There are "initial signs that indicate the possibility of moving forward" on a "new framework" to free the hostages, war cabinet minister Benny Gantz tells reporters in Tel Aviv. Israel's war cabinet minister Benny Gantz has declared that a new hostage deal between Israel and Hamas could be in the works. He however added if the sides fail to reach an agreement, Israel will invade Southern Gaza City of Rafah over Ramadan. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Israel releases footage of attack on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon

<p>Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday (Feb 19th) declared that Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is unwelcome in Israel until he retracts his remarks comparing the campaign against Hamas in Gaza to the Nazi genocide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Summoning Brazil's ambassador on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's instructions, Katz emphasised the seriousness of Lula's comments. Labelling them as a "serious antisemitic attack" he said that the Brazilian leader is "persona non grata" until he takes back the remark.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilian-president-lula-accuses-israel-of-genocide-in-gaza-netanyahu-responds-691529">Brazilian President Lula compares Gaza action to 'Holocaust', leaving Israel furious</a></strong></p>

<p>As per a statement from his office, he has instructed the message to be conveyed to Lula through Brazil's ambassador, stating, "We will not forget nor forgive. It is a serious antisemitic attack. In my name and the name of the citizens of Israel - tell President Lula that he is persona non grata in Israel until he takes it back."</p>

<h2><strong>What Lula said</strong></h2>

<p>The Brazilian President on Sunday (Feb 18th) accused Israel of committing "genocide" against Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.</p>

<p>Further drawing a comparison between Israeli military actions and Adolf Hitler's campaign to exterminate the Jewish people, he said, "It's not a war of soldiers against soldiers. It's a war between a highly prepared army and women and children."</p>

<p>While attending an African Union summit, Lula told reporters that what was happening in the Gaza Strip "isn't a war, it's a genocide".</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Prospects dim for truce in Israel-Hamas war</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/prospects-dim-for-truce-in-israel-hamas-war-691683/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"What's happening in the Gaza Strip with the Palestinian people hasn't happened at any other moment in history. Actually, it has happened: when Hitler decided to kill the Jews," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>'Shameful and grave' comments</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to Lula's remarks, Netanyahu deemed them as "shameful and grave", and said that his government had called in Brazil's ambassador in protest.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-israel-warns-rafah-offensive-will-be-launched-if-hostages-not-returned-by-ramadan-691563">Israel-Hamas war: Return hostages by Ramadan or face Rafah ground offensive from Mar 10, Israel warns</a></strong></p>

<p>In a statement, he said that the Brazilian President's comments were "a trivialisation of the Holocaust and an attempt to attack the Jewish people and the right of Israel to self-defence. Drawing comparisons between Israel and the Nazis and Hitler is to cross a red line".</p>

<p>"Israel is fighting to defend itself and ensure its future until total victory, and it is doing that while upholding international law," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday (Feb 19th) declared that Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is unwelcome in Israel until he retracts his remarks comparing the campaign against Hamas in Gaza to the Nazi genocide.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday (Feb 19th) declared that Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is unwelcome in Israel until he retracts his remarks comparing the campaign against Hamas in Gaza to the Nazi genocide. Summoning Brazil's ambassador on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's instructions, Katz emphasised the seriousness of Lula's comments. Labelling them as a "serious antisemitic attack" he said that the Brazilian leader is "persona non grata" until he takes back the remark. Also read | Brazilian President Lula compares Gaza action to 'Holocaust', leaving Israel furious As per a statement from his office, he has instructed the message to be conveyed to Lula through Brazil's ambassador, stating, "We will not forget nor forgive. It is a serious antisemitic attack. In my name and the name of the citizens of Israel - tell President Lula that he is persona non grata in Israel until he takes it back." What Lula said The Brazilian President on Sunday (Feb 18th) accused Israel of committing "genocide" against Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. Further drawing a comparison between Israeli military actions and Adolf Hitler's campaign to exterminate the Jewish people, he said, "It's not a war of soldiers against soldiers. It's a war between a highly prepared army and women and children." While attending an African Union summit, Lula told reporters that what was happening in the Gaza Strip "isn't a war, it's a genocide". Watch | Prospects dim for truce in Israel-Hamas war "What's happening in the Gaza Strip with the Palestinian people hasn't happened at any other moment in history. Actually, it has happened: when Hitler decided to kill the Jews," he said. 'Shameful and grave' comments Reacting to Lula's remarks, Netanyahu deemed them as "shameful and grave", and said that his government had called in Brazil's ambassador in protest. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Return hostages by Ramadan or face Rafah ground offensive from Mar 10, Israel warns In a statement, he said that the Brazilian President's comments were "a trivialisation of the Holocaust and an attempt to attack the Jewish people and the right of Israel to self-defence. Drawing comparisons between Israel and the Nazis and Hitler is to cross a red line". "Israel is fighting to defend itself and ensure its future until total victory, and it is doing that while upholding international law," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel declares Brazilian President Lula ‘persona non grata’ over his ‘antisemitic’ comments

<p lang="en-US">Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah pledged on Friday (Feb 16) to make Israel pay "with blood" for the civilians who were killed in Lebanon earlier this week as he warned that the group possesses missiles which can reach any place in Israel.<br />
<br />
"The enemy will pay with blood" for every child and woman who lost their lives during a cross-border fire in Lebanon, said Nasrallah, in a televised address.<br />
<br />
He further said that his Iran-backed movement has "precision-guided missiles that can reach... Eilat", on the Red Sea coast of Israel, beyond the northern towns which are generally targeted in retaliatory strikes.<br />
<br />
Hezbollah, which is an ally of Hamas, has been exchanging fires with its arch-foe Israel since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out on October 7.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-army-claims-to-have-killed-hezbollah-commander-in-lebanon-strike-690703">&nbsp;Israel Army claims to have killed Hezbollah commander in Lebanon strike</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">February 14 turned out as the bloodiest day for Lebanon when the Israeli military claimed that they had killed Hezbollah commander Ali al-Debs along with his deputy and another fighter in Nabatiyeh.<br />
<br />
In the strikes, 10 civilians were also killed as well as two other Hezbollah fighters, as per an AFP tally. Nasrallah said that civilians were killed with the aim of "putting pressure" on Hezbollah to launch attacks on Israel, however, they emphasised that the group will intensify its ongoing cross-border firing.<br />
<br />
"The response to the massacre must be to pursue the resistance (against Israel)" and Hezbollah will not just strike "(military) positions... and spying equipment" as it has carried out before, Nasrallah said.<br />
<br />
The Israeli army said that the strikes were carried out on Feb 14 after a soldier lost his life in a rocket fired from Lebanon. In retaliation, Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets which were fired at the northern Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona and said that this was their "first response" to the deadly Israeli strikes.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>UN reiterates 'rules of war: protect civilians'</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL) appealed "intensified" diplomatic efforts "to restore stability and safeguard the safety of civilians" after the bloodshed on Wednesday (Feb 14).</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Hezbollah says Israel will pay 'in blood' for killing civilians</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-hezbollah-says-israel-will-pay-in-blood-for-killing-civilians-691090/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">"The devastation, loss of life and injuries witnessed are deeply concerning," said UNIFIL spokesman Andrea Tenenti, appealing "all parties involved to halt hostilities immediately to prevent further escalation".<br />
<br />
UN humanitarian coordinator for Lebanon Imran Riza said that "the rules of war are clear: parties must protect civilians".<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the deadly Israeli strikes and vowed to lodge a complaint with the UN Security Council.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah pledged on Friday (Feb 16) to make Israel pay "with blood" for the civilians who were killed in Lebanon earlier this week as he warned that the group possesses missiles which can reach any place in Israel.

Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah pledged on Friday (Feb 16) to make Israel pay "with blood" for the civilians who were killed in Lebanon earlier this week as he warned that the group possesses missiles which can reach any place in Israel. "The enemy will pay with blood" for every child and woman who lost their lives during a cross-border fire in Lebanon, said Nasrallah, in a televised address. He further said that his Iran-backed movement has "precision-guided missiles that can reach... Eilat", on the Red Sea coast of Israel, beyond the northern towns which are generally targeted in retaliatory strikes. Hezbollah, which is an ally of Hamas, has been exchanging fires with its arch-foe Israel since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out on October 7. Also Read: Israel Army claims to have killed Hezbollah commander in Lebanon strike February 14 turned out as the bloodiest day for Lebanon when the Israeli military claimed that they had killed Hezbollah commander Ali al-Debs along with his deputy and another fighter in Nabatiyeh. In the strikes, 10 civilians were also killed as well as two other Hezbollah fighters, as per an AFP tally. Nasrallah said that civilians were killed with the aim of "putting pressure" on Hezbollah to launch attacks on Israel, however, they emphasised that the group will intensify its ongoing cross-border firing. "The response to the massacre must be to pursue the resistance (against Israel)" and Hezbollah will not just strike "(military) positions... and spying equipment" as it has carried out before, Nasrallah said. The Israeli army said that the strikes were carried out on Feb 14 after a soldier lost his life in a rocket fired from Lebanon. In retaliation, Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets which were fired at the northern Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona and said that this was their "first response" to the deadly Israeli strikes. UN reiterates 'rules of war: protect civilians' The UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL) appealed "intensified" diplomatic efforts "to restore stability and safeguard the safety of civilians" after the bloodshed on Wednesday (Feb 14). Watch: Israel-Hamas War: Hezbollah says Israel will pay 'in blood' for killing civilians "The devastation, loss of life and injuries witnessed are deeply concerning," said UNIFIL spokesman Andrea Tenenti, appealing "all parties involved to halt hostilities immediately to prevent further escalation". UN humanitarian coordinator for Lebanon Imran Riza said that "the rules of war are clear: parties must protect civilians". Meanwhile, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the deadly Israeli strikes and vowed to lodge a complaint with the UN Security Council. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel will pay 'with blood', vows Hezbollah chief after killing of Lebanon civilians

<p>Last year, 99 journalists were killed, and a majority of them — 77, lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas war. This, as per the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) makes the last 12 months the deadliest for media in almost a decade.</p>

<h2><strong>Highest toll</strong></h2>

<p>As per the organisation, this is the highest toll since 2015, an approximate 44 per cent increase on the previous year's (2022) figures.</p>

<p>The CPJ, as cited by the news agency AFP, said that if not for the conflict in the Middle East, the killing of reporters would have dropped globally year-on-year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-army-claims-to-have-killed-hezbollah-commander-in-lebanon-strike-690703">Israel army claims to have killed Hezbollah commander in Lebanon strike</a></strong></p>

<p>"In December 2023, CPJ reported that more journalists were killed in the first three months of the Israel-Gaza war than have ever been killed in a single country over an entire year," it said in a statement.</p>

<p>CPJ said that of the 77 journalists killed during the Israel-Hamas war, a vast majority — 72 of them — were Palestinians. Of the remaining five, three were Lebanese and two were Israelis.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | Israeli special forces enter largest functioning hospital in Gaza</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israeli-special-forces-enter-largest-functioning-hospital-in-gaza-690701/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Bearing witness on the frontlines</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, CPJ chief executive Jodie Ginsberg remarked that "journalists in Gaza are bearing witness on the frontlines."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The immense loss suffered by Palestinian journalists in this war will have long-term impacts for journalism not just in the Palestinian territories but for the region and beyond."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Every journalist killed is a further blow to our understanding of the world," she added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-he-prefers-joe-bidens-presidency-over-trump-in-white-house-690509">Putin says he prefers Joe Biden's presidency over Trump in White House</a></strong></p>

<p>While CPJ figures put the number of journalists killed in the Gaza conflict at 77, as per data released on February 7&nbsp;by the New York-based press freedom organisation, the death toll has risen to 85.</p>

<p>CPJ previously labelled the deaths "persecution" of journalists by Israeli forces. It is reportedly investigating the deaths of a dozen journalists killed during the Gaza war, looking into whether their deaths constitute a "war crime" — if they were deliberately killed by Israeli forces.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Last year, 99 journalists were killed, and a majority of them — 77, lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas war. This, as per the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) makes the last 12 months the deadliest for media in almost a decade.

Last year, 99 journalists were killed, and a majority of them — 77, lost their lives in the Israel-Hamas war. This, as per the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) makes the last 12 months the deadliest for media in almost a decade. Highest toll As per the organisation, this is the highest toll since 2015, an approximate 44 per cent increase on the previous year's (2022) figures. The CPJ, as cited by the news agency AFP, said that if not for the conflict in the Middle East, the killing of reporters would have dropped globally year-on-year. Also read | Israel army claims to have killed Hezbollah commander in Lebanon strike "In December 2023, CPJ reported that more journalists were killed in the first three months of the Israel-Gaza war than have ever been killed in a single country over an entire year," it said in a statement. CPJ said that of the 77 journalists killed during the Israel-Hamas war, a vast majority — 72 of them — were Palestinians. Of the remaining five, three were Lebanese and two were Israelis. Watch | Israel-Hamas war | Israeli special forces enter largest functioning hospital in Gaza Bearing witness on the frontlines In a statement, CPJ chief executive Jodie Ginsberg remarked that "journalists in Gaza are bearing witness on the frontlines." "The immense loss suffered by Palestinian journalists in this war will have long-term impacts for journalism not just in the Palestinian territories but for the region and beyond." "Every journalist killed is a further blow to our understanding of the world," she added. Also read | Putin says he prefers Joe Biden's presidency over Trump in White House While CPJ figures put the number of journalists killed in the Gaza conflict at 77, as per data released on February 7 by the New York-based press freedom organisation, the death toll has risen to 85. CPJ previously labelled the deaths "persecution" of journalists by Israeli forces. It is reportedly investigating the deaths of a dozen journalists killed during the Gaza war, looking into whether their deaths constitute a "war crime" — if they were deliberately killed by Israeli forces. (With inputs from agencies)

2023 deadliest year for journalists: 99 killed, 77 in Israel-Hamas War alone

<p>The Israeli military on Thursday (Feb 15) claimed that it had killed a Hezbollah commander, his deputy and another fighter in an air strike in Lebanese territory. In a statement, the military said that Ali al-Debs and the other two fighters were killed Wednesday night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the Israeli military, the fighters allegedly died "in a precise air strike carried out by an IDF (Israeli Army) aircraft on a Hezbollah military structure in Nabatiyeh".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to the Israeli strikes, Hezbollah said&nbsp;it had fired dozens of rockets into northern Israel on Thursday.</p>

<p>"In a first response to the massacres in Nabatiyeh and Sawaneh, Islamic resistance fighters fired dozens of Katyusha-type rockets at Kiryat Shmona," an Israeli town near the Lebanese border, Hezbollah said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A clash between Israel and Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah could cause cross-border escalation which has become a matter of concern for global leaders. Both sides have been exchanging near-daily fire across the border since the Israel-Hamas war broke out on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a report by the news agency AFP, a security source in Lebanon, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said that the strike had killed seven civilians from the same family along with Debs and two other Hezbollah members.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the report, the civilian death toll stood at 10 in Israeli strikes on Wednesday, which was the highest such toll since the cross-border hostilities erupted.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Israel would face reprisal'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, senior Hezbollah official and member of parliament Hassan Fadlallah said on Thursday (Feb 15) that Israel would face reprisal after two sets of strikes on southern Lebanon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked about the reaction to the strikes, Fadlallah told Reuters: "The enemy (Israel) will pay the price for these crimes."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fadlallah said Hezbollah had a "legitimate right to defend its people and will not flinch in doing what is needed to protect it" and insisted that Israel halt its war on Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Lebanon's caretaker prime minister Najib Mikati also instructed foreign minister Abdallah Bou Habib to register a new complaint at the United Nations Security Council over Wednesday's strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The Israeli military on Thursday (Feb 15) claimed that it had killed a Hezbollah commander, his deputy and another fighter in an air strike in Lebanese territory.

The Israeli military on Thursday (Feb 15) claimed that it had killed a Hezbollah commander, his deputy and another fighter in an air strike in Lebanese territory. In a statement, the military said that Ali al-Debs and the other two fighters were killed Wednesday night. As per the Israeli military, the fighters allegedly died "in a precise air strike carried out by an IDF (Israeli Army) aircraft on a Hezbollah military structure in Nabatiyeh". In response to the Israeli strikes, Hezbollah said it had fired dozens of rockets into northern Israel on Thursday. "In a first response to the massacres in Nabatiyeh and Sawaneh, Islamic resistance fighters fired dozens of Katyusha-type rockets at Kiryat Shmona," an Israeli town near the Lebanese border, Hezbollah said in a statement. A clash between Israel and Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah could cause cross-border escalation which has become a matter of concern for global leaders. Both sides have been exchanging near-daily fire across the border since the Israel-Hamas war broke out on October 7. In a report by the news agency AFP, a security source in Lebanon, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said that the strike had killed seven civilians from the same family along with Debs and two other Hezbollah members. As per the report, the civilian death toll stood at 10 in Israeli strikes on Wednesday, which was the highest such toll since the cross-border hostilities erupted. 'Israel would face reprisal' Meanwhile, senior Hezbollah official and member of parliament Hassan Fadlallah said on Thursday (Feb 15) that Israel would face reprisal after two sets of strikes on southern Lebanon. On being asked about the reaction to the strikes, Fadlallah told Reuters: "The enemy (Israel) will pay the price for these crimes." Fadlallah said Hezbollah had a "legitimate right to defend its people and will not flinch in doing what is needed to protect it" and insisted that Israel halt its war on Gaza. Meanwhile, Lebanon's caretaker prime minister Najib Mikati also instructed foreign minister Abdallah Bou Habib to register a new complaint at the United Nations Security Council over Wednesday's strikes. 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 Army claims to have killed Hezbollah commander in Lebanon strike

<p>An Israeli strike on south Lebanon claimed the lives of at least nine people, including seven civilians on Wednesday (Feb 15), reported news agency AFP quoting official sources.</p>

<p>On the other hand, the Israeli military said that it lost one of its soldiers in cross-border rocket fire.</p>

<p>While no group immediately claimed responsibility for the rocket attack, the exchange of deadly fire, which led to the worst single-day civilian death toll in Lebanon since the war broke out between Israel and Hamas on Oct 7, has raised concerns over heightened tensions and escalation of conflict between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah.</p>

<p>An Israeli strike on a residential building in the city of Nabatiyeh killed four civilians from the same family "including two women" on Wednesday, said a Lebanese security source as per AFP reports.</p>

<p>"The residents of the apartment targeted have no links to Hezbollah," added the source, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-probes-deadly-strikes-in-gaza-and-reported-use-of-white-phosphorus-in-lebanon-report-690361">US probes deadly strikes in Gaza and reported use of white phosphorus in Lebanon: Report</a></p>

<p>Earlier, according to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA), the Israeli warplanes targeted a house in south Lebanon's Sawwaneh, which claimed the lives of three members of the same family.</p>

<p>The victims were identified as a Syrian woman and her child, aged two, and a stepchild, 13.</p>

<p>The agency said that another attack, which was targeted at the village of Adshit, left one person dead and injured 10 others. The Hezbollah group said that the deceased was one of its fighters.</p>

<p>The Israeli military released a statement saying that 20-year-old Sergeant Omer Sarah Benjo was killed "as a result of a (rocket) launch carried out from Lebanese territory on a base in northern Israel".<br />
&nbsp;<br />
It said that the fighter jets had hit a series of "Hezbollah terror targets" in several areas of south Lebanon, including Adshit and Sawwaneh.</p>

<p>Hezbollah and the Israeli military had been exchanging fire for over four months when the Lebanese armed group fired rockets across the disputed border in support of Hamas, which launched a deadly attack on Israel on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>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;</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


An Israeli strike on south Lebanon claimed the lives of at least nine people, including seven civilians on Wednesday (Feb 15), reported news agency AFP quoting official sources.

An Israeli strike on south Lebanon claimed the lives of at least nine people, including seven civilians on Wednesday (Feb 15), reported news agency AFP quoting official sources. On the other hand, the Israeli military said that it lost one of its soldiers in cross-border rocket fire. While no group immediately claimed responsibility for the rocket attack, the exchange of deadly fire, which led to the worst single-day civilian death toll in Lebanon since the war broke out between Israel and Hamas on Oct 7, has raised concerns over heightened tensions and escalation of conflict between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah. An Israeli strike on a residential building in the city of Nabatiyeh killed four civilians from the same family "including two women" on Wednesday, said a Lebanese security source as per AFP reports. "The residents of the apartment targeted have no links to Hezbollah," added the source, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media. Also read: US probes deadly strikes in Gaza and reported use of white phosphorus in Lebanon: Report Earlier, according to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA), the Israeli warplanes targeted a house in south Lebanon's Sawwaneh, which claimed the lives of three members of the same family. The victims were identified as a Syrian woman and her child, aged two, and a stepchild, 13. The agency said that another attack, which was targeted at the village of Adshit, left one person dead and injured 10 others. The Hezbollah group said that the deceased was one of its fighters. The Israeli military released a statement saying that 20-year-old Sergeant Omer Sarah Benjo was killed "as a result of a (rocket) launch carried out from Lebanese territory on a base in northern Israel". It said that the fighter jets had hit a series of "Hezbollah terror targets" in several areas of south Lebanon, including Adshit and Sawwaneh. Hezbollah and the Israeli military had been exchanging fire for over four months when the Lebanese armed group fired rockets across the disputed border in support of Hamas, which launched a deadly attack on Israel on October 7. 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)

Israeli strikes on Lebanon kill 9 amid concerns over cross-border escalation

<p>An investigation has been launched by the United States government into Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip which killed civilians and the alleged use of white phosphorus in Lebanon in October, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The officials told the US-based media outlet that the State Department has aimed to find out whether or not Israel misused its bombs and missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The air strikes in the Gaza Strip reportedly killed civilians, including children. In particular, the department is investigating an airstrike on October 31 in the Jabalia refugee camp, which according to local health officials killed more than 125 victims.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-begins-series-of-strikes-in-lebanon-amid-concerns-over-cross-border-escalation-690319">Israel ‘begins series of strikes’ in Lebanon amid concerns over cross-border escalation</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The report further mentioned that concerns were raised after weapons investigators argued that Israel may have used a 2,000-pound bomb in the strike, which could have been supplied by the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the United Nations Human Rights Office, the strike could have been a war crime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The probe also focuses on the alleged use of white phosphorus during Israeli attacks in Lebanon in mid-October. White phosphorus is a waxy crystalline solid, which turns dark on exposure to light. This toxic substance comes in white to yellow transparent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It has a match-like or garlic-like, acrid odour, however, it is not feasible to depend on odour for its detection. It is used by the military in the form of various types of ammunition as an incendiary agent because it spontaneously catches fire in the air when it comes in contact with oxygen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>White phosphorus allegedly puts civilians at risk of serious and long-term injury and is prohibited from use in residential areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-it-destroyed-russian-warship-in-black-sea-690162">VIDEO: Ukraine claims it destroyed another Russian warship in Black Sea</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;‘We lived in terror,’ say Palestinians in Rafah&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>This is not the first time&nbsp;Israel has faced such allegations, however, it has always denied them. &nbsp;</p>

<p>During a press conference on Monday, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller responded to a question by Anadolu as he said that he was not able to verify the reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Whether weapons are provided by the United States or that they have acquired through some other method or that they manufacture them themselves, it is our expectation that they use them in full compliance with the laws of war, and we engage with them on that matter," said Miller.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US aid to Israel and other nations&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Republican leader of the US House of Representatives on Tuesday (Feb 13) blocked war aid for Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bill was approved in the Senate earlier Tuesday. It includes $95 billion in funding, mostly for the security of pro-Western Ukraine, as well as for the top US strategic priorities of Israel and Taiwan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


An investigation has been launched by the United States government into Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip which killed civilians and the alleged use of white phosphorus in Lebanon in October, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials.

An investigation has been launched by the United States government into Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip which killed civilians and the alleged use of white phosphorus in Lebanon in October, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials. The officials told the US-based media outlet that the State Department has aimed to find out whether or not Israel misused its bombs and missiles. The air strikes in the Gaza Strip reportedly killed civilians, including children. In particular, the department is investigating an airstrike on October 31 in the Jabalia refugee camp, which according to local health officials killed more than 125 victims. Also read: Israel ‘begins series of strikes’ in Lebanon amid concerns over cross-border escalation The report further mentioned that concerns were raised after weapons investigators argued that Israel may have used a 2,000-pound bomb in the strike, which could have been supplied by the US. As per the United Nations Human Rights Office, the strike could have been a war crime. The probe also focuses on the alleged use of white phosphorus during Israeli attacks in Lebanon in mid-October. White phosphorus is a waxy crystalline solid, which turns dark on exposure to light. This toxic substance comes in white to yellow transparent. It has a match-like or garlic-like, acrid odour, however, it is not feasible to depend on odour for its detection. It is used by the military in the form of various types of ammunition as an incendiary agent because it spontaneously catches fire in the air when it comes in contact with oxygen. White phosphorus allegedly puts civilians at risk of serious and long-term injury and is prohibited from use in residential areas. Also read: VIDEO: Ukraine claims it destroyed another Russian warship in Black Sea Watch: ‘We lived in terror,’ say Palestinians in Rafah × This is not the first time Israel has faced such allegations, however, it has always denied them. During a press conference on Monday, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller responded to a question by Anadolu as he said that he was not able to verify the reports. "Whether weapons are provided by the United States or that they have acquired through some other method or that they manufacture them themselves, it is our expectation that they use them in full compliance with the laws of war, and we engage with them on that matter," said Miller. US aid to Israel and other nations The Republican leader of the US House of Representatives on Tuesday (Feb 13) blocked war aid for Ukraine. The bill was approved in the Senate earlier Tuesday. It includes $95 billion in funding, mostly for the security of pro-Western Ukraine, as well as for the top US strategic priorities of Israel and Taiwan. 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)

US probes deadly strikes in Gaza and reported use of white phosphorus in Lebanon: Report

<p>The Syrian air defences, as per state media reports&nbsp;on Friday responded to an attack near the capital. According to&nbsp;the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports, a military airport west of Damascus came under attack. The war monitor said that "the area of the Mazzeh military airport west of the capital Damascus was targeted".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-attacks-disrupt-red-sea-shipping-houthi-leader-claims-real-victory-688428">As attacks disrupt Red Sea shipping, Houthi leader claims 'real victory'</a></strong></p>

<p>"Positions belonging to Lebanon's Hezbollah and other pro-Iran groups are present" it added.</p>

<h2><strong>Is Israel to blame?</strong></h2>

<p>The Defence Ministry, as per AFP, said that drones entered the Syrian airspace from the direction of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.</p>

<p>A statement from the defence ministry meanwhile said that "two drones violated Syrian air space from the direction of the occupied Syrian Golan". It said that the attack happened around 2:10 pm (1110 GMT).</p>

<p>"Air defence systems confronted them, and they were shot down west of Damascus," added the statement.</p>

<p>While the source of the attack was not immediately specified, Syria's official news agency, SANA (Syrian Arab News Agency)&nbsp;blamed&nbsp;Israel in its initial reports for "hostile" strikes.</p>

<p>Since the onset of the civil war in 2011, Israel has conducted hundreds of airstrikes on Syria. But after&nbsp;Hamas' attack on October 7, Israel&nbsp;has intensified its efforts against Iran-backed forces in Syria, according to AFP.</p>

<p>Israel typically refrains from commenting on individual strikes in Syria but has consistently stated its opposition to Iran's expanding presence in the region.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Syrian air defences, as per state media reports on Friday responded to an attack near the capital. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports, a military airport west of Damascus came under attack.

The Syrian air defences, as per state media reports on Friday responded to an attack near the capital. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports, a military airport west of Damascus came under attack. The war monitor said that "the area of the Mazzeh military airport west of the capital Damascus was targeted". Also read | As attacks disrupt Red Sea shipping, Houthi leader claims 'real victory' "Positions belonging to Lebanon's Hezbollah and other pro-Iran groups are present" it added. Is Israel to blame? The Defence Ministry, as per AFP, said that drones entered the Syrian airspace from the direction of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. A statement from the defence ministry meanwhile said that "two drones violated Syrian air space from the direction of the occupied Syrian Golan". It said that the attack happened around 2:10 pm (1110 GMT). "Air defence systems confronted them, and they were shot down west of Damascus," added the statement. While the source of the attack was not immediately specified, Syria's official news agency, SANA (Syrian Arab News Agency) blamed Israel in its initial reports for "hostile" strikes. Since the onset of the civil war in 2011, Israel has conducted hundreds of airstrikes on Syria. But after Hamas' attack on October 7, Israel has intensified its efforts against Iran-backed forces in Syria, according to AFP. Israel typically refrains from commenting on individual strikes in Syria but has consistently stated its opposition to Iran's expanding presence in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Syrian air defences 'engage hostile targets' near Damascus, source of attack unclear

<p>Overnight Israeli airstrikes on the southern Gaza City of Rafah have claimed the lives of "around 100" Palestinians including children, said the Hamas-run health ministry on Monday (Feb 12). Meanwhile, Israel reported that it had successfully rescued two hostages from the city.</p>

<h2><strong>Strikes kill 100</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, the Hamas-run territory's health ministry said that overnight heavy airstrikes on the overcrowded city of Rafah killed "around 100".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worried-about-border-situation-egypt-issues-ultimatum-to-hamas-to-reach-ceasefire-agreement-689393">Worried about Rafah border situation, Egypt issues ultimatum to Hamas to reach ceasefire deal</a></strong></p>

<p>It said that the strikes hit 14 houses and three mosques in different parts of the city. Reuters reports that the militant group&nbsp;said the attack on Rafah was a continuation of a "genocidal war" and forced displacement attempts Israel has waged against the Palestinian people.</p>

<p>As people flee Israel's heavy bombardment elsewhere in the Gaza Strip, the city, according to AFP, now hosts more than half of Gaza's total population. This amounts to around 1.4 million Palestinians, many of them living in tents.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: US President Biden warns Israel against Rafah assault</strong></p>

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<p>The Israeli military, as per the report, said it had "conducted a series of strikes on terror targets in the area of Shaboura in the southern Gaza Strip." The strikes had concluded, it added.</p>

<h2><strong>Rescue operation</strong></h2>

<p>The Israeli ministry,&nbsp;as per an AFP report, announced that after nearly 130 days of captivity, two Israeli-Argentinian hostages were rescued in a joint military, Shin Bet and police operation.</p>

<p>In a statement, they were identified as Fernando Simon Marman and Louis Har. The army said that they "were kidnapped by the Hamas terrorist organisation on October 7th from Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/israel-economy-poised-for-recovery-despite-moodys-downgrade-says-bank-of-israel-governor-689496">Israel economy poised for recovery despite Moody's downgrade, says bank of Israel Governor</a></strong></p>

<p>The two men are in a "good medical condition," it said.</p>

<p>In a briefing, army spokesperson Daniel Hagari revealed that, "The military and the Shin Bet have been working on this operation for a long time."</p>

<p>"They waited until the conditions were right to carry it out," he said.</p>

<p>He said that a firefight broke out during the rescue, due to which air strikes targeted nearby buildings from where shots were fired.</p>

<p>"Many terrorists were killed this evening during this operation and one of our fighters was slightly injured," said Hagari.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Overnight Israeli airstrikes on the southern Gaza City of Rafah have claimed the lives of "around 100" Palestinians including children, said the Hamas-run health ministry on Monday (Feb 12).

Overnight Israeli airstrikes on the southern Gaza City of Rafah have claimed the lives of "around 100" Palestinians including children, said the Hamas-run health ministry on Monday (Feb 12). Meanwhile, Israel reported that it had successfully rescued two hostages from the city. Strikes kill 100 In a statement, the Hamas-run territory's health ministry said that overnight heavy airstrikes on the overcrowded city of Rafah killed "around 100". Also read | Worried about Rafah border situation, Egypt issues ultimatum to Hamas to reach ceasefire deal It said that the strikes hit 14 houses and three mosques in different parts of the city. Reuters reports that the militant group said the attack on Rafah was a continuation of a "genocidal war" and forced displacement attempts Israel has waged against the Palestinian people. As people flee Israel's heavy bombardment elsewhere in the Gaza Strip, the city, according to AFP, now hosts more than half of Gaza's total population. This amounts to around 1.4 million Palestinians, many of them living in tents. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: US President Biden warns Israel against Rafah assault × The Israeli military, as per the report, said it had "conducted a series of strikes on terror targets in the area of Shaboura in the southern Gaza Strip." The strikes had concluded, it added. Rescue operation The Israeli ministry, as per an AFP report, announced that after nearly 130 days of captivity, two Israeli-Argentinian hostages were rescued in a joint military, Shin Bet and police operation. In a statement, they were identified as Fernando Simon Marman and Louis Har. The army said that they "were kidnapped by the Hamas terrorist organisation on October 7th from Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak". Also read | Israel economy poised for recovery despite Moody's downgrade, says bank of Israel Governor The two men are in a "good medical condition," it said. In a briefing, army spokesperson Daniel Hagari revealed that, "The military and the Shin Bet have been working on this operation for a long time." "They waited until the conditions were right to carry it out," he said. He said that a firefight broke out during the rescue, due to which air strikes targeted nearby buildings from where shots were fired. "Many terrorists were killed this evening during this operation and one of our fighters was slightly injured," said Hagari. (With inputs from agencies)

Overnight airstrikes kill ‘around 100’ in Rafah; Israel rescues two hostages

<p>Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, as per reports, is considering removing posts on social media that use the word "Zionist." This step is being considered to counter a surge of antisemitism, hate speech online, especially during the Israel-Gaza conflict, reports The Washington Post citing people familiar with private deliberations and internal guidance on the topic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly, the social media giant has told some civil society groups that 'Zionist' at times is being used as a hurtful substitute for 'Jews' or 'Israelis'.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/released-israeli-hostages-plead-with-netanyahu-to-push-for-ceasefire-deal-688786">Released Israeli hostages plead with Netanyahu to push for ceasefire deal</a></strong></p>

<p>The CEO and national director of the Anti-Defamation League, Jonathan Greenblatt, as per the report said "Whether the culprit is a hardened antizionist or a White nationalist, the term 'Zionist' is often used as an ugly synonym for 'Jew'". He also said that he had not been consulted on Meta's potential policy changes.</p>

<h2><strong>Antisemitism online</strong></h2>

<p>Since the start of the Israel and Hamas there has been a lot more hate speech online.</p>

<p>On platforms including Meta's Facebook and Instagram, Greenblatt said "antisemitic posts … directly invoke the words 'Zionist' or 'Zionism' in a manner that is not just pejorative but antisemitic, threatening and shameful."</p>

<p>In a statement Meta spokeswoman Erin McPike said that the company doesn't allow&nbsp;people to attack others on the basis of religion or nationality.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-possible-offensive-netanyahu-orders-plan-for-rafah-evacuation-688806">Ahead of possible offensive, Netanyahu orders plan for Rafah evacuation</a></strong></p>

<p>"While the term 'Zionist' often refers to a person’s ideology, which is not a protected characteristic, it can also be used to refer to Jewish or Israeli people."</p>

<p>"Given the increase in polarised public discourse due to events in the Middle East, we believe it’s important to assess our guidance for reviewing posts that use the term 'Zionist.'"</p>

<h2><strong>People against the move</strong></h2>

<p>However, not everyone is okay with the move. It has triggered an alarm among digital rights activists and pro-Palestinians who have alleged that the group would stifle legitimate political critiques of the Israeli government, its armed forces and Zionism, during the ongoing war.</p>

<p>Nadim Nashif, co-founder of the pro-Palestinian digital rights group 7amleh said that "Zionism is an ideology. It's not a race."</p>

<p>"As I told them, in my opinion, this is a slippery slope. From there, you can remove a lot of content that is criticizing Israel and Zionism that is part of legitimate political discussion."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, as per reports, is considering removing posts on social media that use the word "Zionist." This step is being considered to counter a surge of antisemitism, hate speech online, especially during the Israel-Gaza conflict, reports The Washington Post citing people familiar with private deliberations and internal guidance on the topic.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, as per reports, is considering removing posts on social media that use the word "Zionist." This step is being considered to counter a surge of antisemitism, hate speech online, especially during the Israel-Gaza conflict, reports The Washington Post citing people familiar with private deliberations and internal guidance on the topic. Reportedly, the social media giant has told some civil society groups that 'Zionist' at times is being used as a hurtful substitute for 'Jews' or 'Israelis'. Also read | Released Israeli hostages plead with Netanyahu to push for ceasefire deal The CEO and national director of the Anti-Defamation League, Jonathan Greenblatt, as per the report said "Whether the culprit is a hardened antizionist or a White nationalist, the term 'Zionist' is often used as an ugly synonym for 'Jew'". He also said that he had not been consulted on Meta's potential policy changes. Antisemitism online Since the start of the Israel and Hamas there has been a lot more hate speech online. On platforms including Meta's Facebook and Instagram, Greenblatt said "antisemitic posts … directly invoke the words 'Zionist' or 'Zionism' in a manner that is not just pejorative but antisemitic, threatening and shameful." In a statement Meta spokeswoman Erin McPike said that the company doesn't allow people to attack others on the basis of religion or nationality. Also read | Ahead of possible offensive, Netanyahu orders plan for Rafah evacuation "While the term 'Zionist' often refers to a person’s ideology, which is not a protected characteristic, it can also be used to refer to Jewish or Israeli people." "Given the increase in polarised public discourse due to events in the Middle East, we believe it’s important to assess our guidance for reviewing posts that use the term 'Zionist.'" People against the move However, not everyone is okay with the move. It has triggered an alarm among digital rights activists and pro-Palestinians who have alleged that the group would stifle legitimate political critiques of the Israeli government, its armed forces and Zionism, during the ongoing war. Nadim Nashif, co-founder of the pro-Palestinian digital rights group 7amleh said that "Zionism is an ideology. It's not a race." "As I told them, in my opinion, this is a slippery slope. From there, you can remove a lot of content that is criticizing Israel and Zionism that is part of legitimate political discussion." (With inputs from agencies)

Meta considers removing posts with word 'zionist'. Here's why

<p>Israel conducted an airstrike in southern Lebanon on Thursday (February 8) wounding a military official of Hezbollah, the Iran backed militant group. News agency AFP quoted a source within Lebanese security apparatus to say that the official was "seriously wounded and a companion was also injured" in the strike in the city of Nabatiyeh, some way from the border region that has seen almost daily exchanges of fire since the Israel-Hamas war broke out last October."</p>

<p>National News Agency, the state-run news outlet in Lebanon said that a vehicle caught fire after being hit by a missile fired from Israeli drone. The drone reportedly entered Nabatiyeh at around 4:15 pm (1415 GMT).</p>

<p>AFP reported that Israel military was "examining reports" of the strike.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Israeli PM Netanyahu rejects Hamas' offer of ceasefire</strong></p>

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<p>Hezbollah said earlier that it had attacked an Israeli brigade headquarters in a border town of Kiryat Shmona.</p>

<p>The ongoing Israel-Hamas war erupted after Hamas fighters crossed border from the Gaza Strip to launch an attack in southern Israel killing more than thousand Israelis and taking hostages. Israel responded with an overwhelming military attack on the Gaza Strip. As the war went on, there was exchange of fire between Hezbollah and Israeli forces along Israel-lebanon border. This has often caused fears of a regional war erupting out of the situation surrounding Israel-Hamas war.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-netanyahu-orders-troops-to-prepare-to-enter-into-rafah-688179">Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu orders troops to prepare to enter Rafah</a></strong></p>

<p>Hezbollah has targetted Israeli army position along the border and has received help from Palestinian Islamist Movement. Israel has bombarded Lebanon's border towns as well resulting in 227 deaths so far. Majority of those dead are Hezbollah fighter while 27 civilian lives have been lost, said AFP.</p>

<p>Israeli army has said that there have been 15 deaths on its side in the northern border areas. Those dead include nine soldiers and six civilians.</p>

<p>Although hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah are out in the open following outbreak of Israel-Hamas war, the situation has not descended into an all-out war so far.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israel conducted an airstrike in southern Lebanon on Thursday (February 8) wounding a military official of Hezbollah, the Iran backed militant group. News agency AFP quoted a source within Lebanese security apparatus to say that the official was "seriously wounded and a companion was also injured" in the strike in the city of Nabatiyeh, some way from the border region that has seen almost daily exchanges of fire since the Israel-Hamas war broke out last October.

Israel conducted an airstrike in southern Lebanon on Thursday (February 8) wounding a military official of Hezbollah, the Iran backed militant group. News agency AFP quoted a source within Lebanese security apparatus to say that the official was "seriously wounded and a companion was also injured" in the strike in the city of Nabatiyeh, some way from the border region that has seen almost daily exchanges of fire since the Israel-Hamas war broke out last October." National News Agency, the state-run news outlet in Lebanon said that a vehicle caught fire after being hit by a missile fired from Israeli drone. The drone reportedly entered Nabatiyeh at around 4:15 pm (1415 GMT). AFP reported that Israel military was "examining reports" of the strike. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Israeli PM Netanyahu rejects Hamas' offer of ceasefire × Hezbollah said earlier that it had attacked an Israeli brigade headquarters in a border town of Kiryat Shmona. The ongoing Israel-Hamas war erupted after Hamas fighters crossed border from the Gaza Strip to launch an attack in southern Israel killing more than thousand Israelis and taking hostages. Israel responded with an overwhelming military attack on the Gaza Strip. As the war went on, there was exchange of fire between Hezbollah and Israeli forces along Israel-lebanon border. This has often caused fears of a regional war erupting out of the situation surrounding Israel-Hamas war. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu orders troops to prepare to enter Rafah Hezbollah has targetted Israeli army position along the border and has received help from Palestinian Islamist Movement. Israel has bombarded Lebanon's border towns as well resulting in 227 deaths so far. Majority of those dead are Hezbollah fighter while 27 civilian lives have been lost, said AFP. Israeli army has said that there have been 15 deaths on its side in the northern border areas. Those dead include nine soldiers and six civilians. Although hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah are out in the open following outbreak of Israel-Hamas war, the situation has not descended into an all-out war so far. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel drone strike in Lebanon critically injures Hezbollah official: Report

<p>More than a fifth of the hostages being held by Hamas militants in Gaza are dead, claims an internal assessment conducted by the Israeli military.</p>

<p>As per the Israeli military report, 32 of the 136 hostages captured by Hamas and its allies during their Oct. 7 attack on Israel have died since the start of the ongoing war in the Middle East. The report curated by Israeli intelligence officers has been reviewed and reported on by the New York Times.</p>

<h2><strong>Families notified</strong></h2>

<p>As per the report citing four military officials speaking on the condition of anonymity, families of the deceased Hamas hostages have been informed after the deaths were confirmed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-strikes-two-houthi-drones-in-yemen-in-self-defence-687383">Middle East crisis: US strikes two Houthi drones in Yemen in 'self-defence'</a></strong></p>

<p>The officials told NYT that at least 20 other hostages may also have been killed in detention. They said that the military was in the process of assessing the veracity as of now unconfirmed intelligence.</p>

<p>This figure, of 32 dead hostages, as per the report, is higher than any number previously disclosed by the Israeli authorities. In a comment to the publication, the Israeli military disclosed that most of the dead were killed on Oct 7 itself.</p>

<h2><strong>Worsening tensions</strong></h2>

<p>Tensions between Israel and Hamas are continuously on rise. This news is likely to worsen the situation. As per the report, it may cause a furore in Israel where debate over the government course of action to bring back the hostages has divided opinions.</p>

<p>Some, as per Reuters, have accused international organisations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government of not doing enough to ensure the hostages' return.</p>

<p>The Oct 7 attack claimed 1,200 lives. Around 250 people were taken to the Palestinian enclave as hostages. Of these, roughly half have been freed — most of them during a temporary truce in November of last year, when they were exchanged for 240 Palestinian prisoners and detainees held in Israeli jails.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/furious-biden-calls-netanyahu-bad-fuking-guy-as-middle-east-crisis-deepens-report-687236">Furious Biden called Netanyahu ‘bad fu*king guy’ as Middle East crisis deepens: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Since then, the issue of what price Israel should pay to get the more than 100 remaining hostages back, and how to balance that goal against its other stated war objective, to destroy Hamas, has become increasingly polarising.</p>

<p>Israel has vowed to annihilate Hamas in Gaza after the militant group's fighters rampaged through Israeli towns. The country's government has said that its military operations in Gaza will bring back the hostages.</p>

<p>However, families have increasingly been putting pressure on Netanyahu, with the leader's popularity falling to rock bottom over the war.</p>

<p>Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu told the families of hostages that a "real effort" was being made towards their return. However, he said that it was too early to say how such a move would play out.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


More than a fifth of the hostages being held by Hamas militants in Gaza are dead, claims an internal assessment conducted by the Israeli military. As per the Israeli military report, 32 of the 136 hostages captured by Hamas and its allies during their Oct.

More than a fifth of the hostages being held by Hamas militants in Gaza are dead, claims an internal assessment conducted by the Israeli military. As per the Israeli military report, 32 of the 136 hostages captured by Hamas and its allies during their Oct. 7 attack on Israel have died since the start of the ongoing war in the Middle East. The report curated by Israeli intelligence officers has been reviewed and reported on by the New York Times. Families notified As per the report citing four military officials speaking on the condition of anonymity, families of the deceased Hamas hostages have been informed after the deaths were confirmed. Also read | Middle East crisis: US strikes two Houthi drones in Yemen in 'self-defence' The officials told NYT that at least 20 other hostages may also have been killed in detention. They said that the military was in the process of assessing the veracity as of now unconfirmed intelligence. This figure, of 32 dead hostages, as per the report, is higher than any number previously disclosed by the Israeli authorities. In a comment to the publication, the Israeli military disclosed that most of the dead were killed on Oct 7 itself. Worsening tensions Tensions between Israel and Hamas are continuously on rise. This news is likely to worsen the situation. As per the report, it may cause a furore in Israel where debate over the government course of action to bring back the hostages has divided opinions. Some, as per Reuters, have accused international organisations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government of not doing enough to ensure the hostages' return. The Oct 7 attack claimed 1,200 lives. Around 250 people were taken to the Palestinian enclave as hostages. Of these, roughly half have been freed — most of them during a temporary truce in November of last year, when they were exchanged for 240 Palestinian prisoners and detainees held in Israeli jails. Also read | Furious Biden called Netanyahu ‘bad fu*king guy’ as Middle East crisis deepens: Report Since then, the issue of what price Israel should pay to get the more than 100 remaining hostages back, and how to balance that goal against its other stated war objective, to destroy Hamas, has become increasingly polarising. Israel has vowed to annihilate Hamas in Gaza after the militant group's fighters rampaged through Israeli towns. The country's government has said that its military operations in Gaza will bring back the hostages. However, families have increasingly been putting pressure on Netanyahu, with the leader's popularity falling to rock bottom over the war. Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu told the families of hostages that a "real effort" was being made towards their return. However, he said that it was too early to say how such a move would play out. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East crisis: 32 Israeli hostages in Hamas custody dead, claims report

<p>Britain's top diplomat, former prime minister David Cameron on Thursday (Feb 1st) said that his country could officially recognise a Palestinian state after a cease-fire. Speaking&nbsp;during a visit to Lebanon, he&nbsp;said this could be done without waiting for the outcome of what could be years-long talks on a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians.</p>

<h2><strong>Terms and conditions applied</strong></h2>

<p>The British Foreign Secretary said that the UK's recognition of an independent State of Palestine "can't come at the start of the process, but it doesn't have to be the very end of the process."</p>

<p>"It could be something that we consider as this process, as this advance to a solution, becomes more real," said Cameron.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-gives-initial-positive-confirmation-on-truce-plan-says-qatar-686142">Hamas gives 'initial positive confirmation' on truce plan, says Qatar</a></strong></p>

<p>"What we need to do is give the Palestinian people a horizon towards a better future, the future of having a state of their own."</p>

<p>However, he stated that no recognition could come while Hamas remained in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You can't have a two-state solution with Gaza still controlled by the people responsible for 7 October," he said, referring to the Hamas attack that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cameron also said the first step towards this must be a "pause in the fighting" in Gaza, which he said would eventually turn into "a permanent, sustainable ceasefire".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seven-hostages-rescued-as-turkish-police-detain-gunman-protesting-gaza-war-at-procter-gamble-factory-686155">Seven hostages rescued as Turkish police detain gunman protesting Gaza war at Procter &amp; Gamble factory</a></strong></p>

<p>The ex-prime minister labelled the prospect "absolutely vital for the long-term peace and security of the region."</p>

<h2><strong>International support for two-state</strong></h2>

<p>Globally, many Western nations, including the United Kingdom and the United States, have voiced their support for the idea of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, reports The Guardian. However, they stress that Palestinian independence must come as part of a negotiated settlement.</p>

<p>Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have consistently been against the creation of an independent Palestinian state after the end of the ongoing war. Netanyahu, in December, even boasted that he was instrumental in stopping Palestine's statehood.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Red Sea Crisis: US military says it downed Houthi missiles in Red Sea</strong></p>

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<p>Speaking at a press conference in Tel Aviv, he claimed that he had halted the progression of the Oslo peace process. Calling the Oslo Accords "a fateful mistake", he said that Israel would not "repeat the mistake of Oslo".</p>

<p>As per news outlet Common Dreams, he also said that the results of the "little Palestinian state in Gaza" brought about by the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in 2005 demonstrated the dangers of allowing Palestinian sovereignty in the West Bank.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Britain's top diplomat, former prime minister David Cameron on Thursday (Feb 1st) said that his country could officially recognise a Palestinian state after a cease-fire.

Britain's top diplomat, former prime minister David Cameron on Thursday (Feb 1st) said that his country could officially recognise a Palestinian state after a cease-fire. Speaking during a visit to Lebanon, he said this could be done without waiting for the outcome of what could be years-long talks on a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians. Terms and conditions applied The British Foreign Secretary said that the UK's recognition of an independent State of Palestine "can't come at the start of the process, but it doesn't have to be the very end of the process." "It could be something that we consider as this process, as this advance to a solution, becomes more real," said Cameron. Also read | Hamas gives 'initial positive confirmation' on truce plan, says Qatar "What we need to do is give the Palestinian people a horizon towards a better future, the future of having a state of their own." However, he stated that no recognition could come while Hamas remained in Gaza. "You can't have a two-state solution with Gaza still controlled by the people responsible for 7 October," he said, referring to the Hamas attack that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza. Cameron also said the first step towards this must be a "pause in the fighting" in Gaza, which he said would eventually turn into "a permanent, sustainable ceasefire". Also read | Seven hostages rescued as Turkish police detain gunman protesting Gaza war at Procter & Gamble factory The ex-prime minister labelled the prospect "absolutely vital for the long-term peace and security of the region." International support for two-state Globally, many Western nations, including the United Kingdom and the United States, have voiced their support for the idea of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, reports The Guardian. However, they stress that Palestinian independence must come as part of a negotiated settlement. Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have consistently been against the creation of an independent Palestinian state after the end of the ongoing war. Netanyahu, in December, even boasted that he was instrumental in stopping Palestine's statehood. Watch | Red Sea Crisis: US military says it downed Houthi missiles in Red Sea Speaking at a press conference in Tel Aviv, he claimed that he had halted the progression of the Oslo peace process. Calling the Oslo Accords "a fateful mistake", he said that Israel would not "repeat the mistake of Oslo". As per news outlet Common Dreams, he also said that the results of the "little Palestinian state in Gaza" brought about by the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in 2005 demonstrated the dangers of allowing Palestinian sovereignty in the West Bank. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain could officially recognise a Palestinian state after cease-fire, says top UK diplomat

<p>On Sunday (Jan 28), three members of the United States troops were killed in a drone attack in Jordan. The US has blamed Iran-backed Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah for the attack that killed specialists Kennedy Ladon Sanders, 24, Breonna Alexsondria Moffett, 23, and Sergeant William Jerome Rivers, 46 and wounded dozens more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to the press on Monday (Jan 29), Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh blamed Iran for enabling groups to attack the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Singh said,&nbsp;"In terms of, attribution for the attack, we know this is an IRGC-backed militia. It has the footprints of Kataib Hezbollah. But we are not making a final assessment on that. Our teams here are continuing to do the analysis, but we know that Iran is behind it. And, certainly, as we've said before, here in this briefing room, Iran continues to arm and equip these groups to launch these attacks."</p>

<p>But, who is Kataib Hezbollah? Here's everything we know.</p>

<h2><strong>Kataib Hezbollah — Establishment and more</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>As per Reuters, the militant group Kataib Hezbollah was founded in the aftermath of the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Founded in 2007, KH seeks to establish an Iran-aligned government in Iraq, expel US and coalition forces from the country, and advance Iranian interests throughout the Middle East," states Counter Terrorism Guide.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-william-rivers-kennedy-sanders-and-breonna-moffett-the-us-soldiers-killed-in-jordan-685084">Who are William Rivers, Kennedy Sanders and Breonna Moffett - the US soldiers killed in Jordan?</a></strong></p>

<p>It is one of the elite Iraqi armed factions closest to Iran. While it is primarily based in Iraq and Syria; as per the US National Counterterrorism Center, it also possibly operates in Bahrain, Iran, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p>Soon after it was founded, the group developed a reputation for its deadly attacks against both military and diplomatic targets. In the 2000s, it started carrying out the attacks using a mixture of sniper, rocket and mortar attacks and even roadside bombs.</p>

<h2><strong>Kataib Hezbollah — Leader</strong></h2>

<p>The group was led by dual Iraqi-Iranian citizen, Jamal Jaafar Ibrahimi alias Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who was killed in 2020 by a US drone strike. Iranian Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani was also killed in the strike at Baghdad's international airport. Ibrahimi&nbsp;was allegedly the mastermind behind the US and French embassy bombings in Kuwait in 1983 and the assassination attempt on Kuwait’s emir in 1985.</p>

<p>As per UK-based news agency Reuters, the shadowy group has no announced leadership structure. However, quoting Iraqi officials and members of the group, the news agency reports that the group is believed to have thousands of fighters and an arsenal of drones, rockets and short-range ballistic missiles.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Three US soldiers killed, 34 injured in drone strike in Jordan</strong></p>

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<p>However, as per National Counterterrorism Center, Kataib Hezbollah's current overall leader is Ahmad al-Hamidawi. He was named a Specially Designated Global Terrorist in February 2020.</p>

<h2><strong>Kataib Hezbollah — Ideology</strong></h2>

<p>Kataib Hezbollah, as per reports is the most powerful armed faction in the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, and also the "most secretive" and elite of Iraq's predominantly Shi'ite militias.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the US Department of State, Kataib Hezbollah is "a radical Shia Islamist group with an anti-Western establishment and jihadist ideology."</p>

<p>On its website, the group states that its first goal "was and still remains: thwarting the American project in the region, defeat of the occupation, and expelling them from Iraq, broken and humbled…. As for our jihadi pillars, there are four. Firstly, waging jihad against the occupation until the last American is expelled from Iraq."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-vows-action-after-jordan-attack-releases-names-of-3-us-soldiers-killed-684938">Pentagon vows action after Jordan attack, releases names of 3 soldiers killed as Iran denies involvement</a></strong></p>

<p>It is an umbrella group of hardline Shi'ite armed groups that claimed more than 150 attacks on US forces since the start of the Gaza war. The militant group was designated as a foreign terrorist organisation in July 2009 by the United States.</p>

<p>The group reportedly has a transnational Shi'ite ideology and views the borders between Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon as Western constructs. It also considers US troops in Iraq as foreign occupiers and has even called for their forceful expulsion.</p>

<p>Kataib Hezbollah is known to have fought alongside other Shi'ite militias against mostly Sunni rebels during Syria's civil war. Ever since that, it has continued to operate in Syria.</p>

<p>Kataib Hezbollah, is also known to be a prominent militia within Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). Initially established in 2014 to combat the Islamic State, the PMF has evolved into an officially recognised security force with fighters receiving state salaries. Notably, Kataib Hezbollah members, some of whom are designated as terrorists by the US, hold influential positions in the PMF, reports Reuters.</p>

<p>Despite being technically under the command of Iraq's prime minister as part of the PMF, Kataib Hezbollah often operates independently, challenging and defying government directives to cease attacks on US forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to its military activities, Kataib Hezbollah is believed to have ventured into the political arena. Although the group neither confirms nor denies these political links publicly, it is widely perceived to have formed a political party that participated in the 2021 elections. Remarkably, the group secured several seats in the Iraqi parliament, signalling its expanding influence beyond the realm of armed operations.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


On Sunday (Jan 28), three members of the United States troops were killed in a drone attack in Jordan. The US has blamed Iran-backed Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah for the attack that killed specialists Kennedy Ladon Sanders, 24, Breonna Alexsondria Moffett, 23, and Sergeant William Jerome Rivers, 46 and wounded dozens more.

On Sunday (Jan 28), three members of the United States troops were killed in a drone attack in Jordan. The US has blamed Iran-backed Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah for the attack that killed specialists Kennedy Ladon Sanders, 24, Breonna Alexsondria Moffett, 23, and Sergeant William Jerome Rivers, 46 and wounded dozens more. Speaking to the press on Monday (Jan 29), Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh blamed Iran for enabling groups to attack the United States. Singh said, "In terms of, attribution for the attack, we know this is an IRGC-backed militia. It has the footprints of Kataib Hezbollah. But we are not making a final assessment on that. Our teams here are continuing to do the analysis, but we know that Iran is behind it. And, certainly, as we've said before, here in this briefing room, Iran continues to arm and equip these groups to launch these attacks." But, who is Kataib Hezbollah? Here's everything we know. Kataib Hezbollah — Establishment and more As per Reuters, the militant group Kataib Hezbollah was founded in the aftermath of the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq. "Founded in 2007, KH seeks to establish an Iran-aligned government in Iraq, expel US and coalition forces from the country, and advance Iranian interests throughout the Middle East," states Counter Terrorism Guide. Also read | Who are William Rivers, Kennedy Sanders and Breonna Moffett - the US soldiers killed in Jordan? It is one of the elite Iraqi armed factions closest to Iran. While it is primarily based in Iraq and Syria; as per the US National Counterterrorism Center, it also possibly operates in Bahrain, Iran, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia. Soon after it was founded, the group developed a reputation for its deadly attacks against both military and diplomatic targets. In the 2000s, it started carrying out the attacks using a mixture of sniper, rocket and mortar attacks and even roadside bombs. Kataib Hezbollah — Leader The group was led by dual Iraqi-Iranian citizen, Jamal Jaafar Ibrahimi alias Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who was killed in 2020 by a US drone strike. Iranian Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani was also killed in the strike at Baghdad's international airport. Ibrahimi was allegedly the mastermind behind the US and French embassy bombings in Kuwait in 1983 and the assassination attempt on Kuwait’s emir in 1985. As per UK-based news agency Reuters, the shadowy group has no announced leadership structure. However, quoting Iraqi officials and members of the group, the news agency reports that the group is believed to have thousands of fighters and an arsenal of drones, rockets and short-range ballistic missiles. Watch | Three US soldiers killed, 34 injured in drone strike in Jordan However, as per National Counterterrorism Center, Kataib Hezbollah's current overall leader is Ahmad al-Hamidawi. He was named a Specially Designated Global Terrorist in February 2020. Kataib Hezbollah — Ideology Kataib Hezbollah, as per reports is the most powerful armed faction in the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, and also the "most secretive" and elite of Iraq's predominantly Shi'ite militias. According to the US Department of State, Kataib Hezbollah is "a radical Shia Islamist group with an anti-Western establishment and jihadist ideology." On its website, the group states that its first goal "was and still remains: thwarting the American project in the region, defeat of the occupation, and expelling them from Iraq, broken and humbled…. As for our jihadi pillars, there are four. Firstly, waging jihad against the occupation until the last American is expelled from Iraq." Also read | Pentagon vows action after Jordan attack, releases names of 3 soldiers killed as Iran denies involvement It is an umbrella group of hardline Shi'ite armed groups that claimed more than 150 attacks on US forces since the start of the Gaza war. The militant group was designated as a foreign terrorist organisation in July 2009 by the United States. The group reportedly has a transnational Shi'ite ideology and views the borders between Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon as Western constructs. It also considers US troops in Iraq as foreign occupiers and has even called for their forceful expulsion. Kataib Hezbollah is known to have fought alongside other Shi'ite militias against mostly Sunni rebels during Syria's civil war. Ever since that, it has continued to operate in Syria. Kataib Hezbollah, is also known to be a prominent militia within Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). Initially established in 2014 to combat the Islamic State, the PMF has evolved into an officially recognised security force with fighters receiving state salaries. Notably, Kataib Hezbollah members, some of whom are designated as terrorists by the US, hold influential positions in the PMF, reports Reuters. Despite being technically under the command of Iraq's prime minister as part of the PMF, Kataib Hezbollah often operates independently, challenging and defying government directives to cease attacks on US forces. In addition to its military activities, Kataib Hezbollah is believed to have ventured into the political arena. Although the group neither confirms nor denies these political links publicly, it is widely perceived to have formed a political party that participated in the 2021 elections. Remarkably, the group secured several seats in the Iraqi parliament, signalling its expanding influence beyond the realm of armed operations. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Who is Kataib Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group allegedly behind strike on US troops in Jordan?

Israeli forces exchange fire with Lebanese militant group. IDF releases video claims hits on Hezbollah posts along border. Hezbollah hit Israeli naval post along the border. Watch to know more!

Israeli forces exchange fire with Lebanese militant group

<p>Japan has declared its decision to align with a cohort of nations and the suspension of financial support to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>This strategic move follows Israeli accusations that certain UNRWA personnel played a role in the October 7 attack orchestrated by Hamas.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-focus-on-paris-talks-to-broker-two-month-ceasefire-in-gaza-684627">Israel-Hamas war: Focus on Paris talks to broker two-month ceasefire in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Japan suspends aid</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday, Japan said it was "extremely concerned about the alleged involvement of UNRWA staff members in the terror attack on Israel on October 7 last year."</p>

<p>In a statement, the nation's foreign ministry said: "In response, Japan has decided to suspend additional funding to UNRWA for the time being while UNRWA conducts an investigation into the matter and considers measures to address the allegations."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;UNRWA fires staffers suspected of role in October 7 attack on Israel</strong></p>

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<p>"At the same time, Japan will continue to make persistent and active diplomatic efforts to improve the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and to calm down the situation as soon as possible by providing support to other international organizations," added the nation.</p>

<p>Leading contributors such as the United States and Germany have already halted their financial contributions to UNRWA, citing the gravity of the allegations.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UNRWA fires staff</strong></h2>

<p>The UNRWA, which, as per the news agency AFP, is a pivotal player in Gaza's humanitarian landscape, swiftly responded to Israel's unspecified charges by terminating multiple staff members and committing to an exhaustive investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-agency-for-palestinians-slams-shocking-suspension-of-funds-by-several-western-countries-684412">UN agency for Palestinians slams ‘shocking’ suspension of funds by several Western countries</a></strong></p>

<p>Philippe Lazzarini, the head of UNRWA, as per the report, has vowed to hold "accountable, including through criminal prosecution,"&nbsp;any employee found to have been involved in "acts of terror".&nbsp;</p>

<p>UN chief António Guterres has also promised an urgent independent review of UNRWA. He has also pleaded for donor states to "guarantee the continuity" of the agency for the sake of "the desperate populations" it serves.</p>

<p>Israel, however, has vowed to halt UNRWA's operations in Gaza in the aftermath of the conflict.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Japan has declared its decision to align with a cohort of nations and the suspension of financial support to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

Japan has declared its decision to align with a cohort of nations and the suspension of financial support to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This strategic move follows Israeli accusations that certain UNRWA personnel played a role in the October 7 attack orchestrated by Hamas. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Focus on Paris talks to broker two-month ceasefire in Gaza Japan suspends aid On Sunday, Japan said it was "extremely concerned about the alleged involvement of UNRWA staff members in the terror attack on Israel on October 7 last year." In a statement, the nation's foreign ministry said: "In response, Japan has decided to suspend additional funding to UNRWA for the time being while UNRWA conducts an investigation into the matter and considers measures to address the allegations." Watch | UNRWA fires staffers suspected of role in October 7 attack on Israel × "At the same time, Japan will continue to make persistent and active diplomatic efforts to improve the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and to calm down the situation as soon as possible by providing support to other international organizations," added the nation. Leading contributors such as the United States and Germany have already halted their financial contributions to UNRWA, citing the gravity of the allegations. UNRWA fires staff The UNRWA, which, as per the news agency AFP, is a pivotal player in Gaza's humanitarian landscape, swiftly responded to Israel's unspecified charges by terminating multiple staff members and committing to an exhaustive investigation. Also read | UN agency for Palestinians slams ‘shocking’ suspension of funds by several Western countries Philippe Lazzarini, the head of UNRWA, as per the report, has vowed to hold "accountable, including through criminal prosecution," any employee found to have been involved in "acts of terror". UN chief António Guterres has also promised an urgent independent review of UNRWA. He has also pleaded for donor states to "guarantee the continuity" of the agency for the sake of "the desperate populations" it serves. Israel, however, has vowed to halt UNRWA's operations in Gaza in the aftermath of the conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan suspends aid to UN agency in Gaza over staff involvement in Oct 7 terror attack on Israel

<p>Debutants Tajikistan sealed a place in the knockout rounds of the Asian Cup on Monday with a battling 2-1 win over 10-man Lebanon that included three lovely goals and another two strikes ruled out by VAR.</p>

<p>China's 1-0 loss to hosts Qatar meant Tajikistan went through in second place from Group A on a night of drama.</p>

<p>Before the third and final round of games, holders Qatar were the only team to have scored a goal in the group, and any of the other three had a shot at finishing behind them in second.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sania-mirza-sought-divorce-from-shoaib-malik-because-she-was-unhappy-with-him-meeting-other-women-report-682340">Sania Mirza sought divorce from Shoaib Malik because she was 'unhappy with him meeting other women': Report</a></p>

<p>In a stadium festooned with their cedar-tree flags, Lebanon took control of the game early, launching repeated attacks but finding no more penetration than they had in their previous two games.</p>

<p>Tajikistan were mostly restricted to shots from outside the box until the stroke of half time, when midfielder Mabatshoev Shervoni slalomed into the Lebanon area, his attempted cross taking a huge deflection off Lebanon's Robert Melki to loop over the wrong-footed goalkeeper and into the net.</p>

<p>But Tajik celebrations were cut short when the referee ruled the goal out for the tightest of offsides.</p>

<p>Their misery was compounded almost immediately after the restart when Bangkok United forward Bassel Jradi arched in a delicious strike from the edge of the area and inside the far post.</p>

<p>But Lebanon soon had a man sent off when a VAR check upgraded Kassem El Zein's yellow card -- for a studs-up, over-the-ball tackle -- to a red.</p>

<p>With a man advantage, Tajikistan camped out in the opposition half, and as the 70th minute approached they once again thought they had scored.</p>

<p>But Alisher Dzhalilov's goal was scratched off, again for a cruelly slender offside.</p>

<p>When their equaliser did finally arrive, there could be no doubt, Parvizdzhon Umarbaev topping Jradi's strike with a curling free kick to bring stunned silence to the Jassim Bin Hamid Stadium.</p>

<p>As things stood the Tajiks were going through in second, but they continued to push for a winner.</p>

<p>No sooner had the fourth official signalled a whopping 16 minutes of added time, than they got it, substitute Nuriddin Khamrokulov flicking a delicate backwards header over goalkeeper Mostafa Matar.</p>

<p>Lebanon's Hilal El-Helwe had a chance to pull one back, at the death, but shot wide as they exited the tournament.</p>


Debutants Tajikistan sealed a place in the knockout rounds of the Asian Cup on Monday with a battling 2-1 win over 10-man Lebanon that included three lovely goals and another two strikes ruled out by VAR.

Debutants Tajikistan sealed a place in the knockout rounds of the Asian Cup on Monday with a battling 2-1 win over 10-man Lebanon that included three lovely goals and another two strikes ruled out by VAR. China's 1-0 loss to hosts Qatar meant Tajikistan went through in second place from Group A on a night of drama. Before the third and final round of games, holders Qatar were the only team to have scored a goal in the group, and any of the other three had a shot at finishing behind them in second. Also Read: Sania Mirza sought divorce from Shoaib Malik because she was 'unhappy with him meeting other women': Report In a stadium festooned with their cedar-tree flags, Lebanon took control of the game early, launching repeated attacks but finding no more penetration than they had in their previous two games. Tajikistan were mostly restricted to shots from outside the box until the stroke of half time, when midfielder Mabatshoev Shervoni slalomed into the Lebanon area, his attempted cross taking a huge deflection off Lebanon's Robert Melki to loop over the wrong-footed goalkeeper and into the net. But Tajik celebrations were cut short when the referee ruled the goal out for the tightest of offsides. Their misery was compounded almost immediately after the restart when Bangkok United forward Bassel Jradi arched in a delicious strike from the edge of the area and inside the far post. But Lebanon soon had a man sent off when a VAR check upgraded Kassem El Zein's yellow card -- for a studs-up, over-the-ball tackle -- to a red. With a man advantage, Tajikistan camped out in the opposition half, and as the 70th minute approached they once again thought they had scored. But Alisher Dzhalilov's goal was scratched off, again for a cruelly slender offside. When their equaliser did finally arrive, there could be no doubt, Parvizdzhon Umarbaev topping Jradi's strike with a curling free kick to bring stunned silence to the Jassim Bin Hamid Stadium. As things stood the Tajiks were going through in second, but they continued to push for a winner. No sooner had the fourth official signalled a whopping 16 minutes of added time, than they got it, substitute Nuriddin Khamrokulov flicking a delicate backwards header over goalkeeper Mostafa Matar. Lebanon's Hilal El-Helwe had a chance to pull one back, at the death, but shot wide as they exited the tournament.

Asian Cup: Debutant Tajikistan seal knockout berth with win over 10-man Lebanon

Fresh missile, drone strikes at Israel-Lebanon border. Netanyahu government urges for long-term deal with Hezbollah. Watch to know more!

Israel warns of escalation on Lebanon border

Another warfront for Israel? 'Likelihood' of Israel-Hezbollah war 'much higher says Israel. Israel & Lebanon tensions escalate as IDF shifts focus from Gaza to Lebanon, West Bank. Watch to know more!

Israel & Lebanon tensions escalate as IDF shifts focus from Gaza to Lebanon

Latest in Israel-Hamas war: Israeli forces have begun to scale back war. Hezbollah commander killed in Israeli strike. Israeli strikes kill 3 in Rafah. Watch the video to know more!

Israel evacuates military ops in Lebanon; IDF shifts focus from Gaza to Lebanon

<p>Yemen's Houthi rebels on Sunday (Jan 14) reported fresh strikes that hit the port city of Hodeida, condemning the United States and Britain for targeted attacks.</p>

<p>However, the United States denied the reports saying no coalition strike was conducted by Washington and London today.</p>

<p>A US defence official speaking on condition of anonymity said, "No US or coalition strike occurred today."</p>

<p>The Iran-backed rebel group's website had earlier said that “air strikes from the American-British aggression hit Hodeida.”</p>

<p>The website, citing a security source, said that the strikes hit the Jabal Jada area in the Al-Luhaya district of Hodeida governorate, which is situated on Yemen's Red Sea coast.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Biden says US sent private message to Iran about Houthi attacks</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United States and British forces on Friday (Jan 12) launched strikes in retaliation to the attacks by Houthi rebels on Red Sea shipping vessels which are linked to Israel.</p>

<p>The rebels claim that their attacks are aimed at showing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthis-say-strikes-will-not-go-unpunished-or-unanswered-679470">Yemen's Houthis say strikes will not go 'unpunished or unanswered'</a></p>

<h2><strong>'Security of all shipping harmed after US strikes on Yemen', says Hezbollah</strong></h2>

<p>The Hezbollah group on Sunday said that the United States was mistaken if it assumed that the Houthis would cease confronting Israel in the Red Sea, further stating that the US actions there would jeopardize the safety of all marine navigation.</p>

<p>“If (US President) Biden and those with him think the Yemenis will stop supporting Gaza in the Red Sea, they are wrong and ignorant. They don’t know Yemen, its people and its leadership and its history. They don’t know anything,” Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah</p>

<p>Dubbing the coalition strikes by the US and Britain as "an act of stupidity", Nasrallah said the Houthis would continue targeting ships belonging to Israel and going to its ports.</p>

<p>"The more dangerous thing is what the Americans did in the Red Sea will harm the security of all maritime navigation, even the ships that are not going to Palestine, even the ships which are not Israeli, even the ships that have nothing to do with the matter because the sea has become a theatre of fighting, missiles, drones and warships," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Yemen's Houthi rebels on Sunday (Jan 14) reported fresh strikes that hit the port city of Hodeida, condemning the United States and Britain for targeted attacks.

Yemen's Houthi rebels on Sunday (Jan 14) reported fresh strikes that hit the port city of Hodeida, condemning the United States and Britain for targeted attacks. However, the United States denied the reports saying no coalition strike was conducted by Washington and London today. A US defence official speaking on condition of anonymity said, "No US or coalition strike occurred today." The Iran-backed rebel group's website had earlier said that “air strikes from the American-British aggression hit Hodeida.” The website, citing a security source, said that the strikes hit the Jabal Jada area in the Al-Luhaya district of Hodeida governorate, which is situated on Yemen's Red Sea coast. WATCH | Biden says US sent private message to Iran about Houthi attacks × The United States and British forces on Friday (Jan 12) launched strikes in retaliation to the attacks by Houthi rebels on Red Sea shipping vessels which are linked to Israel. The rebels claim that their attacks are aimed at showing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Also read: Yemen's Houthis say strikes will not go 'unpunished or unanswered' 'Security of all shipping harmed after US strikes on Yemen', says Hezbollah The Hezbollah group on Sunday said that the United States was mistaken if it assumed that the Houthis would cease confronting Israel in the Red Sea, further stating that the US actions there would jeopardize the safety of all marine navigation. “If (US President) Biden and those with him think the Yemenis will stop supporting Gaza in the Red Sea, they are wrong and ignorant. They don’t know Yemen, its people and its leadership and its history. They don’t know anything,” Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah Dubbing the coalition strikes by the US and Britain as "an act of stupidity", Nasrallah said the Houthis would continue targeting ships belonging to Israel and going to its ports. "The more dangerous thing is what the Americans did in the Red Sea will harm the security of all maritime navigation, even the ships that are not going to Palestine, even the ships which are not Israeli, even the ships that have nothing to do with the matter because the sea has become a theatre of fighting, missiles, drones and warships," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Houthis claim fresh strikes hit port city of Yemen; US denies new attacks

Israel-Hamas War reached a grim milestone of 100 days on Sunday with more civilian deaths in Gaza and relatives of dozens of hostages still awaiting their freedom from the war.

Israel-Hamas war | Israelis pay tribute to hostages still held in Gaza

<p>US President Joe Biden&nbsp;has come under fire for carrying out strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. The strikes, which were carried out without congressional approval, have earned the ire of Biden's fellow democrats who said that the action was "unconstitutional" and that he "needs to come to Congress" before launching a strike.</p>

<p>The American President was also slammed on social media as people dug out an old post he made on Twitter, now known as X, in which he promised to use "military power responsibly".</p>

<h2><strong>Biden Administration defends move</strong></h2>

<p>The strike, which were made in collaboration with the United Kingdom comes&nbsp;after a series of Houthi drone and missile strikes on commercial ships in the Red Sea.</p>

<p>Calling the strikes a "defensive action" Biden, as per AFP, said he "will not hesitate" to order further military action if needed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-uk-launch-massive-strike-against-houthi-rebels-in-yemen-679159">US and UK launch massive strikes against Houthi rebels, 5 killed</a></strong></p>

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak too called the strikes "necessary and proportionate" and said that the Houthis' breach of international law merited a "strong signal" in response.</p>

<p>"People can't act like this with impunity," said Sunak, adding the Houthi attacks were "disrupting the global economy"</p>

<h2><strong>Democrats criticise Biden</strong></h2>

<p>Indian American lawmaker Ro Khanna in a post on X slammed Biden and said: "The President needs to come to Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving us in another Middle East conflict. That is Article I of the Constitution. I will stand up for that regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican is in the White House."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The President needs to come to Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving us in another middle east conflict. That is Article I of the Constitution. I will stand up for that regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican is in the White House.</p>
— Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoKhanna/status/1745590169493745693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Section 2C of the War Powers Act is clear: POTUS may only introduce the U.S. into hostilities after Congressional authorization or in a national emergency when the U.S. is under imminent attack. Reporting is not a substitute. This is a retaliatory, offensive strike," he added in another post.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-external-affairs-minister-jaishankar-to-visit-iran-on-jan-15-679396">India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to visit Iran on Jan 15</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The President needs to come to Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving us in another middle east conflict. That is Article I of the Constitution. I will stand up for that regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican is in the White House.</p>
— Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoKhanna/status/1745590169493745693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Echoing Khanna's sentiments, Justin Amash, a member of the Libertarian part said: "If President Biden had enough time to form a multinational coalition to plan and conduct strikes in Yemen, then he had enough time to seek and obtain an authorization from Congress as our Constitution requires."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If President Biden had enough time to form a multinational coalition to plan and conduct strikes in Yemen, then he had enough time to seek and obtain an authorization from Congress as our Constitution requires.<br />
<br />
Without this authorization, any nondefensive military action is…</p>
— Justin Amash (@justinamash) <a href="https://twitter.com/justinamash/status/1745633418946240640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Netizens troll Biden</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, X users&nbsp;trolled Biden over a post he made&nbsp;during the 2020 Presidential campaign. Biden during the campaign had&nbsp;said,&nbsp;"As President, I will use military power responsibly and as a last resort. We will not go back to forever wars in the Middle East."</p>

<p>Digging up the old post, users poked fun at the US president. One user commented, "Well the lie detector determined that was a lie".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well the lie detector determined that was a lie</p>
— The Big Nachoski (@BigNachoski) <a href="https://twitter.com/BigNachoski/status/1745632578206658930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Dementia?" questioned another, while a third user labelled it "a joke".</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Biden: UK, US successfully struck Houthi targets in Yemen</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/biden-uk-us-successfully-struck-houthi-targets-in-yemen-679360/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"This didn’t age well," pointed out another user, "We don’t owe Israel anything," said&nbsp;another X user.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Then please stop giving my tax dollars to Israel! You are funding a forever war against Palestine. WWII ended in 1945. Haven’t we worked through our American guilt for not taking Jewish refugees during the war? We don’t owe Israel anything. Sanctions, not cash, for them.</p>
— Meidas Cathy 🕊️🇺🇦🇵🇸 (@OldGinger) <a href="https://twitter.com/OldGinger/status/1745628318462833022?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US President Joe Biden has come under fire for carrying out strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. The strikes, which were carried out without congressional approval, have earned the ire of Biden's fellow democrats who said that the action was "unconstitutional" and that he "needs to come to Congress" before launching a strike.

US President Joe Biden has come under fire for carrying out strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. The strikes, which were carried out without congressional approval, have earned the ire of Biden's fellow democrats who said that the action was "unconstitutional" and that he "needs to come to Congress" before launching a strike. The American President was also slammed on social media as people dug out an old post he made on Twitter, now known as X, in which he promised to use "military power responsibly". Biden Administration defends move The strike, which were made in collaboration with the United Kingdom comes after a series of Houthi drone and missile strikes on commercial ships in the Red Sea. Calling the strikes a "defensive action" Biden, as per AFP, said he "will not hesitate" to order further military action if needed. Also read | US and UK launch massive strikes against Houthi rebels, 5 killed UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak too called the strikes "necessary and proportionate" and said that the Houthis' breach of international law merited a "strong signal" in response. "People can't act like this with impunity," said Sunak, adding the Houthi attacks were "disrupting the global economy" Democrats criticise Biden Indian American lawmaker Ro Khanna in a post on X slammed Biden and said: "The President needs to come to Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving us in another Middle East conflict. That is Article I of the Constitution. I will stand up for that regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican is in the White House." The President needs to come to Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving us in another middle east conflict. That is Article I of the Constitution. I will stand up for that regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican is in the White House. — Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) January 11, 2024 × "Section 2C of the War Powers Act is clear: POTUS may only introduce the U.S. into hostilities after Congressional authorization or in a national emergency when the U.S. is under imminent attack. Reporting is not a substitute. This is a retaliatory, offensive strike," he added in another post. Also read | India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to visit Iran on Jan 15 The President needs to come to Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving us in another middle east conflict. That is Article I of the Constitution. I will stand up for that regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican is in the White House. — Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) January 11, 2024 × Echoing Khanna's sentiments, Justin Amash, a member of the Libertarian part said: "If President Biden had enough time to form a multinational coalition to plan and conduct strikes in Yemen, then he had enough time to seek and obtain an authorization from Congress as our Constitution requires." If President Biden had enough time to form a multinational coalition to plan and conduct strikes in Yemen, then he had enough time to seek and obtain an authorization from Congress as our Constitution requires. Without this authorization, any nondefensive military action is… — Justin Amash (@justinamash) January 12, 2024 × Netizens troll Biden Meanwhile, X users trolled Biden over a post he made during the 2020 Presidential campaign. Biden during the campaign had said, "As President, I will use military power responsibly and as a last resort. We will not go back to forever wars in the Middle East." Digging up the old post, users poked fun at the US president. One user commented, "Well the lie detector determined that was a lie". Well the lie detector determined that was a lie — The Big Nachoski (@BigNachoski) January 12, 2024 × "Dementia?" questioned another, while a third user labelled it "a joke". Watch | Biden: UK, US successfully struck Houthi targets in Yemen "This didn’t age well," pointed out another user, "We don’t owe Israel anything," said another X user. Then please stop giving my tax dollars to Israel! You are funding a forever war against Palestine. WWII ended in 1945. Haven’t we worked through our American guilt for not taking Jewish refugees during the war? We don’t owe Israel anything. Sanctions, not cash, for them. — Meidas Cathy 🕊️🇺🇦🇵🇸 (@OldGinger) January 12, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Biden's 'defensive action' against Houthis in Yemen earns him Democratic ire and trolling on X

<p>India at the United Nations General Assembly strongly condemned the rising civilian casualties of the Israel-Hamas war and said that the alarming humanitarian crisis was "clearly unacceptable".</p>

<p>Speaking at the UNGA meeting on Tuesday, India's permanent representative to the United Nations, Ruchira Kamboj said, "The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has led to a large-scale loss of civilian lives, especially women and children, and has resulted in an alarming humanitarian crisis."</p>

<p>"This is clearly unacceptable, and we have strongly condemned the deaths of civilians," added the Indian envoy.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-thwarts-24-missiles-and-drones-launched-by-houthi-rebels-from-yemen-678400">US thwarts 24 missiles and drones launched by Houthi rebels from Yemen</a></strong></p>

<p>She also acknowledged that the "immediate trigger" for Israel's strikes on Gaza "were the terror attacks in Israel on October 7, which were shocking and deserve our unequivocal condemnation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India has a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism," added Kamboj, as reported by PTI.</p>

<h2><strong>India calls for immediate release of hostages</strong></h2>

<p>Calling for the immediate release of hostages, Kamboj said the leadership of India is in constant touch with the region's leaders — including Palestine and Israel.&nbsp;Addressing the 193-member UNGA, Kamboj also highlighted her nation's continuous efforts to de-escalate the situation and extend humanitarian aid to Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-blinken-tells-netanyahu-to-avoid-further-civilian-harm-in-gaza-678383">Israel-Hamas war: Blinken tells Netanyahu to avoid 'further civilian harm' in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<p>"India has so far provided 70 tonnes of humanitarian aid, including 16.5 tonnes of medicine and medical supplies in two tranches, to the people of Palestine. We've also provided us dollars 5 million, including the USD 2.5 million we provided in end December 2023 to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees in the Near east, which will go to support the agency's core programs and services, including education, health care, relief and social services provided to Palestinian refugees,"&nbsp;said India's permanent envoy to the UN.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India has provided 70 tons of humanitarian aid including 16.5 tons of medicines to people of Palestine says Indian Envoy to UN <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaUNNewYork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaUNNewYork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ruchirakamboj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ruchirakamboj</a>; Points,'Its important to prevent escalation..' <a href="https://t.co/xPfcOmZ8Ow">pic.twitter.com/xPfcOmZ8Ow</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1744913577650401440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Two-state solution has India's support</strong></h2>

<p>Voicing India's support for the two-state solution, Kamboj said it can only be achieved "through direct and meaningful negotiations between both sides."</p>

<p>"The message that India has conveyed since the start of this conflict is clear and consistent. It is important to prevent escalation, to ensure continued delivery of humanitarian aid, and to work towards an early restoration of peace and stability. A peaceful resolution of the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy is the only way forward," she said.</p>

<p>"By reaffirming India's firm commitment to achieving a just, peaceful and lasting solution to the Israel-Palestine issue. We firmly believe that only a two-state solution achieved through direct and meaningful negotiations between both sides on final status issues, will deliver an enduring peace that the people of Israel and Palestine desire and deserve. For this, we urge the parties to de-escalate, eschew violence and work towards creating conditions for an early resumption of direct peace negotiations," added Kamboj.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India at the United Nations General Assembly strongly condemned the rising civilian casualties of the Israel-Hamas war and said that the alarming humanitarian crisis was "clearly unacceptable".

India at the United Nations General Assembly strongly condemned the rising civilian casualties of the Israel-Hamas war and said that the alarming humanitarian crisis was "clearly unacceptable". Speaking at the UNGA meeting on Tuesday, India's permanent representative to the United Nations, Ruchira Kamboj said, "The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has led to a large-scale loss of civilian lives, especially women and children, and has resulted in an alarming humanitarian crisis." "This is clearly unacceptable, and we have strongly condemned the deaths of civilians," added the Indian envoy. Also read | US thwarts 24 missiles and drones launched by Houthi rebels from Yemen She also acknowledged that the "immediate trigger" for Israel's strikes on Gaza "were the terror attacks in Israel on October 7, which were shocking and deserve our unequivocal condemnation." "India has a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism," added Kamboj, as reported by PTI. India calls for immediate release of hostages Calling for the immediate release of hostages, Kamboj said the leadership of India is in constant touch with the region's leaders — including Palestine and Israel. Addressing the 193-member UNGA, Kamboj also highlighted her nation's continuous efforts to de-escalate the situation and extend humanitarian aid to Gaza. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Blinken tells Netanyahu to avoid 'further civilian harm' in Gaza "India has so far provided 70 tonnes of humanitarian aid, including 16.5 tonnes of medicine and medical supplies in two tranches, to the people of Palestine. We've also provided us dollars 5 million, including the USD 2.5 million we provided in end December 2023 to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees in the Near east, which will go to support the agency's core programs and services, including education, health care, relief and social services provided to Palestinian refugees," said India's permanent envoy to the UN. India has provided 70 tons of humanitarian aid including 16.5 tons of medicines to people of Palestine says Indian Envoy to UN @IndiaUNNewYork @ruchirakamboj; Points,'Its important to prevent escalation..' pic.twitter.com/xPfcOmZ8Ow — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 10, 2024 × Two-state solution has India's support Voicing India's support for the two-state solution, Kamboj said it can only be achieved "through direct and meaningful negotiations between both sides." "The message that India has conveyed since the start of this conflict is clear and consistent. It is important to prevent escalation, to ensure continued delivery of humanitarian aid, and to work towards an early restoration of peace and stability. A peaceful resolution of the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy is the only way forward," she said. "By reaffirming India's firm commitment to achieving a just, peaceful and lasting solution to the Israel-Palestine issue. We firmly believe that only a two-state solution achieved through direct and meaningful negotiations between both sides on final status issues, will deliver an enduring peace that the people of Israel and Palestine desire and deserve. For this, we urge the parties to de-escalate, eschew violence and work towards creating conditions for an early resumption of direct peace negotiations," added Kamboj. (With inputs from agencies)

'Clearly unacceptable': India condemns Israel-Hamas war's rising civilian death toll, calls for de-escalation

<p>The US and the UK on Tuesday (Jan 9)&nbsp;shot down 21 missiles and drones launched by Houthi rebels from Yemen. The attack, as per reports, was one of the largest Houthi attacks to take place in the Red Sea in recent months.</p>

<p>Quoting two US defence officials,&nbsp;CNN had reported that the attack consisted of 24 missiles and drones. It also said that initial assessments indicate no harm to ships and no injuries or casualties resulting from the extensive drone and missile barrage.</p>

<p>As per a US Central Command (CENTCOM) statement "Iranian-backed Houthis launched a complex attack of Iranian designed one-way attack UAVs..., anti-ship cruise missiles, and an anti-ship ballistic missile from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen into the Southern Red Sea."</p>

<p>It further said that the drones and missiles were downed by a combination of F/A-18 warplanes operating from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier and one British and three American destroyers.</p>

<h2><strong>How the US carried out the strike</strong></h2>

<p>The US deployed three destroyers to counter and eliminate the imminent threats, said one official.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We can confirm a Houthi attack occurred today near the southern Red Sea. We’ll provide additional details when they’re available," said a third official, as quoted by CNN.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-blinken-tells-netanyahu-to-avoid-further-civilian-harm-in-gaza-678383">Israel-Hamas war: Blinken tells Netanyahu to avoid 'further civilian harm' in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<p>As a key participant in Operation Prosperity Guardian, the United States has a number of ships in the Red Sea. The operation, a multinational endeavour, has more than 20 nations collaborating to safeguard shipping in one of the world's most critical waterways.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This incident unfolds against the backdrop of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's diplomatic mission to the Middle East, where he is actively engaging&nbsp;in de-escalation efforts related to the Gaza conflict.</p>

<p>In Israel on Tuesday, Blinken told officials that Palestinians in Gaza must be allowed to return to their homes "as soon as conditions allow."</p>

<h2><strong>Act of solidarity?</strong></h2>

<p>The Houthi rebels, aligning themselves with Iran, have said that their missile and drone launches are symbolic acts of solidarity with the Palestinian people. Initial attacks, soon after the start of the Israel-Hamas war, targeted vessels with connections to Israel. However, since then, as per Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of the US Naval Central Command, most of the last dozen attacks had no connection to Israel at all.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-biden-interrupted-by-pro-palestinian-supporters-calling-for-ceasefire-in-gaza-678170">WATCH | Biden's speech interrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters calling for ceasefire in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<p>"The impact of these attacks spreads across the globe, and as we’ve said, this is an international problem that requires an international solution," he said.</p>

<p>According to the US assessment, around 55 nations have direct connections to the attacked vessels.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The US and the UK on Tuesday (Jan 9) shot down 21 missiles and drones launched by Houthi rebels from Yemen. The attack, as per reports, was one of the largest Houthi attacks to take place in the Red Sea in recent months.

The US and the UK on Tuesday (Jan 9) shot down 21 missiles and drones launched by Houthi rebels from Yemen. The attack, as per reports, was one of the largest Houthi attacks to take place in the Red Sea in recent months. Quoting two US defence officials, CNN had reported that the attack consisted of 24 missiles and drones. It also said that initial assessments indicate no harm to ships and no injuries or casualties resulting from the extensive drone and missile barrage. As per a US Central Command (CENTCOM) statement "Iranian-backed Houthis launched a complex attack of Iranian designed one-way attack UAVs..., anti-ship cruise missiles, and an anti-ship ballistic missile from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen into the Southern Red Sea." It further said that the drones and missiles were downed by a combination of F/A-18 warplanes operating from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier and one British and three American destroyers. How the US carried out the strike The US deployed three destroyers to counter and eliminate the imminent threats, said one official. "We can confirm a Houthi attack occurred today near the southern Red Sea. We’ll provide additional details when they’re available," said a third official, as quoted by CNN. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Blinken tells Netanyahu to avoid 'further civilian harm' in Gaza As a key participant in Operation Prosperity Guardian, the United States has a number of ships in the Red Sea. The operation, a multinational endeavour, has more than 20 nations collaborating to safeguard shipping in one of the world's most critical waterways. This incident unfolds against the backdrop of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's diplomatic mission to the Middle East, where he is actively engaging in de-escalation efforts related to the Gaza conflict. In Israel on Tuesday, Blinken told officials that Palestinians in Gaza must be allowed to return to their homes "as soon as conditions allow." Act of solidarity? The Houthi rebels, aligning themselves with Iran, have said that their missile and drone launches are symbolic acts of solidarity with the Palestinian people. Initial attacks, soon after the start of the Israel-Hamas war, targeted vessels with connections to Israel. However, since then, as per Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of the US Naval Central Command, most of the last dozen attacks had no connection to Israel at all. Also read | WATCH | Biden's speech interrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters calling for ceasefire in Gaza "The impact of these attacks spreads across the globe, and as we’ve said, this is an international problem that requires an international solution," he said. According to the US assessment, around 55 nations have direct connections to the attacked vessels. (With inputs from agencies)

US and UK thwart 21 missiles and drones launched by Houthi rebels from Yemen

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Air raid sirens sounded across northern Israel on Saturday as Lebanon's Iranian-backed Hezbollah group said it fired rockets at Israel, and Israel said it struck a "terrorist cell" in retaliation, as top U.S. and EU diplomats visited the region seeking to keep the war from spreading.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel & Hezbollah trade fire across Lebanon border

Reports say, Gaza has turned into a testing ground for Israel's defence startups. They're launching tailor-made weapons for Israel's offensive in the Gaza strip. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas | Has Gaza turned into a testing ground for Israeli defence firms?

After the killing of Hamas's number two commander in an alleged Israeli strike in Lebanon Beirut many in Israel are worried about the repercussions. The biggest being the likely disruption in future hostage release negotiations. In a bid to quell increasing Israel-Lebanon tensions, the US is once again sending senior officials to West Asia.

Israel-Hamas war | West Asia: Israel stares at wider conflict

Senior Hamas official Saleh al-Arouri was killed on Tuesday night in an Israeli drone strike on Beirut's southern suburbs of Dahiyeh. As per reports, the Israeli military said it does not respond to reports in the foreign media. Arouri was a senior official in Hamas's politburo but was known to be deeply involved in its military affairs.

Israel-Hamas War: Israel strikes Hamas office in Beirut, kills senior Hamas official

According to reports, an Israeli drone strike hit Beirut's southern suburb. The explosion shook Beirut's southern suburb of Musharafieh. UN urges 'maximum restraint' as Beirut blast kills Hamas leader.

Israel-Hamas War: At least 7 people killed in suspected Israeli strike in Beirut

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