Many relatives of hostages taken by Hamas are pleading with the government to scale back the war effort and instead negotiate the release of their loved ones as Israel gets ready to attack the Gaza Strip.

Israel-Palestine war: Iran-backed militia's fighters continue to attack North Israel

Israel is offering cash, safety to Gazans in exchange of information on the hostages. IDF has dropped leaflets into Gaza asking residents to contact the Israeli military through secured channels. Priyanka Sharma brings you the latest.

Gravitas: Israel-Palestine war | Israel asks Gazans to leak information on Hamas hostages

US accuses Iran of ‘actively facilitating’ attacks on bases in West Asia. Washington says it will not allow threats to its interests to ‘go unchallenged’ after increase in attacks on its forces in the region. But with current attacks, would a US President really be willing to become embroiled in another war, especially in an election year?

Gravitas: US vows to hold Iran responsible for attacks on troops in West Asia

Former US President Barack Obama stated on Monday that some of Israel's measures in its war against Hamas, such as denying food and water to Gaza, could "harden Palestinian attitudes for generations" and reduce international support for Israel. Obama stated in an uncommon statement on a current foreign policy problem that any Israeli military plan that disregards the human cost of the conflict "could ultimately backfire."

Israel-Palestine war: Some Israeli actions in Gaza can weaken international support: Barack Obama

On Tuesday, French President Emmanuel Macron traveled to Tel Aviv to declare his nation's 'full solidarity' with Israel. Following that incident, Macron was scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to convey France's "complete solidarity" with Israel, according to the French presidency.

Israel-Palestine war: Macron meets PM Netanyahu Isaac Herzog

The Israeli Central Bank has lowered its economic forecasts and maintained its focus on propping up the domestic currency, the shekel, by holding interest rates steady. The research division of the bank of Israel revised its gdp growth forecasts for 2023 and 2024 downward on Monday.

Bank of Israel revises economic forecast downward amid conflict

Amid the Gaza War, Israel has called its reserves to defend their homeland. But there's a mounting question: Where is Prime Minister's son? In the midst of this mobilization, Israeli soldiers are seething with anger. The Prime Minister's 32-year-old son remains absent even as countless soldiers rush back home to fight the war. But why is Yair Netanyahu still in the U.S., far from the frontlines? Here's a report.

Gravitas: Israeli PM's Son Absence Amid Gaza War Mobilization Sparks Outrage

Israeli government spokesman Eylon Levy stated that his nation's goal is to "totally destroy the military and governing capabilities" of Hamas and that military action within the Gaza Strip will occur "at the time of our choosing." The world and the west Asian nation were stunned by the terror attack carried out by Hamas on October 7, in which over 200 Israelis were taken captive and 1400 Israelis died. "We are going to destroy Hamas, we are going to enter the Gaza Strip and totally demolish its military terrorist and governing structure inside the Gaza Strip," Levy declared in an interview with our diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal.

'Will completely destroy Hamas', Israeli govt spokesperson Eylon Levy in a conversation with WION

Israel-Palestine war: France President Macron says, 'Terrorism a common enemy for Israel & France'

Hamas militants killed at least 1,400 people recently - in which most of them were civilians who were shot or burnt to death on the first day of the raid. The militants also took over 200 people hostages.

Israel-Palestine war: Rage spreads among dueling narratives

Israeli aircraft struck a compound beneath a mosque in the occupied West Bank early on Sunday that the military said was being used by militants to organise attacks, and Palestinian medics said at least one person was killed.

Israel-Palestine War: Preparing for unrelenting attacks to dismantle Hamas: Israel military

Two Israeli hostages, Yocheved Lifshitz, 85, and Nurit Cooper, 79, were freed by Hamas. According to Hamas' armed branch, the ladies were freed for "compelling humanitarian" grounds. The two hostages' liberation was confirmed by the ICRC.

Israel-Hamas: Four hostages released by Hamas so far; Can Israel manage to release hostages?

The United States on Monday (Oct 23) accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. This comes after Iran-backed militias in Iraq claimed responsibility for multiple attacks on US bases in the two countries.&nbsp;

President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for additional similar attacks and respond appropriately, said White House spokesman John Kirby. He also said that the US has sent a “few” military advisors to Israel.

<h2>Attacks on US military bases</h2>

Kirby said there had been an uptick in such attacks over the last week, particularly over the last few days and that the US would not&nbsp;allow its interests in the region to “go unchallenged.”&nbsp;

Washington also raised concerns about an escalation of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. However, the US has rejected calls for a ceasefire saying its ally Israel has a right to self-defence.&nbsp;

“Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said Kirby.&nbsp;

He added, “We know Iran’s goal is to maintain some level of deniability here, but we’re not going to allow them to do that.” This comes as there has been an increase in attacks on US forces in the region, particularly since Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, at least five rocket and drone attacks targeted three Iraqi military bases where&nbsp;American troops are stationed as part of the international coalition set up to fight the Islamic State group.

On Monday (Oct 23), Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iranian-backed militias, said that its forces used two drones to attack US military bases in Deir el-Zour province and in al-Shaddadi further north.&nbsp;

This was after the group also said that it attacked the al-Tanf garrison near the Jordanian and Iraqi borders which is near the desert Rukban camp home to tens of thousands of Syrians.

“We are deeply concerned about the potential for any significant escalation of these attacks in the days ahead,” said the White House spokesperson.&nbsp;

<h2>US sends ‘few’ military advisors to Israel</h2>

Kirby said that the US has also sent a “few” military advisors to Israel, adding that these officers have experience in “the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting, and may conduct in the future” and were “over there to share some perspectives.”&nbsp;

A report by the Associated Press said that the Pentagon has sent military advisers to Israel to help with war planning ahead of their potential ground operation in Gaza.&nbsp;

Among those is Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who has previously helped lead special operations forces against the Islamic State and served in Fallujah, Iraq, during some of the most heated urban combat there, a US official told AP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The United States on Monday (Oct 23) accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. This comes after Iran-backed militias in Iraq claimed responsibility for multiple attacks on US bases in the two countries.

The United States on Monday (Oct 23) accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. This comes after Iran-backed militias in Iraq claimed responsibility for multiple attacks on US bases in the two countries. President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for additional similar attacks and respond appropriately, said White House spokesman John Kirby. He also said that the US has sent a “few” military advisors to Israel. Attacks on US military bases Kirby said there had been an uptick in such attacks over the last week, particularly over the last few days and that the US would not allow its interests in the region to “go unchallenged.” Washington also raised concerns about an escalation of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. However, the US has rejected calls for a ceasefire saying its ally Israel has a right to self-defence. “Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said Kirby. He added, “We know Iran’s goal is to maintain some level of deniability here, but we’re not going to allow them to do that.” This comes as there has been an increase in attacks on US forces in the region, particularly since Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7. Earlier this week, at least five rocket and drone attacks targeted three Iraqi military bases where American troops are stationed as part of the international coalition set up to fight the Islamic State group. On Monday (Oct 23), Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iranian-backed militias, said that its forces used two drones to attack US military bases in Deir el-Zour province and in al-Shaddadi further north. This was after the group also said that it attacked the al-Tanf garrison near the Jordanian and Iraqi borders which is near the desert Rukban camp home to tens of thousands of Syrians. “We are deeply concerned about the potential for any significant escalation of these attacks in the days ahead,” said the White House spokesperson. US sends ‘few’ military advisors to Israel Kirby said that the US has also sent a “few” military advisors to Israel, adding that these officers have experience in “the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting, and may conduct in the future” and were “over there to share some perspectives.” A report by the Associated Press said that the Pentagon has sent military advisers to Israel to help with war planning ahead of their potential ground operation in Gaza. Among those is Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who has previously helped lead special operations forces against the Islamic State and served in Fallujah, Iraq, during some of the most heated urban combat there, a US official told AP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

White House says Iran ‘actively facilitating’ attacks on US military bases

President Joe Biden declared that until all of the hostages taken by Hamas are freed, he will not support an Israel-Hamas ceasefire. When questioned about the possibility of a ceasefire in exchange for Hamas releasing some 200 prisoners, including Americans, said to be in the Gaza Strip, Biden told reporters, "We should have those hostages released and then we can talk."

Death toll in Gaza crosses 5,700, including 2,300 children

In the area to encourage peace negotiations and press for a ceasefire is China's special envoy on Middle East affairs. The likelihood of a protracted ground battle in Gaza is "significantly rising," Zhai Jun continues. According to Zhai, China will keep pushing for a two-state solution and provide the Palestinians with necessary humanitarian help via the UN and bilateral channels. Despite its desire to project an image of neutrality as a mediator, China has significant economic interests in the Middle East, particularly with regard to access to gas and oil. China has not denounced Hamas for its horrific act of terrorism against Israel.

Israel-Hamas war: China's Middle East envoy pitches for peace

Israel-Palestine war: Israel continues ground offensive as US urges it to slowdown

Hamas militants killed at least 1,400 people on October 7 - in which most of them were civilians who were shot or burnt to death on the first day of the raid. The militants also took over 200 people hostages.

Israel-Palestine war: Evidence shows civilians killed | Israel goes all out to counter Hamas

The spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades said that the Palestinian militant group released two Israeli hostages, on Monday (Oct 23), who were being held in the Gaza Strip. Former&nbsp;hostages Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper have been handed over to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) custody, said Prime Minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu's office in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Two more hostages released</h2>

The two detainees were identified by Hamas as Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz. The step was taken following Egyptian-Qatari mediation and “compelling humanitarian” reasons, said the Hamas spokesperson in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-dials-american-hostages-released-by-hamas-649777">US President Joe Biden dials American hostages released by Hamas</a>

Egyptian state media said that the two hostages who were freed by Hamas have arrived at Rafah border crossing. The report also claimed that the release was the result of intense Egyptian efforts.&nbsp;

Additionally, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) took to X and said that they “facilitated the release of 2 more hostages” and transported “them out of Gaza this evening”.

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In the image of Al Qassam Brigades releasing 2 Israeli hostages, what attracted attention was the attitude of the hostages. The hostages even waved their hands. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Palestine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Palestine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Israel</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TelAviv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TelAviv</a> <a href="https://t.co/sP0SZQFUgs">pic.twitter.com/sP0SZQFUgs</a>
— E. E. 🇹🇷 (@muhendisev) <a href="https://twitter.com/muhendisev/status/1716572047906668817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In a statement the spokesperson for Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas said: "We in the Al-Qassam Brigades, through Egyptian-Qatari mediation, released the two detainees, Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz, knowing that the enemy has refused since last Friday to accept their receipt, and is still neglecting the file of its prisoners. We have decided to release them for compelling humanitarian and satisfactory reasons, despite the occupation’s crimes. For more than 8 violations of the procedures that were agreed upon with the mediator brothers that the occupation would adhere to during this day to complete the handover process."

<h2>Israel confirms release</h2>

The militant group had said on Saturday that they wanted to release the same two hostages, but that Israel declined to accept them, according to Times of Israel. Netanyahu’s office, at the time, said it would not respond to Hamas’ “propaganda lies.”

The Israeli PM's office later released a statement confirming that the former hostages were in Israeli custody&nbsp;and are making their way to a hospital in Israel especially set up for them, where they will be reunited with their families.&nbsp;

It also thanked&nbsp;Egypt "for its help" and the Red Cross "for its important life-saving role," adding that the "IDF and&nbsp;the security forces have worked hard in the last few days in all channels to bring about their release and to overcome the many difficulties set by Hamas."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-two-american-hostages-from-gaza-649400">Hamas releases two American hostages from Gaza</a>

A report by Israel’s Channel 12 said that the families of 79-year-old Cooper and Lifshitz, 85, have been notified of their release from Hamas captivity, adding that their husbands remain in Gaza.

According to the report, both women were abducted from their homes in Nir Oz kibbutz.&nbsp;

<h2>Four hostages released from Gaza</h2>

Hamas has now released four female hostages from Gaza after the Palestinian militant group, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages.&nbsp;

Judith and Natalie Raanan were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel. The mother-daughter duo lived in Chicago and were visiting Israel to celebrate a relative’s birthday.

(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.

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The spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades said that the Palestinian militant group released two Israeli hostages, on Monday (Oct 23), who were being held in the Gaza Strip.

The spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades said that the Palestinian militant group released two Israeli hostages, on Monday (Oct 23), who were being held in the Gaza Strip. Former hostages Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper have been handed over to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) custody, said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office in a statement. Two more hostages released The two detainees were identified by Hamas as Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz. The step was taken following Egyptian-Qatari mediation and “compelling humanitarian” reasons, said the Hamas spokesperson in a statement. ALSO READ | US President Joe Biden dials American hostages released by Hamas Egyptian state media said that the two hostages who were freed by Hamas have arrived at Rafah border crossing. The report also claimed that the release was the result of intense Egyptian efforts. Additionally, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) took to X and said that they “facilitated the release of 2 more hostages” and transported “them out of Gaza this evening”. In the image of Al Qassam Brigades releasing 2 Israeli hostages, what attracted attention was the attitude of the hostages. The hostages even waved their hands. #Gaza #Palestine #Israel #TelAviv pic.twitter.com/sP0SZQFUgs — E. E. 🇹🇷 (@muhendisev) October 23, 2023 × In a statement the spokesperson for Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas said: "We in the Al-Qassam Brigades, through Egyptian-Qatari mediation, released the two detainees, Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz, knowing that the enemy has refused since last Friday to accept their receipt, and is still neglecting the file of its prisoners. We have decided to release them for compelling humanitarian and satisfactory reasons, despite the occupation’s crimes. For more than 8 violations of the procedures that were agreed upon with the mediator brothers that the occupation would adhere to during this day to complete the handover process." Israel confirms release The militant group had said on Saturday that they wanted to release the same two hostages, but that Israel declined to accept them, according to Times of Israel. Netanyahu’s office, at the time, said it would not respond to Hamas’ “propaganda lies.” The Israeli PM's office later released a statement confirming that the former hostages were in Israeli custody and are making their way to a hospital in Israel especially set up for them, where they will be reunited with their families. It also thanked Egypt "for its help" and the Red Cross "for its important life-saving role," adding that the "IDF and the security forces have worked hard in the last few days in all channels to bring about their release and to overcome the many difficulties set by Hamas." ALSO READ | Hamas releases two American hostages from Gaza A report by Israel’s Channel 12 said that the families of 79-year-old Cooper and Lifshitz, 85, have been notified of their release from Hamas captivity, adding that their husbands remain in Gaza. According to the report, both women were abducted from their homes in Nir Oz kibbutz. Four hostages released from Gaza Hamas has now released four female hostages from Gaza after the Palestinian militant group, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages. Judith and Natalie Raanan were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel. The mother-daughter duo lived in Chicago and were visiting Israel to celebrate a relative’s birthday. (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas releases two more hostages from Gaza; Israel confirms their arrival

Israeli government spokesman Eylon Levy stated that his nation's goal is to "totally destroy the military and governing capabilities" of Hamas and that military action within the Gaza Strip will occur "at the time of our choosing." The world and the west Asian nation were stunned by the terror attack carried out by Hamas on October 7, in which over 200 Israelis were taken captive and 1400 Israelis died.

Israel govt spokesperson speaks to WION, says 'Israel's mind is on fate of hostages held by Hamas'

Israel-Palestine war | Can Israel manage to get hostages release?

Israel-Palestine war: Release the hostages then we can talk about ceasefire: Biden tells Hamas

The war is raging between Israel and Hamas and attacks from both sides are intensifying. It's many days since Israel declared war on Hamas after an unprecedented ground air and sea assault by the militants over the weekend. The death toll continues to mount on both sides.

Israel-Palestine War: What happens after Hamas has been neutralized?

Experts say the children of Gaza are showing signs of trauma including bed-wetting, convulsions and aggressive behaviour.

Israel-Hamas War: What we know about the children captivity by Hamas | WION Ground report

France calls for 'humanitarian truce' to allow transfer of aid in Gaza strip | WION Dispatch

Israel-Palestine war | Israel not alone in its fight with Hamas: France President Macron | WION

On Tuesday, French President Emmanuel Macron traveled to Tel Aviv to declare his nation's "full solidarity" with Israel. Following that incident, Macron was scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to convey France's "complete solidarity" with Israel, according to the French presidency.

France President Emanuel Macron in Israel, Macron calls for revival of peace process

Israel-Hamas: 4 hostages released by Hamas so far

The Israeli prime minister's son has come under fire from Israeli troops who have opted to fight alongside Hamas for staying in the US and "abandoning" his nation.

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu's son not in Israel, faces flak

The war is raging between Israel and Hamas and attacks from both sides are intensifying. It's now many days since Israel declared war on Hamas after an unprecedented ground air and sea assault by the militants over the weekend. The death toll continues to mount on both sides.

Israel-Hamas war: Beijing's diplomatic strategy explained | Israel & China FMs on call | WION

Hamas releases two elderly Israeli hostages after Egyptian-Qatari diplomacy

China's Middle East envoy pitches for peace | Nations have right to self-defence, China FM to Israel

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