Israeli police on Monday arrested two of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&rsquo;s senior aides as part of the widening "Qatargate" scandal, just hours before Netanyahu was questioned by investigators over the matter.
Jonatan Urich and Eli Feldstein were detained as suspects in the case, which centres on alleged financial ties between Qatar and Netanyahu&rsquo;s inner circle. The arrests came shortly after Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara instructed police to summon the prime minister for testimony.
Netanyahu, who had been attending a court hearing for his ongoing corruption trial in Tel Aviv, abruptly left the courtroom and headed to his office, where he was questioned by the Lahav 433 major crimes unit.
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According to Israeli media, the prime minister was questioned as someone with knowledge of the affair, not as a suspect. However, investigators may decide to summon him again under caution, depending on the outcome of his initial testimony.
A police source told the Kan public broadcaster that Netanyahu was offered a choice of dates but opted to appear the same day, even if it meant interrupting his own trial. &ldquo;He chose to come today and stop the hearing of his case in court,&rdquo; the source said.
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<h2>What is Qatargate?</h2>
The Qatargate investigation revolves around allegations that Netanyahu&rsquo;s former spokesman, Eli Feldstein, worked for Qatar while serving in the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office. 
Feldstein is accused of harming national security by leaking classified IDF documents and allegedly feeding pro-Qatar stories to Israeli journalists via an international PR firm contracted by Doha.
The probe, launched in February, is being led by Israel&rsquo;s Lahav 433 crime unit and the Shin Bet internal security agency. It focuses on suspected Qatari payments made to individuals in Netanyahu&rsquo;s close circle between May 2022 and October 2024.
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Feldstein and Urich were questioned earlier this month on suspicion of fraud, bribery, money laundering, and contact with a foreign agent. A gag order prevents the release of further details.
On Monday, police also summoned a journalist for testimony, which reportedly turned into questioning under caution. Hebrew media said the reporter is suspected of contact with a foreign agent, although law enforcement has not confirmed this publicly.
Feldstein and Urich&rsquo;s lawyer, Amit Hadad, who also represents Netanyahu, left the courtroom during the prime minister&rsquo;s trial to assist the arrested aides.
Critics of the government claim Netanyahu is trying to block the investigation, especially after it emerged that Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, who is leading the inquiry, is being dismissed by Netanyahu&rsquo;s government. Bar has alleged his removal is politically motivated.
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Netanyahu, for his part, has condemned the case as a &ldquo;witch hunt,&rdquo; and the accused aides have denied all wrongdoing.
The scandal dates back to November last year, when reports surfaced that Urich and another top aide, Yisrael Einhorn, had done PR work for Qatar ahead of the 2022 World Cup through Einhorn&rsquo;s firm, Perception. Einhorn, now based in Serbia as an adviser to President Aleksandar Vučić, has yet to be questioned by Israeli authorities due to difficulties in reaching him abroad.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The Qatargate investigation revolves around allegations that Netanyahu’s former spokesman, Eli Feldstein, worked for Qatar while serving in the Prime Minister’s Office.

Israeli police on Monday arrested two of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s senior aides as part of the widening "Qatargate" scandal, just hours before Netanyahu was questioned by investigators over the matter. Jonatan Urich and Eli Feldstein were detained as suspects in the case, which centres on alleged financial ties between Qatar and Netanyahu’s inner circle. The arrests came shortly after Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara instructed police to summon the prime minister for testimony. Netanyahu, who had been attending a court hearing for his ongoing corruption trial in Tel Aviv, abruptly left the courtroom and headed to his office, where he was questioned by the Lahav 433 major crimes unit. Also read: 'Lay down arms and leave': Netanyahu offers Hamas leaders way out of Gaza, but with one condition According to Israeli media, the prime minister was questioned as someone with knowledge of the affair, not as a suspect. However, investigators may decide to summon him again under caution, depending on the outcome of his initial testimony. A police source told the Kan public broadcaster that Netanyahu was offered a choice of dates but opted to appear the same day, even if it meant interrupting his own trial. “He chose to come today and stop the hearing of his case in court,” the source said. Also read: ‘Won’t allow any fire’: Netanyahu warns of strikes ‘everywhere in Lebanon’ after hitting Beirut What is Qatargate? The Qatargate investigation revolves around allegations that Netanyahu’s former spokesman, Eli Feldstein, worked for Qatar while serving in the Prime Minister’s Office. Feldstein is accused of harming national security by leaking classified IDF documents and allegedly feeding pro-Qatar stories to Israeli journalists via an international PR firm contracted by Doha. The probe, launched in February, is being led by Israel’s Lahav 433 crime unit and the Shin Bet internal security agency. It focuses on suspected Qatari payments made to individuals in Netanyahu’s close circle between May 2022 and October 2024. Also read: 'There will be bombing like never before': Trump threatens Iran with strikes, tariffs over nuclear deal refusal Feldstein and Urich were questioned earlier this month on suspicion of fraud, bribery, money laundering, and contact with a foreign agent. A gag order prevents the release of further details. On Monday, police also summoned a journalist for testimony, which reportedly turned into questioning under caution. Hebrew media said the reporter is suspected of contact with a foreign agent, although law enforcement has not confirmed this publicly. Feldstein and Urich’s lawyer, Amit Hadad, who also represents Netanyahu, left the courtroom during the prime minister’s trial to assist the arrested aides. Critics of the government claim Netanyahu is trying to block the investigation, especially after it emerged that Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, who is leading the inquiry, is being dismissed by Netanyahu’s government. Bar has alleged his removal is politically motivated. Also read: Iran's missiles in ready-to-launch mode in underground facilities as Trump warns of military action Netanyahu, for his part, has condemned the case as a “witch hunt,” and the accused aides have denied all wrongdoing. The scandal dates back to November last year, when reports surfaced that Urich and another top aide, Yisrael Einhorn, had done PR work for Qatar ahead of the 2022 World Cup through Einhorn’s firm, Perception. Einhorn, now based in Serbia as an adviser to President Aleksandar Vučić, has yet to be questioned by Israeli authorities due to difficulties in reaching him abroad. (With inputs from agencies)

What is Qatargate? Netanyahu questioned, two top aides arrested as probe deepens

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a press conference on Thursday (Feb 29), where he reiterated that Israel will continue its military operation in Gaza until “total victory” and highlighted the importance of the elimination of Hamas battalions. Meanwhile, the death toll in the besieged Palestinian enclave crossed the 30,000 mark,&nbsp;a grim milestone as the war approaches its fifth month.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Delusional, unrealistic Hamas demands’</h2>

The Israeli PM began the televised press conference by expressing his condolences for the attack in the occupied West Bank where two Israelis were killed after a suspected Palestinian gunman opened fire.

The Israeli military said a gunman had opened fire&nbsp;Thursday afternoon outside the settlement of Eli at a gas station and was “neutralised” by security forces.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Former Israeli PM Ehud Olmert issues stern warning to Netanyahu

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Israel is making relentless efforts to get its hostages back, said Netanyahu, adding that it is “too early” to say if a deal between Hamas and Israel will take place.&nbsp;

“We are running into a brick wall of delusional, unrealistic Hamas demands,” said the Israeli PM. Hamas “knows its demands are delusional and is not even trying to move close to an area of agreement,” he added.&nbsp;

The Israeli PM said he has secured “freedom of operation” for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) in Gaza despite mounting pressure from other countries as well as the international media.&nbsp;

He added, “The current freedom of action for the security forces is unprecedented since the establishment of the state.”&nbsp;

<h2>Operation in Rafah</h2>

The Israeli PM said that the IDF has a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-cabinet-to-approve-netanyahu-and-idf-plans-for-rafah-ground-operation-next-week-693579">clear plan</a> for fighting in Rafah which includes evacuating civilians, addressing humanitarian needs and honouring international law.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-70-people-killed-after-israel-fired-on-gazans-collecting-food-aid-hamas-run-health-ministry-695169">Hamas says 112 killed as fire opened on Gazans collecting food aid; IDF claims truck drove into Palestinians</a>

“Victory over Hamas requires the destruction of all the remaining Hamas battalions – in the centre of Gaza and in Rafah,” said Netanyahu.&nbsp;

The Israeli military’s plan to launch a ground operation in Rafah – where an estimated 1.4 million Palestinian civilians have sought refuge – has been under fire since it was first pitched, with officials from several countries warning that it would lead to a “humanitarian catastrophe”.&nbsp;

“The prospect of an Israeli ground assault on Rafah would take the nightmare being inflicted on people in Gaza into a new dimension,” Volker Turk told the United Nations Human Rights Council, on Thursday (Feb 29).&nbsp;

He also fails to “see how such an operation could be consistent with the binding provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice.”

<h2>US support</h2>

When asked about United States President Joe Biden <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-biden-call-netanyahu-ahole-us-prez-seemingly-furious-with-israeli-pm-over-gaza-war-689651">apparently calling him an a**hole</a>, the Israeli PM noted that the White House has denied the report, and said it “doesn’t influence me in the slightest.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-firing-on-gazans-seeking-food-aid-to-complicate-ceasefire-talks-attack-garners-intl-criticism-695305">Biden says firing on Gazans seeking food aid to ‘complicate’ ceasefire talks; 'attack' garners int’l criticism</a>

Netanyahu also reportedly took credit for US support for Israel amid the ongoing war, saying despite international pressure to end the war before its goals are achieved, a Harvard-Harris poll showed 82 per cent of Americans support Israel.&nbsp;

He added that broad support “gives us the strength to continue the campaign until Hamas is destroyed".

<h2>Gaza death toll crosses 30,000-mark: Gaza health ministry</h2>

At least 30,035 people, mostly women and children, have been killed and 70,457 wounded in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinian militant group since October 7, said the Hamas-run health ministry, on Thursday (Feb 29).&nbsp;

At least 1,200 people were killed in Israel after Hamas launched its October 7 attack on southern Israel and more than 250 people were taken as hostages, according to the Israeli officials.&nbsp;

(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.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a press conference on Thursday (Feb 29), where he reiterated that Israel will continue its military operation in Gaza until “total victory” and highlighted the importance of the elimination of Hamas battalions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a press conference on Thursday (Feb 29), where he reiterated that Israel will continue its military operation in Gaza until “total victory” and highlighted the importance of the elimination of Hamas battalions. Meanwhile, the death toll in the besieged Palestinian enclave crossed the 30,000 mark, a grim milestone as the war approaches its fifth month. ‘Delusional, unrealistic Hamas demands’ The Israeli PM began the televised press conference by expressing his condolences for the attack in the occupied West Bank where two Israelis were killed after a suspected Palestinian gunman opened fire. The Israeli military said a gunman had opened fire Thursday afternoon outside the settlement of Eli at a gas station and was “neutralised” by security forces. WATCH | Former Israeli PM Ehud Olmert issues stern warning to Netanyahu Israel is making relentless efforts to get its hostages back, said Netanyahu, adding that it is “too early” to say if a deal between Hamas and Israel will take place. “We are running into a brick wall of delusional, unrealistic Hamas demands,” said the Israeli PM. Hamas “knows its demands are delusional and is not even trying to move close to an area of agreement,” he added. The Israeli PM said he has secured “freedom of operation” for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) in Gaza despite mounting pressure from other countries as well as the international media. He added, “The current freedom of action for the security forces is unprecedented since the establishment of the state.” Operation in Rafah The Israeli PM said that the IDF has a clear plan for fighting in Rafah which includes evacuating civilians, addressing humanitarian needs and honouring international law. Also Read | Hamas says 112 killed as fire opened on Gazans collecting food aid; IDF claims truck drove into Palestinians “Victory over Hamas requires the destruction of all the remaining Hamas battalions – in the centre of Gaza and in Rafah,” said Netanyahu. The Israeli military’s plan to launch a ground operation in Rafah – where an estimated 1.4 million Palestinian civilians have sought refuge – has been under fire since it was first pitched, with officials from several countries warning that it would lead to a “humanitarian catastrophe”. “The prospect of an Israeli ground assault on Rafah would take the nightmare being inflicted on people in Gaza into a new dimension,” Volker Turk told the United Nations Human Rights Council, on Thursday (Feb 29). He also fails to “see how such an operation could be consistent with the binding provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice.” US support When asked about United States President Joe Biden apparently calling him an a**hole, the Israeli PM noted that the White House has denied the report, and said it “doesn’t influence me in the slightest.” Also Read | Biden says firing on Gazans seeking food aid to ‘complicate’ ceasefire talks; 'attack' garners int’l criticism Netanyahu also reportedly took credit for US support for Israel amid the ongoing war, saying despite international pressure to end the war before its goals are achieved, a Harvard-Harris poll showed 82 per cent of Americans support Israel. He added that broad support “gives us the strength to continue the campaign until Hamas is destroyed". Gaza death toll crosses 30,000-mark: Gaza health ministry At least 30,035 people, mostly women and children, have been killed and 70,457 wounded in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinian militant group since October 7, said the Hamas-run health ministry, on Thursday (Feb 29). At least 1,200 people were killed in Israel after Hamas launched its October 7 attack on southern Israel and more than 250 people were taken as hostages, according to the Israeli officials. (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.

Netanyahu says military operation to continue until ‘total victory’ as death toll in Gaza crosses 30,000

Elected officials and representatives of Israel's Arab minority demonstrated in Jerusalem on Tuesday against the crime plaguing their communities, calling on the government to increase security, an AFP reporter said.&nbsp;

Around 50 current and former members of parliament, as well as municipal representatives and Jewish supporters, gathered in a tent in front of the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a sit-in that began Monday.&nbsp;

"The police are complicit in the crime", read a large banner hanging in the tent in Arabic, Hebrew and English.&nbsp;

Mohammed Baraka, a former MP who heads the High Committee for the Arab Minority in Israel, a civil society group which organised the protest, told AFP it opposed the "spread of crime."

"Hardly a day goes by without gunshots, injuries or murders," he said. "Instead of working to develop our towns and society, we're thinking about how to get out of our homes safely."

Experts say Arab gangs have amassed large quantities of illegal weapons over the past two decades and are involved in drug, arms and human trafficking, prostitution, extortion and money laundering.

Arab-Israelis, descendants of Palestinians who stayed on their land after Israel's creation in 1948 and comprise around 20 per cent of the country's population, have long complained of discrimination and police inaction against violence and crime within their communities.

Baraka accused Israeli authorities of responsibility for the "catastrophe" because the Arab community itself is not allowed to have "the power to arrest, prosecute or confiscate weapons."

According to Israeli police, 84 Arabs have been killed since the start of the year.&nbsp;

"There are thousands of wounded, and nobody talks about it," Mahmoud Nassar, a specialist in criminology at the non-governmental Center for Combating Violence and Crime, told AFP.&nbsp;

At a parliamentary discussion on Arab crime on Monday, Netanyahu invited the Arab lawmakers to his office for a roundtable to address the situation.

"I hear your appeal for increased police presence and more gun confiscations," he said. "We'll have to act on many fronts, and I want your help and cooperation."

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Elected officials and representatives of Israel's Arab minority demonstrated in Jerusalem on Tuesday against the crime plaguing their communities, calling on the government to increase security, an AFP reporter said.

Elected officials and representatives of Israel's Arab minority demonstrated in Jerusalem on Tuesday against the crime plaguing their communities, calling on the government to increase security, an AFP reporter said. Around 50 current and former members of parliament, as well as municipal representatives and Jewish supporters, gathered in a tent in front of the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a sit-in that began Monday. "The police are complicit in the crime", read a large banner hanging in the tent in Arabic, Hebrew and English. Mohammed Baraka, a former MP who heads the High Committee for the Arab Minority in Israel, a civil society group which organised the protest, told AFP it opposed the "spread of crime." "Hardly a day goes by without gunshots, injuries or murders," he said. "Instead of working to develop our towns and society, we're thinking about how to get out of our homes safely." Experts say Arab gangs have amassed large quantities of illegal weapons over the past two decades and are involved in drug, arms and human trafficking, prostitution, extortion and money laundering. Arab-Israelis, descendants of Palestinians who stayed on their land after Israel's creation in 1948 and comprise around 20 per cent of the country's population, have long complained of discrimination and police inaction against violence and crime within their communities. Baraka accused Israeli authorities of responsibility for the "catastrophe" because the Arab community itself is not allowed to have "the power to arrest, prosecute or confiscate weapons." According to Israeli police, 84 Arabs have been killed since the start of the year. "There are thousands of wounded, and nobody talks about it," Mahmoud Nassar, a specialist in criminology at the non-governmental Center for Combating Violence and Crime, told AFP. At a parliamentary discussion on Arab crime on Monday, Netanyahu invited the Arab lawmakers to his office for a roundtable to address the situation. "I hear your appeal for increased police presence and more gun confiscations," he said. "We'll have to act on many fronts, and I want your help and cooperation." 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's Arab minority leaders protest crime menace

In an interview on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he is looking at providing military aid to Ukraine and is willing to work as a mediator, following calls made by the United States for more active involvement.&nbsp;No commitments were made by Netanyahu to Ukraine, as Israel preserves its relationship with Russia, which has control on the skies in Syria and has not reacted to strikes made by Israel on targets of arch-nemesis Iran.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-calls-for-calm-amid-israel-palestine-tensions-netanyahu-evokes-iran-nuclear-weapons-557435">Blinken calls for calm amid Israel-Palestine tensions; Netanyahu evokes Iran nuclear weapons</a>

In an interview with CNN, when asked if assistance could be provided by Israel to Ukraine, like the US-backed technology Iron Dome which defends Israel from air attack, Netanyahu said, "Well, I'm certainly looking into it."

He added that the stockpile of artillery, which belongs to the United States and is stationed in Israel, has been shifted to Ukraine and he looks at the operations against Iran as part of a similar effort.

"The US just took a huge chunk of Israel's munitions and passed it on to Ukraine. Israel also, frankly, acts in ways that I will not itemise here against Iran's weapons productions which are used against Ukraine," Netanyahu said.

Netanyahu added that appeals were made to him to mediate in an unofficial role after Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February, however, he did not go ahead as he was then in opposition.

WATCH | WION Exclusive: 'We have to make sure Israel stays in the right direction', says Benny Gantz

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He added that he was willing to mediate if the US and other parties ask Israel again.

"I've been around long enough to know that there has to be a right time and the right circumstances. If they arise, I'll certainly consider it," Netanyahu said. He added that said believed the Ukraine war was of "monumental importance" but, he further stated, "we have our own backyard to deal with."

(With inputs from agencies)

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In an interview on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he is looking at providing military aid to Ukraine and is willing to work as a mediator, following calls made by the United States for more active involvement.

In an interview on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he is looking at providing military aid to Ukraine and is willing to work as a mediator, following calls made by the United States for more active involvement. No commitments were made by Netanyahu to Ukraine, as Israel preserves its relationship with Russia, which has control on the skies in Syria and has not reacted to strikes made by Israel on targets of arch-nemesis Iran. ALSO READ | Blinken calls for calm amid Israel-Palestine tensions; Netanyahu evokes Iran nuclear weapons In an interview with CNN, when asked if assistance could be provided by Israel to Ukraine, like the US-backed technology Iron Dome which defends Israel from air attack, Netanyahu said, "Well, I'm certainly looking into it." He added that the stockpile of artillery, which belongs to the United States and is stationed in Israel, has been shifted to Ukraine and he looks at the operations against Iran as part of a similar effort. "The US just took a huge chunk of Israel's munitions and passed it on to Ukraine. Israel also, frankly, acts in ways that I will not itemise here against Iran's weapons productions which are used against Ukraine," Netanyahu said. Netanyahu added that appeals were made to him to mediate in an unofficial role after Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February, however, he did not go ahead as he was then in opposition. WATCH | WION Exclusive: 'We have to make sure Israel stays in the right direction', says Benny Gantz He added that he was willing to mediate if the US and other parties ask Israel again. "I've been around long enough to know that there has to be a right time and the right circumstances. If they arise, I'll certainly consider it," Netanyahu said. He added that said believed the Ukraine war was of "monumental importance" but, he further stated, "we have our own backyard to deal with." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says ‘looking into’ sending military aid to Ukraine

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amidst rising tensions between Israel, Palestine. Blinken is expected to also hold talks with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Antony Blinken meets Netanyahu as Israel, Palestine tensions rise

A day after the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution asking the International Court of Justice its opinion on legal consequences of the Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territory. Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu accused the global body of distorting historical facts.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says, 'Jewish people not occupiers in their own land'

Israel's new government to be sworn in after weeks of unexpectedly tough coalition negotiations. Netanyahu is set to assume the role of prime minister for the sixth time.

Watch: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu swearing-in ceremony

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu manoeuvred on Sunday to dissuade opponents from forming a "government of change". With media reports saying a deal to unseat Israel's longest-serving leader could be imminent.

A mandate for opposition chief Yair Lapid to put together a coalition after four inconclusive elections in two years expires on Wednesday. Israeli media said Lapid was closing in on an alliance of right-wing, centrist and leftist parties.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-misses-deadline-to-form-govt-political-future-in-question-382841">Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu misses deadline to form govt, political future in question</a>&nbsp;

Lapid's chances of success rest largely with far-right politician Naftali Bennett, a kingmaker whose Yamina party has six key seats in parliament.

Bennett, 49, was widely expected to announce, possibly as early as Sunday, whether he would team up with Lapid, who heads the centrist Yesh Atid party. Israeli media reports largely predicted Bennett would agree to the partnership.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-president-reuven-rivlin-gives-opposition-chief-lapid-mandate-to-form-government-383057">Israel President Reuven Rivlin gives opposition chief Lapid mandate to form government</a>

But first, Bennett would have to rally his own party's legislators behind joining what right-winger Netanyahu's opponents have described as a government of "change" comprising factions from the left, centre and right.

Still, short of a parliamentary majority after a March 23 election that ended in stalemate, such a diverse grouping could be fragile and require outside backing by Arab members of parliament whose political views differ sharply from Yamina's.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blatant-anti-israel-obsession-netanyahu-denounces-war-crime-probe-by-un-387900">'Blatant anti-Israel obsession': Netanyahu denounces war crime probe by UN</a>

Bennett has maintained public silence in recent days, but Israeli political commentators largely predicted he would opt for a partnership with Lapid. Faced with a possible deal, Netanyahu made a sudden counter-offer on Sunday that would entail a break in the prime minister's 12 consecutive years in office.

Triple Rotation

In a proposal he signed along with leaders of parties in his current coalition, Netanyahu offered to go second in a "triple rotation" of the premiership of a right-wing government.

Under the blueprint, published by a Likud spokesman, Gideon Saar, head of the rightist New Horizon party, would become prime minister for 15 months, followed by Netanyahu for two years and then Bennett for an unspecified "remainder of its term".

Saar, a former Likud cabinet minister, swiftly rejected the offer, writing on Twitter: "Our position and commitment are unchanged - to end Netanyahu's rule."

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There was no immediate comment from Bennett, a former defence minister, who has reversed course before over ousting Netanyahu, 71, a right-wing leader in power consecutively since 2009 and now on trial on corruption charges which he denies.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/witch-hunt-benjamin-netanyahu-denies-all-corruption-charges-in-mondays-trial-362177">Witch-hunt: Benjamin Netanyahu denies all corruption charges in Monday's trial</a>

Yamina announced late on Saturday that Bennett would meet and update its legislators on Sunday, after reports he had agreed to a rotation deal with Lapid and would serve as a prime minister first.

Netanyahu's rivals have cited his ongoing trial on corruption charges, which he denies, as the main reason why Israel needs a new leader.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-faces-court-in-corruption-trial-375515">Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces court in corruption trial</a>

Remaining in government, his critics say, could help Netanyahu in any bid to legislate immunity that could end the proceedings.

With a deal with Lapid widely reported to have been finalised just before fighting erupted on May 10 between Israel and Gaza militants, Bennett said that he was abandoning efforts to form a coalition with the centre and left during the hostilities.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-conflict-ceasefire-between-israel-and-hamas-takes-effect-after-11-day-conflict-leaves-hundreds-dead-386387">Ceasefire between Israel and Hamas takes effect after 11-day conflict leaves hundreds dead</a>

But a ceasefire is holding, a recent wave of street violence in Israel between Arabs and Jews has ebbed, and a Lapid-Bennett partnership could be back on track.

If Lapid, 57, fails to announce a government by Wednesday, a fifth Israeli election since April 2019 - a prospect Bennett has said he wants to avoid - is likely.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu manoeuvred on Sunday to dissuade opponents from forming a "government of change". With media reports saying a deal to unseat Israel's longest-serving leader could be imminent.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu manoeuvred on Sunday to dissuade opponents from forming a "government of change". With media reports saying a deal to unseat Israel's longest-serving leader could be imminent. A mandate for opposition chief Yair Lapid to put together a coalition after four inconclusive elections in two years expires on Wednesday. Israeli media said Lapid was closing in on an alliance of right-wing, centrist and leftist parties. Also Read | Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu misses deadline to form govt, political future in question Lapid's chances of success rest largely with far-right politician Naftali Bennett, a kingmaker whose Yamina party has six key seats in parliament. Bennett, 49, was widely expected to announce, possibly as early as Sunday, whether he would team up with Lapid, who heads the centrist Yesh Atid party. Israeli media reports largely predicted Bennett would agree to the partnership. Also Read | Israel President Reuven Rivlin gives opposition chief Lapid mandate to form government But first, Bennett would have to rally his own party's legislators behind joining what right-winger Netanyahu's opponents have described as a government of "change" comprising factions from the left, centre and right. Still, short of a parliamentary majority after a March 23 election that ended in stalemate, such a diverse grouping could be fragile and require outside backing by Arab members of parliament whose political views differ sharply from Yamina's. Also Read | 'Blatant anti-Israel obsession': Netanyahu denounces war crime probe by UN Bennett has maintained public silence in recent days, but Israeli political commentators largely predicted he would opt for a partnership with Lapid. Faced with a possible deal, Netanyahu made a sudden counter-offer on Sunday that would entail a break in the prime minister's 12 consecutive years in office. Triple Rotation In a proposal he signed along with leaders of parties in his current coalition, Netanyahu offered to go second in a "triple rotation" of the premiership of a right-wing government. Under the blueprint, published by a Likud spokesman, Gideon Saar, head of the rightist New Horizon party, would become prime minister for 15 months, followed by Netanyahu for two years and then Bennett for an unspecified "remainder of its term". Saar, a former Likud cabinet minister, swiftly rejected the offer, writing on Twitter: "Our position and commitment are unchanged - to end Netanyahu's rule." עמדתנו ומחוייבותנו היתה ונותרה: החלפת שלטון נתניהו. בהתאם לכך נמשיך לפעול. המלצה חמה לימים הקרובים: התעלמו מספינים. — Gideon Sa'ar | גדעון סער (@gidonsaar) May 30, 2021 × There was no immediate comment from Bennett, a former defence minister, who has reversed course before over ousting Netanyahu, 71, a right-wing leader in power consecutively since 2009 and now on trial on corruption charges which he denies. Also Read | Witch-hunt: Benjamin Netanyahu denies all corruption charges in Monday's trial Yamina announced late on Saturday that Bennett would meet and update its legislators on Sunday, after reports he had agreed to a rotation deal with Lapid and would serve as a prime minister first. Netanyahu's rivals have cited his ongoing trial on corruption charges, which he denies, as the main reason why Israel needs a new leader. Also Read | Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces court in corruption trial Remaining in government, his critics say, could help Netanyahu in any bid to legislate immunity that could end the proceedings. With a deal with Lapid widely reported to have been finalised just before fighting erupted on May 10 between Israel and Gaza militants, Bennett said that he was abandoning efforts to form a coalition with the centre and left during the hostilities. Also Read | Ceasefire between Israel and Hamas takes effect after 11-day conflict leaves hundreds dead But a ceasefire is holding, a recent wave of street violence in Israel between Arabs and Jews has ebbed, and a Lapid-Bennett partnership could be back on track. If Lapid, 57, fails to announce a government by Wednesday, a fifth Israeli election since April 2019 - a prospect Bennett has said he wants to avoid - is likely.

Netanyahu in last-minute bid to scupper possible deal to unseat him

According to a US media report, the personal data of all voters in the recent Israel elections has been leaked.

A report in the New York Times said that names, addresses and identity card numbers of over 6.4 million voters in the Israel elections were leaked while adding that some phone numbers were also leaked.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-heads-to-new-election-third-in-twelve-months-as-stalemate-continues-267768">Also Read: Israel heads to third election in twelve months as stalemate continues</a>

The newspaper reported that the leak occurred due to an error in the website which was promoting the app called Elector. The flaw as reportedly discovered by a person who informed Israel's&nbsp;Haaretz newspaper. &nbsp;The app was meant to show real-time numbers during election day.

Israel's Justice ministry’s privacy protection authority launched an investigation after the leak became public. The privacy body said &nbsp;had “initiated an oversight process due to suspicions of violations of the Privacy Protection Act and Privacy (Information Security) Regulations, following the leak of information on the voter registry.”

“Privacy Protection Authority supervisors are currently in the offices of one of the companies from which the voter registry with the personal information was allegedly leaked,” it added.

The privacy body said the responsible party would be "criminally or civilly liable" in the event of a breach of the Privacy Protection Act.

The development comes even as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu requested Likud party supporters to download the application to get more supporters in the run-up to the polls in March.

According to a US media report, the personal data of all voters in the recent Israel elections has been leaked. A report in the New York Times said that names, addresses and identity card numbers of over 6.

According to a US media report, the personal data of all voters in the recent Israel elections has been leaked. A report in the New York Times said that names, addresses and identity card numbers of over 6.4 million voters in the Israel elections were leaked while adding that some phone numbers were also leaked. Also Read: Israel heads to third election in twelve months as stalemate continues The newspaper reported that the leak occurred due to an error in the website which was promoting the app called Elector. The flaw as reportedly discovered by a person who informed Israel's Haaretz newspaper. The app was meant to show real-time numbers during election day. Israel's Justice ministry’s privacy protection authority launched an investigation after the leak became public. The privacy body said had “initiated an oversight process due to suspicions of violations of the Privacy Protection Act and Privacy (Information Security) Regulations, following the leak of information on the voter registry.” “Privacy Protection Authority supervisors are currently in the offices of one of the companies from which the voter registry with the personal information was allegedly leaked,” it added. The privacy body said the responsible party would be "criminally or civilly liable" in the event of a breach of the Privacy Protection Act. The development comes even as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu requested Likud party supporters to download the application to get more supporters in the run-up to the polls in March.

Data of all Israeli voters leaked as election app fails;  investigation launched

Israeli military aircraft carried out air strikes against the Gaza Strip on Wednesday night, the army said, in what it called a response to a rocket fired from the Hamas-controlled Palestinian enclave.

Warning sirens had cut short a rally by Israeli <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-takes-cover-during-election-rally-after-rocket-launch-from-gaza-270253">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> as he campaigned on the eve of his Likud party's primaries being held on Thursday, public television reported.

"Planes and helicopters hit several Hamas terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip. Military posts were among the targets," the Israeli army said in a statement.&nbsp;

The army had earlier said "a projectile was fired from the Gaza Strip towards Israeli territory and was intercepted by the Iron Dome defence system".

Israel's public broadcaster KAN 11 showed images of a security guard informing Netanyahu of a "red alert" late Wednesday.

The prime minister waved goodbye before being hustled from the room with his wife Sarah.

On September 10, the head of the Likud party had also been evacuated from an election rally, in the southern city of Ashdod, after sirens warned of an attack from Gaza.

On Thursday, the embattled premier will face off against longtime rival Gideon Saar in a Likud leadership contest that could threaten his grip on power.

Last week, two rocket attacks were launched against Israel from Gaza without causing injury, Israel's army said.

In response, Israeli warplanes twice bombed Hamas installations in the enclave.

Israel holds the Islamist movement responsible for all rocket attacks coming from Gaza, though the Jewish state also targets other armed groups operating there.

Since 2008, Israel has waged three wars against Hamas and its armed allies in Gaza, where two million Palestinians live amid violence, poverty and a 10-year Israeli blockade.

Israeli military aircraft carried out air strikes against the Gaza Strip on Wednesday night, the army said, in what it called a response to a rocket fired from the Hamas-controlled Palestinian enclave.

Israeli military aircraft carried out air strikes against the Gaza Strip on Wednesday night, the army said, in what it called a response to a rocket fired from the Hamas-controlled Palestinian enclave. Warning sirens had cut short a rally by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he campaigned on the eve of his Likud party's primaries being held on Thursday, public television reported. "Planes and helicopters hit several Hamas terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip. Military posts were among the targets," the Israeli army said in a statement. The army had earlier said "a projectile was fired from the Gaza Strip towards Israeli territory and was intercepted by the Iron Dome defence system". Israel's public broadcaster KAN 11 showed images of a security guard informing Netanyahu of a "red alert" late Wednesday. The prime minister waved goodbye before being hustled from the room with his wife Sarah. On September 10, the head of the Likud party had also been evacuated from an election rally, in the southern city of Ashdod, after sirens warned of an attack from Gaza. On Thursday, the embattled premier will face off against longtime rival Gideon Saar in a Likud leadership contest that could threaten his grip on power. Last week, two rocket attacks were launched against Israel from Gaza without causing injury, Israel's army said. In response, Israeli warplanes twice bombed Hamas installations in the enclave. Israel holds the Islamist movement responsible for all rocket attacks coming from Gaza, though the Jewish state also targets other armed groups operating there. Since 2008, Israel has waged three wars against Hamas and its armed allies in Gaza, where two million Palestinians live amid violence, poverty and a 10-year Israeli blockade.

Israel launches air strikes on Gaza after rocket attack

The United States on Monday (November 19) effectively backed Israel's right to build Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank by abandoning its four-decade-old position that they were "inconsistent with international law," in a statement that on Tuesday (November 19) drew praise from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and condemnation from Palestinians.

U.S. backs Israel on settlements, angering Palestinians and clouding peace process

Thousands of Palestinians rallied in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday (June 26) condemning the economic conference in Bahrain.

Palestinians across Gaza and the West Bank angered by Bahrain conference

Israelis began voting on Tuesday in an election that could hand Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a record fifth term or see him dethroned by an ex-general. Watch this video to know more

Israel Election 2019: Israelis vote in high-stakes election

The United States on Wednesday blocked a proposed UN Security Council statement expressing regret over Israel's decision to end an international observer force in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-denounces-israels-decision-over-hebron-monitoring-194610">West Bank city of Hebron</a>, diplomats said.

Kuwait and Indonesia had circulated the draft statement following a closed-door council meeting during which many countries expressed concern about the Israeli move.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced last week that he would not renew the mandate of the Temporary International Presence in Hebron (TIPH), accusing the mission led by Norway of bias.

The 64-member team of unarmed observers was established in Hebron following a massacre of Palestinians in 1994.

The proposed statement was to express the Security Council's "regret" about Israel's "unilateral decision" and call for "calm and restraint" in Hebron, according to the text seen by AFP.&nbsp;

It stressed "the importance of the mandate of the TIPH and its efforts to foster calm in a highly sensitive area and the fragile situation on the ground, which risks further deteriorating, as reflected in the escalating cycle of violence."

The text warned Israel that it has an obligation under international law "to protect the Palestinian civilian population in Hebron" as well as the rest of the occupied territories.&nbsp;

The United States, which has firmly defended Israel's policies at the United Nations, moved quickly to block the proposed response, diplomats said.

Council statements require unanimous approval.

Kuwait's Ambassador Mansour al-Otaibi said the council would discuss a proposed visit to the Israeli occupied territories for a close-up look at the situation on the ground.

The Hebron mission is tasked with promoting a sense of security for Palestinians in Hebron, the largest city in the West Bank.

Hebron is holy to both Muslims and Jews and has been a flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

At least 600 Jewish settlers live under heavy military guard in the city, which is home to around 200,000 Palestinians.

Israeli settlements are seen as illegal under international law and a major obstacle to peace, as they are built on land the Palestinians see as part of their future state.

The United States on Wednesday blocked a proposed UN Security Council statement expressing regret over Israel's decision to end an international observer force in the West Bank city of Hebron, diplomats said.

The United States on Wednesday blocked a proposed UN Security Council statement expressing regret over Israel's decision to end an international observer force in the West Bank city of Hebron, diplomats said. Kuwait and Indonesia had circulated the draft statement following a closed-door council meeting during which many countries expressed concern about the Israeli move. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced last week that he would not renew the mandate of the Temporary International Presence in Hebron (TIPH), accusing the mission led by Norway of bias. The 64-member team of unarmed observers was established in Hebron following a massacre of Palestinians in 1994. The proposed statement was to express the Security Council's "regret" about Israel's "unilateral decision" and call for "calm and restraint" in Hebron, according to the text seen by AFP. It stressed "the importance of the mandate of the TIPH and its efforts to foster calm in a highly sensitive area and the fragile situation on the ground, which risks further deteriorating, as reflected in the escalating cycle of violence." The text warned Israel that it has an obligation under international law "to protect the Palestinian civilian population in Hebron" as well as the rest of the occupied territories. The United States, which has firmly defended Israel's policies at the United Nations, moved quickly to block the proposed response, diplomats said. Council statements require unanimous approval. Kuwait's Ambassador Mansour al-Otaibi said the council would discuss a proposed visit to the Israeli occupied territories for a close-up look at the situation on the ground. The Hebron mission is tasked with promoting a sense of security for Palestinians in Hebron, the largest city in the West Bank. Hebron is holy to both Muslims and Jews and has been a flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. At least 600 Jewish settlers live under heavy military guard in the city, which is home to around 200,000 Palestinians. Israeli settlements are seen as illegal under international law and a major obstacle to peace, as they are built on land the Palestinians see as part of their future state.

US blocks UN move to defend Hebron mission

Israeli police questioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the 12th time on Friday in connection with a long-running corruption investigation.

Investigators questioned Netanyahu's for several hours at his official residence in Jerusalem. Army Radio and other news outlets said questioning focused on two cases in which police have already recommended indictments against him.

One case deals with gifts allegedly given to Netanyahu and his family, and the other with claims he discussed securing better coverage in Yedioth Ahronoth, one of Israel's largest newspapers, in return for curbs on rival daily Israel Hayom.

No charges have been brought against the Israeli leader, who denies any wrongdoing and has called the allegations baseless.

It will be up to Israel's attorney general to decide whether to file charges. Partners in Netanyahu’s governing coalition have stood by him, saying they are awaiting the attorney general's next moves.

The police said in a statement that Friday's questioning lasted "a number of hours" but provided no details.

A spokesman for Netanyahu said the prime minister "answered every question with full confidence, knowing clearly that nothing happened and therefore nothing will come of it."

Netanyahu has also been questioned in a third case in which police allege the owners of Israel’s largest telecom company provided favourable coverage of him and his wife on a news website they controlled in return for special treatment from communications regulators.

Israeli police questioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the 12th time on Friday in connection with a long-running corruption investigation. Investigators questioned Netanyahu's for several hours at his official residence in Jerusalem.

Israeli police questioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the 12th time on Friday in connection with a long-running corruption investigation. Investigators questioned Netanyahu's for several hours at his official residence in Jerusalem. Army Radio and other news outlets said questioning focused on two cases in which police have already recommended indictments against him. One case deals with gifts allegedly given to Netanyahu and his family, and the other with claims he discussed securing better coverage in Yedioth Ahronoth, one of Israel's largest newspapers, in return for curbs on rival daily Israel Hayom. No charges have been brought against the Israeli leader, who denies any wrongdoing and has called the allegations baseless. It will be up to Israel's attorney general to decide whether to file charges. Partners in Netanyahu’s governing coalition have stood by him, saying they are awaiting the attorney general's next moves. The police said in a statement that Friday's questioning lasted "a number of hours" but provided no details. A spokesman for Netanyahu said the prime minister "answered every question with full confidence, knowing clearly that nothing happened and therefore nothing will come of it." Netanyahu has also been questioned in a third case in which police allege the owners of Israel’s largest telecom company provided favourable coverage of him and his wife on a news website they controlled in return for special treatment from communications regulators.

Israel's prime minister questioned again in corruption probe

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday Israel would continue its military operations in Syria, after Russia announced it would supply an advanced anti-aircraft system to its Syrian ally.

"We will continue to act to prevent Iranian military entrenchment in Syria and we will continue the military coordination between the IDF (Israel Defence Forces) and the Russian army," Netanyahu told reporters before boarding a flight to New York, where he will address the UN General Assembly.

Russia said on Monday it would supply an S-300 surface-to-air missile system to Syria in two weeks despite strong Israeli objections, a week after Moscow accused Israel of indirectly causing the downing of a Russian military jet in Syria.

Russia, which fights in Syria to support the government against rebels and militants, has said Syrian anti-aircraft batteries shot its IL-20 surveillance plane down by mistake shortly after Israeli jets hit a nearby target.

Moscow accused Israel of creating dangerous conditions that caused the incident.

Israel, which has carried out air strikes in Syria many times during the civil war, said after the incident it would work to improve "deconfliction" of its missions with Russian forces, but would not halt them.

Netanyahu spoke by telephone with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday. In his remarks on Tuesday, Netanyahu said he had agreed with Putin "that the working teams from the IDF and the Russian army will meet soon".

The Israeli leader made the remarks after convening his security cabinet to discuss the tensions with Moscow.

"Over the past three years, Israel has been highly successful in preventing the Iranian military entrenchment in Syria and Iranian attempts to transfer lethal weaponry to Hezbollah in Lebanon," Netanyahu said.

But he said there had been occasions when things had not gone smoothly, calling Syria's downing of the Russian plane "tragic".

Israel has long lobbied Moscow not to provide the S-300 to Syria, fearing this would hinder its aerial capability to strike the forces of Iran and its Hezbollah allies in Syria.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday Israel would continue its military operations in Syria, after Russia announced it would supply an advanced anti-aircraft system to its Syrian ally.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday Israel would continue its military operations in Syria, after Russia announced it would supply an advanced anti-aircraft system to its Syrian ally. "We will continue to act to prevent Iranian military entrenchment in Syria and we will continue the military coordination between the IDF (Israel Defence Forces) and the Russian army," Netanyahu told reporters before boarding a flight to New York, where he will address the UN General Assembly. Russia said on Monday it would supply an S-300 surface-to-air missile system to Syria in two weeks despite strong Israeli objections, a week after Moscow accused Israel of indirectly causing the downing of a Russian military jet in Syria. Russia, which fights in Syria to support the government against rebels and militants, has said Syrian anti-aircraft batteries shot its IL-20 surveillance plane down by mistake shortly after Israeli jets hit a nearby target. Moscow accused Israel of creating dangerous conditions that caused the incident. Israel, which has carried out air strikes in Syria many times during the civil war, said after the incident it would work to improve "deconfliction" of its missions with Russian forces, but would not halt them. Netanyahu spoke by telephone with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday. In his remarks on Tuesday, Netanyahu said he had agreed with Putin "that the working teams from the IDF and the Russian army will meet soon". The Israeli leader made the remarks after convening his security cabinet to discuss the tensions with Moscow. "Over the past three years, Israel has been highly successful in preventing the Iranian military entrenchment in Syria and Iranian attempts to transfer lethal weaponry to Hezbollah in Lebanon," Netanyahu said. But he said there had been occasions when things had not gone smoothly, calling Syria's downing of the Russian plane "tragic". Israel has long lobbied Moscow not to provide the S-300 to Syria, fearing this would hinder its aerial capability to strike the forces of Iran and its Hezbollah allies in Syria.

Netanyahu says Israel will continue operations in Syria against Iran

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmaavat-now-rajasthan-bans-the-film-keeping-public-interest-in-mind-29892" target="_blank">Padmaavat</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmaavat-now-rajasthan-bans-the-film-keeping-public-interest-in-mind-29892" target="_blank">: Now, Rajasthan bans the film keeping public interest in mind</a>

After Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Haryana, Rajasthan is the fourth state to officially ban Sanjay Leela Bhansali&#39;s&nbsp;Padmaavat. The film, that is scheduled to release in theaters on January 25th will not be releasing in Rajasthan, a notice by the Rajasthan government said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-arrests-ex-cia-official-linked-to-spying-for-china-29896" target="_blank">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-arrests-ex-cia-official-linked-to-spying-for-china-29896" target="_blank"> arrests ex-CIA official linked to spying for China</a>

A former CIA official who lives in Hong Kong was arrested by US authorities in New York airport on Monday after FBI agents allegedly found classified information in his hotel room, including two small books containing information on details of true names and numbers of spy recruits and covert CIA employees.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/spike-anti-tank-missile-deal-with-india-back-on-track-netanyahu-29889" target="_blank">Spike anti-tank missile deal with India back on track: Netanyahu</a>

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on a four-day visit to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-cancels-spike-anti-tank-guided-missiles-deal-with-israel-28444">India confirmed the Spike anti-tank missile&nbsp;</a>deal which was scrapped by India a fortnight ago was back on track, Israel media reported.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-lawmakers-back-brexit-legislation-stiffer-tests-yet-to-come-29888" target="_blank">British lawmakers back Brexit legislation, stiffer tests yet to come</a>

British lawmakers voted in favour of the government&#39;s legislative blueprint for&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;on Wednesday, marking a victory for Prime Minister Theresa May over political opponents who want a softer approach to leaving the European Union.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/1-bsf-soldier-killed-3-civilians-injured-in-ceasefire-violation-in-jk-29887" target="_blank">J&amp;K: 1 BSF soldier killed, 3 civilians injured as Pak troops open fire along LoC</a>

A BSF soldier lost his life after a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-troops-fire-at-loc-posts-in-poonch-army-captain-injured-29759" target="_blank">ceasefire violation by the&nbsp;Pakistan forces</a>&nbsp;in the R S Pura sector of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp; The firing by Pakistan troops also hit neighbouring villages injuring 3 civilians

Padmaavat: Now, Rajasthan bans the film keeping public interest in mind After Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Haryana, Rajasthan is the fourth state to officially ban Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmaavat. The film, that is scheduled to release in theaters on January 25th will not be releasing in Rajasthan, a notice by the Rajasthan government said. US arrests ex-CIA official linked to spying for China A former CIA official who lives in Hong Kong was arrested by US authorities in New York airport on Monday after FBI agents allegedly found classified information in his hotel room, including two small books containing information on details of true names and numbers of spy recruits and covert CIA employees. Spike anti-tank missile deal with India back on track: Netanyahu Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on a four-day visit to India confirmed the Spike anti-tank missile deal which was scrapped by India a fortnight ago was back on track, Israel media reported. British lawmakers back Brexit legislation, stiffer tests yet to come British lawmakers voted in favour of the government's legislative blueprint for Brexit on Wednesday, marking a victory for Prime Minister Theresa May over political opponents who want a softer approach to leaving the European Union. J&K: 1 BSF soldier killed, 3 civilians injured as Pak troops open fire along LoC A BSF soldier lost his life after a ceasefire violation by the Pakistan forces in the R S Pura sector of Jammu and Kashmir. The firing by Pakistan troops also hit neighbouring villages injuring 3 civilians

WION Morning News brief, January 18, 2018

Arabs and Muslims across the Middle East on Wednesday condemned the US&nbsp;recognition of Jerusalem as Israel&#39;s capital as an incendiary move in a volatile region and Palestinians said Washington was abandoning its leading role as a peace mediator.

The European Union and United Nations also voiced alarm at US&nbsp;President Donald Trump&#39;s decision to move the US&nbsp;Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and its repercussions for any chances of reviving Israeli-Palestinian peacemaking.

Major US&nbsp;allies came out against Trump&#39;s reversal of decades of US&nbsp;and broad international policy on Jerusalem.

France rejected the &quot;unilateral&quot; decision while appealing for calm in the region. Britain said the move would not help peace efforts and Jerusalem should ultimately be shared by Israel and a future Palestinian state. Germany said Jerusalem&#39;s status could only be resolved on the basis of a two-state solution.

Israel, by contrast, applauded Trump&#39;s move. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a pre-recorded video message that it was &quot;an important step towards peace&quot; and it was &quot;our goal from Israel&#39;s first day&quot;.

He added that any peace accord with the Palestinians would have to include Jerusalem as Israel&#39;s capital and he urged other countries to follow Trump&#39;s example.

Trump upended decades of US&nbsp;policy in defiance of warnings from around the world that the gesture risks aggravating conflict in the tinderbox Middle East.

The status of Jerusalem is home to sites holy to the Muslim, Jewish and Christian faiths. Its eastern sector was captured by Israel in a 1967 war and annexed in a move not recognized internationally. Palestinians claim East Jerusalem for the capital of an independent state they seek.

Israel deems Jerusalem its eternal and indivisible capital dating to antiquity, and its status is one of the thorniest barriers to a lasting Israeli-Palestinian peace.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, in a pre-recorded speech, said Jerusalem was the &quot;eternal capital of the State of Palestine&quot; and that Trump&#39;s move was &quot;tantamount to the United States abdicating its role as a peace mediator.&quot;

The last round of US-brokered talks foundered in 2014 over issues including Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank and Israeli accusations of Palestinian incitement to violence and refusal to recognise it as a Jewish state.

The Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, which has dominated Gaza since soon after Israel ended a 38-year occupation in 2005, said Trump had committed a &quot;flagrant aggression against the Palestinian people&quot;. Hamas urged Arabs and Muslims to &quot;undermine US&nbsp;interests in the region&quot; and to &quot;shun Israel&quot;.

Protests broke out in parts of Jordan&#39;s capital Amman inhabited by Palestinian refugees, with youths chanting anti-American slogans. In the Baqaa refugee camp on Amman&#39;s outskirts, hundreds roamed the streets denouncing Trump and urging Jordan to scrap its 1994 peace treaty with Israel. &quot;Down with America...America is the mother of terror,&quot; they chanted.

Angry Palestinians switched off Christmas lights at Jesus&#39; traditional birthplace in the West Bank town of Bethlehem and in Ramallah. A tree adorned with lights outside Bethlehem&#39;s Church of the Nativity, where Christians believe Jesus was born, and another in Ramallah, next to the grave of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, were plunged into darkness.

All Palestinian factions called for a general strike and protest rallies at midday on Thursday.

Legally null decision

The Saudi Royal Court issued a statement saying that the kingdom followed &quot;with deep sorrow&quot; Trump&#39;s decision and warned of &quot;dangerous consequences of moving the US&nbsp;Embassy to Jerusalem&quot;.

The statement described the move as &quot;a big step back in efforts to advance the peace process&quot;, and urged the US&nbsp;administration to reverse its decision and adhere to international will.

Egypt, which forged the first Arab peace deal with Israel in 1979, brushed off Trump&#39;s decision and said it did not change Jerusalem&#39;s disputed legal status.

Jordan said Trump&#39;s action was &quot;legally null&quot; because it consolidated Israel&#39;s occupation of East Jerusalem.

Lebanese President Michel Aoun said Trump&#39;s Jerusalem decision was dangerous and threatened the credibility of the United States as a broker of Middle East peace. He said the move would put back the peace process by decades and threatened regional stability and perhaps global stability.

Qatar&#39;s foreign minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, said Trump&#39;s undertaking was a &quot;death sentence for all who seek peace&quot; and called it &quot;a dangerous escalation&quot;.

Turkey said Trump&#39;s move was &quot;irresponsible&quot;.

&quot;We call upon the US&nbsp;Administration to reconsider this faulty decision which may result in highly negative outcomes and to avoid uncalculated steps that will harm the multicultural identity and historical status of Jerusalem,&quot; the Turkish foreign ministry said in a statement.

A few hundred protesters gathered outside the US&nbsp;consulate in Istanbul, a Reuters cameraman at the scene said. The protest was largely peaceful, though some of the demonstrators threw coins and other objects at the consulate.

Iran &quot;seriously condemns&quot; Trump&#39;s move as it violates UN&nbsp;resolutions on the Israel-Palestinian conflict, state media reported. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said earlier in the day that the United States was trying to destabilize the region and start a war to protect Israel&#39;s security.

In Southeast Asia, the leaders of Muslim-majority Indonesia and Malaysia denounced Trump&#39;s action.

&quot;This can rock global security and stability,&quot; Indonesian President Joko Widodo, leader of the world&#39;s largest Muslim-majority nation, told a news conference in which he called for the United States to reconsider its decision.

British Prime Minister Theresa May disagreed with Trump&#39;s embrace of Jerusalem as Israel&#39;s capital before a final-status agreement as this was unlikely to help nurture peace in the region, her spokesman said.

However, May&#39;s spokesman welcomed Trump&#39;s stated wish to end the conflict and his acknowledgment that the final status of Jerusalem, including boundaries within the city, must be subject to negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians.

French President Emmanuel Macron said he did not support Trump&#39;s &quot;unilateral&quot; move.

&quot;The status of Jerusalem is a question of international security that concerns the entire international community. The status of Jerusalem must be determined by Israelis and Palestinians in the framework of negotiations under the auspices of the United Nations,&quot; Macron told reporters in Algiers.

&quot;France and Europe are attached to a two-state solution - Israel and Palestine - living side by side in peace and security within recognised international borders with Jerusalem the capital of both states,&quot; he said.

&quot;For now, I urge for calm and for everyone to be responsible. We must avoid at all costs avoid violence and foster dialogue,&quot; he said.

UN&nbsp;Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said there was no alternative to a two-state solution and Jerusalem was a final-status matter only to be settled through direct talks.

&quot;I have consistently spoken out against any unilateral measures that would jeopardize the prospect of peace for Israelis and Palestinians,&quot; Guterres said. &quot;I will do everything in my power to support the Israeli and Palestinian leaders to return to meaningful negotiations.&quot;

Israel, by contrast, applauded Trump's move. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a pre-recorded video message that it was 'an important step towards peace' and it was 'our goal from Israel's first day'.

Arabs and Muslims across the Middle East on Wednesday condemned the US recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital as an incendiary move in a volatile region and Palestinians said Washington was abandoning its leading role as a peace mediator. The European Union and United Nations also voiced alarm at US President Donald Trump's decision to move the US Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and its repercussions for any chances of reviving Israeli-Palestinian peacemaking. Major US allies came out against Trump's reversal of decades of US and broad international policy on Jerusalem. France rejected the "unilateral" decision while appealing for calm in the region. Britain said the move would not help peace efforts and Jerusalem should ultimately be shared by Israel and a future Palestinian state. Germany said Jerusalem's status could only be resolved on the basis of a two-state solution. Israel, by contrast, applauded Trump's move. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a pre-recorded video message that it was "an important step towards peace" and it was "our goal from Israel's first day". He added that any peace accord with the Palestinians would have to include Jerusalem as Israel's capital and he urged other countries to follow Trump's example. Trump upended decades of US policy in defiance of warnings from around the world that the gesture risks aggravating conflict in the tinderbox Middle East. The status of Jerusalem is home to sites holy to the Muslim, Jewish and Christian faiths. Its eastern sector was captured by Israel in a 1967 war and annexed in a move not recognized internationally. Palestinians claim East Jerusalem for the capital of an independent state they seek. Israel deems Jerusalem its eternal and indivisible capital dating to antiquity, and its status is one of the thorniest barriers to a lasting Israeli-Palestinian peace. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, in a pre-recorded speech, said Jerusalem was the "eternal capital of the State of Palestine" and that Trump's move was "tantamount to the United States abdicating its role as a peace mediator." The last round of US-brokered talks foundered in 2014 over issues including Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank and Israeli accusations of Palestinian incitement to violence and refusal to recognise it as a Jewish state. The Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, which has dominated Gaza since soon after Israel ended a 38-year occupation in 2005, said Trump had committed a "flagrant aggression against the Palestinian people". Hamas urged Arabs and Muslims to "undermine US interests in the region" and to "shun Israel". Protests broke out in parts of Jordan's capital Amman inhabited by Palestinian refugees, with youths chanting anti-American slogans. In the Baqaa refugee camp on Amman's outskirts, hundreds roamed the streets denouncing Trump and urging Jordan to scrap its 1994 peace treaty with Israel. "Down with America...America is the mother of terror," they chanted. Angry Palestinians switched off Christmas lights at Jesus' traditional birthplace in the West Bank town of Bethlehem and in Ramallah. A tree adorned with lights outside Bethlehem's Church of the Nativity, where Christians believe Jesus was born, and another in Ramallah, next to the grave of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, were plunged into darkness. All Palestinian factions called for a general strike and protest rallies at midday on Thursday. Legally null decision The Saudi Royal Court issued a statement saying that the kingdom followed "with deep sorrow" Trump's decision and warned of "dangerous consequences of moving the US Embassy to Jerusalem". The statement described the move as "a big step back in efforts to advance the peace process", and urged the US administration to reverse its decision and adhere to international will. Egypt, which forged the first Arab peace deal with Israel in 1979, brushed off Trump's decision and said it did not change Jerusalem's disputed legal status. Jordan said Trump's action was "legally null" because it consolidated Israel's occupation of East Jerusalem. Lebanese President Michel Aoun said Trump's Jerusalem decision was dangerous and threatened the credibility of the United States as a broker of Middle East peace. He said the move would put back the peace process by decades and threatened regional stability and perhaps global stability. Qatar's foreign minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, said Trump's undertaking was a "death sentence for all who seek peace" and called it "a dangerous escalation". Turkey said Trump's move was "irresponsible". "We call upon the US Administration to reconsider this faulty decision which may result in highly negative outcomes and to avoid uncalculated steps that will harm the multicultural identity and historical status of Jerusalem," the Turkish foreign ministry said in a statement. A few hundred protesters gathered outside the US consulate in Istanbul, a Reuters cameraman at the scene said. The protest was largely peaceful, though some of the demonstrators threw coins and other objects at the consulate. Iran "seriously condemns" Trump's move as it violates UN resolutions on the Israel-Palestinian conflict, state media reported. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said earlier in the day that the United States was trying to destabilize the region and start a war to protect Israel's security. In Southeast Asia, the leaders of Muslim-majority Indonesia and Malaysia denounced Trump's action. "This can rock global security and stability," Indonesian President Joko Widodo, leader of the world's largest Muslim-majority nation, told a news conference in which he called for the United States to reconsider its decision. British Prime Minister Theresa May disagreed with Trump's embrace of Jerusalem as Israel's capital before a final-status agreement as this was unlikely to help nurture peace in the region, her spokesman said. However, May's spokesman welcomed Trump's stated wish to end the conflict and his acknowledgment that the final status of Jerusalem, including boundaries within the city, must be subject to negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians. French President Emmanuel Macron said he did not support Trump's "unilateral" move. "The status of Jerusalem is a question of international security that concerns the entire international community. The status of Jerusalem must be determined by Israelis and Palestinians in the framework of negotiations under the auspices of the United Nations," Macron told reporters in Algiers. "France and Europe are attached to a two-state solution - Israel and Palestine - living side by side in peace and security within recognised international borders with Jerusalem the capital of both states," he said. "For now, I urge for calm and for everyone to be responsible. We must avoid at all costs avoid violence and foster dialogue," he said. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said there was no alternative to a two-state solution and Jerusalem was a final-status matter only to be settled through direct talks. "I have consistently spoken out against any unilateral measures that would jeopardize the prospect of peace for Israelis and Palestinians," Guterres said. "I will do everything in my power to support the Israeli and Palestinian leaders to return to meaningful negotiations."

Arabs, Europe, UN?reject Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as Israeli capital

Thousands of People held a rally against&nbsp;corruption and a new legislation in Tel Aviv on Saturday night.

People took out a &quot;march of shame&quot; in response to the government&#39;s police recommendations bill, which critics are believing to be aimed at shielding the corruption cases labelled against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Local Media reported that the bill will prevent Israel&#39;s police from making public their recommendations to indict following an investigation.

The march was organised by the leaders of the weekly anti-corruption demonstrations and people in large number participated in the protest.

Prime Minister Netanyahu is under the scanner in two cases. The first involves receiving gifts from wealthy businessmen and the second is negotiating a deal with a newspaper owner for better coverage in return for curbs on a rival daily.

Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing. Similar protests were also held in Jerusalem and Haifa.

People took out a 'march of shame' in response to the government's police recommendations bill, which critics are believing to be aimed at shielding the corruption cases labelled against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Thousands of People held a rally against corruption and a new legislation in Tel Aviv on Saturday night. People took out a "march of shame" in response to the government's police recommendations bill, which critics are believing to be aimed at shielding the corruption cases labelled against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Local Media reported that the bill will prevent Israel's police from making public their recommendations to indict following an investigation. The march was organised by the leaders of the weekly anti-corruption demonstrations and people in large number participated in the protest. Prime Minister Netanyahu is under the scanner in two cases. The first involves receiving gifts from wealthy businessmen and the second is negotiating a deal with a newspaper owner for better coverage in return for curbs on a rival daily. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing. Similar protests were also held in Jerusalem and Haifa.

Israelis hold 'march of shame' against Netanyahu in Tel Aviv

Israeli lawmakers approved jailing children as young as 12 convicted of &quot;terrorist offences&quot; in the wake of repeated attacks by young Palestinians, parliament said today. 
 
&quot;The &#39;Youth Bill&#39; which will allow the authorities to imprison a minor convicted of serious crimes such as murder, attempted murder or manslaughter, even if he or she is under the age of 14, passed its second and third readings Tuesday night,&quot; an English-language statement said. 
 
It added that the seriousness of attacks in recent months &quot;demands a more aggressive approach, including toward minors&quot;. 
 
The statement quoted Anat Berko, a lawmaker from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&#39;s right-wing Likud party and the bill&#39;s sponsor, as saying &quot;to those who are murdered with a knife in the heart, it does not matter if the child is 12 or 15&quot;. 
 
Violence in the Palestinian territories and Israel since October has killed at least 218 Palestinians, 34 Israelis, two Americans, an Eritrean and a Sudanese, according to an AFP count. 
 
Most of the Palestinians killed were carrying out knife, gun or car-ramming attacks, according to Israeli authorities.&nbsp;Many of the assailants were young people, including teenagers. Other youths have been shot dead during protests and clashes with security forces.&nbsp;Israeli justice minister Ayelet Shaked gave the bill full backing when it came before a ministerial committee last year. 
 
&quot;Youths, such as Ahmed Manasra, who engage in terror and seek the death of Jewish civilians will not be shown mercy by the law,&quot; media quoted her as saying. 
 
Manasra, a 14-year-old Palestinian, was convicted in May of the attempted murder of two Israelis in a knife attack last October. He was 13 when he carried out the attack and is yet to be sentenced. 
 
Along with a 15-year-old cousin, he stabbed and seriously wounded a 20-year-old and a 12-year-old boy in the Jewish settlement neighbourhood of Pisgat Zeev in annexed east Jerusalem.&nbsp;The cousin was shot dead by security forces, while Manasra was hit by a car as they fled. 
 
Manasra, an east Jerusalem resident, was the youngest Palestinian to be convicted by an Israeli civilian court in the current round of violence.&nbsp;Israeli rights group B&#39;Tselem criticised the bill and Israel&#39;s treatment of Palestinian youths. 
 
&quot;Rather than sending them to prison, Israel would be better off sending them to school where they could grow up in dignity and freedom, not under occupation,&quot; it said in a statement today.&nbsp;&quot;Imprisoning such young minors denies them the chance of a better future.&quot; 
 
Military law, applied to Palestinian residents of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, already allows imprisonment of 12-year-olds. 
 
A 12-year-old Palestinian girl from the West Bank, convicted of attempted murder by a military court as part of a plea bargain and sentenced to four months, was released from prison in April. 
 
(AFP)

In the wake of repeated attacks by young Palestinians, 'Youth Bill' will allow a minor convicted of crimes like murder to be imprisoned

Israeli lawmakers approved jailing children as young as 12 convicted of "terrorist offences" in the wake of repeated attacks by young Palestinians, parliament said today. "The 'Youth Bill' which will allow the authorities to imprison a minor convicted of serious crimes such as murder, attempted murder or manslaughter, even if he or she is under the age of 14, passed its second and third readings Tuesday night," an English-language statement said. It added that the seriousness of attacks in recent months "demands a more aggressive approach, including toward minors". The statement quoted Anat Berko, a lawmaker from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party and the bill's sponsor, as saying "to those who are murdered with a knife in the heart, it does not matter if the child is 12 or 15". Violence in the Palestinian territories and Israel since October has killed at least 218 Palestinians, 34 Israelis, two Americans, an Eritrean and a Sudanese, according to an AFP count. Most of the Palestinians killed were carrying out knife, gun or car-ramming attacks, according to Israeli authorities. Many of the assailants were young people, including teenagers. Other youths have been shot dead during protests and clashes with security forces. Israeli justice minister Ayelet Shaked gave the bill full backing when it came before a ministerial committee last year. "Youths, such as Ahmed Manasra, who engage in terror and seek the death of Jewish civilians will not be shown mercy by the law," media quoted her as saying. Manasra, a 14-year-old Palestinian, was convicted in May of the attempted murder of two Israelis in a knife attack last October. He was 13 when he carried out the attack and is yet to be sentenced. Along with a 15-year-old cousin, he stabbed and seriously wounded a 20-year-old and a 12-year-old boy in the Jewish settlement neighbourhood of Pisgat Zeev in annexed east Jerusalem. The cousin was shot dead by security forces, while Manasra was hit by a car as they fled. Manasra, an east Jerusalem resident, was the youngest Palestinian to be convicted by an Israeli civilian court in the current round of violence. Israeli rights group B'Tselem criticised the bill and Israel's treatment of Palestinian youths. "Rather than sending them to prison, Israel would be better off sending them to school where they could grow up in dignity and freedom, not under occupation," it said in a statement today. "Imprisoning such young minors denies them the chance of a better future." Military law, applied to Palestinian residents of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, already allows imprisonment of 12-year-olds. A 12-year-old Palestinian girl from the West Bank, convicted of attempted murder by a military court as part of a plea bargain and sentenced to four months, was released from prison in April. (AFP)

Israel approves law jailing terrorists aged 12