US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. The top US Diplomat is on a West Asia peace mission to deliver President Joe Biden's latest proposed plan to end the Gaza War.

Antony Blinken visits West Asia: Hamas accepts UN-backed ceasefire deal

The United Nations Security Council on Monday (June 10)&nbsp;backed a ceasefire proposal put forth by President Joe Biden to end the eight-month-old war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

As per reports, the resolution was adopted by the US and was supported by the other 14&nbsp;of the 15 members of the Security Council. Russia, however,&nbsp;abstained from voting.&nbsp;

"Today we voted for peace," said the US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield after the vote.

"Today this Council sent a clear message to Hamas: accept the ceasefire deal on the table. Israel has already agreed to this deal and the fighting could stop today if Hamas would do the same," she added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-weighs-unilateral-deal-with-hamas-for-release-of-american-captives-in-gaza-730591">US weighs unilateral deal with Hamas for release of American captives in Gaza</a>

<h2>Hamas 'welcomes' the resolution</h2>

The resolution says Israel has accepted the truce plan, and "calls upon Hamas to also accept it." The Palestinian militant group&nbsp;said that it "welcomes" the vote.

In a statement, as quoted by Reuters, the group said&nbsp;that it is ready to cooperate with mediators over implementing the principles of the plan "that are consistent with the demands of our people and resistance."

The deal&nbsp;remains uncertain as Hamas officials have insisted that any ceasefire agreement must guarantee a permanent end to the war — a demand Israel has firmly rejected, vowing to destroy Hamas and free the remaining captives.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macrons-great-gamble-why-french-president-dissolved-parliament-what-if-his-party-loses-730607">Macron's great gamble: Why did French president dissolve parliament? What if his party loses?</a>

<h2>Israel reiterates the destruction of Hamas</h2>

After the vote, Israeli diplomat Reut Shapir Ben Naftaly once again reiterated her country's stand and said that the "war will end" only when Israeli "goals are met," including the release of hostages and the destruction of Hamas.

"Hamas' refusal to release the hostages through diplomacy has proven that the effort to bring our hostages home must also include military means," she said.

Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian envoy to the United Nations, meanwhile, welcomed the Security Council's vote, and said that the "burden" of implementing the resolution and ceasefire "is on the Israeli side".

Announced on May 31 by President Joe Biden, the&nbsp;truce and hostage release proposal urges "parties to fully implement its terms without delay and without condition."

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations Security Council on Monday (June 10) backed a ceasefire proposal put forth by President Joe Biden to end the eight-month-old war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

The United Nations Security Council on Monday (June 10) backed a ceasefire proposal put forth by President Joe Biden to end the eight-month-old war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. As per reports, the resolution was adopted by the US and was supported by the other 14 of the 15 members of the Security Council. Russia, however, abstained from voting. "Today we voted for peace," said the US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield after the vote. "Today this Council sent a clear message to Hamas: accept the ceasefire deal on the table. Israel has already agreed to this deal and the fighting could stop today if Hamas would do the same," she added. Also read | US weighs unilateral deal with Hamas for release of American captives in Gaza Hamas 'welcomes' the resolution The resolution says Israel has accepted the truce plan, and "calls upon Hamas to also accept it." The Palestinian militant group said that it "welcomes" the vote. In a statement, as quoted by Reuters, the group said that it is ready to cooperate with mediators over implementing the principles of the plan "that are consistent with the demands of our people and resistance." The deal remains uncertain as Hamas officials have insisted that any ceasefire agreement must guarantee a permanent end to the war — a demand Israel has firmly rejected, vowing to destroy Hamas and free the remaining captives. Also read | Macron's great gamble: Why did French president dissolve parliament? What if his party loses? Israel reiterates the destruction of Hamas After the vote, Israeli diplomat Reut Shapir Ben Naftaly once again reiterated her country's stand and said that the "war will end" only when Israeli "goals are met," including the release of hostages and the destruction of Hamas. "Hamas' refusal to release the hostages through diplomacy has proven that the effort to bring our hostages home must also include military means," she said. Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian envoy to the United Nations, meanwhile, welcomed the Security Council's vote, and said that the "burden" of implementing the resolution and ceasefire "is on the Israeli side". Announced on May 31 by President Joe Biden, the truce and hostage release proposal urges "parties to fully implement its terms without delay and without condition." (With inputs from agencies)

UN Security Council votes 'for peace', overwhelmingly backs Biden's Gaza ceasefire plan

Anthony Blinken meets Netanyahu & Gallant during his visit to West Asia

Well as the war in Gaza rages on for eight months and Counting. WION's report gives you a glimpse into the devastation through numbers.

Israel war: A glimpse of Gaza war devastation in the form of numbers

The United Nations Security Council adopted a US-drafted resolution supporting a ceasefire plan in Gaza. The text passed with 14 votes in favour welcomes the truce and hostage release proposal announced on May 31st by President Joe Biden.

Israel-Hamas War: UN body votes to support US-proposed truce plan

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday (June 10) urged Arab leaders to pressure Hamas into accepting a ceasefire proposal outlined 10 days ago by US President Joe Biden, aimed at ending the eight-month-long war in Gaza.

On his eighth visit to the region since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, Blinken is pushing for a ceasefire deal and seeking to prevent the conflict from spreading to Lebanon.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/today-we-voted-for-peace-un-security-council-overwhelmingly-backs-bidens-gaza-ceasefire-plan-730625">UN Security Council votes 'for peace', overwhelmingly backs Biden's Gaza ceasefire plan</a>

<h2>'Say Yes'</h2>

Blinken, as per Reuters, said that Hamas remains the only outlier in not accepting the three-phase deal involving the release of hostages and cessation of hostilities, a proposal to which Israel has agreed.

"My message to governments throughout the region, to people throughout the region, is if you want a ceasefire, press Hamas to say yes," Blinken told reporters in Egypt after meeting with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.&nbsp;

Talking to Reuters, a senior Hamas official called Blinken's comments "biased to Israel."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://wionews.com/world/us-secretary-blinken-returns-to-w-asia-on-peace-mission-as-benny-gantz-israels-gaza-general-resign-730413">US Secretary of State Blinken returns to W. Asia on peace mission amid Israeli resignations</a>

&nbsp;

<h2>Blinken in Israel</h2>

After Egypt, Blinken travelled to Israel, where he updated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the "ongoing diplomatic efforts to plan for the post-conflict period."

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a readout of the meeting that Blinken also "reiterated that the proposal on the table would unlock the possibility of calm along Israel's northern border and further integration with countries in the region."

Ceasefire talks have intensified following Biden's proposal, with CIA director William Burns engaging with Qatari and Egyptian officials in Doha. Despite repeated assertions from Biden about imminent ceasefires, only a single week-long truce occurred in November.&nbsp;On Monday, the United Nations Security Council also overwhelmingly backed Biden's proposal.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday (June 10) urged Arab leaders to pressure Hamas into accepting a ceasefire proposal outlined 10 days ago by US President Joe Biden, aimed at ending the eight-month-long war in Gaza.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday (June 10) urged Arab leaders to pressure Hamas into accepting a ceasefire proposal outlined 10 days ago by US President Joe Biden, aimed at ending the eight-month-long war in Gaza. On his eighth visit to the region since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, Blinken is pushing for a ceasefire deal and seeking to prevent the conflict from spreading to Lebanon. Also read | UN Security Council votes 'for peace', overwhelmingly backs Biden's Gaza ceasefire plan 'Say Yes' Blinken, as per Reuters, said that Hamas remains the only outlier in not accepting the three-phase deal involving the release of hostages and cessation of hostilities, a proposal to which Israel has agreed. "My message to governments throughout the region, to people throughout the region, is if you want a ceasefire, press Hamas to say yes," Blinken told reporters in Egypt after meeting with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Talking to Reuters, a senior Hamas official called Blinken's comments "biased to Israel." Also read | US Secretary of State Blinken returns to W. Asia on peace mission amid Israeli resignations Blinken in Israel After Egypt, Blinken travelled to Israel, where he updated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the "ongoing diplomatic efforts to plan for the post-conflict period." State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a readout of the meeting that Blinken also "reiterated that the proposal on the table would unlock the possibility of calm along Israel's northern border and further integration with countries in the region." Ceasefire talks have intensified following Biden's proposal, with CIA director William Burns engaging with Qatari and Egyptian officials in Doha. Despite repeated assertions from Biden about imminent ceasefires, only a single week-long truce occurred in November. On Monday, the United Nations Security Council also overwhelmingly backed Biden's proposal. (With inputs from agencies)

US pushes for Gaza peace: Blinken visits Israel and Egypt to secure ceasefire

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is headed back to the Middle East to push a plan for a ceasefire. This will be Blinken's eighth visit to the region since the war erupted and will include a visit to Israel.&nbsp;

It comes as Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz and the Israeli general in charge of the Gaza Strip area on Sunday (June 9) announced their resignations.

<h2>Blinken in West Asia</h2>

As per an AFP report, the US diplomat will start his West Asia visit in Egypt with talks with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. From there, he will go to Israel for talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Blinken's Middle East tour will also include visits to Jordan and Qatar, after which he will join Biden at the summit with the Group of Seven in Italy on Wednesday (June 12).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-drops-dramatic-footage-of-rescue-of-four-hamas-hostages-in-complex-daytime-operation-730368">Israel drops dramatic footage of rescue of four Hamas hostages in 'complex daytime operation'</a>

This visit follows President Joe Biden's May 31 proposal to end the conflict.

As per the report, the political dynamics in Israel and the silence from Hamas on Biden's proposal make the prospect of a ceasefire plan unlikely by the day. Hamas is yet to formally respond to the proposal.

<h2>Multiple high-level resignations in one day</h2>

Further complicating&nbsp;matters, Benny Gantz, a critical former MP stepped down from Netanyahu's war cabinet, saying that the prime minister has failed to finalise a plan for a "real victory", including coming up with post-war plans for Gaza.

The MP had asked for a post-war plan for Gaza approved by Netanyahu last month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-war-cabinet-minister-benny-gantz-quits-government-730338">Benny Gantz quits from Israeli war cabinet, accuses PM Netanyahu of preventing 'true victory'</a>

Gantz, a key centrist, leads in polls as Netanyahu's replacement if new elections are called. His resignation complicates US peace plans&nbsp;as his departure can help further embolden Netanyahu's far-right supporters, who are hostile to compromise.

<h2>Why did the Gaza commander resign?</h2>

Brig. Gen. Avi Rosenfeld, the head of the Israel Defense Force's Gaza Division, in a letter to his superiors, cited Hamas' October 7 attack and his failure to counter it as reasons for the resignation. He&nbsp;is only the second senior IDF officer to resign over the Hamas&nbsp;attack. Previously, the chief of the Military Intelligence Directorate announced he was quitting in April.

According to the Times of Israel, Rosenfeld said in the letter, "On October 7, I failed in my life’s mission to protect the [Gaza border communities]."

"Everyone has to take responsibility for their part, and I am the one in charge of the 143rd Division (the Gaza Division)," he said.

"As I promised, I will stay until my replacement takes over the role, and I will transfer command over the division in an orderly and responsible manner."

"I intend to continue to take part in the investigations and the learning of lessons, to do everything so that what happened on October 7 does not happen in the future," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is headed back to the Middle East to push a plan for a ceasefire. This will be Blinken's eighth visit to the region since the war erupted and will include a visit to Israel.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is headed back to the Middle East to push a plan for a ceasefire. This will be Blinken's eighth visit to the region since the war erupted and will include a visit to Israel. It comes as Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz and the Israeli general in charge of the Gaza Strip area on Sunday (June 9) announced their resignations. Blinken in West Asia As per an AFP report, the US diplomat will start his West Asia visit in Egypt with talks with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. From there, he will go to Israel for talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Blinken's Middle East tour will also include visits to Jordan and Qatar, after which he will join Biden at the summit with the Group of Seven in Italy on Wednesday (June 12). Also read | Israel drops dramatic footage of rescue of four Hamas hostages in 'complex daytime operation' This visit follows President Joe Biden's May 31 proposal to end the conflict. As per the report, the political dynamics in Israel and the silence from Hamas on Biden's proposal make the prospect of a ceasefire plan unlikely by the day. Hamas is yet to formally respond to the proposal. Multiple high-level resignations in one day Further complicating matters, Benny Gantz, a critical former MP stepped down from Netanyahu's war cabinet, saying that the prime minister has failed to finalise a plan for a "real victory", including coming up with post-war plans for Gaza. The MP had asked for a post-war plan for Gaza approved by Netanyahu last month. Also read | Benny Gantz quits from Israeli war cabinet, accuses PM Netanyahu of preventing 'true victory' Gantz, a key centrist, leads in polls as Netanyahu's replacement if new elections are called. His resignation complicates US peace plans as his departure can help further embolden Netanyahu's far-right supporters, who are hostile to compromise. Why did the Gaza commander resign? Brig. Gen. Avi Rosenfeld, the head of the Israel Defense Force's Gaza Division, in a letter to his superiors, cited Hamas' October 7 attack and his failure to counter it as reasons for the resignation. He is only the second senior IDF officer to resign over the Hamas attack. Previously, the chief of the Military Intelligence Directorate announced he was quitting in April. According to the Times of Israel, Rosenfeld said in the letter, "On October 7, I failed in my life’s mission to protect the [Gaza border communities]." "Everyone has to take responsibility for their part, and I am the one in charge of the 143rd Division (the Gaza Division)," he said. "As I promised, I will stay until my replacement takes over the role, and I will transfer command over the division in an orderly and responsible manner." "I intend to continue to take part in the investigations and the learning of lessons, to do everything so that what happened on October 7 does not happen in the future," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Blinken returns to W. Asia on peace mission amid Israeli resignations

Australian Prime Minster Anthony Albanese on Monday condemned vandalism of the U.S. consulate in Sydney after the building was defaced in what local media said appeared to be a pro-Palestinian protest.

The building in the northern suburbs of Australia's largest city was attacked and sprayed with paint by a person carrying a small sledgehammer at around 3 a.m. local time on Monday.

"I would just say that people should have respectful political debate and discourse," Albanese said in a televised media conference from Canberra when asked about the incident.

"Measures such as painting the U.S. Consulate do nothing to advance the cause of those who have committed what is of course a crime to damage property," he added.

Nine windows of the consulate were damaged and the building's door was graffitied, police said.

"CCTV has been sourced that shows a person wearing a dark coloured hoodie with their face obscured carrying what appears to be a small sledgehammer," a police spokesperson told Reuters by phone.

A spokesperson for the U.S. consulate confirmed the building had been damaged but said staff and operations were unaffected.

"Australian Federal Police and New South Wales Police are investigating the incident," the spokesperson said in a statement.

Photos of the consulate on the website of the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper showed inverted red triangles sprayed on the building's front. The symbol is used by some pro-Palestinian activists, it reported.

The same building was sprayed with graffiti in April, while the U.S. consulate in Melbourne was graffitied by pro-Palestine activists in May, according to the newspaper.

Long a stalwart ally of Israel, Australia has become increasingly critical of its conduct in Gaza, where an Australian aid worker was killed in an Israeli attack earlier this year.

Last month, camps sprang up at universities in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and other Australian cities protesting Israel's war in Gaza and claiming the Australian government has not done enough to push for peace.

Australian Prime Minster Anthony Albanese on Monday condemned vandalism of the U.S. consulate in Sydney after the building was defaced in what local media said appeared to be a pro-Palestinian protest.

Australian Prime Minster Anthony Albanese on Monday condemned vandalism of the U.S. consulate in Sydney after the building was defaced in what local media said appeared to be a pro-Palestinian protest. The building in the northern suburbs of Australia's largest city was attacked and sprayed with paint by a person carrying a small sledgehammer at around 3 a.m. local time on Monday. "I would just say that people should have respectful political debate and discourse," Albanese said in a televised media conference from Canberra when asked about the incident. "Measures such as painting the U.S. Consulate do nothing to advance the cause of those who have committed what is of course a crime to damage property," he added. Nine windows of the consulate were damaged and the building's door was graffitied, police said. "CCTV has been sourced that shows a person wearing a dark coloured hoodie with their face obscured carrying what appears to be a small sledgehammer," a police spokesperson told Reuters by phone. A spokesperson for the U.S. consulate confirmed the building had been damaged but said staff and operations were unaffected. "Australian Federal Police and New South Wales Police are investigating the incident," the spokesperson said in a statement. Photos of the consulate on the website of the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper showed inverted red triangles sprayed on the building's front. The symbol is used by some pro-Palestinian activists, it reported. The same building was sprayed with graffiti in April, while the U.S. consulate in Melbourne was graffitied by pro-Palestine activists in May, according to the newspaper. Long a stalwart ally of Israel, Australia has become increasingly critical of its conduct in Gaza, where an Australian aid worker was killed in an Israeli attack earlier this year. Last month, camps sprang up at universities in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and other Australian cities protesting Israel's war in Gaza and claiming the Australian government has not done enough to push for peace.

Australia PM condemns graffiti attack on US consulate in Sydney

Centre-right leader Benny Gantz resigns from Israel's war cabinet, citing lack of "the day after" plans for Gaza by the current government. We speak to Helit Barel, former director, Israel's national security council- who says no one in Israel wants this war to stretch, we want a comprehensive deal on hostages, and the Gaza Strip to be governed by PLA or others but not the Hamas.

Israel war: Israel war cabinet divided

Israeli forces are continuing to pound Central and Southern parts of Gaza. The Palestine Red Crescent Society informed that an Israeli strike on a house in Central Gaza's Deir Al-Balah has wounded over 10 people.

Israel war: Israel continues to pound central Gaza

Israeli Wartime Cabinet Minister Benny Gantz postponed his expected resignation announcement following a rescue operation in the Gaza Strip in which four Israeli hostages were released.

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli minister cancels resignation speech after hostages rescued from Gaza

Israelis celebrated Saturday the release of four hostages from Gaza in a military operation, cheering on beaches and gathering outside the hospital where the former captives underwent medical checks.

Israel-Hamas war: Israelis celebrate after four hostages taken from Nova festival rescued

Israeli forces have rescued about four hostages from the Al-Nuseirat area of central Gaza the hostages include three men and one woman who remembered to have been taken hostage by Hamas Fighters.

Israel war: IDF rescues 4 hostages from Gaza

Israel war: Netanyahu meets and speaks to rescued hostages

The UN has decided to include Israel in the black list of countries and organizations that harm children in conflict zones. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hamas war: UN adds Israel to list of states committing violations against children

Israel war: Israel rescues four hostages from Gaza

Benny Gantz, a key member of Israel’s war cabinet, might resign from the government by Saturday night, following his ultimatum to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on presenting a plan for the day after the Gaza war.

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli Minister Gantz's deadline ends today

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will soon address the US Congress. PM Netanyahu, who has an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him, will address US lawmakers in the Congress on July 24. He has received an invitation from Republican and Democratic leaders, reports AFP.&nbsp;

<h2>Invitation to Netanyahu</h2>

News of this potential visit comes amidst calls for a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and as Israel faces increasing international diplomatic isolation over the high casualty figures in Gaza.

It also follows a rare and critical call from Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer in March for Israel to hold new elections, criticising the country's management of the Gaza conflict. Progressive Democrats have also voiced strong disapproval of Netanyahu's handling of the military response and have vowed to boycott his speech.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-raise-death-to-arabs-slogan-in-jerusalem-day-flag-march-729310">Israelis raise 'Death to Arabs' slogan in Jerusalem Day Flag March&nbsp;</a>

The invitation to Netanyahu was reportedly extended by the four party leaders in the US House and Senate, who expressed solidarity with Israel in its "struggle against terror, especially as Hamas continues to hold American and Israeli citizens captive."

While US media was speculating a visit date of June 13, Netanyahu's office has clarified that this date is not final and conflicts with a Jewish holiday.

<h2>Calls for ceasefire&nbsp;</h2>

Just last week, US President Biden proposed a three-phase plan that seeks to end the conflict, secure the release of all hostages, and reconstruct Gaza without Hamas in control.

However, Netanyahu's office, as per AFP, reiterated that military operations will continue until Israel's "goals" including the destruction of Hamas, "are achieved". Hamas has not responded to this plan.

Efforts for a truce and a hostage-prisoner exchange between the two warring sides are being mediated by US, Qatari, and Egyptian officials. At the same time, Israel is facing increased diplomatic pushback.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-persichitti-world-war-ii-veteran-died-en-route-to-d-day-commemorations-729476">Robert Persichitti, World War II veteran dies en route to D-Day commemorations</a>

This includes international court cases accusing it of war crimes and recognition of Palestinian statehood by several European nations. In May, ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan even sought an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

However, in support of Netanyahu and Israel, recently, on June 4 (Tuesday) the Republican-led US House of Representatives passed legislation that seeks to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). This bill and the subsequent sanctions are in response to the ICC prosecutor's decision to pursue arrest warrants for Israeli officials related to the ongoing war in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will soon address the US Congress. PM Netanyahu, who has an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him, will address US lawmakers in the Congress on July 24.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will soon address the US Congress. PM Netanyahu, who has an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him, will address US lawmakers in the Congress on July 24. He has received an invitation from Republican and Democratic leaders, reports AFP. Invitation to Netanyahu News of this potential visit comes amidst calls for a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and as Israel faces increasing international diplomatic isolation over the high casualty figures in Gaza. It also follows a rare and critical call from Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer in March for Israel to hold new elections, criticising the country's management of the Gaza conflict. Progressive Democrats have also voiced strong disapproval of Netanyahu's handling of the military response and have vowed to boycott his speech. Also read | Israelis raise 'Death to Arabs' slogan in Jerusalem Day Flag March The invitation to Netanyahu was reportedly extended by the four party leaders in the US House and Senate, who expressed solidarity with Israel in its "struggle against terror, especially as Hamas continues to hold American and Israeli citizens captive." While US media was speculating a visit date of June 13, Netanyahu's office has clarified that this date is not final and conflicts with a Jewish holiday. Calls for ceasefire Just last week, US President Biden proposed a three-phase plan that seeks to end the conflict, secure the release of all hostages, and reconstruct Gaza without Hamas in control. However, Netanyahu's office, as per AFP, reiterated that military operations will continue until Israel's "goals" including the destruction of Hamas, "are achieved". Hamas has not responded to this plan. Efforts for a truce and a hostage-prisoner exchange between the two warring sides are being mediated by US, Qatari, and Egyptian officials. At the same time, Israel is facing increased diplomatic pushback. Also read | Robert Persichitti, World War II veteran dies en route to D-Day commemorations This includes international court cases accusing it of war crimes and recognition of Palestinian statehood by several European nations. In May, ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan even sought an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. However, in support of Netanyahu and Israel, recently, on June 4 (Tuesday) the Republican-led US House of Representatives passed legislation that seeks to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). This bill and the subsequent sanctions are in response to the ICC prosecutor's decision to pursue arrest warrants for Israeli officials related to the ongoing war in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

US Congress invites Israeli PM Netanyahu to speak amid ICC warrant controversy and Gaza crisis

Britain's opposition Labour Party is expected to include a pledge to recognise a Palestinian state at an appropriate time in peace talks in its election manifesto, the Guardian newspaper reported, citing people with knowledge of the document.

UK's Labour to include pledge on recognizing Palestinian state in election manifesto

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned on Wednesday that Israel was prepared with an “extremely powerful” response to attacks from Hezbollah in Lebanon, which have escalated significantly in recent days.Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Israel fighting multi-pronged war: Netanyahu

Amid the ongoing ceasefire talks, the Israeli army has said that it has carried out a deadly strike on a UN in school in Central Gaza which it claims houses a Hamas compound.

Israel-war:  Strike on UN school kills 'dozens', Hamas calls strike 'horrific massacre'

In a significant move, the Republican-led US House of Representatives has passed a legislation that seeks to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). These bills and the subsequent sanctions are in response to the ICC prosecutor's decision to pursue arrest warrants for Israeli officials related to the ongoing war in Gaza.

<h2>America supports Israel</h2>

Titled the US House's "Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act",&nbsp;Reuters reports that the contentious vote ended with 247 lawmakers in favour and 155 against. This includes support from 42 Democrats.&nbsp;

Notably, none of the Republicans voted "nay," although two opted to vote "present" instead of an "aye".

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In s statement, as reported by AFP, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said, "Today's vote draws a line in the sand for lawless action by ICC officials."

"The US firmly stands with Israel and refuses to allow international bureaucrats to baselessly issue arrest warrants to Israeli leadership for false crimes," he added.

<h2>Will it become a law?</h2>

While the bill is not expected to become law, as per the report, it underscores the strong backing for Israel in Congress amidst international criticism of its Gaza campaign.&nbsp;

Last month, the White House had also condemned the ICC's decision to seek these arrest warrants.

It is unlikely to take up the measure for a vote in the Senate, which has a narrow Democratic majority.

However, if it were to pass, the legislation would impose sanctions on individuals involved in ICC prosecutions of Americans or citizens of US allies who are not members of the ICC, such as Israel.&nbsp;

These sanctions would include barring entry to the US, revoking visas, and restricting them from property transactions in the nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-nagasaki-snubs-israels-invite-to-peace-ceremony-calls-for-truce-in-gaza-728672">Japan’s Nagasaki snubs Israel: No invite to peace ceremony, calls for truce in Gaza</a>

<h2>ICC's stand</h2>

Recently, ICC prosecutor Karim Khan said that after more than seven months into the conflict in Gaza, there were reasonable grounds to believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and&nbsp;his defence chief "bear criminal responsibility" for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Khan also sought to penalise three Hamas leaders for the same.

Netanyahu, however, called the ICC's decision absurd, arguing that it targets all of Israel.

The Gaza conflict escalated dramatically last October, when Israel launched an extensive air and ground offensive in Gaza, aiming to dismantle Hamas. This was retaliation for a brutal Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, which left around 1,200 people dead and over 250 taken hostages, according to Israeli figures.&nbsp;

Currently, approximately 120 hostages remain in Gaza.

Meanwhile, according to local health authorities, the Israeli military's retaliatory campaign has resulted in over 36,000 deaths in densely populated Gaza. They also&nbsp;report that thousands of bodies remain buried under rubble.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a significant move, the Republican-led US House of Representatives has passed a legislation that seeks to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC).

In a significant move, the Republican-led US House of Representatives has passed a legislation that seeks to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). These bills and the subsequent sanctions are in response to the ICC prosecutor's decision to pursue arrest warrants for Israeli officials related to the ongoing war in Gaza. America supports Israel Titled the US House's "Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act", Reuters reports that the contentious vote ended with 247 lawmakers in favour and 155 against. This includes support from 42 Democrats. Notably, none of the Republicans voted "nay," although two opted to vote "present" instead of an "aye". Also read | Forest fires triggered by Hezbollah rockets spread through northern Israel In s statement, as reported by AFP, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said, "Today's vote draws a line in the sand for lawless action by ICC officials." "The US firmly stands with Israel and refuses to allow international bureaucrats to baselessly issue arrest warrants to Israeli leadership for false crimes," he added. Will it become a law? While the bill is not expected to become law, as per the report, it underscores the strong backing for Israel in Congress amidst international criticism of its Gaza campaign. Last month, the White House had also condemned the ICC's decision to seek these arrest warrants. It is unlikely to take up the measure for a vote in the Senate, which has a narrow Democratic majority. However, if it were to pass, the legislation would impose sanctions on individuals involved in ICC prosecutions of Americans or citizens of US allies who are not members of the ICC, such as Israel. These sanctions would include barring entry to the US, revoking visas, and restricting them from property transactions in the nation. Also read | Japan’s Nagasaki snubs Israel: No invite to peace ceremony, calls for truce in Gaza ICC's stand Recently, ICC prosecutor Karim Khan said that after more than seven months into the conflict in Gaza, there were reasonable grounds to believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defence chief "bear criminal responsibility" for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Khan also sought to penalise three Hamas leaders for the same. Netanyahu, however, called the ICC's decision absurd, arguing that it targets all of Israel. The Gaza conflict escalated dramatically last October, when Israel launched an extensive air and ground offensive in Gaza, aiming to dismantle Hamas. This was retaliation for a brutal Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, which left around 1,200 people dead and over 250 taken hostages, according to Israeli figures. Currently, approximately 120 hostages remain in Gaza. Meanwhile, according to local health authorities, the Israeli military's retaliatory campaign has resulted in over 36,000 deaths in densely populated Gaza. They also report that thousands of bodies remain buried under rubble. (With inputs from agencies)

Republican-led US House votes to sanction ICC, defends Israel against war crime charges

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The Israeli military, on Monday (June 3) confirmed the deaths of four Israeli hostages who were abducted by Hamas on October 7.

<h2>Hostages Identified</h2>

The four hostages have been identified as 80-year-old Chaim Peri, 80-year-old Yoram Metzger, 84-year-old Amiram Cooper, and 51-year-old Nadav Popplewell.&nbsp;

As per the Israeli military, the four men were held by the Palestinian Islamist group, which now has their bodies.

Videos posted by Hamas last month had shown all four men alive. However, Hamas as per Reuters later claimed that Popplewell died from wounds inflicted by an Israeli air strike when posting his video last month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-shuts-doors-on-israelis-israeli-embassy-suggests-beachy-alternatives-in-india-728287">Israeli embassy endorses ‘amazing’ Indian beaches after Maldives ban on entry over Gaza war</a>

Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, an Israeli military spokesperson, stated that new intelligence led to the confirmation of their deaths. He said that the military believes the four men were killed together in Khan Yunis, a southern city in Gaza, several months ago while Israeli forces were active in the area.

"We assess that the four of them were killed while together in the area of Khan Yunis during our operation there against Hamas."

Hagari assured that the circumstances of their deaths are being thoroughly investigated, with findings to be shared transparently with the families first&nbsp;and then with the public.

Chaim Peri, who was 80, was at his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz during the Hamas attack. In a conversation with Reuters, his son recounted that Peri tried to protect his wife by hiding her behind a sofa and eventually surrendered to the gunmen to save her.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-deems-bidens-gaza-proposal-partial-but-says-plan-can-kick-off-without-full-agreement-728394">Netanyahu deems Biden’s Gaza proposal ‘partial’ but says plan can kick off without full agreement</a>

Amiram Cooper and Yoram Metzger, also from Nir Oz, were captured along with their wives, who were later released during a brief truce in November.

Nadav Popplewell was taken along with his mother from her home in Kibbutz Nirim. His brother was killed during the attack, and his mother was freed in the November truce.

<h2>Greatly saddened</h2>

Reacting to the Israeli military update on the Oct 7 hostages, and the death of Israeli-British Popplewell, British foreign minister David Cameron said he was "greatly saddened to hear about the death".

"We reiterate our demand for Hamas to send all hostages home," he added.

Of the more than 250 individuals kidnapped on October 7, around 120 remain in Gaza, with many others having been declared dead by Israeli authorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli military, on Monday (June 3) confirmed the deaths of four Israeli hostages who were abducted by Hamas on October 7. Hostages Identified The four hostages have been identified as 80-year-old Chaim Peri, 80-year-old Yoram Metzger, 84-year-old Amiram Cooper, and 51-year-old Nadav Popplewell.

The Israeli military, on Monday (June 3) confirmed the deaths of four Israeli hostages who were abducted by Hamas on October 7. Hostages Identified The four hostages have been identified as 80-year-old Chaim Peri, 80-year-old Yoram Metzger, 84-year-old Amiram Cooper, and 51-year-old Nadav Popplewell. As per the Israeli military, the four men were held by the Palestinian Islamist group, which now has their bodies. Videos posted by Hamas last month had shown all four men alive. However, Hamas as per Reuters later claimed that Popplewell died from wounds inflicted by an Israeli air strike when posting his video last month. Also read | Israeli embassy endorses ‘amazing’ Indian beaches after Maldives ban on entry over Gaza war Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, an Israeli military spokesperson, stated that new intelligence led to the confirmation of their deaths. He said that the military believes the four men were killed together in Khan Yunis, a southern city in Gaza, several months ago while Israeli forces were active in the area. "We assess that the four of them were killed while together in the area of Khan Yunis during our operation there against Hamas." Hagari assured that the circumstances of their deaths are being thoroughly investigated, with findings to be shared transparently with the families first and then with the public. Chaim Peri, who was 80, was at his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz during the Hamas attack. In a conversation with Reuters, his son recounted that Peri tried to protect his wife by hiding her behind a sofa and eventually surrendered to the gunmen to save her. Also read | Netanyahu deems Biden’s Gaza proposal ‘partial’ but says plan can kick off without full agreement Amiram Cooper and Yoram Metzger, also from Nir Oz, were captured along with their wives, who were later released during a brief truce in November. Nadav Popplewell was taken along with his mother from her home in Kibbutz Nirim. His brother was killed during the attack, and his mother was freed in the November truce. Greatly saddened Reacting to the Israeli military update on the Oct 7 hostages, and the death of Israeli-British Popplewell, British foreign minister David Cameron said he was "greatly saddened to hear about the death". "We reiterate our demand for Hamas to send all hostages home," he added. Of the more than 250 individuals kidnapped on October 7, around 120 remain in Gaza, with many others having been declared dead by Israeli authorities. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel confirms death of four hostages held by Hamas since October

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