How soon is too soon for radicalisation? That's debatable, but four is definitely too young. In Australia, a four-year-old child's birthday cake is in the news for all the wrong reasons.&nbsp;

The cake features a notorious Hamas militant group terrorist, and Palestinian flags.

<h2>Mixed reactions</h2>

The cake was custom-made by Oven Bakery by Fufu, a Sydney-based bakery, which posted pictures of the Hamas-themed cake on its social media handles.

One of the pictures shows the four-year-old identified as "Omar" by the bakery, impersonating Abu Ubaida, a spokesman for Hamas.

Wearing a keffiyeh and camouflage, striking a pose synonymous with Ubaida, the boy can be seen standing next to the cake and raising his finger.&nbsp;

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The post has caused&nbsp;mixed reactions.

On the one hand, people left comments like "What a cutie Mashallah," and "Omar is a champion," and on the other, people felt disturbed by the "indoctrination" of the young child.

<img alt="Hamas cake" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fa9c14a-d524-4ef8-87ff-80c16443db81" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20-%202024-05-23T185325.696.jpg" />

As per the New York Pot, the criticism overshadowed the praise, leading the bakery to shut down its Instagram and Facebook pages to the public.

<h2>Child abuse?</h2>

Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, Australian Jewish Group chief executive Robert Gregory alleged, "Dressing a child up as a terrorist, including with what appears to be a Hamas headband, is reprehensible and a form of child abuse".

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"Islamic extremism and radicalisation of youth is not just a problem for the Jewish community. It's a threat to all Australians," he said, noting "Australia has seen several recent incidents of Muslim youth allegedly stabbing or plotting to attack other Australians.

"Indoctrination starts at a young age and is similar to what is seen across the Middle East," he added.

New South Wales premier Chris Minns called the images "horrifying" and said "Hamas is an evil terrorist organisation. Kids parties should be innocent and fun, not hateful."

(With inputs from agencies)

How soon is too soon for radicalisation? That's debatable, but four is definitely too young. In Australia, a four-year-old child's birthday cake is in the news for all the wrong reasons.

How soon is too soon for radicalisation? That's debatable, but four is definitely too young. In Australia, a four-year-old child's birthday cake is in the news for all the wrong reasons. The cake features a notorious Hamas militant group terrorist, and Palestinian flags. Mixed reactions The cake was custom-made by Oven Bakery by Fufu, a Sydney-based bakery, which posted pictures of the Hamas-themed cake on its social media handles. One of the pictures shows the four-year-old identified as "Omar" by the bakery, impersonating Abu Ubaida, a spokesman for Hamas. Wearing a keffiyeh and camouflage, striking a pose synonymous with Ubaida, the boy can be seen standing next to the cake and raising his finger. Also read | NYU forces pro-Palestinian protesters to watch 'The Simpsons' as punishment The post has caused mixed reactions. On the one hand, people left comments like "What a cutie Mashallah," and "Omar is a champion," and on the other, people felt disturbed by the "indoctrination" of the young child. As per the New York Pot, the criticism overshadowed the praise, leading the bakery to shut down its Instagram and Facebook pages to the public. Child abuse? Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, Australian Jewish Group chief executive Robert Gregory alleged, "Dressing a child up as a terrorist, including with what appears to be a Hamas headband, is reprehensible and a form of child abuse". Also read | Beware! Your ready-to-eat ultra-processed food may be readying you for stroke and dementia "Islamic extremism and radicalisation of youth is not just a problem for the Jewish community. It's a threat to all Australians," he said, noting "Australia has seen several recent incidents of Muslim youth allegedly stabbing or plotting to attack other Australians. "Indoctrination starts at a young age and is similar to what is seen across the Middle East," he added. New South Wales premier Chris Minns called the images "horrifying" and said "Hamas is an evil terrorist organisation. Kids parties should be innocent and fun, not hateful." (With inputs from agencies)

'Indoctrination': Four-year-old Australian kid's Hamas-themed birthday cake sparks anger

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Taiwan lawmakers exchange blows - 3 killed in Israeli strikes in Lebanon - European body adopts first AI treaty - US: Deadly storm slams Houston

Taiwan lawmakers exchange blows | 3 killed in Israeli strikes in Lebanon

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Fresh Israel strikes hit Lebanon - Scuffle in Taiwan's Parliament - Thunderstorms pound Houtson in US - UN: Recieved only 12% funds for Sudan - Stop Israel's Rafah offensive: South Africa to ICJ - Rare Xi, Putin hug to sign deal

Rare Xi, Putin hug to sign deal | Fresh Israeli strikes hit Lebanon

Israel on Thursday (May 16) slammed South Africa for its International Court of Justice (ICJ) case, alleging that the 'genocide' case was "presenting biased and false claims" that "rely on unreliable Hamas sources".

Kicking off the two-day&nbsp;hearing in The Hague, South Africa&nbsp;accused Israel of stepping up 'genocide' in Gaza and alleged "Israel's genocide has continued apace and has just reached a new and horrific stage".

Meanwhile, a statement from the Israel Foreign Ministry, as quoted by Reuters, said that "Israel acts in accordance with international law and its humanitarian obligations...while implementing measures to minimise harm to civilians and civilian facilities."

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It also called on the ICJ, also known as the World Court, "to reject South Africa's appeal and to bring the abuse of the Court to an end."

<h2>Order Ceasefire in Gaza, demands South Africa</h2>

South Africa has also implored the world court to order a ceasefire throughout Gaza.

Previously, in January, the ICJ had ordered Tel Aviv to do everything to prevent genocidal acts and enable humanitarian aid to Gaza.

However, the court, as per AFP, had stopped short of ordering a ceasefire.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-blasts-china-after-putin-xi-meet-says-you-cant-have-it-both-ways-722280">US blasts China after Putin-Xi meet, says 'you can't have it both ways'</a>

Now, South Africa contends that the current situation, most notably the operation in the crowded city of Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians have taken shelter, requires fresh ICJ action.

The Rafah campaign, argued Vaughan Lowe, a lawyer for South Africa, is "the last step in the destruction of Gaza and its Palestinian people".

"It was Rafah that brought South Africa to the court. But it is all Palestinians as a national, ethnical and racial group who need the protection from genocide that the court can order," he added.

However, Israel's foreign ministry spokesperson Oren Marmorstein in a statement slammed South Africa and said that the nation's "claims are both morally and factually distorted and constitute an abuse of the Genocide Convention and the ICJ."&nbsp;

Israel is scheduled to respond to South Africa's 'genocide' accusations on Friday (May 17).

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Thursday (May 16) slammed South Africa for its International Court of Justice (ICJ) case, alleging that the 'genocide' case was "presenting biased and false claims" that "rely on unreliable Hamas sources".

Israel on Thursday (May 16) slammed South Africa for its International Court of Justice (ICJ) case, alleging that the 'genocide' case was "presenting biased and false claims" that "rely on unreliable Hamas sources". Kicking off the two-day hearing in The Hague, South Africa accused Israel of stepping up 'genocide' in Gaza and alleged "Israel's genocide has continued apace and has just reached a new and horrific stage". Meanwhile, a statement from the Israel Foreign Ministry, as quoted by Reuters, said that "Israel acts in accordance with international law and its humanitarian obligations...while implementing measures to minimise harm to civilians and civilian facilities." Also read | House Republicans pass bill mandating weapons shipment to Israel It also called on the ICJ, also known as the World Court, "to reject South Africa's appeal and to bring the abuse of the Court to an end." Order Ceasefire in Gaza, demands South Africa South Africa has also implored the world court to order a ceasefire throughout Gaza. Previously, in January, the ICJ had ordered Tel Aviv to do everything to prevent genocidal acts and enable humanitarian aid to Gaza. However, the court, as per AFP, had stopped short of ordering a ceasefire. Also read | US blasts China after Putin-Xi meet, says 'you can't have it both ways' Now, South Africa contends that the current situation, most notably the operation in the crowded city of Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians have taken shelter, requires fresh ICJ action. The Rafah campaign, argued Vaughan Lowe, a lawyer for South Africa, is "the last step in the destruction of Gaza and its Palestinian people". "It was Rafah that brought South Africa to the court. But it is all Palestinians as a national, ethnical and racial group who need the protection from genocide that the court can order," he added. However, Israel's foreign ministry spokesperson Oren Marmorstein in a statement slammed South Africa and said that the nation's "claims are both morally and factually distorted and constitute an abuse of the Genocide Convention and the ICJ." Israel is scheduled to respond to South Africa's 'genocide' accusations on Friday (May 17). (With inputs from agencies)

At ICJ, South Africa alleges Israel 'stepping up' genocide in Gaza; Tel Aviv slams 'biased and false claims'

When Eugene O'Neill said, "There is no present or future - only the past, happening over and over again - now," and when Karl Marx said, "History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce," were they speaking of Palestinians and their 'Nakba'?

On Wednesday (May 15), Palestinians commemorated the 1948 "Nakba" (catastrophe), marking the time when hundreds and thousands of them had their homes wrenched from them as the state of Israel was born. The 76th anniversary of the Palestinian Nakba was marked even as fighting rages on in Gaza, rendering hundreds of thousands homeless.

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<h2>"Keys" from the past, and present</h2>

According to reports, as a symbol of their loss, displaced Palestinians are holding onto the keys to their damaged or destroyed homes, a tradition dating back to the mass displacement of 1948.

Most people in Gaza, as per Reuters, are descendants of the Palestinians who fled or were driven from their homes by the "nakba" of 1948.&nbsp;

The keys to their homes have been handed down generation to generations, a symbol of what they consider their right to return to their homes. Now, keys to homes bombarded in the ongoing Gaza war are also taking on a similar symbolic meaning.

"There is no catastrophe worse than this one," an 80-year-old Palestinian woman Umm Mohammed told the news agency.

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Umm is a survivor of the original Nakba, which happened when she was only a child in the southern town of Beersheba. Surviving that catastrophe, she had come to Gaza, where she has spent most of her life and where she now lives in a tent in the southern city of Rafah.

"I've been here for about 80 years and a catastrophe like this, I have not seen. Our homes have gone, our children have gone, our property has gone, our gold has gone, our incomes have gone - nothing is left. What is left for us to cry over?" she asked.

Another displaced Palestinian, 58-year-old Faridah Abu Artema currently residing in a tent encampment near Rafah said, "My mother and father told me about the Nakba, the first one, but this Nakba here is worse."

This is destruction. They've destroyed us - what we have seen, no one else has seen. This is a tragedy."

Seven months into the war, the conflict in Gaza has already claimed the lives of over 35,000 Palestinians and has displaced almost 800,000 more.

(With inputs from agencies)

When Eugene O'Neill said, "There is no present or future - only the past, happening over and over again - now," and when Karl Marx said, "History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce," were they speaking of Palestinians and their 'Nakba'?

When Eugene O'Neill said, "There is no present or future - only the past, happening over and over again - now," and when Karl Marx said, "History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce," were they speaking of Palestinians and their 'Nakba'? On Wednesday (May 15), Palestinians commemorated the 1948 "Nakba" (catastrophe), marking the time when hundreds and thousands of them had their homes wrenched from them as the state of Israel was born. The 76th anniversary of the Palestinian Nakba was marked even as fighting rages on in Gaza, rendering hundreds of thousands homeless. Also read | Pro-Palestinian protest: University Irvine demonstration leads to police action, several arrested "Keys" from the past, and present According to reports, as a symbol of their loss, displaced Palestinians are holding onto the keys to their damaged or destroyed homes, a tradition dating back to the mass displacement of 1948. Most people in Gaza, as per Reuters, are descendants of the Palestinians who fled or were driven from their homes by the "nakba" of 1948. The keys to their homes have been handed down generation to generations, a symbol of what they consider their right to return to their homes. Now, keys to homes bombarded in the ongoing Gaza war are also taking on a similar symbolic meaning. "There is no catastrophe worse than this one," an 80-year-old Palestinian woman Umm Mohammed told the news agency. Also read | Israeli defence min opposes Bibi, endorses 'non-hostile Palestinian governing alternative' for Gaza post-war Umm is a survivor of the original Nakba, which happened when she was only a child in the southern town of Beersheba. Surviving that catastrophe, she had come to Gaza, where she has spent most of her life and where she now lives in a tent in the southern city of Rafah. "I've been here for about 80 years and a catastrophe like this, I have not seen. Our homes have gone, our children have gone, our property has gone, our gold has gone, our incomes have gone - nothing is left. What is left for us to cry over?" she asked. Another displaced Palestinian, 58-year-old Faridah Abu Artema currently residing in a tent encampment near Rafah said, "My mother and father told me about the Nakba, the first one, but this Nakba here is worse." This is destruction. They've destroyed us - what we have seen, no one else has seen. This is a tragedy." Seven months into the war, the conflict in Gaza has already claimed the lives of over 35,000 Palestinians and has displaced almost 800,000 more. (With inputs from agencies)

'Keys' become a symbol of Palestinian plight amid war in Gaza: 'This Nakba here is worse'

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Caledonia riots: Macron holds cabinet meet - Zelensky cancels Spain & Portugal visit - Top Hezbollah Commander killed in Lebanon - Thailand: Royal reform activist dies in custody - Chinese Coast Guard shadows Filipino boat - Pakistan readies Fatah-II rocket

Chinese Coast Guard shadows Filipino boat | Pakistan readies Fatah-II rocket

What we might know of Lebanon and what the ground reality is, might not be the same. WION gets you this ground report, to show the effects of war and life in Lebanon.

Israel war: Spike in Hezbollah-IDF cross-border fire

Hezbollah claimed to have fired Katyusha rockets against Israel in revenge for strikes in southern Lebanon that killed two civilians, according to official media.

Israel war: Israel engaged in exchange fire with Lebanon's Hezbollah

In a dramatic display of outrage, Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan shredded a copy of the UN Charter during the&nbsp;United Nations General Assembly session in New York on Friday (May 10). This happened as a resolution supporting full UN membership for Palestine was overwhelmingly passed during the session.

<h2>Resolution for Palestine's membership</h2>

The UNGA in an overwhelming vote passed a resolution asking the Security Council to make Palestine, which has UN observer status, a full member. The resolution, which was proposed by the United Arab Emirates, received the backing of 143 nations, including India.

While 25 countries abstained, nine, including the United States and Israel, opposed it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-general-assembly-approves-resolution-granting-palestine-new-rights-720206">UN General Assembly votes for granting Palestine new rights, member status</a>

This vote grants Palestine, currently an observer state, a stronger push towards full membership, a status that must ultimately be approved by the Security Council.

<h2>A 'clear violation'</h2>

Ambassador Erdan vehemently criticised the resolution, branding it a "clear violation" of the UN Charter and accusing the General Assembly of bypassing a US veto that was cast in the Security Council the previous month.&nbsp;

"This day will go down in infamy," Erdan declared during his impassioned speech. "I want the entire world to remember this moment, this immoral act...today I want to hold up a mirror for you, so you can see what exactly you are inflicting upon the UN Charter with this destructive vote. You are shredding the UN Charter with your own hands," he told the assembly members as he held up a miniature shredder and shredded a copy of the UN charter.

Watch video here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today, I demonstrated to the General Assembly what they are doing to the UN Charter by ignoring it and shredded it on the stage. I told the ambassadors that today will go down in infamy and I want the world to remember when they shredded the UN Charter to advance a Nazi regime… <a href="https://t.co/NulOtHsAdK">pic.twitter.com/NulOtHsAdK</a>
— Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/giladerdan1/status/1788989669507469700?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Erdan escalated his rhetoric by saying that the resolution opens up the UN to "modern day Nazis," a reference to Hamas.

Calling Hamas leader, Yahya Sinwar, "the Hitler of our times," he said, "Today, you are also about to grant privileges and rights&nbsp;to the future terror state of Hamas. You have opened up the United Nations for modern day Nazis, to the Hitler of our times."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israels-use-of-us-supplied-weapons-may-have-violated-international-law-says-washington-720237">Gaza war: Israel's use of US-supplied weapons may have violated international law, says Washington</a>

Holding up an image of Sinwar, Erdan further added, "I present to you the future outcome of today's vote...the soon-to-be President, Yahya Sinwar, President tyrant of the State of Hamas, sponsored by the UN, and he owes his deepest gratitude to you, the General Assembly."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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This is the future president of the terrorist state that the UN is promoting‼️ I showed the ambassadors the picture of Yahya Sinwar and made clear: in the future you will have to explain why you did everything to give today's Nazis a state of terror. Watch and retweet &gt;&gt; <a href="https://t.co/LDLO6PUvQ6">pic.twitter.com/LDLO6PUvQ6</a>
— Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/giladerdan1/status/1789003461901586861?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Israel's Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, echoed Erdan’s sentiments, denouncing the resolution as an "absurd decision" that underlines the UN's "structural bias."&nbsp;

He argued that "the message that the UN is sending to our suffering region: violence pays off."

"The decision to upgrade the status of Palestinians in the UN is a prize for Hamas terrorists after they committed the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust."

On the other side, Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour welcomed the resolution as a significant step forward for Palestine's international recognition and stated that the Palestinian Authority would pursue full membership through the Security Council. However, this move is likely to face a US veto, mirroring a similar veto in April that blocked a resolution from advancing.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a dramatic display of outrage, Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan shredded a copy of the UN Charter during the United Nations General Assembly session in New York on Friday (May 10).

In a dramatic display of outrage, Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan shredded a copy of the UN Charter during the United Nations General Assembly session in New York on Friday (May 10). This happened as a resolution supporting full UN membership for Palestine was overwhelmingly passed during the session. Resolution for Palestine's membership The UNGA in an overwhelming vote passed a resolution asking the Security Council to make Palestine, which has UN observer status, a full member. The resolution, which was proposed by the United Arab Emirates, received the backing of 143 nations, including India. While 25 countries abstained, nine, including the United States and Israel, opposed it. Also read | UN General Assembly votes for granting Palestine new rights, member status This vote grants Palestine, currently an observer state, a stronger push towards full membership, a status that must ultimately be approved by the Security Council. A 'clear violation' Ambassador Erdan vehemently criticised the resolution, branding it a "clear violation" of the UN Charter and accusing the General Assembly of bypassing a US veto that was cast in the Security Council the previous month. "This day will go down in infamy," Erdan declared during his impassioned speech. "I want the entire world to remember this moment, this immoral act...today I want to hold up a mirror for you, so you can see what exactly you are inflicting upon the UN Charter with this destructive vote. You are shredding the UN Charter with your own hands," he told the assembly members as he held up a miniature shredder and shredded a copy of the UN charter. Watch video here: Today, I demonstrated to the General Assembly what they are doing to the UN Charter by ignoring it and shredded it on the stage. I told the ambassadors that today will go down in infamy and I want the world to remember when they shredded the UN Charter to advance a Nazi regime… pic.twitter.com/NulOtHsAdK — Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) May 10, 2024 × Erdan escalated his rhetoric by saying that the resolution opens up the UN to "modern day Nazis," a reference to Hamas. Calling Hamas leader, Yahya Sinwar, "the Hitler of our times," he said, "Today, you are also about to grant privileges and rights to the future terror state of Hamas. You have opened up the United Nations for modern day Nazis, to the Hitler of our times." Also read | Gaza war: Israel's use of US-supplied weapons may have violated international law, says Washington Holding up an image of Sinwar, Erdan further added, "I present to you the future outcome of today's vote...the soon-to-be President, Yahya Sinwar, President tyrant of the State of Hamas, sponsored by the UN, and he owes his deepest gratitude to you, the General Assembly." This is the future president of the terrorist state that the UN is promoting‼️ I showed the ambassadors the picture of Yahya Sinwar and made clear: in the future you will have to explain why you did everything to give today's Nazis a state of terror. Watch and retweet >> pic.twitter.com/LDLO6PUvQ6 — Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) May 10, 2024 × Israel's Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, echoed Erdan’s sentiments, denouncing the resolution as an "absurd decision" that underlines the UN's "structural bias." He argued that "the message that the UN is sending to our suffering region: violence pays off." "The decision to upgrade the status of Palestinians in the UN is a prize for Hamas terrorists after they committed the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust." On the other side, Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour welcomed the resolution as a significant step forward for Palestine's international recognition and stated that the Palestinian Authority would pursue full membership through the Security Council. However, this move is likely to face a US veto, mirroring a similar veto in April that blocked a resolution from advancing. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli envoy dramatically shreds UN charter in protest of Palestine membership resolution. Watch!

Hezbollah vs Israeli forces

Just a day after US President Joe Biden issued his starkest warning yet against a full ground invasion in Rafah, Israel on Thursday (May 9) bombarded areas of the populous city.

This comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed Biden's threat to withhold weapons from his country if it assaults the Southern Gaza City.

<h2>Israel to proceed with its operation in Gaza</h2>

Late on Thursday, a senior Israeli official, as per Reuters, stated that indirect negotiations in Cairo aimed at ceasing hostilities had concluded without a ceasefire agreement. The country will now continue its military operations in Rafah and other areas, as per plan, he said.&nbsp;

Israel has communicated its reservations regarding Hamas's proposed terms for a hostage release, said the official.

In a video statement, Netanyahu emphasised Israel's resolve, stating, "If we need to ... we will stand alone. If we must, we shall fight with our fingernails."

"But we have much more than our fingernails," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-war-netanyahu-says-israel-ready-to-stand-alone-and-will-fight-with-fingernails-719873">Hamas war: Netanyahu says Israel ready to 'stand alone' and 'will fight with fingernails'</a>

The situation in Rafah worsened as Israeli forces launched attacks. In one airstrike on two homes in the Sabra neighbourhood, at least 12 people, including women and children, were killed.&nbsp;

Reuters reports that this includes a senior commander from the Al-Mujahedeen Brigades and his family. As per the group, the family of another group leader, medics, and relatives were also killed in the strike.

Another attack near a mosque killed at least three people and wounded several others.

Palestinian militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad said their fighters responded by targeting Israeli tanks with anti-tank rockets and mortars on the eastern outskirts of the city.&nbsp;

Rafah is the biggest urban area in Gaza, not yet overrun by Israeli forces. Due to this, it has become the refuge for displaced Gazans from other bombarded areas with its population swelling to hundreds of thousands.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-hamas-and-israel-teams-leave-egypt-amid-ongoing-mediation-efforts-719808">Gaza war: Hamas and Israel teams leave Egypt amid 'ongoing' mediation efforts</a>

<h2>In the US</h2>

The White House reiterated its position that a full-scale military operation in Rafah would not help Israel achieve its strategic goals.

US spokesperson John Kirby emphasised the significant pressure already on Hamas and suggested other strategies to target the group's leadership that would pose less risk to civilians.

"Smashing into Rafah, in [President Biden's] view, will not advance," Israel's aim of defeating the Hamas, he said.

The conflict has already caused substantial casualties, with Gaza's health ministry reporting nearly 35,000 deaths and around 80,000 injuries, mostly among civilians.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Just a day after US President Joe Biden issued his starkest warning yet against a full ground invasion in Rafah, Israel on Thursday (May 9) bombarded areas of the populous city.

Just a day after US President Joe Biden issued his starkest warning yet against a full ground invasion in Rafah, Israel on Thursday (May 9) bombarded areas of the populous city. This comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed Biden's threat to withhold weapons from his country if it assaults the Southern Gaza City. Israel to proceed with its operation in Gaza Late on Thursday, a senior Israeli official, as per Reuters, stated that indirect negotiations in Cairo aimed at ceasing hostilities had concluded without a ceasefire agreement. The country will now continue its military operations in Rafah and other areas, as per plan, he said. Israel has communicated its reservations regarding Hamas's proposed terms for a hostage release, said the official. In a video statement, Netanyahu emphasised Israel's resolve, stating, "If we need to ... we will stand alone. If we must, we shall fight with our fingernails." "But we have much more than our fingernails," he added. Also read | Hamas war: Netanyahu says Israel ready to 'stand alone' and 'will fight with fingernails' The situation in Rafah worsened as Israeli forces launched attacks. In one airstrike on two homes in the Sabra neighbourhood, at least 12 people, including women and children, were killed. Reuters reports that this includes a senior commander from the Al-Mujahedeen Brigades and his family. As per the group, the family of another group leader, medics, and relatives were also killed in the strike. Another attack near a mosque killed at least three people and wounded several others. Palestinian militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad said their fighters responded by targeting Israeli tanks with anti-tank rockets and mortars on the eastern outskirts of the city. Rafah is the biggest urban area in Gaza, not yet overrun by Israeli forces. Due to this, it has become the refuge for displaced Gazans from other bombarded areas with its population swelling to hundreds of thousands. Also read | Gaza war: Hamas and Israel teams leave Egypt amid 'ongoing' mediation efforts In the US The White House reiterated its position that a full-scale military operation in Rafah would not help Israel achieve its strategic goals. US spokesperson John Kirby emphasised the significant pressure already on Hamas and suggested other strategies to target the group's leadership that would pose less risk to civilians. "Smashing into Rafah, in [President Biden's] view, will not advance," Israel's aim of defeating the Hamas, he said. The conflict has already caused substantial casualties, with Gaza's health ministry reporting nearly 35,000 deaths and around 80,000 injuries, mostly among civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

Despite Biden's warning, Israel continues its invasion of Rafah, kills over 15 in airstrikes

Hezbollah group and Israel forces have been trading fire since the beginning of the Gaza war. However, in the recent weeks, both sides have stepped out their fire game. Lebanon has accepted the World Criminal Court's jurisdiction for war crimes committed on its soil. Students in Lebanon are staging protests to call for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Escalation at Lebanese border

Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Wednesday (May 1) promised he would break his nation's diplomatic&nbsp;relations with Israel over the warring nation's actions in Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>A 'genocidal' leader</h2>

Petro told a May Day rally in Bogotá, "Here in front of you, the government of change, of the president of the republic announces that tomorrow we will break diplomatic relations with the state of Israel… for having a government, for having a president who is genocidal."

As per the Times of Israel, it is unclear if he used the word "genocidal" to refer to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or President Isaac Herzog, who serves a largely symbolic role.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-violation-of-the-cwc-us-accuses-russia-of-using-chemical-weapons-against-ukraine-717173">US accuses Russia of using chemical weapons against Ukraine, links violation to Alexei Navalny poisoning</a>

Petro, addressing thousands of supporters, stressed that the world cannot accept "genocide, the extermination of an entire people."

"If Palestine dies, humanity dies," he declared, earning loud applause from the crowd.

Petro, a leftist leader, has been heavily critical of Netanyahu, reports Reuters. He has even requested to join South Africa's case, accusing Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice.

<h2>Israel slams Colombian President Petro</h2>

Hitting back at Petro, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that the leftist leader was "hate-filled, antisemitic."

Taking to X, Katz posted, "History will remember that Gustavo Petro decided to side with the most despicable monsters known to humanity who burned babies, murdered children, raped women and kidnapped innocent civilians."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blasts-biden-says-every-single-thing-he-touches-turns-to-sh-pledges-world-peace-717177">Trump blasts Biden, says 'every single thing he touches turns to sh**,' pledges world peace</a>

"Relations between Israel and Colombia have always been warm—and no hate-filled, anti-Semitic president can change that. The State of Israel will continue to protect its citizens fearlessly and fearlessly," he added.

Hamas, on the other hand, hailed Colombia's move as a "victory."

"We greatly appreciate the position of Colombian President Gustavo Petro... which we consider a victory for the sacrifices of our people and their just cause," said the group in a statement. According to AFP, the militant group also urged other Latin American countries to follow suit.

Previously, Bolivia, Belize, and South Africa broke their relations with Israel. Several other countries in Latin America, including Colombia, Chile and Honduras, have recalled their diplomats.

(With inputs from agencies)

Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Wednesday (May 1) promised he would break his nation's diplomatic relations with Israel over the warring nation's actions in Gaza.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Wednesday (May 1) promised he would break his nation's diplomatic relations with Israel over the warring nation's actions in Gaza. A 'genocidal' leader Petro told a May Day rally in Bogotá, "Here in front of you, the government of change, of the president of the republic announces that tomorrow we will break diplomatic relations with the state of Israel… for having a government, for having a president who is genocidal." As per the Times of Israel, it is unclear if he used the word "genocidal" to refer to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or President Isaac Herzog, who serves a largely symbolic role. Also read | US accuses Russia of using chemical weapons against Ukraine, links violation to Alexei Navalny poisoning Petro, addressing thousands of supporters, stressed that the world cannot accept "genocide, the extermination of an entire people." "If Palestine dies, humanity dies," he declared, earning loud applause from the crowd. Petro, a leftist leader, has been heavily critical of Netanyahu, reports Reuters. He has even requested to join South Africa's case, accusing Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice. Israel slams Colombian President Petro Hitting back at Petro, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that the leftist leader was "hate-filled, antisemitic." Taking to X, Katz posted, "History will remember that Gustavo Petro decided to side with the most despicable monsters known to humanity who burned babies, murdered children, raped women and kidnapped innocent civilians." Also read | Trump blasts Biden, says 'every single thing he touches turns to sh**,' pledges world peace "Relations between Israel and Colombia have always been warm—and no hate-filled, anti-Semitic president can change that. The State of Israel will continue to protect its citizens fearlessly and fearlessly," he added. Hamas, on the other hand, hailed Colombia's move as a "victory." "We greatly appreciate the position of Colombian President Gustavo Petro... which we consider a victory for the sacrifices of our people and their just cause," said the group in a statement. According to AFP, the militant group also urged other Latin American countries to follow suit. Previously, Bolivia, Belize, and South Africa broke their relations with Israel. Several other countries in Latin America, including Colombia, Chile and Honduras, have recalled their diplomats. (With inputs from agencies)

Bogota severs diplomatic ties with Israel over 'genocidal' Gaza campaign; Israel dubs move 'antisemitic'

Hamas is not the only warfront Israel faces the Hezbollah offensive on Israel from Lebanon that has gone on for months as at its most intense phase yet Lebanon Iran backed group Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets at Northern Israel overnight. Watch in for more details!

Lebanon's Hezbollah fires drones, guided missiles at North Israel

The Israeli army intensified its strikes across Gaza on Tuesday (April 23) as it carried out some of the heaviest shelling in weeks. Meanwhile, fresh evacuations were ordered by the army in the north of the enclave, as it warned civilians that they were in a "dangerous combat zone".

The Israeli army intensified its strikes across Gaza on Tuesday (April 23) as it carried out some of the heaviest shelling in weeks. Meanwhile, fresh evacuations were ordered by the army in the north of the enclave, as it warned civilians that they were in a "dangerous combat zone". The residents in central and southern areas of the Gaza Strip also reported strikes by air and shelling from tanks on the ground late on Tuesday (April 23). Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee, in a post on social media platform X, appealed to the residents of four zones in Beit Lahiya, located on the northern edge of Gaza, to shift to two designated areas. He stated that the military "will work with extreme force against terrorist infrastructure and subversive elements" in the region. In a statement, which was issued later on Tuesday (April 23), the military said it "follows international law and takes feasible precautions to mitigate civilian harm." Also Read: Satellite photos show extent of damage in Iran during alleged Israeli attack Israel renewed its bombing and shelling of northern Gaza almost four months after its army announced that it was moving down troops there and claimed that Hamas no longer controlled those areas. Israel this month also drew down most of its forces in southern Gaza. The bombardment took place on Tuesday after alerts were sounded regarding incoming rockets in two southern Israeli border towns, even though no casualties were reported. The responsibility for the attacks on Sderot and Nir Am was claimed by the armed wing of Islamic Jihad, which is a group allied to Hamas. Hezbollah launches 'dozens' of rockets at Israel Iran-backed Hezbollah group fired dozens of rockets at northern Israel on Tuesday (April 23) while responding to the killing of two civilians in Lebanon's south in a strike which was blamed on Israel. Israel has been exchanging regular fire with the Iran-backed Hezbollah group in the south of Lebanon since October. Hezbollah fighters fired "dozens of Katyusha rockets" at northern Israel "as part of the response to the Israeli enemy's attacks on... civilian homes, specifically the horrific massacre in Hanin and the killing and injuring of civilians," said the group in a statement. The local officials and rescuers stated that two members of the same family were killed in an Israeli strike on a house in Hanin, close to the Israeli border. Watch: Israel war: 200 days of perpetual attacks reduce Gaza to wastelands Speaking to AFP, a civil defence source said that "a woman in her 50s and a 12-year-old girl have been killed" in the strike, while many others were injured and admitted to the hospital. The deaths were confirmed by Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA) which stated that six others were wounded in the strike. "Enemy warplanes carried out a raid on a two-storey house, firing two air-to-surface missiles and completely destroying it," stated the NNA, further reporting that the building housed "a family that had not left... since Israeli attacks started". (With inputs from agencies)

Israel intensifies strikes across Gaza amid new evacuation orders in North

Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said on Wednesday (Apr 24) that the forces are carrying out "offensive action" across southern Lebanon. In a video statement, Gallant said, "Many forces are deployed on the border and IDF (army) forces are carrying out offensive action currently throughout southern Lebanon."&nbsp;

The defence minister also claimed that "half of Hezbollah's commanders in southern Lebanon have been eliminated" in months of violence and further said the "other half are in hiding and abandoning the field to IDF operations".&nbsp;

He didn't reveal exact numbers and also didn't specify whether or not ground troops had crossed the border.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-attack-on-iran-territory-would-mean-the-end-of-zionist-regime-iranian-president-ebrahim-raisi-714474">Israeli attack on Iran territory would mean end of 'Zionist regime': Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi</a>&nbsp;

Separately, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said in a post on social media platform X that 40 Hezbollah "terrorist" targets were struck, including storage facilities, weaponry and additional terror infrastructures used by the militant group in the region. As per reports, the targets linked to Hezbollah fighters around Ayta ash Shab.&nbsp;

The army distributed a video which showed various explosions said to be part of that attack. WION can not independently verify the details of the video.&nbsp;

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📍Southern Lebanon: 
40 Hezbollah terrorist targets were struck a short while ago, including storage facilities, weaponry and additional terror infrastructures used by the Hezbollah terrorist organization in the area.
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1783116456063869223?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Lebanon's state-run National News Agency said Israel had carried out more than 13 strikes near Aita al-Shaab and surrounding villages.&nbsp;

"Israeli warplanes carried out ... more than 13 airstrikes targeting the outskirts of the towns of Aita al-Shaab, Ramya, Jabal Balat and Khallet Warda," it said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-bodies-with-hands-tied-recovered-from-mass-graves-in-gaza-714301">Bodies ‘with hands tied’ recovered from mass graves in Gaza</a>&nbsp;

Lebanon's Hezbollah earlier in the day said that it fired dozens of rockets at an Israeli border town and sources in Lebanon reported heavy Israeli airstrikes on a Lebanese town just across the frontier.&nbsp;

The group had already fired rockets at northern Israel late on Tuesday "in response" to the civilian deaths.

This comes amid an escalating situation in the region amid an increase in cross-border strikes in recent days. The strikes were triggered since Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel which led to war in Gaza.&nbsp;

At least 380 people have been killed in Lebanon since October 7, mostly Hezbollah fighters but also 72 civilians, according to a tally by news agency AFP. On the other hand, Israel claims that 11 soldiers and eight civilians have been killed on its side of the border.&nbsp;

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.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said on Wednesday (Apr 24) that the forces are carrying out "offensive action" across southern Lebanon. In a video statement, Gallant said, "Many forces are deployed on the border and IDF (army) forces are carrying out offensive action currently throughout southern Lebanon.

Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said on Wednesday (Apr 24) that the forces are carrying out "offensive action" across southern Lebanon. In a video statement, Gallant said, "Many forces are deployed on the border and IDF (army) forces are carrying out offensive action currently throughout southern Lebanon." The defence minister also claimed that "half of Hezbollah's commanders in southern Lebanon have been eliminated" in months of violence and further said the "other half are in hiding and abandoning the field to IDF operations". He didn't reveal exact numbers and also didn't specify whether or not ground troops had crossed the border. Also read: Israeli attack on Iran territory would mean end of 'Zionist regime': Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi Separately, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said in a post on social media platform X that 40 Hezbollah "terrorist" targets were struck, including storage facilities, weaponry and additional terror infrastructures used by the militant group in the region. As per reports, the targets linked to Hezbollah fighters around Ayta ash Shab. The army distributed a video which showed various explosions said to be part of that attack. WION can not independently verify the details of the video. 📍Southern Lebanon: 40 Hezbollah terrorist targets were struck a short while ago, including storage facilities, weaponry and additional terror infrastructures used by the Hezbollah terrorist organization in the area. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) April 24, 2024 × Meanwhile, Lebanon's state-run National News Agency said Israel had carried out more than 13 strikes near Aita al-Shaab and surrounding villages. "Israeli warplanes carried out ... more than 13 airstrikes targeting the outskirts of the towns of Aita al-Shaab, Ramya, Jabal Balat and Khallet Warda," it said. Also read: Bodies ‘with hands tied’ recovered from mass graves in Gaza Lebanon's Hezbollah earlier in the day said that it fired dozens of rockets at an Israeli border town and sources in Lebanon reported heavy Israeli airstrikes on a Lebanese town just across the frontier. The group had already fired rockets at northern Israel late on Tuesday "in response" to the civilian deaths. This comes amid an escalating situation in the region amid an increase in cross-border strikes in recent days. The strikes were triggered since Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel which led to war in Gaza. At least 380 people have been killed in Lebanon since October 7, mostly Hezbollah fighters but also 72 civilians, according to a tally by news agency AFP. On the other hand, Israel claims that 11 soldiers and eight civilians have been killed on its side of the border. 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)

Israel carrying out ‘offensive action’ in south Lebanon, claims half of Hezbollah’s commanders ‘eliminated’

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Lebanon: IDF claims killing 2 Hezbollah Commanders - UN urges to reconsider Rwanda plan - Russia drone attack injure 9 - Police crackdown on NYU protesters - Apple falls in China - India orders spice makers to furnish details

Lebanon: IDF claims killing 2 Hezbollah Commanders | Russia drone attack injure 9

Following the economic collapse of 2019, most cities in Lebanon are powered by more than 8,000 diesel generators. And now, an ‘alarming’ study has linked the rising air pollution in the cities to the increasing cancer rates among the general population. Owing to the massive pollution, it has become commonplace for Beirut residents to deal with thick clouds of smog, always hanging over the skyline.

The research, conducted by scientists at the American University of Beirut (AUB), found that the risk of developing cancer in the capital city has increased by two times over the past five years. “The results are alarming,” says Najat Saliba, an atmospheric chemist who led the study.

<h2>Level of pollution</h2>

According to the data collected by the AUB researchers, pollution in Beirut has doubled since 2017. The PM2.5 level generally hovers around 60 micrograms a cubic metre, four times what the World Health Organization recommends for healthy breathing.

<h2>Risk of developing cancer</h2>

The researchers add that the relation between the increasing pollution and cancer rates is quite obvious.

“We calculate the cancer risk based on the carcinogen materials emitted from diesel generators, some of which are classified as category 1A carcinogens,” said Najat.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi95sGFitaFAxW71jgGHVvCBCIQvOMEKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-jets-hit-hezbollah-targets-in-southern-lebanon-overnight-713558" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-jets-hit-hezbollah-targets-in-southern-lebanon-overnight-713558&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi95sGFitaFAxW71jgGHVvCBCIQvOMEKAB6BAgKEAE">IDF jets hit Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon overnight, kill operatives</a>

As per estimates, cancer rates in the city have been rising 30 per cent annually since 2020, with patients getting younger and more aggressive.

<h2>The money problem</h2>

Hani Nassar, who runs a cancer support organisation in the country, says money is also a major problem for cancer patients. The $6,000/month medication for a society where most individuals earn $150 is a back-breaking affair.

“We have a lot of cancer patients who have not even begun any treatment,” says Hani. “They just end up saying, ‘OK, I will die – I don’t want to deprive my family of our house, our car, etc., just to pay for this’,” he adds.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjI77_3idaFAxVX1TgGHT24ApEQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-threatens-hezbollah-says-will-turn-beirut-into-gaza-if-667470" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-threatens-hezbollah-says-will-turn-beirut-into-gaza-if-667470&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjI77_3idaFAxVX1TgGHT24ApEQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Israeli PM Netanyahu threatens Hezbollah, says `will turn Beirut into Gaza if...`</a>

A 2023 Human Rights Watch report said that the government of Lebanon has failed to implement reforms in the electricity sector and adopted policies that increased the nation’s reliance on oil.

“Diesel importers exert great influence, primarily because of the overlap between the shareholders of these companies and the political establishment,” the report highlighted.

(With inputs from agencies)

Following the economic collapse of 2019, most cities in Lebanon are powered by more than 8,000 diesel generators. And now, an ‘alarming’ study has linked the rising air pollution in the cities to the increasing cancer rates among the general population.

Following the economic collapse of 2019, most cities in Lebanon are powered by more than 8,000 diesel generators. And now, an ‘alarming’ study has linked the rising air pollution in the cities to the increasing cancer rates among the general population. Owing to the massive pollution, it has become commonplace for Beirut residents to deal with thick clouds of smog, always hanging over the skyline. The research, conducted by scientists at the American University of Beirut (AUB), found that the risk of developing cancer in the capital city has increased by two times over the past five years. “The results are alarming,” says Najat Saliba, an atmospheric chemist who led the study. Level of pollution According to the data collected by the AUB researchers, pollution in Beirut has doubled since 2017. The PM2.5 level generally hovers around 60 micrograms a cubic metre, four times what the World Health Organization recommends for healthy breathing. Risk of developing cancer The researchers add that the relation between the increasing pollution and cancer rates is quite obvious. “We calculate the cancer risk based on the carcinogen materials emitted from diesel generators, some of which are classified as category 1A carcinogens,” said Najat. Also read: IDF jets hit Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon overnight, kill operatives As per estimates, cancer rates in the city have been rising 30 per cent annually since 2020, with patients getting younger and more aggressive. The money problem Hani Nassar, who runs a cancer support organisation in the country, says money is also a major problem for cancer patients. The $6,000/month medication for a society where most individuals earn $150 is a back-breaking affair. “We have a lot of cancer patients who have not even begun any treatment,” says Hani. “They just end up saying, ‘OK, I will die – I don’t want to deprive my family of our house, our car, etc., just to pay for this’,” he adds. Also read: Israeli PM Netanyahu threatens Hezbollah, says `will turn Beirut into Gaza if...` A 2023 Human Rights Watch report said that the government of Lebanon has failed to implement reforms in the electricity sector and adopted policies that increased the nation’s reliance on oil. “Diesel importers exert great influence, primarily because of the overlap between the shareholders of these companies and the political establishment,” the report highlighted. (With inputs from agencies)

Beirut turns into cancer hotspot as Lebanon fails to curb use of diesel generators

Terry Anderson, a US&nbsp;journalist who was held captive by Islamist militants for almost seven years in Lebanon and came to symbolise the plight of Western hostages during the country's 1975-1990 civil war, died on Sunday at age 76, his daughter said in a statement.

The former chief Middle East correspondent for The Associated Press, who was the longest held hostage of the scores of Westerners abducted in Lebanon, died at his home in Greenwood Lake, New York, said his daughter Sulome Anderson, who was born three months after he was seized. No cause of death was given.

Kept in barely-lit cells by mostly Shi'ite Muslim groups in what was known as The Hostage Crisis, and chained by his hands and feet and blindfolded much of the time, the former Marine later recalled that he "almost went insane" and that only his Roman Catholic faith prevented him from taking his life before he was freed in December 1991.

"Though my father's life was marked by extreme suffering during his time as a hostage in captivity, he found a quiet, comfortable peace in recent years. I know he would choose to be remembered not by his very worst experience, but through his humanitarian work with the Vietnam Children's Fund, the Committee to Protect Journalists, homeless veterans and many other incredible causes," Sulome Anderson said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vetoes-palestinian-request-for-full-statehood-at-united-nations-712748">US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations</a>

The family will take some time to organise a memorial, she said.

Anderson's ordeal began in Beirut on the morning of March 16, 1985, after he played a round of tennis. A green Mercedes sedan with curtains over the rear window pulled up, three gunmen jumped out and dragged Anderson, still dressed in shorts, into the car.

The pro-Iran Islamic Jihad group claimed responsibility for the kidnapping, saying it was part of "continuing operations against Americans." The abductors demanded freedom for Shi'ite Muslims jailed in Kuwait for bomb attacks against the U.S. and French embassies there.

It was the start of a nightmare for Anderson that would last six years and nine months during which he was stuck in cells under the rubble-strewn streets of Beirut and elsewhere, often badly fed and sleeping on a thin, dirty mattress on a concrete floor.

During captivity, both his father and brother would die of cancer and he would not see his daughter Sulome until she was six years old.

"What kept me going?" he asked aloud shortly after release. "My companions. I was lucky to have people with me most of the time. My faith, stubbornness. You do what you have to. You wake up every day, summon up the energy from somewhere. You think you haven't got it and you get through the day and you do it. Day after day after day."

Other hostages described Anderson as tough and active in captivity, learning French and Arabic and exercising regularly.

However, they also told of him banging his head against a wall until he bled in frustration at beatings, isolation, false hopes and the feeling of being neglected by the outside world.

"There is a limit of how long we can last and some of us are approaching the limit very badly," Anderson said in a videotape released by his captors in December 1987.

Marcel Fontaine, a French diplomat who was released in May 1988 after three years of captivity, recalled the time cell mate Anderson thought freedom was near because he was allowed to see the sun and eat a hamburger.

In April 1987 Anderson was given a suit of clothes that his captors had made for him. "He wore it every day," Fontaine said.

Watch:&nbsp;US to withdraw troops from Niger in West Africa

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-to-withdraw-troops-from-niger-in-west-africa-713357/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A week later, however, Anderson's captors took the suit back, leaving him in despair and certain he was forgotten, Fontaine said.

Scores of journalist groups, governments and individuals over the years called for Anderson's release and his Oct. 27 birthday became an unofficial U.S. memorial day for hostages.

Anderson said he considered killing himself several times but rejected it. He relied heavily on his faith, which he said he had renewed six months before being kidnapped.

"I must have read the Bible 50 times from start to finish," he said. "It was an enormous help to me."

His sister, Peggy Say, who died in 2015, was his fiercest advocate during captivity.

She worked tirelessly for her brother's freedom. She visited Arab and European capitals, lobbied the Pope, the Archbishop of Canterbury and every U.S. official and politician available.

Under pressure from the media and the U.S. hostages' families, the Reagan administration negotiated a secret and illegal deal in the mid-1980s to facilitate arms sales to Iran in return for the release of American hostages. But the deal, known as the Iran–Contra affair, failed to gain freedom for any of the hostages.

Born Oct. 27, 1947, in Lorain, Ohio, Anderson grew up in Batavia, New York. He graduated from Iowa State University and spent six years in the Marine Corps, mostly as a journalist.

He worked for the AP in Detroit, Louisville, New York, Tokyo, Johannesburg and then Beirut, where he first went to cover the Israeli invasion in 1982.

In that war-torn city, he fell in love with Lebanese woman Madeleine Bassil, who was his fiance and pregnant with their daughter Sulome when he was snatched.

He is survived by his daughters Sulome and Gabrielle, his sister Judy and brother Jack, and by Bassil, whom Sulome Anderson called "his ex-wife and best friend."

Anderson and fellow hostages developed a system of communication by tapping on walls between their cells. Always the journalist, Anderson passed on news of the outside world he had picked up during captivity to Church of England envoy Terry Waite, being held hostage in an adjacent room in September 1990 after years of solitary confinement.

"Then the world news: the Berlin Wall's falling, communism's demise in eastern Europe, free elections in the Soviet Union, work toward multiracial government in South Africa. All the incredible things that have happened since he was taken nearly three years ago. He thought I was crazy," Anderson wrote in his 1993 book "Den of Lions."

After his release, Anderson taught journalism at Columbia University in New York, Ohio University, the University of Kentucky and the University of Florida until he retired in 2015.

Among businesses he invested in were a horse ranch in Ohio, and a restaurant. He unsuccessfully ran for the Ohio state Senate as a Democrat in 2004 and sued Iran in federal court for his abduction, winning a multimillion-dollar settlement in 2002.

Terry Anderson, a US journalist who was held captive by Islamist militants for almost seven years in Lebanon and came to symbolise the plight of Western hostages during the country's 1975-1990 civil war, died on Sunday at age 76, his daughter said in a statement.

Terry Anderson, a US journalist who was held captive by Islamist militants for almost seven years in Lebanon and came to symbolise the plight of Western hostages during the country's 1975-1990 civil war, died on Sunday at age 76, his daughter said in a statement. The former chief Middle East correspondent for The Associated Press, who was the longest held hostage of the scores of Westerners abducted in Lebanon, died at his home in Greenwood Lake, New York, said his daughter Sulome Anderson, who was born three months after he was seized. No cause of death was given. Kept in barely-lit cells by mostly Shi'ite Muslim groups in what was known as The Hostage Crisis, and chained by his hands and feet and blindfolded much of the time, the former Marine later recalled that he "almost went insane" and that only his Roman Catholic faith prevented him from taking his life before he was freed in December 1991. "Though my father's life was marked by extreme suffering during his time as a hostage in captivity, he found a quiet, comfortable peace in recent years. I know he would choose to be remembered not by his very worst experience, but through his humanitarian work with the Vietnam Children's Fund, the Committee to Protect Journalists, homeless veterans and many other incredible causes," Sulome Anderson said. Also Read: US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations The family will take some time to organise a memorial, she said. Anderson's ordeal began in Beirut on the morning of March 16, 1985, after he played a round of tennis. A green Mercedes sedan with curtains over the rear window pulled up, three gunmen jumped out and dragged Anderson, still dressed in shorts, into the car. The pro-Iran Islamic Jihad group claimed responsibility for the kidnapping, saying it was part of "continuing operations against Americans." The abductors demanded freedom for Shi'ite Muslims jailed in Kuwait for bomb attacks against the U.S. and French embassies there. It was the start of a nightmare for Anderson that would last six years and nine months during which he was stuck in cells under the rubble-strewn streets of Beirut and elsewhere, often badly fed and sleeping on a thin, dirty mattress on a concrete floor. During captivity, both his father and brother would die of cancer and he would not see his daughter Sulome until she was six years old. "What kept me going?" he asked aloud shortly after release. "My companions. I was lucky to have people with me most of the time. My faith, stubbornness. You do what you have to. You wake up every day, summon up the energy from somewhere. You think you haven't got it and you get through the day and you do it. Day after day after day." Other hostages described Anderson as tough and active in captivity, learning French and Arabic and exercising regularly. However, they also told of him banging his head against a wall until he bled in frustration at beatings, isolation, false hopes and the feeling of being neglected by the outside world. "There is a limit of how long we can last and some of us are approaching the limit very badly," Anderson said in a videotape released by his captors in December 1987. Marcel Fontaine, a French diplomat who was released in May 1988 after three years of captivity, recalled the time cell mate Anderson thought freedom was near because he was allowed to see the sun and eat a hamburger. In April 1987 Anderson was given a suit of clothes that his captors had made for him. "He wore it every day," Fontaine said. Watch: US to withdraw troops from Niger in West Africa A week later, however, Anderson's captors took the suit back, leaving him in despair and certain he was forgotten, Fontaine said. Scores of journalist groups, governments and individuals over the years called for Anderson's release and his Oct. 27 birthday became an unofficial U.S. memorial day for hostages. Anderson said he considered killing himself several times but rejected it. He relied heavily on his faith, which he said he had renewed six months before being kidnapped. "I must have read the Bible 50 times from start to finish," he said. "It was an enormous help to me." His sister, Peggy Say, who died in 2015, was his fiercest advocate during captivity. She worked tirelessly for her brother's freedom. She visited Arab and European capitals, lobbied the Pope, the Archbishop of Canterbury and every U.S. official and politician available. Under pressure from the media and the U.S. hostages' families, the Reagan administration negotiated a secret and illegal deal in the mid-1980s to facilitate arms sales to Iran in return for the release of American hostages. But the deal, known as the Iran–Contra affair, failed to gain freedom for any of the hostages. Born Oct. 27, 1947, in Lorain, Ohio, Anderson grew up in Batavia, New York. He graduated from Iowa State University and spent six years in the Marine Corps, mostly as a journalist. He worked for the AP in Detroit, Louisville, New York, Tokyo, Johannesburg and then Beirut, where he first went to cover the Israeli invasion in 1982. In that war-torn city, he fell in love with Lebanese woman Madeleine Bassil, who was his fiance and pregnant with their daughter Sulome when he was snatched. He is survived by his daughters Sulome and Gabrielle, his sister Judy and brother Jack, and by Bassil, whom Sulome Anderson called "his ex-wife and best friend." Anderson and fellow hostages developed a system of communication by tapping on walls between their cells. Always the journalist, Anderson passed on news of the outside world he had picked up during captivity to Church of England envoy Terry Waite, being held hostage in an adjacent room in September 1990 after years of solitary confinement. "Then the world news: the Berlin Wall's falling, communism's demise in eastern Europe, free elections in the Soviet Union, work toward multiracial government in South Africa. All the incredible things that have happened since he was taken nearly three years ago. He thought I was crazy," Anderson wrote in his 1993 book "Den of Lions." After his release, Anderson taught journalism at Columbia University in New York, Ohio University, the University of Kentucky and the University of Florida until he retired in 2015. Among businesses he invested in were a horse ranch in Ohio, and a restaurant. He unsuccessfully ran for the Ohio state Senate as a Democrat in 2004 and sued Iran in federal court for his abduction, winning a multimillion-dollar settlement in 2002.

Terry Anderson, US journalist held hostage nearly 7 years in Lebanon, dead at 76

Israeli fighter jets struck several Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon in overnight strikes on Saturday (April 20) into Sunday (April 21), Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said.&nbsp;

The IDF said one of the strikes targeted a Hezbollah operative at one of the group's sites in Tayr Harfa.&nbsp;

Separate strikes hit a Hezbollah observation post in Odaisseh and buildings used by the terror group in Khiam, the army added.

Earlier on Saturday (April 20), amid continued border skirmishes, at least three members of the Hezbollah terror group were killed in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-targets-hezbollah-training-camp-in-lebanon-near-syria-border-report-708520">Israel targets Hezbollah training camp in Lebanon near Syria border: Report</a>

The Israel Defense Forces said that they&nbsp;had carried out strikes on Hezbollah operatives in Ayta ash-Shab and Kfar Kila in the morning hours, after they were spotted entering sites belonging to the terror group.

Later in the day, the IDF said they spotted several more Hezbollah operatives at one of the group’s sites in Jebbayn before fighter jets struck the building. Hezbollah announced that three of its members were killed in the strike in Jebbayn.

Their deaths brought the terror group’s toll amid the war in Gaza to 285.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel war: IDF strikes south Lebanon, kills Hezbollah commander

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Since October 8, Hezbollah has attacked Israeli communities and military posts along the border on a daily basis with rockets, drones and anti-tank missiles in purported solidarity with the Hamas terrorists&nbsp;and Palestinians in Gaza.

Israel has threatened to go to war to push Hezbollah away from the border if it does not retreat and continues to threaten northern Israel from where some 70,000 people were evacuated to avoid the fighting.

Hezbollah's entry in the conflict has resulted in eight civilian deaths on the Israeli side as well as the deaths of 10 IDF soldiers.&nbsp;

Hezbollah has named 285 members who have been killed by Israel during the ongoing skirmishes, mostly in Lebanon, but some also in Syria. In Lebanon, another 54 operatives from other terror groups, a Lebanese soldier, and at least 60 civilians have been killed. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli fighter jets struck several Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon in overnight strikes on Saturday (April 20) into Sunday (April 21), Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said.

Israeli fighter jets struck several Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon in overnight strikes on Saturday (April 20) into Sunday (April 21), Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said. The IDF said one of the strikes targeted a Hezbollah operative at one of the group's sites in Tayr Harfa. Separate strikes hit a Hezbollah observation post in Odaisseh and buildings used by the terror group in Khiam, the army added. Earlier on Saturday (April 20), amid continued border skirmishes, at least three members of the Hezbollah terror group were killed in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon. Also read | Israel targets Hezbollah training camp in Lebanon near Syria border: Report The Israel Defense Forces said that they had carried out strikes on Hezbollah operatives in Ayta ash-Shab and Kfar Kila in the morning hours, after they were spotted entering sites belonging to the terror group. Later in the day, the IDF said they spotted several more Hezbollah operatives at one of the group’s sites in Jebbayn before fighter jets struck the building. Hezbollah announced that three of its members were killed in the strike in Jebbayn. Their deaths brought the terror group’s toll amid the war in Gaza to 285. Also watch | Israel war: IDF strikes south Lebanon, kills Hezbollah commander × Since October 8, Hezbollah has attacked Israeli communities and military posts along the border on a daily basis with rockets, drones and anti-tank missiles in purported solidarity with the Hamas terrorists and Palestinians in Gaza. Israel has threatened to go to war to push Hezbollah away from the border if it does not retreat and continues to threaten northern Israel from where some 70,000 people were evacuated to avoid the fighting. Hezbollah's entry in the conflict has resulted in eight civilian deaths on the Israeli side as well as the deaths of 10 IDF soldiers. Hezbollah has named 285 members who have been killed by Israel during the ongoing skirmishes, mostly in Lebanon, but some also in Syria. In Lebanon, another 54 operatives from other terror groups, a Lebanese soldier, and at least 60 civilians have been killed. (With inputs from agencies)

IDF jets hit Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon overnight, kill operatives

Watch Headlines of the hour: - IDF bombs Hezbollah in Lebanon - Israel war: West Bank on the boil, heat on IDF - 2 Japanese Defence choppers crash - Israel to summon Pro-Palestine envoys - Maldives Elections 2024: Voting underway - US house passes $95 billion aid bill - Kyiv praises, Moscow condemns aid move

IDF bombs Hezbollah in Lebanon | US house passes $95 billion aid bill

The Lebanese militant group Hezbollah claimed responsibility for a cross-border drone and missile attack in northern Israel on Wednesday that the Israeli military said had injured 14 soldiers. Watch in for more details!

Lebanon's Hezbollah targets Israeli base, wounds 14 soldiers

An Israeli airstrike at a refugee camp in central Gaza on Tuesday (Apr 16) claimed the lives of 11 Palestinians, including children.

The airstrike, as per Palestinian health officials and Hamas media, hit the Al-Maghazi refugee camp.

<h2>Horror stories emerge from Al-Maghazi refugee camp</h2>

Crying over the body of her son Mohammad, Wafaa Issa Al-Nouri, whose husband was also killed in the airstrike, said: "My brothers were sitting by the door, my brother was wounded, and his cousin too, and I lost my son, I do not have a house, nor a husband, nor anything anymore".

"He was playing by the door. We didn't do anything. I swear we didn't do anything," she said sobbing.

In another refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, the Al-Nusseirat camp, residents, as per Reuters, said Israeli planes bombed and destroyed four multi-storey residential buildings the same day.

<h2>Rafah trembles in fear</h2>

This comes, as on Tuesday (Apr 16), Israeli tanks pushed into parts of the northern Gaza Strip. Warplanes conducted airstrikes on Rafah, the Palestinians' last refuge in the south of the territory, killing and wounding several people, reports Reuters citing medics and residents.

In Rafah, another Israeli airstrike killed four people and wounded several others, said the health authorities.

Just before midnight, an airstrike on a house in Rafah also claimed the lives of seven people, including children, and wounded many others.

The city which borders Egypt is currently sheltering over half of Gaza's 2.3 million people, who as per reports are bracing for a planned Israeli ground offensive.

<h2>Israel - Hamas peace talks&nbsp;</h2>

Six months into the war between Israel and militant group Hamas, there is still no sign of any breakthrough in the US-backed, Qatar- and Egypt-led talks to clinch a ceasefire deal in Gaza. This is because both Israel and Hamas continue to stick to their mutually irreconcilable conditions.

As per data from the Palestinian health ministry, since the start of the conflict on Oct 7, 2023, more than 33,000 Palestinians, including 46 in the past 24 hours, have been killed by Israeli fire.

&nbsp;

An Israeli airstrike at a refugee camp in central Gaza on Tuesday (Apr 16) claimed the lives of 11 Palestinians, including children. The airstrike, as per Palestinian health officials and Hamas media, hit the Al-Maghazi refugee camp.

An Israeli airstrike at a refugee camp in central Gaza on Tuesday (Apr 16) claimed the lives of 11 Palestinians, including children. The airstrike, as per Palestinian health officials and Hamas media, hit the Al-Maghazi refugee camp. Horror stories emerge from Al-Maghazi refugee camp Crying over the body of her son Mohammad, Wafaa Issa Al-Nouri, whose husband was also killed in the airstrike, said: "My brothers were sitting by the door, my brother was wounded, and his cousin too, and I lost my son, I do not have a house, nor a husband, nor anything anymore". "He was playing by the door. We didn't do anything. I swear we didn't do anything," she said sobbing. In another refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, the Al-Nusseirat camp, residents, as per Reuters, said Israeli planes bombed and destroyed four multi-storey residential buildings the same day. Rafah trembles in fear This comes, as on Tuesday (Apr 16), Israeli tanks pushed into parts of the northern Gaza Strip. Warplanes conducted airstrikes on Rafah, the Palestinians' last refuge in the south of the territory, killing and wounding several people, reports Reuters citing medics and residents. In Rafah, another Israeli airstrike killed four people and wounded several others, said the health authorities. Just before midnight, an airstrike on a house in Rafah also claimed the lives of seven people, including children, and wounded many others. The city which borders Egypt is currently sheltering over half of Gaza's 2.3 million people, who as per reports are bracing for a planned Israeli ground offensive. Israel - Hamas peace talks Six months into the war between Israel and militant group Hamas, there is still no sign of any breakthrough in the US-backed, Qatar- and Egypt-led talks to clinch a ceasefire deal in Gaza. This is because both Israel and Hamas continue to stick to their mutually irreconcilable conditions. As per data from the Palestinian health ministry, since the start of the conflict on Oct 7, 2023, more than 33,000 Palestinians, including 46 in the past 24 hours, have been killed by Israeli fire.

Israel targeting refugee camps? 11, including children, dead in airstrike on Al-Maghazi refugee camp

Amid the escalation of tensions in the West Asian region, several countries have issued an advisory asking people not to travel to Israel, Palestine and Lebanon.

Here's the list of countries that have warned against travel Israel, Iran, Palestine and Lebanon.

<h2>- India</h2>

Indian foreign ministry on Friday (Apr 12) issued an advisory to its people&nbsp;asking them to not travel to Iran or Israel till further notice.

The advisory noted that all those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian embassies there and register themselves.&nbsp;

"They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added.&nbsp;

<h2>- Poland</h2>

Poland's foreign ministry on Friday issued an advisory against travel to Israel, Palestine and Lebanon stating, "It cannot be ruled out that there will be a sudden escalation of military operations, which would cause significant difficulties in leaving these three countries."

"Any escalation may lead to significant restrictions in air traffic and the inability to cross land border crossings," the statement added.

<h2>- France&nbsp;</h2>

The French foreign ministry on Friday released a statement on social media platform X stating that French citizens should avoid travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/iran-backed-hezbollah-fires-dozens-of-missiles-towards-northern-israel-710671">Iran-backed Hezbollah fires dozens of missiles towards Northern Israel</a>

The statement further said that the relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and the French civil servants were barred from conducting missions in Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian Territories.

<h2>- United States</h2>

The US on Thursday said that it had instructed its employees residing in Israel to avoid travelling outside of greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Be'er Sheva areas.

"Out of an abundance of caution, U.S. government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Be'er Sheva areas until further notice," the U.S. embassy said in a security alert on its website on Thursday. "U.S. government personnel are authorized to transit between these three areas for personal travel."

<h2>- Russia&nbsp;</h2>

Russia also issued an advisory against travelling to the Middle East, especially Israel, Lebanon and the Palestinian territories.

"The tense situation in the Middle East region persists," said the foreign ministry.

"The situation in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict zone, as well as in the area of the 'Blue Line' between Lebanon and Israel, remains unstable."

"We strongly recommend that Russian citizens refrain from travelling to the region, especially to Israel, Lebanon and the Palestinian territories, except in cases of extreme necessity," it added.

- Other countries that have warned their citizens against travelling to the Middle East include Norway, Britain, Canada and Australia.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the escalation of tensions in the West Asian region, several countries have issued an advisory asking people not to travel to Israel, Palestine and Lebanon.

Amid the escalation of tensions in the West Asian region, several countries have issued an advisory asking people not to travel to Israel, Palestine and Lebanon. Here's the list of countries that have warned against travel Israel, Iran, Palestine and Lebanon. - India Indian foreign ministry on Friday (Apr 12) issued an advisory to its people asking them to not travel to Iran or Israel till further notice. The advisory noted that all those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian embassies there and register themselves. "They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added. - Poland Poland's foreign ministry on Friday issued an advisory against travel to Israel, Palestine and Lebanon stating, "It cannot be ruled out that there will be a sudden escalation of military operations, which would cause significant difficulties in leaving these three countries." "Any escalation may lead to significant restrictions in air traffic and the inability to cross land border crossings," the statement added. - France The French foreign ministry on Friday released a statement on social media platform X stating that French citizens should avoid travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories. Also read: Iran-backed Hezbollah fires dozens of missiles towards Northern Israel The statement further said that the relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and the French civil servants were barred from conducting missions in Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian Territories. - United States The US on Thursday said that it had instructed its employees residing in Israel to avoid travelling outside of greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Be'er Sheva areas. "Out of an abundance of caution, U.S. government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Be'er Sheva areas until further notice," the U.S. embassy said in a security alert on its website on Thursday. "U.S. government personnel are authorized to transit between these three areas for personal travel." - Russia Russia also issued an advisory against travelling to the Middle East, especially Israel, Lebanon and the Palestinian territories. "The tense situation in the Middle East region persists," said the foreign ministry. "The situation in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict zone, as well as in the area of the 'Blue Line' between Lebanon and Israel, remains unstable." "We strongly recommend that Russian citizens refrain from travelling to the region, especially to Israel, Lebanon and the Palestinian territories, except in cases of extreme necessity," it added. - Other countries that have warned their citizens against travelling to the Middle East include Norway, Britain, Canada and Australia. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East crisis: List of countries that have issued advisory against travel to Israel, Palestine & Iran

U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday (April 12) said he expected Iran to attack Israel "sooner, rather than later," and warned Tehran not to proceed. Asked by reporters about his message to Iran, Biden said simply, "Don't," and he underscored Washington's commitment to defend Israel. Biden said he would not divulge secure information, but said his expectation was that an attack could come "sooner, rather than later."

Israel-Lebanon tensions: Israel launches strikes on Southern Lebanon, Hezbollah hits back

Israel-Hezbollah tensions along the Al-Shabab border have left hundreds of dogs homeless. Their owners, fleeing for their lives - were forced to leave their furry friends, and now a former soldier has taken on a mission to rescue them.

Lebanon: Man sets up shelter for dogs, safe haven amid Hezbollah-Israel clashes

The fighting in Gaza is in its seventh month, it has overshadowed the increasingly tense situation further north. Israeli troops have engaged in daily exchanges of fire with Hezbollah militia fighters across the border in Lebanon. Watch in for more details!

Israel war: Hamas leader Haniyeh repeats ceasefire call after three sons killed in Gaza

Too frightened to travel on dangerous roads that lead to their graveyards in Gaza, Palestinian Christians are lowering their loved ones into the ground in Muslim cemeteries amid the chaos of war between Israel and Hamas.

"I've been working at this cemetery for almost 10 years and this is the first time in my life," said Ihsan al-Natour, a worker at the Tal al-Sultan cemetery, where a man picked up a shrouded body and placed it inside a grave as a small child watched.

"Never have I seen a Christian being buried in a Muslim grave, but because of this war, we had no choice but to bury him here."

Since the war broke out six months ago, Israel bombardments have killed more than 33,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, according to figures from the Gaza health ministry. Some people have lost entire families.

Much of the coastal enclave has been turned into a wasteland, with buildings reduced to rubble and dust. Badly damaged hospitals cannot cope with the casualties, while hunger and possible famine add to the misery.

Travel along roads that could get bombed or shelled only increases the anguish for people trying to bury their dead. Israel has yet to allow residents of northern Gaza, where the Christian cemetery is located, to return home.

Al-Natour said Tal al-Sultan cemetery received the body of a Christian man named Hani Suheil Abu Dawood because it was too dangerous for his family to travel amid the siege. They were unable to say goodbye to him properly.

"So we've buried him here at the Tal al-Sultan cemetery. We don't discriminate between Muslims or Christians here. He's buried amongst Muslims and there are no signs that indicate he is Christian," he said.

Cooperation between Christians and Muslims is not unusual in Gaza.

"I have to take care of him because he is Christian. We have to protect God's creations on this earth," said al-Natour.

"He is a human being, we respect human beings and appreciate humanity and we love every person on earth. It is not in our nature as Muslims to hate humanity."

The war erupted on Oct. 7 when Hamas gunmen burst into Israel from Gaza and killed 1,200 people, according to official Israeli figures, triggering the Israeli assault.

The cemetery is likely to receive many more people as the Palestinian death toll rises every day.

Too frightened to travel on dangerous roads that lead to their graveyards in Gaza, Palestinian Christians are lowering their loved ones into the ground in Muslim cemeteries amid the chaos of war between Israel and Hamas.

Too frightened to travel on dangerous roads that lead to their graveyards in Gaza, Palestinian Christians are lowering their loved ones into the ground in Muslim cemeteries amid the chaos of war between Israel and Hamas. "I've been working at this cemetery for almost 10 years and this is the first time in my life," said Ihsan al-Natour, a worker at the Tal al-Sultan cemetery, where a man picked up a shrouded body and placed it inside a grave as a small child watched. "Never have I seen a Christian being buried in a Muslim grave, but because of this war, we had no choice but to bury him here." Since the war broke out six months ago, Israel bombardments have killed more than 33,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, according to figures from the Gaza health ministry. Some people have lost entire families. Much of the coastal enclave has been turned into a wasteland, with buildings reduced to rubble and dust. Badly damaged hospitals cannot cope with the casualties, while hunger and possible famine add to the misery. Travel along roads that could get bombed or shelled only increases the anguish for people trying to bury their dead. Israel has yet to allow residents of northern Gaza, where the Christian cemetery is located, to return home. Al-Natour said Tal al-Sultan cemetery received the body of a Christian man named Hani Suheil Abu Dawood because it was too dangerous for his family to travel amid the siege. They were unable to say goodbye to him properly. "So we've buried him here at the Tal al-Sultan cemetery. We don't discriminate between Muslims or Christians here. He's buried amongst Muslims and there are no signs that indicate he is Christian," he said. Cooperation between Christians and Muslims is not unusual in Gaza. "I have to take care of him because he is Christian. We have to protect God's creations on this earth," said al-Natour. "He is a human being, we respect human beings and appreciate humanity and we love every person on earth. It is not in our nature as Muslims to hate humanity." The war erupted on Oct. 7 when Hamas gunmen burst into Israel from Gaza and killed 1,200 people, according to official Israeli figures, triggering the Israeli assault. The cemetery is likely to receive many more people as the Palestinian death toll rises every day.

Chaos of Gaza war forces Christians to bury dead in Muslim cemeteries

The Israeli military on Monday (Apr 8) launched a strike on southern Lebanon and killed a senior field commander of the Hezbollah group.

This comes after the United Nations warned that the artillery bombardment was outspreading, further calling for the warring sides to halt the violence.

The Israeli military and Hezbollah have been engaged in an exchange of fire across Lebanon's southern frontier parallelly along with the ongoing war in Gaza which has raised fears of an escalation of the conflict across the Middle East.

The Israeli fighter jets struck the village of al-Sultaniyah and killed a field commander in Hezbollah's elite Radwan units along with two other people, said the Israeli army and two Lebanese security sources in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-israels-withdrawal-from-south-gaza-a-rest-and-refit-plan-says-biden-govt-frustrated-708781">Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza not indicative of new operations, says US</a>

<h2>Deceased Hezbollah field commander was involved in planning attacks against Israelis, say IDF</h2>

The Israeli troops said that the Hezbollah field commander, identified as Ali Ahmed Hassin, was responsible for planning and executing attacks against Israelis.

“As part of his role, he was responsible for the planning and execution of terror attacks in the Ramim Ridge area against the Israeli home front,” said the IDF as per The Times Of Israel.

Hezbollah issued a funeral notice for Hassin, but&nbsp;did not share details about his role.

The Lebanese militant group said that Hassin was killed “on the road to Jerusalem.” This is a term that they use for the fighters that are killed in Israeli strikes. &nbsp;

Since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out, Israeli strikes have killed nearly 270 Hezbollah fighters, and around 50 civilians, including children, journalists and medics.

United Nations' Special Coordinator for Lebanon Joanna Wronecka and the commander of the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, Aroldo Lazaro released a joint statement on Monday stating that the violence must be halted.

"The unrelenting cycle of strikes and counterstrikes in breach of the cessation of hostilities constitute the most serious violation of Security Council Resolution 1701 since its adoption in 2006," they said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli military on Monday (Apr 8) launched a strike on southern Lebanon and killed a senior field commander of the Hezbollah group. This comes after the United Nations warned that the artillery bombardment was outspreading, further calling for the warring sides to halt the violence.

The Israeli military on Monday (Apr 8) launched a strike on southern Lebanon and killed a senior field commander of the Hezbollah group. This comes after the United Nations warned that the artillery bombardment was outspreading, further calling for the warring sides to halt the violence. The Israeli military and Hezbollah have been engaged in an exchange of fire across Lebanon's southern frontier parallelly along with the ongoing war in Gaza which has raised fears of an escalation of the conflict across the Middle East. The Israeli fighter jets struck the village of al-Sultaniyah and killed a field commander in Hezbollah's elite Radwan units along with two other people, said the Israeli army and two Lebanese security sources in a statement. Also read: Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza not indicative of new operations, says US Deceased Hezbollah field commander was involved in planning attacks against Israelis, say IDF The Israeli troops said that the Hezbollah field commander, identified as Ali Ahmed Hassin, was responsible for planning and executing attacks against Israelis. “As part of his role, he was responsible for the planning and execution of terror attacks in the Ramim Ridge area against the Israeli home front,” said the IDF as per The Times Of Israel. Hezbollah issued a funeral notice for Hassin, but did not share details about his role. The Lebanese militant group said that Hassin was killed “on the road to Jerusalem.” This is a term that they use for the fighters that are killed in Israeli strikes. Since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out, Israeli strikes have killed nearly 270 Hezbollah fighters, and around 50 civilians, including children, journalists and medics. United Nations' Special Coordinator for Lebanon Joanna Wronecka and the commander of the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, Aroldo Lazaro released a joint statement on Monday stating that the violence must be halted. "The unrelenting cycle of strikes and counterstrikes in breach of the cessation of hostilities constitute the most serious violation of Security Council Resolution 1701 since its adoption in 2006," they said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon

The Israeli army has been using artificial intelligence (AI) to identify targets for its bombing spree in Gaza, revealed a report on Wednesday (Apr 3).

According to an investigation by +972 Magazine and Local Call, the Israeli AI-based tool, named "Lavender," had a 10 per cent error rate.

<h2>Who developed Lavender?</h2>

As per the investigation, 'Lavender' was developed by Unit 8200, the Israel Defense Forces' elite intelligence division.

Unit 8200, the Israeli Intelligence Corps unit of the Israel Defense Forces responsible for clandestine operations, is comparable to the United States's National Security Agency or GCHQ in the United Kingdom.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-uses-unparalleled-ai-to-target-suspected-hamas-militants-machine-did-it-coldly-707460">Israel using 'unparalleled' AI to list out suspected Hamas targets: Report</a>

<h2>How does Lavender work?</h2>

The Lavender system is said to mark suspected operatives in the military wings of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) as potential bombing targets, including low-ranking individuals.&nbsp;

The software analyses data collected through mass surveillance on most of Gaza's 2.3 million residents, assessing and ranking the likelihood of each person's involvement in the military wing of Hamas or PIJ.

Individuals are given a rating of 1 to 100, indicating their likelihood of being a militant.

Lavender learns to identify characteristics of known operatives from Hamas and PIJ and then identifies similar characteristics among the general population. Individuals with multiple incriminating features are assigned higher ratings, making them potential targets for assassination.

<h2>How accurate is it?</h2>

As per the report, even though the AI machine has an error rate of 10 per cent, its outputs were treated "as if it were a human decision".

Citing six Israeli intelligence officials involved in the alleged programme, the investigation revealed that during the initial stages of the conflict in Gaza, the military heavily relied on Lavender. It identified as many as 37,000 (most of them junior) Palestinians as suspected militants for potential airstrikes and assassination.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-targeted-aid-convoy-systematically-car-by-car-and-killed-his-staff-members-alleges-wck-founder-707466">Israel targeted aid convoy 'systematically, car by car' and killed his staff members, alleges WCK founder</a>

These officials said that the outputs of the AI machine were treated "as if it were a human decision," and alleged that the human review of the suggested targets was cursory at best.

Reportedly, the approval "to automatically adopt Lavender's kill lists" was given about two weeks into the war. Before that, they were only treated as an "auxiliary tool".

This approval was granted after an intelligence officer manually checked the accuracy of a random sample of several hundred targets selected by the AI system and found that Lavender's results had 90 per cent accuracy in identifying targets.

"From that moment, sources said that if Lavender decided an individual was a militant in Hamas, they were essentially asked to treat that as an order, with no requirement to independently check why the machine made that choice or to examine the raw intelligence data on which it is based," reports the publication.

A senior official identified as 'B' confirmed that officers were not required to review the AI system's assessments "in order to save time and enable the mass production of human targets without hindrances".

"Everything was statistical, everything was neat — it was very dry," he noted.

"In war, there is no time to incriminate every target. So you’re willing to take the margin of error of using artificial intelligence, risking collateral damage and civilians dying, and risking attacking by mistake, and to live with it," said another officer.

<h2>Civilian casualties and 'collateral damage'</h2>

As per the report, two sources also alleged that the Israeli army, in an unprecedented move, decided during the first weeks of the war that for every junior Hamas operative that Lavender marked, it was permissible to kill up to 15 or 20 civilians. Before that, the military did not authorise any "collateral damage" during assassinations of low-ranking militants.&nbsp;

For targets that were a senior Hamas official with the rank of battalion or brigade commander, the army reportedly on several occasions authorised the killing of more than 100 civilians per assassination.

The report alleges that to assassinate the junior militants, the Israeli army preferred to only&nbsp;use "dumb" bombs.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Joint World Bank-UN report pegs Gaza's damages at $18.5 billion&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-joint-world-bank-un-report-pegs-gazas-damages-at-185-billion-707081/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Dumb bombs are unguided missiles that can&nbsp;destroy entire buildings on top of their occupants and cause significant casualties. These were used instead of 'smart' precision bombs because "you don’t want to waste expensive bombs on unimportant people — it’s very expensive for the country and there’s a shortage [of those bombs]," an intelligence officer identified as 'C' told the publication.

Another source told&nbsp;+972 magazine that they had personally authorised the bombing of "hundreds" of private homes of alleged junior operatives that the AI tool&nbsp;Lavender had&nbsp;marked. These attacks killed many civilians, ending entire families, all labelled as mere "collateral damage".

One source said that they nicknamed low-ranking militants on the AI kill lists 'garbage targets,' but said these were "more ethical than the targets that we bombed just for 'deterrence' — highrises that are evacuated and toppled just to cause destruction."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli army has been using artificial intelligence (AI) to identify targets for its bombing spree in Gaza, revealed a report on Wednesday (Apr 3). According to an investigation by +972 Magazine and Local Call, the Israeli AI-based tool, named "Lavender," had a 10 per cent error rate.

The Israeli army has been using artificial intelligence (AI) to identify targets for its bombing spree in Gaza, revealed a report on Wednesday (Apr 3). According to an investigation by +972 Magazine and Local Call, the Israeli AI-based tool, named "Lavender," had a 10 per cent error rate. Who developed Lavender? As per the investigation, 'Lavender' was developed by Unit 8200, the Israel Defense Forces' elite intelligence division. Unit 8200, the Israeli Intelligence Corps unit of the Israel Defense Forces responsible for clandestine operations, is comparable to the United States's National Security Agency or GCHQ in the United Kingdom. Also read | Israel using 'unparalleled' AI to list out suspected Hamas targets: Report How does Lavender work? The Lavender system is said to mark suspected operatives in the military wings of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) as potential bombing targets, including low-ranking individuals. The software analyses data collected through mass surveillance on most of Gaza's 2.3 million residents, assessing and ranking the likelihood of each person's involvement in the military wing of Hamas or PIJ. Individuals are given a rating of 1 to 100, indicating their likelihood of being a militant. Lavender learns to identify characteristics of known operatives from Hamas and PIJ and then identifies similar characteristics among the general population. Individuals with multiple incriminating features are assigned higher ratings, making them potential targets for assassination. How accurate is it? As per the report, even though the AI machine has an error rate of 10 per cent, its outputs were treated "as if it were a human decision". Citing six Israeli intelligence officials involved in the alleged programme, the investigation revealed that during the initial stages of the conflict in Gaza, the military heavily relied on Lavender. It identified as many as 37,000 (most of them junior) Palestinians as suspected militants for potential airstrikes and assassination. Also read | Israel targeted aid convoy 'systematically, car by car' and killed his staff members, alleges WCK founder These officials said that the outputs of the AI machine were treated "as if it were a human decision," and alleged that the human review of the suggested targets was cursory at best. Reportedly, the approval "to automatically adopt Lavender's kill lists" was given about two weeks into the war. Before that, they were only treated as an "auxiliary tool". This approval was granted after an intelligence officer manually checked the accuracy of a random sample of several hundred targets selected by the AI system and found that Lavender's results had 90 per cent accuracy in identifying targets. "From that moment, sources said that if Lavender decided an individual was a militant in Hamas, they were essentially asked to treat that as an order, with no requirement to independently check why the machine made that choice or to examine the raw intelligence data on which it is based," reports the publication. A senior official identified as 'B' confirmed that officers were not required to review the AI system's assessments "in order to save time and enable the mass production of human targets without hindrances". "Everything was statistical, everything was neat — it was very dry," he noted. "In war, there is no time to incriminate every target. So you’re willing to take the margin of error of using artificial intelligence, risking collateral damage and civilians dying, and risking attacking by mistake, and to live with it," said another officer. Civilian casualties and 'collateral damage' As per the report, two sources also alleged that the Israeli army, in an unprecedented move, decided during the first weeks of the war that for every junior Hamas operative that Lavender marked, it was permissible to kill up to 15 or 20 civilians. Before that, the military did not authorise any "collateral damage" during assassinations of low-ranking militants. For targets that were a senior Hamas official with the rank of battalion or brigade commander, the army reportedly on several occasions authorised the killing of more than 100 civilians per assassination. The report alleges that to assassinate the junior militants, the Israeli army preferred to only use "dumb" bombs. Watch: Joint World Bank-UN report pegs Gaza's damages at $18.5 billion Dumb bombs are unguided missiles that can destroy entire buildings on top of their occupants and cause significant casualties. These were used instead of 'smart' precision bombs because "you don’t want to waste expensive bombs on unimportant people — it’s very expensive for the country and there’s a shortage [of those bombs]," an intelligence officer identified as 'C' told the publication. Another source told +972 magazine that they had personally authorised the bombing of "hundreds" of private homes of alleged junior operatives that the AI tool Lavender had marked. These attacks killed many civilians, ending entire families, all labelled as mere "collateral damage". One source said that they nicknamed low-ranking militants on the AI kill lists 'garbage targets,' but said these were "more ethical than the targets that we bombed just for 'deterrence' — highrises that are evacuated and toppled just to cause destruction." (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Israeli military's use of AI tool 'Lavender' to generate kill lists

Japan on Tuesday said it will lift its suspension of funding to the UN&nbsp;Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) as the relief body works to regain trust after an allegation by Israel that some of its staff were involved in Oct. 7 attacks on Israel.

Tokyo and 15 other countries suspended around $450 million in funding earlier this year while the agency conducted an investigation into the allegation, throwing its operations in the war-torn Gaza Strip into turmoil.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-warns-israel-will-pay-for-attack-on-irans-damascus-consulate-706691">Hezbollah warns ‘Israel will pay' for attack on Iran's Damascus consulate</a>

Countries including Australia and Canada have since restored funding to UNRWA, the largest relief body operating in Gaza, which has been besieged by Israel since the attack.

Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, who met UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini in Tokyo last week, said the agency's role in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza was indispensable even as it works to improve governance and manage risks.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foreign-aid-workers-killed-after-food-delivery-in-israeli-strike-on-gaza-ngo-decries-attack-706700">Foreign aid workers killed after food delivery in Israeli strike on Gaza, NGO decries attack</a>

"In response to this, Japan will lift the moratorium on its financial contributions to UNRWA and provide assistance while ensuring and confirming the appropriateness of Japan's funds," she told reporters in parliament.

Approximately $35 million of originally planned funding was ready to be disbursed, she added.

Japan is the sixth biggest donor to the agency, according to the UNRWA's 2022 data.

Japan on Tuesday said it will lift its suspension of funding to the UN Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) as the relief body works to regain trust after an allegation by Israel that some of its staff were involved in Oct.

Japan on Tuesday said it will lift its suspension of funding to the UN Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) as the relief body works to regain trust after an allegation by Israel that some of its staff were involved in Oct. 7 attacks on Israel. Tokyo and 15 other countries suspended around $450 million in funding earlier this year while the agency conducted an investigation into the allegation, throwing its operations in the war-torn Gaza Strip into turmoil. Also read | Hezbollah warns ‘Israel will pay' for attack on Iran's Damascus consulate Countries including Australia and Canada have since restored funding to UNRWA, the largest relief body operating in Gaza, which has been besieged by Israel since the attack. Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, who met UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini in Tokyo last week, said the agency's role in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza was indispensable even as it works to improve governance and manage risks. Also read | Foreign aid workers killed after food delivery in Israeli strike on Gaza, NGO decries attack "In response to this, Japan will lift the moratorium on its financial contributions to UNRWA and provide assistance while ensuring and confirming the appropriateness of Japan's funds," she told reporters in parliament. Approximately $35 million of originally planned funding was ready to be disbursed, she added. Japan is the sixth biggest donor to the agency, according to the UNRWA's 2022 data.

Japan resumes funding to embattled Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA

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