Dozens of gunmen from the Islamist militant group Hamas infiltrate southern Israel amid a barrage of rockets from Gaza.

Israel-Palestine Conflict: Israel vows 'mighty vengeance' after deadliest day for 50 years

5,000 rockets from Gaza hit Israel, "State of war" declared

An Israeli drone hit outposts in the Gaza Strip on Friday as violent protests persisted along the separation fence, while in a separate incident, troops shot dead a Palestinian fighter during a raid in the occupied West Bank.

Israeli drone hits Gaza as violent protests rage

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, at the beginning of a cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, said that Israel is set to become the central junction in the global economy and a bridge of peace, thanks to a multinational rail and port deal that promises to reshape trade dynamics.

New rail & port deal positions Israel as global economic hub

The embassy in the capital Manama will replace the first embassy Israel opened in 2021, a year after it established diplomatic relations with Bahrain as part of the United States-brokered Abraham Accords. Under the accords, Israel also established ties with the United Arab Emirates and Morocco.

Israel opens new embassy in Bahrain, agrees to boost trade relations

More than 100 people have been injured in clashes between rival groups of protesters from Eritrea in the Israeli city of Tel Aviv with the police firing warning shots in the air to disperse the demonstrators.

Israel: Police clash with rioting Eritrean rivals

<p>A Palestinian teenager was shot dead by an Israeli police officer after he stabbed and injured a civilian at a light rail station in Jerusalem on Thursday (August 31), said Israeli police and medics.<br />
<br />
This is the latest incident that occurred amid increasing violence in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.<br />
<br />
"A suspect armed with a knife committed a terrorist attack near Shivtei Israel light rail station in Jerusalem," said Israeli police in a statement. "The suspect was neutralised on the spot," it added.<br />
<br />
A border police officer, who was inside a moving tram, saw the attack as it occurred and took action, said the police. He "promptly disembarked from the train and fired", hitting the suspect, they stated.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-who-opened-fire-threw-grenade-at-israeli-forces-shot-dead-614053">Palestinian who opened fire, threw grenade at Israeli forces, shot dead</a></p>

<p>Speaking to AFP, police spokesman Dean Elsdunne said that the "minor" attacker was from east Jerusalem, which is a predominantly Palestinian area.<br />
<br />
The 14-year-old teenager was from east Jerusalem's Beit Hanina neighbourhood and he was pronounced dead by the medical officials, he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Man stabbed by teenage attacker hospitalised</strong></h2>

<p>The Magen David Adom emergency service stated that they treated a 25-year-old man who was stabbed in the back. The injured man was later taken to the hospital. As per a statement issued by Shaare Zedek Hospital, the wounded man was in a "stable" condition.<br />
<br />
Dozens of Israeli security personnel had gathered at the station where many ultra-Orthodox Jews, wearing white shirts and black suits, were also present, as reported by an AFP correspondent. The body of the attacker kept on the ground and wrapped in a blanket was seen by an AFP photographer.<br />
<br />
Ice was used by some security officers to clean the site where blood stains were still present. Palestinian militant group Hamas, which has the Gaza Strip under its control, said that a “heroic” operation was carried out by the attacker at the tram station.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine tension transcends borders: Woman killed near West Bank Hebron</strong></p>

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<p>Videos were posted by many gunmen accusing the Palestinian Authority (PA) for his killing. "We will not keep silent about this act, which aids the occupation forces in arresting and chasing the youths and those (on Israel's) wanted list," said one of the gunmen.<br />
<br />
Spokesperson for the PA security services Talal Dweikat, while speaking to Reuters news agency, said that the gunmen had opened fire at the forces, "prompting security forces to intervene, taking necessary measures to restore order".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A Palestinian teenager was shot dead by an Israeli police officer after he stabbed and injured a civilian at a light rail station in Jerusalem on Thursday (August 31), said Israeli police and medics.

A Palestinian teenager was shot dead by an Israeli police officer after he stabbed and injured a civilian at a light rail station in Jerusalem on Thursday (August 31), said Israeli police and medics. This is the latest incident that occurred amid increasing violence in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. "A suspect armed with a knife committed a terrorist attack near Shivtei Israel light rail station in Jerusalem," said Israeli police in a statement. "The suspect was neutralised on the spot," it added. A border police officer, who was inside a moving tram, saw the attack as it occurred and took action, said the police. He "promptly disembarked from the train and fired", hitting the suspect, they stated. ALSO READ | Palestinian who opened fire, threw grenade at Israeli forces, shot dead Speaking to AFP, police spokesman Dean Elsdunne said that the "minor" attacker was from east Jerusalem, which is a predominantly Palestinian area. The 14-year-old teenager was from east Jerusalem's Beit Hanina neighbourhood and he was pronounced dead by the medical officials, he said. Man stabbed by teenage attacker hospitalised The Magen David Adom emergency service stated that they treated a 25-year-old man who was stabbed in the back. The injured man was later taken to the hospital. As per a statement issued by Shaare Zedek Hospital, the wounded man was in a "stable" condition. Dozens of Israeli security personnel had gathered at the station where many ultra-Orthodox Jews, wearing white shirts and black suits, were also present, as reported by an AFP correspondent. The body of the attacker kept on the ground and wrapped in a blanket was seen by an AFP photographer. Ice was used by some security officers to clean the site where blood stains were still present. Palestinian militant group Hamas, which has the Gaza Strip under its control, said that a “heroic” operation was carried out by the attacker at the tram station. WATCH | Israel-Palestine tension transcends borders: Woman killed near West Bank Hebron Videos were posted by many gunmen accusing the Palestinian Authority (PA) for his killing. "We will not keep silent about this act, which aids the occupation forces in arresting and chasing the youths and those (on Israel's) wanted list," said one of the gunmen. Spokesperson for the PA security services Talal Dweikat, while speaking to Reuters news agency, said that the gunmen had opened fire at the forces, "prompting security forces to intervene, taking necessary measures to restore order". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israeli police kill teenage attacker after stabbing incident in Jerusalem

The Israeli Cabinet voted at its weekly meeting on Sunday to establish a committee tasked with examining law enforcement’s use of spyware technology.

Israel: Panel to probe Police's use of Pegasus spyware

<p>In a recent development in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, Saleh al-Arouri, the deputy head of the Gaza-ruling Hamas terror group's politburo, has issued a stern warning to Israel. Al-Arouri cautioned Israel against resuming targeted assassinations of terror leaders, emphasising that such a move could ignite a "regional war." This warning follows a meeting of the Israeli security cabinet, which took place in response to a series of deadly terror attacks in the West Bank.</p>

<h2><strong>Israeli security cabinet's response</strong></h2>

<p>During the security cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated that ministers had reached a consensus on "a series of decisions to target terrorists" and had authorised the prime minister and defence minister to take action on the matter. While specific details of these decisions were not disclosed, leaks from the meeting indicated that the resumption of targeted assassinations was among the contemplated measures.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Iran orders US to pay $330 million for ‘planning coup’</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Hamas leader's claims</strong></h2>

<p>Saleh al-Arouri, who is himself wanted by Israel for his alleged involvement in the 2014 kidnapping and killing of three Israeli teenagers, asserted in an interview with the Lebanese news outlet Al Mayadeen that Israel had made plans to target numerous individuals, including Hamas' top military commander, Muhammed Deif.<br />
<br />
Deif has been a long-standing target due to his role in significant terror attacks and past survival of assassination attempts. Additionally, al-Arouri accused far-right elements within the Israeli government of seeking to expel Palestinians from the West Bank and gain control over the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/miracle-surgery-doctors-join-back-boys-head-after-his-skull-got-detached-from-vertebrae-615917">Miracle surgery | Doctors in Israel join back boy's head detached in an accident</a></p>

<h2><strong>Warning of escalation</strong></h2>

<p>Al-Arouri raised alarm over the potential consequences of these actions, stating, "The leaders of the occupation government, with their extremist policies, will cause an all-out war in the region." He further warned that actions such as taking control of Al-Aqsa Mosque and conducting assassinations could trigger a regional war. Al-Arouri expressed confidence in Hamas' preparedness for such a conflict and mentioned ongoing discussions with relevant parties. He referenced recent threats made by Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, against Israel, suggesting that an all-out war would result in an unprecedented defeat for Israel.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Netanyahu responded to al-Arouri's comments, asserting that the Hamas deputy leader "knows well why he and his friends are in hideouts." He emphasized Israel's determination to combat terrorism and warned that anyone attempting to harm the country would "pay the full price."</p>

<h2><strong>Tensions on the rise</strong></h2>

<p>These developments come amid increasing tensions in the Middle East. Reports suggest that terror leaders in the Gaza Strip have been taking heightened precautions due to concerns about potential Israeli actions. Additionally, both Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant have accused "Iran and its cancerous proxies" of being behind the surge in attacks, raising the possibility that Israel may extend its military operations beyond the West Bank.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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In a recent development in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, Saleh al-Arouri, the deputy head of the Gaza-ruling Hamas terror group's politburo, has issued a stern warning to Israel.

In a recent development in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, Saleh al-Arouri, the deputy head of the Gaza-ruling Hamas terror group's politburo, has issued a stern warning to Israel. Al-Arouri cautioned Israel against resuming targeted assassinations of terror leaders, emphasising that such a move could ignite a "regional war." This warning follows a meeting of the Israeli security cabinet, which took place in response to a series of deadly terror attacks in the West Bank. Israeli security cabinet's response During the security cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated that ministers had reached a consensus on "a series of decisions to target terrorists" and had authorised the prime minister and defence minister to take action on the matter. While specific details of these decisions were not disclosed, leaks from the meeting indicated that the resumption of targeted assassinations was among the contemplated measures. Also watch | Iran orders US to pay $330 million for ‘planning coup’ Hamas leader's claims Saleh al-Arouri, who is himself wanted by Israel for his alleged involvement in the 2014 kidnapping and killing of three Israeli teenagers, asserted in an interview with the Lebanese news outlet Al Mayadeen that Israel had made plans to target numerous individuals, including Hamas' top military commander, Muhammed Deif. Deif has been a long-standing target due to his role in significant terror attacks and past survival of assassination attempts. Additionally, al-Arouri accused far-right elements within the Israeli government of seeking to expel Palestinians from the West Bank and gain control over the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. Also read | Miracle surgery | Doctors in Israel join back boy's head detached in an accident Warning of escalation Al-Arouri raised alarm over the potential consequences of these actions, stating, "The leaders of the occupation government, with their extremist policies, will cause an all-out war in the region." He further warned that actions such as taking control of Al-Aqsa Mosque and conducting assassinations could trigger a regional war. Al-Arouri expressed confidence in Hamas' preparedness for such a conflict and mentioned ongoing discussions with relevant parties. He referenced recent threats made by Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, against Israel, suggesting that an all-out war would result in an unprecedented defeat for Israel. Prime Minister Netanyahu responded to al-Arouri's comments, asserting that the Hamas deputy leader "knows well why he and his friends are in hideouts." He emphasized Israel's determination to combat terrorism and warned that anyone attempting to harm the country would "pay the full price." Tensions on the rise These developments come amid increasing tensions in the Middle East. Reports suggest that terror leaders in the Gaza Strip have been taking heightened precautions due to concerns about potential Israeli actions. Additionally, both Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant have accused "Iran and its cancerous proxies" of being behind the surge in attacks, raising the possibility that Israel may extend its military operations beyond the West Bank. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hamas deputy warns of ‘regional war’ if Israel resumes targeted killings

Following the shooting deaths of a father and son at a car wash in the occupied West Bank on Saturday, Israeli troops began a manhunt in the region.

Israel: Father and son gunned down in West Bank

<p>Saudi Arabia, on Saturday (August 12), selected a non-resident ambassador for the Palestinian Territories who will also serve as consul general in Jerusalem. This comes amid speculations about the Kingdom’s consideration of establishing formal diplomatic relations with Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Saudi Arabia’s pick?</strong></h2>

<p>According to a social media post from the embassy in Jordan and confirmed by a Saudi foreign ministry official, the kingdom has picked Nayef al-Sudairi, the current ambassador to Amman as the first non-resident Saudi Arabian ambassador to the Palestinian Territories.</p>

<p>In a video, broadcast by the Saudi state-affiliated Al-Ekhbariya channel, al-Sudairi called the appointment an “an important step” in supporting the Palestinian cause.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The selection also underscores the desire of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman “to strengthen relations with the brothers of the State of Palestine and give it a formal boost in all areas,” said al-Sudairi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as Saudi Arabia has reportedly long championed the Palestinian cause and shunned official ties with Israel. However, the United States, which has strong ties with Israel, has sought to promote what could be a historic Middle East deal that would include normalising Israeli-Saudi relations.</p>

<p>So far, the file for the Palestinian Territories has been handled by Saudi Arabia’s embassy in Jordan. Saudi Arabia does not recognise Israel and also did not join the Washington-brokered Abraham Accords which saw Israel establish ties with two of its kingdom’s neighbouring countries, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Palestinians welcome first Saudi ambassador</strong></h2>

<p>Palestinian officials have welcomed the first non-resident Saudi Arabian ambassador. According to the official Palestinian news agency Wafa, President Mahmoud Abbas’s diplomatic adviser Majdi al-Khalidi received a copy of the credentials of al-Sudairi, at a ceremony in Jordan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Palestinian president’s diplomatic adviser called the appointment an “important step that will contribute to further strengthening the strong brotherly relations that bind the two countries and the two brotherly peoples,” as quoted by Wafa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Palestinian Authority official speaking to AFP, on the condition of anonymity said that with this announcement, “Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its recognition of the state of Palestine with Jerusalem as its capital”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as Jerusalem is one of the biggest points of contention in a possible peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians. “This is one part of several steps and we will continue to develop the relationship with them,” the Palestinian source added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Is Saudi Arabia planning to establish ties with Israel?</strong></h2>

<p>Last year, during US President Joe Biden’s Middle East tour, the Saudi civil aviation authority announced that it was lifting overflight restrictions on “all carriers” which also paved the way for Israeli planes to use Saudi airspace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the kingdom later denied that the airspace move was a “precursor to any further steps” towards normalisation of ties with Israel. Saudi Arabia has also repeatedly said that it would adhere to the decades-old Arab League position of not establishing official ties with Israel until the conflict with the Palestinians is resolved.</p>

<p>Additionally, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki said the Western-backed Palestinian Authority has sought to engage with Saudi Arabia over their concerns about a possible normalisation of ties with Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as Palestinians have expressed concerns that any such agreement would weaken support for their cause in the wider Arab world as well as undermine their hope for an independent Palestinian state.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Saudi Arabia, on Saturday (August 12), selected a non-resident ambassador for the Palestinian Territories who will also serve as consul general in Jerusalem. This comes amid speculations about the Kingdom’s consideration of establishing formal diplomatic relations with Israel.

Saudi Arabia, on Saturday (August 12), selected a non-resident ambassador for the Palestinian Territories who will also serve as consul general in Jerusalem. This comes amid speculations about the Kingdom’s consideration of establishing formal diplomatic relations with Israel. Who is Saudi Arabia’s pick? According to a social media post from the embassy in Jordan and confirmed by a Saudi foreign ministry official, the kingdom has picked Nayef al-Sudairi, the current ambassador to Amman as the first non-resident Saudi Arabian ambassador to the Palestinian Territories. In a video, broadcast by the Saudi state-affiliated Al-Ekhbariya channel, al-Sudairi called the appointment an “an important step” in supporting the Palestinian cause. The selection also underscores the desire of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman “to strengthen relations with the brothers of the State of Palestine and give it a formal boost in all areas,” said al-Sudairi. This comes as Saudi Arabia has reportedly long championed the Palestinian cause and shunned official ties with Israel. However, the United States, which has strong ties with Israel, has sought to promote what could be a historic Middle East deal that would include normalising Israeli-Saudi relations. So far, the file for the Palestinian Territories has been handled by Saudi Arabia’s embassy in Jordan. Saudi Arabia does not recognise Israel and also did not join the Washington-brokered Abraham Accords which saw Israel establish ties with two of its kingdom’s neighbouring countries, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. Palestinians welcome first Saudi ambassador Palestinian officials have welcomed the first non-resident Saudi Arabian ambassador. According to the official Palestinian news agency Wafa, President Mahmoud Abbas’s diplomatic adviser Majdi al-Khalidi received a copy of the credentials of al-Sudairi, at a ceremony in Jordan. The Palestinian president’s diplomatic adviser called the appointment an “important step that will contribute to further strengthening the strong brotherly relations that bind the two countries and the two brotherly peoples,” as quoted by Wafa. A Palestinian Authority official speaking to AFP, on the condition of anonymity said that with this announcement, “Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its recognition of the state of Palestine with Jerusalem as its capital”. This comes as Jerusalem is one of the biggest points of contention in a possible peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians. “This is one part of several steps and we will continue to develop the relationship with them,” the Palestinian source added. Is Saudi Arabia planning to establish ties with Israel? Last year, during US President Joe Biden’s Middle East tour, the Saudi civil aviation authority announced that it was lifting overflight restrictions on “all carriers” which also paved the way for Israeli planes to use Saudi airspace. However, the kingdom later denied that the airspace move was a “precursor to any further steps” towards normalisation of ties with Israel. Saudi Arabia has also repeatedly said that it would adhere to the decades-old Arab League position of not establishing official ties with Israel until the conflict with the Palestinians is resolved. Additionally, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki said the Western-backed Palestinian Authority has sought to engage with Saudi Arabia over their concerns about a possible normalisation of ties with Israel. This comes as Palestinians have expressed concerns that any such agreement would weaken support for their cause in the wider Arab world as well as undermine their hope for an independent Palestinian state. (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.

Saudi Arabia selects non-resident ambassador for Palestinian Territories

The High Court of Justice insinuated Wednesday that the police mishandled the demonstrations outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s hotel in the north this week.

Israel: Police should not have barred protesters from reaching Netanyahu’s hotel: High Court

<p>Archaeologists found an ancient cave in Israel that allegedly serves as a portal to the underworld.</p>

<p>In a recent excavation, the archaeologists in western Jerusalem found more than 100 ceramic lamps squeezed into the cave's crevices. They theorised in a new paper that these were most likely used to conjure up dead spirits and their secrets —a practice known as necromancy.</p>

<p>Called the Te'omim Cave, it dates back to 4000 BCE and the fourth century AD, and has been the subject of various research for the past 150 years.</p>

<p>Eitan Klein, from the Israel Antiquities Authority at Ashkelon Academic College and Boaz Zissu from Bar-Ilan University, wrote in the ‘Harvard Theological Review’: "The Te'omim Cave in the Jerusalem hills has all the cultic and physical elements necessary to serve as a possible portal to the underworld.</p>

<p>It is believed that spring water flows through the underground system which allegedly had healing properties.</p>

<h2><strong>Secret passageways&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>It was only in the 1970s that the researchers unearthed a series of previously-undiscovered secret passageways leading to hidden chambers within the cave.</p>

<p>Their study states that the many long and narrow crevices found in these concealed areas used to house embedded archaeological artefacts such as coins, pottery, metal weapons, and, importantly, lamps and skulls.</p>

<p>Though not many human remains were on display, the researchers found a skull with four late Roman-era lamps tucked deep into a crevice that was particularly hard to reach.</p>

<p>According to researchers, this skull was used as a sorcery weapon to ward off evil spirits.</p>

<h2><strong>Ancient writings discovered</strong></h2>

<p>The researchers also found writings on the cave wall which suggest that it was around the time of the Roman and Greek eras. By studying those writing, the researchers inferred that the way the flames within the lamps flickered it was considered a way of communicating with demons and spirits from beyond the grave, Daily Star reports.</p>

<p>The writings also indicate that necromancy was commonly practised by witches in tombs or underground shrines, and skulls were a key feature, the study argues.</p>

<p>“Most of the objects discovered in hard-to-reach crevices in the Te'omim Cave, including the oil lamps, the ceramic and glass bowls and vessels, the axe head, and the daggers, were used in one way or another for sorcery and magic in caves perceived as possible portals to the underworld. Their purpose was to predict the future and conjure up the spirits of the dead,” the study noted.</p>

<p>"Because more than 100 ceramic oil lamps but only three human skulls have been found so far in the Te'omim Cave, we hypothesize that the primary cultic ceremony focused on depositing oil lamps for chthonic forces, perhaps as part of rituals conducted in the cave to raise the dead and predict the future," it said.</p>

<p>The excavation has been going since 2009 as part of a collaboration of the Martin (Szusz) Department of Land of Israel Studies and Archaeology at Bar-Ilan University and the Cave Research Center at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Archaeologists found an ancient cave in Israel that allegedly serves as a portal to the underworld. In a recent excavation, the archaeologists in western Jerusalem found more than 100 ceramic lamps squeezed into the cave's crevices.

Archaeologists found an ancient cave in Israel that allegedly serves as a portal to the underworld. In a recent excavation, the archaeologists in western Jerusalem found more than 100 ceramic lamps squeezed into the cave's crevices. They theorised in a new paper that these were most likely used to conjure up dead spirits and their secrets —a practice known as necromancy. Called the Te'omim Cave, it dates back to 4000 BCE and the fourth century AD, and has been the subject of various research for the past 150 years. Eitan Klein, from the Israel Antiquities Authority at Ashkelon Academic College and Boaz Zissu from Bar-Ilan University, wrote in the ‘Harvard Theological Review’: "The Te'omim Cave in the Jerusalem hills has all the cultic and physical elements necessary to serve as a possible portal to the underworld. It is believed that spring water flows through the underground system which allegedly had healing properties. Secret passageways It was only in the 1970s that the researchers unearthed a series of previously-undiscovered secret passageways leading to hidden chambers within the cave. Their study states that the many long and narrow crevices found in these concealed areas used to house embedded archaeological artefacts such as coins, pottery, metal weapons, and, importantly, lamps and skulls. Though not many human remains were on display, the researchers found a skull with four late Roman-era lamps tucked deep into a crevice that was particularly hard to reach. According to researchers, this skull was used as a sorcery weapon to ward off evil spirits. Ancient writings discovered The researchers also found writings on the cave wall which suggest that it was around the time of the Roman and Greek eras. By studying those writing, the researchers inferred that the way the flames within the lamps flickered it was considered a way of communicating with demons and spirits from beyond the grave, Daily Star reports. The writings also indicate that necromancy was commonly practised by witches in tombs or underground shrines, and skulls were a key feature, the study argues. “Most of the objects discovered in hard-to-reach crevices in the Te'omim Cave, including the oil lamps, the ceramic and glass bowls and vessels, the axe head, and the daggers, were used in one way or another for sorcery and magic in caves perceived as possible portals to the underworld. Their purpose was to predict the future and conjure up the spirits of the dead,” the study noted. "Because more than 100 ceramic oil lamps but only three human skulls have been found so far in the Te'omim Cave, we hypothesize that the primary cultic ceremony focused on depositing oil lamps for chthonic forces, perhaps as part of rituals conducted in the cave to raise the dead and predict the future," it said. The excavation has been going since 2009 as part of a collaboration of the Martin (Szusz) Department of Land of Israel Studies and Archaeology at Bar-Ilan University and the Cave Research Center at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Archaeologists find ancient cave in Israel that serves as ‘portal to underworld’

Thousands of Israeli demonstrators rallied in Jerusalem against a controversial Judicial Reform Bill that now faces a key vote. This will be a showdown between the hard-line religious nationalist coalition and the Israeli society.

Israel: Thousands march to parliament against Judicial Reform Bill

Thousands of Israeli protesters rallied in Jerusalem against a controversial judicial reform bill that now faces a key vote . This will be a showdown between the hard-line religious-nationalist coalition and swathes of Israeli society. The vote would mark the first major piece of legislation to be approved.

Thousands march into Jerusalem over planned judicial reforms

Tens of thousands of protesters reached Jerusalem on Saturday, some having walked 40 miles from Tel Aviv. The march highlighted the depth of opposition to a government plan to restrain the judiciary.

Israel: Massive crowds rally as vote on judicial overhaul looms

Bejamin Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel, will have surgery to implant a cardiac pacemaker. He made this claim in a video statement made available by his office. The Parliament is getting ready to vote on a bill on Monday that would limit the Supreme Court's authority.

Massive crowds rally in Israel as vote on judicial overhaul looms

<p>Tens of thousands of Israelis took to the streets in protest of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposed judicial overhaul and entered Jerusalem, on Saturday (July 22). This is amid mounting pressure on Israel’s right-wing government with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/west-asia/over-1000-israeli-air-force-reservists-threaten-to-halt-duties-in-protest-against-proposed-judicial-overhaul-618250">over 1,100 Israeli air force reservists</a>, including fighter pilots, threatening to suspend volunteer service ahead of the parliament vote on judicial overhaul on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is the upcoming vote about?</strong></h2>

<p>The anti-overhaul protesters are marching to Jerusalem ahead of the upcoming vote which has reportedly sought to curb the powers of the Israeli supreme court. This comes months after Netanyahu suspended the overhaul push after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-day-of-disruption-thousands-march-across-israel-as-judicial-bill-vote-looms-617218/#highways-blocked-617222">nationwide protests</a> and international pressure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, since the talks with opposition parties ground to a halt the country’s PM relaunched the legislation scrapping parts of the proposal while retaining others. One of them will limit the Supreme Court’s ability to void decisions it deems “unreasonable” by the government and ministers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The legislation had been on hold for several weeks but the government has sought to pass the law before a July 30 Knesset (Israeli parliament) recess. As a part of the legislation, the Knesset would be able to overrule the top court's decisions with a simple majority, which critics say will lead to corruption and abuses of power.</p>

<h2><strong>Protesters’ days-long march to Jerusalem</strong></h2>

<p>Images show a column of protesters walking up the main highway to Jerusalem while carrying blue and white Israeli flags in sweltering heat to the sounds of beating drums and anti-government chants and cheers, reported Reuters. The march also came amid one of the hottest weeks of the year in Israel.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="iw">היסטוריה, פשוט היסטוריה<br />
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ותראו איזו קבלת פנים לנחיל הדגלים שלא נגמר🇮🇱🇮🇱 <a href="https://t.co/fiyXzriVWC">pic.twitter.com/fiyXzriVWC</a></p>
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<p>The protesters have been walking for days and plan to rally outside the Israeli parliament ahead of the Sunday debate and subsequent vote on the bill which has sought to limit the powers of the country’s supreme court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The march that began on Tuesday from Tel Aviv with a handful of people became one of the most resonant events of the seven-month anti-overhaul protest movement. Marchers have been setting up camps overnight and also met with locals who offer them food and drinks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked if this march could stop the bill from passing, protest leader Shikma Bressler told Reuters that she does not know but “the vote is not the last step.” She added, “This is why we are trying to build the forces...in this country to choose right from wrong, to choose light from darkness.”</p>

<h2><strong>Demonstrations expected in 150 locations</strong></h2>

<p>According to local media reports, in addition to the large protest outside the Knesset on Saturday evening, the anti-overhaul protesters are also expected to rally outside Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem. Furthermore, demonstrations will also be held at Tel Aviv’s Kaplan Street which has been the site of the main weekly anti-government protests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The upcoming demonstration will mark the 29th week of protests against the contentious proposed judicial overhaul where hundreds of thousands of people are expected to rally at over 150 locations across Israel against Netanyahu’s government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Tens of thousands of Israelis took to the streets in protest of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposed judicial overhaul and entered Jerusalem, on Saturday (July 22).

Tens of thousands of Israelis took to the streets in protest of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposed judicial overhaul and entered Jerusalem, on Saturday (July 22). This is amid mounting pressure on Israel’s right-wing government with over 1,100 Israeli air force reservists, including fighter pilots, threatening to suspend volunteer service ahead of the parliament vote on judicial overhaul on Monday. What is the upcoming vote about? The anti-overhaul protesters are marching to Jerusalem ahead of the upcoming vote which has reportedly sought to curb the powers of the Israeli supreme court. This comes months after Netanyahu suspended the overhaul push after nationwide protests and international pressure. However, since the talks with opposition parties ground to a halt the country’s PM relaunched the legislation scrapping parts of the proposal while retaining others. One of them will limit the Supreme Court’s ability to void decisions it deems “unreasonable” by the government and ministers. The legislation had been on hold for several weeks but the government has sought to pass the law before a July 30 Knesset (Israeli parliament) recess. As a part of the legislation, the Knesset would be able to overrule the top court's decisions with a simple majority, which critics say will lead to corruption and abuses of power. Protesters’ days-long march to Jerusalem Images show a column of protesters walking up the main highway to Jerusalem while carrying blue and white Israeli flags in sweltering heat to the sounds of beating drums and anti-government chants and cheers, reported Reuters. The march also came amid one of the hottest weeks of the year in Israel. היסטוריה, פשוט היסטוריה ותראו איזו קבלת פנים לנחיל הדגלים שלא נגמר🇮🇱🇮🇱 pic.twitter.com/fiyXzriVWC — 🇮🇱חגית קלימן - Hagit Klaiman🇮🇱 (@klaiman14) July 22, 2023 × The protesters have been walking for days and plan to rally outside the Israeli parliament ahead of the Sunday debate and subsequent vote on the bill which has sought to limit the powers of the country’s supreme court. The march that began on Tuesday from Tel Aviv with a handful of people became one of the most resonant events of the seven-month anti-overhaul protest movement. Marchers have been setting up camps overnight and also met with locals who offer them food and drinks. When asked if this march could stop the bill from passing, protest leader Shikma Bressler told Reuters that she does not know but “the vote is not the last step.” She added, “This is why we are trying to build the forces...in this country to choose right from wrong, to choose light from darkness.” Demonstrations expected in 150 locations According to local media reports, in addition to the large protest outside the Knesset on Saturday evening, the anti-overhaul protesters are also expected to rally outside Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem. Furthermore, demonstrations will also be held at Tel Aviv’s Kaplan Street which has been the site of the main weekly anti-government protests. The upcoming demonstration will mark the 29th week of protests against the contentious proposed judicial overhaul where hundreds of thousands of people are expected to rally at over 150 locations across Israel against Netanyahu’s government. (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.

From Tel Aviv to Jerusalem: Thousands of Israelis march against judicial overhaul ahead of vote

Protests continue in Israel against Netanyahu's judicial overhaul. From reservists to teachers and former intelligence chiefs, they all have one message - hit the brakes on the reform. Will Netanyahu listen to the public or will Israel pass the controversial bill?

Israeli reservists vow to refuse duty over judicial reform

Tel Aviv's police commander said on Wednesday he was quitting the force, citing political intervention by members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's hard-right cabinet whom he said wanted excessive force used against anti-government protesters.

Israel: Tel Aviv police chief quits, citing government meddling against protesters

Israel: Thousands take to the streets after Tel Aviv police chief quits

Israel carried out air strikes on the Gaza Strip on Wednesday in response to rocket fire from the coastal enclave, as the military began withdrawing forces from Jenin in the occupied West Bank after a major two-day operation in the area.

Israel launches air strikes on Gaza as troops withdraw from Jenin

Israeli forces killed eight Palestinians in a large-scale operation Monday in the occupied West Bank that the army labelled an "extensive counterterrorism effort," involving air strikes and hundreds of troops.

Israel launches ‘biggest’ West Bank raid in years, 8 Palestinians killed

Protected by Israeli forces, dozens of armed settlers raided a village north of the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah, shooting at Palestinians and setting their houses and vehicles on fire.

Palestinian shooting attack in West Bank, settlers torch houses

The protests against the government's plans for judicial reform continued for the 24th straight week in demonstrations across Israel on Saturday evening.

Israeli protestors kick off 24th weekly judicial reform demonstrations

Israeli defence exports hit an all-time high of US$12.5 billion last year, with Arab countries that recently established ties accounting for nearly a quarter of purchase contracts, officials said Wednesday.

Arab states account for quarter of record Israel arms exports

Tens of thousands of Israelis are up in arms against a controversial plan to reform Israel's judicial system. Ahead of a key Knesset vote to place two lawmakers on the judicial selection committee, protest heads have a warning for Netanyahu. The leaders of weekly protests against the judicial overhaul plan say everything will ignite if one of the selected members of the Knesset is not from the opposition. The government's reform proposals would curtail the authority of the supreme court. It would give politicians greater powers over the selection of the judges. In March, prime minister Netanyahu announced a 'pause' to allow for talks on the reforms, which were moving through parliament & split the nation. Netanyahu's government is firm on the need for a judicial overhaul. The coalition govt argues the proposed changes are needed to rebalance powers between lawmakers & the judiciary. On the other hand, opponents of the plan believe it could open the way to a more authoritarian government.

'Do not try us': Israel protest heads say opposition member must be on judicial selection committee

Israel's opposition leader testified for the prosecution on Monday against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his corruption trial in Jerusalem.

Israel's opposition leader and former prime minister testifies at Netanyahu's corruption trial

Protests against the current government's plans to implement the judicial reforms continued throughout the country for the 23rd week in a row on Saturday evening. with demonstrators raising a 200 square meter sign that stated: Type of citizen: dead, which is in response to the 100th person killed this year as a result of crime in Arab areas in Israel.

Judicial reform protests continue across Israel for 23rd straight week

<p>A rare raid by the Israeli army into the Palestinian city of Ramallah sparked clashes early on Thursday (May 8). The military said that the operation in the city in the occupied West Bank was launched&nbsp;to demolish the residence of the terrorist who carried out the bombing attack in Jerusalem last November.<br />
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Reuters cited a witness who said that a large military convoy entered Ramallah, which is the seat of the Palestinian government. The presence of the Israeli army in downtown Ramallah led to hundreds of people gathering in the area. Some youths hurled stones at the Israeli forces. The soldiers fired live bullets, lobbed stun grenades and used tear gas at the crowd. Roads were seen blocked by trash bins set afire. Ambulance sirens could be heard.</p>

<p>According to the Palestinian health ministry, at least six people were sent to hospital. These included three who sustained gunshot wounds.</p>

<p>The Israeli military said its forces were operating in Ramallah "to demolish the residence of the terrorist who carried out the bombing attack in Jerusalem last November".</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Iran’s first hypersonic missile alarms Israel</strong></p>

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<p>The twin blasts in Jerusalem had killed two people, including an Israeli-Canadian teenager, and wounded at least 14 others in what police said were explosions of improvised bombs that were planted at bus stops near the city exit and in a junction leading to a settlement.</p>

<p>"The demolition of the homes of fighters is a collective punishment that falls under the war crimes committed by the occupation against our people," said Abdel Fattah Dola of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's Fatah party.</p>

<h2><strong>Punishment and deterrence</strong></h2>

<p>Israel has supported the policy of demolishing the homes of perpetrators as this, it says, is both punitive and deterrent action.</p>

<p>Israel's raid into Ramallah came just hours after US envoy for Palestinian Affairs, Hady Amr, met Hussein Al-Sheikh, a senior Palestinian official.</p>

<p>The last one year has witnessed a spurt in violence in the West Bank. Israel has stepped up military raids&nbsp;while street attacks have been carried out by Palestinians.</p>

<p>The Palestinian health ministry said at least 158 Palestinians have been killed by Israel since January. Israel's foreign ministry said 20 Israelis and two foreign nationals have been killed in Palestinian attacks in the same period.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-foreign-minister-slams-us-vp-kamala-harris-over-calls-for-independent-judiciary-601922">Israeli foreign minister slams US VP Kamala Harris over call for ‘independent judiciary’</a></strong></p>

<p>Israel has been in occupation of the West Bank since the Six-Day War of 1967. Nearly three million Palestinians live in the West Bank while around 490,000 Israelis also reside in the settlements in the area. These settlements are deemed illegal by the United Nations (UN) and most of the international community.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A rare raid by the Israeli army into the Palestinian city of Ramallah sparked clashes early on Thursday (May 8). The military said that the operation in the city in the occupied West Bank was launched to demolish the residence of the terrorist who carried out the bombing attack in Jerusalem last November.

A rare raid by the Israeli army into the Palestinian city of Ramallah sparked clashes early on Thursday (May 8). The military said that the operation in the city in the occupied West Bank was launched to demolish the residence of the terrorist who carried out the bombing attack in Jerusalem last November. Reuters cited a witness who said that a large military convoy entered Ramallah, which is the seat of the Palestinian government. The presence of the Israeli army in downtown Ramallah led to hundreds of people gathering in the area. Some youths hurled stones at the Israeli forces. The soldiers fired live bullets, lobbed stun grenades and used tear gas at the crowd. Roads were seen blocked by trash bins set afire. Ambulance sirens could be heard. According to the Palestinian health ministry, at least six people were sent to hospital. These included three who sustained gunshot wounds. The Israeli military said its forces were operating in Ramallah "to demolish the residence of the terrorist who carried out the bombing attack in Jerusalem last November". Watch | Iran’s first hypersonic missile alarms Israel × The twin blasts in Jerusalem had killed two people, including an Israeli-Canadian teenager, and wounded at least 14 others in what police said were explosions of improvised bombs that were planted at bus stops near the city exit and in a junction leading to a settlement. "The demolition of the homes of fighters is a collective punishment that falls under the war crimes committed by the occupation against our people," said Abdel Fattah Dola of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's Fatah party. Punishment and deterrence Israel has supported the policy of demolishing the homes of perpetrators as this, it says, is both punitive and deterrent action. Israel's raid into Ramallah came just hours after US envoy for Palestinian Affairs, Hady Amr, met Hussein Al-Sheikh, a senior Palestinian official. The last one year has witnessed a spurt in violence in the West Bank. Israel has stepped up military raids while street attacks have been carried out by Palestinians. The Palestinian health ministry said at least 158 Palestinians have been killed by Israel since January. Israel's foreign ministry said 20 Israelis and two foreign nationals have been killed in Palestinian attacks in the same period. Also Read | Israeli foreign minister slams US VP Kamala Harris over call for ‘independent judiciary’ Israel has been in occupation of the West Bank since the Six-Day War of 1967. Nearly three million Palestinians live in the West Bank while around 490,000 Israelis also reside in the settlements in the area. These settlements are deemed illegal by the United Nations (UN) and most of the international community. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Clashes erupt after Israeli forces mount rare raid into Palestinian city of Ramallah

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