<p>US President Joe Biden on Monday (Oct 24) triggered a wave of speculations on social media after ending a rare White House press meet as he told reporters that he was heading to the “situation room.”</p>

<p>He said he had “another issue to deal with”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It came on the heels of the news from Gaza that Hamas had agreed to release two more hostages.</p>

<p>The reason for his departure was not confirmed by the White House, but it is speculated that it was triggered by reports of increasing hostility of Iran-backed militias in the West Asian region against US forces.</p>

<p>Tensions in Gaza have also escalated, with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) incessantly pounding Gaza and Hamas reporting at least 150 casualties in overnight Israeli raids.</p>

<p>“I apologise, I have to go to the Situation Room for another issue I have to deal with,” Biden told reporters.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">JUST IN: President Joe Biden ends a rare press briefing and tells reporters that he needs to get to the situation room immediately.<br />
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“I apologize, I have to go to the situation room with another issue. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.”<br />
<br />
The incident comes as Israel readies to… <a href="https://t.co/3aCE5T2LkO">pic.twitter.com/3aCE5T2LkO</a></p>
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/1716547494908252511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, during his address, Biden made it clear that Hamas should release hostages before it expects any ceasefire from the Jewish nation.</p>

<h2><strong>Two hostages released</strong></h2>

<p>The International Committee of the Red Cross on Monday evening confirmed the release of further two hostages by Hamas—85-year-old Yocheved Lifshitz and 79-year-old Nurit Cooper.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-says-may-support-gaza-ceasefire-only-after-hostages-freed-650469"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;US President Biden says may support Gaza ceasefire only after hostages are freed</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier on Friday (Oct 20), the terrorist group released the first two hostages. They are believed to have taken at least 220 people hostage, including foreigners and dual nationals.</p>

<p>Since the Oct 7 assault by Hamas on Israel, at least 1,400 Israelis have lost their lives. The death toll in Palestine (West Bank and Gaza) has reached 5,100 meanwhile.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US: Why did President Joe Biden end press conference abruptly?</strong></p>

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<p>Biden said he was “overjoyed” by the release of the first two hostages by Hamas.</p>

<p>“Our fellow citizens have endured a terrible ordeal these past 14 days, and I am overjoyed that they will soon be reunited with their family, who has been wracked with fear,” he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US President Joe Biden on Monday (Oct 24) triggered a wave of speculations on social media after ending a rare White House press meet as he told reporters that he was heading to the “situation room.

US President Joe Biden on Monday (Oct 24) triggered a wave of speculations on social media after ending a rare White House press meet as he told reporters that he was heading to the “situation room.” He said he had “another issue to deal with”. It came on the heels of the news from Gaza that Hamas had agreed to release two more hostages. The reason for his departure was not confirmed by the White House, but it is speculated that it was triggered by reports of increasing hostility of Iran-backed militias in the West Asian region against US forces. Tensions in Gaza have also escalated, with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) incessantly pounding Gaza and Hamas reporting at least 150 casualties in overnight Israeli raids. “I apologise, I have to go to the Situation Room for another issue I have to deal with,” Biden told reporters. JUST IN: President Joe Biden ends a rare press briefing and tells reporters that he needs to get to the situation room immediately. “I apologize, I have to go to the situation room with another issue. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.” The incident comes as Israel readies to… pic.twitter.com/3aCE5T2LkO — Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) October 23, 2023 × Earlier, during his address, Biden made it clear that Hamas should release hostages before it expects any ceasefire from the Jewish nation. Two hostages released The International Committee of the Red Cross on Monday evening confirmed the release of further two hostages by Hamas—85-year-old Yocheved Lifshitz and 79-year-old Nurit Cooper. Also read: US President Biden says may support Gaza ceasefire only after hostages are freed Earlier on Friday (Oct 20), the terrorist group released the first two hostages. They are believed to have taken at least 220 people hostage, including foreigners and dual nationals. Since the Oct 7 assault by Hamas on Israel, at least 1,400 Israelis have lost their lives. The death toll in Palestine (West Bank and Gaza) has reached 5,100 meanwhile. Watch: US: Why did President Joe Biden end press conference abruptly? × Biden said he was “overjoyed” by the release of the first two hostages by Hamas. “Our fellow citizens have endured a terrible ordeal these past 14 days, and I am overjoyed that they will soon be reunited with their family, who has been wracked with fear,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Watch: Biden abruptly ends press meet saying he was heading to ‘situation room’

Joe Biden abruptly ended his speech to address an unidentified "issue" that required him to be in the Situation Room. Regarding the ongoing conflict with Hamas and the hostages kidnapped in Israel, Biden was speaking to the nation. I must visit the Situation Room. He said, "I have a problem that needs to be resolved. His remarks were made just after news broke that Hamas had freed two of the four hostages it had released from Gaza following the terror incident on October 7.

US: Why did President Joe Biden end press conference abruptly?

<p>Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, a host of Hollywood celebrities, artists, and entertainment executives have come together, urging US President Joe Biden to press for a ceasefire in the embattled regions and to ensure the safe release of hostages. The stars have also signed a heartfelt letter thanking President Biden for his leadership amid the escalating crisis.</p>

<p>This star-studded list of celebrities includes Bradley Cooper, Courteney Cox, Chris Rock, Adam Sandler, Bob Odenkirk, Constance Wu, Tiffany Haddish, Aubrey Plaza, Zack Snyder, Shawn Levy, Susan Sarandon, Kristen Stewart, Quinta Brunson, Ramy Youssef, Riz Ahmed, Mahershala Ali, and many others. These influential figures lent their voices to a call for peace and the safe return of those held captive.</p>

<p>The initiative was spearheaded by a group of Hollywood leaders who have come together under the banner of 'No Hostage Left Behind.' The aim is clear: to bring attention to the dire situation in Israel and Gaza and to advocate for an immediate ceasefire, along with the safe release of hostages.</p>

<p>In a passionate letter addressed to President Biden, the celebrities wrote, "We urge your administration, and all world leaders, to honour all of the lives in the Holy Land and call for and facilitate a ceasefire without delay – an end to the bombing of Gaza, and the safe release of hostages. We refuse to tell future generations the story of our silence, that we stood by and did nothing. As (UN) Emergency Relief Chief Martin Griffiths told UN News, 'History is watching.'"</p>

<p>The letter reflects the relief felt upon the recent release of American hostages, Judith Ranaan and her daughter Natalie Ranaan, and the release of two Israelis, Nurit Cooper and Yocheved Lifshitz, even as their husbands remain in captivity. However, the celebrities expressed their deep concern that 220 innocent people, including 30 children, are still held captive by terrorists and face the grave threat of torture and death.</p>

<p>Beyond their call for a ceasefire and hostage release, the letter also extended gratitude to President Biden for his unwavering moral conviction and support for both Jewish and Palestinian people. It emphasises a shared desire for freedom and peace for both communities, highlighting the urgent need to put an end to the violence spread by Hamas.</p>

<p>The letter closes with an appeal for humanitarian aid to reach those affected by the conflict in Gaza, where conditions have become dire due to Israel's bombardment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The brutal attack on Israel by Hamas militants on October 7&nbsp;resulted in the loss of 1,400 lives&nbsp;and the taking of about 200 hostages. In response, Israel launched airstrikes on Gaza, leading to the tragic death of over 4,100 Palestinians, according to the Palestinian health ministry.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-indian-singer-arijit-singh-loses-his-calm-slams-fan-for-chasing-his-car-for-a-selfie--viral-650267">Indian singer Arijit Singh loses his calm, scolds fan chasing car for a selfie; video goes viral</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Read the full note here!</strong></p>

<blockquote>
<p>Dear President Biden,</p>

<p>We are heartened by Friday’s release of the two American hostages, Judith Ranaan and her daughter Natalie Ranaan and by today’s release of two Israelis, Nurit Cooper and Yocheved Lifshitz, whose husbands remain in captivity.</p>

<p>But our relief is tempered by our overwhelming concern that 220 innocent people, including 30 children, remain captive by terrorists, threatened with torture and death. They were taken by Hamas in the savage massacre of October 7, where over 1,400 Israelis were slaughtered — women raped, families burned alive, and infants beheaded.</p>

<p>Thank you for your unshakable moral conviction, leadership, and support for the Jewish people, who have been terrorized by Hamas since the group’s founding over 35 years ago, and for the Palestinians, who have also been terrorized, oppressed, and victimized by Hamas for the last 17 years that the group has been governing Gaza.</p>

<p>We all want the same thing: Freedom for Israelis and Palestinians to live side by side in peace. Freedom from the brutal violence spread by Hamas. And most urgently, in this moment, freedom for the hostages.</p>

<p>We urge everyone to not rest until all hostages are released. No hostage can be left behind. Whether American, Argentinian, Australian, Azerbaijani, Brazilian, British, Canadian, Chilean, Chinese, Danish, Dutch, Eritrean, Filipino, French, German, Indian, Israeli, Italian, Kazakh, Mexican, Panamanian, Paraguayan, Peruvian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, South African, Spanish, Sri Lankan, Thai, Ukrainian, Uzbekistani or otherwise, we need to bring them home.</p>
</blockquote>

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Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, a host of Hollywood celebrities, artists, and entertainment executives have come together, urging US President Joe Biden to press for a ceasefire in the embattled regions and to ensure the safe release of hostages.

Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, a host of Hollywood celebrities, artists, and entertainment executives have come together, urging US President Joe Biden to press for a ceasefire in the embattled regions and to ensure the safe release of hostages. The stars have also signed a heartfelt letter thanking President Biden for his leadership amid the escalating crisis. This star-studded list of celebrities includes Bradley Cooper, Courteney Cox, Chris Rock, Adam Sandler, Bob Odenkirk, Constance Wu, Tiffany Haddish, Aubrey Plaza, Zack Snyder, Shawn Levy, Susan Sarandon, Kristen Stewart, Quinta Brunson, Ramy Youssef, Riz Ahmed, Mahershala Ali, and many others. These influential figures lent their voices to a call for peace and the safe return of those held captive. The initiative was spearheaded by a group of Hollywood leaders who have come together under the banner of 'No Hostage Left Behind.' The aim is clear: to bring attention to the dire situation in Israel and Gaza and to advocate for an immediate ceasefire, along with the safe release of hostages. In a passionate letter addressed to President Biden, the celebrities wrote, "We urge your administration, and all world leaders, to honour all of the lives in the Holy Land and call for and facilitate a ceasefire without delay – an end to the bombing of Gaza, and the safe release of hostages. We refuse to tell future generations the story of our silence, that we stood by and did nothing. As (UN) Emergency Relief Chief Martin Griffiths told UN News, 'History is watching.'" The letter reflects the relief felt upon the recent release of American hostages, Judith Ranaan and her daughter Natalie Ranaan, and the release of two Israelis, Nurit Cooper and Yocheved Lifshitz, even as their husbands remain in captivity. However, the celebrities expressed their deep concern that 220 innocent people, including 30 children, are still held captive by terrorists and face the grave threat of torture and death. Beyond their call for a ceasefire and hostage release, the letter also extended gratitude to President Biden for his unwavering moral conviction and support for both Jewish and Palestinian people. It emphasises a shared desire for freedom and peace for both communities, highlighting the urgent need to put an end to the violence spread by Hamas. The letter closes with an appeal for humanitarian aid to reach those affected by the conflict in Gaza, where conditions have become dire due to Israel's bombardment. The brutal attack on Israel by Hamas militants on October 7 resulted in the loss of 1,400 lives and the taking of about 200 hostages. In response, Israel launched airstrikes on Gaza, leading to the tragic death of over 4,100 Palestinians, according to the Palestinian health ministry. Also read: Indian singer Arijit Singh loses his calm, scolds fan chasing car for a selfie; video goes viral Read the full note here! Dear President Biden, We are heartened by Friday’s release of the two American hostages, Judith Ranaan and her daughter Natalie Ranaan and by today’s release of two Israelis, Nurit Cooper and Yocheved Lifshitz, whose husbands remain in captivity. But our relief is tempered by our overwhelming concern that 220 innocent people, including 30 children, remain captive by terrorists, threatened with torture and death. They were taken by Hamas in the savage massacre of October 7, where over 1,400 Israelis were slaughtered — women raped, families burned alive, and infants beheaded. Thank you for your unshakable moral conviction, leadership, and support for the Jewish people, who have been terrorized by Hamas since the group’s founding over 35 years ago, and for the Palestinians, who have also been terrorized, oppressed, and victimized by Hamas for the last 17 years that the group has been governing Gaza. We all want the same thing: Freedom for Israelis and Palestinians to live side by side in peace. Freedom from the brutal violence spread by Hamas. And most urgently, in this moment, freedom for the hostages. We urge everyone to not rest until all hostages are released. No hostage can be left behind. Whether American, Argentinian, Australian, Azerbaijani, Brazilian, British, Canadian, Chilean, Chinese, Danish, Dutch, Eritrean, Filipino, French, German, Indian, Israeli, Italian, Kazakh, Mexican, Panamanian, Paraguayan, Peruvian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, South African, Spanish, Sri Lankan, Thai, Ukrainian, Uzbekistani or otherwise, we need to bring them home. 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.

Hollywood actors call for release of those held hostage by Hamas in open letter to Joe Biden

A US official and a congressional aide said that the Pentagon plans to send the two iron dome missile defense systems it had previously purchased from Israel back to that country to defend itself against inbound missiles.

US delivers armoured jeeps, warships and supplies to Israel Army; more help en-route

<p>The White House faced criticism after it shared an image of President Joe Biden meeting with US troops in Israel as the photo revealed the identities of the soldiers who were helping with the hostage situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The image showed Biden shaking hands with a soldier of the Delta Force, which is the US Army's elite counter-terrorism unit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The post was deleted just an hour after it was posted and since then, the photo received more than 6,100 likes, and screenshots of the same were shared online.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It revealed the faces of three other Delta Force members and also showed a distinctive tattoo on the arm of a soldier, who was greeting Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-rapidly-expanding-nuclear-arsenal-to-have-1000-warheads-by-2030-pentagon-649090">China rapidly expanding nuclear arsenal, to have 1,000 warheads by 2030: Pentagon</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The caption of the now-deleted post read: "In Israel, President Biden met with first responders to thank them for their bravery and the work they're doing in response to the Hamas terrorist attacks."</p>

<p>Social media users accused the Biden administration of "compromising" the troops’ identities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharing an edited picture, a US-based journalist claimed on X that the White House shared the image without obscuring the faces of what appeared to be special forces on Wednesday night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The journalist wrote, "The Whitehouse media team shared this picture last night (I added the black boxes) without blurring or censoring the faces of the 'Delta Force' (CAG) operator's faces."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They deleted it an hour later after hundreds of thousands had already viewed it. This is a massive failure on the Biden admin," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-visa-services-to-face-delays-after-new-delhi-kicks-out-41-diplomats-649134">Canadian visa services to face delays after New Delhi kicks out 41 diplomats</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Whitehouse media team shared this picture last night (I added the black boxes) without blurring or censoring the faces of the “Delta Force” (CAG) operator’s faces. They deleted it an hour later after hundreds of thousands had already viewed it.<br />
<br />
This is a massive failure on… <a href="https://t.co/ROegvYWzit">pic.twitter.com/ROegvYWzit</a></p>
— Sam Shoemate (@samosaur) <a href="https://twitter.com/samosaur/status/1714962125980901873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Hamas hostages: What we know so far</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>White House issues apology&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Responding to the tricky situation, a White House spokesperson said, "We regret the error and any issues this may have caused."&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel on Oct 7, they killed over 1,000 people and also took around 200 hostages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US and other Israeli allies are now helping to tackle the hostage situation as soon as possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The White House faced criticism after it shared an image of President Joe Biden meeting with US troops in Israel as the photo revealed the identities of the soldiers who were helping with the hostage situation.

The White House faced criticism after it shared an image of President Joe Biden meeting with US troops in Israel as the photo revealed the identities of the soldiers who were helping with the hostage situation. The image showed Biden shaking hands with a soldier of the Delta Force, which is the US Army's elite counter-terrorism unit. The post was deleted just an hour after it was posted and since then, the photo received more than 6,100 likes, and screenshots of the same were shared online. It revealed the faces of three other Delta Force members and also showed a distinctive tattoo on the arm of a soldier, who was greeting Biden. Also read: China rapidly expanding nuclear arsenal, to have 1,000 warheads by 2030: Pentagon The caption of the now-deleted post read: "In Israel, President Biden met with first responders to thank them for their bravery and the work they're doing in response to the Hamas terrorist attacks." Social media users accused the Biden administration of "compromising" the troops’ identities. Sharing an edited picture, a US-based journalist claimed on X that the White House shared the image without obscuring the faces of what appeared to be special forces on Wednesday night. The journalist wrote, "The Whitehouse media team shared this picture last night (I added the black boxes) without blurring or censoring the faces of the 'Delta Force' (CAG) operator's faces." "They deleted it an hour later after hundreds of thousands had already viewed it. This is a massive failure on the Biden admin," he added. Also read: Canadian visa services to face delays after New Delhi kicks out 41 diplomats The Whitehouse media team shared this picture last night (I added the black boxes) without blurring or censoring the faces of the “Delta Force” (CAG) operator’s faces. They deleted it an hour later after hundreds of thousands had already viewed it. This is a massive failure on… pic.twitter.com/ROegvYWzit — Sam Shoemate (@samosaur) October 19, 2023 × Watch: Hamas hostages: What we know so far × White House issues apology Responding to the tricky situation, a White House spokesperson said, "We regret the error and any issues this may have caused." When Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel on Oct 7, they killed over 1,000 people and also took around 200 hostages. The US and other Israeli allies are now helping to tackle the hostage situation as soon as possible. (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.

White House faces backlash for accidentally revealing identities of US troops in Israel

Israel receives armoured vehicles from the US amid war with Hamas. These US vehicles will replace the Israeli vehicles damaged during the war. The shipment came after US President Joe Biden's visit to Israel.

Israel-Palestine War: US cargo plane carrying a shipment of armoured vehicles arrives in Israel

The Biden administration and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government are expected to announce a deal on Tuesday that would ease U.S. sanctions on Caracas' oil industry while opening up Venezuela's 2024 presidential election, the Washington Post reported on Monday.

US to ease Venezuela santions on oil, gas; US issues general licences authorising transactions

On a solidarity visit on Wednesday, Joe Biden gave Israel the unwavering support of the US. He also declared that the besieged Palestinian enclave would once again get critical supplies and held Islamist extremists accountable for a deadly missile strike on a Gaza hospital.

UK PM Rishi Sunak to visit Israel, visit to focus on de-escalation | World News | WION

<p>A US State Department official tendered his resignation over the Biden administration’s decision to boost military aid to Israel which is currently fighting Hamas in the besieged Gaza City.</p>

<p>Josh Paul, a director in the State Department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs which handles arms transfers, in his dissent note published online on Wednesday (Oct 18) called the administration’s response “an impulsive reaction” based on “intellectual bankruptcy.”</p>

<p>“The response Israel is taking, and with it the American support both for that response and for the status quo of the occupation, will only lead to more and deeper suffering for both the Israeli and the Palestinian people,” he wrote.</p>

<p>“I fear we are repeating the same mistakes we have made these past decades, and I decline to be a part of it for longer,” he said.</p>

<p>Paul’s note of dissent marks a rare display of internal conflict over Biden’s foreign policy which has openly sided with Israel and endorsed its retaliatory attacks on Gaza in its pursuit of wiping out Hamas.</p>

<p>While not official yet, US media reported that the Biden administration is earmarking at least $40 billion of military aid to Israel.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-used-north-korea-made-weapons-in-its-attack-against-israel-report-648786">Hamas used North Korea-made weapons in its attack against Israel: Report</a></p>

<h2><strong>‘US blindly supporting one side’</strong></h2>

<p>He further said that Washington’s “blind support for one side” was leading to policy decisions that were “shortsighted, destructive, unjust and contradictory to the very values we publicly espouse”.</p>

<p>Paul equally condemned Hamas’ surprise attack on Israel as “a monstrosity of monstrosities”, but also pointed out that Israeli&nbsp;military’s response “will only lead to more and deeper suffering for both the Israeli and the Palestinian people – and is not in the long term American interest”.</p>

<p>The official, who spent more than 11 years in his role, claimed that the US sending military aid to Israel will give the country a free hand to run amok in Gaza, regardless of the civilian toll.</p>

<h2>Biden calls for calm</h2>

<p>It comes hours after US President Joe Biden, in his visit to Tel Aviv, appealed for calm and asked Israelis to not “repeat the mistakes the US made post 9/11”.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the toll in the Israel-Hamas war continued to grow on Thursday with at least&nbsp;3,785 Palestinians losing their lives in the Israeli retaliatory attacks, the&nbsp;Palestinian health ministry said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-show-gazas-al-ahli-hospital-before-and-after-rocket-strike-648618">Satellite images show Gaza's Al-Ahli hospital before and after rocket strike</a></p>

<p>According to the health ministry, among those&nbsp;killed, 1,524 were children, 1,000 women, and 120 elderly. Around&nbsp;12,493 people have also been injured, the officials added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Israel recorded over 1,200 deaths in the Hamas terror attack.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A US State Department official tendered his resignation over the Biden administration’s decision to boost military aid to Israel which is currently fighting Hamas in the besieged Gaza City.

A US State Department official tendered his resignation over the Biden administration’s decision to boost military aid to Israel which is currently fighting Hamas in the besieged Gaza City. Josh Paul, a director in the State Department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs which handles arms transfers, in his dissent note published online on Wednesday (Oct 18) called the administration’s response “an impulsive reaction” based on “intellectual bankruptcy.” “The response Israel is taking, and with it the American support both for that response and for the status quo of the occupation, will only lead to more and deeper suffering for both the Israeli and the Palestinian people,” he wrote. “I fear we are repeating the same mistakes we have made these past decades, and I decline to be a part of it for longer,” he said. Paul’s note of dissent marks a rare display of internal conflict over Biden’s foreign policy which has openly sided with Israel and endorsed its retaliatory attacks on Gaza in its pursuit of wiping out Hamas. While not official yet, US media reported that the Biden administration is earmarking at least $40 billion of military aid to Israel. Also read | Hamas used North Korea-made weapons in its attack against Israel: Report ‘US blindly supporting one side’ He further said that Washington’s “blind support for one side” was leading to policy decisions that were “shortsighted, destructive, unjust and contradictory to the very values we publicly espouse”. Paul equally condemned Hamas’ surprise attack on Israel as “a monstrosity of monstrosities”, but also pointed out that Israeli military’s response “will only lead to more and deeper suffering for both the Israeli and the Palestinian people – and is not in the long term American interest”. The official, who spent more than 11 years in his role, claimed that the US sending military aid to Israel will give the country a free hand to run amok in Gaza, regardless of the civilian toll. Biden calls for calm It comes hours after US President Joe Biden, in his visit to Tel Aviv, appealed for calm and asked Israelis to not “repeat the mistakes the US made post 9/11”. Meanwhile, the toll in the Israel-Hamas war continued to grow on Thursday with at least 3,785 Palestinians losing their lives in the Israeli retaliatory attacks, the Palestinian health ministry said. Also read | Satellite images show Gaza's Al-Ahli hospital before and after rocket strike According to the health ministry, among those killed, 1,524 were children, 1,000 women, and 120 elderly. Around 12,493 people have also been injured, the officials added. While Israel recorded over 1,200 deaths in the Hamas terror attack. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel-Hamas war: US State Department official resigns over Biden’s ‘one-sided support’ of Israel

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has thrown an unpromising invitation to US President Joe Biden for a cup of tea in Moscow. Putin's purported invite came a day after&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-attacks-russian-targets-with-missile-system-covertly-given-by-the-us-648172">Ukraine attacked Russian targets with missile system covertly supplied to Kyiv</a> by Washington.</p>

<p>These long-range missiles are known as ATACMS or Army Tactical Missile System and were designed during the end of the Cold War for deep-strike missions on priority targets detrimental to American interests.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-attacks-russian-targets-with-missile-system-covertly-given-by-the-us-648172">Ukraine attacks Russian targets with missile system secretly given by the US</a></strong></p>

<p>Putin invited Biden "for pancakes and tea" after holding talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'If Russia has lost the war...': Vladimir Putin's big statement</strong></h2>

<p>Putin delivered these remarks during a rare trip to Beijing.&nbsp;When asked by a journalist about US President Joe&nbsp;Biden’s comment that Russia had already lost the war in Ukraine, Putin appeared incensed.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine proves America's billion-dollar weapons are not invincible</strong></p>

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<p>"If Russia has lost the war, why do they [the US] supply ATACMS?" Putin asked.</p>

<p>"Let them take them back, and all the other weapons. He [Biden] can take a seat and eat pancakes and visit us for some tea."</p>

<h2><strong>Putin's 'tea' remark for Joe Biden: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>A number of Vladimir Putin's opponents as well as Russian dissidents have died in suspicious circumstances and alleged poisoning instances.</p>

<p>A few of these dissidents have died after drinking poisoned cup(s) of tea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two years ago, the European Court of Human Rights found the Kremlin responsible for the 2006 assassination of Alexander Litvinenko, 43, a Putin critic who reportedly died after drinking green tea at a London hotel.</p>

<p>The Kremlin had denounced the verdict.</p>

<p>Similarly, Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned in Siberia&nbsp;after a powder dissolved in a liquid&nbsp;was reportedly put into his tea&nbsp;he drank at a Russian airport.</p>

<p>Putin added that Washington's deliveries of its weapons&nbsp;were a "mistake".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There’s nothing good for Ukraine in this. It just prolongs the agony," he added.</p>

<p>Vladimir Putin is a guest of honour at a summit in Beijing, attended by the likes of a Taliban minister among others, to mark the 10th anniversary of China's expansionist trade project, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has thrown an unpromising invitation to US President Joe Biden for a cup of tea in Moscow. Putin's purported invite came a day after Ukraine attacked Russian targets with missile system covertly supplied to Kyiv by Washington.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has thrown an unpromising invitation to US President Joe Biden for a cup of tea in Moscow. Putin's purported invite came a day after Ukraine attacked Russian targets with missile system covertly supplied to Kyiv by Washington. These long-range missiles are known as ATACMS or Army Tactical Missile System and were designed during the end of the Cold War for deep-strike missions on priority targets detrimental to American interests. Also read | Ukraine attacks Russian targets with missile system secretly given by the US Putin invited Biden "for pancakes and tea" after holding talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing. 'If Russia has lost the war...': Vladimir Putin's big statement Putin delivered these remarks during a rare trip to Beijing. When asked by a journalist about US President Joe Biden’s comment that Russia had already lost the war in Ukraine, Putin appeared incensed. Also watch | Gravitas: Ukraine proves America's billion-dollar weapons are not invincible × "If Russia has lost the war, why do they [the US] supply ATACMS?" Putin asked. "Let them take them back, and all the other weapons. He [Biden] can take a seat and eat pancakes and visit us for some tea." Putin's 'tea' remark for Joe Biden: What does it mean? A number of Vladimir Putin's opponents as well as Russian dissidents have died in suspicious circumstances and alleged poisoning instances. A few of these dissidents have died after drinking poisoned cup(s) of tea. Two years ago, the European Court of Human Rights found the Kremlin responsible for the 2006 assassination of Alexander Litvinenko, 43, a Putin critic who reportedly died after drinking green tea at a London hotel. The Kremlin had denounced the verdict. Similarly, Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned in Siberia after a powder dissolved in a liquid was reportedly put into his tea he drank at a Russian airport. Putin added that Washington's deliveries of its weapons were a "mistake". "There’s nothing good for Ukraine in this. It just prolongs the agony," he added. Vladimir Putin is a guest of honour at a summit in Beijing, attended by the likes of a Taliban minister among others, to mark the 10th anniversary of China's expansionist trade project, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). 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.

In Beijing, Putin invites Biden to come over for 'pancakes and tea'

US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping will be in San Francisco next month there simultaneous presence at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit holds out. The tantalizing possibility of a summit meeting between the two leaders but while Biden says that he's open to the prospects China has said that it can only happen if the United States meets four conditions including recognizing its hold on Taiwan.

Chinese diplomat Xu Xueyuan sets conditions for Biden-Xi meet

<p>While expressing solidarity with Israel over the recent deaths caused by Hamas militants, US President Joe Biden reminded Israelis “not to get consumed by rage” and said that&nbsp;“it's important sometimes to take a step back and remember what we all are - human beings created with dignity and purpose.”</p>

<p>In an address in Tel Aviv on Wednesday, following a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other members of the war cabinet, Biden appealed for calm as the death toll continued to rise in both Israel and Gaza.</p>

<h2><strong>Majority of Palestinians not with Hamas</strong></h2>

<p>"I caution this. While you feel that rage, don't be consumed by it.&nbsp;After 9/11, we were enraged in&nbsp;the United States.&nbsp;While we sought justice and got&nbsp;justice, we also made mistakes," he said.</p>

<p>“Wartime decisions are never clear or easy,” he said.</p>

<p>"There's always a cost. But it requires being deliberate.&nbsp;It requires asking very hard&nbsp; questions.&nbsp;It requires clarity about the&nbsp;objectives and an honest&nbsp;assessment about whether the&nbsp;path you're on will achieve&nbsp;those objectives," he added.</p>

<p>Biden also stressed that the "majority" of Palestinians are not with Hamas, and added that they are also "suffering greatly”.</p>

<p>"The vast majority of Palestinians are not Hamas. Hamas does not represent the&nbsp;Palestinian people," he said.</p>

<p>"Hamas uses innocents, innocent&nbsp;families in Gaza as human&nbsp;shields, putting their command&nbsp;centres, their weapons and the&nbsp;communications tunnels in&nbsp;residential areas.&nbsp;The Palestinian people are&nbsp;suffering greatly as well," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Mourns Gaza hospital deaths </strong></h2>

<p>Talking about the Gaza hospital bombing that left hundreds of people dead, Biden urged Israel to open the Gaza-Egypt border to provide humanitarian assistance.</p>

<p>"The United States unequivocally&nbsp;stands for the protection of&nbsp;civilian life during conflict.&nbsp;And I grieve, I truly grieve for&nbsp;the families who were killed or&nbsp;wounded by this tragedy," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-a-massacre-gaza-hospital-horror-unveiled-648290">It's a massacre: Gaza hospital horror unveiled</a></p>

<p>“I asked the Israeli cabinet.. to agree to the delivery of life-saving humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza based on the understanding that there will be inspections, and that the aid should go to civilians and not to Hamas," he says.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-supports-israels-report-on-gaza-hospital-strike-condemns-hamas-648337">Gaza hospital strike 'done by other team', Biden tells Israel's Netanyahu:</a></p>

<p>"Israel agreed the humanitarian assistance can begin to move from Egypt to Gaza," he adds.</p>

<h2><strong>Announces aid for Gaza and West Bank</strong></h2>

<p>Biden adds he is working with partners in the region, such as Egypt, to "get trucks moving across the border as soon as possible".</p>

<p>He also announces US$100 million "new US funding for humanitarian assistance to both Gaza and the West Bank".<br />
<br />
Earlier, starting his address, Biden said, “I have come to Israel with a simple message: You are not alone. As long as the United States stands – and we will stand forever – you will not be alone.”</p>

<p>Biden had said in a post on X earlier, “I spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding the situation on the ground, security assistance and humanitarian needs, and information on unaccounted Americans. I asked tough questions as a friend of Israel. We will continue to deter any actor wanting to widen this conflict.”</p>

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While expressing solidarity with Israel over the recent deaths caused by Hamas militants, US President Joe Biden reminded Israelis “not to get consumed by rage” and said that “it's important sometimes to take a step back and remember what we all are - human beings created with dignity and purpose.

While expressing solidarity with Israel over the recent deaths caused by Hamas militants, US President Joe Biden reminded Israelis “not to get consumed by rage” and said that “it's important sometimes to take a step back and remember what we all are - human beings created with dignity and purpose.” In an address in Tel Aviv on Wednesday, following a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other members of the war cabinet, Biden appealed for calm as the death toll continued to rise in both Israel and Gaza. Majority of Palestinians not with Hamas "I caution this. While you feel that rage, don't be consumed by it. After 9/11, we were enraged in the United States. While we sought justice and got justice, we also made mistakes," he said. “Wartime decisions are never clear or easy,” he said. "There's always a cost. But it requires being deliberate. It requires asking very hard questions. It requires clarity about the objectives and an honest assessment about whether the path you're on will achieve those objectives," he added. Biden also stressed that the "majority" of Palestinians are not with Hamas, and added that they are also "suffering greatly”. "The vast majority of Palestinians are not Hamas. Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people," he said. "Hamas uses innocents, innocent families in Gaza as human shields, putting their command centres, their weapons and the communications tunnels in residential areas. The Palestinian people are suffering greatly as well," he added. Mourns Gaza hospital deaths Talking about the Gaza hospital bombing that left hundreds of people dead, Biden urged Israel to open the Gaza-Egypt border to provide humanitarian assistance. "The United States unequivocally stands for the protection of civilian life during conflict. And I grieve, I truly grieve for the families who were killed or wounded by this tragedy," he added. Also read | It's a massacre: Gaza hospital horror unveiled “I asked the Israeli cabinet.. to agree to the delivery of life-saving humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza based on the understanding that there will be inspections, and that the aid should go to civilians and not to Hamas," he says. Also read | Gaza hospital strike 'done by other team', Biden tells Israel's Netanyahu: "Israel agreed the humanitarian assistance can begin to move from Egypt to Gaza," he adds. Announces aid for Gaza and West Bank Biden adds he is working with partners in the region, such as Egypt, to "get trucks moving across the border as soon as possible". He also announces US$100 million "new US funding for humanitarian assistance to both Gaza and the West Bank". Earlier, starting his address, Biden said, “I have come to Israel with a simple message: You are not alone. As long as the United States stands – and we will stand forever – you will not be alone.” Biden had said in a post on X earlier, “I spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding the situation on the ground, security assistance and humanitarian needs, and information on unaccounted Americans. I asked tough questions as a friend of Israel. We will continue to deter any actor wanting to widen this conflict.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US President Joe Biden appeals for calm, asks Israelis ‘not to get consumed by rage’

<p>US President Joe Biden's wartime visit&nbsp;to West Asia has been upended by a deadly strike at a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-500-killed-after-israeli-airstrikes-target-hospital-claims-gaza-health-ministry-648141">Gaza hospital that killed hundreds of Palestinians</a>, in the deadliest civilian casualty event of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war so far. On October 17, when&nbsp;Biden's&nbsp;Air Force One took off from Joint Base Andrews to Tel Aviv, protesters halfway across the world in the Jordanian capital of Amman attempted to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestine-protests-break-out-across-west-asia-after-gaza-hospital-strike-648170">breach security barriers</a> placed close to the Israeli embassy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As Biden's plane was still inside the US air space, the announcement came from Amman's foreign ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Jordanian kingdom cancelled a scheduled four-war summit between Joe Biden, Jordan's King Abdullah II, Egypt's President&nbsp;Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, and the Palestinian Authority leader&nbsp;Mahmoud Abbas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The summit will be held "when the decision to stop the war and put an end to these massacres has been taken", Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said.<br />
<br />
Biden's West Asia visit comes after days of shuttle diplomacy led by State Secretary Antony Blinken, who covered ten stops during the course of five days and extended his wartime visit in the region to six days against the original schedule of just two days.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shuttle-diplomacy-blinken-meets-jordanian-king-palestinian-president-abbas-in-amman-646310">Shuttle diplomacy: Blinken meets Jordanian King, Palestinian President Abbas in Amman</a></strong></p>

<p>Blinken visited&nbsp;Egypt, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, with two stops each in Israel, Jordan and Saudi Arabia.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today, at our request, the United States and Israel have agreed to develop a plan that will enable humanitarian aid from donor nations and multilateral organizations to reach civilians in Gaza, including the possibility of creating areas to help keep civilians out of harm’s way.</p>
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1714076759963136319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The Jordanian government’s cancellation of President Biden’s trip serves as a glaring indicator of the United States’ waning political capital in the Middle East," Raed Jarrar, Advocacy Director at Washington-based Democracy For The Arab World Now (DAWN) non-profit, told WION.<img alt="Raed Jarrar is an Arab-American political advocate based in Washington, DC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="182b467d-0b72-4516-a0b4-32f6913ea710" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-10-18T082240.139.png" /></p>

<p><em>Raed Jarrar is an Arab-American political advocate based in Washington, DC</em></p>

<p>"President Biden's statements, which perpetuate a 'blank check' policy towards Israel, are driving a wedge between the US and other nations in the region," added Jarrar.</p>

<p>The term 'blank check' policy in reference to the US policies in West Asia came into vogue after the Trump administration was accused of turning a blind eye towards&nbsp;Saudi Arabia — given its longstanding partnership with the oil-rich kingdom —&nbsp;after the murder of dissident Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jarrar believes that the Biden administration is also pursuing a 'blank check' policy&nbsp;with Israel amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: US President Biden's Israel visit with 'strategic importance'</strong></p>

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<p>"The time has come for the United States to shift its approach from blank-check support to serving as a broker for peace," Jarrar said.</p>

<p>"President Biden should urgently call for a ceasefire, rather than continue to tacitly support the deeply troubling and devastating Israeli actions in Gaza," he added.</p>

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US President Joe Biden's wartime visit to West Asia has been upended by a deadly strike at a Gaza hospital that killed hundreds of Palestinians, in the deadliest civilian casualty event of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war so far.

US President Joe Biden's wartime visit to West Asia has been upended by a deadly strike at a Gaza hospital that killed hundreds of Palestinians, in the deadliest civilian casualty event of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war so far. On October 17, when Biden's Air Force One took off from Joint Base Andrews to Tel Aviv, protesters halfway across the world in the Jordanian capital of Amman attempted to breach security barriers placed close to the Israeli embassy. As Biden's plane was still inside the US air space, the announcement came from Amman's foreign ministry. The Jordanian kingdom cancelled a scheduled four-war summit between Joe Biden, Jordan's King Abdullah II, Egypt's President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, and the Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas. The summit will be held "when the decision to stop the war and put an end to these massacres has been taken", Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said. Biden's West Asia visit comes after days of shuttle diplomacy led by State Secretary Antony Blinken, who covered ten stops during the course of five days and extended his wartime visit in the region to six days against the original schedule of just two days. Also read | Shuttle diplomacy: Blinken meets Jordanian King, Palestinian President Abbas in Amman Blinken visited Egypt, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, with two stops each in Israel, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Today, at our request, the United States and Israel have agreed to develop a plan that will enable humanitarian aid from donor nations and multilateral organizations to reach civilians in Gaza, including the possibility of creating areas to help keep civilians out of harm’s way. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) October 17, 2023 × "The Jordanian government’s cancellation of President Biden’s trip serves as a glaring indicator of the United States’ waning political capital in the Middle East," Raed Jarrar, Advocacy Director at Washington-based Democracy For The Arab World Now (DAWN) non-profit, told WION. Raed Jarrar is an Arab-American political advocate based in Washington, DC "President Biden's statements, which perpetuate a 'blank check' policy towards Israel, are driving a wedge between the US and other nations in the region," added Jarrar. The term 'blank check' policy in reference to the US policies in West Asia came into vogue after the Trump administration was accused of turning a blind eye towards Saudi Arabia — given its longstanding partnership with the oil-rich kingdom — after the murder of dissident Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Jarrar believes that the Biden administration is also pursuing a 'blank check' policy with Israel amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: US President Biden's Israel visit with 'strategic importance' × "The time has come for the United States to shift its approach from blank-check support to serving as a broker for peace," Jarrar said. "President Biden should urgently call for a ceasefire, rather than continue to tacitly support the deeply troubling and devastating Israeli actions in Gaza," 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.

Spotlight on Washington's waning political capital after Gaza hospital blast sinks Biden's Jordan summit

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- US President Joe Biden reaffirms US' support for Israel, New Delhi hosts half marathon 2023 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, a glitch in 'X' enabled the hijacking of CIA informant channel.

US Pres Joe Biden reaffirms US' support for Israel; New Delhi hosts half marathon | Trending on WION

Joe Biden is in Tel Aviv but his efforts to bring down tensions in the escalating war between Israel and Hamas faced massive setbacks even before he departed for West Asia. Jordan called off the US president's planned Summit with Arab leaders after a deadly explosion at Gaza Hospital killed hundreds.

Israel-Palestine war: Joe Biden says, 'Hamas doesn't represent all Palestinians' | World News | WION

The US has just fired another shot in the ongoing tech trade war with China. In a move that's making waves across the globe, the Biden administration has taken a stand to halt shipments of advanced artificial intelligence chips. But this is much more than just a trade restriction; it's a strategic chess move that could shape the future of AI and global security.

US tightens rules on AI chip sales to China, update will cut off China from advanced AI chips

US: Joe Biden's West Asia trip dampened by Gaza hospital attack

<p>Amid soaring tensions in West Asia, the United States has put about 2,000 troops on prepare-to-deploy orders for possible support to Israel, the Associated Press reported on Monday citing a defence official.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The readiness appeared to be in anticipation of an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza, which is aimed at rescuing hostages taken during the Oct 7 attack by Hamas and crushing the militant group that rules the enclave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the US-based media outlets cited the official as further saying that the troops are not being sent anywhere yet, nor would they necessarily go to Israel or Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report added the US soldiers would not be sent to Israel but could be assigned to other countries so that they help with&nbsp;medical assistance and other humanitarian services.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-hamas-releases-chilling-footage-of-hurt-and-scared-hostage-647745">Hamas releases chilling footage of 'hurt and scared' hostage</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden spoke about the ongoing situation in West Asia during an interview with CBS news programme 60 Minutes, saying any occupation of Gaza by the American ally would be a "big mistake".&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked if he could foresee US troops joining the war, Biden said, "I don't think that's necessary. Israel has one of the finest fighting forces in the country. I guarantee we're gonna provide them everything they need."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United States has already deployed two aircraft carriers to the eastern Mediterranean in a powerful show of support for Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Alsp read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slapped-with-gag-order-in-2020-election-subversion-case-647735">Trump slapped with gag order in 2020 election subversion case</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gaza hospitals at breaking point post-war broke out&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Biden to visit Israel&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The White House said Biden will travel from Israel to Amman on Wednesday for talks with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordanian King Abdullah II.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated that Biden will pay a solidarity visit to Israel on Wednesday following the Hamas attacks. He also announced that Israel had agreed to work on civilian aid for Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Blinken spoke after meeting for nearly eight hours at the defence ministry with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during the top US diplomat's second visit since the Oct 7 attacks by Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The president will reaffirm United States solidarity with Israel and our ironclad commitment to its security," Blinken said early Tuesday in Tel Aviv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Israel has the right and indeed the duty to defend its people from Hamas and other terrorists and to prevent future attacks," Blinken said.</p>

<p>Biden "will hear from Israel what it needs to defend his people as we continue to work with Congress to meet those needs," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Amid soaring tensions in West Asia, the United States has put about 2,000 troops on prepare-to-deploy orders for possible support to Israel, the Associated Press reported on Monday citing a defence official.

Amid soaring tensions in West Asia, the United States has put about 2,000 troops on prepare-to-deploy orders for possible support to Israel, the Associated Press reported on Monday citing a defence official. The readiness appeared to be in anticipation of an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza, which is aimed at rescuing hostages taken during the Oct 7 attack by Hamas and crushing the militant group that rules the enclave. But the US-based media outlets cited the official as further saying that the troops are not being sent anywhere yet, nor would they necessarily go to Israel or Gaza. The report added the US soldiers would not be sent to Israel but could be assigned to other countries so that they help with medical assistance and other humanitarian services. Also read: Hamas releases chilling footage of 'hurt and scared' hostage Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden spoke about the ongoing situation in West Asia during an interview with CBS news programme 60 Minutes, saying any occupation of Gaza by the American ally would be a "big mistake". On being asked if he could foresee US troops joining the war, Biden said, "I don't think that's necessary. Israel has one of the finest fighting forces in the country. I guarantee we're gonna provide them everything they need." The United States has already deployed two aircraft carriers to the eastern Mediterranean in a powerful show of support for Israel. Alsp read: Trump slapped with gag order in 2020 election subversion case Watch: Gaza hospitals at breaking point post-war broke out × Biden to visit Israel The White House said Biden will travel from Israel to Amman on Wednesday for talks with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordanian King Abdullah II. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated that Biden will pay a solidarity visit to Israel on Wednesday following the Hamas attacks. He also announced that Israel had agreed to work on civilian aid for Gaza. Blinken spoke after meeting for nearly eight hours at the defence ministry with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during the top US diplomat's second visit since the Oct 7 attacks by Hamas. "The president will reaffirm United States solidarity with Israel and our ironclad commitment to its security," Blinken said early Tuesday in Tel Aviv. "Israel has the right and indeed the duty to defend its people from Hamas and other terrorists and to prevent future attacks," Blinken said. Biden "will hear from Israel what it needs to defend his people as we continue to work with Congress to meet those needs," he added. (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.

Israel-Hamas war: US puts 2,000 troops on prepare-to-deploy orders, says report

<p>The US military has readied 2,000 troops for their potential deployment to the Middle East should the conflict between Israel and Hamas escalates.</p>

<p>Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said the deployment would allow the United States “to respond more quickly” to the crisis, even as the White House clarified that the US forces would not serve in combat roles.</p>

<p>These troops, selected from across the US armed services and currently stationed across Europe, will be tasked with missions like advising and medical support, the Wall Street Journal reported.</p>

<h2><strong>Troops not for combat&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>National Security Council spokesman John Kirby asserted that deploying troops “is really about sending a signal of deterrence”.</p>

<p>“We don’t want to see this conflict escalate and widen,” Kirby told CNN. “There are no plans or intentions to put US boots on the ground in combat in Israel.”</p>

<h2><strong>Israel-Hamas war: US President Joe Biden to meet Palestine leader</strong></h2>

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<h2><strong>Biden to begin his Middle East trip</strong></h2>

<p>The development comes at a time when Joe Biden is expected to begin his trip to the Middle East on Tuesday (Oct 17) evening to meet leaders of Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and Palestine in a bid to de-escalate the situation in the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Biden will meet Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv for talks. The US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, has already made two trips to Israel since the Hamas attack on 7 October.</p>

<p>Later, Biden is expected to fly to Amman in Jordan for talks about accelerating humanitarian assistance to Gaza, where he will meet Jordan’s King Abdullah, the Egyptian president, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, and the Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-family-on-gaza-border-killed-in-hamas-attack-found-dead-hugging-each-other-647813">Israel-Hamas war: A family attacked on Gaza border was found dead hugging each other</a></p>

<p>According to Reuters, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said: “He’ll make it clear that we want to continue working with all our partners in the region, including Israel, to get humanitarian assistance in and provide some kind of safe passage for civilians to get out.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-revoke-ratification-of-comprehensive-nuclear-test-ban-treaty-647867">Russia to revoke ratification of Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty</a></p>

<p>So far, more than 1,400 Israelis, including civilians and soldiers, have lost their lives in the unprecedented assault launched by the Hamas terror group on October 7, while at least 3,000 people have died in the retaliatory strikes by Israel.</p>

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The US military has readied 2,000 troops for their potential deployment to the Middle East should the conflict between Israel and Hamas escalates. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said the deployment would allow the United States “to respond more quickly” to the crisis, even as the White House clarified that the US forces would not serve in combat roles.

The US military has readied 2,000 troops for their potential deployment to the Middle East should the conflict between Israel and Hamas escalates. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said the deployment would allow the United States “to respond more quickly” to the crisis, even as the White House clarified that the US forces would not serve in combat roles. These troops, selected from across the US armed services and currently stationed across Europe, will be tasked with missions like advising and medical support, the Wall Street Journal reported. Troops not for combat National Security Council spokesman John Kirby asserted that deploying troops “is really about sending a signal of deterrence”. “We don’t want to see this conflict escalate and widen,” Kirby told CNN. “There are no plans or intentions to put US boots on the ground in combat in Israel.” Israel-Hamas war: US President Joe Biden to meet Palestine leader Biden to begin his Middle East trip The development comes at a time when Joe Biden is expected to begin his trip to the Middle East on Tuesday (Oct 17) evening to meet leaders of Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and Palestine in a bid to de-escalate the situation in the Gaza Strip. On Wednesday, Biden will meet Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv for talks. The US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, has already made two trips to Israel since the Hamas attack on 7 October. Later, Biden is expected to fly to Amman in Jordan for talks about accelerating humanitarian assistance to Gaza, where he will meet Jordan’s King Abdullah, the Egyptian president, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, and the Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: A family attacked on Gaza border was found dead hugging each other According to Reuters, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said: “He’ll make it clear that we want to continue working with all our partners in the region, including Israel, to get humanitarian assistance in and provide some kind of safe passage for civilians to get out.” Also read | Russia to revoke ratification of Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty So far, more than 1,400 Israelis, including civilians and soldiers, have lost their lives in the unprecedented assault launched by the Hamas terror group on October 7, while at least 3,000 people have died in the retaliatory strikes by Israel. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel-Hamas war: US military readies 2,000 troops for potential Middle East deployment as war escalates

<p>The Biden administration reached a legal&nbsp;agreement on Monday with more than 4,000 migrants who were separated from their families during&nbsp;Donald&nbsp;Trump's tenure at the U.S.-Mexico border. Under the&nbsp;legal settlement, the families would be allowed&nbsp;to live and work in the US&nbsp;for three years while receiving housing, mental health and legal assistance to apply for asylum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This move, however,&nbsp;includes limitations on the government's ability to implement similar policies in the future, as part of a resolution to a longstanding court case.<br />
<br />
The settlement prohibits the federal government from separating any migrant families crossing the border for eight years unless the parents are considered a danger to their children or the public or they have previously entered the country illegally more than twice.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is the settlement about?</strong></h2>

<p>Along with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the Biden administration has proposed a plan to settle a class-action lawsuit related to the Trump-era practice of forcibly separating nearly 4,000 migrant children from their parents near the US-Mexico border.</p>

<h2><strong>What next?</strong></h2>

<p>The settlement, expected to last six years, awaits approval from US District Judge Dana Sabraw, who previously banned such separations in 2018.</p>

<p>If approved, the 46-page settlement agreement, seen by WION, will establish a special process for separated families to request&nbsp;asylum in the United States and significantly restrict the legal grounds for government-sanctioned family separations.</p>

<p>Future separations will only be allowed in rare cases, such as those involving abusive parents or individuals with serious criminal records.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the proposed special asylum process?</strong></h2>

<p>Under the proposed special asylum process, families separated under the previous administration would be able to apply for asylum through the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), with USCIS considering the trauma caused by the separations when reviewing asylum cases.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-separating-children-from-families-deters-illegal-immigration-171387">Trump says separating children from families deters illegal immigration</a></strong></p>

<p>The agreement also provides access to government-funded housing benefits, legal counsel, and medical and mental health services for covered families.</p>

<h2><strong>Is there any monetary compensation in the settlement?</strong></h2>

<p>The settlement does not include monetary compensation, as some separated families had sought in federal courts.</p>

<p>The Biden administration initially considered reparations but abandoned the idea due to strong Republican opposition.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Republicans open first hearing in Biden impeachment inquiry</strong></p>

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<p>The American Civil Liberties Union lawyer representing these families told CBS News that the agreement offers an opportunity for lawful status and prevents a future administration from implementing a similar separation policy.</p>

<p>The ACLU estimates that between 500 and 1,500 migrant children separated during the Trump administration are still apart from their families, with difficulties in tracking them due to insufficient&nbsp;record-keeping at the time.</p>

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The Biden administration reached a legal agreement on Monday with more than 4,000 migrants who were separated from their families during Donald Trump's tenure at the U.

The Biden administration reached a legal agreement on Monday with more than 4,000 migrants who were separated from their families during Donald Trump's tenure at the U.S.-Mexico border. Under the legal settlement, the families would be allowed to live and work in the US for three years while receiving housing, mental health and legal assistance to apply for asylum. This move, however, includes limitations on the government's ability to implement similar policies in the future, as part of a resolution to a longstanding court case. The settlement prohibits the federal government from separating any migrant families crossing the border for eight years unless the parents are considered a danger to their children or the public or they have previously entered the country illegally more than twice. What is the settlement about? Along with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the Biden administration has proposed a plan to settle a class-action lawsuit related to the Trump-era practice of forcibly separating nearly 4,000 migrant children from their parents near the US-Mexico border. What next? The settlement, expected to last six years, awaits approval from US District Judge Dana Sabraw, who previously banned such separations in 2018. If approved, the 46-page settlement agreement, seen by WION, will establish a special process for separated families to request asylum in the United States and significantly restrict the legal grounds for government-sanctioned family separations. Future separations will only be allowed in rare cases, such as those involving abusive parents or individuals with serious criminal records. What is the proposed special asylum process? Under the proposed special asylum process, families separated under the previous administration would be able to apply for asylum through the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), with USCIS considering the trauma caused by the separations when reviewing asylum cases. Also read | Trump says separating children from families deters illegal immigration The agreement also provides access to government-funded housing benefits, legal counsel, and medical and mental health services for covered families. Is there any monetary compensation in the settlement? The settlement does not include monetary compensation, as some separated families had sought in federal courts. The Biden administration initially considered reparations but abandoned the idea due to strong Republican opposition. Also watch | Republicans open first hearing in Biden impeachment inquiry × The American Civil Liberties Union lawyer representing these families told CBS News that the agreement offers an opportunity for lawful status and prevents a future administration from implementing a similar separation policy. The ACLU estimates that between 500 and 1,500 migrant children separated during the Trump administration are still apart from their families, with difficulties in tracking them due to insufficient record-keeping at the time. 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.

Biden administration reaches deal with migrants separated from their families under Trump rule

The United States President Joe Biden will pay a solidarity visit to Israel on Wednesday following the Hamas attacks. Iran has warned of possible preemptive actions against Israel in the coming hours. As Tel Aviv gears up for a ground offensive on the Gaza strip, Hamas says they are ready and it does not scare them.

Israel-Palestine war: US President Biden's Israel visit with 'strategic importance'

China is hosting representatives of 130 Nations for a forum that marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. The Forum that started on Monday focused on Beijing's International infrastructure plan something that is considered to be an important part of Chinese President Xi Jinping's effort to expand the nation's global reach.

China Belt and Road summit kicks off; Russian President Putin reaches Beijing amidst war

<p>US President Joe Biden will pay a solidarity visit to Israel on Wednesday (Oct 18)&nbsp;following the Hamas attacks, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is currently in Israel himself,&nbsp;announced on October 17.</p>

<p>"The president will reaffirm United States solidarity with Israel and our ironclad commitment to its security," Blinken said early Tuesday after overnight talks in Tel Aviv with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-hamas-releases-chilling-footage-of-hurt-and-scared-hostage-647745">Video: Hamas releases chilling footage of 'hurt and scared' hostage</a></strong></p>

<p>Biden's scheduled visit coincides with a&nbsp;deepening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and Israel's preparations for a potential ground assault against Hamas.</p>

<p>This assault has been described&nbsp;by the American and Israeli officials in and beyond Washington and Tel Aviv&nbsp;as the most devastating attack on Jews since the Holocaust.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>President Biden's primary objective is to convey unequivocal support for Israel amid its ongoing state of war with Hamas.</p>

<p>His Democratic administration has committed to supplying military aid, including deploying US carriers and delivering assistance to the region.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Gaza's spiralling humanitarian crisis</strong></p>

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<p>They have expressed their intent to seek over $2 billion in additional aid from the US Congress, designated initially just for Ukraine (amid its ongoing war with Russia).</p>

<h2><strong>Biden's expected visit to include interactions with leaders from across West Asia</strong></h2>

<p>Blinken's announcement followed a marathon of discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other prominent Israeli officials.</p>

<p>Additionally, it was announced in Washington that President Biden would extend his travels to Jordan for meetings with King Abdullah, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.</p>

<p>President Biden had initially slated a visit to Pueblo, Colorado, for Monday, the Associated Press reported.</p>

<p>Biden instead&nbsp;opted to postpone the trip to engage in consultations with his advisors and engage in discussions with fellow global leaders regarding the evolving situation in West Asia.</p>

<p>After more than 1,300 Israelis were killed in an unprecedented attack by Hamas during the Oct 7-8 weekend, the retaliatory action from Israel has claimed the lives of over 2,800 Palestinians,&nbsp;an overwhelming of them in the Gaza Strip from where Hamas operates.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US President Joe Biden will pay a solidarity visit to Israel on Wednesday (Oct 18) following the Hamas attacks, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is currently in Israel himself, announced on October 17.

US President Joe Biden will pay a solidarity visit to Israel on Wednesday (Oct 18) following the Hamas attacks, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is currently in Israel himself, announced on October 17. "The president will reaffirm United States solidarity with Israel and our ironclad commitment to its security," Blinken said early Tuesday after overnight talks in Tel Aviv with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Also read | Video: Hamas releases chilling footage of 'hurt and scared' hostage Biden's scheduled visit coincides with a deepening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and Israel's preparations for a potential ground assault against Hamas. This assault has been described by the American and Israeli officials in and beyond Washington and Tel Aviv as the most devastating attack on Jews since the Holocaust. What does it mean? President Biden's primary objective is to convey unequivocal support for Israel amid its ongoing state of war with Hamas. His Democratic administration has committed to supplying military aid, including deploying US carriers and delivering assistance to the region. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza's spiralling humanitarian crisis × They have expressed their intent to seek over $2 billion in additional aid from the US Congress, designated initially just for Ukraine (amid its ongoing war with Russia). Biden's expected visit to include interactions with leaders from across West Asia Blinken's announcement followed a marathon of discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other prominent Israeli officials. Additionally, it was announced in Washington that President Biden would extend his travels to Jordan for meetings with King Abdullah, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. President Biden had initially slated a visit to Pueblo, Colorado, for Monday, the Associated Press reported. Biden instead opted to postpone the trip to engage in consultations with his advisors and engage in discussions with fellow global leaders regarding the evolving situation in West Asia. After more than 1,300 Israelis were killed in an unprecedented attack by Hamas during the Oct 7-8 weekend, the retaliatory action from Israel has claimed the lives of over 2,800 Palestinians, an overwhelming of them in the Gaza Strip from where Hamas operates. (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.

Israel-Hamas war: US President Biden to visit Israel on Wednesday, says Secy of State Blinken

<p>The 2024 re-election campaign of US President Joe Biden has joined Truth Social, which is a rightwing social media platform formed by Republican former president Donald Trump. The account, through the handle @BidenHQ, said that it is a “project of Biden-Harris 2024” and includes a banner image which says “the malarkey ends here”, referencing the signature colloquialism of the president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taking to X, the campaign wrote that it has joined Truth Social. “We just joined Truth Social, mostly because we thought it would be very funny," it&nbsp;said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “Follow us there for truths and retruths or whatever they call them.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Campaign uses meme of Biden as “Dark Brandon" in profile image</strong></h2>

<p>The campaign, in its profile image, chose to depict Biden as “Dark Brandon”, a meme in which Biden was shown with laser eyes and&nbsp;stems from the “Let’s Go Brandon” chant rightwing circles to stand in for saltier language opposing the president. This is the latest stunt in a line of memes and quips from the digital team of the president.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-biden-to-visit-israel-on-wednesday-says-antony-blinken-647743">Israel-Hamas war: Biden to visit Israel on Wednesday, says Antony Blinken</a></p>

<p>Although the new account is aimed to be in jest, it is clear Biden's election campaign has been using it to reach conservatives. Today, the first few posts by the account shared conservatives either giving credit to Biden or criticising Trump.</p>

<p>“Well. Let’s see how this goes. Converts welcome!” wrote Biden’s campaign&nbsp;in its first post on the Truth Social platform.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The campaign of Biden, speaking to Fox News Digital, said that using Truth Social would “meet voters where they are” while further combatting misinformation regarding Biden which spreads on the platform.</p>

<p>The mainstream social media platforms have made efforts to clamp down on hateful conduct and misinformation on their sites.&nbsp;Platforms like Truth Social have been minimally moderating the posts and permitting misinformation to spread more easily.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Biden to visit Israel as Gaza war sparks humanitarian crisis</strong></p>

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<p>However, the social media platform is not used widely. As per estimates, Truth Social has around 2 million users and Facebook has around 3 billion, while X has about a half-billion users.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first time the campaign of Biden has tried to troll conservatives online by coopting their online spaces and messaging.</p>

<p>In July, it used a video of Republican US&nbsp;Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, who is a Trump supporter, in which it compared Biden to Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Lyndon B. Johnson, to make an online ad.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The 2024 re-election campaign of US President Joe Biden has joined Truth Social, which is a rightwing social media platform formed by Republican former president Donald Trump.

The 2024 re-election campaign of US President Joe Biden has joined Truth Social, which is a rightwing social media platform formed by Republican former president Donald Trump. The account, through the handle @BidenHQ, said that it is a “project of Biden-Harris 2024” and includes a banner image which says “the malarkey ends here”, referencing the signature colloquialism of the president. Taking to X, the campaign wrote that it has joined Truth Social. “We just joined Truth Social, mostly because we thought it would be very funny," it said. It added, “Follow us there for truths and retruths or whatever they call them.” Campaign uses meme of Biden as “Dark Brandon" in profile image The campaign, in its profile image, chose to depict Biden as “Dark Brandon”, a meme in which Biden was shown with laser eyes and stems from the “Let’s Go Brandon” chant rightwing circles to stand in for saltier language opposing the president. This is the latest stunt in a line of memes and quips from the digital team of the president. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: Biden to visit Israel on Wednesday, says Antony Blinken Although the new account is aimed to be in jest, it is clear Biden's election campaign has been using it to reach conservatives. Today, the first few posts by the account shared conservatives either giving credit to Biden or criticising Trump. “Well. Let’s see how this goes. Converts welcome!” wrote Biden’s campaign in its first post on the Truth Social platform. The campaign of Biden, speaking to Fox News Digital, said that using Truth Social would “meet voters where they are” while further combatting misinformation regarding Biden which spreads on the platform. The mainstream social media platforms have made efforts to clamp down on hateful conduct and misinformation on their sites. Platforms like Truth Social have been minimally moderating the posts and permitting misinformation to spread more easily. WATCH | Israel-Palestine war: Biden to visit Israel as Gaza war sparks humanitarian crisis However, the social media platform is not used widely. As per estimates, Truth Social has around 2 million users and Facebook has around 3 billion, while X has about a half-billion users. This is not the first time the campaign of Biden has tried to troll conservatives online by coopting their online spaces and messaging. In July, it used a video of Republican US Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, who is a Trump supporter, in which it compared Biden to Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Lyndon B. Johnson, to make an online ad. (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

President Biden's re-election campaign joins Trump’s Truth Social, posts ‘Converts welcome!’

<p>United States President Joe Biden, in his latest comments on the Israel-Hamas war, has said that Israeli occupation of the Gaza Strip in the future will be a "big mistake",&nbsp;as he considered a trip to Israel amid the escalating war with Hamas. No decision was made about whether he will be travelling to Israel or not, as the National Security Council spokesperson said that the White House has not finalised any trip which needs to be announced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an interview with CBS News'&nbsp;60 Minutes,&nbsp;Biden said that he believed Israel would act in accordance with the rules of war and that innocent civilians would have access to water, food and medicine.&nbsp;He added that Israel should not occupy the territory for the long term, stating that the region must be governed by "a Palestinian authority."</p>

<p>"I think it'd be a big mistake. Look, what happened in Gaza, in my view, is Hamas and the extreme elements of Hamas don't represent all the Palestinian people," Biden said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-white-phosphorus-bombs-that-israel-reportedly-launched-in-gaza-it-is-legal-to-use-645106">What are white phosphorus bombs that Israel reportedly used in Gaza? Is it illegal?</a></strong></p>

<p>However, he added that carrying out an invasion and "taking out the extremists" is a "necessary requirement". When questioned if Hamas, who was described by Biden as "a bunch of cowards", should be entirely eliminated, he replied: "Yes I do."</p>

<p>"But there needs to be a Palestinian authority. There needs to be a path to a Palestinian state," he stated while reiterating the long-standing call by the United States for a two-state solution.</p>

<p>Biden was then asked by 60 Minutes journalist Scott Pelley if there are chances of US troops joining the war.</p>

<p>"I don't think that's necessary," said Biden, adding, "Israel has one of the finest fighting forces in the country. I guarantee we're gonna provide them everything they need."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>No mention of Hamas in President&nbsp;Abbas's comments on attack</strong></h2>

<p>The official news agency of the Palestinian Authority published comments by President Mahmoud Abbas on Sunday (Oct 15) in which he criticised Hamas over its actions.&nbsp;However, later the name of the militant group was removed without providing an explanation.</p>

<p>The comments, which were published on the WAFA website, were made when Abbas held a phone call with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The two leaders talked about the bombardment of Gaza by Israel following the deadly rampage of Hamas through Israeli cities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;IDF and Hamas to faceoff in upcoming assault</strong></p>

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<p>The original report published on the WAFA website on Abbas' call included the line: "The president also stressed that Hamas' policies and actions do not represent the Palestinian people, and the policies, programs and decisions of the (Palestine Liberation Organization) represent the Palestinian people as their sole legitimate representative."</p>

<p>However, hours later, the phrase was changed to, "The president also stressed that the policies, programs, and decisions of the PLO represent the Palestinian people as their sole legitimate representative, and not the policies of any other organisation."</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United States President Joe Biden, in his latest comments on the Israel-Hamas war, has said that Israeli occupation of the Gaza Strip in the future will be a "big mistake", as he considered a trip to Israel amid the escalating war with Hamas.

United States President Joe Biden, in his latest comments on the Israel-Hamas war, has said that Israeli occupation of the Gaza Strip in the future will be a "big mistake", as he considered a trip to Israel amid the escalating war with Hamas. No decision was made about whether he will be travelling to Israel or not, as the National Security Council spokesperson said that the White House has not finalised any trip which needs to be announced. In an interview with CBS News' 60 Minutes, Biden said that he believed Israel would act in accordance with the rules of war and that innocent civilians would have access to water, food and medicine. He added that Israel should not occupy the territory for the long term, stating that the region must be governed by "a Palestinian authority." "I think it'd be a big mistake. Look, what happened in Gaza, in my view, is Hamas and the extreme elements of Hamas don't represent all the Palestinian people," Biden said. Also read: What are white phosphorus bombs that Israel reportedly used in Gaza? Is it illegal? However, he added that carrying out an invasion and "taking out the extremists" is a "necessary requirement". When questioned if Hamas, who was described by Biden as "a bunch of cowards", should be entirely eliminated, he replied: "Yes I do." "But there needs to be a Palestinian authority. There needs to be a path to a Palestinian state," he stated while reiterating the long-standing call by the United States for a two-state solution. Biden was then asked by 60 Minutes journalist Scott Pelley if there are chances of US troops joining the war. "I don't think that's necessary," said Biden, adding, "Israel has one of the finest fighting forces in the country. I guarantee we're gonna provide them everything they need." No mention of Hamas in President Abbas's comments on attack The official news agency of the Palestinian Authority published comments by President Mahmoud Abbas on Sunday (Oct 15) in which he criticised Hamas over its actions. However, later the name of the militant group was removed without providing an explanation. The comments, which were published on the WAFA website, were made when Abbas held a phone call with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The two leaders talked about the bombardment of Gaza by Israel following the deadly rampage of Hamas through Israeli cities. Watch | IDF and Hamas to faceoff in upcoming assault The original report published on the WAFA website on Abbas' call included the line: "The president also stressed that Hamas' policies and actions do not represent the Palestinian people, and the policies, programs and decisions of the (Palestine Liberation Organization) represent the Palestinian people as their sole legitimate representative." However, hours later, the phrase was changed to, "The president also stressed that the policies, programs, and decisions of the PLO represent the Palestinian people as their sole legitimate representative, and not the policies of any other organisation." Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (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

Biden calls occupation of Gaza a 'big mistake', weighs trip to Israel

The White House said that it has started making plans for a meeting to be held in San Francisco between United States President Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in November, an attempt which is aimed at stabilising the tumultuous relationship between the two countries, as per senior administration officials.

Belt and Road initiative: Xi Jinping's key geopolitical project

Decade of China's belt & road initiative: A bid to extend China's global reach

A US landlord has been charged with murder and hate crime after he stabbed a Muslim woman and a six-year-old boy dozens of times. President Joe Biden has condemned the deadly stabbing attack.

US: Illinois man stabs six-year-old Muslim boy to death, charged with hate crime

<p>The US intelligence community is believed to have briefed President Joe Biden about the imminent violence between Hamas and Israel in the weeks ahead of the October 7 terrorist attacks, a CNN report has revealed.</p>

<p>One update came on September 28, backed by multiple intelligence inputs that indicated Hamas was planning a massive rocket attack on Israel. The second assessment was produced on October 5, when the country’s Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) warned of the increasing possibility of violence by Hamas.</p>

<p>On October 6, the day before Hamas’ assault, US officials reportedly circulated inputs that came directly from Israel. All of this heralded a massive Gazan attack on Israel.</p>

<p>It was unclear whether or not the US intelligence assessments were shared with the Israeli administration.</p>

<p>While the intelligence hinted at the possibility of violence, none of the inputs gave details or indicated the sheer scale and brutality of the attack.</p>

<h2><strong>Intelligence failure?</strong></h2>

<p>Since Israel-Hamas tensions are so frequent and prevalent, it is sometimes an arduous task for intelligence experts to predict or assess the gravity of the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;A week of Israel-Hamas fighting: Tales of horror</strong></p>

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<p>“The problem is that none of this is new,” said one of the sources familiar with the intelligence. “This is something that has historically been the norm between Hamas and Israel. I think what happened is everyone saw these reports and were like, ‘Yeah of course. But we know what this will look like,’” the source added.</p>

<h2><strong>Warning also came from a Middle Eastern ally</strong></h2>

<p>The evaluations were part of a series of stern alerts conveyed to the Biden administration by its own intelligence agencies and allies in the Middle East over the past year, prompting doubts about whether the United States and Israel were adequately prepared for the potential risks.</p>

<p>A senior representative from a Middle Eastern nation in the area indicated that their country had consistently expressed concerns to American and Israeli authorities regarding the escalating Palestinian tensions, yet, as the official put it, "They never listened every time we warned them.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-israel-closes-on-for-ground-assault-in-gaza-with-right-to-defend-stance-646094"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Top developments Oct 13 | Israel`s infantry, tanks enter Gaza, and more</strong></a></p>

<p>Furthermore, a Middle Eastern diplomat stationed in Washington, DC, was quoted by CNN as saying that their government had repeatedly cautioned the White House and American intelligence officials about the mounting stockpile of Hamas weaponry and the rising anger within the Palestinian population, which was on the verge of eruption.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The US intelligence community is believed to have briefed President Joe Biden about the imminent violence between Hamas and Israel in the weeks ahead of the October 7 terrorist attacks, a CNN report has revealed.

The US intelligence community is believed to have briefed President Joe Biden about the imminent violence between Hamas and Israel in the weeks ahead of the October 7 terrorist attacks, a CNN report has revealed. One update came on September 28, backed by multiple intelligence inputs that indicated Hamas was planning a massive rocket attack on Israel. The second assessment was produced on October 5, when the country’s Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) warned of the increasing possibility of violence by Hamas. On October 6, the day before Hamas’ assault, US officials reportedly circulated inputs that came directly from Israel. All of this heralded a massive Gazan attack on Israel. It was unclear whether or not the US intelligence assessments were shared with the Israeli administration. While the intelligence hinted at the possibility of violence, none of the inputs gave details or indicated the sheer scale and brutality of the attack. Intelligence failure? Since Israel-Hamas tensions are so frequent and prevalent, it is sometimes an arduous task for intelligence experts to predict or assess the gravity of the situation. Watch: A week of Israel-Hamas fighting: Tales of horror × “The problem is that none of this is new,” said one of the sources familiar with the intelligence. “This is something that has historically been the norm between Hamas and Israel. I think what happened is everyone saw these reports and were like, ‘Yeah of course. But we know what this will look like,’” the source added. Warning also came from a Middle Eastern ally The evaluations were part of a series of stern alerts conveyed to the Biden administration by its own intelligence agencies and allies in the Middle East over the past year, prompting doubts about whether the United States and Israel were adequately prepared for the potential risks. A senior representative from a Middle Eastern nation in the area indicated that their country had consistently expressed concerns to American and Israeli authorities regarding the escalating Palestinian tensions, yet, as the official put it, "They never listened every time we warned them.” Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Top developments Oct 13 | Israel`s infantry, tanks enter Gaza, and more Furthermore, a Middle Eastern diplomat stationed in Washington, DC, was quoted by CNN as saying that their government had repeatedly cautioned the White House and American intelligence officials about the mounting stockpile of Hamas weaponry and the rising anger within the Palestinian population, which was on the verge of eruption. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US intelligence warned of violence by Hamas in weeks ahead of Oct 7 assault: Report

<p>Vladimir Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan on Thursday marked his first trip abroad since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March.</p>

<p>The Russian President is wanted over allegations of deportation of Ukrainian children. However, Kyrgyzstan is not a member of the ICC, and it is not bound by the court's ruling to arrest him.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin in Kyrgyzstan</strong></h2>

<p>Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan was reported by Russian news agencies TASS, Interfax, and RIA Novosti early on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the visit, he is scheduled to meet with Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov and take part&nbsp;in a summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States. Russian ally, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, and other regional leaders will also participate in the summit.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-of-improved-position-near-east-ukraine-town-645608">Russia claims of 'improved' position near east Ukraine town</a></strong></p>

<p>However, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has decided to skip the summit.</p>

<p>Notably, Putin has been relatively absent from international travel since the launch of Russia's Ukraine offensive in February 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This year, he has only travelled to Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine. His last foreign visits to Belarus and Kyrgyzstan were in December of last year. However, as per AFP, Putin is planning future visits to North Korea and China.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>ICC arrest warrant</strong></h2>

<p>Moscow has denounced the warrant as "illegal" and has equated the Russian President's potential arrest abroad to an act of war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite that, Russia, in practice, has taken precautions to avoid Putin's arrest. This includes sending Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to represent the nation at a BRICS summit in ICC member South Africa in August.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-women-earn-less-than-men-nobel-economics-laureate-reflects-on-gender-gap-studies-645624">Why women earn less than men? Nobel economics laureate reflects on gender gap studies</a></strong></p>

<p>Commenting on his absence from Johannesburg, Putin earlier this month said: "Why should I create some problems for our friends during an event?".</p>

<p>"If I come, a political show will start," he added.</p>

<p>The ICC's ruling and the Rome Statute — ratified by 123 nations requires member countries to adhere to ICC decisions, have closed the door to a large part of the globe to Putin, reports AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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Vladimir Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan on Thursday marked his first trip abroad since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March.

Vladimir Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan on Thursday marked his first trip abroad since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March. The Russian President is wanted over allegations of deportation of Ukrainian children. However, Kyrgyzstan is not a member of the ICC, and it is not bound by the court's ruling to arrest him. Putin in Kyrgyzstan Putin's arrival in Kyrgyzstan was reported by Russian news agencies TASS, Interfax, and RIA Novosti early on Thursday. During the visit, he is scheduled to meet with Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov and take part in a summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States. Russian ally, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, and other regional leaders will also participate in the summit. Also read | Russia claims of 'improved' position near east Ukraine town However, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has decided to skip the summit. Notably, Putin has been relatively absent from international travel since the launch of Russia's Ukraine offensive in February 2022. This year, he has only travelled to Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine. His last foreign visits to Belarus and Kyrgyzstan were in December of last year. However, as per AFP, Putin is planning future visits to North Korea and China. ICC arrest warrant Moscow has denounced the warrant as "illegal" and has equated the Russian President's potential arrest abroad to an act of war. Despite that, Russia, in practice, has taken precautions to avoid Putin's arrest. This includes sending Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to represent the nation at a BRICS summit in ICC member South Africa in August. Also read | Why women earn less than men? Nobel economics laureate reflects on gender gap studies Commenting on his absence from Johannesburg, Putin earlier this month said: "Why should I create some problems for our friends during an event?". "If I come, a political show will start," he added. The ICC's ruling and the Rome Statute — ratified by 123 nations requires member countries to adhere to ICC decisions, have closed the door to a large part of the globe to Putin, reports AFP. (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.

Putin arrives in Kyrgyzstan for his first international trip since ICC arrest warrant

<p>US President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Oct 10) confirmed that American citizens are among the hostages captured by Hamas and described the Gaza-based militant group as&nbsp;"sheer evil" amid the ongoing state of war between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our hearts may be broken but our resolve is clear," Biden said while comparing the brutality of the Hamas militants to that of the Islamic State terrorist group.</p>

<p>He added: "Let there be no doubt. The United States has Israel’s back. We’ll make sure the Jewish and democratic state of Israel can defend itself today, and tomorrow as we always have."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-offers-support-to-netanyahu-says-us-will-always-have-israels-back-643840">Biden offers support to Netanyahu, says ‘US will always have Israel’s back’</a></strong></p>

<p>Biden said the number of US citizens confirmed to have been killed in the fighting has reached 14, up from 11 reported previously.</p>

<p>US officials said that the death toll could increase further as some 20 Americans remain unaccounted for and are either presumed dead or taken hostage by the Hamas militant group.</p>

<p>"There’s no justification for terrorism. There’s no excuse," Biden said. "Hamas does not stand for the Palestinian people’s right to dignity and self-determination. Their stated purpose is the annihilation of the state of Israel and the murder of Jewish people. They use Palestinian civilians as human shields."</p>

<h2><strong>Biden's veiled warning to Iran, Hezbollah</strong></h2>

<p>Biden said he has directed his team to share intelligence and military experts to consult and advise Israelis.</p>

<p>In a veiled warning to Iran which backs Lebanon-based armed militant group Hezbollah as a purported proxy against Israel, Biden said: "Let me say again to any country, any organisation, anyone thinking of taking advantage of the situation."</p>

<p>"I have one word: Don’t."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Joe Biden faces criticism as he heads into election year</strong></p>

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<p>"As president, I have no higher priority than the safety of Americans being held hostage around the world," Biden said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, US State Secretary Antony Blinken would travel to Israel to deliver a message of solidarity and support. Blinken will leave Wednesday and is expected to arrive Thursday.</p>

<p>The White House on Monday (Oct 9) confirmed that it has already begun delivering munitions and military equipment to Israel.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Oct 10) confirmed that American citizens are among the hostages captured by Hamas and described the Gaza-based militant group as "sheer evil" amid the ongoing state of war between Israel and Hamas.

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Oct 10) confirmed that American citizens are among the hostages captured by Hamas and described the Gaza-based militant group as "sheer evil" amid the ongoing state of war between Israel and Hamas. "Our hearts may be broken but our resolve is clear," Biden said while comparing the brutality of the Hamas militants to that of the Islamic State terrorist group. He added: "Let there be no doubt. The United States has Israel’s back. We’ll make sure the Jewish and democratic state of Israel can defend itself today, and tomorrow as we always have." Also read | Biden offers support to Netanyahu, says ‘US will always have Israel’s back’ Biden said the number of US citizens confirmed to have been killed in the fighting has reached 14, up from 11 reported previously. US officials said that the death toll could increase further as some 20 Americans remain unaccounted for and are either presumed dead or taken hostage by the Hamas militant group. "There’s no justification for terrorism. There’s no excuse," Biden said. "Hamas does not stand for the Palestinian people’s right to dignity and self-determination. Their stated purpose is the annihilation of the state of Israel and the murder of Jewish people. They use Palestinian civilians as human shields." Biden's veiled warning to Iran, Hezbollah Biden said he has directed his team to share intelligence and military experts to consult and advise Israelis. In a veiled warning to Iran which backs Lebanon-based armed militant group Hezbollah as a purported proxy against Israel, Biden said: "Let me say again to any country, any organisation, anyone thinking of taking advantage of the situation." "I have one word: Don’t." Also watch | Israel-Palestine war: Joe Biden faces criticism as he heads into election year × "As president, I have no higher priority than the safety of Americans being held hostage around the world," Biden said. Meanwhile, US State Secretary Antony Blinken would travel to Israel to deliver a message of solidarity and support. Blinken will leave Wednesday and is expected to arrive Thursday. The White House on Monday (Oct 9) confirmed that it has already begun delivering munitions and military equipment to Israel. (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.

Israel-Hamas war: Biden confirms 14 Americans dead, many held hostage

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