Welcome to Beyond World with Rhythm Sharma. Here are the latest international, national and regional headlines.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has acknowledged that Iranian citizens are facing numerous problems as the United States imposes a new wave of sanctions aimed at further isolating Iran's economy.

Tensions remain high around the Israel-Gaza conflict as deadly air strikes in Gaza raise fresh questions over whether US diplomatic efforts can advance a proposed long-term ceasefire in the Palestinian territory.

In Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy welcomes Nordic and Baltic leaders in Kyiv as the country marks National Flag Day.

India-China relations are also in focus, with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval scheduled to visit China for a meeting of the Special Representatives on the boundary issue with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

In Indian politics, BJP president Nitin Nabin holds an intensive meeting with party office-bearers to discuss organisational matters and strategy ahead of high-stakes assembly elections expected in seven states next year.

Delhi has stepped up health vigilance amid a rise in swine flu cases, with the city's health minister issuing directives to hospitals and officials.

In Belgium, around 700 people gathered near Bernes-sur-Oise following a call by organisations focused on bird protection and environmental concerns.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is facing challenges in exporting oil through the Red Sea as Houthi threats disrupt shipping. Riyadh has shifted some crude exports north via Yanbu, while Egypt is using alternative routes to bypass the disruption and maintain oil exports.

Watch the full bulletin for the latest developments in global politics, West Asia, India-China relations, Indian politics, health alerts, environmental protests and the international energy market.

Iran Sanctions | Gaza Strikes | India-China Talks | Ukraine Crisis | Delhi Swine Flu | Saudi Oil

Turkey and Israel are locked in a fresh diplomatic confrontation after Ankara reportedly sought an Interpol Red Notice for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the interception of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla.

The dispute centres on the Global Sumud Flotilla, which sailed toward Gaza carrying hundreds of activists before Israeli forces intercepted the vessels in the Mediterranean and detained those on board.

Turkey has accused Netanyahu and others of serious crimes, while Israel has rejected the allegations and sharply attacked the Turkish government.

The wider controversy comes as Britain, Canada and Australia condemn Israel’s decision to close a probe into the 2024 strike that killed seven World Central Kitchen workers in Gaza.

Turkey Seeks Interpol Red Notice For Netanyahu | Israel-Turkey Row Escalates Over Gaza Flotilla

The occupied West Bank is witnessing a sharp rise in violence by extremist Jewish settlers, with Israeli security data cited in the report showing hundreds of attacks during the first half of 2026. Palestinians describe repeated harassment, attacks, and attempts to disrupt access to essential services.

The report also highlights a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where doctors say cancer patients are dying at significantly higher rates than before the war. With Gaza's only specialized cancer facility destroyed and thousands of patients requiring advanced treatment, access to chemotherapy and medical evacuation remains a major challenge.

This report examines the surge in West Bank settler violence, the impact on Palestinian communities, and the growing healthcare crisis facing cancer patients in Gaza.

West Bank Violence Escalates | Settler Attacks Surge as Gaza Cancer Patients Struggle for Treatment

Violence has flared once again in the occupied West Bank after Israeli settlers allegedly set fire to two mosques and vandalized Palestinian property in the village of Qusra. The Israeli military says troops were deployed to search for the attackers, but the suspects had already fled. The latest unrest comes days after deadly settler attacks near Nablus that left Palestinians and Israeli security personnel dead. Israeli forces also carried out widespread raids across the occupied West Bank, arresting dozens of Palestinians, while clashes erupted as troops fired tear gas at protesters and journalists.

Israeli settler violence escalates in West Bank | Mosques burned, dozens arrested | West Asia Crisis

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (September 17) during a joint press conference along with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that TikTok helped him in his presidential campaign. He said, “We will speak to President Xi on Friday (September 18) regarding this issue. TikTok helped me a lot with my presidential campaign. I like TikTok, it has tremendous value. I used TikTok very legitimately and it did a good job for me.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-putin-let-me-down-trump-expresses-disappointment-amid-failing-russia-ukraine-peace-talks-as-uk-pm-demands-more-pressure-on-moscow-1758204605950">'Putin let me down': Trump in UK, admits Russia-Ukraine war is not easy to solve; UK PM demands 'more pressure' on Moscow</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&quot;We have a deal on TikTok ... We have a group of very big companies that want to buy it,&quot; says US President Donald Trump <a href="https://t.co/bSoIQq5lub">pic.twitter.com/bSoIQq5lub</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1967961221912727583?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On Tuesday (September 16), President Donald Trump announced that the deadline for TikTok's potential ban in the United States would be extended again, this time until December 2025. He also said that a deal had been reached between the US and China over TikTok, with an ‘American buyer’ set to be revealed soon. The US has long insisted that TikTok's ownership should be transferred to an American company due to concerns over national security.&nbsp;Earlier, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent mentioned that Trump was prepared to “let TikTok go dark” while finalising the agreement. Speaking to reporters ahead of his trip to the UK, Trump confirmed that the deal was in place, adding that he would speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday, September 19, to finalize the details. "We have a deal on TikTok, I’ve reached an agreement with China, and I’ll be speaking to President Xi on Friday (September 19) to confirm everything," Trump told the press.&nbsp;This announcement came just one day after Bessent confirmed that a "framework" agreement had been established following two days of discussions with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Madrid. Bessent noted that the Wednesday (September 17), deadline for the TikTok shutdown had prompted the Chinese government to work toward a resolution, with a potential 90-day extension to finalise the deal. If this happens, it would mark the third time the deadline has been pushed back, extending the total delay to 270 days.&nbsp;&nbsp;While Bessent did not offer further details about the talks, he emphasized that the final agreement would maintain the “Chinese characteristics” of TikTok while addressing US concerns about national security. He also reiterated that Trump was prepared to allow the app to go offline if necessary during the negotiations. This marks the second time this year that both sides have claimed to be on the verge of a deal, following a previous attempt in March that ultimately fell through.

'I like TikTok. It helped me with my presidential campaign': US President Donald Trump ahead of deal with China

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (September 17) during a joint press conference along with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that TikTok helped him in his presidential campaign. He said, “We will speak to President Xi on Friday (September 18) regarding this issue. TikTok helped me a lot with my presidential campaign. I like TikTok, it has tremendous value. I used TikTok very legitimately and it did a good job for me.” Also Read: 'Putin let me down': Trump in UK, admits Russia-Ukraine war is not easy to solve; UK PM demands 'more pressure' on Moscow

US President Donald Trump during a joint press conference along with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that TikTok helped him in his presidential campaign and that he will speak to President Xi on Friday regarding the issue

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has revoked the visas of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and 80 other Palestinian Authority (PA) officials ahead of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting. The move has been strongly criticised as a violation of international norms. Only representatives stationed at the Palestinian Authority’s UN mission have been granted exceptions and will retain their ability to operate in New York under the US-UN host country agreement. The visa cancellations are part of the Trump administration’s broader strategy to impose pressure on the Palestinian leadership amid Israel's Gaza takeover plan. The Palestinian leadership reacted to the decision, stating that it is a hindrance to the peace process. However, critics have also said that this could be American tactics to prevent nations from recognising Palestine.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-joins-france-uk-to-recognise-palestine-in-september-new-zealand-may-join-soon-israel-alienated-1754882524882">Australia joins France, UK to recognise Palestine as State, New Zealand may join soon</a><h2>Revoking the Palestinian visas</h2>Rubio ordered that new visa applications from Palestinian officials, including those associated with the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), be denied. The State Department justified the decision, citing national security and accusing the PA and PLO of failing to meet obligations, including the rejection of terrorism and its promotion. Without naming a state department official, Axios revealed that the decision includes high-ranking Palestinian figures. Additionally, the State Department also ended a program that allowed wounded children from Gaza to receive medical treatment in the US, reportedly in response to conservative backlash online. The Palestinian leadership condemned the move, calling it a breach of US obligations under the UN Headquarters Agreement. UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric confirmed the organisation is seeking clarification, emphasising the importance of all member and observer states being able to participate in UN activities.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-joins-france-uk-to-recognise-palestine-in-september-new-zealand-may-join-soon-israel-alienated-1754882524882">Read More | Will Israel be alienated at UN?</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-bars-palestinian-leader-abbas-from-un-meet-israel-hails-move-by-trump-administration-wion-1756524563455/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-bars-palestinian-leader-abbas-from-un-meet-israel-hails-move-by-trump-administration-wion-1756524563455/embed</a><h2>Many countries to recognise Palestine at UNGA</h2>This July, France became the first country to announce that it would recognise the State of Palestine officially at the UNGA. In a domino effect of sorts, many countries followed suit. French President Emmanuel Macron justified the decision by highlighting his country's commitment to peace and said that Israel must take substantive steps to end the war and humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, and meet several other conditions, including recommitting to a viable peace process, in order to stop France from recognising a Palestinian state. Canada and Malta also said they would recognise Palestine at UNGA. More recently, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the 'two-state solution is humanity's best hope' and said Australia would recognise Palestine at the UNGA meeting in September.&nbsp;While Trump did not react to initial reports, he expressed his disappointment over Canada's announcement. He hinted that doors for a trade deal might be closed for Canada after it decides to recognise Palestine. In March, Trump imposed 25 per cent tariffs on Canada's steel and aluminium; weeks later, the same on automobiles. In June, he doubled steel and aluminium duties. Now he is threatening to tax copper at 50 per cent starting August 1. He has also said that if Canadian PM Mark Carney is not able to strike a trade deal with the US, then America will impose a 35 per cent tariff on all goods from Canada.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-baffled-after-canada-says-it-would-recognise-palestine-raises-trade-deal-here-s-what-he-threatened-1753937282043">Trump baffled after Canada says it would recognise Palestine</a>

The US revoked the visas of Palestinian President Abbas and 80 officials ahead of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The move, part of Trump’s pressure strategy, drew criticism as a breach of international norms and a setback to peace efforts, prompting UN calls for clarification

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has revoked the visas of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and 80 other Palestinian Authority (PA) officials ahead of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting. The move has been strongly criticised as a violation of international norms. Only representatives stationed at the Palestinian Authority’s UN mission have been granted exceptions and will retain their ability to operate in New York under the US-UN host country agreement. The visa cancellations are part of the Trump administration’s broader strategy to impose pressure on the Palestinian leadership amid Israel's Gaza takeover plan. The Palestinian leadership reacted to the decision, stating that it is a hindrance to the peace process. However, critics have also said that this could be American tactics to prevent nations from recognising Palestine. Read More | Australia joins France, UK to recognise Palestine as State, New Zealand may join soon Revoking the Palestinian visas Rubio ordered that new visa applications from Palestinian officials, including those associated with the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), be denied. The State Department justified the decision, citing national security and accusing the PA and PLO of failing to meet obligations, including the rejection of terrorism and its promotion. Without naming a state department official, Axios revealed that the decision includes high-ranking Palestinian figures. Additionally, the State Department also ended a program that allowed wounded children from Gaza to receive medical treatment in the US, reportedly in response to conservative backlash online. The Palestinian leadership condemned the move, calling it a breach of US obligations under the UN Headquarters Agreement. UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric confirmed the organisation is seeking clarification, emphasising the importance of all member and observer states being able to participate in UN activities. Read More | Will Israel be alienated at UN? https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-bars-palestinian-leader-abbas-from-un-meet-israel-hails-move-by-trump-administration-wion-1756524563455/embed Many countries to recognise Palestine at UNGA This July, France became the first country to announce that it would recognise the State of Palestine officially at the UNGA. In a domino effect of sorts, many countries followed suit. French President Emmanuel Macron justified the decision by highlighting his country's commitment to peace and said that Israel must take substantive steps to end the war and humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, and meet several other conditions, including recommitting to a viable peace process, in order to stop France from recognising a Palestinian state. Canada and Malta also said they would recognise Palestine at UNGA. More recently, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the 'two-state solution is humanity's best hope' and said Australia would recognise Palestine at the UNGA meeting in September. While Trump did not react to initial reports, he expressed his disappointment over Canada's announcement. He hinted that doors for a trade deal might be closed for Canada after it decides to recognise Palestine. In March, Trump imposed 25 per cent tariffs on Canada's steel and aluminium; weeks later, the same on automobiles. In June, he doubled steel and aluminium duties. Now he is threatening to tax copper at 50 per cent starting August 1. He has also said that if Canadian PM Mark Carney is not able to strike a trade deal with the US, then America will impose a 35 per cent tariff on all goods from Canada. Read More | Trump baffled after Canada says it would recognise Palestine

The US revoked the visas of Palestinian President Abbas and 80 officials ahead of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The move, part of Trump’s pressure strategy, drew criticism as a breach of international norms and a setback to peace efforts, prompting UN calls for clarification

Why US denied visas to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, 80 officials ahead of UNGA meeting

Gaza's civil defence agency said Israeli attacks killed at least 39 people on Saturday, warning that intensifying strikes on a Gaza City neighbourhood were placing its remaining residents in mortal danger.&nbsp;The latest toll comes more than a week after Israel's security cabinet approved plans to capture the Palestinian territory's largest city, following 22 months of war that have created dire humanitarian conditions.&nbsp;Civil defence spokesman Mahmud Bassal said conditions in Gaza City's Zeitun neighbourhood were rapidly deteriorating, with residents having little to no access to food and water amid heavy Israeli bombardment.&nbsp;He said that about 50,000 people were estimated to be in that area of Gaza City, "the majority of whom are without food or water" and lacking "the basic necessities of life".&nbsp;Media restrictions in Gaza and difficulties accessing swaths of the Palestinian territory mean AFP is unable to independently verify the tolls and details provided by the civil defence agency or the Israeli military.&nbsp;In recent days, Gaza City residents have told AFP of more frequent air strikes targeting residential areas, including Zeitun, while earlier this week, militant group Hamas denounced "aggressive" Israeli ground incursions.&nbsp;To Bassal, Israel was carrying out "ethnic cleansing" in Zeitun.&nbsp;Israeli officials have dismissed similar accusations before, and the military insists it abides by international law.&nbsp;The military is "committed to mitigating civilian harm during operational activity, in strict accordance with international law," it said in a statement, questioning the reliability of the death tolls provided by the civil defence agency.&nbsp;Earlier this month, the Israeli government approved plans to seize Gaza City and neighbouring camps, some of the most densely populated parts of the territory.On Friday, the Israeli military said its troops were operating in Zeitun.&nbsp;Ghassan Kashko, 40, who shelters with his family at a school building in the neighbourhood, said: “We don't know the taste of sleep.”&nbsp;He said air strikes and tank shelling were causing "explosions... that don't stop".&nbsp;Later Saturday, Hamas said in a statement that Israeli forces had been carrying out a "sustained offensive in the eastern and southern neighbourhoods of Gaza City, particularly in Zeitun".&nbsp;The group said the military was targeting the area with warplanes, artillery and drones.COGAT -- the Israeli defence ministry body responsible for civil affairs in the Palestinian territories -- said that, starting from Sunday, the military would supply more tents and shelter equipment ahead of the offensive.&nbsp;"As part of the preparations to move the population from combat zones to the southern Gaza Strip for their protection, the supply of tents and shelter equipment to Gaza will resume," it said in a statement.&nbsp;The Israeli plan to expand the war has sparked an international outcry as well as domestic opposition.&nbsp;UN-backed experts have warned of widespread famine unfolding in the territory, where Israel has drastically curtailed the amount of humanitarian aid it allows in.&nbsp;According to the civil defence agency, at least 13 of the Palestinians killed on Saturday were shot by troops as they were waiting to collect food aid near distribution sites in the north and in the south.&nbsp;The war was triggered by Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.&nbsp;Israel's offensive has killed more than 61,000 Palestinians, according to figures from the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, which the United Nations considers reliable.

Gaza's civil defence agency said Israeli attacks killed at least 39 people on Saturday, warning that intensifying strikes on a Gaza City neighbourhood were placing its remaining residents in mortal danger.

Gaza's civil defence agency said Israeli attacks killed at least 39 people on Saturday, warning that intensifying strikes on a Gaza City neighbourhood were placing its remaining residents in mortal danger. The latest toll comes more than a week after Israel's security cabinet approved plans to capture the Palestinian territory's largest city, following 22 months of war that have created dire humanitarian conditions. Civil defence spokesman Mahmud Bassal said conditions in Gaza City's Zeitun neighbourhood were rapidly deteriorating, with residents having little to no access to food and water amid heavy Israeli bombardment. He said that about 50,000 people were estimated to be in that area of Gaza City, "the majority of whom are without food or water" and lacking "the basic necessities of life". Media restrictions in Gaza and difficulties accessing swaths of the Palestinian territory mean AFP is unable to independently verify the tolls and details provided by the civil defence agency or the Israeli military. In recent days, Gaza City residents have told AFP of more frequent air strikes targeting residential areas, including Zeitun, while earlier this week, militant group Hamas denounced "aggressive" Israeli ground incursions. To Bassal, Israel was carrying out "ethnic cleansing" in Zeitun. Israeli officials have dismissed similar accusations before, and the military insists it abides by international law. The military is "committed to mitigating civilian harm during operational activity, in strict accordance with international law," it said in a statement, questioning the reliability of the death tolls provided by the civil defence agency. Earlier this month, the Israeli government approved plans to seize Gaza City and neighbouring camps, some of the most densely populated parts of the territory. On Friday, the Israeli military said its troops were operating in Zeitun. Ghassan Kashko, 40, who shelters with his family at a school building in the neighbourhood, said: “We don't know the taste of sleep.” He said air strikes and tank shelling were causing "explosions... that don't stop". Later Saturday, Hamas said in a statement that Israeli forces had been carrying out a "sustained offensive in the eastern and southern neighbourhoods of Gaza City, particularly in Zeitun". The group said the military was targeting the area with warplanes, artillery and drones. COGAT -- the Israeli defence ministry body responsible for civil affairs in the Palestinian territories -- said that, starting from Sunday, the military would supply more tents and shelter equipment ahead of the offensive. "As part of the preparations to move the population from combat zones to the southern Gaza Strip for their protection, the supply of tents and shelter equipment to Gaza will resume," it said in a statement. The Israeli plan to expand the war has sparked an international outcry as well as domestic opposition. UN-backed experts have warned of widespread famine unfolding in the territory, where Israel has drastically curtailed the amount of humanitarian aid it allows in. According to the civil defence agency, at least 13 of the Palestinians killed on Saturday were shot by troops as they were waiting to collect food aid near distribution sites in the north and in the south. The war was triggered by Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, according to an AFP tally based on official figures. Israel's offensive has killed more than 61,000 Palestinians, according to figures from the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, which the United Nations considers reliable.

Israeli officials have dismissed similar accusations before, and the military insists it abides by international law.

Gaza civil defence says Israeli fire kills 39

In yet another setback for Israel, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on August 11 (Monday) that Australia will recognise a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September. His announcement comes amid backlash faced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over his Gaza ‘takeover’ plan. Additionally, New Zealand also expressed that it is considering to recognise Palestine. New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said that the government will carefully weigh up its position over the next month on recognition of a state of Palestine.&nbsp;"A two-state solution is humanity's best hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and to bring an end to the conflict, suffering and starvation in Gaza," Albanese said at a news conference. Albanese also said that he has spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in a "long" and "civil" discussion about Australia's decision. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said it had been more than 77 years since the world promised a Palestinian state. "In the nearly two years since October 7, we have been working with the international community on breaking the cycle of violence," she said. “We can't keep waiting for the end of a peace process that has ground to a halt.”&nbsp;New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters, in a statement, said that the country will decide its position on recognising Palestine by next month. He highlighted New Zealand's support for a two-state solution and said that the formal consideration of the issue will be taken in September.&nbsp;<h2>Canada, UK, France and Malta to recognise Palestine</h2>Canada will officially recognise a Palestinian state at the United Nations in September, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Wednesday, citing recent reform commitments by the Palestinian Authority (PA) and emphasising the need to preserve the possibility of a two-state solution. "Canada has long been committed to a two-state solution, an independent, viable and sovereign Palestinian state living side by side with the State of Israel in peace and security,” Carney said during a press conference alongside Foreign Minister Anita Anand.&nbsp;This came after French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will recognise the state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September this year. In a letter to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Macron emphasised the urgency of ending the war in Gaza and protecting civilians, describing his decision as a crucial step toward achieving lasting peace in the Middle East. Macron also reaffirmed France’s support for an immediate ceasefire, the release of Israeli hostages, the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas, and long-term development efforts for a future Palestinian state.&nbsp;Following France's move, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the UK would recognise a Palestinian state in September unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the war and humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, and meets several other conditions, including recommitting to a viable peace process. Joining these countries, Malta also announced its decision to recognise Palestine at the UN General Assembly’s meeting on a two-state solution to the conflict on July 29.<h2>How many countries have recognised Palestine so far?</h2>On November 15, 1988, PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat declared Palestine an independent state, naming Jerusalem as its capital. In the aftermath, over 80 nations, primarily from the Global South, including regions across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Arab world—extended recognition. Between the late 1980s and early 1990s, nearly 20 additional countries followed suit, with another 12 joining between 2000 and 2010, mostly from Africa and South America. By 2011, all African states except Eritrea and Cameroon had recognized Palestinian statehood.&nbsp;A milestone came in 2012 when the UN General Assembly voted 138–9 (with 41 abstentions) to elevate Palestine's status to that of a non-member observer state. Sweden became the first EU member in Western Europe to recognise Palestine in 2014. More recently, on May 22, 2024, Norway, Ireland, and Spain formally recognised Palestine, prompting diplomatic backlash from Israel. Slovenia joined on June 4, while Malta and Belgium are still considering recognition. None of the G7 countries has recognised the state of Palestine. The Holy See, the governing body of the Catholic Church and Vatican City, which holds UN observer status, has also recognised Palestine.

Following the domino effect started by France, now Australia has announced that it will recognise a Palestenian state in September this year at the UN. New Zealand has also expressed its desire to recognise Palestine amid Benjamin Netanyahu's Gaza plan

In yet another setback for Israel, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on August 11 (Monday) that Australia will recognise a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September. His announcement comes amid backlash faced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over his Gaza ‘takeover’ plan. Additionally, New Zealand also expressed that it is considering to recognise Palestine. New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said that the government will carefully weigh up its position over the next month on recognition of a state of Palestine. "A two-state solution is humanity's best hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and to bring an end to the conflict, suffering and starvation in Gaza," Albanese said at a news conference. Albanese also said that he has spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in a "long" and "civil" discussion about Australia's decision. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said it had been more than 77 years since the world promised a Palestinian state. "In the nearly two years since October 7, we have been working with the international community on breaking the cycle of violence," she said. “We can't keep waiting for the end of a peace process that has ground to a halt.” New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters, in a statement, said that the country will decide its position on recognising Palestine by next month. He highlighted New Zealand's support for a two-state solution and said that the formal consideration of the issue will be taken in September. Canada, UK, France and Malta to recognise Palestine Canada will officially recognise a Palestinian state at the United Nations in September, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Wednesday, citing recent reform commitments by the Palestinian Authority (PA) and emphasising the need to preserve the possibility of a two-state solution. "Canada has long been committed to a two-state solution, an independent, viable and sovereign Palestinian state living side by side with the State of Israel in peace and security,” Carney said during a press conference alongside Foreign Minister Anita Anand. This came after French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will recognise the state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September this year. In a letter to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Macron emphasised the urgency of ending the war in Gaza and protecting civilians, describing his decision as a crucial step toward achieving lasting peace in the Middle East. Macron also reaffirmed France’s support for an immediate ceasefire, the release of Israeli hostages, the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas, and long-term development efforts for a future Palestinian state. Following France's move, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the UK would recognise a Palestinian state in September unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the war and humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, and meets several other conditions, including recommitting to a viable peace process. Joining these countries, Malta also announced its decision to recognise Palestine at the UN General Assembly’s meeting on a two-state solution to the conflict on July 29. How many countries have recognised Palestine so far? On November 15, 1988, PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat declared Palestine an independent state, naming Jerusalem as its capital. In the aftermath, over 80 nations, primarily from the Global South, including regions across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Arab world—extended recognition. Between the late 1980s and early 1990s, nearly 20 additional countries followed suit, with another 12 joining between 2000 and 2010, mostly from Africa and South America. By 2011, all African states except Eritrea and Cameroon had recognized Palestinian statehood. A milestone came in 2012 when the UN General Assembly voted 138–9 (with 41 abstentions) to elevate Palestine's status to that of a non-member observer state. Sweden became the first EU member in Western Europe to recognise Palestine in 2014. More recently, on May 22, 2024, Norway, Ireland, and Spain formally recognised Palestine, prompting diplomatic backlash from Israel. Slovenia joined on June 4, while Malta and Belgium are still considering recognition. None of the G7 countries has recognised the state of Palestine. The Holy See, the governing body of the Catholic Church and Vatican City, which holds UN observer status, has also recognised Palestine.

Following the domino effect started by France, now Australia has announced that it will recognise a Palestenian state in September this year at the UN. New Zealand has also expressed its desire to recognise Palestine amid Benjamin Netanyahu's Gaza plan

Australia joins France, UK to recognise Palestine as State, New Zealand may join soon: Will Israel be alienated at UN?

The United Kingdom on Wednesday rejected US President Donald Trump's criticism of its recognition of Palestinian statehood, saying that it does not reflect rewarding Hamas; on the contrary, it is about supporting the Palestinian people. UK Prime Minister on Tuesday issued an ultimatum to Israel that it would recognise the state of Palestine unless Israel takes steps to end the “appalling” situation of Gaza.&nbsp;Palestinian Authority have confirmed that more than 60,000, including women and children, have been killed by the Israeli's in the two-year-long war in Gaza. If suffering and starvation in Gaza continue and a permanent ceasefire is not achieved, with the establishment of a stable humanitarian corridor by September, then the UK would recognise the statehood of Palestine.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump reacted to the decision by saying that he doesn't think Hamas "should be rewarded" with the recognition of Palestinian independence. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hit back at Keir Starmer, saying that he would not agree to any such conditions.“Starmer rewards Hamas’s monstrous terrorism and punishes its victims. A jihadist state on Israel’s border today will threaten Britain tomorrow. Appeasement towards jihadist terrorists always fails. It will fail you, too. It will not happen," said Netanyahu.When asked about the criticism from the US and Israel, British Transport Minister Heidi Alexander, designated as the media spokesperson of the government, said on LBC Radio,"This is not a reward for Hamas. Hamas is a vile terrorist organisation that has committed appalling atrocities. This is about the Palestinian people. It's about those children that we see in Gaza who are starving to death."&nbsp;France has also put forward such an ultimatum to Israel, and several other Western countries, like Australia, Canada, Finland, New Zealand, Portugal, Andorra, and San Marino, have signed a statement recognising the statehood of Palestine. They consider it to be an “essential step toward the two-state solution”.

The UK firmly rejected US President Donald Trump's criticism that recognising Palestinian statehood is rewarding Hamas, clarifying that it reflects the support for the struggle of Palestine.

The United Kingdom on Wednesday rejected US President Donald Trump's criticism of its recognition of Palestinian statehood, saying that it does not reflect rewarding Hamas; on the contrary, it is about supporting the Palestinian people. UK Prime Minister on Tuesday issued an ultimatum to Israel that it would recognise the state of Palestine unless Israel takes steps to end the “appalling” situation of Gaza. Palestinian Authority have confirmed that more than 60,000, including women and children, have been killed by the Israeli's in the two-year-long war in Gaza. If suffering and starvation in Gaza continue and a permanent ceasefire is not achieved, with the establishment of a stable humanitarian corridor by September, then the UK would recognise the statehood of Palestine. US President Donald Trump reacted to the decision by saying that he doesn't think Hamas "should be rewarded" with the recognition of Palestinian independence. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hit back at Keir Starmer, saying that he would not agree to any such conditions. “Starmer rewards Hamas’s monstrous terrorism and punishes its victims. A jihadist state on Israel’s border today will threaten Britain tomorrow. Appeasement towards jihadist terrorists always fails. It will fail you, too. It will not happen," said Netanyahu. When asked about the criticism from the US and Israel, British Transport Minister Heidi Alexander, designated as the media spokesperson of the government, said on LBC Radio,"This is not a reward for Hamas. Hamas is a vile terrorist organisation that has committed appalling atrocities. This is about the Palestinian people. It's about those children that we see in Gaza who are starving to death." France has also put forward such an ultimatum to Israel, and several other Western countries, like Australia, Canada, Finland, New Zealand, Portugal, Andorra, and San Marino, have signed a statement recognising the statehood of Palestine. They consider it to be an “essential step toward the two-state solution”.

The UK firmly rejected US President Donald Trump's criticism that recognising Palestinian statehood is rewarding Hamas, clarifying that it reflects the support for the struggle of Palestine.

'Recognising Palestine isn't a gift to Hamas': UK rejects Trump’s criticism of statehood move

Nearly 500 Palestinians were reported dead in an explosion&nbsp;at a hospital in the northern part of the Gaza Strip, making it the deadliest mass casualty event so far during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas that began on October 7 after the latter launched an unprecedented attack on Israeli civilians.

The Hamas-controlled Gaza health ministry claimed that Israeli warplanes bombed the Ahli Baptist hospital in northern Gaza. World Health Organization, while reacting to the mass casualty event at the hospital, later said that the hospital was&nbsp;operational with patients, health and caregivers, and internally displaced people sheltering there.&nbsp;

"The hospital was one of 20 in the north of the Gaza Strip facing evacuation orders from the Israeli military," WHO statement added.&nbsp;

<h2>Gaza Ahli Baptist hospital explosion: Israel's response</h2>

The Israel Defense Forces claimed that the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group was responsible for the "failed rocket launch" that struck Gaza's Ahli Baptist hospital.

The IDF said a barrage of rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel passed near the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza when it was hit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-500-killed-after-israeli-airstrikes-target-hospital-claims-gaza-health-ministry-648141">Israel-Hamas war: Hundreds killed after deadly explosion at Gaza hospital, Israel denies role</a>

"An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close proximity to the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit," IDF posted on its official&nbsp;Telegram account.

"Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is responsible for the failed rocket launch which hit the hospital in Gaza," it added.

Later, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blamed&nbsp;the "barbaric terrorists in Gaza" for "attacking" the Ahli Baptist Hospital.&nbsp;

"So that the whole world knows: the barbaric terrorists in Gaza are the ones who attacked the hospital in Gaza, not the IDF,” Netanyahu said in a statement.&nbsp;

"Whoever brutally murdered our children is also murdering their children," he added.&nbsp; 
 
An Israel-affiliated account on X shared the footage of an explosion seen from inside the Israeli side of the fence, which it said showed the blast at Gaza's Ahli Baptist hospital that killed hundreds.

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Another angle from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israeli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Israeli</a> side, showing the failed Islamic Jihad rocket launch which killed hundreds in a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> hospital <a href="https://t.co/6M19Z7Hkp2">pic.twitter.com/6M19Z7Hkp2</a>
— StandWithUs (@StandWithUs) <a href="https://twitter.com/StandWithUs/status/1714387845949936078?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Another video shared by Israel-affiliated official social media accounts&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Israel/status/1714378880713203844?s=20">showed a TV&nbsp;broadcast</a> of the purported launch of a rocket in Gaza, which they said hit the said hospital.

&nbsp;

Later, Israel Defense Forces released the raw footage of a rocket aimed at Israel that reportedly misfired and exploded at 18:59 (local time) -- "the same moment a hospital was hit in Gaza."

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RAW FOOTAGE: A rocket aimed at Israel misfired and exploded at 18:59—the same moment a hospital was hit in Gaza. <a href="https://t.co/Kf5xJazSap">pic.twitter.com/Kf5xJazSap</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1714403025136017784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.)

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Nearly 500 Palestinians were reported dead in an explosion at a hospital in the northern part of the Gaza Strip, making it the deadliest mass casualty event so far during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas that began on October 7 after the latter launched an unprecedented attack on Israeli civilians.

Nearly 500 Palestinians were reported dead in an explosion at a hospital in the northern part of the Gaza Strip, making it the deadliest mass casualty event so far during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas that began on October 7 after the latter launched an unprecedented attack on Israeli civilians. The Hamas-controlled Gaza health ministry claimed that Israeli warplanes bombed the Ahli Baptist hospital in northern Gaza. World Health Organization, while reacting to the mass casualty event at the hospital, later said that the hospital was operational with patients, health and caregivers, and internally displaced people sheltering there. "The hospital was one of 20 in the north of the Gaza Strip facing evacuation orders from the Israeli military," WHO statement added. Gaza Ahli Baptist hospital explosion: Israel's response The Israel Defense Forces claimed that the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group was responsible for the "failed rocket launch" that struck Gaza's Ahli Baptist hospital. The IDF said a barrage of rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel passed near the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza when it was hit. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Hundreds killed after deadly explosion at Gaza hospital, Israel denies role "An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close proximity to the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit," IDF posted on its official Telegram account. "Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is responsible for the failed rocket launch which hit the hospital in Gaza," it added. Later, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blamed the "barbaric terrorists in Gaza" for "attacking" the Ahli Baptist Hospital. "So that the whole world knows: the barbaric terrorists in Gaza are the ones who attacked the hospital in Gaza, not the IDF,” Netanyahu said in a statement. "Whoever brutally murdered our children is also murdering their children," he added. An Israel-affiliated account on X shared the footage of an explosion seen from inside the Israeli side of the fence, which it said showed the blast at Gaza's Ahli Baptist hospital that killed hundreds. Another angle from the #Israeli side, showing the failed Islamic Jihad rocket launch which killed hundreds in a #Gaza hospital pic.twitter.com/6M19Z7Hkp2 — StandWithUs (@StandWithUs) October 17, 2023 × Another video shared by Israel-affiliated official social media accounts showed a TV broadcast of the purported launch of a rocket in Gaza, which they said hit the said hospital. Later, Israel Defense Forces released the raw footage of a rocket aimed at Israel that reportedly misfired and exploded at 18:59 (local time) -- "the same moment a hospital was hit in Gaza." RAW FOOTAGE: A rocket aimed at Israel misfired and exploded at 18:59—the same moment a hospital was hit in Gaza. pic.twitter.com/Kf5xJazSap — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 17, 2023 × (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.) 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.

Video: Israeli airstrike or 'misfired' Islamic Jihad rocket? What killed at least 500 at Gaza hospital?

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