to India or US': Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte warns anti-vaxxers Test for new government Under international law, all Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank -- where some 650,000 Israelis now live -- are illegal. But Eviatar, named after a settler stabbed to death near Beita by a Palestinian in 2013, also breaches all Israeli restrictions too. The first settlers arrived after a young settler was shot dead by a Palestinian nearby. Soon after, daily protests began. Defence Minister Benny Gantz ordered the settlement be removed, but the decision was frozen by Benjamin Netanyahu, then prime minister. Earlier this month, Netanyahu was ousted by right-wing nationalist Naftali Bennett. But while Bennett himself once led a settler organisation, he is now the prime minister of an ideologically disparate coalition government with sharply divided opinions. The settlement could pose a major political test. It is "bad for the possibility of future peace", Israeli anti-occupation group Peace Now said in a statement. "A small group of people is creating facts on the ground that affect dramatically Israel's security and its foreign policy without any authority," Peace Now added. "The new government must not accept that." 'Guardians of the Mountain' The protesters are convinced their tactic will work. "They will leave," said Ghaleb Abu Zaitoun, 77, contemplating the thick smoke, a white keffiyeh scarf around his face. "This peaceful action will force them to leave," he added. "It is better than a physical confrontation because we do not lose our young people." Many of the men -- generally considerably younger than Zaitoun -- wear scarves around their faces, and shirts emblazoned with the slogan "Guardians of the Mountain" on their backs. One young man, his face masked and clothes smeared in soot, rolled another tyre into the flames. "We have weapons, we could use them," he said, but he added that the strength of the protest was that it was carried out by local residents, not militia forces. "We will continue to do this until the smoke from the rubber hits their rooms," he said. When the Palestinians come too close to the outpost, Israeli soldiers fire tear gas to drive them back. Then as dawn breaks, everyone goes home to catch some sleep, ready to start once again at dusk.

Tyres, fires, lasers: Palestinians smoke out settlers

An Israeli minister on Sunday rubbished Iranian allegations that it would attack US troops in Iraq to spark a war in the region. Yuval Steinitz, Israeli energy minister said that the allegations amounted to "nonsense". He was speaking on Kan public radio. Sunday (January 3) marked the first anniversary of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's assassination at the hands of the US in Baghdad.

Steinitz said that it was Israel that needed to be on alert for possible Iranian strikes.

There was a lot of muscle-flexing from Iran in the run-up to assassination anniversary. Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif had tweeted on January 2 that Israel was "plotting" an attack on US troops stationed in Iraq to spark a war in the region.

"New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. Be careful of a trap, @realDonaldTrump. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs." tweeted Zarif.

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New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. 
 
Be careful of a trap, <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs.
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&nbsp;

As Sunday marked completion of a year of Soleimani assassination, protests were observed in Iran, Iraq and other countries.

Qasem Soleimani was one of the most important military commanders responsible for rising Iranian influence in the region. His assassination was a huge blow to Iran's proxies and security apparatus.

The mourners gathered near Baghdad airport on Saturday night said they were honouring their "martyrs" and used strong words for the US. The site of Soleimani's assassination is still pockmarked by shrapnels.

"We tell America and the enemies of Islam that they can inflict the greatest sacrifices on us, but we will continue to resist despite the bloodshed," said Hashed supporter Batul Najjar.

The Hashed -- factions of which Washington has blamed for rocket strikes against its embassy and troops in Iraq -- has increasingly challenged Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, whom it accuses of having helped plot the drone strikes.&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)

An Israeli minister on Sunday rubbished Iranian allegations that it would attack US troops in Iraq to spark a war in the region. Yuval Steinitz, Israeli energy minister said that the allegations amounted to "nonsense".

An Israeli minister on Sunday rubbished Iranian allegations that it would attack US troops in Iraq to spark a war in the region. Yuval Steinitz, Israeli energy minister said that the allegations amounted to "nonsense". He was speaking on Kan public radio. Sunday (January 3) marked the first anniversary of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's assassination at the hands of the US in Baghdad. Steinitz said that it was Israel that needed to be on alert for possible Iranian strikes. There was a lot of muscle-flexing from Iran in the run-up to assassination anniversary. Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif had tweeted on January 2 that Israel was "plotting" an attack on US troops stationed in Iraq to spark a war in the region. "New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. Be careful of a trap, @realDonaldTrump. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs." tweeted Zarif. New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. Be careful of a trap, @realDonaldTrump. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) January 2, 2021 × As Sunday marked completion of a year of Soleimani assassination, protests were observed in Iran, Iraq and other countries. Qasem Soleimani was one of the most important military commanders responsible for rising Iranian influence in the region. His assassination was a huge blow to Iran's proxies and security apparatus. The mourners gathered near Baghdad airport on Saturday night said they were honouring their "martyrs" and used strong words for the US. The site of Soleimani's assassination is still pockmarked by shrapnels. "We tell America and the enemies of Islam that they can inflict the greatest sacrifices on us, but we will continue to resist despite the bloodshed," said Hashed supporter Batul Najjar. The Hashed -- factions of which Washington has blamed for rocket strikes against its embassy and troops in Iraq -- has increasingly challenged Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, whom it accuses of having helped plot the drone strikes. (With agency inputs)

Iran's allegations are 'nonsense', says Israeli minister

Al Qaeda’s second-in-command was killed in Iran in August by Israeli operatives acting at the behest of the United States, a report has claimed.

The New York Times reported on Friday, citing intelligence officials, that Abdullah Ahmed Abdullah, who went by the nom de guerre Abu Muhammad al-Masri, was gunned down by two men on a motorcycle in Tehran more than three months ago.

Tehran has, however, denied the report saying there were no al Qaeda "terrorists" on Iranian soil.

"From time to time, Washington and Tel Aviv try to tie Iran to such groups by lying and leaking false information to the media in order to avoid responsibility for the criminal activities of this group and other terrorist groups in the region," Iran's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Abdullash was accused of helping to mastermind the 1998 bombings of two US embassies in Africa.

The killing of Masri, who was seen as a likely successor to al Qaeda’s current leader, Ayman al-Zawahri, was kept secret until now.

The US authorities had been tracking Masri and other al Qaeda operatives in Iran for years, the report said.

Masri was killed along with his daughter, the widow of Osama bin Laden’s son Hamza bin Laden.

Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, who orchestrated the September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States, was killed in a US raid in Pakistan in 2011.

Al Qaeda’s second-in-command was killed in Iran in August by Israeli operatives acting at the behest of the United States, a report has claimed. The New York Times reported on Friday, citing intelligence officials, that Abdullah Ahmed Abdullah, who went by the nom de guerre Abu Muhammad al-Masri, was gunned down by two men on a motorcycle in Tehran more than three months ago.

Al Qaeda’s second-in-command was killed in Iran in August by Israeli operatives acting at the behest of the United States, a report has claimed. The New York Times reported on Friday, citing intelligence officials, that Abdullah Ahmed Abdullah, who went by the nom de guerre Abu Muhammad al-Masri, was gunned down by two men on a motorcycle in Tehran more than three months ago. Tehran has, however, denied the report saying there were no al Qaeda "terrorists" on Iranian soil. "From time to time, Washington and Tel Aviv try to tie Iran to such groups by lying and leaking false information to the media in order to avoid responsibility for the criminal activities of this group and other terrorist groups in the region," Iran's Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Abdullash was accused of helping to mastermind the 1998 bombings of two US embassies in Africa. The killing of Masri, who was seen as a likely successor to al Qaeda’s current leader, Ayman al-Zawahri, was kept secret until now. The US authorities had been tracking Masri and other al Qaeda operatives in Iran for years, the report said. Masri was killed along with his daughter, the widow of Osama bin Laden’s son Hamza bin Laden. Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, who orchestrated the September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States, was killed in a US raid in Pakistan in 2011.

Report says al Qaeda’s No 2 leader was killed in August; Iran refutes claim

President Reuven Rivlin on August 17 extended an invitation to the de facto leader of the United Arab Emirates to visit Israel after the two countries agreed on normalization.

Israeli president invites UAE Crown Prince: Countries move ahead to establish diplomatic ties

Palestinians are worried their restricted access to the salty waters of the Dead Sea and its mineral-rich beaches could be cut further if Israel annexes land in the occupied West Bank.

Israel, citing support from U.S. President Donald Trump, has announced plans to extend sovereignty over parts of the West Bank - including the Jordan Valley, which partly borders the Dead Sea. Palestinians have voiced outrage at the proposal.

The Dead Sea is a popular destination where bathers float in hypersaline waters and use the nutrient-rich mud on their skin. Its shores border Israel, Jordan and the West Bank.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-thousands-march-against-pm-benjamin-netanyahus-plans-303958">Also read|&nbsp;Israel: Thousands march against PM Benjamin Netanyahu's plans</a>

"This place is a blessing for all Palestinians, but if there will be annexation it will be hard for them to reach here. They may need permits," said Musa Farah, a lifeguard at one of the small, Israeli-run resorts that dot the Dead Sea`s West Bank coast.

Even some owners of Israeli resorts - set up after Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Middle East war - are concerned they could lose customers under the annexation plan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-mulls-two-phase-west-bank-annexation-306513">Also read|&nbsp;Israel's Netanyahu mulls two-phase West Bank annexation</a>

"My business will be very much affected," said Dina Dagan, owner of the Biankini Village Resort. "The Israeli government should know that my business depends on the Palestinians who visit here. This place is open for Jews and Arabs."

During peace talks - stalled since 2014 - the Palestinians have sought to gain some control over part of the Dead Sea coastline and set up resorts, which they see as a potential boon for their economy.

The Palestinians have long sought a state in the West Bank and Gaza, with East Jerusalem as its capital. 
Most countries view Israeli settlements in occupied territory as illegal. Israel rejects this.

Palestinians are worried their restricted access to the salty waters of the Dead Sea and its mineral-rich beaches could be cut further if Israel annexes land in the occupied West Bank.

Palestinians are worried their restricted access to the salty waters of the Dead Sea and its mineral-rich beaches could be cut further if Israel annexes land in the occupied West Bank. Israel, citing support from U.S. President Donald Trump, has announced plans to extend sovereignty over parts of the West Bank - including the Jordan Valley, which partly borders the Dead Sea. Palestinians have voiced outrage at the proposal. The Dead Sea is a popular destination where bathers float in hypersaline waters and use the nutrient-rich mud on their skin. Its shores border Israel, Jordan and the West Bank. Also read| Israel: Thousands march against PM Benjamin Netanyahu's plans "This place is a blessing for all Palestinians, but if there will be annexation it will be hard for them to reach here. They may need permits," said Musa Farah, a lifeguard at one of the small, Israeli-run resorts that dot the Dead Sea`s West Bank coast. Even some owners of Israeli resorts - set up after Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Middle East war - are concerned they could lose customers under the annexation plan. Also read| Israel's Netanyahu mulls two-phase West Bank annexation "My business will be very much affected," said Dina Dagan, owner of the Biankini Village Resort. "The Israeli government should know that my business depends on the Palestinians who visit here. This place is open for Jews and Arabs." During peace talks - stalled since 2014 - the Palestinians have sought to gain some control over part of the Dead Sea coastline and set up resorts, which they see as a potential boon for their economy. The Palestinians have long sought a state in the West Bank and Gaza, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Most countries view Israeli settlements in occupied territory as illegal. Israel rejects this.

Palestinians fear Israeli annexation could further limit Dead Sea access

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