<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Israel on Tuesday (March 18) launched attacks across Gaza which killed more than 400 people, with hundreds more injured.</span></p>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Among the dead are senior Hamas officials as well as many civilians, including women and children. </span></p>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Israel's strikes come at a time when mediators from both sides were discussing the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire in Egypt.</span></p>
<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partnering-in-genocide-hamas-accuses-us-of-coordinating-with-israel-as-idf-launches-airstrikes-in-gaza-8865543">'US responsible for massacre': Hamas accuses Trump admin of partnering with Israel as airstrike kills 330 in Gaza</a></span></strong></p>
<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Why has Israel struck Gaza now?</span></strong></h2>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">The Israeli government has been threatening to escalate operations against Hamas for weeks. Israeli government has been giving the logic that targeting Hamas&rsquo; leadership, now could lead to the release of more hostages. However, many families of hostages in Israel disagree with this reasoning and believe that it could endanger the lives of their loved ones.</span></p>
<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-confirms-head-of-its-government-killed-in-israeli-strikes-in-gaza-8865765">Hamas confirms head of its government killed in Israeli strikes in Gaza</a></span></strong></p>
<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">What about ceasefire talks?</span></strong></h2>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">This offensive comes just over two weeks after the first phase of a ceasefire agreement ended. The second phase of the deal which is still in the negotiation process was meant to bring about an end to the war, a </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true">full</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true"> Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the release of all remaining Israeli hostages.</span></p>
<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">The blame game</span></strong></h2>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Israel had earlier proposed extending the initial phase of the ceasefire for 30 to 60 days to allow more hostages to be freed in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Hamas rejected this offer, demanding a second phase of the </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true">ceasefire</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true">.</span></p>
<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-in-gaza-kill-senior-hamas-leaders-including-head-of-interior-ministry-8865099">Israel strikes in Gaza kill senior Hamas leaders, including head of interior ministry: Reports</a></span></strong></p>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Israel claims Hamas broke the ceasefire by refusing further hostage releases. Hamas, in turn, accuses Israel of failing to proceed to the second phase of the agreement, which was supposed to involve further releases.</span></p>
<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">What about the future?</span></strong></h2>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">The fragile two-month pause in fighting is now over, and a diplomatic resolution appears unlikely </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true">in the near future</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true">. Israeli officials claim that the strikes are just the beginning of a much broader operation, which will continue until Hamas releases the remaining 59 hostages.</span></p>
<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-conducts-extensive-strikes-on-terror-targets-in-gaza-8863796">Over 330 killed as Israel conducts 'extensive strikes on terror targets' in Gaza, shattering truce</a></span></strong></p>
<p><em><span data-preserver-spaces="true">(With inputs from agencies)</span></em></p>

World, Middle East: Israel's latest offensive in Gaza comes just over two weeks after the first phase of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas ended.

Israel on Tuesday (March 18) launched attacks across Gaza which killed more than 400 people, with hundreds more injured. Among the dead are senior Hamas officials as well as many civilians, including women and children. Israel's strikes come at a time when mediators from both sides were discussing the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire in Egypt. Also read: 'US responsible for massacre': Hamas accuses Trump admin of partnering with Israel as airstrike kills 330 in Gaza Why has Israel struck Gaza now? The Israeli government has been threatening to escalate operations against Hamas for weeks. Israeli government has been giving the logic that targeting Hamas’ leadership, now could lead to the release of more hostages. However, many families of hostages in Israel disagree with this reasoning and believe that it could endanger the lives of their loved ones. Also read: Hamas confirms head of its government killed in Israeli strikes in Gaza What about ceasefire talks? This offensive comes just over two weeks after the first phase of a ceasefire agreement ended. The second phase of the deal which is still in the negotiation process was meant to bring about an end to the war, a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the release of all remaining Israeli hostages. The blame game Israel had earlier proposed extending the initial phase of the ceasefire for 30 to 60 days to allow more hostages to be freed in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Hamas rejected this offer, demanding a second phase of the ceasefire. Also read: Israel strikes in Gaza kill senior Hamas leaders, including head of interior ministry: Reports Israel claims Hamas broke the ceasefire by refusing further hostage releases. Hamas, in turn, accuses Israel of failing to proceed to the second phase of the agreement, which was supposed to involve further releases. What about the future? The fragile two-month pause in fighting is now over, and a diplomatic resolution appears unlikely in the near future. Israeli officials claim that the strikes are just the beginning of a much broader operation, which will continue until Hamas releases the remaining 59 hostages. Also read: Over 330 killed as Israel conducts 'extensive strikes on terror targets' in Gaza, shattering truce (With inputs from agencies)

Israel’s latest Gaza attack kills 400: Why is it happening now, and what does it mean for ceasefire?

Reports suggest that Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland are being considered for a resettlement plan for Gazans as part of Trump’s Israel-Hamas postwar strategy. However, Sudan has rejected US overtures regarding Palestine.

Trump's postwar plan for Gaza sparks debate in Israel

#Gravitas US President Donald Trump has made a sharp U-turn on one of his most controversial proposals.  After weeks of pushing for a US-led takeover of Gaza and even suggesting that Palestinians should be permanently removed, Trump has now said that nobody is expelling any Palestinians.

Nobody is expelling any Palestinians: Trump

Pro-Palestinian activists vandalised Donald Trump's golf course in Scotland, scrawling "Free Gaza" slogans in red paint across its walls. The activist group "Palestine Action" has claimed responsibility for the act, which comes amid growing global protests over the Israel-Gaza conflict. Authorities are investigating the incident.

Pro-Palestinian activists vandalise Trump’s Scotland golf course with slogans

Pro-Palestinian graffiti has defaced US President Donald Trump’s Turnberry golf resort in Scotland, with the activist group Palestine Action taking credit for the vandalism.

 On Saturday, local media shared images depicting red paint smeared across the resort’s walls with messages like “Free Gaza” and “Free Palestine,” as well as insults aimed at Trump.  Across the course, holes were excavated, and one of the greens was marred with the inscription “Gaza is not for sale.”

Donald Trump’s Golf Resort Vandalize in Scotland Pro-Palestine With Graffiti | WION

<p>UK police closed the area around Big Ben in London on Saturday after a man holding a Palestinian flag climbed up the tower housing the famous clock and bell.</p>
<p>The man had ascended several metres (feet) and was perched barefoot on a ledge of the historic structure, whose official name is Elizabeth Tower, according to an AFP journalist at the scene.</p>
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<p>Crowds looked on from beyond a police cordon, while emergency vehicles were deployed in the area and Westminster Bridge was closed.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-thanks-trump-for-backing-israel-against-monstrous-hamas-after-us-prez-warns-hell-to-pay-8835194">Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against 'monstrous' Hamas after US prez warns 'hell to pay'</a></strong></p>
<p>Police said they were first alerted "to a man climbing up the Elizabeth Tower at the Houses of Parliament" shortly after 0700 GMT.</p>
<p>At around 1000 GMT, an emergency team used a fire truck lift and a megaphone to try to speak with the man.</p>
<p>But he was still there several hours later.</p>
<p>"Officers are at the scene working to bring the incident to a safe conclusion," London's Metropolitan Police force told AFP.</p>
<p>"They are being assisted by the London Fire Brigade and the London Ambulance Service."</p>
<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>

World: The man had ascended several metres (feet) and was perched barefoot on a ledge of the historic structure, whose official name is Elizabeth Tower, according to an AFP journalist at the scene.

UK police closed the area around Big Ben in London on Saturday after a man holding a Palestinian flag climbed up the tower housing the famous clock and bell. The man had ascended several metres (feet) and was perched barefoot on a ledge of the historic structure, whose official name is Elizabeth Tower, according to an AFP journalist at the scene. View this post on Instagram A post shared by WION (@wionews) Crowds looked on from beyond a police cordon, while emergency vehicles were deployed in the area and Westminster Bridge was closed. Also read: Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against 'monstrous' Hamas after US prez warns 'hell to pay' Police said they were first alerted "to a man climbing up the Elizabeth Tower at the Houses of Parliament" shortly after 0700 GMT. At around 1000 GMT, an emergency team used a fire truck lift and a megaphone to try to speak with the man. But he was still there several hours later. "Officers are at the scene working to bring the incident to a safe conclusion," London's Metropolitan Police force told AFP. "They are being assisted by the London Fire Brigade and the London Ambulance Service." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

London Police shut down Big Ben area as barefoot protester climbs famous clock tower

Resilience has a face, its face is that of Palestinians in Gaza. On the rubble & ruins of their own homes, thousands of Palestinians in Gaza had their first iftaari meal.

Palestinians iftaari in Rafah

Arab leaders have accepted Egypt's plan to rebuild Gaza. It is an alternative to the US President's proposal to expel Palestinians from their land. Israel says that Arab leaders have failed to address the situation after Hamas' October 7 attack. What is the larger picture here?

Egypt's Alternative to Trump's Gaza Riviera

With Gaza negotiation talks at a standstill, questions loom over the fate of Palestinians. The Arab world is grappling with a future Gaza plan that could serve as an alternative to US President Donald Trump's vision for West Asia. Watch in for more details!

Egypt's Gaza plan excludes Hamas from future governance

For the first time in 20 years, Israel sent its tanks to the occupied West Bank for an extended stay in the Palestinian territory.

Netanyahu orders troops to fight by all means

<p>Qatar, a key mediator in the Gaza conflict, said on Tuesday that Palestinians&mdash;not outsiders&mdash;must decide the territory's future after the Israel-Hamas war.</p>
<p>Foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari told a Doha news conference that the issue was "a Palestinian question", after Israel insisted on removing Hamas and the United States proposed taking over the territory.</p>
<p>"From our perspective, this is a Palestinian question on what happens post this conflict," said Ansari when asked about Israel's stated objective to eliminate Hamas.</p>
<p>"It is a Palestinian question on who represents the Palestinians in an official capacity and also the political groups and parties in the political sphere," he said.</p>
<p>Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said earlier Tuesday that negotiations for the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire, which Qatar helped broker, would begin this week.</p>
<p>The second phase of the truce is meant to facilitate the release of all remaining hostages seized during Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack that sparked the war and lead to a permanent end to the fighting.</p>
<p>Saar said Israel demanded the "complete demilitarisation of Gaza" and would "not accept the continued presence of Hamas or any other terrorist groups" in the territory, ruled by Hamas since 2007.</p>
<p>US President Donald Trump has proposed a takeover of the Gaza Strip, under which its 2.4 million inhabitants would be moved to Egypt or Jordan.</p>
<p>The plan has drawn widespread condemnation, with Arab states preparing a response.</p>
<p>Trump's proposal has added strains to the fragile Gaza ceasefire, which has largely halted the violence since it took effect on January 19, after more than 15 months of war.</p>
<p>The ongoing first phase of the truce, which is set to expire on March 1, has so far seen the release of 19 Israeli hostages in exchange for more than 1,100 Palestinians in Israeli custody.</p>
<p>More hostage-prisoner exchanges are expected before the end of the first phase, which has also allowed humanitarian aid into besieged Gaza.</p>
<p>Hamas, however, has accused Israel of blocking the entry of prefabricated structures and heavy machinery to clear rubble.</p>
<p>Ansari, the Qatari spokesman, said that "the aid the enters the Gaza Strip today is insufficient".</p>
<p>"Using humanitarian aid as a bargaining chip in negotiations is a crime in and of itself."</p>
<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>

World: Foreign ministry spokesman said that the issue was "a Palestinian question", after Israel insisted on removing Hamas and the US proposed taking over the territory.

Qatar, a key mediator in the Gaza conflict, said on Tuesday that Palestinians—not outsiders—must decide the territory's future after the Israel-Hamas war. Foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari told a Doha news conference that the issue was "a Palestinian question", after Israel insisted on removing Hamas and the United States proposed taking over the territory. "From our perspective, this is a Palestinian question on what happens post this conflict," said Ansari when asked about Israel's stated objective to eliminate Hamas. "It is a Palestinian question on who represents the Palestinians in an official capacity and also the political groups and parties in the political sphere," he said. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said earlier Tuesday that negotiations for the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire, which Qatar helped broker, would begin this week. The second phase of the truce is meant to facilitate the release of all remaining hostages seized during Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack that sparked the war and lead to a permanent end to the fighting. Saar said Israel demanded the "complete demilitarisation of Gaza" and would "not accept the continued presence of Hamas or any other terrorist groups" in the territory, ruled by Hamas since 2007. US President Donald Trump has proposed a takeover of the Gaza Strip, under which its 2.4 million inhabitants would be moved to Egypt or Jordan. The plan has drawn widespread condemnation, with Arab states preparing a response. Trump's proposal has added strains to the fragile Gaza ceasefire, which has largely halted the violence since it took effect on January 19, after more than 15 months of war. The ongoing first phase of the truce, which is set to expire on March 1, has so far seen the release of 19 Israeli hostages in exchange for more than 1,100 Palestinians in Israeli custody. More hostage-prisoner exchanges are expected before the end of the first phase, which has also allowed humanitarian aid into besieged Gaza. Hamas, however, has accused Israel of blocking the entry of prefabricated structures and heavy machinery to clear rubble. Ansari, the Qatari spokesman, said that "the aid the enters the Gaza Strip today is insufficient". "Using humanitarian aid as a bargaining chip in negotiations is a crime in and of itself." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Palestinians must decide future of Gaza and Hamas, not Israel or US, says Qatar

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (Feb 17) that he was "committed" to US President Donald Trump's plan for Gaza.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Trump's plan involved displacing more than two million inhabitants of the Palestinian territory.</p>
<p>The Israeli prime minister said that he is committed to "a different Gaza".&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-cant-do-a-thing-tehran-slams-netanyahu-for-vowing-to-finish-the-job-against-iran-with-trumps-help-8729162">'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help</a></strong></p>
<p>"I am committed to US President Trump's plan for the creation of a different Gaza," Netanyahu said in a statement.</p>
<p>Earlier this month, Trump, in an interview excerpt released on Monday (Feb 10), said that Palestinians would not have the right to return to Gaza under his proposal for the United States to assume control of the region.</p>
<p>"No, they wouldn&rsquo;t, because they&rsquo;re going to have much better housing. In other words, I&rsquo;m talking about building a permanent place for them," Trump told Bret Baier of Fox News when asked if Palestinians would be allowed to return.</p>
<p>He further suggested that reconstruction efforts could be led by other nations in the region.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-thanks-us-president-trump-for-full-support-on-gaza-8725325">Israeli PM Netanyahu thanks US President Trump for 'full support' on Gaza</a></strong></p>
<p>The detailed plan involves the US taking control of Gaza, relocating its Palestinian population elsewhere, and transforming the region into the "Riviera of the Middle East."&nbsp;</p>
<p>He introduced the plan alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said that the idea was "worth listening carefully to."</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-hamas-militants-lead-3-israeli-hostages-on-stage-8723396">Gaza ceasefire: 3 Hamas hostages, dozens of Palestinian prisoners released in latest swap</a></strong></p>
<h2>'Neither Hamas nor Palestinian Authority will rule Gaza'</h2>
<p>Netanyahu stressed that, as promised the day after the war in Gaza, neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority will be there.&nbsp;</p>
<p>He added that he is "committed to [US] President [Donald] Trump&rsquo;s plan to create a different Gaza&rdquo; &mdash; referring to a plan to relocate the Strip&rsquo;s residents while the US takes ownership of the territory and rebuilds it into a &ldquo;Riviera of the Middle East.&rdquo;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-accept-american-and-israeli-threats-hamas-warns-trump-netanyahu-over-gaza-ceasefire-ultimatum-8715064">&lsquo;Won&rsquo;t accept American and Israeli threats&rsquo;: Hamas warns Trump, Netanyahu over Gaza ceasefire ultimatum</a></strong></p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World: Trump's detailed plan involves the US taking control of Gaza, relocating its Palestinian people elsewhere, and transforming region into the "Riviera of the Middle East."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (Feb 17) that he was "committed" to US President Donald Trump's plan for Gaza. Trump's plan involved displacing more than two million inhabitants of the Palestinian territory. The Israeli prime minister said that he is committed to "a different Gaza". Also read: 'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help "I am committed to US President Trump's plan for the creation of a different Gaza," Netanyahu said in a statement. Earlier this month, Trump, in an interview excerpt released on Monday (Feb 10), said that Palestinians would not have the right to return to Gaza under his proposal for the United States to assume control of the region. "No, they wouldn’t, because they’re going to have much better housing. In other words, I’m talking about building a permanent place for them," Trump told Bret Baier of Fox News when asked if Palestinians would be allowed to return. He further suggested that reconstruction efforts could be led by other nations in the region. Also read: Israeli PM Netanyahu thanks US President Trump for 'full support' on Gaza The detailed plan involves the US taking control of Gaza, relocating its Palestinian population elsewhere, and transforming the region into the "Riviera of the Middle East." He introduced the plan alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said that the idea was "worth listening carefully to." Also read: Gaza ceasefire: 3 Hamas hostages, dozens of Palestinian prisoners released in latest swap 'Neither Hamas nor Palestinian Authority will rule Gaza' Netanyahu stressed that, as promised the day after the war in Gaza, neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority will be there. He added that he is "committed to [US] President [Donald] Trump’s plan to create a different Gaza” — referring to a plan to relocate the Strip’s residents while the US takes ownership of the territory and rebuilds it into a “Riviera of the Middle East.” Also read: ‘Won’t accept American and Israeli threats’: Hamas warns Trump, Netanyahu over Gaza ceasefire ultimatum (With inputs from agencies)

'Committed' to Trump's plan for 'a different Gaza', says Israeli PM Netanyahu

As Washington plans on resettling Palestinians in Gaza in nearby Arab nations, Palestinians in the occupied West Bank are being forced to flee from their homes amid widespread Israeli operations.

UN says West Bank might face genocidal acts like Gaza

Hamas on Wednesday called for worldwide "solidarity marches" over the weekend to protest a US plan endorsed by Israel to displace Palestinians from the war-ravaged Gaza Strip. Watch this report for more details!

Hamas calls for 'solidarity marches' worldwide

Former real estate magnate described Gaza as a ‘demolition site’ that would be ‘fixed up’. Trump also proposed countries in Middle East to build sections of Gaza. President also claimed that displaced Palestinians would prefer not to return to Gaza. However, his proposal was once again met with backlash from Palestinian representatives. Watch to know more!

Donald Trump Reaffirms Committed To Us Ownership Of Gaza, 'Middle East Can Help Rebuild'

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu says US President Donald Trump’s idea to move Palestinians out of Gaza is "the first original idea to be raised in years." Watch this report for more details!

Netanyahu: Trump's Gaza plan first original idea to be raised in years

From one Palestinian enclave to another Palestinian territory, Israel's war has moved from Gaza to the occupied West Bank.

Why is Israel bombing West Bank?

Saudi Arabia reaffirms its support for Palestinians, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to their land. The statement highlights Saudi Arabia's stance on the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict and their solidarity with the Palestinian people.

Saudi Arabia: Palestinians will remain committed to their land

Donald Trump faces intense backlash after making controversial statements regarding Gaza, with critics accusing him of endorsing ethnic cleansing against Palestinians. His remarks have sparked a heated debate over the ongoing conflict.

Trump calls for 'ethnic cleansing' of Palestinians from Gaza, receives backlash | WION Originals

The Israeli military continues its ‘Iron Wall’ operation in the West Bank, targeting militant groups and aiming to counter-terrorism. Watch in for more details!

Israel continues 'iron wall' operation in West Bank

According to reports, The Palestinian Authority has reached an agreement with the Jenin Battalion that will end over a month-long standoff in the northern West Bank city and adjacent refugee camp confirmed a Palestinian official.

Palestinian Authority's deal with Jenin Battalion to end standoff in West Bank

Israel and Hamas reached a landmark ceasefire and hostage release deal to halt the 15-month Gaza war. The deal, structured in three phases, includes the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the release of hostages. Qatar and the United States announced the deal, saying that the ceasefire would take effect on Sunday. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas: Three phase ceasefire deal to end war in Gaza

<p>As the West Asia crisis escalates, a top Palestinian leader has stressed that the US President-elect Donald Trump would "destroy Iran", leading to the destruction of Hamas' influence.</p>
<p>Israel and Hamas have been in a constant war for more than a year now. The conflict began with the Hamas attack on southern Israel in October last year.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Hamas group has been rising against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Palestinian+Authority" rel="dofollow">Palestinian Authority</a> - supported by the Western governments including the US - which is run by the rival Fatah party.</p>
<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-claims-director-of-gazas-kamal-adwan-hospital-a-hamas-terrorist-detains-him-days-after-he-accused-tel-aviv-of-targeting-medical-facility-8574358" rel="dofollow">Israel detains director of Gaza's 'last hospital,' accuses him of being a 'Hamas terrorist'</a></strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;We are confronting Hamas&rsquo; ideology,&rdquo; Mohammad Hamdan, Secretary General of the PA&rsquo;s ruling Fatah party, told The New York Post.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Our problem is with Hamas&rsquo; link to regimes outside Palestine,&rdquo; Hamdan said, referring to Iran in particular.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Hamdan said he expects Trump's return to the US administration to lead to Hamas and Iran's&nbsp; defeats.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;We see that Trump and the ruling government in Israel are planning to destroy Iran, so Hamas [followers] will have no other choice than to become Palestinian,&rdquo; the leader said.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Notably, the Palestinian Authority has killed at least three extremist militants in Jenin since the December 6 incident.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-week-old-baby-girl-freezes-to-death-in-gaza-while-israel-and-hamas-trade-blames-of-ceasefire-delay-8568285" rel="dofollow">Three-week old baby girl freezes to death in Gaza while Israel and Hamas trade blame for ceasefire delay</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=hamas" rel="dofollow">Hamas </a>took control of the Gaza Strip after defeating Fatah in the 2006 election. The group had a rule, which included an Islamist crackdown in the Palestinian territory and repeated incursions into Israel.&nbsp;</p>
<p>However, it came to an end with the October 7 attack on Israel.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Further, Hamdan said, &ldquo;Hamas rejects international legitimacy, meaning UN resolutions," adding, &ldquo;The world cannot accept a situation where a party does not accept international resolutions.&rdquo;</p>
<p>Hamdan also said PA President Mahmoud Abbas &ldquo;still supports realistic relations with the Americans in order to achieve the aspirations of the Palestinians.&rdquo;</p>
<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.</em></strong></p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World: The Hamas group has been rising up against the Palestinian Authority, which is run by the rival Fatah party, The New York Post reported. 

As the West Asia crisis escalates, a top Palestinian leader has stressed that the US President-elect Donald Trump would "destroy Iran", leading to the destruction of Hamas' influence. Israel and Hamas have been in a constant war for more than a year now. The conflict began with the Hamas attack on southern Israel in October last year. The Hamas group has been rising against the Palestinian Authority - supported by the Western governments including the US - which is run by the rival Fatah party. Also read: Israel detains director of Gaza's 'last hospital,' accuses him of being a 'Hamas terrorist' “We are confronting Hamas’ ideology,” Mohammad Hamdan, Secretary General of the PA’s ruling Fatah party, told The New York Post. “Our problem is with Hamas’ link to regimes outside Palestine,” Hamdan said, referring to Iran in particular. Hamdan said he expects Trump's return to the US administration to lead to Hamas and Iran's defeats. “We see that Trump and the ruling government in Israel are planning to destroy Iran, so Hamas [followers] will have no other choice than to become Palestinian,” the leader said. Notably, the Palestinian Authority has killed at least three extremist militants in Jenin since the December 6 incident. Also read: Three-week old baby girl freezes to death in Gaza while Israel and Hamas trade blame for ceasefire delay Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip after defeating Fatah in the 2006 election. The group had a rule, which included an Islamist crackdown in the Palestinian territory and repeated incursions into Israel. However, it came to an end with the October 7 attack on Israel. Further, Hamdan said, “Hamas rejects international legitimacy, meaning UN resolutions," adding, “The world cannot accept a situation where a party does not accept international resolutions.” Hamdan also said PA President Mahmoud Abbas “still supports realistic relations with the Americans in order to achieve the aspirations of the Palestinians.” Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian leader predicts Trump will 'destroy' Iran

<p>Even as the global community continues to&nbsp;raise alarm over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, an Oxfam report on Sunday (Dec 22) revealed that in the last two-and-a-half months, since October, only 12 trucks distributed aid amid Israel blockades.</p>

<h2><strong>Systematic 'cruelty'?</strong></h2>

<p>Raising alarm over the worsening situation, the aid group said,&nbsp;"Of the meagre 34 trucks of food and water given permission to enter the North Gaza Governorate over the last 2.5 months, deliberate delays and systematic obstructions by the Israeli military meant that just 12 managed to distribute aid to starving Palestinian civilians."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/absurd-irans-supreme-leader-khamenei-denies-using-proxies-in-west-asia-785976">Iran's Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations, says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently</a></strong></p>

<p>This count, as per AFP, includes those made through Saturday (Dec 21).</p>

<p>Just a day after Israel slammed Pope Francis for referring to the bombing of children in Gaza as an act of "cruelty," Oxfam reported instances where shelters were destroyed. The aid organisation said that even when deliveries were completed, some were disrupted by subsequent shelling of shelter locations within hours.</p>

<p>"For three of these, once the food and water had been delivered to the school where people were sheltering, it was then cleared and shelled within hours," it alleged.</p>

<p>The aid organisation pointed out that delays and restrictions have left thousands of Palestinians without adequate supplies, deepening the ongoing crisis in the besieged region. Oxfam claimed that&nbsp;it and other international aid groups have been "continually prevented from delivering life-saving aid" in northern Gaza since October 6 this year, when Israel intensified its bombardment of the territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-strikes-hamas-command-center-in-former-gaza-school-as-israel-negotiates-hostage-release-786003">Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>"Thousands of people are estimated to still be cut off, but with humanitarian access blocked it's impossible to know exact numbers," adding that&nbsp;"At the beginning of December, humanitarian organisations operating in Gaza were receiving calls from vulnerable people trapped in homes and shelters that had completely run out of food and water."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Oxfam revelations come days after Human Rights Watch recently alleged that Israeli authorities have deliberately restricted water access in Gaza, with devastating consequences. On Thursday (Dec 19) in a report focused on water, the New York-based organization said deliberate efforts by Israeli authorities "of a systematic nature" to deprive Gazans of water, which had "likely caused thousands of deaths... and will likely continue to cause deaths."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Even as the global community continues to raise alarm over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, an Oxfam report on Sunday (Dec 22) revealed that in the last two-and-a-half months, since October, only 12 trucks distributed aid amid Israel blockades.

Even as the global community continues to raise alarm over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, an Oxfam report on Sunday (Dec 22) revealed that in the last two-and-a-half months, since October, only 12 trucks distributed aid amid Israel blockades. Systematic 'cruelty'? Raising alarm over the worsening situation, the aid group said, "Of the meagre 34 trucks of food and water given permission to enter the North Gaza Governorate over the last 2.5 months, deliberate delays and systematic obstructions by the Israeli military meant that just 12 managed to distribute aid to starving Palestinian civilians." Also read | Iran's Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations, says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently This count, as per AFP, includes those made through Saturday (Dec 21). Just a day after Israel slammed Pope Francis for referring to the bombing of children in Gaza as an act of "cruelty," Oxfam reported instances where shelters were destroyed. The aid organisation said that even when deliveries were completed, some were disrupted by subsequent shelling of shelter locations within hours. "For three of these, once the food and water had been delivered to the school where people were sheltering, it was then cleared and shelled within hours," it alleged. The aid organisation pointed out that delays and restrictions have left thousands of Palestinians without adequate supplies, deepening the ongoing crisis in the besieged region. Oxfam claimed that it and other international aid groups have been "continually prevented from delivering life-saving aid" in northern Gaza since October 6 this year, when Israel intensified its bombardment of the territory. Also read | Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report "Thousands of people are estimated to still be cut off, but with humanitarian access blocked it's impossible to know exact numbers," adding that "At the beginning of December, humanitarian organisations operating in Gaza were receiving calls from vulnerable people trapped in homes and shelters that had completely run out of food and water." The Oxfam revelations come days after Human Rights Watch recently alleged that Israeli authorities have deliberately restricted water access in Gaza, with devastating consequences. On Thursday (Dec 19) in a report focused on water, the New York-based organization said deliberate efforts by Israeli authorities "of a systematic nature" to deprive Gazans of water, which had "likely caused thousands of deaths... and will likely continue to cause deaths." (With inputs from agencies)

Only 12 aid trucks reached starving civilians in northern Gaza since October, reveals Oxfam

<p><span class="region">United Nations, United States</span>
<p>Even as the global community continues to raise alarm over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, an Oxfam report on Sunday (Dec 22) revealed that in the last two-and-a-half months, since October, only 12 trucks distributed aid amid Israel blockades.</p></p>
<h2><strong>Systematic 'cruelty'?</strong></h2>
<p>Raising alarm over the worsening situation, the aid group said, "Of the meagre 34 trucks of food and water given permission to enter the North Gaza Governorate over the last 2.5 months, deliberate delays and systematic obstructions by the Israeli military meant that just 12 managed to distribute aid to starving Palestinian civilians."</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/absurd-irans-supreme-leader-khamenei-denies-using-proxies-in-west-asia-785976">Iran's Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations, says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently</a></strong></p>
<p>This count, as per AFP, includes those made through Saturday (Dec 21).</p>
<p>Just a day after Israel slammed Pope Francis for referring to the bombing of children in Gaza as an act of "cruelty," Oxfam reported instances where shelters were destroyed. The aid organisation said that even when deliveries were completed, some were disrupted by subsequent shelling of shelter locations within hours.</p>
<p>"For three of these, once the food and water had been delivered to the school where people were sheltering, it was then cleared and shelled within hours," it alleged.</p>
<p>The aid organisation pointed out that delays and restrictions have left thousands of Palestinians without adequate supplies, deepening the ongoing crisis in the besieged region. Oxfam claimed that it and other international aid groups have been "continually prevented from delivering life-saving aid" in northern Gaza since October 6 this year, when Israel intensified its bombardment of the territory. </p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-strikes-hamas-command-center-in-former-gaza-school-as-israel-negotiates-hostage-release-786003">Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report</a></strong></p>
<p>"Thousands of people are estimated to still be cut off, but with humanitarian access blocked it's impossible to know exact numbers," adding that "At the beginning of December, humanitarian organisations operating in Gaza were receiving calls from vulnerable people trapped in homes and shelters that had completely run out of food and water." </p>
<p>The Oxfam revelations come days after Human Rights Watch recently alleged that Israeli authorities have deliberately restricted water access in Gaza, with devastating consequences. On Thursday (Dec 19) in a report focused on water, the New York-based organization said deliberate efforts by Israeli authorities "of a systematic nature" to deprive Gazans of water, which had "likely caused thousands of deaths... and will likely continue to cause deaths."</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Raising alarm over the worsening situation, the aid group said, "Of the meagre 34 trucks of food and water given permission to enter the North Gaza Governorate over the last 2.5 months, deliberate delays and systematic obstructions by the Israeli military meant that just 12 managed to distribute aid to starving Palestinian civilians"



United Nations, United States Even as the global community continues to raise alarm over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, an Oxfam report on Sunday (Dec 22) revealed that in the last two-and-a-half months, since October, only 12 trucks distributed aid amid Israel blockades. Systematic 'cruelty'? Raising alarm over the worsening situation, the aid group said, "Of the meagre 34 trucks of food and water given permission to enter the North Gaza Governorate over the last 2.5 months, deliberate delays and systematic obstructions by the Israeli military meant that just 12 managed to distribute aid to starving Palestinian civilians." Also read | Iran's Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations, says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently This count, as per AFP, includes those made through Saturday (Dec 21). Just a day after Israel slammed Pope Francis for referring to the bombing of children in Gaza as an act of "cruelty," Oxfam reported instances where shelters were destroyed. The aid organisation said that even when deliveries were completed, some were disrupted by subsequent shelling of shelter locations within hours. "For three of these, once the food and water had been delivered to the school where people were sheltering, it was then cleared and shelled within hours," it alleged. The aid organisation pointed out that delays and restrictions have left thousands of Palestinians without adequate supplies, deepening the ongoing crisis in the besieged region. Oxfam claimed that it and other international aid groups have been "continually prevented from delivering life-saving aid" in northern Gaza since October 6 this year, when Israel intensified its bombardment of the territory. Also read | Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report "Thousands of people are estimated to still be cut off, but with humanitarian access blocked it's impossible to know exact numbers," adding that "At the beginning of December, humanitarian organisations operating in Gaza were receiving calls from vulnerable people trapped in homes and shelters that had completely run out of food and water." The Oxfam revelations come days after Human Rights Watch recently alleged that Israeli authorities have deliberately restricted water access in Gaza, with devastating consequences. On Thursday (Dec 19) in a report focused on water, the New York-based organization said deliberate efforts by Israeli authorities "of a systematic nature" to deprive Gazans of water, which had "likely caused thousands of deaths... and will likely continue to cause deaths." (With inputs from agencies)

<p>Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out.</p>

<p>The pope's remarks came just a day after reports from Gaza's civil defence agency claimed an Israeli airstrike killed seven children from a single family.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at the Vatican, he lamented, "Yesterday, children were bombed. This is cruelty, this is not war." He also slammed&nbsp;Israel's alleged refusal to allow the Patriarch of Jerusalem into Gaza "as promised".</p>

<h2><strong>Israel responds sharply</strong></h2>

<p>Israel's foreign ministry in a statement said that the Pope's comments were "particularly disappointing", and claimed, they were "disconnected" from the broader context of its fight against "jihadist terrorism — a multi-front war that was forced upon it starting on October 7."</p>

<p>"Enough with the double standards and the singling out of the Jewish state and its people," the statement read, arguing that the true cruelty lies in Hamas, using children as shields and holding hostages, including infants, for over 400 days.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-destroys-75-km-of-hamas-tunnels-denies-reports-of-civilian-killings-in-gazas-netzarim-corridor-785636">IDF destroys 7.5 km of Hamas tunnels, denies reports of civilian killings in Gaza's Netzarim Corridor</a></strong></p>

<p>"Cruelty is terrorists hiding behind children while trying to murder Israeli children; cruelty is holding 100 hostages for 442 days, including a baby and children, by terrorists and abusing them," the Israeli statement said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This refers to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack that left 1,208 Israelis dead and 251 hostages taken, sparking the current war in Gaza. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Civilians caught in crossfire</strong></h2>

<p>Gaza's civil defence agency reported that Friday's airstrike killed 10 family members, including seven children, in the northern region of the territory. The Israeli military countered, saying it had "several terrorists who were operating in a military structure belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation and posed a threat to IDF troops operating in the area".</p>

<p>It also questioned the reported casualty figures and said: "According to an initial examination, the reported number of casualties resulting from the strike does not align with the information held by the IDF."</p>

<p>The war, raging for over 14 months, has claimed at least 45,206 lives in Gaza, primarily civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The United Nations has deemed these figures credible.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-launches-retaliatory-strike-on-houthi-targets-in-yemen-after-attack-on-israels-tel-aviv-785886">US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>The Pope's tough&nbsp;stance</strong></h2>

<p>Pope Francis, 88, has consistently called for peace but has recently taken a firmer stance. In November, he slammed Israel for its "invader's arrogance" in Palestine,&nbsp;breaking from the Holy See’s tradition of neutrality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a new book, the pope even suggested examining whether the Gaza situation meets the definition of genocide, a claim firmly dismissed by Israel. The Vatican officially recognised the State of Palestine in 2013 and supports a two-state solution. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out.

Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out. The pope's remarks came just a day after reports from Gaza's civil defence agency claimed an Israeli airstrike killed seven children from a single family. Speaking at the Vatican, he lamented, "Yesterday, children were bombed. This is cruelty, this is not war." He also slammed Israel's alleged refusal to allow the Patriarch of Jerusalem into Gaza "as promised". Israel responds sharply Israel's foreign ministry in a statement said that the Pope's comments were "particularly disappointing", and claimed, they were "disconnected" from the broader context of its fight against "jihadist terrorism — a multi-front war that was forced upon it starting on October 7." "Enough with the double standards and the singling out of the Jewish state and its people," the statement read, arguing that the true cruelty lies in Hamas, using children as shields and holding hostages, including infants, for over 400 days. Also read | IDF destroys 7.5 km of Hamas tunnels, denies reports of civilian killings in Gaza's Netzarim Corridor "Cruelty is terrorists hiding behind children while trying to murder Israeli children; cruelty is holding 100 hostages for 442 days, including a baby and children, by terrorists and abusing them," the Israeli statement said. This refers to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack that left 1,208 Israelis dead and 251 hostages taken, sparking the current war in Gaza. Civilians caught in crossfire Gaza's civil defence agency reported that Friday's airstrike killed 10 family members, including seven children, in the northern region of the territory. The Israeli military countered, saying it had "several terrorists who were operating in a military structure belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation and posed a threat to IDF troops operating in the area". It also questioned the reported casualty figures and said: "According to an initial examination, the reported number of casualties resulting from the strike does not align with the information held by the IDF." The war, raging for over 14 months, has claimed at least 45,206 lives in Gaza, primarily civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The United Nations has deemed these figures credible. Also read | US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv The Pope's tough stance Pope Francis, 88, has consistently called for peace but has recently taken a firmer stance. In November, he slammed Israel for its "invader's arrogance" in Palestine, breaking from the Holy See’s tradition of neutrality. In a new book, the pope even suggested examining whether the Gaza situation meets the definition of genocide, a claim firmly dismissed by Israel. The Vatican officially recognised the State of Palestine in 2013 and supports a two-state solution. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel slams Pope Francis for 'double standards' after pontiff condemns Gaza bombings as 'cruelty'

<p><span class="region">Vatican City, Holy See</span>
<p>Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out.</p></p>
<p>The pope's remarks came just a day after reports from Gaza's civil defence agency claimed an Israeli airstrike killed seven children from a single family. </p>
<p>Speaking at the Vatican, he lamented, "Yesterday, children were bombed. This is cruelty, this is not war." He also slammed Israel's alleged refusal to allow the Patriarch of Jerusalem into Gaza "as promised".</p>
<h2><strong>Israel responds sharply</strong></h2>
<p>Israel's foreign ministry in a statement said that the Pope's comments were "particularly disappointing", and claimed, they were "disconnected" from the broader context of its fight against "jihadist terrorism — a multi-front war that was forced upon it starting on October 7."</p>
<p>"Enough with the double standards and the singling out of the Jewish state and its people," the statement read, arguing that the true cruelty lies in Hamas, using children as shields and holding hostages, including infants, for over 400 days. </p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-destroys-75-km-of-hamas-tunnels-denies-reports-of-civilian-killings-in-gazas-netzarim-corridor-785636">IDF destroys 7.5 km of Hamas tunnels, denies reports of civilian killings in Gaza's Netzarim Corridor</a></strong></p>
<p>"Cruelty is terrorists hiding behind children while trying to murder Israeli children; cruelty is holding 100 hostages for 442 days, including a baby and children, by terrorists and abusing them," the Israeli statement said. </p>
<p>This refers to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack that left 1,208 Israelis dead and 251 hostages taken, sparking the current war in Gaza.  </p>
<h2><strong>Civilians caught in crossfire</strong></h2>
<p>Gaza's civil defence agency reported that Friday's airstrike killed 10 family members, including seven children, in the northern region of the territory. The Israeli military countered, saying it had "several terrorists who were operating in a military structure belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation and posed a threat to IDF troops operating in the area".</p>
<p>It also questioned the reported casualty figures and said: "According to an initial examination, the reported number of casualties resulting from the strike does not align with the information held by the IDF."</p>
<p>The war, raging for over 14 months, has claimed at least 45,206 lives in Gaza, primarily civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The United Nations has deemed these figures credible.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-launches-retaliatory-strike-on-houthi-targets-in-yemen-after-attack-on-israels-tel-aviv-785886">US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>The Pope's tough stance</strong></h2>
<p>Pope Francis, 88, has consistently called for peace but has recently taken a firmer stance. In November, he slammed Israel for its "invader's arrogance" in Palestine, breaking from the Holy See’s tradition of neutrality. </p>
<p>In a new book, the pope even suggested examining whether the Gaza situation meets the definition of genocide, a claim firmly dismissed by Israel. The Vatican officially recognised the State of Palestine in 2013 and supports a two-state solution.  </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Speaking at the Vatican, Pope Francis lamented, "Yesterday, children were bombed. This is cruelty, this is not war"



Vatican City, Holy See Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out. The pope's remarks came just a day after reports from Gaza's civil defence agency claimed an Israeli airstrike killed seven children from a single family. Speaking at the Vatican, he lamented, "Yesterday, children were bombed. This is cruelty, this is not war." He also slammed Israel's alleged refusal to allow the Patriarch of Jerusalem into Gaza "as promised". Israel responds sharply Israel's foreign ministry in a statement said that the Pope's comments were "particularly disappointing", and claimed, they were "disconnected" from the broader context of its fight against "jihadist terrorism — a multi-front war that was forced upon it starting on October 7." "Enough with the double standards and the singling out of the Jewish state and its people," the statement read, arguing that the true cruelty lies in Hamas, using children as shields and holding hostages, including infants, for over 400 days. Also read | IDF destroys 7.5 km of Hamas tunnels, denies reports of civilian killings in Gaza's Netzarim Corridor "Cruelty is terrorists hiding behind children while trying to murder Israeli children; cruelty is holding 100 hostages for 442 days, including a baby and children, by terrorists and abusing them," the Israeli statement said. This refers to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack that left 1,208 Israelis dead and 251 hostages taken, sparking the current war in Gaza. Civilians caught in crossfire Gaza's civil defence agency reported that Friday's airstrike killed 10 family members, including seven children, in the northern region of the territory. The Israeli military countered, saying it had "several terrorists who were operating in a military structure belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation and posed a threat to IDF troops operating in the area". It also questioned the reported casualty figures and said: "According to an initial examination, the reported number of casualties resulting from the strike does not align with the information held by the IDF." The war, raging for over 14 months, has claimed at least 45,206 lives in Gaza, primarily civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The United Nations has deemed these figures credible. Also read | US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv The Pope's tough stance Pope Francis, 88, has consistently called for peace but has recently taken a firmer stance. In November, he slammed Israel for its "invader's arrogance" in Palestine, breaking from the Holy See’s tradition of neutrality. In a new book, the pope even suggested examining whether the Gaza situation meets the definition of genocide, a claim firmly dismissed by Israel. The Vatican officially recognised the State of Palestine in 2013 and supports a two-state solution. (With inputs from agencies)

Six Palestinians were killed by Israeli army fire on Thursday in the occupied West Bank. Watch this report for more details!

IDF Killed 6 Palestinians In Occupied West Bank

<p>Congress&nbsp;MP&nbsp;Priyanka Gandhi&nbsp;Vadra landed at the centre of a controversy when she carried a bag emblazoned "Palestine" on it inside the Parliament to express her support for Palestinians on Monday (Dec 16).</p>

<p>Congress general secretary has been known to raise her voice against the actions of Israel in Gaza and show her solidarity with Palestinians.</p>

<p>Gandhi carried a handbag that&nbsp;had the word "Palestine" and Palestinian emblems like a watermelon emblazoned on it. The watermelon is seen as a symbol of Palestinian solidarity.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-publishes-video-of-israeli-american-hostage-pleading-for-trumps-help-in-securing-release-780558">Hamas publishes video of Israeli-American hostage pleading for Trump's help in securing release</a></p>

<p>The image of Gandhi with the bag was shared on social media platform X by the Indian National Congress spokesperson, Dr Shama Mohamed.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Smt. <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@priyankagandhi</a> Ji shows her solidarity with Palestine by carrying a special bag symbolizing her support.<br />
<br />
A gesture of compassion, commitment to justice and humanity! She is clear that nobody can violate the Geneva convention <a href="https://t.co/2i1XtQRd2T">pic.twitter.com/2i1XtQRd2T</a></p>
— Dr. Shama Mohamed (@drshamamohd) <a href="https://twitter.com/drshamamohd/status/1868542372193411381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the caption of the post, Mohamed wrote, "Smt. @priyankagandhi Ji shows her solidarity with Palestine by carrying a special bag symbolizing her support. A gesture of compassion, commitment to justice and humanity! She is clear that nobody can violate the Geneva Convention."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BIG BREAKING 🚨<br />
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Priyanka Gandhi carrying a ‘Palestine’ bag arrived at the Parliament.<br />
<br />
PVG is a fearless leader 🔥🔥🔥 <a href="https://t.co/mhTE43EfVA">pic.twitter.com/mhTE43EfVA</a></p>
— Rohini Anand (@mrs_roh08) <a href="https://twitter.com/mrs_roh08/status/1868548139067830417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Priyankas's strong stance on Israel-Gaza war</strong></h2>

<p>Priyanka<strong>&nbsp;</strong>had criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in June over what she said were "genocidal actions" of the Israeli government in Gaza and accused Netanyahu's government of "barbarism".</p>

<p>The comments were made by the Congress general secretary after the ongoing Israel-Gaza war was defended by Netanyahu in a speech to the US Congress.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Gaza War: How Close Is A Gaza Ceasefire Deal?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-how-close-is-a-gaza-ceasefire-deal-784207/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>She had stated it was not enough for people to raise their voices for civilians, mothers, fathers, doctors, nurses, aid workers, journalists, teachers, writers, poets, senior citizens, and innocent children who were dying in the "horrific genocide" happening in Gaza.</p>

<p>"It is the moral responsibility of every right-thinking individual, including all those Israeli citizens who do not believe in hatred and violence, and every government in the world to condemn the Israeli government's genocidal actions and force them to stop," Gandhi said in a post on X.</p>

<p>She added that Israel's actions are "unacceptable" in a world that "professes civility and morality".</p>

<p><img alt="Gandhi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="11676635-d635-4839-87c6-5125a5f442c8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202024-12-17%20at%208.06.35%20AM.jpeg" /></p>

<p>Gandhi had last week met Palestine's chargé d'affaires Abed Elrazeg Abu Jazer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></p>


Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra landed at the centre of a controversy when she carried a bag emblazoned "Palestine" on it inside the Parliament to express her support for Palestinians on Monday (Dec 16).

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra landed at the centre of a controversy when she carried a bag emblazoned "Palestine" on it inside the Parliament to express her support for Palestinians on Monday (Dec 16). Congress general secretary has been known to raise her voice against the actions of Israel in Gaza and show her solidarity with Palestinians. Gandhi carried a handbag that had the word "Palestine" and Palestinian emblems like a watermelon emblazoned on it. The watermelon is seen as a symbol of Palestinian solidarity. Also Read: Hamas publishes video of Israeli-American hostage pleading for Trump's help in securing release The image of Gandhi with the bag was shared on social media platform X by the Indian National Congress spokesperson, Dr Shama Mohamed. Smt. @priyankagandhi Ji shows her solidarity with Palestine by carrying a special bag symbolizing her support. A gesture of compassion, commitment to justice and humanity! She is clear that nobody can violate the Geneva convention pic.twitter.com/2i1XtQRd2T — Dr. Shama Mohamed (@drshamamohd) December 16, 2024 × In the caption of the post, Mohamed wrote, "Smt. @priyankagandhi Ji shows her solidarity with Palestine by carrying a special bag symbolizing her support. A gesture of compassion, commitment to justice and humanity! She is clear that nobody can violate the Geneva Convention." BIG BREAKING 🚨 Priyanka Gandhi carrying a ‘Palestine’ bag arrived at the Parliament. PVG is a fearless leader 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/mhTE43EfVA — Rohini Anand (@mrs_roh08) December 16, 2024 × Priyankas's strong stance on Israel-Gaza war Priyanka had criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in June over what she said were "genocidal actions" of the Israeli government in Gaza and accused Netanyahu's government of "barbarism". The comments were made by the Congress general secretary after the ongoing Israel-Gaza war was defended by Netanyahu in a speech to the US Congress. Watch: Israel-Gaza War: How Close Is A Gaza Ceasefire Deal? She had stated it was not enough for people to raise their voices for civilians, mothers, fathers, doctors, nurses, aid workers, journalists, teachers, writers, poets, senior citizens, and innocent children who were dying in the "horrific genocide" happening in Gaza. "It is the moral responsibility of every right-thinking individual, including all those Israeli citizens who do not believe in hatred and violence, and every government in the world to condemn the Israeli government's genocidal actions and force them to stop," Gandhi said in a post on X. She added that Israel's actions are "unacceptable" in a world that "professes civility and morality". Gandhi had last week met Palestine's chargé d'affaires Abed Elrazeg Abu Jazer. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Priyanka Gandhi carries 'Palestine' emblazoned bag in Parliament, stirs controversy

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<p>After more than a year into the Israel-Hamas war, the Palestinian militant group has agreed to the Israeli demand to let the Israel Defence Force (IDF) remain in Gaza temporarily under a likely ceasefire deal, The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday (Dec 12).</p>

<p>Hamas has been maintaing that it won't accept the ceasefire deal unless it has a promise to end the war and a complete withdrawal of IDF troops from the Gaza Strip. But the report said that not only Hamas has agreed to let IDF troops in the strip, but it has also given mediators a list of hostages it would release in the first phase of the ceasefire.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Syrian Minorities Alawites &amp; Christians Fear Repression &amp; Revenge</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/syrian-minorities-alawites-christians-fear-repression-revenge-gravitas-783585/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The list consists of US nationals, women, older hostages and those with medical conditions, the mediators told the news agency. It also has the names of five hostages who have been confirmed to be dead.</p>

<h2>Updated deal</h2>

<p>In the first week of December, Israel shared an updated proposal for a hostage deal with Hamas, according to an Axios report, citing two Israeli officials.</p>

<p>The updated proposal is similar to the phased plan under discussion in August, however, it is now focused primarily on getting the first phase done, as per the report.</p>

<p>In the updated proposal, Israel is now open to the option of a ceasefire that would last up to 60 days, whereas, earlier, the first stage was only 42 days.</p>

<p>According to the Axios report, all living female hostages, all living men over 50, and people with serious medical conditions, would be released.</p>

<p>Israel has also reportedly asked for 33 living hostages from these groups, but, believes that there are not that many alive anymore.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-calls-for-defence-surge-to-avoid-big-war-with-russia-783571">NATO chief calls for defence surge to avoid 'big war' with Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>Hamas has also shown a new openness to a partial deal, the Israeli officials said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Israel is still willing to release hundreds of Palestinian security prisoners, including some serving life sentences for deadly terror attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, several other senior ministers and security chiefs approved the proposal on Sunday, the report stated. Following this, the proposal was passed to Egypt, which has been involved in the mediation efforts amid the ongoing war, and then presented to Hamas in Cairo on Monday and Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


After more than a year into the Israel-Hamas war, the Palestinian militant group has agreed to the Israeli demand to let the Israel Defence Force (IDF) remain in Gaza temporarily under a likely ceasefire deal, The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday (Dec 12).

After more than a year into the Israel-Hamas war, the Palestinian militant group has agreed to the Israeli demand to let the Israel Defence Force (IDF) remain in Gaza temporarily under a likely ceasefire deal, The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday (Dec 12). Hamas has been maintaing that it won't accept the ceasefire deal unless it has a promise to end the war and a complete withdrawal of IDF troops from the Gaza Strip. But the report said that not only Hamas has agreed to let IDF troops in the strip, but it has also given mediators a list of hostages it would release in the first phase of the ceasefire. Watch | Syrian Minorities Alawites & Christians Fear Repression & Revenge The list consists of US nationals, women, older hostages and those with medical conditions, the mediators told the news agency. It also has the names of five hostages who have been confirmed to be dead. Updated deal In the first week of December, Israel shared an updated proposal for a hostage deal with Hamas, according to an Axios report, citing two Israeli officials. The updated proposal is similar to the phased plan under discussion in August, however, it is now focused primarily on getting the first phase done, as per the report. In the updated proposal, Israel is now open to the option of a ceasefire that would last up to 60 days, whereas, earlier, the first stage was only 42 days. According to the Axios report, all living female hostages, all living men over 50, and people with serious medical conditions, would be released. Israel has also reportedly asked for 33 living hostages from these groups, but, believes that there are not that many alive anymore. Also read | NATO chief calls for defence surge to avoid 'big war' with Russia Hamas has also shown a new openness to a partial deal, the Israeli officials said. Meanwhile, Israel is still willing to release hundreds of Palestinian security prisoners, including some serving life sentences for deadly terror attacks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, several other senior ministers and security chiefs approved the proposal on Sunday, the report stated. Following this, the proposal was passed to Egypt, which has been involved in the mediation efforts amid the ongoing war, and then presented to Hamas in Cairo on Monday and Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas said yes to temporary IDF presence in Gaza in potential hostage deal: Report

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