Manish Rai*
Kabul (The Hawk): The ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) has taken effect in the Gaza Strip after days of cross-border fighting triggered by surprise Israeli airstrikes. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said its aerial bombardment was a pre-emptive action aimed at preventing rocket attacks planned by PIJ against Israeli targets. In retaliation to airstrikes, Islamic Jihad militants fired more than 1,000 rockets at Israel, forcing residents of southern areas and major cities including Tel Aviv fleeing to bomb shelters. Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid said in a televised statement that the entire senior military command of Islamic Jihad in Gaza was successfully eliminated and all our goals were achieved. PIJ is a relatively smaller armed group compared to Hamas which rules Gaza. But still PIJ is proving to be the most prominent threat emerging from Gaza to Israelis. Last year, also in conflict with Israel, PIJ emerged as a dark horse. Despite losing top operatives as well as military infrastructure, the PIJ managed to keep firing a large barrage of rockets until a ceasefire came into effect. This time also Islamic Jihad kept on firing rockets despite overwhelming Israeli air strikes.
Palestinian Islamic Jihad was founded in 1981 as an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood. Despite being operational for more than four decades, the PIJ remains one of the most important yet least understood Palestinian armed factions historically and ideologically. The group has emerged as the second-largest armed movement in the Gaza Strip. The group has a reputation for being small and highly secretive, which makes it less prone to infiltration by Israeli intelligence services. Islamic Jihad consists of a leadership council and a military wing, called the al-Quds Brigades. But unlike other militant groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah, which maintain extensive political and social apparatuses alongside their military wings. PIJ focuses exclusively on military activity and wishes to be seen as an elite vanguard rather than a broad community-based movement. Also, the outfit is opposed to any political engagement with Israel.
Hamas, which gained full control of the Gaza strip in 2007 from Fatah is often limited in its ability to act militarily against Israel. Because it bears responsibility for running the day-to-day affairs of Gaza. The coastal enclave is often in the news because of its Humanitarian hardships. Islamic Jihad has no such limitations and has emerged as the more militant and radical faction, often undermining Hamas authority. Islamic Jihad has become the driving force in rocket-fire confrontations with Israel. Indeed, it is known to unilaterally pick fights with Tel Aviv without taking any other resistance group into confidence. In recent times, the PIJ has tried to outflank Hamas by presenting itself as a more radical opponent of Israel.
In fact, according to Israeli media reports, the group is already winning in the firepower stakes. Meaning that while Hamas is believed to have far more long-range and precise rockets than the PIJ — the latter is in possession of some 8,000 short-range rockets including some anti-tank missiles. Incidentally, most of its weapons are now locally produced in Gaza, and in recent years it has developed an arsenal to rival that of Hamas, including some longer-range rockets capable of striking Tel Aviv.&nbsp;
PIJ's strategy to confront Israel is simple: it tries to overwhelm the Israeli state-of-the-art Iron Dome missile defence system by the sheer volume of simultaneously fired projectiles. Many of its rockets are so cheap and easy to manufacture, in some cases requiring little more than a metal casing and an explosive, that the PIJ has managed to accumulate them in significant numbers. So, even if Israel successfully stops all outward weapons supplies coming into Gaza — the PIJ’s homegrown capabilities will allow it to bombard Israel with rocket fire for weeks, if not months. Palestinian Islamic Jihad has moved towards entirely indigenous production, often manufacturing both the weapons and explosives out of raw materials readily available in the Gaza Strip.
The Islamic Jihad leadership firmly believes that it has nothing to lose and everything to gain by escalating tensions with Israel. As it will be seen as leading resistance from the Palestinians against the Zionist state. The Gaza Strip is currently suffering from an acute economic crisis. The cost of living is high and unemployment is spiralling. So Hamas rightly believes, at least for now, that calm is required to allow the people of Gaza some breathing space. Hamas at this point in time wants to strengthen its regime by improving the living conditions for the Gazans. And then slowly increase its influence to the West bank by showcasing themselves as efficient administrators. But if Hamas tries to stop and curtain Islamic Jihad at this stage, before the region gets hotter still, it will be accused of collaborating with Israel. This leaves the leaders of Hamas caught between a rock and a hard place. But if it let Islamic Jihad to carry on wild with its operations against Israel, that will likely lead to a harsh Israeli response. Nevertheless, Hamas will soon have to make tough choices if it does not wish to be ousted from the Gaza driving seat. And this means taking effective measures to prevent the PIJ’s independence and curbing self-serving activities.
*Author is a political analyst for Middle-East and Af-Pak region and Editor of the geo-political news agency ViewsAround

 The ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) has taken effect in the Gaza Strip after days of cross-border fighting triggered by surprise Israeli airstrikes.

Islamic Jihad Not Hamas The Most Prominent Threat To Israel From Gaza  

Dr. Alon Ben-Meir*
Given that Israel and Hamas collaborate both publicly and tacitly on multiple fronts, one would think they would finally realize that they are stuck and neither can escape the other. It’s time for both to come to terms with their inescapable reality and seek a long-term solution to their conflict
Righting the Wrong
New York (The Hawk): In the search for a solution to the Israel-Hamas conflict, one has to look at their reality and identify the elements that sustain their conflict, and those that maintain their wide range of cooperation regardless of their adversarial relationship. The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) calls for Israel’s destruction and Israel considers Hamas to be a terrorist organization that must be isolated and remain under siege. While both sides ‘appear’ to speak out of conviction against the other, they also recognize that they are stuck together. And regardless of their public pronouncements to the contrary, they privately admit that neither can rid itself of the other. The absurdity of their relationship is that although they know that the status quo cannot be sustained indefinitely, they make little effort, if any, to change the trajectory of their conflict.
Since Hamas took over Gaza in 2007, Israel and Hamas fought four wars and scores of violent incidents in between without either achieving any lasting gains. In fact, to the contrary, Israel repeatedly suffered economic disruptions as a result of the intermittent violence and wars while the Palestinians suffered from extensive destruction, thousands of deaths, and tens of thousands more who will continue to endure years of despair and devastation from the aftermath of these violent encounters.
The struggle between them continues because Hamas wants to safeguard its political standing in the eyes of its public by exhibiting confrontational militancy and resistance against Israel both in its public pronouncements and actions, cementing its role in the forefront of the struggle against the occupation and the blockade. Israel, on the other hand, strictly maintains its blockade and control of people and goods over the two crossings to and from Gaza and, when necessary, uses military force to subdue any major violent provocations by invading Gaza and “mown the lawn” to keep Hamas at bay.
Meanwhile, in spite of their failure to gain over the years enduringly tangible benefits, Hamas still refuses to renounce violence against Israel and continues to build its weapons arsenal (mostly rockets). Conversely, Israel readies itself for the next round of hostilities, but each time fails to change the dynamic of the conflict in its favor. The irony here is that while this state of affairs is on full display, they continue to transact directly but tacitly with one another or through Egypt. They negotiate specific security or economic measures following a conflagration and reach new agreements on various conflicting issues that inadvertently arise as a result of their absurd confrontational reality.
The absurdity of the Israel-Hamas relationship is three-fold. The irony of the first aspect is that Israel itself created Hamas, which has been confirmed by many top Israeli military and civilian officials over a number of years. Former Brig. Gen. Yitzhak Segev, who was the Israeli military governor in Gaza in the early 1980s, told a New York Times reporter that he had helped finance Hamas as a “counterweight” to the secularists and leftists of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Fatah party, led by Yasser Arafat, stating “The Israeli Government gave me a budget and the military government gives to the mosques.” And among many others, Avner Cohen, a former Israeli religious affairs official who worked in Gaza for more than two decades, told the Wall Street Journal in 2009 that “Hamas, to my great regret, is Israel’s creation.”
The Israeli military’s thinking at the time was that it would greatly benefit Israel if the religiously-committed Hamas and socialist PLO were to continue to be occupied fighting each other rather than fighting Israel. To be sure, Israel helped turn a gang of Palestinian Islamists in the late 1970s into a relatively major force. For most Israelis this fact is either unknown or readily dismissed as a conspiracy theory. Little did Israeli leaders at the time (Rabin and Shamir) know that Hamas would become Israel’s implacable foe.
The second part of the absurd Israel-Hamas relationship is that while Israel officially refuses to negotiate with any terrorist organization and certainly not assist one in any way, it finds itself in a different bind when it comes to Hamas. Other than occasionally slowing or suspending traffic through the two Israeli-controlled crossings (Erez, for people, and Kerem Shalom for goods) because of violent incidents, Israel has no choice but to allow the supplies of foodstuff, building materials, medical equipment, oil, and gas to pass through to Gaza. In addition, Israel transfers funds to Hamas from various donors, in particular Qatar, while allowing up to 17,000 Palestinians laborers from Gaza to work in Israel on a daily basis to ease the dire economic hardship that most Palestinians in the Strip continue to endure.
The third aspect is that although both sides know that they are stuck and must live with one another indefinitely, they still refuse to accept the other’s irrevocable existence. In speaking to scores of Israelis and Palestinians on the continuing precarious situation between the two sides, I found little consensus about the nature of any likely solution. There was a general agreement however, that neither can rid itself of the other.&nbsp;
The question is, since they must face and interact regularly on so many levels, why not seek a permanent solution to the conflict, given their reality today?
The answer is that there are many other elements at play in the conflict which make it extremely difficult to resolve, including historic narratives, religious connections, psychology, and emotional states, the mitigation of which are prerequisites to finding a solution. Although all Palestinians share the same historical perspective, feelings, mindset, and beliefs, Hamas’ extremism and fanaticism as they relate to all of these elements makes it harder and more intricate to ameliorate.
Hamas, like most Palestinians, believe in the right of the Palestinians to the historic land of their ancestors, demanding a Palestinian state in all of historic Palestine (encompassing Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel), going further than other Palestinians in insisting that such a state be Islamic. Although for Hamas it is still inconceivable to relinquish much of what they consider historic Palestine, deep inside, they also know that it will be impossible to ever recover all of it. The most they can hope for is the establishment of a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders which they have offered on a number of occasions, encompassing the West Bank with some land swaps, and all of Gaza.
As an organization rooted in Islam, Hamas has a strong religious connection to the land. Its charter declares its belief that “the land of Palestine is an Islamic Waqf consecrated for future Muslim generations until Judgment Day,” and they point to al-Aqsa Mosque in fanatic terms as their undisputed evidence to their holy connection.
More than 70 years of gory conflict that exacted heavy human and material resources, suffering, and dislocation left a profound, indelible psychological anguish and resistance that still haunts all Palestinians, particularly Gazans. Regardless of Hamas’ intransigence and missed opportunities throughout the years, the Gaza blockade further deepens their psychological trauma and offers a constant reminder of their miserable state of affairs for which they blame Israel.
Finally, the emotional component overshadows any logical discourse. Hamas resides at the helm of a Palestinian population in Gaza that feels emotionally distraught and exhausted with a deepening sense of hopelessness. They are struggling day in and day out to make ends meet without much relief in sight. Their emotional resistance to the blockade instigates hatred against Israel and a strong desire for revenge that leaves little room for understanding and coming to terms with Israel’s reality.
Even after the most thorough examination of the above four points, however cogently they explain Hamas’ intransigence, one conclusion remains inescapable: Nothing will change the need to come to terms with Israel. In the final analysis Hamas must still find a way to reconcile itself with Israel’s existence because neither Hamas nor Israel can wish the other away—not now, not in ten years, nor at any time in the foreseeable future.
To that end, I must ask every member of Hamas’ leadership to look in the mirror and ask himself the question and answer it faithfully: under what conditions and circumstances, and how, when, and by what means will Hamas be in a position to destroy Israel? If they are true to themselves, the answer will be never.
Perhaps it is time to be abundantly bold and clear. If Israel ever faces a clear and present existential threat, it will unleash all of its military might to obliterate completely and unmercifully the source of the threat which will spell the end of Hamas or any other of Israel’s sworn foes.
Every political leader in Israel too must ask a similar question, will there be a circumstance under which Israel can completely rid itself of Hamas? The answer here will also be categorically NO. Thus, notwithstanding their deep animosity and wishful thinking to destroy each other, they are stuck with one another and there is no point in waiting for the day when either can score a unilateral and permanent victory. That day will not come, the dynamic of the conflict will not change dramatically, and the likelihood of repeated violent eruptions is omnipresent. Regardless of who will form the next Israeli government, be that Netanyahu or Lapid, the public discourse on this issue ought to begin.
In August, Hamas demonstrated restraint by not joining Islamic Jihad’s rocket attack on Israel, which ended in the humiliation of Islamic Jihad as a result of Israel’s retaliation. Hamas has also shown that the interest of the people they govern comes first, and refrained from joining the recent violent disturbances in the West Bank. This may not seem especially notable; nevertheless, these occurrences offer an opportunity for both Israel and Hamas to build on them.
In the short term, Israel should reciprocate by increasing the number of Palestinian workers from Gaza who can work in Israel from the current number of 20,000 to potentially 30,000 as was reported by Qatari envoy to Gaza Mohammad al-Emadi, who regularly meets with Israeli and Palestinian officials, and expedite, whenever possible, the transfer of funds and transport of goods to Gaza. Moreover, Israel should make it easier for those Palestinians who need urgent medical care to receive it in Israel, as well as making it easier for Palestinian students to leave Gaza for university.
Hamas, on the other hand, should not provoke Israel and must continue to gradually moderate its acrimonious public narrative against Israel and rein in Islamic Jihad and prevent them from provoking Israel. Neither side will lose face by cooperating at this level and progressively expanding their cooperation without too much fanfare.
For the long term, Hamas should renew its call for a 15–20-year ceasefire (Hudna) and tacitly agree with Israel that during this period it will focus on nation-building rather than procuring more arms and rockets to prepare for the next round of hostilities, while distancing itself from Iran. Both Israel and Hamas should develop a credible and mutually acceptable verification mechanism to that effect. Indeed, the idea behind a long-term ceasefire is to provide the building blocks for reaching a permanent peace agreement based on a two-state solution to be negotiated in conjunction with or separate from the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank. In any case, a long-term ceasefire remains a critical first step towards that end.
For Hamas to signal its willingness to cease all hostilities is not capitulation—it is the moral and most beneficial thing to do for its people. The same goes for Israel; the notion that many Israelis hold that Hamas is simply irredeemable, is drivel. The same was said about the PLO. Israel has nothing to lose by signaling too that it is open for dialogue with the objective of reaching an interim agreement.
I must appeal to Hamas’ leadership to think about the plight of its people. Their suffering will not end until the blockade is finally lifted. Rather than training another generation of warriors for hopeless fights, sacrificing themselves for an illusionary goal of destroying Israel, Hamas has an obligation to carefully consider their future and aspiration for a new dawn and a new beginning which they badly crave and richly deserve, and take pride in their achievements, if only given the opportunity.

It is about time for Israel to face the reality of Hamas and address the consequences of its own creation. Contrariwise, Hamas must accept Israel’s reality however objectionable that might be, simply because they have no other choice.
*Dr. Alon Ben-Meir is a retired professor of international relations at the Center for Global Affairs at NYU. He taught courses on international negotiation and Middle Eastern studies for over 20 years.

In the search for a solution to the Israel-Hamas conflict, one has to look at their reality and identify the elements that sustain their conflict, and those that maintain their wide range of cooperation regardless of their adversarial relationship. 

The Absurdity Of The Israel-Hamas Relationship

New Delhi (The Hawk): Rahul Lingma, a prankster who gained notoriety online by impersonating a sacked Twitter employee in front of the company's US headquarters, is unstoppable.
Ligma is presently visible in the Bahamas carrying a crate filled with office supplies as a fired employee of the troubled cryptocurrency exchange FTX.
In a recent video, Ligma can be seen posing as a laid-off employee of FTX, a cryptocurrency startup that is in serious problems as a result of the withdrawal of the plan to acquire it by the top cryptocurrency exchange Binance.
"Since this is my second job in a month, it is incredibly difficult (after Twitter). I honestly sincerely believed that Web 3.0 was going to be different after Web 2.0 kicked me out. However, it isn't "Ligma said in jest.
"I recently brought my "husband and wife" here to the Bahamas after quitting my work at Twitter. And as you may be aware, things changed so swiftly "He laughed.
After analysing the company's finances, Binance announced on Thursday that it was pulling out of the acquisition of its rival FTX, which caused major cryptocurrencies to drop even more.
Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder and CEO of the cryptocurrency exchange FTX, informed investors that he needed emergency funding to make up a shortfall of up to $8 billion caused by withdrawal requests that had been received recently.
Ligma remarked that Sam "truly sought to maximise his compassion" and that he had his full admiration.
Ligma and another guy were seen carrying boxes at the entrance of Twitter's San Francisco headquarters last month, alleging they had been laid off by Elon Musk, who had sacked 50% of the company's workers.
Ligma claimed to be a software developer at Twitter, but it was later discovered that his name doesn't even appear in the company's email or Slack systems.
(Inputs from Agencies)&nbsp;

Rahul Lingma, a prankster who gained notoriety online by impersonating a sacked Twitter employee in front of the company's US headquarters, is unstoppable.

Prankster Rahul Ligma has been let go by FTX after being fired by Twitter

Tel Aviv [Israel]: The Israel Defense Forces on Saturday declared a state of readiness for war following a massive barrage of rockets from the Gaza Strip and infiltration of Hamas terrorists into Israel, The Times of Israel (TOI) reported. "The IDF declares a state of readiness for war," the army said in a statement.
"There has been widespread rocket fire into Israeli territory from Gaza, and terrorists have infiltrated Israeli territory through various entry points. Residents in the south and centre of the country are required to be in close proximity to protected areas, and those in the Gaza periphery should remain within a secure space," the IDF added in its statement. Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces said that it was carrying out retaliatory airstrikes in the Gaza Strip. The strikes come nearly two hours after Hamas launched a surprise attack, the Israeli daily reported. In a statement, the IDF said the Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Herzi Halevi, is holding an assessment and approving plans of action, the daily added in its report. "Hamas... which is behind this attack, will bear the results and responsibility for the events," the IDF said. A barrage of rockets slammed into southern and central Israel Saturday morning, including in Jerusalem, where sirens wailed at around 8.15 am (local time), Jerusalem Post reported. At least one rocket directly hit a building in the Gederot Regional Council, killing a woman in her 60s, according to Magen David Adom. As of 8 am (local time) on Saturday morning, Magen David Adom (MDA) said it had, thus far, treated 16 people throughout the country, including two who were in critical condition, six in moderate condition and seven with minor injuries. There has been sustained rocket fire toward Israel for over two hours. One woman has been killed and there are multiple wounded from the barrages. Aside from the woman who died of her wounds, the injured included a 52-year-old man from Gederot, who was moderately injured, and a 20-year-old man from Yavne, who also sustained minor injuries. Both victims were transferred to Kaplan Hospital, according to Jerusalem Post. Hospitals also began reporting their wounded: Asaf Harofeh said it treated six people -- two in serious condition, one in moderate condition, and three with mild injuries. Meanwhile, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant approved a widescale call-up of reservists, following a surprise attack by Hamas on Israel.
—ANI

The Israel Defense Forces on Saturday declared a state of readiness for war following a massive barrage of rockets from the Gaza Strip

Israel declares 'readiness for war' after rocket attacks from Gaza

Tel Aviv [Israel]: The toll in the Hamas rocket fire from the Gaza Strip into Israel climbed to 4, The Times of Israel reported. The daily reported earlier that after a barrage of rocket fire from the Gaza Strip, Hamas fighters infiltrated Israel.
The mayor of Kuseife, Abd al-Aziz Nassara, confirmed the toll, adding that several more have been wounded as the rockets from Gaza rained on the town. Kuseife, a Bedouin town in southern Israel, is located around 65 kilometres from the Gaza Strip. According to reports, a woman was killed earlier in the rocket attack and their multiple injuries as well. Following the attack, red alert warning sirens were activated in Tel Aviv, located around 70 kilometres from the Gaza Strip, as well as, Sde Boker, Arad, and Dimona in the south. Residents living across these areas heard the massive explosions, according to The Times of Israel. Meanwhile, Opposition leader Yair Lapid received a security briefing from the Israeli Prime Minister's military secretary, Avi Gil, following the attack. "Israel is in an emergency" and Lapid would back a "harsh military response" to Hamas's coordinated attack, a statement from the Opposition's leader's office said. Apart from the woman, who died of her wounds, the injured included a 52-year-old man from Gederot, who was moderately injured, and a 20-year-old man from Yavne, who also sustained minor injuries. Both victims were transferred to Kaplan Hospital, according to the Jerusalem Post. The Israel Defense Forces, meanwhile, declared a state of readiness for war following the attack. "There has been widespread rocket fire into Israeli territory from Gaza, and terrorists have infiltrated Israeli territory through various entry points. Residents in the south and centre of the country are required to be in close proximity to protected areas, and those in the Gaza periphery should remain within a secure space," the IDF added in its statement. The IDF said it was carrying out retaliatory airstrikes in the Gaza Strip. The strikes come nearly two hours after Hamas launched a surprise attack, the Israeli daily reported. The Israel Defense Forces has closed the roads near the Gaza Strip border as Hamas's rocket fires in Israel, according to The Times of Israel. The closed roads include, Route 4 from the Zikim junction to Netiv Ha'asara; Route 34 from the Yad Mordechai junction to Nir Am; and Route 232 from Mefalsim to Sa'ad and Nir Yitzhak to Kerem Shalom. The army said it has also closed all routes used by farmers in the area. Additionally, the Zikim beach on the Gaza border is also closed off, The Times of Israel reported. Further, according to the IDF, the trains will not run between Ashkelon and Sderot.
—ANI

The toll in the Hamas rocket fire from the Gaza Strip into Israel climbed to 4, The Times of Israel reported.

Israel: Death toll from Hamas rocket fire rises to 4

Tel Aviv [Israel]: Following a massive barrage of rockets from the Gaza Strip fired towards Israel, Naor Gilon, Israel's Ambassador to India stressed that the situation is not simple but Israel will prevail. Noting that the attack happened during the Jewish holidays, the Indian envoy further stated that Israel is under a combined attack from Gaza, both by rockets and ground infiltration of Hamas terrorists.
Taking to his social media 'X', he stated, "#Israel is under a combined attack from Gaza during the Jewish holiday. Both by rockets and ground infiltration of Hamas terrorists. The situation is not simple but Israel will prevail."
<a href="https://twitter.com/naorgilon/status/1710535054818976067?s=46&t=TbrKHKgG29uXA1CMFN38Pw" target="_self">https://twitter.com/naorgilon/status/1710535054818976067?s=46&amp;t=TbrKHKgG29uXA1CMFN38Pw</a>&nbsp;
According to The Times of Israel, Hamas said that it launched 5,000 rockets at Israel in an early morning surprise attack, calling it "Operation al-Aqsa Flood." Mohammad Deif, the Hamas military commander, issued a statement saying that the ongoing attacks are in retaliation for Israel's "desecration" of the al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem. Moreover, Israel's Foreign Ministry stressed that Israel will do everything to protect itself. Noting that the attack happened on Shabbat and the holiday of Simchat Torah, he said non-stop rocket sirens were setting off across the country. "ISRAEL UNDER ATTACK: On Shabbat &amp; the holiday of Simchat Torah - non-stop rocket sirens are sounding across Israel, including Jerusalem. Israel is under terrorist infiltration carried out by the Hamas terrorist organization. We will do everything to protect ourselves," the Israel Foreign Ministry shared on social media 'X'. Meanwhile, Charge d'Affaires at the US Embassy in Jerusalem Stephanie Hallett also condemned the attack by Hamas terrorists against Israeli civilians.
She emphasized that she is in contact with Israeli officials and extends her support to Israel's right to defend itself from such terrorist acts. "I condemn the indiscriminate rocket fire by Hamas terrorists against Israeli civilians. I am in contact with Israeli officials, and fully support Israel's right to defend itself from such terrorist acts," Stephanie Hallett said in a post shared on 'X'. Israel/status/1710528006685380673?t=xk83WCx6Vbvnm2XleXhPdw&amp;s=08" rel="noopener" target="_blank"&gt;https://twitter.com/USAmbIsrael/status/1710528006685380673?t=xk83WCx6Vbvnm2XleXhPdw&amp;s=08 A barrage of rockets slammed into southern and central Israel Saturday morning, including in Jerusalem, where sirens wailed at around 8.15 am (local time), Jerusalem Post reported. At least one rocket directly hit a building in the Gederot Regional Council, killing a woman in her 60s, according to Magen David Adom. Following the attack, the Israel Defense Forces on Saturday declared a state of readiness for war. "The IDF declares a state of readiness for war," the army said in a statement. "There has been widespread rocket fire into Israeli territory from Gaza, and terrorists have infiltrated Israeli territory through various entry points. Residents in the south and centre of the country are required to be in close proximity to protected areas, and those in the Gaza periphery should remain within a secure space," the IDF added in its statement. "Hamas... which is behind this attack, will bear the results and responsibility for the events," the IDF said. As of 8 am (local time) on Saturday morning, Magen David Adom (MDA) said it had, thus far, treated 16 people throughout the country, including two who were in critical condition, six in moderate condition and seven with minor injuries. There has been sustained rocket fire toward Israel for over two hours. One woman has been killed and there are multiple wounded from the barrages.
—ANI

Following a massive barrage of rockets from the Gaza Strip fired towards Israel, Naor Gilon, Israel's Ambassador to India stressed that the situation

"The situation is not simple but Israel will prevail": Israel envoy on Hamas attack

Tel Aviv [Israel]: The head of the Sha'ar Hanegev Regional Council, Ofir Liebstein, was killed in the deadly rocket fire from Hamas into Israel on Saturday morning, The Times of Israel reported, citing local sources. "Ofir was killed when he went to defend a town during the terrorist attack," the report said, quoting a statement from the Council.
The deputy head of the Council, Yossi Keren, has taken interim charge of the body following Liebstein's death, The Times of Israel reported. According to the latest reports, at least 5 people have been killed and over 100 injured in the Hamas rocket fire. The centre and south of Israel came under heavy rocket fire for over 3.5 hours on Saturday morning, The Times of Israel reported. Further, Hamas claimed to have kidnapped five Israel Defence Force (IDF) soldiers, The Jerusalem Post reported, adding that the IDF did not confirm the statement. After the attack, the IDF launched retaliatory strikes on the Gaza Strip. However, according to The Jerusalem Post, while the IDF launched retaliatory operations in the Gaza Strip, Israeli action remained minimal even two hours after the rocket attacks started. Israeli media reported that Hamas currently has 33 prisoners of war, including civilians and soldiers. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released a statement saying that the Security Cabinet would convene around 1pm after assessing the situation, The Jerusalem Post reported. Opposition leader Yair Lapid is set to meet PM Netanyahu after the security meeting, the report added. Earlier, Lapid received a security briefing from the Israeli Prime Minister's military secretary, Avi Gil, following the rocket strikes. "Israel is in an emergency" and Lapid would back a "harsh military response" to Hamas's coordinated attack, a statement from the Opposition's leader's office said. Israel Defence Minister Yoav Gallant approved the draft of reserve soldiers in accordance with the IDF's requirements. He further announced a "special security situation" in Israel's Homefront, within a 0-80 km radius of the Gaza Strip, The Jerusalem Post reported, adding that this further enabled the IDF to provide civilians with safety instructions at "close and relevant sites". "Hamas is the ruling entity in the Gaza Strip, responsible for this attack, and will bear the consequences and responsibility for the events," the IDF said. At least one rocket directly hit a building in the Gederot Regional Council, killing a woman in her 60s, according to a report.
—ANI

The head of the Sha'ar Hanegev Regional Council, Ofir Liebstein, was killed in the deadly rocket fire from Hamas into Israel on Saturday

Mayor of Israel town killed in Hamas rocket fire

Tel Aviv [Israel]: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Saturday after hundreds of rockets fired by Hamas terrorists hit Israel today. "Citizens of Israel, we are at war. Not an operation not an escalation- at war," Netanyahu said in a video posted on X, formerly Twitter.
"We are at war and we will win," he asserted in a video statement according to translation provided by Reuters. "Our enemy will pay a price the type of which it has never known," he added. The Israeli PM's statement followed after rockets were launched from Gaza into Israel.
<a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1710574677385445775?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1710574677385445775%7Ctwgr%5E61319e12a5c3da15c92350079dc20395bba5c648%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aninews.in%2Fnews%2Fworld%2Fmiddle-east%2Fwe-are-at-war-our-enemy-will-pay-price-israel-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-after-hamas-attack20231007143202" target="_self">https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1710574677385445775?</a>
According to the latest reports, at least 5 people have been killed and over 100 injured in the Hamas rocket fire. The centre and south of Israel came under heavy rocket fire for over 3.5 hours on Saturday morning, The Times of Israel reported. "Israel is in an emergency" and Lapid would back a "harsh military response" to Hamas's coordinated attack, a statement from the Opposition's leader's office said. Israel Defence Minister Yoav Gallant approved the draft of reserve soldiers in accordance with the Isreael Defence Force's requirements. He further announced a "special security situation" in Israel's Homefront, within a 0-80 km radius of the Gaza Strip, The Jerusalem Post reported, adding that this further enabled the IDF to provide civilians with safety instructions at "close and relevant sites". The daily reported earlier that after a barrage of rocket fire from the Gaza Strip, Hamas fighters infiltrated Israel. Following the attack, red alert warning sirens were activated in Tel Aviv, located around 70 kilometres from the Gaza Strip, as well as, Sde Boker, Arad, and Dimona in the south.
—ANI

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Saturday after hundreds of rockets fired by Hamas terrorists hit Israel today.

"We are at war, Our enemy will pay price" Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu after Hamas attack

Tel Aviv [IsraeL]: The Israel Defence Forces on Saturday launched operation 'Iron Swords' in response to Hamas's surprise attack on Israel, the Times of Israel reported. IDF is striking Hamas targets in Gaza. "In response to the barrages of rockets launched by Hamas from Gaza at Israel, the IDF is currently striking Hamas targets in Gaza," Israel Defense Forces said in a post on 'X'.
Israel Defence Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized that the country will win this war and noted that Hamas has made a "grave mistake" by launching a surprise attack on Israel with rockets. "Hamas made a grave mistake this morning and started a war against the State of Israel. IDF soldiers are fighting the enemy at all the infiltration sites. The State of Israel will win this war," Gallant said, Times of Israel reported citing his office.
<a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1710562933770469547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1710562933770469547%7Ctwgr%5E9ba19f3e62a4587aa640f0439ce70a1a1ae3dd6d%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aninews.in%2Fnews%2Fworld%2Fmiddle-east%2Fisrael-defence-forces-launch-operation-iron-swords-after-hamas-surprise-attack20231007144829" target="_self">https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1710562933770469547?</a>
The Israeli military is fighting Hamas terrorists in different locations in Southern Israel near the border with the Gaza Strip, including the towns of Kfar Aza, Sderot, Sufa, Nahal Oz, Magen, Be'eri and the Re'im military base. IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated that over 2200 rockets were fired into Israel since 6:30 am on Saturday, the report said. The firing took place for more than 3.5 hours. Hagari said that Hamas terrorists infiltrated from land, sea and air. He further added that there are at least seven sites of fighting between Hamas and IDF troops. Israel's military is expecting to draft tens of thousands of soldiers, the report said. Hamas claimed to have kidnapped five IDF soldiers. IDF has not yet spoken on the report.
—ANI

The Israel Defence Forces on Saturday launched operation 'Iron Swords' in response to Hamas's surprise attack on Israel, the Times of Israel reported.

Israel Defence Forces launch Operation 'Iron Swords' after Hamas' surprise attack

Tel Aviv [Israel]: Following the rocket attacks on Israel from the Gaza Strip by Hamas, the Indian Embassy in Israel on Saturday issued an advisory for its nationals, requesting them to remain vigilant and observe safety protocols. "In view of the current situation in Israel, all Indian nationals in Israel are requested to remain vigilant, and observe safety protocols as advised by local authorities. Please exercise caution, avoid unnecessary movement and stay close to safety shelters. For additional information, please see the Israeli Home Front Command website (https://www.oref.org.il/en or their preparedness brochure. In case of an emergency, please contact us at +97235226748, or leave a message a cons1.telaviv@mea.gov.in. The Embassy personnel remain at your disposal for any further guidance," read the advisory.
A barrage of rockets slammed into southern and central Israel Saturday morning. Sirens were heard as far as Jerusalem multiple times beginning at 8:15 am (local time). The sirens were heard again at 10:15 am (local time). At least one rocket directly hit a building in the Gederot Regional Council, killing a woman in her 60s, according to Magen David Adom, an Israeli national service. Meanwhile, Naor Gilon, Israel's Ambassador to India, appreciated the support of the people of India, adding "We stand firm in the face of terrorism." Israel has already declared a state of war in the country after infiltration by Hamas fighters and missile attacks from Gaza. The Israel Defence Forces said dozens of fighter jets are carrying out strikes against sites belonging to the Hamas group in the Gaza Strip. "Dozens of fighter jets of the Israeli Air Force are now attacking targets of the terrorist organization Hamas in the Gaza Strip in several locations, more details to follow," posted Israeli Air Force on X. Meanwhile, world leaders condemned the ghastly attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists. Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Rishi Sunak expressed his shock over the attack, posting on X, "I am shocked by this morning's attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israeli citizens. Israel has an absolute right to defend itself. We're in contact with Israeli authorities, and British nationals in Israel should follow travel advice." French President Emmanuel Macron also condemned the terrorist attacks on Israel posting, "I strongly condemn the terrorist attacks currently hitting Israel. I express my full solidarity with the victims, their families and loved ones." Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong condemned the attacks on Israel by Hamas including indiscriminate rocket fire on cities and civilians. "Australia unequivocally condemns the attacks on Israel by Hamas including indiscriminate rocket fire on cities &amp; civilians. We call for these attacks to stop &amp; recognise Israel's right to defend itself. Australia urges the exercise of restraint &amp; protection of civilian lives," she posted on X. German Foreign Office also strongly condemned the rocket attacks on Israel from Gaza. "Hamas is escalating the violence. I strongly condemn the terrorist attacks against #Israel from Gaza. Violence &amp; rockets against innocent civilians must stop now. We stand in full solidarity with Israel &amp; its rights under intl. law to defend itself against terror. - FM @ABaerbock," read a post on the handle of the German Foreign Office on X. Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hadja Lahbib, also condemned the rocket fire on Israeli civilians. "Belgium strongly condemns the massive rocket attacks against Israeli civilians. Violence and terror only perpetuate suffering and hinder the path to dialogue. Our thoughts are with all those affected. We are monitoring the situation closely," Lahbib posted on X. Currently, Israel Defense Forces is targeting "Hamas terrorists" in 14 different locations in towns surrounding the Gaza Strip, according to TPS. The fights in infiltrated settlements are being carried out from house to house. Reportedly, there are women among the kidnapped and murdered citizens by the Hamas infiltrators, according to TPS.
—ANI

Following the rocket attacks on Israel from the Gaza Strip by Hamas, the Indian Embassy in Israel on Saturday issued an advisory for its nationals

"Remain vigilant, observe safety protocols": Indian Embassy in Israel issues advisory for citizens after Hamas attack

Tel Aviv [Israel]: In his first reaction after Hamas launched a "surprise attack", Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday said Israel "was at war" and has ordered mobilization of reserves to give it back with the magnitude the enemy has not expected, asserting that they will "win it" In a video statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, Netanyahu stated, "We are at war, not in an operation or in rounds, but at war. This morning, Hamas launched a murderous surprise attack against the State of Israel and its citizens. We have been in this since the early morning hours. I convened the heads of the security establishment and ordered, first of all, to clear out the communities that have been infiltrated by terrorists. This currently is being carried out."
Netanyahu has ordered the mobilization of reserves. He called on citizens of Israel to adhere to the directives of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Home Front Command. "At the same time, I have ordered an extensive mobilization of reserves and that we return fire of a magnitude that the enemy has not known. The enemy will pay an unprecedented price. In the meantime, I call on the citizens of Israel to strictly adhere to the directives of the IDF and Home Front Command. We are at war and we will win it," Netanyahu said. The death toll in Israel from the Hamas rocket fire rose to 22, The Times of Israel reported. At least 22 people have been killed since Hamas terror group began its attacks, according to Magen David Adom emergency service. The spokesperson further said that more than 70 people have been injured. The Israel Defence Forces on Saturday launched operation 'Iron Swords' in response to Hamas's surprise attack on Israel, the Times of Israel reported.  In response to the barrages of rockets launched by Hamas from Gaza at Israel, the IDF is currently striking Hamas targets in Gaza," Israel Defense Forces said in a post on 'X'. The Israeli military is fighting Hamas terrorists in different locations in Southern Israel near the border with the Gaza Strip, including the towns of Kfar Aza, Sderot, Sufa, Nahal Oz, Magen, Be'eri and the Re'im military base. IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated that over 2200 rockets were fired into Israel since 6:30 am on Saturday, the report said. The firing took place for more than 3.5 hours.Hagari said that Hamas terrorists infiltrated from land, sea and air. He further added that the re are at least seven sites of fighting between Hamas and IDF troops. Israel's military is expecting to draft tens of thousands of soldiers, the report said. Hamas claimed to have kidnapped five IDF soldiers.  Israel Defence Minister Yoav Gallant approved the draft of reserve soldiers in accordance with the Isreael Defence Force's requirements.He further announced a "special security situation" in Israel's Homefront, within a 0-80 km radius of the Gaza Strip, The Jerusalem Post reported, adding that this further enabled the IDF to provide civilians with safety instructions at "close and relevant sites". The daily reported earlier that after a barrage of rocket fire from the Gaza Strip, Hamas fighters infiltrated Israel. Following the attack, red alert warning sirens were activated in Tel Aviv, located around 70 kilometres from the Gaza Strip, as well as, Sde Boker, Arad, and Dimona in the south.
—ANI

In his first reaction after Hamas launched a "surprise attack", Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday

"We are at war and we will win": Israel PM Netanyahu after Hamas attack

Tel Aviv [Israel]: The Israel Defence Forces confirmed the death of Corporal Noa Marciano, who was abducted by the Hamas terror group during the October 7 attacks, Times of Israel reported. The body of Marciano, 19, was recovered by the troops of the 7th Armored Brigade's 603rd Battalion, from a building adjacent to Shifa Hospital, following intelligence information provided by the Shin Bet security agency.
The IDF said that her body was then brought to Israel for identification. The body of the hostage has been found at a time when troops continue to search for terror infrastructure in the hospital complex. Marciano (19) was serving at the Nahal Oz IDF base when it was overrun by Hamas terrorists at the time of the attack on southern Israel on October 7. She lived in Modiin and was the oldest of three siblings, according to The Times of Israel report. On Monday evening, Hamas shared a propaganda video of Marciano, showing her speaking to the camera four days after being taken hostage, identifying herself and reciting the names of her parents and her hometown. The video then showed her body, according to The Times of Israel report. The Israeli Army said that soldiers have found the body of an Israeli hostage near Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza, CNN reported. Yehudit Weiss was kidnapped from the kibbutz of Be'eri on October 7.  The Israeli army said that the body was found in what they called a "structure" near the medical facility. It did not give details on how she died. Furthermore, it is not clear what condition the structure was in when the soldiers found the body, according to CNN report. The Israeli army has said that the body of Weiss has been brought back to Israel and the family is aware of it. Israeli military spokesperson said Yehudit Weiss was killed by Hamas. However, it did not reveal the cause of her death. Addressing a televised briefing, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said, "Unfortunately, Yehudit was murdered by the terrorists in the Gaza Strip, and we didn't reach her on time," CNN reported. The Hostages and Missing Person's Families Forum said Yehudit Weiss was a 65-year-old grandmother. It further said that Weiss' husband Shmuel was killed in Hamas' attack against Israel on October 7.  Hamas and Israel are reportedly engaged in preliminary discussions aimed at reaching a deal for the release of hostages. The proposed agreement specifically focuses on the potential release of around 50 women and children among the 240 hostages currently held by Hamas in Gaza, The Washington Post reported citing an Arab diplomat familiar with the negotiations. Israel is said to be evaluating the proposal, which entails a three-to-five-day halt in fighting, an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza, and the release of an unspecified number of women and children held in Israeli prisons, according to the report. Meanwhile, Israel Defence Forces said operations in the Gaza Strip continued overnight, with fighter jets striking at Hamas sites and soldiers fighting Hamas terrorists, The Times of Israel reported. The IDF said that it conducted airstrikes against "many" Hamas sites, including weapons storage facilities and against terror operatives. Earlier, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said that a Hamas terrorist tunnel was uncovered in the Shifa Hospital complex in Gaza. According to IDF, Israeli troops found another terrorist tunnel in the Rantisi Hospital. It further said that a large amount of weaponry and ammunition were found in the Al-Quds Hospital. In a post shared on X, IDF stated, "Exposing another layer of Hamas' exploitation of three of the largest hospitals in Gaza: Inside the Shifa Hospital complex, a Hamas terrorist tunnel was uncovered." In another post, it stated, "Inside the Rantisi Hospital, yet another terrorist tunnel was unearthed by IDF troops." Taking to X, IDF shared pictures of weapons and ammunition found in what they said was the Al-Quds Hospital. "Inside the Al-Quds Hospital, a large amount of weaponry and ammunition were found. This was all found over the past 24 hours," IDF posted on X.
—ANI

The Israel Defence Forces confirmed the death of Corporal Noa Marciano, who was abducted by the Hamas terror group during the October 7

Israel Defence Force recovers body of Corporal abducted by Hamas from Gaza Strip

Tel Aviv: The World Health Organization (WHO) officials who have visited Gaza's Al-Shifa hospital said that the hospital has become a "death zone". WHO and other UN agencies that visited the hospital said that they are in the process of evacuating the patients there.  The Israeli army has said that Hamas operatives have to be evacuated from Al-Shifa hospital premises. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have been maintaining that Al-Shifa hospital premises has been working as a command centre for Hamas and that an underground tunnel network is operated from this hospital premises even though the hospital authorities and Gaza's Ministry of Health vehemently denied it.  The Israeli army has also recovered the dead bodies of two women hostages near Al-Shifa hospital, indicating that the hospital premises was used as a place to keep the hostages kidnapped from Israel on October 7.  It may be noted that the IDF has said that it has recovered several arms and ammunition and military equipment from within the hospital as well as from nearby buildings.  The ground invasion that commenced on October 27 in retaliation to the massacre and mayhem of October 7 has led to more than 12,000 Palestinians losing their life. Several soldiers including senior officers were also killed on both sides.
—IANS

The World Health Organization (WHO) officials who have visited Gaza's Al-Shifa hospital said that the hospital has become a "death zone".

WHO visits Al-Shifa hospital, calls it 'death zone'

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India]: The Gujarat State Police detained the Australian spectator who was supporting Palestine and breached security and hugged Virat Kohli during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final between India and Australia at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The man has been brought to the Chandkheda Police Station in Ahmedabad.
The man who breached the security and entered the field during India vs Australia Final match said, "My name is John...I am from Australia. I entered (the field) to meet Virat Kohli. I support Palestine..."
<a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/1726193680955080875?s=20" target="_self">https://x.com/ANI/status/1726193680955080875?s=20</a>&nbsp;
A security breach took place during the India vs Australia World Cup final at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium. In a massive security breach, a Palestinian supporter invaded the field and hugged Virat Kohli during the 14th over of India's innings; however, he was quickly removed by the security. The Palestinian supporter was wearing a T-shirt with a free Palestine slogan and a mask with a Palestinian flag colour theme as he invaded the field during the ongoing final match.  The Israel-Hamas war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise assault on southern Israel. Hamas launched at least 5,000 rockets from Gaza, killing around 1,400 Israelis. Hamas also took many Israeli soldiers and civilians hostage in the Gaza Strip. Israel responded with retaliatory strikes and declared war on Hamas the following day. The Israeli military began an offensive on the Palestinian enclave. Amid deafening noise at a full house at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Australia skipper Pat Cummins won the toss and opted to bowl first against India in the World Cup final on Sunday. The Indian team waltzed into the final unbeaten after playing 10 games, chasing five of the matches while defending totals in five. On the other hand, Australia, after losing two games on the bounce at the start of the tournament, recovered to win eight consecutive matches thereafter to reach the final.  India will be looking to lift their third World Cup title, while Australia will be aiming to clinch their sixth trophy. Australia (Playing XI): Travis Head, David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis (w), Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (c), Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood. India (Playing XI): Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (w), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj.
—ANI

The Gujarat State Police detained the Australian spectator who was supporting Palestine and breached security and hugged Virat Kohli 

World Cup Final: Australian spectator who breached security to meet Virat Kohli detained by Gujarat Police

Tel Aviv: On November 20, which is also the World Children's Day, an Israeli woman remembers her nephew and nieces who are kidnapped and in custody of the Hamas terror group.  Limor Sella Broyde, whose eight close family members are in the custody of Hamas, during an interaction with IANS spoke about her family members who are in Hamas' custody.  Those who have held hostage by Hamas are Shoshan Haran (68), her Husband Avshalom Haran (67), their daughter Adi (38) who is a psychologist, her husband, Tal and their two children, Yahel Neri (3) and Naveh (8).  Avshalom Haran's sister Sharon Avigdori who is a special needs psychologist and her 12 year old daughter Noam are in the custody of Hamas.  Here are some excerpts of the interaction.  IANS: There are reports of hostages being released soon, Your comments?  Limor: There are reports every other day. It feels like psychological warfare. We wont believe it until we see our loved one's back home.  IANS: Has the government of Israel taken up the issue of hostages properly?  Limor: As long as 240 people are still in Gaza, (I doubt) no they have not. We feel the priorities must change. the only goal has to be bringing them back home. Everything else must come later.  IANS: How has the world responded to your trauma?  Limor: We have never seen such extremes. We see a lot of fake news about what happened on October 7. Over 1,200 people were massacred, some in their homes, in front of their children... 240 people were taken hostages by a terror organisastion. The world needs to understand. It has nothing to do with the conflict and everything to do with a humanitarian crime.  IANS: Is the Jewish community being targeted across the world?  Limor: It is. We hear terrible things from our communities world wide.  IANS: The National Security Minister of Israel, Ben-Givr has said that fuel should not have been given to Gaza given the issue of hostages custody. Your comment?  Limor: It is a complicated issue. The past shows us that Hamas is taking resources from the civilians in Gaza to support their terror activities.  IANS: Do you feel that the highlight is only on the IDF invasion and the death of Palestinians? Is there a deliberate attempt to cover the Hamas massacre of October 7?  Limor: The highlight should be the war crimes and humanitarian crimes of Hamas. Our children must come back home. The world has to do anything in its power to support this cause.
—IANS

On November 20, which is also the World Children's Day, an Israeli woman remembers her nephew and nieces who are kidnapped and in custody

'Israel govt should for now focus only on getting hostages freed'

Tel Aviv: Hamas's politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh on Tueday claimed that it militant group is “close to reaching a truce agreement” with Israel regarding the release of hostages captured on October 7 following the assault on the Jewish nation.  Haniyeh’s remarks came after Hamas communicated its desire for the truce to mediators in Qatar.  “The movement delivered its response to the brothers in Qatar and the mediators, and we are close to reaching a truce agreement,” Haniyeh said.  The senior Hamas leader however, did not provide any other details on the said agreement.  According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), around 70 per cent of the militant group's top leadership has been killed in the military's ongoing ground offensive in Gaza.  But it is yet to be seen if Israel agrees for a truce, including the swapping of Palestinian prisoners.  The Israel government is also under pressure from the families of the hostages.  According to authorities, 237 people are held captive in Gaza, including Israelis and foreign nationals.  On Monday, the Israeli military spokesperson said that 40 of the hostages are children.  So far, four civilian hostages have been released by Hamas; one Israeli soldier was rescued by the forces; and three bodies of hostages have reportedly been retrieved.
—IANS

Hamas's politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh on Tueday claimed that it militant group is “close to reaching a truce agreement” with Israel

Hamas leader claims close to reaching truce agreement for hostage release

Tel Aviv: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Tuesday said that it has surrounded Jabalya region of the Gaza Strip which is considered one of the strongholds of Hamas. The IDF in a statement said that its artillery unit from the 215th brigade and also its air strikes have helped encircle the region. "The IDF has destroyed the terror infrastructure with combined attacks from the ground as well as from the air," it added. The statement noted that combat forces from the 551st division along with special forces opened the path for the other battalions to enter Jabalya and also to thwart the attack from Hamas men. "The IDF destroyed several tunnel shafts and captured many buildings from which Hamas had operated after killing many members of the terror outfit," the statement added. The IDF launched the ground invasion of the Gaza Strip on October 27 and has now reached the Gaza main area and has taken control of the Al-Shifa hospital complex which it claimed was the centre of Hamas operations including its underground tunnel network.
—IANS

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Tuesday said that it has surrounded Jabalya region of the Gaza Strip which is considered one of the strongholds of Hamas.

IDF surrounds Gaza's Jabalya region

Tel Aviv: The Israeli Cabinet has agreed to a four-day ceasefire and a deal with the Hamas to secure the release of 50 hostages, including women and children, being held in Gaza since the war erupted on October 7.  However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the Cabinet meeting late Tuesday night that the country will not stop the war.  In a statement, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office said under the deal, the release of every additional 10 hostages will extend the pause in fighting by a day  On Wednesday morning, the Hamas said that 150 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails will be released as part of the deal re.  The prisoners are women and children, the statement said.  The deal also involves the entry of hundreds of trucks carrying aid relief, medical supplies and fuel to all parts of Gaza, the Hamas statement added.  According to an earlier IANS report, the release of first group of hostages will take place soon.  Qatar and the US have been involved in active mediatory talks with both Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire.  Those opposed to the truce warned the Israeli Cabinet that this partial hostage deal would derail the process of securing all those in captivity and that it would complicate the military offensive against the militant group in Gaza.  Netanyahu however dismissed the scepticism and said: “ We are at war and continue to be at war until our objectives are met including destroy Hamas and all our captives are released.”  Wednesday's development comes more than a week after a major breakthrough was reached on November 12 when the Hamas -- after refusing for days -- had relented in offering identifying information about several dozen hostages, such as their age, gender and nationalities.  The information confirmed that numerous children and toddlers had been taken captive on October 7.  Israeli authorities have said that there are at least 236 hostages being held in Gaza.
—IANS

The Israeli Cabinet has agreed to a four-day ceasefire and a deal with the Hamas to secure the release of 50 hostages

Israel agrees to 4-day ceasefire, Hamas to release 50 hostages

Doha: Qatar, which helped broker an agreement between Israel and Hamas for a four-day humanitarian pause in their ongoing war in Gaza, announced on Wednesday that the effective date of the ceasefire will be announced within 24 hours.  The "starting time of the pause will be announced within the next 24 hours", the BBC quoted the Qatar government as saying in a statement.  The pause will then last for four days, the statement said, adding that it will be "subject to extension".  The latest development comes after the Israeli cabinet -- after a lengthy meeting that ran into the early hours of Wednesday -- approved the agreement with Hamas to secure the release of 50 hostages being held in Gaza since the October 7 attack.  "The government of Israel is obligated to return home all of the hostages... The government has approved the outline of the first stage of achieving this goal, according to which at least 50 hostages – women and children – will be released over four days, during which a pause in the fighting will be held," the Israeli Prime Minister's Office said in a statement.  "The release of every additional 10 hostages will result in one additional day in the pause. The government of Israel, the IDF and the security services will continue the war in order to return home all of the hostages, complete the elimination of Hamas and ensure that there will be no new threat to the State of Israel from Gaza," it added.  The agreement will also allow hundreds of lorries of humanitarian, medical and fuel aid to enter all parts of the Gaza Strip via Egypt's Rafah crossing.  Those opposed to the truce however, warned the Israeli Cabinet that this partial hostage deal would derail the process of securing all those in captivity and that it would complicate the military offensive against the militant group in Gaza.  Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu however dismissed the scepticism and said: “ We are at war and continue to be at war until our objectives are met including destroy Hamas and all our captives are released.”  Meanwhile, an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman said on Wednesday morning that the military is still working out details for the pause in fighting included in the hostage release deal.  IDF spokesperson Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus told CNN: "Until we are told to do so by the Israeli government, we will continue fighting Hamas and when such a deal will come into effect, we will respect that. But we will be very vigilant on the ground."  The spokesman also warned that he feared Hamas will use the pause in fighting to resupply and regroup.  "Of course we would rather continue to apply pressure on Hamas. But this pause is for a very important cause. I can assure that we will be respectful of any agreement, that we will honor the commitments made by the Israeli government," he told CNN.  Hailing the move, US President Joe Biden said in a statement that “I welcome the deal to secure the release of hostages taken by the terrorist group Hamas during its brutal assault against Israel on October 7".  “Jill and I have been keeping all those held hostage and their loved ones close to our hearts these many weeks, and I am extraordinarily gratified that some of these brave souls, who have endured weeks of captivity and an unspeakable ordeal, will be reunited with their families once this deal is fully implemented.  “Today’s deal should bring home additional American hostages, and I will not stop until they are all released," the statement added.  Wednesday's development comes more than a week after a major breakthrough was reached on November 12 when the Hamas -- after refusing for days -- had relented in offering identifying information about several dozen hostages, such as their age, gender and nationalities.  The information confirmed that numerous children and toddlers had been taken captive on October 7.  Israeli authorities have said that there are at least 236 hostages being held in Gaza  —IANS

Qatar, which helped broker an agreement between Israel and Hamas for a four-day humanitarian pause in their ongoing war in Gaza

Effective date for Gaza humanitarian pause to be announced within 24 hours: Qatar

Washington DC [US]: United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday 22 morning expressed his welcoming of the deal to accept a ceasefire in return for 50 hostage held by the Hamas militant group, sharing his gratitude to the acceptance of a ceasefire. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office issued a statement on Wednesday, confirming roughly 50 hostages abducted by the Hamas terror group in Gaza during the October 7 attack, will be released, reported The Times of Israel.
A post shared on Netanyahu's X, formerly Twitter, page stated, "Tonight, the Government has approved the outline of the first stage of achieving this goal, according to which at least 50 hostages - women and children - will be released over four days, during which a pause in the fighting will be held." Similarly, the US President, taking to his social media X, declared that he was glad the deal was secured, adding that he was grateful that the hostages will be reunited with their families. "I welcome the deal to secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas during its brutal assault against Israel on October 7th." The US president said. "I'm gratified that these brave souls, who have endured an unspeakable ordeal, will be reunited with their families once this deal is fully implemented." The US President expressed his gratitude to regional partners, who were "critical" in ensuring the deal was passed.  Biden shared on X, "I thank Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar and President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt for their critical partnership in reaching this deal. And I appreciate Prime Minister Netanyahu's commitment in supporting an extended pause to ensure this deal can be fully carried out" US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken further added, "We welcome the release of 50 hostages, including Americans, from captivity in Gaza. I thank Qatar and Egypt for their partnership, and appreciate Israel's support for a humanitarian pause that will allow additional humanitarian aid to reach Palestinians in Gaza." Although a ceasefire has been permitted, the ongoing Gaza conflict has not come to an end, Netanyahu has stated, "The Israeli government, the IDF and the security forces will continue the war to return all the abductees, complete the elimination of Hamas and ensure that Gaza does not renew any threat to the State of Israel." Hamas have agreed to allow 50 hostages to return, however, there are still roughly 150 who will be under Hamas control, with over 200 hostages being abducted during the October 7 offensive into Israel. The US President says that he "will not stop until they are all released", claiming that he has "no higher priority than ensuring the safety of Americans held hostage", in a post shared on X.
—ANI

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday 22 morning expressed his welcoming of the deal to accept a ceasefire in return for 50 hostage

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