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It has been exactly one year since the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip began on October 7. Within this period, the Israeli military bombed more than Hamas 40,000 targets, found 4,700 tunnel shafts and destroyed 1,000 rocket launcher sites.

It has been exactly one year since the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip began on October 7. Within this period, the Israeli military bombed more than Hamas 40,000 targets, found 4,700 tunnel shafts and destroyed 1,000 rocket launcher sites. On Monday (Oct 7), the military said 726 soldiers had been killed since October 7 last year. Of those, 380 died in Hamas' October 7 attacks and 346 in Gaza combat starting October 27, 2023. Injured troops numbered 4,576 since that date. Fifty-six soldiers died as a result of operational accidents, which the military did not define, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Hamas' attack and Israel's retaliation The war in Gaza was triggered when Palestinian Hamas militants attacked southern Israel (on Oct 7 last year), killing 1,200 people and taking about 250 as hostages, according to Israeli tallies. More than 100 hostages remain held by Hamas. Also read | Fearing for his life, Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar ceases contact with Qatari mediators Israel's subsequent military assault on Gaza has killed more than 41,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry. On Monday, the Israeli military also said that it enlisted 300,000 reservists since the start of the war - 82 per cent men and 18 per cent women and nearly half of them aged 20 to 29. Tens of thousands of rockets fired into Israel Since the start of the conflict, 13,200 rockets were fired into Israel from Gaza. Another 12,400 were fired from Lebanon, while 60 came from Syria, 180 from Yemen and 400 from Iran, the military said. It said it killed more than 800 "terrorists" in Lebanon, where 4,900 targets had been struck from the air along with about 6,000 ground targets. Over the past year, Israel arrested more than 5,000 suspects in the West Bank and Jordan Valley. The military further said it killed eight Gaza militant brigade commanders, about 30 battalion commanders and 165 company commanders over the past year. October 7 commemorations begin With candles, prayers and music, commemorations for the October 7 attack began in Israel's Tel Aviv to mark the first anniversary of the war. Picture of those killed appeared on a screen at the entrance to the ceremony, as hundreds gathered to light candles at a makeshift shrine, leave handwritten notes or simply embrace each other, a report by the news agency AFP said. Also watch | How will Israel respond to Iran's missile attack? × "Coming to this event one year after this terrible massacre that happened on October 7, it's very touching, it's very breathtaking," one of the organisers of the event told AFP. The first anniversary of the war came as Israel is engaged in a conflict with Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah and is preparing to retaliate against Iran's massive missile attack last week, raising fears of an even wider conflict in West Asia. (With inputs from agencies)

In one year of Gaza war, Israel bombed over 40,000 Hamas targets

Mohamed Muizzu, the president of the Maldives, landed in Delhi on Sunday afternoon to begin a five day private tour of India. Muizzu was accompanied by Sajidha Mohamed, the First Lady of the Maldives. Muizzu is set to meet PM Modi to reset strained ties. Watch to know more.

Ceremonial Welcome For Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu is all set to begin his five-day (October 6-10) state visit to India on Sunday following an official invitation extended by his Indian counterpart Droupadi Murmu.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu to Begin Five-Day State Visit to India

Congolese health officials launched their first mpox vaccination campaign on Saturday, a key step in efforts to contain an outbreak that has spread from its epicentre in the Democratic Republic of Congo to numerous other African nations this year.

Congolese health officials launched their first mpox vaccination campaign on Saturday, a key step in efforts to contain an outbreak that has spread from its epicentre in the Democratic Republic of Congo to numerous other African nations this year. Officials held a ceremony to mark the start of vaccinations at a hospital in the eastern city of Goma, where health workers were first in line to receive the vaccine doses. The Health Ministry warned on Friday that the campaign’s scope would be small due to limited resources. At the moment, 265,000 vaccine doses are available, though more are in the pipeline. The start of vaccinations begins to address a huge inequity that left African countries with no access to the two shots used to fight a 2022 global mpox outbreak, while they were widely available in Europe and the United States. “The rollout of the vaccine marks an important step in limiting the spread of the virus and ensuring the safety of families and communities,” the World Health Organization’s Africa director Matshidiso Moeti said in a statement. Also read: Lebanon calls on India to help de-escalate West Asia crisis: Ambassador Narsh Mpox can spread through close contact. Usually mild, it is fatal in rare cases. It typically causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions on the body. In August, the WHO declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern after a new variant was identified. Congo has reported more than 30,000 suspected and confirmed cases, and 990 deaths since the start of 2024 – accounting for 90 per cent of the cases reported from Africa so far this year, according to the WHO. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Congo launches mpox vaccination campaign after over 850 deaths reported this year

Congo Launches Its First Mpox Vaccination Campaign

Tehran's top diplomat in Damascus on Saturday threatened an "even stronger" reaction to any aggression, as Israel readied its response to an Iranian missile attack earlier this week.

"Our reaction to any attack by the Zionist regime is completely clear," Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told reporters in the Syrian capital, where he met top officials including Tehran's ally President Bashar al-Assad.

"For every action, there will be a proportional and similar reaction from Iran, and even stronger," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-had-gun-during-first-public-sermon-in-5-years-slamming-israel-not-for-first-time-764510">Also read:&nbsp;Iran's Khamenei had gun during first public sermon in 5 years slamming Israel. Not for first time</a>

He spoke after an Israeli military official told AFP on condition of anonymity, as he was not authorised to discuss the issue publicly, the army was "preparing a response to the unprecedented and unlawful Iranian attack".

In Damascus earlier, Araghchi renewed his call for ceasefires in the Gaza Strip and in Lebanon.

Araghchi's visit, his first since he took office in August, comes almost a year after Iran-backed Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked Israel, triggering the war in Gaza.

The conflict has also drawn in Iran's Lebanese ally Hezbollah, and on September 23 Israel sharply intensified its campaign against the militant group.

Watch |&nbsp;Iran-Israel War: Nuclear Devastation Looms Over Iran, Israel

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"The most important issue today is the ceasefire, especially in Lebanon and in Gaza," Araghchi said.

"There are initiatives in this regard. There have been consultations that we hope will be successful."

His meetings in Damascus follow a visit to Beirut on Friday during which he voiced support for a truce in Lebanon acceptable to Hezbollah, "simultaneously with a ceasefire in Gaza".

He travelled to Syria's capital by air after Lebanon said an Israeli air strike on Friday severed the main international highway linking the two countries.

Israel said the strike aimed to prevent the flow of weapons to Hezbollah from neighbouring Syria.

Iran has been a staunch ally of Assad throughout the civil war that erupted in 2011 following the suppression of anti-government protests.

Earlier on Saturday, Assad's office quoted him as saying Iran's missile attack on Israel was "a strong response and taught the Zionist entity a lesson".

The attack came just days after an Israeli air strike in southern Beirut killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Tehran's top diplomat in Damascus on Saturday threatened an "even stronger" reaction to any aggression, as Israel readied its response to an Iranian missile attack earlier this week.

Tehran's top diplomat in Damascus on Saturday threatened an "even stronger" reaction to any aggression, as Israel readied its response to an Iranian missile attack earlier this week. "Our reaction to any attack by the Zionist regime is completely clear," Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told reporters in the Syrian capital, where he met top officials including Tehran's ally President Bashar al-Assad. "For every action, there will be a proportional and similar reaction from Iran, and even stronger," he said. Also read: Iran's Khamenei had gun during first public sermon in 5 years slamming Israel. Not for first time He spoke after an Israeli military official told AFP on condition of anonymity, as he was not authorised to discuss the issue publicly, the army was "preparing a response to the unprecedented and unlawful Iranian attack". In Damascus earlier, Araghchi renewed his call for ceasefires in the Gaza Strip and in Lebanon. Araghchi's visit, his first since he took office in August, comes almost a year after Iran-backed Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked Israel, triggering the war in Gaza. The conflict has also drawn in Iran's Lebanese ally Hezbollah, and on September 23 Israel sharply intensified its campaign against the militant group. Watch | Iran-Israel War: Nuclear Devastation Looms Over Iran, Israel × "The most important issue today is the ceasefire, especially in Lebanon and in Gaza," Araghchi said. "There are initiatives in this regard. There have been consultations that we hope will be successful." His meetings in Damascus follow a visit to Beirut on Friday during which he voiced support for a truce in Lebanon acceptable to Hezbollah, "simultaneously with a ceasefire in Gaza". He travelled to Syria's capital by air after Lebanon said an Israeli air strike on Friday severed the main international highway linking the two countries. Israel said the strike aimed to prevent the flow of weapons to Hezbollah from neighbouring Syria. Iran has been a staunch ally of Assad throughout the civil war that erupted in 2011 following the suppression of anti-government protests. Earlier on Saturday, Assad's office quoted him as saying Iran's missile attack on Israel was "a strong response and taught the Zionist entity a lesson". The attack came just days after an Israeli air strike in southern Beirut killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Iranian foreign minister warns 'even stronger' reaction to any Israeli attack

Japan's new Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba warned in his first policy speech on Friday that “today’s Ukraine could be tomorrow’s East Asia”. “Combined with the situation in the Middle East, the international community is becoming increasingly divided and confrontational,” said Ishiba.

Japan PM Ishiba Warns ‘Today’s Ukraine Could Be Tomorrow’s East Asia’

Republican US House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson sidestepped a question on Sunday (October 6) on whether he accepted that Donald Trump lost to Democratic President Joe Biden in the 2020 election, giving a response similar to that from the former president's running mate in the vice-presidential debate.

Republican US House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson sidestepped a question on Sunday (October 6) on whether he accepted that Donald Trump lost to Democratic President Joe Biden in the 2020 election, giving a response similar to that from the former president's running mate in the vice-presidential debate. Trump, who lost to Biden in 2020 and falsely claimed the elections were unfair, is once again the Republican Party's presidential candidate and faces Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in the Nov. 5 elections. Polls show a tight race. "You want us to litigate things that happened four years ago when we are talking about the future," Johnson said in a confrontational interview on ABC News on Sunday. Also read: Netanyahu, Macron hold talks less than 24 hours after arms embargo call "We are not going to talk about what happened in 2020, we are going to talk about 2024," Johnson said. He added: "Joe Biden has been the president for almost four years. Everybody needs to get over this and move forward." In Tuesday's vice-presidential debate, Senator JD Vance, Trump's running mate, also sidestepped the question. Johnson also refused to condemn the former president's suggestion that the Republican presidential candidate's political opponents may be behind attempts to have him killed. Trump survived an assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania on July 13. He also escaped an assassination attempt in September that was thwarted by a U.S. Secret Service agent patrolling Trump's Florida golf course. Investigators have found no evidence of the involvement of Trump's political opponents in the ongoing probes. Also read: Israel: Woman killed, 10 wounded in terror attack at Beersheba bus station Johnson was also asked if he would help in certifying the 2024 election results if Trump lost. "I'm going to follow the Constitution. ... Congress has a very specific role and we must fulfill it," he said. Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol in an unsuccessful attempt to prevent the congressional certification of the results of the 2020 elections. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson dodges question on 2020 election, refuses to admit Trump lost

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke to French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (Oct 6) evening and told him that placing an arms embargo on Tel Aviv would only serve Iran and its proxies.&nbsp;

The phone call came less than 24 hours after Macron called for a halt in delivery of arms to Israel for use in Gaza, which provoked a sharp response from the Israeli PM who termed it a 'shame'.&nbsp;

"Just as Iran supports all parts of the Iranian terror axis, so are Israel's friends expected to support it, and not impose restrictions that will only strengthen the Iranian axis of evil," Netanyahu told Macron, a statement from his office read.

The Israeli PM justified his military's action in Lebanon stating that Hezbollah's elimination was essential for better regional stability and allow&nbsp;Israelis in the north to return to their homes.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Hezbollah's backer, Iran, launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles on major Israeli cities, prompting the entire 10 million population of the country to seek refuge in bomb shelters.&nbsp;

Consequently, on the eve of the October 7 attacks, Israel pounded southern Beirut with heavy airstrikes with a retaliatory action against Iran anticipated by many. Tehran even announced cancellation of all flights till Monday (Oct 7) morning, citing "operational limitations".&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Francophone Nations Call for 'Immediate' Ceasefire in Lebanon

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<h2>Paris will not back off</h2>

Meanwhile, Macron's office said the president acknowledged&nbsp;their differences in opinion but indicated that the French leader will not back off his&nbsp;opposition to arms sales to Jerusalem.

"On the eve of the first anniversary of the Hamas terrorist offensive against Israel, he expressed the solidarity of the French people with the Israeli people," the French presidency said.

"Like everyone, Israel has the right to defend itself against terrorism. Attacks against Israel and its citizens must cease, whether they are carried out by Iran or its proxies in the region.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-yahya-sinwar-ceases-contact-with-qatari-mediators-fearing-for-his-life-report-764971">Also read |&nbsp;Fearing for his life, Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar ceases contact with Qatari mediators: Report</a>

Macron added that “the time for a ceasefire had now come".&nbsp;

“The arms deliveries, the prolongation of the war in Gaza and its extension to Lebanon cannot produce the security expected by the Israelis and by everyone in the region,” he added.&nbsp;

<h2>What did Netanyahu say earlier?&nbsp;</h2>

In a&nbsp;video statement on Saturday, Netanyahu had attacked Macron and called him out for not supporting Israel.&nbsp;

"As Israel fights the forces of barbarism led by Iran, all civilised countries should be standing firmly by Israel’s side," Netanyahu said. "Yet President Macron and other Western leaders are now calling for arms embargoes against Israel. Shame on them."

Netanyahu sought to highlight the hypocrisy in the calls for a pause on arms shipments to Israel, asking whether Iran had restricted weapons to its allies.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke to French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (Oct 6) evening and told him that placing an arms embargo on Tel Aviv would only serve Iran and its proxies.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke to French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (Oct 6) evening and told him that placing an arms embargo on Tel Aviv would only serve Iran and its proxies. The phone call came less than 24 hours after Macron called for a halt in delivery of arms to Israel for use in Gaza, which provoked a sharp response from the Israeli PM who termed it a 'shame'. "Just as Iran supports all parts of the Iranian terror axis, so are Israel's friends expected to support it, and not impose restrictions that will only strengthen the Iranian axis of evil," Netanyahu told Macron, a statement from his office read. The Israeli PM justified his military's action in Lebanon stating that Hezbollah's elimination was essential for better regional stability and allow Israelis in the north to return to their homes. Earlier this week, Hezbollah's backer, Iran, launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles on major Israeli cities, prompting the entire 10 million population of the country to seek refuge in bomb shelters. Consequently, on the eve of the October 7 attacks, Israel pounded southern Beirut with heavy airstrikes with a retaliatory action against Iran anticipated by many. Tehran even announced cancellation of all flights till Monday (Oct 7) morning, citing "operational limitations". Watch | Francophone Nations Call for 'Immediate' Ceasefire in Lebanon × Paris will not back off Meanwhile, Macron's office said the president acknowledged their differences in opinion but indicated that the French leader will not back off his opposition to arms sales to Jerusalem. "On the eve of the first anniversary of the Hamas terrorist offensive against Israel, he expressed the solidarity of the French people with the Israeli people," the French presidency said. "Like everyone, Israel has the right to defend itself against terrorism. Attacks against Israel and its citizens must cease, whether they are carried out by Iran or its proxies in the region.” Also read | Fearing for his life, Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar ceases contact with Qatari mediators: Report Macron added that “the time for a ceasefire had now come". “The arms deliveries, the prolongation of the war in Gaza and its extension to Lebanon cannot produce the security expected by the Israelis and by everyone in the region,” he added. What did Netanyahu say earlier? In a video statement on Saturday, Netanyahu had attacked Macron and called him out for not supporting Israel. "As Israel fights the forces of barbarism led by Iran, all civilised countries should be standing firmly by Israel’s side," Netanyahu said. "Yet President Macron and other Western leaders are now calling for arms embargoes against Israel. Shame on them." Netanyahu sought to highlight the hypocrisy in the calls for a pause on arms shipments to Israel, asking whether Iran had restricted weapons to its allies. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu speaks to Macron less than 24 hours after France's call for arms embargo on Israel

Esmail Qaani, commander of the Quds Force in Iran's Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) is allegedly missing and was last seen in Beirut about a week ago. Though Iranian media has remained quiet on his location, some reports from Turkish and Israeli outlets have speculated that Qaani may be dead.

Esmail Qaani, commander of the Quds Force in Iran's Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) is allegedly missing and was last seen in Beirut about a week ago. Though Iranian media has remained quiet on his location, some reports from Turkish and Israeli outlets have speculated that Qaani may be dead. Qaani was reportedly in Beirut to provide support to Hezbollah, following a string of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) airstrikes that killed many Hezbollah fighters. Qaani has not been seen after Israeli attacks in Beirut last Friday, The New York Times also reported these claims, citing anonymous officials from Iran's IRGC, but no formal confirmation of Qaani’s death has come from Iranian authorities. Also read: Fearing for his life, Hamas chief ceases contact with Qatari officials: Report Reports also suggest that the Israeli airstrikes in the Dahiyeh area, located in southern Beirut, targeted Hashem Safieddine, who was said to be the potential successor to Hezbollah’s leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. Safieddine has also reportedly been unreachable since the strikes. According to Israeli news outlet N12, Qaani may have been present in Dahiyeh during the airstrikes and possibly injured. Another Israeli news source, Channel 12, reported that Lebanese officials confirmed Qaani’s death, although the Israeli military (IDF) has not yet officially said anything about the strike that might have killed him. Also read: Israel: Woman killed, 10 wounded in terror attack at Beersheba bus station There are also reports suggesting that Qaani was put under high surveillance, following Iran’s missile attacks on October 1, raising concerns about Israeli actions against him. Some Saudi news channels have speculated that Iran itself might have executed Qaani, suspecting him of collaborating with Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad. Qaani’s absence was noted during Friday prayers led by Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. Esmail Qaani took over leadership of Iran’s foreign operations after Qassem Soleimani, who was killed by a US drone strike in Baghdad in January 2020. Following Soleimani’s death, Qaani became a key figure in directing Iran’s military activities in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Quds Force chief Esmail Qaani reported missing after Israeli airstrikes in Beirut

Iran's aviation body on Sunday announced the cancellation of all flights till Monday morning, citing "operational limitations", state media reported as Israel vows to retaliate for the Iranian missile strike days ago.

Because of the restrictions, "the flights will be cancelled from 21:00 tonight (1730 GMT), Sunday, October 6, until 6:00 am tomorrow, October 7," reported the&nbsp;IRNA state news agency, citing Iran's Civil Aviation Organisation spokesman, Jafar Yazarloo.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-nuclear-devastation-looms-over-iran-israel-764302">Watch |&nbsp;Iran-Israel War: Nuclear Devastation Looms Over Iran, Israel</a>

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Iran on Tuesday launched around 200 missiles in its second direct attack on Israel, in what it said was retaliation for the killing of Tehran-aligned militant leaders in the region, along with a general in Iran's Revolutionary Guards.

Ever since then, Israel has said that it will respond to Iran's attack.

On Tuesday night, Iran closed its airspace for less than two days until Thursday morning.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-can-encourage-israel-to-de-escalate-iran-ambassador-iraj-elahi-764846">Also read |&nbsp;India can encourage Israel to de escalate: Iran Ambassador Iraj Elahi</a>

The aviation body announced then that both domestic and international flights were grounded for security reasons until the reopening.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has advised European airlines to avoid Iranian airspace until October 31, with the situation under ongoing review.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

&nbsp;

Iran's aviation body on Sunday announced the cancellation of all flights till Monday morning, citing "operational limitations", state media reported as Israel vows to retaliate for the Iranian missile strike days ago.

Iran's aviation body on Sunday announced the cancellation of all flights till Monday morning, citing "operational limitations", state media reported as Israel vows to retaliate for the Iranian missile strike days ago. Because of the restrictions, "the flights will be cancelled from 21:00 tonight (1730 GMT), Sunday, October 6, until 6:00 am tomorrow, October 7," reported the IRNA state news agency, citing Iran's Civil Aviation Organisation spokesman, Jafar Yazarloo. Watch | Iran-Israel War: Nuclear Devastation Looms Over Iran, Israel × Iran on Tuesday launched around 200 missiles in its second direct attack on Israel, in what it said was retaliation for the killing of Tehran-aligned militant leaders in the region, along with a general in Iran's Revolutionary Guards. Ever since then, Israel has said that it will respond to Iran's attack. On Tuesday night, Iran closed its airspace for less than two days until Thursday morning. Also read | India can encourage Israel to de escalate: Iran Ambassador Iraj Elahi The aviation body announced then that both domestic and international flights were grounded for security reasons until the reopening. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has advised European airlines to avoid Iranian airspace until October 31, with the situation under ongoing review. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Iran suspends all flights till Monday morning amid anticipation of Israeli reprisal over missile attack

Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille embarked on a trip to the United Arab Emirates and Kenya on Saturday to seek security assistance in the aftermath of one of deadliest gang attacks in the Caribbean nation in recent years.

Haiti is reeling after members of the Gran Grif gang stormed through the town of Pont-Sonde in the western Artibonite region early on Thursday, killing at least 70 people, including infants, and forcing over 6,000 residents to flee.

The massacre caused widespread shock even in a country that has grown accustomed to outbreaks of violence, and where the national police force is outgunned and understaffed.

"As you can see, we are being attacked on several fronts," Conille said in a press conference before the trip.

Last week, the UN&nbsp;Security Council authorized for another year an international security force that is intended to help local police fight gangs and provide law and order.

So far, the mission has made little progress helping Haiti restore order with only about 400 mostly Kenyan police officers on the ground.

"One of the aims of this trip is to go to Kenya to discuss with President Ruto how we can speed up the deployment of remnants of the Kenyan troops as quickly as possible to continue supporting the national police force," Conille said.

Conille said he would discuss with his counterpart in the United Arab Emirates "how we can find regular flows to help the Haitian national police to combat&nbsp;security."

On Friday, Conille, flanked by heavily armed police, visited patients at a hospital who were being treated for injuries from Thursday's attack. He promised reinforcements were en route from the capital, Port-au-Prince.

A spokesperson for Haiti's national police told Reuters on Friday evening that the director of police in charge of the Artibonite department had been replaced.

Gran Grif is the largest gang in Haiti's Artibonite department, according to security analysts. The region is home to many of Haiti's rice fields.

The gang's leader Luckson Elan said the attack was in retaliation for civilians remaining passive while police and vigilante groups killed his soldiers.

This week's killings were the latest sign of a worsening conflict in Haiti, where armed gangs control most of Port-au-Prince and are expanding to nearby regions, fueling hunger and making hundreds of thousands homeless. Promised international support still lags and nearby nations have deported migrants back to the country.

The number of people internally displaced by the conflict has meanwhile surged past 700,000, nearly doubling in six months.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille embarked on a trip to the United Arab Emirates and Kenya on Saturday to seek security assistance in the aftermath of one of deadliest gang attacks in the Caribbean nation in recent years.

Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille embarked on a trip to the United Arab Emirates and Kenya on Saturday to seek security assistance in the aftermath of one of deadliest gang attacks in the Caribbean nation in recent years. Haiti is reeling after members of the Gran Grif gang stormed through the town of Pont-Sonde in the western Artibonite region early on Thursday, killing at least 70 people, including infants, and forcing over 6,000 residents to flee. The massacre caused widespread shock even in a country that has grown accustomed to outbreaks of violence, and where the national police force is outgunned and understaffed. "As you can see, we are being attacked on several fronts," Conille said in a press conference before the trip. Last week, the UN Security Council authorized for another year an international security force that is intended to help local police fight gangs and provide law and order. So far, the mission has made little progress helping Haiti restore order with only about 400 mostly Kenyan police officers on the ground. "One of the aims of this trip is to go to Kenya to discuss with President Ruto how we can speed up the deployment of remnants of the Kenyan troops as quickly as possible to continue supporting the national police force," Conille said. Conille said he would discuss with his counterpart in the United Arab Emirates "how we can find regular flows to help the Haitian national police to combat security." On Friday, Conille, flanked by heavily armed police, visited patients at a hospital who were being treated for injuries from Thursday's attack. He promised reinforcements were en route from the capital, Port-au-Prince. A spokesperson for Haiti's national police told Reuters on Friday evening that the director of police in charge of the Artibonite department had been replaced. Gran Grif is the largest gang in Haiti's Artibonite department, according to security analysts. The region is home to many of Haiti's rice fields. The gang's leader Luckson Elan said the attack was in retaliation for civilians remaining passive while police and vigilante groups killed his soldiers. This week's killings were the latest sign of a worsening conflict in Haiti, where armed gangs control most of Port-au-Prince and are expanding to nearby regions, fueling hunger and making hundreds of thousands homeless. Promised international support still lags and nearby nations have deported migrants back to the country. The number of people internally displaced by the conflict has meanwhile surged past 700,000, nearly doubling in six months. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Haiti PM goes abroad to seek security assistance following gang attacks in his nation

A 25-year-old woman was killed while 10 others were wounded after shots were heard at the&nbsp;Beersheba central bus station in southern Israel on Sunday (Oct 6), according to a report in&nbsp;Jerusalem Post. The police classified the incident as a terror strike, adding that the attacker had been eliminated. In other news, days after drugs worth $667 million were recovered in the national capital of Delhi, the authorities have seized&nbsp;a large quantity of MD (mephedrone) drug&nbsp;and raw material used to make them, valued at Rs 1,814 crore ($215 million) from a factory near the central Indian city of Bhopal in the state of Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;

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A 25-year-old woman was killed while 10 others were wounded after shots were heard at the&nbsp;Beersheba central bus station in southern Israel on Sunday (Oct 6), according to a report in&nbsp;Jerusalem Post. The police classified the incident as a terror strike, adding that the attacker had been eliminated.&nbsp;

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Days after drugs worth $667 million were recovered in the national capital of Delhi, the authorities have seized&nbsp;a large quantity of MD (mephedrone) drug&nbsp;and raw material used to make them, valued at Rs 1,814 crore ($215 million) from a factory near the central Indian city of Bhopal in the state of Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;

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India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar has slammed the United Nations (UN) for being a bystander when it comes to international affairs while stating that the international organisation was behaving like an "old company, not entirely keeping up with the market but still occupying the space".

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Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar has gone underground and is not even communicating with the Qatari mediators, according to a report in&nbsp;N12, citing Qatari officials, who told the families of the hostages of the current situation.&nbsp;

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Sue Gray announced her resignation from her role as Sir Keir Starmer's chief of staff on Sunday, October 6th, explaining that she "risked becoming a distraction."

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Iran's aviation body on Sunday announced the cancellation of flights at some of the country's airports, citing "operational restrictions", state media reported as Israel vows to retaliate for an Iranian missile strike.

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At least three people lost their lives due to suffocation while attending the air show organised by the Indian Air Force (IAF) in the southern city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu on Sunday (Oct 6). The incident took place at the popular Marina Beach where IAF was marking the 92nd anniversary of the forces, instituted in 1932.&nbsp;

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The state of West Bengal is in turmoil after the tragic discovery of a 10-year-old girl’s body in a canal in Kultali, located in South 24 Parganas, on Saturday (October 6). Following a day of widespread protests, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that the rape and murder case in Kultali would be filed under the POCSO Act, with a promise to bring the perpetrators to justice within three months.

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Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh's Dil-Luminati Tour concert in London was a star-studded gig. Other than his thousands of fans, Pakistani star Hania Aamir, rapper Badshah and Bollywood actor Gajraj Rao attended the show at the O2 Arena on Saturday evening.

A 25-year-old woman was killed while 10 others were wounded after shots were heard at the Beersheba central bus station in southern Israel on Sunday (Oct 6), according to a report in Jerusalem Post.

A 25-year-old woman was killed while 10 others were wounded after shots were heard at the Beersheba central bus station in southern Israel on Sunday (Oct 6), according to a report in Jerusalem Post. The police classified the incident as a terror strike, adding that the attacker had been eliminated. In other news, days after drugs worth $667 million were recovered in the national capital of Delhi, the authorities have seized a large quantity of MD (mephedrone) drug and raw material used to make them, valued at Rs 1,814 crore ($215 million) from a factory near the central Indian city of Bhopal in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Click on the headlines to read more Israel: Woman killed, 10 wounded in terror attack at Beersheba bus station A 25-year-old woman was killed while 10 others were wounded after shots were heard at the Beersheba central bus station in southern Israel on Sunday (Oct 6), according to a report in Jerusalem Post. The police classified the incident as a terror strike, adding that the attacker had been eliminated. Drugs worth $215mn seized in India's Bhopal, days after $667mn bust in Delhi Days after drugs worth $667 million were recovered in the national capital of Delhi, the authorities have seized a large quantity of MD (mephedrone) drug and raw material used to make them, valued at Rs 1,814 crore ($215 million) from a factory near the central Indian city of Bhopal in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Jaishankar tears into UN, calls it 'bystander' for not stepping up on issues India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar has slammed the United Nations (UN) for being a bystander when it comes to international affairs while stating that the international organisation was behaving like an "old company, not entirely keeping up with the market but still occupying the space". Fearing for his life, Hamas chief ceases contact with Qatari officials: Report Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar has gone underground and is not even communicating with the Qatari mediators, according to a report in N12, citing Qatari officials, who told the families of the hostages of the current situation. UK: Starmer's chief of staff Sue Gray steps down; set to assist PM in new role Sue Gray announced her resignation from her role as Sir Keir Starmer's chief of staff on Sunday, October 6th, explaining that she "risked becoming a distraction." Iran suspends flights at some airports, anticipating Israeli retaliatory response Iran's aviation body on Sunday announced the cancellation of flights at some of the country's airports, citing "operational restrictions", state media reported as Israel vows to retaliate for an Iranian missile strike. At least 3 spectators die, over 200 faint at Marina Beach during IAF air show At least three people lost their lives due to suffocation while attending the air show organised by the Indian Air Force (IAF) in the southern city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu on Sunday (Oct 6). The incident took place at the popular Marina Beach where IAF was marking the 92nd anniversary of the forces, instituted in 1932. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee says culprits will be punished amid protests over Kultali girl's death The state of West Bengal is in turmoil after the tragic discovery of a 10-year-old girl’s body in a canal in Kultali, located in South 24 Parganas, on Saturday (October 6). Following a day of widespread protests, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that the rape and murder case in Kultali would be filed under the POCSO Act, with a promise to bring the perpetrators to justice within three months. IND vs BAN, 1st T20I: New-look India dismantle Bangladesh convincingly India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets in the first T20I in Gwalior on Sunday (Oct 6) to take a 1-0 lead in the three-T20I series. India made short work of the 128-run target, reaching their in about 12 overs. Diljit Dosanjh bows in front of actor Gajraj Rao at London show: Watch video Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh's Dil-Luminati Tour concert in London was a star-studded gig. Other than his thousands of fans, Pakistani star Hania Aamir, rapper Badshah and Bollywood actor Gajraj Rao attended the show at the O2 Arena on Saturday evening.

Top 10 world news: 1 killed, 10 wounded in terror attack in Israel; Drugs worth $215mn seized in India, & more

Donald Trump returned on Saturday to the Pennsylvania fairgrounds where he was nearly assassinated in July, urging a large crowd to deliver an Election Day victory that he tied to his survival of the shooting.

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Police in Pakistan’s capital Islamabad, used teargas during clashes with the supporters of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, during an anti-government rally in defiance of a ban on public gatherings in the city on Friday.

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Gaza, a densely populated coastal enclave, has faced immense challenges, especially over the past year. The ongoing conflict and blockade have led to a humanitarian crisis, with limited access to essential resources like food, water, and medical supplies.

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Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar has gone underground and is not even communicating with the Qatari mediators, according to a report in N12, citing Qatari officials, who told the families of the hostages of the current situation.&nbsp;

The Qatari officials involved in the negotiations said they believed that Sinwar had surrounded himself with the hostages and ceased communication via phones due to the&nbsp;recent spate of eliminations.&nbsp;

"Sinwar is currently not communicating with us. He has disappeared for us too and has not made contact," the officials were cited as saying by the Israeli news outlet.&nbsp;

The Qatari officials also claimed that Israel's elimination of Hamas leadership had made a hostage-ceasefire deal more challenging.

"Israel adopted a policy of eliminations that worsened the deal," the officials reportedly said, adding, "In the past, there was [Hamas's political bureau chief Ismail] Haniyeh, and he was eliminated. Now there is Khaled Mashaal, and he is much more difficult, Haniyeh."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-conflict-nasrallahs-death-a-heavy-blow-to-hezbollah-763038" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Nasrallah's Death a Heavy Blow To Hezbollah</a>

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<h2>Israel avoids eliminating Sinwar</h2>

Reports also claimed that Israeli security agencies had the opportunity to eliminate Sinwar but decided against it, fearing for the lives of the hostages who are being used as human shields by the Hamas chief.&nbsp;

The report comes in the backdrop of reports claiming that Tel Aviv was investigating the possibility of Sinwar being dead as he was incommunicado for a relatively long time.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-yahya-sinwar-evading-israelis-by-dressing-as-woman-to-hide-in-plain-sight-report-754530">Also read |&nbsp;Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar evading Israelis by 'dressing as woman' to hide in plain sight: Report</a>

Notably, Sinwar succeeded&nbsp;Ismail Haniyeh as Hamas chief after the latter was assassinated in Iran. Haniyeh was allegedly neutralised by Israel using an explosive device that was smuggled into the guesthouse he was staying at&nbsp;in Tehran.&nbsp;

Alongside now-killed Mohammed Deif, the head of&nbsp;Qassam Brigades, Sinwar planned the October 7 attacks, whose foundations were set in place after IDF carried out a raid on Al Aqsa mosque in May 2021.&nbsp;

Tel Aviv has reiterated that Sinwar's death might be the final nail in the coffin for Hamas which has faced significant losses in its top hierarchy in the recent weeks.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Israel-Hamas war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar has gone underground and is not even communicating with the Qatari mediators, according to a report in N12, citing Qatari officials, who told the families of the hostages of the current situation.

Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar has gone underground and is not even communicating with the Qatari mediators, according to a report in N12, citing Qatari officials, who told the families of the hostages of the current situation. The Qatari officials involved in the negotiations said they believed that Sinwar had surrounded himself with the hostages and ceased communication via phones due to the recent spate of eliminations. "Sinwar is currently not communicating with us. He has disappeared for us too and has not made contact," the officials were cited as saying by the Israeli news outlet. The Qatari officials also claimed that Israel's elimination of Hamas leadership had made a hostage-ceasefire deal more challenging. "Israel adopted a policy of eliminations that worsened the deal," the officials reportedly said, adding, "In the past, there was [Hamas's political bureau chief Ismail] Haniyeh, and he was eliminated. Now there is Khaled Mashaal, and he is much more difficult, Haniyeh." Watch | Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Nasrallah's Death a Heavy Blow To Hezbollah Israel avoids eliminating Sinwar Reports also claimed that Israeli security agencies had the opportunity to eliminate Sinwar but decided against it, fearing for the lives of the hostages who are being used as human shields by the Hamas chief. The report comes in the backdrop of reports claiming that Tel Aviv was investigating the possibility of Sinwar being dead as he was incommunicado for a relatively long time. Also read | Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar evading Israelis by 'dressing as woman' to hide in plain sight: Report Notably, Sinwar succeeded Ismail Haniyeh as Hamas chief after the latter was assassinated in Iran. Haniyeh was allegedly neutralised by Israel using an explosive device that was smuggled into the guesthouse he was staying at in Tehran. Alongside now-killed Mohammed Deif, the head of Qassam Brigades, Sinwar planned the October 7 attacks, whose foundations were set in place after IDF carried out a raid on Al Aqsa mosque in May 2021. Tel Aviv has reiterated that Sinwar's death might be the final nail in the coffin for Hamas which has faced significant losses in its top hierarchy in the recent weeks. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Israel-Hamas war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Fearing for his life, Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar ceases contact with Qatari mediators: Report

A large number of Palestinian families were displaced in Jabalia in northern Gaza after a number of tanks entered the area and the Israeli army asked residents to evacuate their homes, following a bombing operation overnight and at dawn on Sunday (October 6).

Palestinian health officials said at least 20 people had been killed since Saturday (October 5) night in northern Gaza, after the army sent tanks into areas there for the first time in months and urged residents to leave.

The Hamas-run Gaza government media office said a further 26 people were killed and 93 others wounded when Israeli airstrikes hit a mosque and a school sheltering displaced people

The army on Saturday issued new evacuation orders in parts of Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip, just north of Deir al-Balah, forcing hundreds of families to leave their houses. The military statement said its forces aimed to operate against Hamas militants who waged attacks from the territory.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah War: New Details Emerge on Mossad's Pager and Walkie-talkie Operations

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The Israeli military said its forces had encircled the area of Jabalia, the focus of its operations.

The strikes and incursion into northern Gaza came as the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas approaches its first anniversary, and as Israel has been expanding its actions in Lebanon.

Hamas attacked southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and taking about 250 as hostages, according to Israeli tallies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-yahya-sinwar-ceases-contact-with-qatari-mediators-fearing-for-his-life-report-764971">Also read |&nbsp;Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar ceases contact with Qatari mediators, fearing for his life: Report</a>

Israel's subsequent military assault on Gaza has killed nearly 42,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry. It has also displaced nearly all of the enclave's 2.3 million people, caused a hunger crisis and led to genocide allegations at the World Court that Israel denies.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A large number of Palestinian families were displaced in Jabalia in northern Gaza after a number of tanks entered the area and the Israeli army asked residents to evacuate their homes, following a bombing operation overnight and at dawn on Sunday (October 6).

A large number of Palestinian families were displaced in Jabalia in northern Gaza after a number of tanks entered the area and the Israeli army asked residents to evacuate their homes, following a bombing operation overnight and at dawn on Sunday (October 6). Palestinian health officials said at least 20 people had been killed since Saturday (October 5) night in northern Gaza, after the army sent tanks into areas there for the first time in months and urged residents to leave. The Hamas-run Gaza government media office said a further 26 people were killed and 93 others wounded when Israeli airstrikes hit a mosque and a school sheltering displaced people The army on Saturday issued new evacuation orders in parts of Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip, just north of Deir al-Balah, forcing hundreds of families to leave their houses. The military statement said its forces aimed to operate against Hamas militants who waged attacks from the territory. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah War: New Details Emerge on Mossad's Pager and Walkie-talkie Operations × The Israeli military said its forces had encircled the area of Jabalia, the focus of its operations. The strikes and incursion into northern Gaza came as the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas approaches its first anniversary, and as Israel has been expanding its actions in Lebanon. Hamas attacked southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and taking about 250 as hostages, according to Israeli tallies. Also read | Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar ceases contact with Qatari mediators, fearing for his life: Report Israel's subsequent military assault on Gaza has killed nearly 42,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry. It has also displaced nearly all of the enclave's 2.3 million people, caused a hunger crisis and led to genocide allegations at the World Court that Israel denies. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israeli military launches fresh ground offensive in Gaza's Jabalia refugee camp on eve of Oct 7 attacks

Hamas's multipronged attack on southern Israel on&nbsp;October&nbsp;7&nbsp;was unprecedented in scale. The panic and confusion it caused made many details of what was happening difficult to establish immediately.

Nearly one year later, the confirmed death toll, which includes hostages killed in captivity, now stands at 1,205.

Here is a blow-by-blow timeline of Israel's deadliest day.

<h2>Caught by surprise</h2>

At 6:29 am (0329 GMT), the Israeli army detected thousands of rockets being fired from the Gaza Strip towards Israeli border communities.

Palestinian militant group Hamas, which rules Gaza, said it had launched about 5,000 projectiles in an offensive dubbed "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood", a reference to the mosque in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem that is Islam's third-holiest site.

Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system kicked in but was quickly overwhelmed by the amount of incoming fire.

At the same time, Hamas fighters -- the group would later say they numbered 1,200 -- stormed across the border on motorbikes, in pickup trucks and even in motorised paragliders.

They used explosives and bulldozers to break through the fence separating Gaza from Israel and attacked nearly 50 different sites, including kibbutzim communities, army bases and a music festival.

Militants killed festival-goers en masse and went door-to-door in farming communities, shooting residents dead in their homes.

In March, a United Nations report acknowledged there were "reasonable grounds to believe" that rapes were committed during the attack. It also found "clear and convincing information" that some hostages taken on that day had been raped.

<h2>Slow army response</h2>

By 8:30 am, the militants had stormed six military bases: Erez at the northern end of the Gaza Strip, Nahal Oz opposite Gaza City, two others near the Beeri kibbutz, one in Reim near central Gaza and two in the south close to the Egyptian border.

Residents of kibbutzim near Gaza were forced to fight the attackers on their own for hours, as the military was slow to come to their aid.

They would later describe cowering in safe rooms as militants tried to break down the doors, or taking whatever arms they had and rushing out to try to repel the assault.

At the Nova music festival, where nearly 3,000 people had gathered in fields and woods a few kilometres (miles) from central Gaza, militants went on an hour-long rampage that killed at least 370 people.

In kibbutz Beeri, one of the worst-hit communities, the first individual Israeli reinforcements came to help "from 13:30 onwards", an army report later said.

A full army division arrived at 4:15 pm to organise a coordinated evacuation of survivors and retake control of the kibbutz.

The military announced at around 6:00 pm that both soldiers and civilians had been seized by Hamas attackers and taken into Gaza.

<h2>Taken&nbsp;as hostages</h2>

A total of 251 people in Israel were taken hostage on&nbsp;October&nbsp;7, including 44 from the Nova festival and at least 74 from kibbutz Nir Oz.

Some, including soldiers, were already dead and their bodies were taken into Gaza, the army has said.

Some hostages may have fallen to friendly fire, including in kibbutz Beeri, where witnesses told Israeli media a tank fired at a house in which 14 people were being held by Hamas.

The order may have been an instance of the "Hannibal Directive", which Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported was applied at least three times that day.

This measure allows for the use of force to prevent soldiers from being captured.

<h2>We're at war</h2>

At 11:34 am, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered an almost unprecedented televised address on the rest day of Shabbat, declaring: "We are at war."

In the afternoon, the military called up 360,000 reservists to bolster an army that otherwise boasts 170,000 personnel, a mix of those performing mandatory service and career soldiers.

Israel quickly began a relentless bombardment of Gaza, the tiny Palestinian coastal territory home to 2.4 million people that has been ruled by Hamas since 2007.

An AFP journalist reported the first strike in Gaza at 10:39 am that day. Since then, the territory has been devastated by relentless air strikes.

Israel's retaliatory military offensive since&nbsp;October&nbsp;7&nbsp;has killed at least 41,788 people in Gaza, a majority of them civilians, according to data provided by the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. The UN has called the figures reliable.

As night fell on&nbsp;October&nbsp;7, the search continued for any gunmen still inside Israel, with terrified civilians locked inside their homes and many streets deserted.

On&nbsp;October&nbsp;10, the military said it had taken back control of all territory attacked by the militants.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Hamas's multipronged attack on southern Israel on October 7 was unprecedented in scale. The panic and confusion it caused made many details of what was happening difficult to establish immediately.

Hamas's multipronged attack on southern Israel on October 7 was unprecedented in scale. The panic and confusion it caused made many details of what was happening difficult to establish immediately. Nearly one year later, the confirmed death toll, which includes hostages killed in captivity, now stands at 1,205. Here is a blow-by-blow timeline of Israel's deadliest day. Caught by surprise At 6:29 am (0329 GMT), the Israeli army detected thousands of rockets being fired from the Gaza Strip towards Israeli border communities. Palestinian militant group Hamas, which rules Gaza, said it had launched about 5,000 projectiles in an offensive dubbed "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood", a reference to the mosque in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem that is Islam's third-holiest site. Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system kicked in but was quickly overwhelmed by the amount of incoming fire. At the same time, Hamas fighters -- the group would later say they numbered 1,200 -- stormed across the border on motorbikes, in pickup trucks and even in motorised paragliders. They used explosives and bulldozers to break through the fence separating Gaza from Israel and attacked nearly 50 different sites, including kibbutzim communities, army bases and a music festival. Militants killed festival-goers en masse and went door-to-door in farming communities, shooting residents dead in their homes. In March, a United Nations report acknowledged there were "reasonable grounds to believe" that rapes were committed during the attack. It also found "clear and convincing information" that some hostages taken on that day had been raped. Slow army response By 8:30 am, the militants had stormed six military bases: Erez at the northern end of the Gaza Strip, Nahal Oz opposite Gaza City, two others near the Beeri kibbutz, one in Reim near central Gaza and two in the south close to the Egyptian border. Residents of kibbutzim near Gaza were forced to fight the attackers on their own for hours, as the military was slow to come to their aid. They would later describe cowering in safe rooms as militants tried to break down the doors, or taking whatever arms they had and rushing out to try to repel the assault. At the Nova music festival, where nearly 3,000 people had gathered in fields and woods a few kilometres (miles) from central Gaza, militants went on an hour-long rampage that killed at least 370 people. In kibbutz Beeri, one of the worst-hit communities, the first individual Israeli reinforcements came to help "from 13:30 onwards", an army report later said. A full army division arrived at 4:15 pm to organise a coordinated evacuation of survivors and retake control of the kibbutz. The military announced at around 6:00 pm that both soldiers and civilians had been seized by Hamas attackers and taken into Gaza. Taken as hostages A total of 251 people in Israel were taken hostage on October 7, including 44 from the Nova festival and at least 74 from kibbutz Nir Oz. Some, including soldiers, were already dead and their bodies were taken into Gaza, the army has said. Some hostages may have fallen to friendly fire, including in kibbutz Beeri, where witnesses told Israeli media a tank fired at a house in which 14 people were being held by Hamas. The order may have been an instance of the "Hannibal Directive", which Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported was applied at least three times that day. This measure allows for the use of force to prevent soldiers from being captured. We're at war At 11:34 am, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered an almost unprecedented televised address on the rest day of Shabbat, declaring: "We are at war." In the afternoon, the military called up 360,000 reservists to bolster an army that otherwise boasts 170,000 personnel, a mix of those performing mandatory service and career soldiers. Israel quickly began a relentless bombardment of Gaza, the tiny Palestinian coastal territory home to 2.4 million people that has been ruled by Hamas since 2007. An AFP journalist reported the first strike in Gaza at 10:39 am that day. Since then, the territory has been devastated by relentless air strikes. Israel's retaliatory military offensive since October 7 has killed at least 41,788 people in Gaza, a majority of them civilians, according to data provided by the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. The UN has called the figures reliable. As night fell on October 7, the search continued for any gunmen still inside Israel, with terrified civilians locked inside their homes and many streets deserted. On October 10, the military said it had taken back control of all territory attacked by the militants. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israel-Hamas war: How October 7, 2023, became Israel's deadliest day

Sue Gray announced her resignation from her role as Sir Keir Starmer's chief of staff on Sunday, October 6th, explaining that she "risked becoming a distraction."

Gray, a former civil servant, said that she has accepted a new position as the Prime Minister’s envoy for the regions and nations after serving in Downing Street for three months. Morgan McSweeney will take over her role.

Gray said, “After leading the Labour Party’s preparation for government and kickstarting work on our programme for change, I am looking forward to drawing on my experience to support the Prime Minister and the Cabinet to help deliver the government’s objectives across the nations and regions of the UK.”

She added, “Throughout my career, my first interest has always been public service. However, in recent weeks it has become clear to me that intense commentary around my position risked becoming a distraction to the government’s vital work of change."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dinner-with-kim-jong-un-or-george-soros-indian-eam-jaishankars-witty-reply-wins-internet-764963">Dinner with Kim Jong Un or George Soros? Indian EAM Jaishankar's witty reply wins internet - WATCH</a>

“It is for that reason I have chosen to stand aside, and I look forward to continuing to support the Prime Minister in my new role."

Sir Keir Starmer, in a written statement, thanked Gray, “I want to thank Sue for all the support she has given me, both in opposition and government, and her work to prepare us for government and get us started on our programme of change.”

“Sue has played a vital role in strengthening our relations with the regions and nations. I am delighted that she will continue to support that work,” he added.

Gray’s resignation comes after months of negative briefings while she served as chief of staff, with some within Labour criticising the level of influence she had in Downing Street. Additionally, details of her salary, which was £3,000 more than Sir Keir's, were leaked to the media.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sue Gray announced her resignation from her role as Sir Keir Starmer's chief of staff on Sunday, October 6th, explaining that she "risked becoming a distraction.

Sue Gray announced her resignation from her role as Sir Keir Starmer's chief of staff on Sunday, October 6th, explaining that she "risked becoming a distraction." Gray, a former civil servant, said that she has accepted a new position as the Prime Minister’s envoy for the regions and nations after serving in Downing Street for three months. Morgan McSweeney will take over her role. Gray said, “After leading the Labour Party’s preparation for government and kickstarting work on our programme for change, I am looking forward to drawing on my experience to support the Prime Minister and the Cabinet to help deliver the government’s objectives across the nations and regions of the UK.” She added, “Throughout my career, my first interest has always been public service. However, in recent weeks it has become clear to me that intense commentary around my position risked becoming a distraction to the government’s vital work of change." Also read: Dinner with Kim Jong Un or George Soros? Indian EAM Jaishankar's witty reply wins internet - WATCH “It is for that reason I have chosen to stand aside, and I look forward to continuing to support the Prime Minister in my new role." Sir Keir Starmer, in a written statement, thanked Gray, “I want to thank Sue for all the support she has given me, both in opposition and government, and her work to prepare us for government and get us started on our programme of change.” “Sue has played a vital role in strengthening our relations with the regions and nations. I am delighted that she will continue to support that work,” he added. Gray’s resignation comes after months of negative briefings while she served as chief of staff, with some within Labour criticising the level of influence she had in Downing Street. Additionally, details of her salary, which was £3,000 more than Sir Keir's, were leaked to the media. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Sue Gray steps down as Starmer's chief of staff; set to assist PM in new regional envoy position

A 25-year-old woman was killed while 10 others were wounded after shots were heard at the&nbsp;Beersheba central bus station in southern Israel on Sunday (Oct 6), according to a report in Jerusalem Post. The police classified the incident as a terror strike, adding that the attacker had been eliminated.&nbsp;

The police are&nbsp;currently investigating whether the attack involved both stabbing and gunfire by the terrorist.

"A short time ago a report was received at the police headquarters about a suspected shooting incident at the central station in Beersheva," said a police spokesman in a statement.

"A number of injured on the scene.&nbsp;The terrorist was neutralised at the scene and many police forces of the southern district are at the scene," the statement added.

The Magen David Adom (MDA) ambulance service said its paramedics were providing medical treatment at the scene where several had been wounded with&nbsp;various degrees of injuries.

MDA added it was transferring one person in moderate-to-serious condition, four people in moderate condition, and three individuals who had been lightly wounded, to the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba.

The victim who succumbed to the injuries has been identified as a 25-year-old woman with further details awaited about her.&nbsp;

The terrorist behind the terror attack has been identified as&nbsp;Ahmad al-Uqbi, 29, from a Bedouin hamlet near the town of Lakiya, according to Israeli defense authorities.

Al-Uqbi holds Israeli citizenship and has a criminal record, reported Times of Israel, citing authorities.

According to unconfirmed media reports, he was related to Muhanad Alukabi, who carried out a shooting attack at the same Beersheba bus station in October 2015 when one soldier was killed in the&nbsp;attack.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah War: New Details Emerge on Mossad's Pager and Walkie-talkie Operations

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-war-new-details-emerge-on-mossads-pager-and-walkie-talkie-operations-764946/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>Eve of Oct 7 attacks&nbsp;</h2>

The terror attack comes on the eve of the October 7 attack where Hamas militants entered the Israeli territory and killed 695 Israeli civilians, including 36 children, as well as 373 security forces and 71 foreigners, taking the total to 1,139.

It took more than three days of heavy fighting for the Israeli authorities to regain control which left the country deeply traumatised by violence unseen since the country's formation in 1948.

US, Qatari and Egyptian mediators have tried unsuccessfully for months to reach a Gaza truce and secure the release of 97 hostages who are still held in the Hamas-ruled territory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-launches-fresh-ground-offensive-in-gazas-jabalia-refugee-camp-on-eve-of-oct-7-attacks-764972">Also read |&nbsp;Israeli military launches fresh ground offensive in Gaza's Jabalia refugee camp on eve of Oct 7 attacks</a>

Ahead of the Monday anniversary,&nbsp;military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said in a televised briefing:&nbsp;"We are prepared with increased forces in anticipation for this day" when there could be "attacks on the home front."

Meanwhile, Israeli President Issac Herzog said that his country's October 7 "wounds still cannot fully heal".

(With inputs from agencies)

A 25-year-old woman was killed while 10 others were wounded after shots were heard at the Beersheba central bus station in southern Israel on Sunday (Oct 6), according to a report in Jerusalem Post. The police classified the incident as a terror strike, adding that the attacker had been eliminated. The police are currently investigating whether the attack involved both stabbing and gunfire by the terrorist. "A short time ago a report was received at the police headquarters about a suspected shooting incident at the central station in Beersheva," said a police spokesman in a statement. "A number of injured on the scene. The terrorist was neutralised at the scene and many police forces of the southern district are at the scene," the statement added. The Magen David Adom (MDA) ambulance service said its paramedics were providing medical treatment at the scene where several had been wounded with various degrees of injuries. MDA added it was transferring one person in moderate-to-serious condition, four people in moderate condition, and three individuals who had been lightly wounded, to the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba. The victim who succumbed to the injuries has been identified as a 25-year-old woman with further details awaited about her. The terrorist behind the terror attack has been identified as Ahmad al-Uqbi, 29, from a Bedouin hamlet near the town of Lakiya, according to Israeli defense authorities. Al-Uqbi holds Israeli citizenship and has a criminal record, reported Times of Israel, citing authorities. According to unconfirmed media reports, he was related to Muhanad Alukabi, who carried out a shooting attack at the same Beersheba bus station in October 2015 when one soldier was killed in the attack. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah War: New Details Emerge on Mossad's Pager and Walkie-talkie Operations Eve of Oct 7 attacks The terror attack comes on the eve of the October 7 attack where Hamas militants entered the Israeli territory and killed 695 Israeli civilians, including 36 children, as well as 373 security forces and 71 foreigners, taking the total to 1,139. It took more than three days of heavy fighting for the Israeli authorities to regain control which left the country deeply traumatised by violence unseen since the country's formation in 1948. US, Qatari and Egyptian mediators have tried unsuccessfully for months to reach a Gaza truce and secure the release of 97 hostages who are still held in the Hamas-ruled territory. Also read | Israeli military launches fresh ground offensive in Gaza's Jabalia refugee camp on eve of Oct 7 attacks Ahead of the Monday anniversary, military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said in a televised briefing: "We are prepared with increased forces in anticipation for this day" when there could be "attacks on the home front." Meanwhile, Israeli President Issac Herzog said that his country's October 7 "wounds still cannot fully heal". (With inputs from agencies)

Israel: Woman killed, 10 wounded in terror attack at Beersheba central bus station; attacker shot dead

The Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully rescued two foreign women mountaineers who had been stranded for three days at over 6,000 meters during their expedition to Chaukhamba-3 peak. Their equipment and bags had fallen into a gorge, prompting the rescue operation using helicopters on Sunday.

India: 2 Foreign Women Trekkers Missing In Uttarakhand's Chamoli Rescued After 3 Days

A video that has recently gone viral shows a long queue of students, mostly from India, outside the Tandoori Flame restaurant in Canada, waiting for job interviews.

A video that has recently gone viral shows a long queue of students, mostly from India, outside the Tandoori Flame restaurant in Canada, waiting for job interviews. The video, which has gone viral across social media platforms, shows thousands of job seekers standing in line for waiter and service staff positions. This situation has raised concerns among individuals considering studying or working in Canada. The video has sparked discussions about the employment prospects for international students, especially those planning to move to Canada for education or work. Scary scenes from Canada as 3000 students (mostly Indian) line up for waiter & servant job after an advertisement by a new restaurant opening in Brampton. Massive unemployment in Trudeau's Canada? Students leaving India for Canada with rosy dreams need serious introspection! pic.twitter.com/fd7Sm3jlfI — Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) October 3, 2024 × The video was shared on X by Megh Updates, with the caption: "Scary scenes from Canada as 3,000 students (mostly Indian) line up for waiter and servant jobs after an advertisement by a new restaurant opening in Brampton. Massive unemployment in Trudeau's Canada? Students leaving India for Canada with rosy dreams need serious introspection!" One student in the line could be heard, saying, "I came here around 12 noon, and the line was really huge. We put the application on the internet and were told that an interview would be taken. But nothing like that happened. People are just coming here. I don't believe there is scope for jobs here. It is really tough." Another student added, "It's so bad; it’s like everyone is looking for a job, and no one is getting a job properly. So many of my friends don’t have a job right now, and they have been here for 2-3 years." Also read: 'Wasn't supposed to make it': Trump returns to Butler after assassination bid Earlier this month, the Canadian government announced a cut in the number of study permits granted to international students and also introduced stricter foreign worker regulations, a move expected to affect many Indian students. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau posted on X, "We're granting 35% fewer international student permits this year. And next year, that number's going down by another 10%. Immigration is an advantage for our economy - but when bad actors abuse the system and take advantage of students, we crack down." WION cannot independently verify the authenticity, date and time of the video. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Thousands of Indian students line up for waiter jobs amid unemployment crisis in ‘Trudeau’s Canada’

It&nbsp;is&nbsp;‘impossible’&nbsp;for&nbsp;the&nbsp;People's&nbsp;Republic&nbsp;of&nbsp;China&nbsp;to&nbsp;become&nbsp;Taiwan's&nbsp;motherland&nbsp;because&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;has older political roots, the island's&nbsp;President&nbsp;Lai Ching-te said on Saturday.

Lai, who took office in May, is condemned by Beijing as a "separatist". He rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims, saying that the island is a country called the&nbsp;Republic&nbsp;of&nbsp;China, which traces its origins back to the 1911 revolution that overthrew the last imperial dynasty.

The&nbsp;republican government fled to&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;in 1949 after losing a civil war with Mao Zedong's communists who set up the&nbsp;People's&nbsp;Republic&nbsp;of&nbsp;China, which continues to claim the island as its "sacred" territory.

Speaking at a concert ahead of&nbsp;Taiwan's national day celebrations on Oct. 10, Lai noted that the&nbsp;People's&nbsp;Republic&nbsp;had celebrated its 75th anniversary on Oct. 1, and in a few days it would be the&nbsp;Republic&nbsp;of&nbsp;China's 113th birthday.

"Therefore, in terms of age, it is absolutely impossible for the&nbsp;People's&nbsp;Republic&nbsp;of&nbsp;China&nbsp;to become the 'motherland' of the&nbsp;Republic&nbsp;of&nbsp;China's people. On the contrary, the&nbsp;Republic&nbsp;of&nbsp; China&nbsp;may be the&nbsp;motherland&nbsp;of the people of the&nbsp;People's&nbsp;Republic&nbsp;of&nbsp;China&nbsp;who are over 75 years old," Lai added, to applause.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/journalist-sets-himself-on-fire-at-ceasefire-protest-in-washington-as-gaza-war-nears-first-anniversary-764889">Journalist sets himself on fire at Gaza ceasefire protest in Washington</a>

"One of the most important meanings of these celebrations is that we must remember that we are a sovereign and independent country," he said.

China's&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Affairs Office did not answer calls seeking comment outside of office hours.

Chinese&nbsp;President&nbsp;Xi Jinping, in a speech on the eve of his country's national day, reiterated his government's view that&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;was its territory.

Lai, who will give his own keynote national day address on Oct. 10, has needled Beijing before with historical references.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-sees-record-high-in-international-flights-passing-through-its-airspace-heres-why-764906">Afghanistan sees record high in int'l flights passing through its airspace</a>

Last month, Lai said that if&nbsp;China's claims on&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;were about territorial integrity then it should also take back land from Russia signed over by the last Chinese dynasty in the 19th century.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

It is ‘impossible’ for the People's Republic of China to become Taiwan's motherland because Taiwan has older political roots, the island's President Lai Ching-te said on Saturday.

It is ‘impossible’ for the People's Republic of China to become Taiwan's motherland because Taiwan has older political roots, the island's President Lai Ching-te said on Saturday. Lai, who took office in May, is condemned by Beijing as a "separatist". He rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims, saying that the island is a country called the Republic of China, which traces its origins back to the 1911 revolution that overthrew the last imperial dynasty. The republican government fled to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war with Mao Zedong's communists who set up the People's Republic of China, which continues to claim the island as its "sacred" territory. Speaking at a concert ahead of Taiwan's national day celebrations on Oct. 10, Lai noted that the People's Republic had celebrated its 75th anniversary on Oct. 1, and in a few days it would be the Republic of China's 113th birthday. "Therefore, in terms of age, it is absolutely impossible for the People's Republic of China to become the 'motherland' of the Republic of China's people. On the contrary, the Republic of China may be the motherland of the people of the People's Republic of China who are over 75 years old," Lai added, to applause. Also read: Journalist sets himself on fire at Gaza ceasefire protest in Washington "One of the most important meanings of these celebrations is that we must remember that we are a sovereign and independent country," he said. China's Taiwan Affairs Office did not answer calls seeking comment outside of office hours. Chinese President Xi Jinping, in a speech on the eve of his country's national day, reiterated his government's view that Taiwan was its territory. Lai, who will give his own keynote national day address on Oct. 10, has needled Beijing before with historical references. Also read: Afghanistan sees record high in int'l flights passing through its airspace Last month, Lai said that if China's claims on Taiwan were about territorial integrity then it should also take back land from Russia signed over by the last Chinese dynasty in the 19th century. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mainland China cannot be our ‘motherland‘, it’s the other way round says Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te

Over 180 years of horse racing in Singapore ended on Saturday (Oct 5). The Singapore Turf Club hosted its final race on Saturday and now the track would be handed back to the government to provide land for new homes.

Over 180 years of horse racing in Singapore ended on Saturday (Oct 5). The Singapore Turf Club hosted its final race on Saturday and now the track would be handed back to the government to provide land for new homes. According to a report by Bloomberg on Sunday, the race track of more than 300 acres would be bulldozed for new public and private homes as Singapore is trying to accommodate a growing population that crossed six million this year. The government has said that this is necessary to ensure “there is sufficient land for future generations.” After some preparation work, the site must be returned by early 2027. The last race at Singapore Turf Club On Saturday, the air-conditioned VIP boxes at the Singapore Turf Club were full of enthusiasts, socialites and expats, while the grounds and betting halls below hosted mostly older-generation punters. Also read | Singapore charges billionaire linked to ex-transport minister's case The sun broke through for the final race, the Grand Singapore Gold Cup. As per the report, South African jockey Muzi Yeni, who rode the winner Smart Star, echoed a feeling of loss shared by many on the day. “I’d like the government to look at it, if I have much say,” he said in a post-race interview. Horse racing already on decline in Singapore Though the government's decision to end horse racing sent shockwaves through the riding and training community in Singapore, horse racing has already been on the decline in the country. Spectatorship fell from a race-day average of 11,000 in 2010 to about 6,000 in 2019, before Covid cut attendance by more than half. During the final race on Saturday, about 10,000 people turned up — a third of the stadium’s capacity. Horse racing in Singapore has always had to contend with the need for land. However, it is not the only sport to succumb to the housing expansion. The last 18-hole public golf course closed earlier this year for redevelopment. (With inputs from agencies)

Singapore ends over 180 years of horse racing to provide land for new homes

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