The crisis is unfolding in the Middle East. As concerns mount over attacks by Iran-backed groups. In this crucial time, the U.S. military is taking new steps to protect its troops in the Middle East.

How is the US military stepping up Middle East surveillance?

Lebanon's ambassador to India Dr Rabie Narsh termed the ongoing situation in West Asia as "tense" &amp; "volatile". In an exclusive interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, he said, "Situation in the region is like the a race between diplomacy and war and we hope that diplomacy will win."

Over 1400 Israelis and 5,000 plus Palestinians have died in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war that started earlier this month putting the region on tenterhooks.

Diplomatic efforts are on, including those led by US and Egypt to de-escalate the situation but so far the situation remains concerning.&nbsp;

Asked about the Lebanon-Israel border situation, the ambassador said, "We have always been calling for a peaceful solution to the conflict. We have experienced war and we know what war means. We know the devastating repercussions of any war. It's not a cakewalk, and the Israeli side should also know the same because it will impact not only Lebanon but all the regions and would affect Israel badly." &nbsp;The worry remains for Lebanon as several countries have asked their nationals to leave the country.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-is-israel-putting-gazas-ground-invasion-on-back-burner-651079">Explained: Why is Israel putting Gaza's ground invasion on back-burner?</a>

He welcomed India's stance on the ongoing situation, explaining, "India has a historic friendship with the Arab world, particularly they are strong supporters to the Palestinian cause. And also they have a friendly relationship with Israel. So that's why India is entitled and they are, I mean, qualified and they are doing a great job and playing a great role in this conflict."

Here's the complete interview

WION: What is Lebanon making of the ongoing situation? We have seen the attack by Hamas and then the retaliation by Israel. So what's your government's position on the development?

Dr Rabie Narsh: The situation is really worrisome and quite tense. But let me say something, let me start with putting, calling the things by their right names. The situation did not start on October the seventh with the Hamas attack. The situation started a long time before that. Started with the occupation of the of Israel to the Palestinian lands and since putting 2.5 million Palestinians in the biggest open prison in the world. So of course, as you asked me about Lebanon's position, of course, we are calling for peace. We have always called for a peaceful solution to the problem. It is Israel who refused and kept on refusing all initiatives or peace initiatives. So, Lebanon's position is very well known. We are against escalation, &nbsp;against war, against attacking civilians, but we have to be firm and we have to see the root cause of the situation, which is the occupation, the Israeli occupation of the Arab lands.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/captive-hamas-militant-reveals-10k-reward-an-apartment-were-on-offer-to-lure-them-into-bringing-hostages-651077">Captive Hamas militant reveals $10K reward &amp; an apartment were on offer to lure them into bringing hostages</a>

WION: As&nbsp;you mentioned the situation of the civilians, will you term the attack by Hamas a terror attack? Will you condemn the attack.&nbsp;

Dr Rabie Narsh:&nbsp;This actually... this mindset of asking the host to condemn. Well, like I said, I mean, this mindset has to change. It's not about condemning. If you want to condemn, of course, yes, I told you we condemn all civilian casualties, we condemn killing civilians. But let's be fair and condemn, I assume you condemn Israel's attack on civilians. Israel's occupation is the cause, and what all Palestinians and every act of resistance is the retaliation, is the reaction. So yes, I condemn civilian killing, but in this sense, I condemn in the strongest terms Israel's ethnic cleansing of the Gaza Strip. I condemn the carpet bombing, the leveling of whole villages and whole neighbourhoods to the ground, of bombing hospitals. You have seen al-Ahli hospital and other hospitals... of bombing schools... of targeting civilian infrastructures. Yes, of course, we do condemn this.

WION: How&nbsp;is Lebanon reaching out to the people of Palestine? You mentioned the situation in Gaza... are you sending some kind of humanitarian aid as well, to the people of Gaza impacted by the Israeli bombings?

Dr Rabie Narsh: &nbsp;Notwithstanding the dire economic situation that Lebanon currently is going through. But how could we send it? I mean we have no direct channel and Israel has a complete seal off of the Palestinian territories. So it is not to my knowledge that we are sending some humanitarian aid but of course, we are contributors to the international agencies like UNRWA, who helped the Palestinian refugees. Of course, we do. We have to see something so that we can understand the bigger situation, the bigger picture, and the societies in that region. The Arab societies are so interrelated. So there are relatives everywhere. That's why I mean when an attack happened on the Palestinians, maybe the Arabs in Algeria, they get hurt. I mean, like here in India, you know, we are one country, so if something happened to the in South India, here in North India, you feel sorry for that and you feel like you are concerned. So that's why I mean, the attack of Israel, of course, concerned us.

WION: Your country, it looks like will be impacted, we have seen several advisories. Do you see this situation as a worrisome situation?

Dr Rabie Narsh: This is only normal in times of war, in terms of words, we see all the foreign embassies. They call for nationals to be careful or to leave that country or not to visit that country, which is being attacked or under the threat of being attacked. So yes, I mean, it's normal, plus because I think the ambassadors, the foreign ambassadors in Lebanon, they know well that Israel is a real threat and when they say we might attack Lebanon, they can. Because we have been subjected to Israeli attacks for a long time. And many times they bombed Lebanon and they attacked. So Israeli aggression is quite a fact. And yeah, I think I understand the foreign embassies calling on the nationals to be careful or leave, unfortunately, but yeah, that's I mean, because I think they know the Israeli intention.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-hope-rises-among-kin-of-hostages-649904">Israel-Palestine war: Hope rises among kin of hostages</a>

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WION: Now, we saw the comments coming from Israel, they have said that Hezbollah is firing into Israeli territory, and there might be a second front that might open, in Israel's north. They have also said that there could be a second Israel-Lebanon War. What do you make out of these comments?

Dr Rabie Narsh: &nbsp;It's not true that Hezbollah has initiated any attack against Israel. Hezbollah has been in defensive mode. Of course, I have told you the relation and interrelated societies, so yeah, despite the fact that anybody in Lebanon or in the Arab world feels that they are concerned about the Israeli attacks on the Palestinians. Despite that fact, Hezbollah didn't retaliate. Of course, now there is some exchange of fires. Hezbollah mainly attacks Israeli posts but on the occupied territories of Lebanon. I mean, there are talks to keep the situation under control and not to get spilled into an all-out war.

WION: You mentioned about the talks... talks between which side?&nbsp;

Dr Rabie Narsh: &nbsp;Lebanon's government is in talks with the Syrians, Iranians, Saudi Arabia, and the United States. I mean, of course, there are diplomatic talks. The situation in the region is like a race between diplomacy and war. And we hope that diplomacy will win.

WION: Do you think that the situation can escalate very fast?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Given the fact that our neighbour, the occupying force of Israel is, you know, armed to the teeth, they have weapons of mass destruction, they have nuclear weapons, and they have the intention of aggression. So yes, given these facts, so yeah, we are afraid that the situation might escalate, but no one knows which is the threshold... the trigger point of all-out war. So we're afraid of the escalation of the situation in Gaza, the number of casualties and you know that the numbers and the numbers of casualties, really something very worrisome. It's beyond imagination. So far more than 6,000 Palestinians have been killed. Half of them are children and women. So yeah, I mean, no one guarantees that the situation will not escalate. But as I said, the initiatives and the talks are there, and hopefully, things will abate and the situation will be controlled.

WION: So particularly talking about the situation in the southern part of your country, southern Lebanon, what is the situation like?

Dr Rabie Narsh: &nbsp;Of course, the situation is quite tense. As I said, quite tense, worrisome, volatile. It's the people who are afraid because as I said, again, they have experienced Israeli aggression and yeah, of course, they are afraid of being the targets of Israel. In 2006, Israel attacked at United Nations complex. So yes, we're afraid, people in south Lebanon, and not only in southern Lebanon, also in Lebanon and the neighbouring region. I mean, the whole region is worried about the escalation.

WION: Are there any&nbsp;casualties in southern Lebanon?&nbsp;

Dr Rabie Narsh: Yeah, we have suffered casualties. We have one journalist unfortunately killed by the Israeli direct attack and we also have civilians of course.

WION: There is the presence of the UN peacekeeping mission as well and there is the presence of the Indian peacekeepers as well as how safe they are. And the role played by the UN peacekeepers... if you can perhaps talk about?

Dr Rabie Narsh: As&nbsp;I said the Israelis attacked a UN complex in 2006 and by the way India participates in the UNFIL-United Nations interim forces for peacekeeping forces in Lebanon, and India has a big contingent, about 900 soldiers, doing peacekeeping. They are playing, of course, a great role in defusing the tension and to contact - indirect talks between the Lebanese army and the Israeli side.

WION: We have seen a lot of mention of Hezbollah. What's the role of Hezbollah in terms of the ongoing situation, if you can talk about that? Because we all know that the Israeli side has said that because the Hezbollah the situation is escalating. Many say it's Hezbollah and Iran working in that part of Lebanon, that is escalating the situation. What is the exact situation?&nbsp;

Dr Rabie Narsh: Well, Hezbollah is the Lebanese movement. They are Lebanese. Of course, it's not secret that they have support from Iran. But their agenda is Lebanese and they are the resistance movement because they played a great role in liberating parts of the occupied territories of Lebanon. It's a political party also, they are represented in the parliament and also indirectly represented in the government. So they are the Lebanese movement. They are also the resistance group. So it is an armed resistance group. But then again, Hezbollah doesn't want any escalation on the border. But like I said, when this situation escalates to a degree, to an unbearable degree, which no one knows what is its cap, then the situation might, unfortunately, spill over into something that we don't want.&nbsp;

WION: So you said in the starting that the Arab world is in a state of shock, if you can help our viewers understand how big is the ongoing development for the Arab capitals, how concerned not only Lebanon, but the other Arab capitals are about the situation, particularly when it comes to the situation in Gaza?&nbsp;

Dr Rabie Narsh: &nbsp;Everybody is concerned, the whole world is concerned because war is bad. No one wants war and all people and the international community call for peace. And in this same context the Arab world... all... they call for peace. By the way, the Arab states, the 22 Arab states, meeting in Beirut, the summit of Beirut, the Arab League summit in 2002, they put on the table, a peace initiative. It was called the Beirut peace initiative in 2002... collectively they said we are ready to recognise Israel, have a normal relationship with Israel, diplomatic relationship with Israel, and in turn return all Palestinian states and respect the right of return of Palestinians to there lands. So this was unprecedented. This was a historic move, a historic initiative from the Arab world, the Arab states, but unfortunately, it has been refused by Israel. Since then every year this initiative has been put on the table again, and Israel refused again and again. The only solution that the whole world focuses on and the whole world agrees on, is the two-state solution. Everyone in the world is with a two-state solution. And in every regional meeting or international meeting... this term is always there. India has been forever calling for a two-state solution. There's only one state that refuses this solution, which is Israel and how can one state only refuse this, this peaceful solution until now, their word is respected. I mean, till now we don't have a Palestinian state, because one state consider itself above international law and beyond all standards. They keep disrupting this initiative, this peaceful initiative. And that's what for now, Palestinians have no state, have no place I mean, that no sovereign state, that is the problem.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India's position?&nbsp;

Dr Rabie Narsh: India is a peace-loving country. India has a great role to play in the international arena and India has so far been playing a great peaceful role and constructive role in the international arena. On this subject, in particular, India has always been calling for a two-state solution. They call for a peaceful, sovereign state of Palestine, living in peace, side by side with the Israeli state. But like I said, the only country that's against the solution is Israel and unfortunately, we don't have so far, we haven't seen this solution implemented. So India, yes, has been playing a role. India has a historic friendship with the Arab world, particularly because they are strong supporters of the Palestinian cause. And also they have a friendly relationship with Israel. So that's why India is entitled and they are, I mean, qualified and they are doing a great job and playing a great role in this conflict.&nbsp;

WION: Do&nbsp;you see the Indian role in de-escalating this ongoing situation? Reaching out to both Israel and Palestine?&nbsp;

Dr Rabie Narsh: &nbsp;Yes, of course, I mean, there should be... I mean, not only from India but from the international community, there should be more pressure on Israel. Because what we've seen is really madness, to give Israel a free ticket to bomb and to kill the Palestinians is not fair. India has been calling on Israel for restraint. But I believe that more pressure can be placed on Israel, for ceasefire, and cessation of hostilities, all kinds of hostilities in Gaza and occupied territories of Palestine.&nbsp;

WION: Are we looking at some talks between Indian, and Lebanese leadership? PM Modi has spoken to leaders of Israel, Palestine, and Jordan.&nbsp;

Dr Rabie Narsh: We are in touch with the MEA through the Arab ambassadors collectively. There hasn't been, yet any direct bilateral contact between the Lebanese side and the Indian side. But of course, the channels are open and anytime we can see such channels established.&nbsp;

WION: So the Arab ambassadors here in Delhi are reaching to MEA...

Dr Rabie Narsh:&nbsp;We are in direct contact with the officials in the Ministry of External Affairs. And they also, together have been playing a good role and India has as I said, India has always been, has always had open doors to all peaceful initiatives.&nbsp;

WION: Do you feel... do you sense.. what's your assessment that will there be the Lebanon-Israeli escalation... given that the border is virtually on fire?

Dr Rabie Narsh: We hope not. As I said, we are... we have always been calling for a peaceful solution to the conflict. We have experienced war and we know what war means. We know the devastating repercussions of any war. It's not a cakewalk, and the Israeli side should know the same because it will impact not only Lebanon but all the regions and would affect Israel badly. So we hope and we are calling for a peaceful solution to the conflict and not to reach that point of direct conflict between Lebanon and Israel. Let's end with a hopeful note that the peace will prevail and this madness from the Israeli side will end.&nbsp;

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Lebanon's ambassador to India Dr Rabie Narsh termed the ongoing situation in West Asia as "tense" & "volatile". In an exclusive interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, he said, "Situation in the region is like the a race between diplomacy and war and we hope that diplomacy will win.

Lebanon's ambassador to India Dr Rabie Narsh termed the ongoing situation in West Asia as "tense" & "volatile". In an exclusive interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, he said, "Situation in the region is like the a race between diplomacy and war and we hope that diplomacy will win." Over 1400 Israelis and 5,000 plus Palestinians have died in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war that started earlier this month putting the region on tenterhooks. Diplomatic efforts are on, including those led by US and Egypt to de-escalate the situation but so far the situation remains concerning. Asked about the Lebanon-Israel border situation, the ambassador said, "We have always been calling for a peaceful solution to the conflict. We have experienced war and we know what war means. We know the devastating repercussions of any war. It's not a cakewalk, and the Israeli side should also know the same because it will impact not only Lebanon but all the regions and would affect Israel badly." The worry remains for Lebanon as several countries have asked their nationals to leave the country. Also Read | Explained: Why is Israel putting Gaza's ground invasion on back-burner? He welcomed India's stance on the ongoing situation, explaining, "India has a historic friendship with the Arab world, particularly they are strong supporters to the Palestinian cause. And also they have a friendly relationship with Israel. So that's why India is entitled and they are, I mean, qualified and they are doing a great job and playing a great role in this conflict." Here's the complete interview WION: What is Lebanon making of the ongoing situation? We have seen the attack by Hamas and then the retaliation by Israel. So what's your government's position on the development? Dr Rabie Narsh: The situation is really worrisome and quite tense. But let me say something, let me start with putting, calling the things by their right names. The situation did not start on October the seventh with the Hamas attack. The situation started a long time before that. Started with the occupation of the of Israel to the Palestinian lands and since putting 2.5 million Palestinians in the biggest open prison in the world. So of course, as you asked me about Lebanon's position, of course, we are calling for peace. We have always called for a peaceful solution to the problem. It is Israel who refused and kept on refusing all initiatives or peace initiatives. So, Lebanon's position is very well known. We are against escalation, against war, against attacking civilians, but we have to be firm and we have to see the root cause of the situation, which is the occupation, the Israeli occupation of the Arab lands. Also Read | Captive Hamas militant reveals $10K reward & an apartment were on offer to lure them into bringing hostages WION: As you mentioned the situation of the civilians, will you term the attack by Hamas a terror attack? Will you condemn the attack. Dr Rabie Narsh: This actually... this mindset of asking the host to condemn. Well, like I said, I mean, this mindset has to change. It's not about condemning. If you want to condemn, of course, yes, I told you we condemn all civilian casualties, we condemn killing civilians. But let's be fair and condemn, I assume you condemn Israel's attack on civilians. Israel's occupation is the cause, and what all Palestinians and every act of resistance is the retaliation, is the reaction. So yes, I condemn civilian killing, but in this sense, I condemn in the strongest terms Israel's ethnic cleansing of the Gaza Strip. I condemn the carpet bombing, the leveling of whole villages and whole neighbourhoods to the ground, of bombing hospitals. You have seen al-Ahli hospital and other hospitals... of bombing schools... of targeting civilian infrastructures. Yes, of course, we do condemn this. WION: How is Lebanon reaching out to the people of Palestine? You mentioned the situation in Gaza... are you sending some kind of humanitarian aid as well, to the people of Gaza impacted by the Israeli bombings? Dr Rabie Narsh: Notwithstanding the dire economic situation that Lebanon currently is going through. But how could we send it? I mean we have no direct channel and Israel has a complete seal off of the Palestinian territories. So it is not to my knowledge that we are sending some humanitarian aid but of course, we are contributors to the international agencies like UNRWA, who helped the Palestinian refugees. Of course, we do. We have to see something so that we can understand the bigger situation, the bigger picture, and the societies in that region. The Arab societies are so interrelated. So there are relatives everywhere. That's why I mean when an attack happened on the Palestinians, maybe the Arabs in Algeria, they get hurt. I mean, like here in India, you know, we are one country, so if something happened to the in South India, here in North India, you feel sorry for that and you feel like you are concerned. So that's why I mean, the attack of Israel, of course, concerned us. WION: Your country, it looks like will be impacted, we have seen several advisories. Do you see this situation as a worrisome situation? Dr Rabie Narsh: This is only normal in times of war, in terms of words, we see all the foreign embassies. They call for nationals to be careful or to leave that country or not to visit that country, which is being attacked or under the threat of being attacked. So yes, I mean, it's normal, plus because I think the ambassadors, the foreign ambassadors in Lebanon, they know well that Israel is a real threat and when they say we might attack Lebanon, they can. Because we have been subjected to Israeli attacks for a long time. And many times they bombed Lebanon and they attacked. So Israeli aggression is quite a fact. And yeah, I think I understand the foreign embassies calling on the nationals to be careful or leave, unfortunately, but yeah, that's I mean, because I think they know the Israeli intention. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Hope rises among kin of hostages × WION: Now, we saw the comments coming from Israel, they have said that Hezbollah is firing into Israeli territory, and there might be a second front that might open, in Israel's north. They have also said that there could be a second Israel-Lebanon War. What do you make out of these comments? Dr Rabie Narsh: It's not true that Hezbollah has initiated any attack against Israel. Hezbollah has been in defensive mode. Of course, I have told you the relation and interrelated societies, so yeah, despite the fact that anybody in Lebanon or in the Arab world feels that they are concerned about the Israeli attacks on the Palestinians. Despite that fact, Hezbollah didn't retaliate. Of course, now there is some exchange of fires. Hezbollah mainly attacks Israeli posts but on the occupied territories of Lebanon. I mean, there are talks to keep the situation under control and not to get spilled into an all-out war. WION: You mentioned about the talks... talks between which side? Dr Rabie Narsh: Lebanon's government is in talks with the Syrians, Iranians, Saudi Arabia, and the United States. I mean, of course, there are diplomatic talks. The situation in the region is like a race between diplomacy and war. And we hope that diplomacy will win. WION: Do you think that the situation can escalate very fast? Dr Rabie Narsh: Given the fact that our neighbour, the occupying force of Israel is, you know, armed to the teeth, they have weapons of mass destruction, they have nuclear weapons, and they have the intention of aggression. So yes, given these facts, so yeah, we are afraid that the situation might escalate, but no one knows which is the threshold... the trigger point of all-out war. So we're afraid of the escalation of the situation in Gaza, the number of casualties and you know that the numbers and the numbers of casualties, really something very worrisome. It's beyond imagination. So far more than 6,000 Palestinians have been killed. Half of them are children and women. So yeah, I mean, no one guarantees that the situation will not escalate. But as I said, the initiatives and the talks are there, and hopefully, things will abate and the situation will be controlled. WION: So particularly talking about the situation in the southern part of your country, southern Lebanon, what is the situation like? Dr Rabie Narsh: Of course, the situation is quite tense. As I said, quite tense, worrisome, volatile. It's the people who are afraid because as I said, again, they have experienced Israeli aggression and yeah, of course, they are afraid of being the targets of Israel. In 2006, Israel attacked at United Nations complex. So yes, we're afraid, people in south Lebanon, and not only in southern Lebanon, also in Lebanon and the neighbouring region. I mean, the whole region is worried about the escalation. WION: Are there any casualties in southern Lebanon? Dr Rabie Narsh: Yeah, we have suffered casualties. We have one journalist unfortunately killed by the Israeli direct attack and we also have civilians of course. WION: There is the presence of the UN peacekeeping mission as well and there is the presence of the Indian peacekeepers as well as how safe they are. And the role played by the UN peacekeepers... if you can perhaps talk about? Dr Rabie Narsh: As I said the Israelis attacked a UN complex in 2006 and by the way India participates in the UNFIL-United Nations interim forces for peacekeeping forces in Lebanon, and India has a big contingent, about 900 soldiers, doing peacekeeping. They are playing, of course, a great role in defusing the tension and to contact - indirect talks between the Lebanese army and the Israeli side. WION: We have seen a lot of mention of Hezbollah. What's the role of Hezbollah in terms of the ongoing situation, if you can talk about that? Because we all know that the Israeli side has said that because the Hezbollah the situation is escalating. Many say it's Hezbollah and Iran working in that part of Lebanon, that is escalating the situation. What is the exact situation? Dr Rabie Narsh: Well, Hezbollah is the Lebanese movement. They are Lebanese. Of course, it's not secret that they have support from Iran. But their agenda is Lebanese and they are the resistance movement because they played a great role in liberating parts of the occupied territories of Lebanon. It's a political party also, they are represented in the parliament and also indirectly represented in the government. So they are the Lebanese movement. They are also the resistance group. So it is an armed resistance group. But then again, Hezbollah doesn't want any escalation on the border. But like I said, when this situation escalates to a degree, to an unbearable degree, which no one knows what is its cap, then the situation might, unfortunately, spill over into something that we don't want. WION: So you said in the starting that the Arab world is in a state of shock, if you can help our viewers understand how big is the ongoing development for the Arab capitals, how concerned not only Lebanon, but the other Arab capitals are about the situation, particularly when it comes to the situation in Gaza? Dr Rabie Narsh: Everybody is concerned, the whole world is concerned because war is bad. No one wants war and all people and the international community call for peace. And in this same context the Arab world... all... they call for peace. By the way, the Arab states, the 22 Arab states, meeting in Beirut, the summit of Beirut, the Arab League summit in 2002, they put on the table, a peace initiative. It was called the Beirut peace initiative in 2002... collectively they said we are ready to recognise Israel, have a normal relationship with Israel, diplomatic relationship with Israel, and in turn return all Palestinian states and respect the right of return of Palestinians to there lands. So this was unprecedented. This was a historic move, a historic initiative from the Arab world, the Arab states, but unfortunately, it has been refused by Israel. Since then every year this initiative has been put on the table again, and Israel refused again and again. The only solution that the whole world focuses on and the whole world agrees on, is the two-state solution. Everyone in the world is with a two-state solution. And in every regional meeting or international meeting... this term is always there. India has been forever calling for a two-state solution. There's only one state that refuses this solution, which is Israel and how can one state only refuse this, this peaceful solution until now, their word is respected. I mean, till now we don't have a Palestinian state, because one state consider itself above international law and beyond all standards. They keep disrupting this initiative, this peaceful initiative. And that's what for now, Palestinians have no state, have no place I mean, that no sovereign state, that is the problem. WION: How do you see India's position? Dr Rabie Narsh: India is a peace-loving country. India has a great role to play in the international arena and India has so far been playing a great peaceful role and constructive role in the international arena. On this subject, in particular, India has always been calling for a two-state solution. They call for a peaceful, sovereign state of Palestine, living in peace, side by side with the Israeli state. But like I said, the only country that's against the solution is Israel and unfortunately, we don't have so far, we haven't seen this solution implemented. So India, yes, has been playing a role. India has a historic friendship with the Arab world, particularly because they are strong supporters of the Palestinian cause. And also they have a friendly relationship with Israel. So that's why India is entitled and they are, I mean, qualified and they are doing a great job and playing a great role in this conflict. WION: Do you see the Indian role in de-escalating this ongoing situation? Reaching out to both Israel and Palestine? Dr Rabie Narsh: Yes, of course, I mean, there should be... I mean, not only from India but from the international community, there should be more pressure on Israel. Because what we've seen is really madness, to give Israel a free ticket to bomb and to kill the Palestinians is not fair. India has been calling on Israel for restraint. But I believe that more pressure can be placed on Israel, for ceasefire, and cessation of hostilities, all kinds of hostilities in Gaza and occupied territories of Palestine. WION: Are we looking at some talks between Indian, and Lebanese leadership? PM Modi has spoken to leaders of Israel, Palestine, and Jordan. Dr Rabie Narsh: We are in touch with the MEA through the Arab ambassadors collectively. There hasn't been, yet any direct bilateral contact between the Lebanese side and the Indian side. But of course, the channels are open and anytime we can see such channels established. WION: So the Arab ambassadors here in Delhi are reaching to MEA... Dr Rabie Narsh: We are in direct contact with the officials in the Ministry of External Affairs. And they also, together have been playing a good role and India has as I said, India has always been, has always had open doors to all peaceful initiatives. WION: Do you feel... do you sense.. what's your assessment that will there be the Lebanon-Israeli escalation... given that the border is virtually on fire? Dr Rabie Narsh: We hope not. As I said, we are... we have always been calling for a peaceful solution to the conflict. We have experienced war and we know what war means. We know the devastating repercussions of any war. It's not a cakewalk, and the Israeli side should know the same because it will impact not only Lebanon but all the regions and would affect Israel badly. So we hope and we are calling for a peaceful solution to the conflict and not to reach that point of direct conflict between Lebanon and Israel. Let's end with a hopeful note that the peace will prevail and this madness from the Israeli side will end. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

EXCLUSIVE: We hope diplomacy wins, says Lebanon's envoy to India Dr Rabie Narsh on West Asia situation

The unexpected terror let loose by Hamas into Israel on October 7 has dealt a blow to long-standing beliefs on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict over the years.

Israelis drew parallels between the attack, which led to approximately 1,400 casualties on their side, primarily among civilians, and the tragic events of September 11, 2001, in the US.&nbsp;

The element of shock and surprise in the assault evoked memories of both 9/11 and the Yom Kippur War of 1973. In that war, Israeli forces found themselves unprepared for an Arab coalition, spearheaded by Egypt and Syria, challenging widely accepted assumptions.

However, the present Israel-Hamas war has shattered a series of long-held assumptions that once underpinned the Israel-Palestine dispute.

<h2>Assumption 1 - Israel is 'bulletproof' and its army unbeatable</h2>

Israel was basking in its own technological glory when the Hamas attacked. The country boasts of the most sophisticated military in the Middle East.&nbsp;Yet, akin to the shock felt in the US after 9/11, a considerably less equipped adversary managed to put together an unforeseen attack.

While Hamas may rely on relatively basic, mostly hand-held weaponry , they did use drones, paragliders and their own intelligence to outfox Israel's supposedly impenetrable border, laden with top-notch surveillance tools.

<img alt="pic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74af6f10-a727-415e-ab81-d0dd5f4f1cb5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20-%202023-10-24T115958.769.jpg" />

Streaks of light seen as Israel's Iron Dome system intercepts rockets launched from Gaza. Photo credit: Reuters

Hamas' ability to keep their mega assault plot under wraps, despite the involvement of hundreds of fighters, dealt a significant blow to Israel's pride in its on-ground human intelligence capabilities in Gaza, led by the reputed agency Mossad.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/hamas-israel-war-rare-dissent-over-us-arms-for-israel-raises-troubling-questions-650540">Also read |&nbsp;Hamas-Israel war: Rare dissent over US arms for Israel raises troubling questions</a>

<h2>Assumption 2: Hamas could be kept in check</h2>

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu long pursued a strategy aimed at dividing Palestinians between the West Bank and Gaza. This involved weakening the Palestinian Authority led by President Mahmoud Abbas, allowing Hamas to maintain control over Gaza, whereas PA was confined to West Bank, the other piece of land which, along with Gaza, constitutes the homeland of Palestinians.&nbsp;

The theory was that, by letting Hamas focus on governance and bolstering the Gaza enclave's living conditions, the group might moderate its stance and avoid major conflicts with Israel.

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Palestinian Hamas militants take part in a rally marking the 31st anniversary of Hamas' founding, in Gaza City. Photo credits: Reuters

In practice, Israel permitted Qatar to financially support Hamas, provided essential resources, and allowed a limited number of Gazans to work in Israel, while maintaining strict controls on population movement in cooperation with Egypt, leading to what many termed "an open-air prison."

<h2>Assumption 3: The US could take a backseat in Middle East relations</h2>

For the longest time,&nbsp; the US&nbsp; has only verbally expressed its commitment to a two-state solution and criticised Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank.

The US has also consistently&nbsp; prioritised matters related to China and the Indo-Pacific region. Similarly, it has also been involved in managing the aftermath of Russia's actions in Ukraine.

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&nbsp;

President Biden was greeted by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his arrival in Israel. Photo credit: AFP

Yet, this time around,&nbsp;President Joe Biden had to re-engage with the Middle East by providing unwavering support to Israel and maintaining relations with Arab countries facing threats from Iran and its associated groups.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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The unexpected terror let loose by Hamas into Israel on October 7 has dealt a blow to long-standing beliefs on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict over the years. Israelis drew parallels between the attack, which led to approximately 1,400 casualties on their side, primarily among civilians, and the tragic events of September 11, 2001, in the US.

The unexpected terror let loose by Hamas into Israel on October 7 has dealt a blow to long-standing beliefs on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict over the years. Israelis drew parallels between the attack, which led to approximately 1,400 casualties on their side, primarily among civilians, and the tragic events of September 11, 2001, in the US. The element of shock and surprise in the assault evoked memories of both 9/11 and the Yom Kippur War of 1973. In that war, Israeli forces found themselves unprepared for an Arab coalition, spearheaded by Egypt and Syria, challenging widely accepted assumptions. However, the present Israel-Hamas war has shattered a series of long-held assumptions that once underpinned the Israel-Palestine dispute. Assumption 1 - Israel is 'bulletproof' and its army unbeatable Israel was basking in its own technological glory when the Hamas attacked. The country boasts of the most sophisticated military in the Middle East. Yet, akin to the shock felt in the US after 9/11, a considerably less equipped adversary managed to put together an unforeseen attack. While Hamas may rely on relatively basic, mostly hand-held weaponry , they did use drones, paragliders and their own intelligence to outfox Israel's supposedly impenetrable border, laden with top-notch surveillance tools. Streaks of light seen as Israel's Iron Dome system intercepts rockets launched from Gaza. Photo credit: Reuters Hamas' ability to keep their mega assault plot under wraps, despite the involvement of hundreds of fighters, dealt a significant blow to Israel's pride in its on-ground human intelligence capabilities in Gaza, led by the reputed agency Mossad. Also read | Hamas-Israel war: Rare dissent over US arms for Israel raises troubling questions Assumption 2: Hamas could be kept in check Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu long pursued a strategy aimed at dividing Palestinians between the West Bank and Gaza. This involved weakening the Palestinian Authority led by President Mahmoud Abbas, allowing Hamas to maintain control over Gaza, whereas PA was confined to West Bank, the other piece of land which, along with Gaza, constitutes the homeland of Palestinians. The theory was that, by letting Hamas focus on governance and bolstering the Gaza enclave's living conditions, the group might moderate its stance and avoid major conflicts with Israel. Palestinian Hamas militants take part in a rally marking the 31st anniversary of Hamas' founding, in Gaza City. Photo credits: Reuters In practice, Israel permitted Qatar to financially support Hamas, provided essential resources, and allowed a limited number of Gazans to work in Israel, while maintaining strict controls on population movement in cooperation with Egypt, leading to what many termed "an open-air prison." Assumption 3: The US could take a backseat in Middle East relations For the longest time, the US has only verbally expressed its commitment to a two-state solution and criticised Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank. The US has also consistently prioritised matters related to China and the Indo-Pacific region. Similarly, it has also been involved in managing the aftermath of Russia's actions in Ukraine. President Biden was greeted by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his arrival in Israel. Photo credit: AFP Yet, this time around, President Joe Biden had to re-engage with the Middle East by providing unwavering support to Israel and maintaining relations with Arab countries facing threats from Iran and its associated groups. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hamas assault may have destroyed deep-rooted beliefs about Israel and Palestinians

U.S. officials are worried about more attacks on U.S. troops in the Middle East. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin are also concerned about the threat.

Is there an increased threat to US troops in the Middle East?

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday (Oct 22) said that the ripple effects of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war are not entirely clear right now. His remarks came while he was addressing the closing plenary session on ‘Navigating a World on Fire’ at the Kautilya Economic Conclave - 2023, organised by the Institute of Economic Growth in association with the Ministry of Finance, in New Delhi.&nbsp;

"The ripple impact of what is taking place right now in the Middle East is still not entirely clear... In different regions, there are smaller happenings whose impact is not inconsequential... There is also the less formal version that is very pervasive, terrorism which has long been honed and practised as a tool of statecraft... Any expectation that conflicts and terrorism can be contained in their impact is no longer tenable. A big part of this is clearly economic, but do not underestimate the danger of metastasis when it comes to radicalism and extremism. No danger is too distant anymore," Jaishankar reportedly said.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-sends-humanitarian-aid-to-gaza-palestine-envoy-welcomes-the-step-649849">India sends humanitarian aid to Gaza; Palestine envoy welcomes the step</a>

He also touched upon the ongoing war in Ukraine by pointing out how some events can have far-reaching consequences "beyond the immediate geography."

In a world where there are traditional notions of US-China bipolarity, Dr. Jaishankar asserted that the United States and China are unlikely to create a new bipolar order as there are many "next-run powers" with "significant clout."

EAM Dr S Jaishankar said, "The unipolar world is a distant history. The bipolar world was even more distant in the bipolarity of the US-Soviet Union. And I don't think US China will really end up bipolar. I think there are too many, as I said, too many next-run powers with sufficient clout and autonomous activity and regions of their own dominance and privacy..."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indian-navy-recovered-isros-gaganyaan-crew-module-as-storm-brewed-in-bay-of-bengal-649692">Indian Navy recovered ISRO's Gaganyaan Crew module, as storm brewed in Bay of Bengal</a>

"If you look today at what is happening in the Middle East, a lot of it is actually, in a sense, the activities are intrinsic to the Middle East... So the key regional players on regional situations are actually today going to be so dominant compared to the past that they're not going to leave that much space for global players or external players to come in. And I think you can see that happening in Africa as well," he added.&nbsp;

Jaishankar's address was not limited to discussing global challenges as he also spoke of the progress made over the years and the continuous emergence of new issues.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-overcrowding-living-spaces-no-more-hygiene-products-in-gaza-649911">Israel-Palestine war | Overcrowding living spaces, no more hygiene products in gaza</a>

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At the conclave, Jaishankar said, "... There has been a lot of evidence to show... that we are far better off today than we were a decade or 2 or 5 before. Because every set of solutions throws up a new generation of problems. We constantly dissect, analyze, debate, and sometimes even agonize. The really good people in my business also imagine, anticipate, and foresee... We need both an evolutionary approach as well as audacious thinking... The reason for that is the churning on multiple fronts that the world is going through..."

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday (Oct 22) said that the ripple effects of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war are not entirely clear right now. His remarks came while he was addressing the closing plenary session on ‘Navigating a World on Fire’ at the Kautilya Economic Conclave - 2023, organised by the Institute of Economic Growth in association with the Ministry of Finance, in New Delhi.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday (Oct 22) said that the ripple effects of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war are not entirely clear right now. His remarks came while he was addressing the closing plenary session on ‘Navigating a World on Fire’ at the Kautilya Economic Conclave - 2023, organised by the Institute of Economic Growth in association with the Ministry of Finance, in New Delhi. "The ripple impact of what is taking place right now in the Middle East is still not entirely clear... In different regions, there are smaller happenings whose impact is not inconsequential... There is also the less formal version that is very pervasive, terrorism which has long been honed and practised as a tool of statecraft... Any expectation that conflicts and terrorism can be contained in their impact is no longer tenable. A big part of this is clearly economic, but do not underestimate the danger of metastasis when it comes to radicalism and extremism. No danger is too distant anymore," Jaishankar reportedly said. Also Read | India sends humanitarian aid to Gaza; Palestine envoy welcomes the step He also touched upon the ongoing war in Ukraine by pointing out how some events can have far-reaching consequences "beyond the immediate geography." In a world where there are traditional notions of US-China bipolarity, Dr. Jaishankar asserted that the United States and China are unlikely to create a new bipolar order as there are many "next-run powers" with "significant clout." EAM Dr S Jaishankar said, "The unipolar world is a distant history. The bipolar world was even more distant in the bipolarity of the US-Soviet Union. And I don't think US China will really end up bipolar. I think there are too many, as I said, too many next-run powers with sufficient clout and autonomous activity and regions of their own dominance and privacy..." Also Read | Indian Navy recovered ISRO's Gaganyaan Crew module, as storm brewed in Bay of Bengal "If you look today at what is happening in the Middle East, a lot of it is actually, in a sense, the activities are intrinsic to the Middle East... So the key regional players on regional situations are actually today going to be so dominant compared to the past that they're not going to leave that much space for global players or external players to come in. And I think you can see that happening in Africa as well," he added. Jaishankar's address was not limited to discussing global challenges as he also spoke of the progress made over the years and the continuous emergence of new issues. Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Overcrowding living spaces, no more hygiene products in gaza × At the conclave, Jaishankar said, "... There has been a lot of evidence to show... that we are far better off today than we were a decade or 2 or 5 before. Because every set of solutions throws up a new generation of problems. We constantly dissect, analyze, debate, and sometimes even agonize. The really good people in my business also imagine, anticipate, and foresee... We need both an evolutionary approach as well as audacious thinking... The reason for that is the churning on multiple fronts that the world is going through..." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Ripple effects' of Israel-Hamas war not entirely clear now: Jaishankar at Kautilya Economic Conclave 2023

A-list Hollywood celebrities including Cate Blanchett, Joaquin Phoenix, Ramy Youssef and Andrew Garfield penned a letter to US President Joe Biden on Friday, urging him to call for a ceasefire in Israel's war with Hamas.

Dozens of top-flight names from the world of entertainment asked Biden to work to achieve an "immediate de-escalation and ceasefire in Gaza and Israel before another life is lost."

"We urge your administration, and all world leaders, to honor all of the lives in the Holy Land and call for and facilitate a ceasefire without delay -- an end to the bombing of Gaza, and the safe release of hostages," said the letter, released by artists4ceasefire.org.

"Saving lives is a moral imperative."

Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas after the Islamist group launched a shock raid from the Gaza Strip on October 7, killing at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials.

In response to the Hamas attack, Israeli bombers have levelled entire city blocks in Gaza in preparation for a ground invasion they say is coming soon. The Hamas-run health ministry said more than 4,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, have died in the onslaught.

Friday's letter, which was also signed by Jon Stewart, singer Dua Lipa, Susan Sarandon and Channing Tatum, comes a week after hundreds of Hollywood figures signed an open letter condemning the "barbaric acts" committed by Hamas fighters.

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A-list Hollywood celebrities including Cate Blanchett, Joaquin Phoenix, Ramy Youssef and Andrew Garfield penned a letter to US President Joe Biden on Friday, urging him to call for a ceasefire in Israel's war with Hamas.

A-list Hollywood celebrities including Cate Blanchett, Joaquin Phoenix, Ramy Youssef and Andrew Garfield penned a letter to US President Joe Biden on Friday, urging him to call for a ceasefire in Israel's war with Hamas. Dozens of top-flight names from the world of entertainment asked Biden to work to achieve an "immediate de-escalation and ceasefire in Gaza and Israel before another life is lost." "We urge your administration, and all world leaders, to honor all of the lives in the Holy Land and call for and facilitate a ceasefire without delay -- an end to the bombing of Gaza, and the safe release of hostages," said the letter, released by artists4ceasefire.org. "Saving lives is a moral imperative." Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas after the Islamist group launched a shock raid from the Gaza Strip on October 7, killing at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials. In response to the Hamas attack, Israeli bombers have levelled entire city blocks in Gaza in preparation for a ground invasion they say is coming soon. The Hamas-run health ministry said more than 4,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, have died in the onslaught. Friday's letter, which was also signed by Jon Stewart, singer Dua Lipa, Susan Sarandon and Channing Tatum, comes a week after hundreds of Hollywood figures signed an open letter condemning the "barbaric acts" committed by Hamas fighters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hollywood actors call for Middle East ceasefire

Thirty years ago, on 13 September 1993, Yasser Arafat and Yitzhak Rabin shook hands to seal the "Oslo Accords," which were supposed to lead to a permanent settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict within five years. I remember feeling at that time the hope of finally seeing an end to the already decades-long Arab-Israeli-Palestinian tragedy. In 2023, what is left? There is neither peace nor a peace process. Hope has turned into resentment and despair, and this anniversary went virtually unnoticed.&nbsp;

On the ground, the conflict is heating up once again. This year already saw more than 200 Palestinian and 35 Israeli fatalities. Terrorist attacks, both by Palestinian militants against Israelis and by Israeli settlers against Palestinians are back at record levels. Israel continues to expand settlements in the West Bank: at the time of the Oslo Accords, there were 280,000 settlers; today there are more than 700,000. Settler violence, the separation barrier, demolitions, and other measures are gradually pushing the Palestinian population off their land in many areas of the West Bank, while the humanitarian disaster in Gaza continues unabated, with no end in sight.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-terms-normalisation-with-israel-a-losing-bet-state-media-642282">Iran's Khamenei terms normalisation with Israel a 'losing' bet: State media</a>

Meanwhile, domestic support for the internationally recognised Palestinian leadership is at an all-time low, compounded by a growing lack of funding. In contrast, Israel has become a thriving “start-up nation”, in spite of an imperfect security environment. The need to change the status quo is not felt as acutely in Tel Aviv as it is in Ramallah, but the conflict is not going away: the idea that Israel could go forward without making peace with the Palestinians is a dangerous illusion.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jordan-scalise-or-trump-here-are-the-top-contenders-to-replace-mccarthy-as-us-house-speaker-642783">Jordan, Scalise or Trump? Who will replace McCarthy as US House Speaker?</a>

The continued violation of UN Security Council resolutions and of some of the most fundamental principles of international law is eroding trust in a rules-based international order, not just in the region but across the globe. It is, therefore, more necessary and urgent than ever for the international community to reaffirm its commitment to, and mobilise for, peace between Israelis and Palestinians.&nbsp;

For years now, we, the EU and the international community, have been defending a Two-State Solution with the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, sovereign State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security with Jerusalem as the capital of both states. Because of Israel’s fait accompli policy, this solution may seem less and less viable on the ground. However, which other alternative could allow Israelis and Palestinians to live side by side in peace? Nobody is able to articulate any other plausible answer.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uns-warning-on-global-economy-642804">UN’s warning on global economy</a>

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The establishment of diplomatic ties between some Arab States and Israel, vital as it is for regional peace, has so far not brought Israelis and Palestinians closer to peace. Therefore, together with the League of Arab States, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan, we have decided to make a joint contribution to help revitalise the Two-State solution.&nbsp;

On 18 September, at the United Nations in New York, we jointly launched the ‘Peace Day Effort’. It was a success with the participation of more than 50 countries and organisations. We intend to ‘reverse engineer’ the peace, putting together a “Peace Supporting Package”, which will maximise benefits for the Palestinians and Israelis if they are able to reach a peace agreement. This initiative builds on the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative and the 2013 EU “package of political, security and economic support”, which both have foreseen such incentives to the conflict parties if they achieve peace, while also taking inspiration from existing relations between Israel and some Arab states.&nbsp;

We aim to gather what all of us can contribute when there is actual peace, real open borders, and substantial regional cooperation in the Middle East. What political, economic, and security perspectives could we offer? What energy, climate, water, development, and other projects would we launch? This Peace Day Effort is not just an Arab-European endeavour: all international partners are invited to contribute, and in New York, many offered their support. On 13 and 14 November, we will start to work together in Brussels to make this Peace Supporting Package precise and concrete.

This initiative cannot of course be a substitute for a genuine peace process between Israelis and Palestinians. And, the Peace Supporting Package alone will not be sufficient to overcome the many obstacles to peace, but it can provide an incentive to go in this direction – not only by the benefits it offers but also by reminding the conflict parties that only a negotiated solution is a viable and acceptable strategic option.&nbsp;

While our Israeli and Palestinian friends are not yet negotiating peace, we have embarked on this journey to help keep the Two-State Solution alive, hoping that, together, we can bring it within closer reach. As remote as peace in the Middle East may appear today, echoing the words of Nelson Mandela that ‘‘it always seems impossible until it’s done”, we will keep trying. For the sake of the legitimate rights of Palestinians, sustainable long-term security for Israelis, peace and development in the region, and the credibility of the international rules-based order, the world cannot afford the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to be forgotten.

(Josep Borrell Fontelles is High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission)

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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&nbsp;

Thirty years ago, on 13 September 1993, Yasser Arafat and Yitzhak Rabin shook hands to seal the "Oslo Accords," which were supposed to lead to a permanent settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict within five years.

Thirty years ago, on 13 September 1993, Yasser Arafat and Yitzhak Rabin shook hands to seal the "Oslo Accords," which were supposed to lead to a permanent settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict within five years. I remember feeling at that time the hope of finally seeing an end to the already decades-long Arab-Israeli-Palestinian tragedy. In 2023, what is left? There is neither peace nor a peace process. Hope has turned into resentment and despair, and this anniversary went virtually unnoticed. On the ground, the conflict is heating up once again. This year already saw more than 200 Palestinian and 35 Israeli fatalities. Terrorist attacks, both by Palestinian militants against Israelis and by Israeli settlers against Palestinians are back at record levels. Israel continues to expand settlements in the West Bank: at the time of the Oslo Accords, there were 280,000 settlers; today there are more than 700,000. Settler violence, the separation barrier, demolitions, and other measures are gradually pushing the Palestinian population off their land in many areas of the West Bank, while the humanitarian disaster in Gaza continues unabated, with no end in sight. Also Read | Iran's Khamenei terms normalisation with Israel a 'losing' bet: State media Meanwhile, domestic support for the internationally recognised Palestinian leadership is at an all-time low, compounded by a growing lack of funding. In contrast, Israel has become a thriving “start-up nation”, in spite of an imperfect security environment. The need to change the status quo is not felt as acutely in Tel Aviv as it is in Ramallah, but the conflict is not going away: the idea that Israel could go forward without making peace with the Palestinians is a dangerous illusion. Also Read | Jordan, Scalise or Trump? Who will replace McCarthy as US House Speaker? The continued violation of UN Security Council resolutions and of some of the most fundamental principles of international law is eroding trust in a rules-based international order, not just in the region but across the globe. It is, therefore, more necessary and urgent than ever for the international community to reaffirm its commitment to, and mobilise for, peace between Israelis and Palestinians. For years now, we, the EU and the international community, have been defending a Two-State Solution with the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, sovereign State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security with Jerusalem as the capital of both states. Because of Israel’s fait accompli policy, this solution may seem less and less viable on the ground. However, which other alternative could allow Israelis and Palestinians to live side by side in peace? Nobody is able to articulate any other plausible answer. Watch | UN’s warning on global economy × The establishment of diplomatic ties between some Arab States and Israel, vital as it is for regional peace, has so far not brought Israelis and Palestinians closer to peace. Therefore, together with the League of Arab States, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan, we have decided to make a joint contribution to help revitalise the Two-State solution. On 18 September, at the United Nations in New York, we jointly launched the ‘Peace Day Effort’. It was a success with the participation of more than 50 countries and organisations. We intend to ‘reverse engineer’ the peace, putting together a “Peace Supporting Package”, which will maximise benefits for the Palestinians and Israelis if they are able to reach a peace agreement. This initiative builds on the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative and the 2013 EU “package of political, security and economic support”, which both have foreseen such incentives to the conflict parties if they achieve peace, while also taking inspiration from existing relations between Israel and some Arab states. We aim to gather what all of us can contribute when there is actual peace, real open borders, and substantial regional cooperation in the Middle East. What political, economic, and security perspectives could we offer? What energy, climate, water, development, and other projects would we launch? This Peace Day Effort is not just an Arab-European endeavour: all international partners are invited to contribute, and in New York, many offered their support. On 13 and 14 November, we will start to work together in Brussels to make this Peace Supporting Package precise and concrete. This initiative cannot of course be a substitute for a genuine peace process between Israelis and Palestinians. And, the Peace Supporting Package alone will not be sufficient to overcome the many obstacles to peace, but it can provide an incentive to go in this direction – not only by the benefits it offers but also by reminding the conflict parties that only a negotiated solution is a viable and acceptable strategic option. While our Israeli and Palestinian friends are not yet negotiating peace, we have embarked on this journey to help keep the Two-State Solution alive, hoping that, together, we can bring it within closer reach. As remote as peace in the Middle East may appear today, echoing the words of Nelson Mandela that ‘‘it always seems impossible until it’s done”, we will keep trying. For the sake of the legitimate rights of Palestinians, sustainable long-term security for Israelis, peace and development in the region, and the credibility of the international rules-based order, the world cannot afford the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to be forgotten. (Josep Borrell Fontelles is High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission) (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Thirty years after Oslo, we should not give up on peace in the Middle East

The Israel-Hamas war has become one of the biggest humanitarian crises of this era as the Palestinians who are living in the Gaza Strip are struggling for basic resources such as food and clean water, electricity, and medicines as Israeli forces continue their fight to finish Hamas terrorists after their barbaric attack in southern Israel.

The Israel-Hamas war has become one of the biggest humanitarian crises of this era as the Palestinians who are living in the Gaza Strip are struggling for basic resources such as food and clean water, electricity, and medicines as Israeli forces continue their fight to finish Hamas terrorists after their barbaric attack in southern Israel. The ongoing fighting between Israel and Hamas started in the first week of October after a surprise and unprecedented attack was launched by Hamas, but the war didn't happen overnight, it was building up over the years, keeping West Asia on the edge. What's the origin of conflict? The Partition Plan was agreed upon by the United Nations in 1947, which attempted to divide the British Mandate of Palestine into Arab and Jewish states. The State of Israel was established on May 14, 1948, igniting the first Arab-Israeli War. Although Israel won the war in 1949, 750,000 Palestinians were displaced, and the land was divided into three parts: the State of Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. Also read: Who funds Hamas? How terror group gets money and military equipment What are the core issues of the conflict? The main issues include a two-state solution, Israeli settlements, the status of Jerusalem, and refugees. First, let's discuss the two-state solution, which is an agreement that would create a state for the Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip alongside Israel. However, the concept of the two-state solution has been rejected by Hamas. Meanwhile, Israel wants the Palestinian state to be demilitarised, so that it isn't a threat to Israel. There are also issues with the Israeli settlements as some nations consider Jewish settlements built on land taken by Israel in 1967 to be illegal, but Israel disagrees. It says it has historical and Biblical links to the area. The continuation of its expansion is one of the most controversial problems between Israel and the Palestinians. Another burning issue, Palestinians want East Jerusalem, which includes sites sacred to Muslims, Jews and Christians, to be the capital of their state. But Israel says Jerusalem should remain its "indivisible and eternal" capital. Israel's claim to the eastern part of Jerusalem is not recognised internationally. Former US president Donald Trump recognised Jerusalem as Israel's capital, without specifying the extent of its jurisdiction in the disputed city, and moved the US embassy there in 2018. The issue of refugees is also crucial to understanding the Israeli-Palestine conflict as today about 5.6 million Palestinian refugees, the majority are descendants of those who fled in 1948, live in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank and Gaza. The Palestinian foreign ministry says that about half of registered refugees remain stateless, many living in crowded camps. Also read: What are white phosphorus bombs that Israel reportedly used in Gaza? Is it illegal? What's the future of peace attempts? There have been several attempts to establish peace between the two, and also in West Asia. Egypt and Israel signed a peace pact in 1979, putting an end to 30 years of hostility. In 1993, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Palestinian Authority Chairman Yasser Arafat signed the Oslo Accords on limited Palestinian autonomy. Israel and Jordan signed a peace pact in 1994. Then US president Bill Clinton, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and Arafat failed to reach a final peace deal with the Camp David summit of 2000. The summit took place between 11 and 25 July 2000 and was an effort to end the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, but ended without an agreement. In 2002, an Arab plan offered Israel normal ties with all Arab countries in return for a full withdrawal from the lands it took in the 1967 Middle East war, the creation of a Palestinian state and a "just solution" for Palestinian refugees. But the peace efforts have been stalled since 2014 when talks failed between Israelis and Palestinians in Washington. Palestinians also boycotted dealings with the Trump administration over their refusal to endorse the two-state solution. Watch: Hamas planned to target Israeli schools, 'kill as many people as possible,' says report × What's the future of peace attempts? With the latest outbreak of war, concerns have grown over the recent attempts by the US to break a deal as on the day Israel declared war, President Joe Biden made a strong statement in support of Israel. The October conflict threw the United States 2023 effort to help mediate a normalisation agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia into disarray. This war is also a diplomatic challenge for Riyadh as well as for other Arab states, including some Gulf Arab states next to Saudi Arabia, that have signed peace deals with Israel. Also read: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas Saudi Arabia has historically campaigned for the rights and safety of Israeli Arab Palestinians and a source told the news agency AFP on Oct 13 that Riyadh has suspended talks on potentially normalising ties with Israel amid raging war. The source familiar with the discussions told AFP that "Saudi Arabia has decided to pause discussion on possible normalisation and has informed US officials". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | What are core Israel-Palestine issues? What's the future of peace attempts?

With the backdrop of an unexpected attack by Hamas on Israel, global financial markets are facing heightened uncertainty, with concerns over inflation and geopolitical risk taking centre stage. As markets react to the unfolding crisis, analysts weigh in on potential impacts and outcomes, Bloomberg reported.

The ensuing conflict, coupled with a surge in crude oil prices, has sent shockwaves through markets already grappling with rising interest rates and inflation concerns.

As tensions escalated, safe-haven currencies like the yen and the dollar strengthened in the early days of the trading week. Norway's krone also saw gains, benefiting from the surge in oil prices. Meanwhile, US stock futures dipped 0.7 per cent, and Asian markets displayed mixed performance. Notably, Middle Eastern equity markets experienced a significant decline, with Israel's benchmark TA-35 stock index witnessing its largest loss in over three years.

Bond traders now face a critical decision: whether to seek refuge in the safety of the dollar, forsaking higher-yield debt, or to brace for the potential impact of increased inflation. While Treasury futures gained ground at the start of the week, cash Treasuries remained closed due to a US holiday.

Bloomberg quoted Ed Yardeni, President of Yardeni Research Inc. As saying, "Geopolitical crises in the Middle East have usually caused oil prices to rise and stock prices to fall. Much will depend on whether the crisis turns out to be another short-term flare-up or something much bigger like a war between Israel and Iran."

Insights from analysts

The report by Bloomberg also cited multiple analysts. Among them, here’s what three of the analysts had to say:

Gonzalo Lardies, Senior Equities Fund Manager at Andbank, mentioned that the situation would introduce increased uncertainty to the markets. He noted that inflation and growth would recede, with geopolitical risk becoming the focal point. He suggested the possibility of a surge in volatility, and he believed that short-term fixed income could once again become a safe haven, while cyclical sectors would come under the spotlight.

Guillermo Santos, Head of Strategy at iCapital, cautioned that the consequences would not be significantly negative for financial markets as long as the conflict remained limited to Palestinians and Israelis. He expressed concern that any expansion of the conflict to oil-producing countries might result in higher crude oil prices, negative inflationary effects for the West, and declining stock markets, potentially leading to a recession.

Alfonso Benito, Chief Investment Officer at Dunas Capital, offered a more optimistic viewpoint, stating that he did not anticipate the situation to have a substantial impact on markets. He acknowledged the longstanding and distressing nature of the situation but believed that, aside from short-term volatility, it would not exert a major influence.

(With inputs from Bloomberg)

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With the backdrop of an unexpected attack by Hamas on Israel, global financial markets are facing heightened uncertainty, with concerns over inflation and geopolitical risk taking centre stage.

With the backdrop of an unexpected attack by Hamas on Israel, global financial markets are facing heightened uncertainty, with concerns over inflation and geopolitical risk taking centre stage. As markets react to the unfolding crisis, analysts weigh in on potential impacts and outcomes, Bloomberg reported. The ensuing conflict, coupled with a surge in crude oil prices, has sent shockwaves through markets already grappling with rising interest rates and inflation concerns. As tensions escalated, safe-haven currencies like the yen and the dollar strengthened in the early days of the trading week. Norway's krone also saw gains, benefiting from the surge in oil prices. Meanwhile, US stock futures dipped 0.7 per cent, and Asian markets displayed mixed performance. Notably, Middle Eastern equity markets experienced a significant decline, with Israel's benchmark TA-35 stock index witnessing its largest loss in over three years. Bond traders now face a critical decision: whether to seek refuge in the safety of the dollar, forsaking higher-yield debt, or to brace for the potential impact of increased inflation. While Treasury futures gained ground at the start of the week, cash Treasuries remained closed due to a US holiday. Bloomberg quoted Ed Yardeni, President of Yardeni Research Inc. As saying, "Geopolitical crises in the Middle East have usually caused oil prices to rise and stock prices to fall. Much will depend on whether the crisis turns out to be another short-term flare-up or something much bigger like a war between Israel and Iran." Insights from analysts The report by Bloomberg also cited multiple analysts. Among them, here’s what three of the analysts had to say: Gonzalo Lardies, Senior Equities Fund Manager at Andbank, mentioned that the situation would introduce increased uncertainty to the markets. He noted that inflation and growth would recede, with geopolitical risk becoming the focal point. He suggested the possibility of a surge in volatility, and he believed that short-term fixed income could once again become a safe haven, while cyclical sectors would come under the spotlight. Guillermo Santos, Head of Strategy at iCapital, cautioned that the consequences would not be significantly negative for financial markets as long as the conflict remained limited to Palestinians and Israelis. He expressed concern that any expansion of the conflict to oil-producing countries might result in higher crude oil prices, negative inflationary effects for the West, and declining stock markets, potentially leading to a recession. Alfonso Benito, Chief Investment Officer at Dunas Capital, offered a more optimistic viewpoint, stating that he did not anticipate the situation to have a substantial impact on markets. He acknowledged the longstanding and distressing nature of the situation but believed that, aside from short-term volatility, it would not exert a major influence. (With inputs from Bloomberg) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Middle East geopolitical crisis sends global markets into turmoil as oil prices rise

The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor announced on the sidelines of the recently concluded G20 leaders' summit in New Delhi is being seen as the rival of China's Belt and Road initiative. Can this project halt Beijing's extensive BRI footprint across at least three continents? WION'S Bhairavi Singh gets you the ground report

Maldives: India vs China election battleground | Inside South Asia

China's Belt & Road initiative has a new challenger. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. What does the project entail? Which countries have joined it? Can IMEC counter the BRI? Molly Gambhir tells you all that you need to know.

Gravitas Plus: India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor Explained | Can IMEC counter BRI?

New trade route: IMEC to enhance economic integration | Inside South Asia

Vikram Chandra explores the geo-political dimensions of the strategic India-Middle East- Europe trade corridor that would link South Asia to Europe through Israel and Saudi Arabia with former Ambassador Ajit Kumar and political analyst Dr. Waiel Awwad.

Reviving India's old 'spice route' | IMEC: Most tangible outcome of G20? | The India Story

Decoding shift in India-Middle East ties; significance of India in Arab world | The India Story

China's BRI has a new rival. India, US, Saudi Arabia and the European Union announced a multinational rail and ports deal on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. The corridor will link India with the Middle East and Europe. The move is seen as a weapon to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative

Threat to China's BRI? All about India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor

Archaeologists have reconstructed a 9,000-year-old necklace which was unearthed in 2018 with a grave of a child at an ancient settlement in the Middle East.&nbsp;

A well-constructed cist-type grave was discovered at Ba'ja, a Neolithic village (7,400–6,800 BCE) in a location that is now Jordan.&nbsp;

The child, believed to be eight-year-old, was buried in a fetal position underneath multiple grave layers and was covered with over 2,500 beads found on the chest and neck.&nbsp;

An international team led by archaeologist Hala Alarashi from Côte d'Azur University in France said that based on the shape of the child's jaw, it was probably a girl.&nbsp;

A double perforated stone pendant and an engraved mother-of-pearl ring were also discovered among the concentration of beads.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/rare-video-captures-killer-whale-tearing-into-massive-shark-slurping-its-liver-watch-622127">Rare video captures killer whale tearing into massive shark, 'slurping' its liver. Watch</a>&nbsp;

In the study titled Threads of memory: Reviving the ornament of a dead child at the Neolithic village of Ba`ja (Jordan), published in the online journal PLOS One on Wednesday (August 2), experts described how they reconstructed the artefact.&nbsp;

The authors said that the reconstruction results exceeded their expectations as they revealed an imposing multi-row necklace of complex structure and attractive design.&nbsp;

The study's authors wrote&nbsp;that "through multiple lines of evidence, we suggest that the necklace was created at Ba'ja, although significant parts of beads were made from exotic shells and stones, including fossil amber".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/move-over-blue-whale-scientists-discover-40-million-year-old-earths-biggest-animal-ever-621809">Not blue whale, this 40mn-year-old animal is largest ever to have lived on Earth</a>&nbsp;

The researchers have said that the ornament indicates that the child had significant social status.&nbsp;

The authors said the "abundance of beads composing the necklace, which is a common trait of ornaments found in other burials at Ba'ja, hints at wealth and prosperity".&nbsp;

"Adornments with a large number of beads—over 2,500—are unprecedented among contemporary Neolithic villages in the Levant," the authors said.&nbsp;

According to the study, the retrieval of such an ornament from life and its attribution to a young dead child highlights the significant social status of this individual.&nbsp;

"Beyond the symbolic functions related to identity, the necklace is believed to have played a key role in performing the inhumation rituals, understood as a public event gathering families, relatives, and people from other villages," the study mentioned.&nbsp;

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Archaeologists have reconstructed a 9,000-year-old necklace which was unearthed in 2018 with a grave of a child at an ancient settlement in the Middle East. A well-constructed cist-type grave was discovered at Ba'ja, a Neolithic village (7,400–6,800 BCE) in a location that is now Jordan.

Archaeologists have reconstructed a 9,000-year-old necklace which was unearthed in 2018 with a grave of a child at an ancient settlement in the Middle East. A well-constructed cist-type grave was discovered at Ba'ja, a Neolithic village (7,400–6,800 BCE) in a location that is now Jordan. The child, believed to be eight-year-old, was buried in a fetal position underneath multiple grave layers and was covered with over 2,500 beads found on the chest and neck. An international team led by archaeologist Hala Alarashi from Côte d'Azur University in France said that based on the shape of the child's jaw, it was probably a girl. A double perforated stone pendant and an engraved mother-of-pearl ring were also discovered among the concentration of beads. Also read: Rare video captures killer whale tearing into massive shark, 'slurping' its liver. Watch In the study titled Threads of memory: Reviving the ornament of a dead child at the Neolithic village of Ba`ja (Jordan), published in the online journal PLOS One on Wednesday (August 2), experts described how they reconstructed the artefact. The authors said that the reconstruction results exceeded their expectations as they revealed an imposing multi-row necklace of complex structure and attractive design. The study's authors wrote that "through multiple lines of evidence, we suggest that the necklace was created at Ba'ja, although significant parts of beads were made from exotic shells and stones, including fossil amber". Also read: Not blue whale, this 40mn-year-old animal is largest ever to have lived on Earth The researchers have said that the ornament indicates that the child had significant social status. The authors said the "abundance of beads composing the necklace, which is a common trait of ornaments found in other burials at Ba'ja, hints at wealth and prosperity". "Adornments with a large number of beads—over 2,500—are unprecedented among contemporary Neolithic villages in the Levant," the authors said. According to the study, the retrieval of such an ornament from life and its attribution to a young dead child highlights the significant social status of this individual. "Beyond the symbolic functions related to identity, the necklace is believed to have played a key role in performing the inhumation rituals, understood as a public event gathering families, relatives, and people from other villages," the study mentioned. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Ornament of dead child': Reconstruction of 9,000-year-old necklace reveals details

Iran&nbsp;will refrain from sending a new ambassador to Sweden in protest over the burning of a Quran&nbsp;outside a mosque in Stockholm,&nbsp;Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said on Sunday.&nbsp;

A man tore up and burned a Quran&nbsp;outside Stockholm's central mosque on Wednesday, the first day of the Muslim Eid al Adha holidays.

Swedish police charged the man who burned the holy book with agitation against an ethnic or national group. In a newspaper interview, he described himself as an Iraqi refugee seeking to ban it.

Iran's foreign ministry summoned Sweden's charge d'affaires on Thursday to condemn what it said was an insult to the most sacred Islamic sanctities.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<meta charset="UTF-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-police-allow-quran-burning-protest-outside-stockholms-main-mosque-609615">Sweden police allow Quran burning protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque</a>

"Although administrative procedures to appoint a new ambassador to Sweden have ended, the process of dispatching them has been held off due to the Swedish government's issuing of a permit to desecrate the Holy Koran," Amirabdollahian said on Twitter on Sunday.&nbsp;

He did not specify how long&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;would refrain from sending an embassador to Sweden.&nbsp;

While Swedish police have rejected several recent applications for anti-Quran&nbsp;demonstrations, courts have overruled those decisions, saying they infringed freedom of speech.

In its permit for Wednesday's demonstration, Swedish police said that while it "may have foreign policy consequences", the security risks and consequences linked to a Quran&nbsp;burning were not of such a nature that the application should be rejected.

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Iran will refrain from sending a new ambassador to Sweden in protest over the burning of a Quran outside a mosque in Stockholm, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said on Sunday.

Iran will refrain from sending a new ambassador to Sweden in protest over the burning of a Quran outside a mosque in Stockholm, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said on Sunday. A man tore up and burned a Quran outside Stockholm's central mosque on Wednesday, the first day of the Muslim Eid al Adha holidays. Swedish police charged the man who burned the holy book with agitation against an ethnic or national group. In a newspaper interview, he described himself as an Iraqi refugee seeking to ban it. Iran's foreign ministry summoned Sweden's charge d'affaires on Thursday to condemn what it said was an insult to the most sacred Islamic sanctities. Also read | Sweden police allow Quran burning protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque "Although administrative procedures to appoint a new ambassador to Sweden have ended, the process of dispatching them has been held off due to the Swedish government's issuing of a permit to desecrate the Holy Koran," Amirabdollahian said on Twitter on Sunday. He did not specify how long Iran would refrain from sending an embassador to Sweden. While Swedish police have rejected several recent applications for anti-Quran demonstrations, courts have overruled those decisions, saying they infringed freedom of speech. In its permit for Wednesday's demonstration, Swedish police said that while it "may have foreign policy consequences", the security risks and consequences linked to a Quran burning were not of such a nature that the application should be rejected. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iran holds off sending ambassador to Sweden in protest over Quran incident

Israel&nbsp;has approved the purchase of a third squadron of F-35&nbsp;stealth&nbsp;fighter&nbsp;jets&nbsp;in a&nbsp;deal&nbsp;worth $3 billion, the Ministry of Defence said on Sunday (July 2).

The additional&nbsp;25&nbsp;aircraft manufactured by Lockheed Martin will bring the number of F-35s in&nbsp;Israel's air force to 75, the ministry said, adding that the&nbsp;deal&nbsp;will be financed through the defence aid package&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;receives from the United States.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/palestinian-was-trying-to-smuggle-sperm-out-of-prison-caught-by-israeli-guards-609817">Palestinian trying to smuggle sperm out of prison caught by Israeli guards</a>

Israel&nbsp;was the first country outside the United States to acquire the F-35. In May 2018 its air force chief said&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;was the first to use the plane in combat.

The F-35&nbsp;is also known as the Joint Strike Fighter and in&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;by its Hebrew name “Adir” (Mighty).

Lockheed Martin and engine manufacturer Pratt &amp; Whitney have agreed to involve&nbsp;Israeli defence companies in the production of aircraft components, the&nbsp;Israeli ministry added.

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Israel has approved the purchase of a third squadron of F-35 stealth fighter jets in a deal worth $3 billion, the Ministry of Defence said on Sunday (July 2). The additional 25 aircraft manufactured by Lockheed Martin will bring the number of F-35s in Israel's air force to 75, the ministry said, adding that the deal will be financed through the defence aid package Israel receives from the United States.

Israel has approved the purchase of a third squadron of F-35 stealth fighter jets in a deal worth $3 billion, the Ministry of Defence said on Sunday (July 2). The additional 25 aircraft manufactured by Lockheed Martin will bring the number of F-35s in Israel's air force to 75, the ministry said, adding that the deal will be financed through the defence aid package Israel receives from the United States. Also read | Palestinian trying to smuggle sperm out of prison caught by Israeli guards Israel was the first country outside the United States to acquire the F-35. In May 2018 its air force chief said Israel was the first to use the plane in combat. The F-35 is also known as the Joint Strike Fighter and in Israel by its Hebrew name “Adir” (Mighty). Lockheed Martin and engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney have agreed to involve Israeli defence companies in the production of aircraft components, the Israeli ministry added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel to buy 25 more F-35 stealth jets in $3 billion deal

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad cemented his return to the Arab fold Tuesday (May 9) after Saudi Arabia said it will reopen its diplomatic mission in Syria. The announcement was made by the Saudi foreign ministry and later confirmed by Damascus. This also comes days after Syria was readmitted into the Arab League ending its years-long suspension.

The restoration of diplomatic ties happened nearly a decade after Riyadh withdrew its representatives during the early stages of Syria's civil war.&nbsp;

The statement by Riyadh's foreign ministry said that the Kingdom has decided "to resume the work of its diplomatic mission in Syria," as quoted by the official Saudi Press Agency, adding that it would seek to "develop joint Arab action".

Meanwhile, the Syrian news agency SANA, also citing officials, reported, "The Syrian Arab Republic has decided to resume the work of its diplomatic mission in Saudi Arabia."&nbsp;

The contact between the two countries gathered momentum after the landmark China-brokered deal to re-establish ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran, reported Reuters citing a regional source aligned with Damascus.

Tehran is reportedly a key ally of Assad. However, the United States, an ally of Saudi Arabia along with Arab countries, is opposed to initiatives taken by regional countries to normalise ties with Assad.&nbsp;

The US has cited his government's brutality during the conflict. Notably, Assad had been politically isolated in the region since Syria's war began and it was not until this week's diplomatic activity which has resumed ties that shifted the political landscape.

The agreement also comes ahead of the pan-Arab bloc's next summit which will take place on May 19. Last month, Assad met Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan for the first time since the war broke out in 2011.&nbsp;

In 2012, Saudi Arabia severed ties with Assad's government while it has also long hailed Assad's ouster, backing Syrian rebels in earlier stages of the war.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Syrian President Bashar al-Assad cemented his return to the Arab fold Tuesday (May 9) after Saudi Arabia said it will reopen its diplomatic mission in Syria. The announcement was made by the Saudi foreign ministry and later confirmed by Damascus.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad cemented his return to the Arab fold Tuesday (May 9) after Saudi Arabia said it will reopen its diplomatic mission in Syria. The announcement was made by the Saudi foreign ministry and later confirmed by Damascus. This also comes days after Syria was readmitted into the Arab League ending its years-long suspension. The restoration of diplomatic ties happened nearly a decade after Riyadh withdrew its representatives during the early stages of Syria's civil war. The statement by Riyadh's foreign ministry said that the Kingdom has decided "to resume the work of its diplomatic mission in Syria," as quoted by the official Saudi Press Agency, adding that it would seek to "develop joint Arab action". Meanwhile, the Syrian news agency SANA, also citing officials, reported, "The Syrian Arab Republic has decided to resume the work of its diplomatic mission in Saudi Arabia." The contact between the two countries gathered momentum after the landmark China-brokered deal to re-establish ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran, reported Reuters citing a regional source aligned with Damascus. Tehran is reportedly a key ally of Assad. However, the United States, an ally of Saudi Arabia along with Arab countries, is opposed to initiatives taken by regional countries to normalise ties with Assad. The US has cited his government's brutality during the conflict. Notably, Assad had been politically isolated in the region since Syria's war began and it was not until this week's diplomatic activity which has resumed ties that shifted the political landscape. The agreement also comes ahead of the pan-Arab bloc's next summit which will take place on May 19. Last month, Assad met Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan for the first time since the war broke out in 2011. In 2012, Saudi Arabia severed ties with Assad's government while it has also long hailed Assad's ouster, backing Syrian rebels in earlier stages of the war. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi Arabia, Syria to restore diplomatic ties after a decade, reopen missions

At least 20 migrants have gone missing off the coast of Tunisia, as they tried to cross the treacherous Mediterranean to Italy, the judicial officials informed on Saturday.

At least 20 migrants have gone missing off the coast of Tunisia, as they tried to cross the treacherous Mediterranean to Italy, the judicial officials informed on Saturday. The authorities said their boat sank while trying to Although the coast guard managed to rescue 17 others from the same boat off the southern city of Sfax, the others were still untraceable. Of the 17 saved, two are in critical condition, said Sfax court judge Faouzi Masmousdi. Recent months have seen a great influx of migrants using Tunisia as the main departure point to enter Europe. earlier most migrants attempting to leave the conflict-ridden zones of Africa and the Middle East used to take the Libya route to enter the continent. Notably, Tunisia's coast lies just 150 kilometres (90 miles) from the Italian island of Lampedusa which makes it a lucrative option for the migrants to take the additional risk. ALSO READ | Tunisia boat tragedy: 14 people from sub-Saharan Africa nations drown, 54 rescued Over 14,000 migrants have been either intercepted or rescued in the first three months of the year trying to enter Europe. The number is five times the figures recorded during the same period last year. “Coast guard patrols prevent 501 clandestine attempts to cross the maritime border and rescued 14,406 [refugees] including 13,138 from sub-Saharan African countries,” informed the government. ALSO WATCH | Italy Boat Tragedy: 63 bodies found, 36 still missing × Notably, this is not the first instance when an illegal boat crossing has gone awry for the migrants. Earlier this year, the Tunisian authorities discovered a sunken boat with 14 dead bodies while rescuing 54. "Coast guard patrols intercepted a group whose boat had sunk, rescuing 54 people of various sub-Saharan African nationalities, and recovering 14 bodies," read a statement released at the time. However, seeing the large influx of migrants, Tunisia President Kais Saied in February ordered officials to take "urgent measures" to tackle irregular migration, claiming that "a criminal plot" was underway to change Tunisia's demography. ALSO READ | Tunisia’s interior minister, a close aide of President Saied, resigns Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Nabil Ammar pleaded the international community that his country needed funding and equipment to better protect its borders. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

At least 20 migrants missing after boat drowns off Tunisian coast, 17 rescued

The foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia on Thursday met in Beijing where they pledged to work together for establishing "security and stability" in the turbulent Middle East following a surprise deal, brokered by China.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan held talks after which they released a joint statement in which both countries promised to continue working together for improving their ties.

"The two sides emphasised the importance of following up on the implementation of the Beijing Agreement and its activation in a way that expands mutual trust and the fields of cooperation and helps create security, stability and prosperity in the region," the statement read.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-saudi-arabia-restore-ties-as-china-brokered-deal-outfoxes-west-570766">Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West</a>

The two ministers agreed to reopen their diplomatic missions and proceed with taking the necessary measures to open embassies in Riyadh and Tehran, and their general consulates in Jeddah and Mashhad.&nbsp;The leaders also decided to continue co-ordination between the technical teams on both sides to discuss ways to enhance co-operation&nbsp;by including the resumption of flights, mutual visits by official delegations and private sector, and facilitating the granting of visas to citizens, including Umrah visas. 
 
In March, Tehran and Riyadh had announced an agreement, brokered by Beijing, to restore their relations which had remained severed for seven years, when Saudi diplomatic missions were attacked by protesters in Iran.

In a statement, Iran's foreign ministry said that the two sides “negotiated and exchanged opinions with the emphasis on the official resumption of bilateral relations and the executive steps towards the reopening of the embassies and consulates of the two countries”.

The footage of leaders shaking hands and chatting with smiling faces in front of Saudi and Iranian flags was aired by the Saudi state TV channel Al Ekhbariya.

In state broadcaster CCTV's readout, Beijing hailed "the first official meeting between the foreign ministers of the two countries in more than seven years" and "active mediation" of China in the diplomacy.

WATCH | In China, Saudi &amp; Iran foreign ministers discuss reopening embassies and consulates | Details

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Meanwhile, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, in a press briefing, said, "China will work with Middle Eastern countries to implement global security initiatives, global development initiatives and global civilisation initiatives to promote security, stability, development, prosperity, tolerance and harmony.”

As per last month's agreement, the two countries will reopen their missions and embassies within two months and implement economic co-operation and security deals which have signed more than 20 years ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia on Thursday met in Beijing where they pledged to work together for establishing "security and stability" in the turbulent Middle East following a surprise deal, brokered by China.

The foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia on Thursday met in Beijing where they pledged to work together for establishing "security and stability" in the turbulent Middle East following a surprise deal, brokered by China. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan held talks after which they released a joint statement in which both countries promised to continue working together for improving their ties. "The two sides emphasised the importance of following up on the implementation of the Beijing Agreement and its activation in a way that expands mutual trust and the fields of cooperation and helps create security, stability and prosperity in the region," the statement read. ALSO READ | Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West The two ministers agreed to reopen their diplomatic missions and proceed with taking the necessary measures to open embassies in Riyadh and Tehran, and their general consulates in Jeddah and Mashhad. The leaders also decided to continue co-ordination between the technical teams on both sides to discuss ways to enhance co-operation by including the resumption of flights, mutual visits by official delegations and private sector, and facilitating the granting of visas to citizens, including Umrah visas. In March, Tehran and Riyadh had announced an agreement, brokered by Beijing, to restore their relations which had remained severed for seven years, when Saudi diplomatic missions were attacked by protesters in Iran. In a statement, Iran's foreign ministry said that the two sides “negotiated and exchanged opinions with the emphasis on the official resumption of bilateral relations and the executive steps towards the reopening of the embassies and consulates of the two countries”. The footage of leaders shaking hands and chatting with smiling faces in front of Saudi and Iranian flags was aired by the Saudi state TV channel Al Ekhbariya. In state broadcaster CCTV's readout, Beijing hailed "the first official meeting between the foreign ministers of the two countries in more than seven years" and "active mediation" of China in the diplomacy. WATCH | In China, Saudi & Iran foreign ministers discuss reopening embassies and consulates | Details Meanwhile, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, in a press briefing, said, "China will work with Middle Eastern countries to implement global security initiatives, global development initiatives and global civilisation initiatives to promote security, stability, development, prosperity, tolerance and harmony.” As per last month's agreement, the two countries will reopen their missions and embassies within two months and implement economic co-operation and security deals which have signed more than 20 years ago. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Iran, Saudi Arabia agree to resume flights, bilateral visits; work for ‘security, stability’ in Middle East

Foreign Ministers of Saudi Arabia and Iran have agreed to hold bilateral talks to mend ties between the two Middle Eastern countries. How will the meeting change the regional dynamics? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Saudi-Iran to mend ties after 7 years

English Premier League (EPL) giant and probably one of the most celebrated football clubs around the world, Manchester United, is attracting a lot of eyes ever since its owners made it public that they were looking for strategic alternatives for the development of the club. Since then, multiple groups have shown interest in the club for ownership. Many groups from&nbsp; Middle East countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia are particularly interested in the club. According to ESPN, multiple consortiums of investors from the Middle East are expected to confirm their interest by submitting proof of fund for potential ownership, partial or complete, of the Red Devils.

Among the interesting parties are a consortium led by Qatar's sovereign wealth fund —&nbsp;Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), a bid by private investors backed by QIA, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has also encouraged private investors of the country. Apart from that, US-based asset manager Oaktree Capital and British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliff, CEO of chemical company INEOS have also shown interest in buying Manchester United.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-and-manchester-united-play-out-a-thrilling-draw-as-juventus-held-in-europa-league-562902">Barcelona and Manchester United play out a thrilling draw as Juventus held in Europa League</a>

Glazer family, the current owners, who have owned the club since 2005, had in November last year shared their interest of seeking outside investment in the club. Merchant bank The Raine Group is handling the process on their behalf and has fielded the enquiries about full takeover and smaller investment.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chetan-sharma-quits-bcci-following-sting-operation-twitter-folded-with-reactions-and-memes-562955">Chetan Sharma quits BCCI following sting operation: Twitter flooded with reactions and memes</a>

Talking about the price tag, the Glazers peg the club at $7.2 billion but the industry experts, as per ESPN, believe that the realistic price tag is around $5.4 billion. Meanwhile, Glazers are also split on the best way forward as both Joel and Avaram Glazer want to retain control, according to ESPN.&nbsp;

The National Football League's (NFL) Denver Broncos are the most expensive sports franchise in the world after being sold for $4.65 billion last year. In EPL, Man-U's rival Chelsea were sold for $3.01 billion in May last year.

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English Premier League (EPL) giant and probably one of the most celebrated football clubs around the world, Manchester United, is attracting a lot of eyes ever since its owners made it public that they were looking for strategic alternatives for the development of the club.

English Premier League (EPL) giant and probably one of the most celebrated football clubs around the world, Manchester United, is attracting a lot of eyes ever since its owners made it public that they were looking for strategic alternatives for the development of the club. Since then, multiple groups have shown interest in the club for ownership. Many groups from Middle East countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia are particularly interested in the club. According to ESPN, multiple consortiums of investors from the Middle East are expected to confirm their interest by submitting proof of fund for potential ownership, partial or complete, of the Red Devils. Among the interesting parties are a consortium led by Qatar's sovereign wealth fund — Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), a bid by private investors backed by QIA, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has also encouraged private investors of the country. Apart from that, US-based asset manager Oaktree Capital and British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliff, CEO of chemical company INEOS have also shown interest in buying Manchester United. Also Read: Barcelona and Manchester United play out a thrilling draw as Juventus held in Europa League Glazer family, the current owners, who have owned the club since 2005, had in November last year shared their interest of seeking outside investment in the club. Merchant bank The Raine Group is handling the process on their behalf and has fielded the enquiries about full takeover and smaller investment. Read More: Chetan Sharma quits BCCI following sting operation: Twitter flooded with reactions and memes Talking about the price tag, the Glazers peg the club at $7.2 billion but the industry experts, as per ESPN, believe that the realistic price tag is around $5.4 billion. Meanwhile, Glazers are also split on the best way forward as both Joel and Avaram Glazer want to retain control, according to ESPN. The National Football League's (NFL) Denver Broncos are the most expensive sports franchise in the world after being sold for $4.65 billion last year. In EPL, Man-U's rival Chelsea were sold for $3.01 billion in May last year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Premier League: Multiple bidders from Middle East interested in buying Manchester United

Amid the soaring tensions between Israelis and Palestinians, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is headed to Egypt at the start of his West Asia trip, where he will reportedly try to de-escalate the situation.

Antony Blinken expected to discuss regional issues with Egyptian President

Supported by tensions in the West Asia following a drone attack in Iran and Beijing’s pledge over the weekend to promote a consumption recovery, all prices climbed in early.

World Business Watch: Middle East tensions back oil price increase

When you say Middle East, you probably are thinking of nations like Saudi Arabia , U.A.E, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Kuwait, Qatar. But these same countries are known as West Asian nations as well. So then why do we call them Middle East? Is it Middle East or West Asia?

Is it West Asia or Middle East?

Iranian authorities, on Sunday, executed four people accused of working for Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency, said the state-run news agency, IRNA. This comes after Tehran has also blamed Israel as one of the countries involved in the recent anti-hijab protests in the country and accused them of plotting a civil war in Iran.&nbsp;

Iran’s state media also said on Wednesday, that the country’s Supreme Court upheld the death sentence against those accused of “the crime of cooperating with the intelligence services of the Zionist regime and for kidnapping”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-months-after-nationwide-protests-iran-scraps-morality-police-units-539912">After two months of nationwide anti-hijab protests, Iran finally disbands morality police</a>

Furthermore, the media report citing the country’s Revolutionary Guard said that they have arrested the network of people for their link to the Israeli spy agency and also past criminal records as they were allegedly attempting to disrupt the country’s security.&nbsp;

The four executed men were identified by the state news agency as Hossein Ordoukhanzadeh, Shahin Imani Mahmoudabadi, Milad Ashrafi and Manouchehr Shahbandi. On the other hand, three other members of the group were sentenced to five to 10 years in prison but were not identified.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/zelensky-israels-neutrality-spurred-russia-iran-ties-528356">Zelensky: Israel’s neutrality spurred Russia-Iran ties</a>

The accused were also charged with stealing and destroying public and private property, said the media report. While the authorities alleged that they had weapons and received wages from the Israeli spy agency in cryptocurrency. Notably, reports suggest that the Iranian authorities have no evidence for the alleged crimes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-protester-celebrating-irans-world-cup-exit-was-shot-dead-say-reports-538918">&nbsp;A protester celebrating Iran's World Cup exit was shot dead, say reports</a>

Another media report said that the detainees had been arrested in June, earlier this year, after a joint cooperation between the country’s Ministry of Intelligence and the Revolutionary Guards, and were sentenced on charges related to “intelligence cooperation with Israel.”&nbsp;

 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Iranian authorities, on Sunday, executed four people accused of working for Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency, said the state-run news agency, IRNA. This comes after Tehran has also blamed Israel as one of the countries involved in the recent anti-hijab protests in the country and accused them of plotting a civil war in Iran.

Iranian authorities, on Sunday, executed four people accused of working for Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency, said the state-run news agency, IRNA. This comes after Tehran has also blamed Israel as one of the countries involved in the recent anti-hijab protests in the country and accused them of plotting a civil war in Iran. Iran’s state media also said on Wednesday, that the country’s Supreme Court upheld the death sentence against those accused of “the crime of cooperating with the intelligence services of the Zionist regime and for kidnapping”. ALSO READ | After two months of nationwide anti-hijab protests, Iran finally disbands morality police Furthermore, the media report citing the country’s Revolutionary Guard said that they have arrested the network of people for their link to the Israeli spy agency and also past criminal records as they were allegedly attempting to disrupt the country’s security. The four executed men were identified by the state news agency as Hossein Ordoukhanzadeh, Shahin Imani Mahmoudabadi, Milad Ashrafi and Manouchehr Shahbandi. On the other hand, three other members of the group were sentenced to five to 10 years in prison but were not identified. ALSO WATCH | Zelensky: Israel’s neutrality spurred Russia-Iran ties The accused were also charged with stealing and destroying public and private property, said the media report. While the authorities alleged that they had weapons and received wages from the Israeli spy agency in cryptocurrency. Notably, reports suggest that the Iranian authorities have no evidence for the alleged crimes. ALSO READ | A protester celebrating Iran's World Cup exit was shot dead, say reports Another media report said that the detainees had been arrested in June, earlier this year, after a joint cooperation between the country’s Ministry of Intelligence and the Revolutionary Guards, and were sentenced on charges related to “intelligence cooperation with Israel.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iran executes four people accused of cooperating with Israel’s spy agency

According to the Syrian state news agency SANA, four soldiers were killed and one wounded in Israeli “air aggression” on military posts in central and coastal regions of Syria, on early Saturday. The report quoted an unidentified Syrian military official. On the other hand, the Israeli military has declined to comment.&nbsp;

“At approximately 6:30 this morning (local time), the Israeli enemy carried out an air aggression over the Mediterranean Sea, from the direction of Banias, targeting some posts in the central and coastal region,” said the military source. The report added that Syrian air defences countered the missile attack by the Israeli warplanes flying over the Mediterranean Sea and suffered from material damage.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-strikes-against-syria-after-missile-attack-451589">Israel launches strikes against Syria after missile attack</a>

Reportedly, Israel has been mounting attacks on Syria for years now against what it has described as Iranian and Iran-backed forces. Furthermore, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights which is a British-based war monitor said that the attacks were reportedly aimed at pro-Iranian groups in the provinces of Homs and Hama, and their ammunition sites. It added that several explosions were also heard in Latakia, a coastal province.&nbsp;

This comes days after Israeli missiles hit the Shayrat air base, in Syria's Homs province killing two soldiers and injuring three, which reports suggest were being used by the Iranian air force.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-airstrikes-in-syria-said-to-hit-iranian-sites-near-russian-naval-base-507278">Israeli airstrikes in Syria said to hit Iranian sites near Russian naval base</a>

In recent months, Israel has intensified targets on Syrian airports and air bases to disrupt Iran’s aerial supply lines used to deliver arms to allies in Syria and Lebanon, including Lebanon’s Iran-backed Hezbollah, reports suggest. The supposed Iran-allied militant group has sent thousands of fighters to support Syrian President Bashar Assad’s forces.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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According to the Syrian state news agency SANA, four soldiers were killed and one wounded in Israeli “air aggression” on military posts in central and coastal regions of Syria, on early Saturday.

According to the Syrian state news agency SANA, four soldiers were killed and one wounded in Israeli “air aggression” on military posts in central and coastal regions of Syria, on early Saturday. The report quoted an unidentified Syrian military official. On the other hand, the Israeli military has declined to comment. “At approximately 6:30 this morning (local time), the Israeli enemy carried out an air aggression over the Mediterranean Sea, from the direction of Banias, targeting some posts in the central and coastal region,” said the military source. The report added that Syrian air defences countered the missile attack by the Israeli warplanes flying over the Mediterranean Sea and suffered from material damage. ALSO READ: Israel launches strikes against Syria after missile attack Reportedly, Israel has been mounting attacks on Syria for years now against what it has described as Iranian and Iran-backed forces. Furthermore, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights which is a British-based war monitor said that the attacks were reportedly aimed at pro-Iranian groups in the provinces of Homs and Hama, and their ammunition sites. It added that several explosions were also heard in Latakia, a coastal province. This comes days after Israeli missiles hit the Shayrat air base, in Syria's Homs province killing two soldiers and injuring three, which reports suggest were being used by the Iranian air force. ALSO WATCH: Israeli airstrikes in Syria said to hit Iranian sites near Russian naval base In recent months, Israel has intensified targets on Syrian airports and air bases to disrupt Iran’s aerial supply lines used to deliver arms to allies in Syria and Lebanon, including Lebanon’s Iran-backed Hezbollah, reports suggest. The supposed Iran-allied militant group has sent thousands of fighters to support Syrian President Bashar Assad’s forces. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Four Syrian soldiers killed, one wounded after Israeli airstrikes: Report

West Asia and Eastern Mediterranean are heating twice as fast as the global average, according to a new study conducted under the aegis of The Cyprus Institute’s Climate and Atmosphere Research Center and the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry.

West Asia and Eastern Mediterranean are heating twice as fast as the global average, according to a new study conducted under the aegis of The Cyprus Institute’s Climate and Atmosphere Research Center and the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry. Reportedly, the study reveals that the regions in the aforementioned geographical area are expected to witness 'unprecedented' heat waves. Furthermore, water scarcity caused due to rainfall shortage, longer-lasting and more severe droughts might impact the region's 4000 million populace. The report covered areas stretching from Greece and Egypt in the West to Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Bahrain, Kuwait, UAE as well as Iran in the east. It stated that the region witnessed an average increase of 0.45 C per decade from 1981-2019 when the global average stood at 0.27 C only. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker | Extreme heat hits Iraq and Saudi Arabia × If the changes are not clocked in quickly, the region might be heating by 5 C in the coming decades, making human survival extremely difficult. “This would imply severe challenges for coastal infrastructure and agriculture and can lead to the salinization of coastal aquifers," said Dr George Zittis, co-author of the report. Not only is the region becoming a victim of climate change, but it is also contributing immensely to the problem. The study states that oil-rich West Asia is expected to overtake European Union as the biggest emitter of greenhouse gases. Read more: Is climate change affecting wine's flavour? The study comes ahead of UN's Climate Change Conference, more colloquially known as the COP27 climate summit scheduled to take place in Egypt later this year. The scientists authoring the study have argued that strong collaboration among the countries is absolutely necessary if they are to cope with extreme climatic conditions. "Since many of the regional outcomes of climate change are transboundary, stronger collaboration among the countries is indispensable to cope with the expected adverse impacts." said another author of the study. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

West Asia, East Mediterranean heating twice as fast as the global average: Study

The farmers in Castilla-La Mancha in central Spain are known to farm olives and vines but they are slowly moving towards a cash crop for quick profits. The last few months have seen them replanting their fields with pistachios – a crop that is worth ten times the value of olives in the market.

“I used to farm cereals, olives and vines but I’ve abandoned them all in order to grow pistachios,” says Gustavo Adolfo Galvez, who has a pistachio plantation near Toledo, told The Guardian. “[They are] a lot more profitable and cheaper to produce, and it’s meant a lot more farmers can survive.” 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/risk-of-hydrogen-leakage-at-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-ukraine-510772">Ukraine warns of hydrogen leakage risk at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant</a>

Galvez also explained that while olives go for 65-85 cents per kg, pistachios fetch around €6-8. 
 
Pistachios can withstand drought – an important factor in La Mancha – but need plentiful water during the nut-forming stage.

The idea of farming pistachio actually came from the regional institute for agricultural research and development which was set up by the regional government way back in 1986. They looked for alternative crop options for the farmers and decided that pistachios were their best option.

“We spent the next 10 years researching alternative crops to the three or four that are already grown here,” José Francisco Couceiro López of the regional institute told The Guardian.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-floods-in-pakistan-cause-major-damage-to-life-appeals-for-international-assistance-510025" hreflang="en">In pics | Flood havoc in Pakistan; thousands forced to flee their homes</a>

&nbsp;“Once we moved from theory to practice, we discarded practically all the options aside from pistachio. The pistachio almost magically suits the climate in Castilla-La Mancha. It can withstand the heat and the cold, and it can thrive in poor, shallow soil,” he explained.

Pistachios are not native to Spain and as a result, the seeds are mainly imported from the Middle East.

The farmers in Castilla-La Mancha in central Spain are known to farm olives and vines but they are slowly moving towards a cash crop for quick profits. The last few months have seen them replanting their fields with pistachios – a crop that is worth ten times the value of olives in the market.

The farmers in Castilla-La Mancha in central Spain are known to farm olives and vines but they are slowly moving towards a cash crop for quick profits. The last few months have seen them replanting their fields with pistachios – a crop that is worth ten times the value of olives in the market. “I used to farm cereals, olives and vines but I’ve abandoned them all in order to grow pistachios,” says Gustavo Adolfo Galvez, who has a pistachio plantation near Toledo, told The Guardian. “[They are] a lot more profitable and cheaper to produce, and it’s meant a lot more farmers can survive.” Also read | Ukraine warns of hydrogen leakage risk at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant Galvez also explained that while olives go for 65-85 cents per kg, pistachios fetch around €6-8. Pistachios can withstand drought – an important factor in La Mancha – but need plentiful water during the nut-forming stage. The idea of farming pistachio actually came from the regional institute for agricultural research and development which was set up by the regional government way back in 1986. They looked for alternative crop options for the farmers and decided that pistachios were their best option. “We spent the next 10 years researching alternative crops to the three or four that are already grown here,” José Francisco Couceiro López of the regional institute told The Guardian. Also read | In pics | Flood havoc in Pakistan; thousands forced to flee their homes “Once we moved from theory to practice, we discarded practically all the options aside from pistachio. The pistachio almost magically suits the climate in Castilla-La Mancha. It can withstand the heat and the cold, and it can thrive in poor, shallow soil,” he explained. Pistachios are not native to Spain and as a result, the seeds are mainly imported from the Middle East.

Spanish farmers ditch olives, vines for more lucrative, drought-resistant pistachios

Joe Biden is on his first presidential visit to Israel. From Israel, Biden heads to Saudi Arabia. Biden says the trip is about Israel's security, not oil. Palki Sharma brings you the latest.

Gravitas: Joe Biden in Israel

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