Israel and Hamas, the Palestinian militant groups, have agreed to a ceasefire that would end an 11-day conflict that has killed at least 230 Palestinians and 12 Israelis. US President Joe Biden welcomed the ceasefire announcement calling it a 'genuine opportunity'.

Israel and Hamas agree a ceasefire after 11 days of conflict

<p>As conflict broke between Israel and Palestine nearly a week ago with loss of hundreds of lives in Palestine, a 12-year-old boy who raps, struck a chord with his fans on the internet, over an emotional song.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With airstrikes from both sides, past week has been quite troublesome, especially with news of kids becoming homeless and losing parents. Amid this violence, Abdel Rahman al-Shantti can be seen rapping. He raps as a dilapidated building in the background stands as a reminder of what was before the conflict broke.</p>

<p>The 12-year-old boy goes by the name of MC Abdul and he sings, “Palestine’s been occupied for decades, but a home for centuries. This land has for generations been all my family’s memories. Looking at my baby sister, is this something she deserves? Growing up in a world where she is not treated the same. Denied the right to live free because of where she came."</p>

<p>The video has 2.4 million views already and has been shared by international artists such as actor Tyrese Gibson and Grammy-winning music producer DJ Khaled. Sharing the video, Khaled said in his caption, “Bless up the young world @mca.rap. Praying for Love and peace to the world and Unity! Praying for love and peace 🇵🇸 and the whole world everyone love and peace. LOVE IS THE ANSWER."</p>

<p>Watch the song here:</p>

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<p>Abdel first came under the spotlight last year through one of his rap videos that became viral.&nbsp;</p>


As conflict broke between Israel and Palestine nearly a week ago with loss of hundreds of lives in Palestine, a 12-year-old boy who raps, struck a chord with his fans on the internet, over an emotional song.

As conflict broke between Israel and Palestine nearly a week ago with loss of hundreds of lives in Palestine, a 12-year-old boy who raps, struck a chord with his fans on the internet, over an emotional song. With airstrikes from both sides, past week has been quite troublesome, especially with news of kids becoming homeless and losing parents. Amid this violence, Abdel Rahman al-Shantti can be seen rapping. He raps as a dilapidated building in the background stands as a reminder of what was before the conflict broke. The 12-year-old boy goes by the name of MC Abdul and he sings, “Palestine’s been occupied for decades, but a home for centuries. This land has for generations been all my family’s memories. Looking at my baby sister, is this something she deserves? Growing up in a world where she is not treated the same. Denied the right to live free because of where she came." The video has 2.4 million views already and has been shared by international artists such as actor Tyrese Gibson and Grammy-winning music producer DJ Khaled. Sharing the video, Khaled said in his caption, “Bless up the young world @mca.rap. Praying for Love and peace to the world and Unity! Praying for love and peace 🇵🇸 and the whole world everyone love and peace. LOVE IS THE ANSWER." Watch the song here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by MC Abdul (@mca.rap) × Abdel first came under the spotlight last year through one of his rap videos that became viral.

Watch: 12-year-old Gaza rapper sings emotionally on Palestine's plight

As cross-border fighting continues for the 11th straight day, calls for a ceasefire are now gaining traction. Meanwhile, the United Nations General Assembly held a special session addressing the violence in the region.

Israel-Palestine Clashes: Renewed violence amid ceasefire calls. UNGA holds special session

The latest clashes began during the holy month of Ramadan, a month ago, after Israeli soldiers blocked Palestinian gatherings at an already heightened time of religious sensitivities

Benjamin Netanyahu makes no mention of halt to Gaza fighting

Social Media misinformation is fueling the Israel-Palestine Conflict. Unrelated videos are going viral & provoking sentiments. WION’s Palki Sharma tells you why it's imperative that we don't feed the hostility with falsehoods.

Gravitas: Fake news is fueling the Israel-Palestine conflict

Why are Arab states wary of supporting Palestine against Israel? Has the fragmented Palestinian leadership failed to represent the people? Where does Hamas - the extremist rulers of Gaza figure in the Palestinian movement? WION’s Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Hamas and the politics of Palestine

<p>The violence between Israel and Hamas has intensified in the past eight days and is showing no signs of abating despite regular diplomatic efforts to bring about a ceasefire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Israeli media, Hamas has fired over 3,350 rockets from Gaza — 200 on Monday alone — and that Israeli strikes have killed at least 130 militants.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/under-pressure-biden-works-for-ceasefire-in-israel-gaza-violence-385746">Under pressure, Biden works for ceasefire in Israel-Gaza violence&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>The death toll in Gaza has crossed 200 — including 61 children and 36 women — while 12 people have died in Israel — including two children and including two Thai nationals working in a factory.</p>

<p>Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan has said the Israel-Gaza conflict is pushing the whole region "in the wrong direction,".</p>

<p>"This all pushes us absolutely in the wrong direction. It means that we are making a path toward a sustainable peace more difficult," bin Farhan told AFP, as the international community steps up its diplomatic efforts to push for de-escalation.<br />
<br />
<strong>Gravitas: Hamas and the politics of Palestine</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hamas-and-the-politics-of-palestine-385920/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The conflict is "empowering the extremists," he added.</p>

<p>"It empowers the most intolerant voices in our region and makes (finding) a path to real peace harder," he added, speaking on the sideline of summits in France on Sudan and Africa.</p>

<p>"We have to all work together to encourage all the parties to engage (seriously), he said. "First of all, to de-escalate, to stop the violence and then to engage in serious peace talks toward a final settlement."</p>

<p>That final settlement "must include a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital," Saudi Arabia's top diplomat stressed.<br />
<br />
<strong>In pictures:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures-indonesia-backs-gaza-as-israel-pounds-back-385787">Indonesia backs Gaza as Israel pounds back</a></p>

<p>Israel's near-relentless bombing campaign has killed 217 Palestinians, including 63 children, and wounded more than 1,400 people in just over a week in the Hamas-run enclave, according to Gaza's health ministry.</p>

<p>The death toll on the Israeli side rose to 12 when a volley of rockets Hamas fired at the southern Eshkol region killed two Thai nationals working in a factory and wounded several others, police said.</p>

<p>"Our key priority is to reinitiate peace talks between Palestinians and Israelis," bin Farhan said.</p>

<p>"This is the only path to a sustainable peace."</p>

<p>Saudi Arabia has no official relations with Israel.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The violence between Israel and Hamas has intensified in the past eight days and is showing no signs of abating despite regular diplomatic efforts to bring about a ceasefire.

The violence between Israel and Hamas has intensified in the past eight days and is showing no signs of abating despite regular diplomatic efforts to bring about a ceasefire. According to Israeli media, Hamas has fired over 3,350 rockets from Gaza — 200 on Monday alone — and that Israeli strikes have killed at least 130 militants. Also read: Under pressure, Biden works for ceasefire in Israel-Gaza violence The death toll in Gaza has crossed 200 — including 61 children and 36 women — while 12 people have died in Israel — including two children and including two Thai nationals working in a factory. Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan has said the Israel-Gaza conflict is pushing the whole region "in the wrong direction,". "This all pushes us absolutely in the wrong direction. It means that we are making a path toward a sustainable peace more difficult," bin Farhan told AFP, as the international community steps up its diplomatic efforts to push for de-escalation. Gravitas: Hamas and the politics of Palestine The conflict is "empowering the extremists," he added. "It empowers the most intolerant voices in our region and makes (finding) a path to real peace harder," he added, speaking on the sideline of summits in France on Sudan and Africa. "We have to all work together to encourage all the parties to engage (seriously), he said. "First of all, to de-escalate, to stop the violence and then to engage in serious peace talks toward a final settlement." That final settlement "must include a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital," Saudi Arabia's top diplomat stressed. In pictures: Indonesia backs Gaza as Israel pounds back Israel's near-relentless bombing campaign has killed 217 Palestinians, including 63 children, and wounded more than 1,400 people in just over a week in the Hamas-run enclave, according to Gaza's health ministry. The death toll on the Israeli side rose to 12 when a volley of rockets Hamas fired at the southern Eshkol region killed two Thai nationals working in a factory and wounded several others, police said. "Our key priority is to reinitiate peace talks between Palestinians and Israelis," bin Farhan said. "This is the only path to a sustainable peace." Saudi Arabia has no official relations with Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas conflict pushing region in 'wrong direction': Saudi Arabia calls for end to violence

Israel is continuing to bombard Gaza with air strikes, the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saying the military offensive will go on for as long as it takes to "restore calm" for all of Israel's citizens.

'Hamas received blows they didn't expect': Benjamin Netanyahu

The UN Security Council has failed to adopt a simple declaration on the conflict, with the United States, a staunch Israel ally, having rejected three prior statement drafts proposed by China, Norway and Tunisia.

France proposes Israel-Gaza ceasefire resolution at UN

<p>Videos of rockets raining on Israel often have blaring sound of sirens in the background. These sirens are part of Israel's air raid siren system. Alarms go off every time a rocket from Gaza is fired towards Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These alarms are placed across the country. Some go off automatically, some are manually controlled. Every time an Israeli hears a siren, he or she is expected to follow certain protocols. This includes rushing to safe rooms and bomb shelters.</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel is bombarding the Gaza strip. And Hamas is raining rockets into Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel's air sirens are unusual, but not unique. Most towns worldover had similar air raid sirens. During World War II, these alarms warned of approaching enemy bombers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In fact, it was the British who introduced the alarm system in this region. It was then called Palestine and was under British rule. Post-1948, the alarm system was expanded by the newborn state of Israel. The alarms were upgraded as recently as 2019.</p>

<p>Israelis call these sirens 'Azaka'. It means alarm.</p>

<p>When an Israeli hears a siren, he or she has a minute to rush to a 'Mamad' or safe room. The siren stops blaring after the incoming rocket is intercepted. But residents are expected to stay in safe rooms for another couple of minutes. This is to avoid being hit by falling shrapnel. After the window period lapses, they can get back to what they were doing.</p>

<p>What if an alarm goes off when an Israeli citizen is outdoors? He or she must run to a nearby building. If that's not an option then the person has to lie down on the ground and cover their heads with hands.</p>

<p>If the siren goes off when a person is driving, Israelis are expected to pull over, leave the car, and rush to a shelter.</p>

<p>When a train pilot hears a siren, the train slows down to 30 miles per hour. And passengers are expected to bend their head and cover it with their hands.</p>

<p>Today, Israel uses a multi-touchpoint siren system. The warning is simultaneously broadcast over TV, the radio, and apps. Mobile applications provide real-time alerts, and information about the nature and location of the siren.</p>

<p>Our correspondent in Israel&nbsp;ran us through one such app while taking refuge in a safe room following a siren.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
Today, safe rooms are mandatory in every building in Israel. But in Gaza, there is no such rule. There is nowhere people can run. There are also no air raid sirens, or safe houses.</p>

<p>Gaza is tiny with just 365 square kilometres of area. It has population of 2 million people. This strip is one of the world's most densely populated. And every time a bomb drops on Gaza, it risks every soul living there.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Videos of rockets raining on Israel often have blaring sound of sirens in the background. These sirens are part of Israel's air raid siren system. Alarms go off every time a rocket from Gaza is fired towards Israel.

Videos of rockets raining on Israel often have blaring sound of sirens in the background. These sirens are part of Israel's air raid siren system. Alarms go off every time a rocket from Gaza is fired towards Israel. These alarms are placed across the country. Some go off automatically, some are manually controlled. Every time an Israeli hears a siren, he or she is expected to follow certain protocols. This includes rushing to safe rooms and bomb shelters. × Israel is bombarding the Gaza strip. And Hamas is raining rockets into Israel. Israel's air sirens are unusual, but not unique. Most towns worldover had similar air raid sirens. During World War II, these alarms warned of approaching enemy bombers. In fact, it was the British who introduced the alarm system in this region. It was then called Palestine and was under British rule. Post-1948, the alarm system was expanded by the newborn state of Israel. The alarms were upgraded as recently as 2019. Israelis call these sirens 'Azaka'. It means alarm. When an Israeli hears a siren, he or she has a minute to rush to a 'Mamad' or safe room. The siren stops blaring after the incoming rocket is intercepted. But residents are expected to stay in safe rooms for another couple of minutes. This is to avoid being hit by falling shrapnel. After the window period lapses, they can get back to what they were doing. What if an alarm goes off when an Israeli citizen is outdoors? He or she must run to a nearby building. If that's not an option then the person has to lie down on the ground and cover their heads with hands. If the siren goes off when a person is driving, Israelis are expected to pull over, leave the car, and rush to a shelter. When a train pilot hears a siren, the train slows down to 30 miles per hour. And passengers are expected to bend their head and cover it with their hands. Today, Israel uses a multi-touchpoint siren system. The warning is simultaneously broadcast over TV, the radio, and apps. Mobile applications provide real-time alerts, and information about the nature and location of the siren. Our correspondent in Israel ran us through one such app while taking refuge in a safe room following a siren. Today, safe rooms are mandatory in every building in Israel. But in Gaza, there is no such rule. There is nowhere people can run. There are also no air raid sirens, or safe houses. Gaza is tiny with just 365 square kilometres of area. It has population of 2 million people. This strip is one of the world's most densely populated. And every time a bomb drops on Gaza, it risks every soul living there.

This is how Israel protects its citizens from rocket attacks

<p>France President Emmanuel Macron, his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah II on Tuesday, held talks to seek ceasefire in Israel-Palestine conflict.</p>

<p>Sisi is currently in Paris for summits on Africa. King Abdullah joined by video conference, the Elysee Palace said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>French presidency said that trilateral summit meeting aimed "above all to work for a rapid ceasefire and prevent the conflict from extending"</p>

<p>Statement from Sisi's office added after the meeting that the talks sought "to develop a common approach of the three countries to put an end to the violence" and contain "the dangerous escalation" in the Palestinian territories.</p>

<p>Egypt, which borders Gaza and is one of the few Arab countries with a long history of diplomatic relations with Israel, is seeking to fulfil its traditional role of mediator in the current conflict.</p>

<p>According to spokesman Bassam Radi, Sisi emphasised that "Egypt will continue its efforts to stop the escalation on both sides, through its contacts with all the international parties as well as with the Israeli and Palestinian sides".</p>

<p>Macron had on Monday underlined the importance of Egyptian mediation after talks in Paris with Sisi, a key ally and defence client of France despite activists' concerns over Cairo's rights record.</p>

<p>He said that the trilateral talks would be aimed at "how to make a concrete proposal along these lines".</p>

<p>According to the Jordanian Royal Court, Abdullah affirmed in the video call "the need to protect the Palestinians, stop all illegal Israeli attacks and actions in Jerusalem, and end the aggression on Gaza".</p>

<p>He also stressed that "the repeated Israeli violations and provocations that led to the escalation and exacerbated the situation must end".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


France President Emmanuel Macron, his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah II on Tuesday, held talks to seek ceasefire in Israel-Palestine conflict.

France President Emmanuel Macron, his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah II on Tuesday, held talks to seek ceasefire in Israel-Palestine conflict. Sisi is currently in Paris for summits on Africa. King Abdullah joined by video conference, the Elysee Palace said. French presidency said that trilateral summit meeting aimed "above all to work for a rapid ceasefire and prevent the conflict from extending" Statement from Sisi's office added after the meeting that the talks sought "to develop a common approach of the three countries to put an end to the violence" and contain "the dangerous escalation" in the Palestinian territories. Egypt, which borders Gaza and is one of the few Arab countries with a long history of diplomatic relations with Israel, is seeking to fulfil its traditional role of mediator in the current conflict. According to spokesman Bassam Radi, Sisi emphasised that "Egypt will continue its efforts to stop the escalation on both sides, through its contacts with all the international parties as well as with the Israeli and Palestinian sides". Macron had on Monday underlined the importance of Egyptian mediation after talks in Paris with Sisi, a key ally and defence client of France despite activists' concerns over Cairo's rights record. He said that the trilateral talks would be aimed at "how to make a concrete proposal along these lines". According to the Jordanian Royal Court, Abdullah affirmed in the video call "the need to protect the Palestinians, stop all illegal Israeli attacks and actions in Jerusalem, and end the aggression on Gaza". He also stressed that "the repeated Israeli violations and provocations that led to the escalation and exacerbated the situation must end". (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine conflict: France, Jordan, Egypt hold talks, seek ceasefire

Israel is celebrating the Jewish festival of Shavout. But unlike other years, Israelis are staying put in underground bomb shelters, as rockets fired from Gaza. WION correspondent Jodie Cohen takes you inside a bunker.

Israel Ground Report: Everyone is staying close this Shavout says Central Israel's resident

As Israelis gear up for Jewish holiday of Shavuot, WION correspondent Jodie Cohen takes you inside a bomb shelter in central Israel where residents dash, as blaring sirens warn of incoming rocket fire.

Israel Ground Report: WION's Jodie Cohen takes you inside a bomb shelter

Advisor to Israel's Foreign Minister Michael Freeman discusses with Palki Sharma about who started the Israel-Gaza conflict and where is it heading.

The Interview: Advisor to Israel's Foreign Minister Michael Freeman speaks on Israel-Gaza conflict

211 people have died in the escalating violence between Israel, Gaza. Civilians, media, children have been caught in the crossfire. But neither Israel nor Hamas wants to de-escalate. Why? Palki Sharma brings you the latest.

Gravitas: Israel, Gaza violence enters week 2

Palestine's envoy to India Adnan Mohammad Jaber Abualhayjaa has said that his government has been "working for the ceasefire from the first day" when it comes to the ongoing situation with Israel. According to him over 200 people have lost lives in West Bank and Gaza due to actions by Israel.

Palestine's envoy to India Adnan Abualhayjaa speaks on the Palestine-Israel issue

Sheikh Jarrah has become the tense centerpoint of efforts by what the Israeli government has described as a group of Jewish settlers.

The epicentre of Israel-Palestine conflict: Sheikh Jarrah

<p>Russia President Vladmir Putin on Tuesday (May 18) called for an end to Israel-Gaza violence. He mentioned that there were large amounts of civilian victims.</p>

<p>Israel bombarded Gaza with air strikes and Palestinian militants resumed cross-border rocket fire on Tuesday after a brief overnight lull during which the U.N. sent a small fuel convoy into the enclave, where it says 52,000 people are now displaced.</p>

<p>Israel has given no indication of de-escalation as the country's leaders said they would press on, for now with an offensive in order to destroy capabilities of Hamas and Islamic Jihad. United Nations and other world powers for an end to the violence.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Russia President Vladmir Putin on Tuesday (May 18) called for an end to Israel-Gaza violence. He mentioned that there were large amounts of civilian victims. Israel bombarded Gaza with air strikes and Palestinian militants resumed cross-border rocket fire on Tuesday after a brief overnight lull during which the U.

Russia President Vladmir Putin on Tuesday (May 18) called for an end to Israel-Gaza violence. He mentioned that there were large amounts of civilian victims. Israel bombarded Gaza with air strikes and Palestinian militants resumed cross-border rocket fire on Tuesday after a brief overnight lull during which the U.N. sent a small fuel convoy into the enclave, where it says 52,000 people are now displaced. Israel has given no indication of de-escalation as the country's leaders said they would press on, for now with an offensive in order to destroy capabilities of Hamas and Islamic Jihad. United Nations and other world powers for an end to the violence. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine conflict: Putin calls for an end to violence

As the Israel-Palestine conflict rages, what is India's position? Historically, New Delhi has supported Palestine, but today it maintains an independent relationship with both sides. This stance reflects in India's statement. Palki Sharma tells you how.

Gravitas: Israel or Palestine: Who does India support?

Why are children being made the face of human tragedies? From Gaza to Syria, pictures of slain children are used to gain social media traction. Is this genuine concern, or a desperate attempt to milk trauma? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Israel, Hamas milking child casualties

<p>Egypt President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi pledged on Tuesday USD 500 million for recounstruction efforts in Gaza. The announcement was made by his office.</p>

<p>"Egypt will provide $500 million... for the reconstruction process in the Gaza Strip as a result of recent events, with expert Egyptian construction companies implementing the rebuilding," the presidency said in a statement.</p>

<p>The deadly violence between Israel and Palestine erupted on May 10. Since then, Israeli air strikes have killed more than 200 Palestinians in Gaza, as per Hamas-run health ministry.</p>

<p>As per authorities in Israel, 12 people have been killed on the Israeli side.</p>

<p>Sisi is holding talks in Paris with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron and Jordan's King Abdullah II aimed at seeking a rapid truce to the lethal conflict.</p>

<p>Egypt has also sent 65 tonnes of medical aid to neighbouring Gaza, its healthy ministry said.</p>

<p>With hospitals in Gaza overwhelmed by patients, the critical surgical supplies include specialist burns treatment as well as "ventilators, oxygen tanks (and) syringes," Health Minister Hala Zayed said late Monday.</p>

<p>Sisi on Sunday ordered the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt -- the enclave's only border point not controlled by Israel -- to open to allow wounded Gazans to be treated in Egyptian hospitals and to deliver aid.</p>

<p>Sources at Rafah on Tuesday said that 26 trucks of food had been sent to Gaza, with 50 ambulances ready to transport the wounded.</p>

<p>Egypt said it would make space in 11 hospitals nationwide at a capacity of over 1,800 beds.</p>

<p>Israel launched its aerial bombing campaign on Gaza after Hamas fired a barrage of rockets in response to unrest in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem.</p>

<p>The Israeli strikes have killed 213 people, including 61 children, and wounded more than 1,400 in Gaza, according to the health ministry.</p>

<p>The UN says nearly 40,000 Gazans have been displaced and 2,500 have lost their homes.</p>

<p>Strikes have knocked out the only Covid-19 testing laboratory in the blockaded enclave, the health ministry has said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Egypt President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi pledged on Tuesday USD 500 million for recounstruction efforts in Gaza. The announcement was made by his office. "Egypt will provide $500 million.

Egypt President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi pledged on Tuesday USD 500 million for recounstruction efforts in Gaza. The announcement was made by his office. "Egypt will provide $500 million... for the reconstruction process in the Gaza Strip as a result of recent events, with expert Egyptian construction companies implementing the rebuilding," the presidency said in a statement. The deadly violence between Israel and Palestine erupted on May 10. Since then, Israeli air strikes have killed more than 200 Palestinians in Gaza, as per Hamas-run health ministry. As per authorities in Israel, 12 people have been killed on the Israeli side. Sisi is holding talks in Paris with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron and Jordan's King Abdullah II aimed at seeking a rapid truce to the lethal conflict. Egypt has also sent 65 tonnes of medical aid to neighbouring Gaza, its healthy ministry said. With hospitals in Gaza overwhelmed by patients, the critical surgical supplies include specialist burns treatment as well as "ventilators, oxygen tanks (and) syringes," Health Minister Hala Zayed said late Monday. Sisi on Sunday ordered the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt -- the enclave's only border point not controlled by Israel -- to open to allow wounded Gazans to be treated in Egyptian hospitals and to deliver aid. Sources at Rafah on Tuesday said that 26 trucks of food had been sent to Gaza, with 50 ambulances ready to transport the wounded. Egypt said it would make space in 11 hospitals nationwide at a capacity of over 1,800 beds. Israel launched its aerial bombing campaign on Gaza after Hamas fired a barrage of rockets in response to unrest in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem. The Israeli strikes have killed 213 people, including 61 children, and wounded more than 1,400 in Gaza, according to the health ministry. The UN says nearly 40,000 Gazans have been displaced and 2,500 have lost their homes. Strikes have knocked out the only Covid-19 testing laboratory in the blockaded enclave, the health ministry has said. (With inputs from agencies)

Egypt pledges USD 500 million help for Gaza, sends medical aid

<p>Israel and &nbsp;Palestine are once again entangled in a series of bloody clashes as part of the on-going decades-long conflict. The conflict has entered into second week, resulted in significant loss of life and property and more importantly, there are no signs of either side willing to retract.</p>

<p><strong>Brief Background to the Conflict&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Even though the origins of the conflict can be traced deep into the history of the region, its modern phase can be said to have begun in in early 20th century. Palestine was one of the Provinces of Turkish Ottoman &nbsp;Empire till it came under British control in 1922 as a fall out of World war 1, and remained so till 1948.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During this period the migration of Jews to the region increased palpably and resultantly tensions between the Arab Muslims and Jews also grew considerably. As the end of Britain’s Palestine Mandate drew closer, Britain referred the Palestine Issue to UN in April, 1947.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN came forward with a plan (UN Resolution 181 of 29th November 1947) to partition Palestine into Arab and Jewish States with the city of Jerusalem as a Corpus separatum i.e. separate entity to be governed by a special international regime under UN. The Plan was accepted by the Jews but rejected by the Arabs.</p>

<p>The Jews of Palestine went ahead and created an independent sovereign State in May 1948. &nbsp;What followed was a series of Arab-Israel wars and repeated armed clashes which keep erupting from time to time, including the current conflict which began in early May this year and has escalated since then and threatens to assume serious proportions.</p>

<p><strong>Core Elements of the Conflict&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>What is at the core of the conflict? Essentially, the conflict has three important dimensions: ethno-religious, right to self-determination and independent homeland, and related to that are the territorial claims. The Arab Muslim Palestinians and Israeli Jews are the two parties to this ethno-religious conflict. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The Jews have succeeded in establishing an independent sovereign State i.e. Israel, and in securing the full membership of the United Nations and recognition from a large number countries except from some Arab League and OIC Member States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In contrast, the Palestinians have so far managed to secure the status of a Non-Member &nbsp;UN Observer State. The city of Jerusalem-sacred to Muslims, Jews as well as Christians for their own valid reasons - is at the core of the territorial dimension of this conflict.</p>

<p>It also houses the Indian Hospice which is a historic place associated with a great Indian Sufi saint Baba Farid. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The city including East Jerusalem (occupied by &nbsp;Israel in 1967 war and later annexed in 1980) is under de-facto control of Israel who considers “whole and united” Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, a claim not recognised by the entire international community. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, the Palestinians claim East Jerusalem as the capital of a future independent State of Palestine to be established in the territories occupied by Israel since 1967 Arab-Israel war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel’s de facto control of Jerusalem on the ground has enabled it to invest vast resources and efforts into changing the physical and demographic characteristics of the City. The Palestinians also stake claim to whole of West Bank where the Palestine Authority is in administrative control of about half the territory.</p>

<p><strong>Conflict Resolution&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Quartet, comprised of the USA, Russian Federation, European Union and United Nations, and established in 2002 to facilitate peace process negotiations developed a “Performance Based Road Map to a Permanent Two States Solution” and has met numerous times in pursuance of its objectives but has prima-facie, failed to deliver, presumably due to irreconcilable positions adopted by the parties to the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Israel has gradually normalised its relations with some of the key Arab countries including Egypt, Bahrain, Jordan, UAE, and is said to be moving in this direction with Saudi Arabia as well. The Palestinians have reacted by describing these developments as betrayal of the Palestinian cause by these Arab countries. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The rapprochement between Israel and Arab States may not augur well for the Palestinians who may not find some of them on their side in hours of desperate need if they are required to choose between Israel and Palestine. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The situation is further complicated by the lack of unity amongst Palestinians who went through a civil war in 2006-2007 and are now divided into two broad groups: the militant Hamas in control of Gaza and relatively moderate Fateh-led Palestine Authority in control of parts of the West Bank.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Current Scenario</strong></p>

<p>At present the energies of the international community are focussed on finding ways and means to de-escalate the confrontation leading to cessation of hostilities. Several countries in their individual capacities have made appeals to achieve these objectives. Regrettably,&nbsp;the UN, which has a poor track record in resolving global conflicts, looks toothless once again in bringing the situation under control.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN Security Council held a public virtual meeting on 16th May preceded by two closed-door meetings earlier in the previous week but has failed to issue any official statement on the outcome of its deliberations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports at hand suggest that the USA, a staunch ally of Israel, was instrumental in blocking resolutions/joint statement which would have condemned Israel’s military response to rocket attacks by Hamas, besides calling for an immediate cease-fire.</p>

<p><strong>India’s Position</strong></p>

<p>India has been consistent in its support for the “just cause” of Palestinians. For several years, even after establishing diplomatic relations with Israel in 1992, India was looking at its relations with Palestine through the prism of its relations with Israel and vice versa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>By undertaking a standalone first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Israel in 2017, PM Modi signalled de-hyphenation of India’s policy towards Palestine and Israel but nevertheless has not wavered in its principled position on Israel-Palestine conflict despite rapidly growing relations with Israel.</p>

<p>In its statement at the UNSC meeting, India has therefore reiterated its “strong support to the just Palestinian cause and its unwavering commitment to the two-State solution”.</p>

<p>Interestingly, while India has condemned the “indiscriminate rocket firings from Gaza targeting the civilian population in Israel” it has described the Israeli airstrikes as “retaliatory” without any condemnation. &nbsp;</p>

<p>India has thus in a way endorsed Israeli action though it stopped short of openly endorsing Israel’s right to self-defence as done by the USA in its initial statements. The condemnation of the rocket attacks by Hamas can possibly also be seen as India’s rejection of Hamas’ modus-operandi for attaining its political objectives through violent means.</p>

<p><strong>What's in store?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>It is matter of academic debate as to who between Israel and Palestine should be held responsible for triggering the current conflict. Expectedly, each one of the two is blaming the other. The Israelis are describing the rocket fires by Hamas as premeditated and their own action as retaliatory in self-defence, whereas Hamas is justifying it as its response to Israeli aggression.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fortunately, the chances of a full-scale Arab-Israel war with participation by select Arab countries alongside Palestine looks remote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yet, as rightly pointed by India and many other countries, the need of the hour is to de-escalate so as to arrest any further slide towards the brink.&nbsp;</p>

<p>We can expect to see a flurry of diplomatic activity including by Quartet and some individual countries with the immediate objective of cessation of hostilities. Final and lasting resolution of the conflict, meeting the aspirations of the parties to the conflict, however, is nowhere on the horizon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At this point in time, an agreement to ceasefire would be a great achievement. The pertinent question is how soon can we expect a ceasefire? It is somewhat intriguing in this context that the key player USA is not showing any sense of urgency. Is this by design? Is the idea behind it is to allow sufficient time to Israel to weaken Hamas as much as possible before a truce is reached? It is noteworthy that Hamas has been designated as a terrorist organization, inter-alia, by Israel, USA and the EU, and Israel has let it be known that it is targeting Hamas leaders and its infrastructure.</p>

<p>Hopefully, the wise sense will prevail soon and it will be possible to prevent further loss of precious human lives and damage to property.</p>

<p><strong>(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.)</strong></p>


Israel and Palestine are once again entangled in a series of bloody clashes as part of the on-going decades-long conflict. The conflict has entered into second week, resulted in significant loss of life and property and more importantly, there are no signs of either side willing to retract.

Israel and Palestine are once again entangled in a series of bloody clashes as part of the on-going decades-long conflict. The conflict has entered into second week, resulted in significant loss of life and property and more importantly, there are no signs of either side willing to retract. Brief Background to the Conflict Even though the origins of the conflict can be traced deep into the history of the region, its modern phase can be said to have begun in in early 20th century. Palestine was one of the Provinces of Turkish Ottoman Empire till it came under British control in 1922 as a fall out of World war 1, and remained so till 1948. During this period the migration of Jews to the region increased palpably and resultantly tensions between the Arab Muslims and Jews also grew considerably. As the end of Britain’s Palestine Mandate drew closer, Britain referred the Palestine Issue to UN in April, 1947. The UN came forward with a plan (UN Resolution 181 of 29th November 1947) to partition Palestine into Arab and Jewish States with the city of Jerusalem as a Corpus separatum i.e. separate entity to be governed by a special international regime under UN. The Plan was accepted by the Jews but rejected by the Arabs. The Jews of Palestine went ahead and created an independent sovereign State in May 1948. What followed was a series of Arab-Israel wars and repeated armed clashes which keep erupting from time to time, including the current conflict which began in early May this year and has escalated since then and threatens to assume serious proportions. Core Elements of the Conflict What is at the core of the conflict? Essentially, the conflict has three important dimensions: ethno-religious, right to self-determination and independent homeland, and related to that are the territorial claims. The Arab Muslim Palestinians and Israeli Jews are the two parties to this ethno-religious conflict. The Jews have succeeded in establishing an independent sovereign State i.e. Israel, and in securing the full membership of the United Nations and recognition from a large number countries except from some Arab League and OIC Member States. In contrast, the Palestinians have so far managed to secure the status of a Non-Member UN Observer State. The city of Jerusalem-sacred to Muslims, Jews as well as Christians for their own valid reasons - is at the core of the territorial dimension of this conflict. It also houses the Indian Hospice which is a historic place associated with a great Indian Sufi saint Baba Farid. The city including East Jerusalem (occupied by Israel in 1967 war and later annexed in 1980) is under de-facto control of Israel who considers “whole and united” Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, a claim not recognised by the entire international community. On the other hand, the Palestinians claim East Jerusalem as the capital of a future independent State of Palestine to be established in the territories occupied by Israel since 1967 Arab-Israel war. Israel’s de facto control of Jerusalem on the ground has enabled it to invest vast resources and efforts into changing the physical and demographic characteristics of the City. The Palestinians also stake claim to whole of West Bank where the Palestine Authority is in administrative control of about half the territory. Conflict Resolution The Quartet, comprised of the USA, Russian Federation, European Union and United Nations, and established in 2002 to facilitate peace process negotiations developed a “Performance Based Road Map to a Permanent Two States Solution” and has met numerous times in pursuance of its objectives but has prima-facie, failed to deliver, presumably due to irreconcilable positions adopted by the parties to the conflict. Meanwhile, Israel has gradually normalised its relations with some of the key Arab countries including Egypt, Bahrain, Jordan, UAE, and is said to be moving in this direction with Saudi Arabia as well. The Palestinians have reacted by describing these developments as betrayal of the Palestinian cause by these Arab countries. The rapprochement between Israel and Arab States may not augur well for the Palestinians who may not find some of them on their side in hours of desperate need if they are required to choose between Israel and Palestine. The situation is further complicated by the lack of unity amongst Palestinians who went through a civil war in 2006-2007 and are now divided into two broad groups: the militant Hamas in control of Gaza and relatively moderate Fateh-led Palestine Authority in control of parts of the West Bank. Current Scenario At present the energies of the international community are focussed on finding ways and means to de-escalate the confrontation leading to cessation of hostilities. Several countries in their individual capacities have made appeals to achieve these objectives. Regrettably, the UN, which has a poor track record in resolving global conflicts, looks toothless once again in bringing the situation under control. The UN Security Council held a public virtual meeting on 16th May preceded by two closed-door meetings earlier in the previous week but has failed to issue any official statement on the outcome of its deliberations. Reports at hand suggest that the USA, a staunch ally of Israel, was instrumental in blocking resolutions/joint statement which would have condemned Israel’s military response to rocket attacks by Hamas, besides calling for an immediate cease-fire. India’s Position India has been consistent in its support for the “just cause” of Palestinians. For several years, even after establishing diplomatic relations with Israel in 1992, India was looking at its relations with Palestine through the prism of its relations with Israel and vice versa. By undertaking a standalone first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Israel in 2017, PM Modi signalled de-hyphenation of India’s policy towards Palestine and Israel but nevertheless has not wavered in its principled position on Israel-Palestine conflict despite rapidly growing relations with Israel. In its statement at the UNSC meeting, India has therefore reiterated its “strong support to the just Palestinian cause and its unwavering commitment to the two-State solution”. Interestingly, while India has condemned the “indiscriminate rocket firings from Gaza targeting the civilian population in Israel” it has described the Israeli airstrikes as “retaliatory” without any condemnation. India has thus in a way endorsed Israeli action though it stopped short of openly endorsing Israel’s right to self-defence as done by the USA in its initial statements. The condemnation of the rocket attacks by Hamas can possibly also be seen as India’s rejection of Hamas’ modus-operandi for attaining its political objectives through violent means. What's in store? It is matter of academic debate as to who between Israel and Palestine should be held responsible for triggering the current conflict. Expectedly, each one of the two is blaming the other. The Israelis are describing the rocket fires by Hamas as premeditated and their own action as retaliatory in self-defence, whereas Hamas is justifying it as its response to Israeli aggression. Fortunately, the chances of a full-scale Arab-Israel war with participation by select Arab countries alongside Palestine looks remote. Yet, as rightly pointed by India and many other countries, the need of the hour is to de-escalate so as to arrest any further slide towards the brink. We can expect to see a flurry of diplomatic activity including by Quartet and some individual countries with the immediate objective of cessation of hostilities. Final and lasting resolution of the conflict, meeting the aspirations of the parties to the conflict, however, is nowhere on the horizon. At this point in time, an agreement to ceasefire would be a great achievement. The pertinent question is how soon can we expect a ceasefire? It is somewhat intriguing in this context that the key player USA is not showing any sense of urgency. Is this by design? Is the idea behind it is to allow sufficient time to Israel to weaken Hamas as much as possible before a truce is reached? It is noteworthy that Hamas has been designated as a terrorist organization, inter-alia, by Israel, USA and the EU, and Israel has let it be known that it is targeting Hamas leaders and its infrastructure. Hopefully, the wise sense will prevail soon and it will be possible to prevent further loss of precious human lives and damage to property. (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.)

Opinion | Israel-Palestine: Where is the conflict heading?

In pictures: Indonesia backs Gaza as Israel pounds back

<p>Kangana Ranaut has been garnering a lot of praise for her upcoming film 'Panga'. The trailer shows Kangana as a simple housewife who plans on a comeback in the Kabaddi arena years after retirement. While Kangana features prominently in the trailer along with Jassie Gill, the other actress of the film Richa Chadha's look has so far been kept under wraps.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
On Thursday, the makers unveiled the look of Chadha's character in the film. Chadha too plays a Kabaddi player and her character Meenu plays Kangana Ranaut’s on-screen friend.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Her character is that of a woman who’s empowered and chosen a life for herself where she has made her career in sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;The actress had to train extensively for the role and even had to sport a shorter hairdo in the film.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Here, have a look.&nbsp;<br />
<img alt="Richa Chadha in 'Panga'" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="93e9a33b-3ff1-428b-af29-348f4d449844" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-01-16T210107.782.jpg" /><br />
<br />
'Panga' has been directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and is set to release in theatres on January 24.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Kangana Ranaut has been garnering a lot of praise for her upcoming film 'Panga'. The trailer shows Kangana as a simple housewife who plans on a comeback in the Kabaddi arena years after retirement.

Kangana Ranaut has been garnering a lot of praise for her upcoming film 'Panga'. The trailer shows Kangana as a simple housewife who plans on a comeback in the Kabaddi arena years after retirement. While Kangana features prominently in the trailer along with Jassie Gill, the other actress of the film Richa Chadha's look has so far been kept under wraps. On Thursday, the makers unveiled the look of Chadha's character in the film. Chadha too plays a Kabaddi player and her character Meenu plays Kangana Ranaut’s on-screen friend. Her character is that of a woman who’s empowered and chosen a life for herself where she has made her career in sports. The actress had to train extensively for the role and even had to sport a shorter hairdo in the film. Here, have a look. 'Panga' has been directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and is set to release in theatres on January 24.

Diplomacy underway to halt Israel's military campaign, says Jordan's king

As the Israel-Palestine conflict enters its second week, we bring you a report on the tiny Palestinian neighbourhood in Jerusalem from where a police crackdown escalated into a tit-for-tat rocket exchange. WION takes you to the heart of the conflict with ground reports from central Israel.

Gaza conflict enters second week| The story of Sheikh Jarrah

A car-ramming attack wounded several people including four police officers in the flashpoint Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood of Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem

Several injured in car-ramming attack in Jerusalem's Sheikh Jarrah

There has also been widespread violence across Israel between Israeli Jews and Palestinian citizens of Israel amid the escalation.

Palestinian FM accuses Israel of 'War Crimes' throughout Gaza

The Israeli military said fighter jets struck "terror targets", after rocket barrages from Gaza were fired at the Israeli cities of Beersheba and Ashkelon just after midnight on Monday.

Israel-Palestine violence: 60 children have died in the violence so far

As Israel gear up for the Jewish holiday of Shavuot, WION correspondent Jodie Cohen takes you inside a bomb shelter in the country as we talk to citizens about the mood and situation these days in Israel.

Israel Ground Report: WION talks to citizen inside a bomb shelter

India has called for an immediate de-escalation for the situation between Israel and Palestine at the first public United Nations Security Council meeting. India also urged Israel and Palestinian authorities to immediately resume dialogue to find a lasting solution.

India at UNSC calls for immediate de-escalation of Israel-Palestine hostilities

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