Tens of thousands of Israelis gathered in central Israel on Tuesday to honor Lt. Hadar Goldin, whose body had been held in Gaza for 11 years. Goldin, killed in the 2014 Israel-Hamas war, was finally returned on Sunday, offering closure for his family amid a long, public campaign for his remains.

Funeral and Public Mourning

The funeral in Kfar Saba drew massive crowds, overflowing the cemetery and surrounding streets. Attendees, holding Israeli flags, stood in solemn tribute to the 23-year-old soldier, whose remains had been the only Israeli bodies still held in Gaza prior to the current Israel-Hamas war.

Goldin was killed two hours after a ceasefire in the 2014 Gaza conflict. For years, public campaigns featuring posters of Goldin and another soldier, Oron Shaul, who was also captured in 2014, kept attention on the families’ efforts to bring the soldiers home.

Family Reflection and Criticism

Goldin’s parents expressed the “many disappointments” experienced over 11 years of campaigning. They emphasized that it was Israel’s military, not political leaders, that ultimately facilitated the return of their son’s remains.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged the family’s suffering, stating that holding the body for so long had caused “great agony of his family, which will now be able to give him a Jewish burial.” Israel recovered Shaul’s remains earlier in 2025.

Leah Goldin, Hadar’s mother, described the struggle as part of Israel’s social contract with its citizens, underscoring the legal and moral obligation to recover soldiers. She noted that her son, an artist recently engaged, had been abandoned, violating both humanitarian and family rights.

Military Efforts to Recover Goldin

Following Goldin’s death, Israel launched a high-intensity military operation under the “Hannibal” directive, a protocol allowing extreme measures to prevent the capture of soldiers. Heavy shelling, tank fire, and airstrikes targeted areas of southern Rafah in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 110 Palestinians.

Palestinian witnesses reported indiscriminate shelling and chaos as residents fled their homes. Human rights groups identified 121 fatalities during these operations and accused Israel of using disproportionate force against civilians. In response to criticism, Israel canceled the Hannibal directive in 2016, later replacing it with a revised version in 2017.

2014 Gaza War Casualties

The broader 2014 conflict between Israel and Hamas lasted 50 days, resulting in over 2,200 Palestinian deaths, including hundreds of civilians, and widespread damage to Gaza’s infrastructure. Israeli casualties included 73 fatalities. The war left deep humanitarian and political scars, forming the context for ongoing tensions and disputes over captured soldiers.

Looking Ahead

The return and burial of Goldin offer symbolic closure for his family and the Israeli public, though four hostages taken in the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack remain in Gaza. Analysts note that the episode highlights the continuing human cost of long-term conflicts and the challenges of balancing military objectives with civilian protection in densely populated conflict zones.

Source: AP News – Tens of thousands of Israelis attend funeral of soldier whose remains were held in Gaza for 11 years

The post Tens of Thousands Attend Funeral for Israeli Soldier Returned After 11 Years in Gaza appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

A video shared on Hamas-affiliated social media channels — and verified by CNN to have been filmed in the al-Sabra neighborhood of western Gaza City — depicts armed men, some wearing green Hamas headbands, shooting eight blindfolded detainees in front of a crowd. The identities of the victims remain unconfirmed.

Though the timing of the incident has not been independently verified, damage to nearby buildings indicates it occurred after the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, when Israeli forces had already withdrawn from the area.

Public Executions Stir Outrage and Fear

The footage shows detainees — all adult men — being dragged into a public square, some partially stripped and barefoot, with their hands bound behind their backs. Several appear to be beaten before being lined up and executed by firing squad. Fighters can be heard cheering after the shootings.

Human rights organizations and Palestinian authorities have condemned the incident.

The office of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas called the killings “heinous crimes” and “a blatant violation of human rights.”

The Independent Commission for Human Rights (ICHR), a national watchdog based in Ramallah, described the executions as “grave legal and moral crimes that require urgent condemnation and accountability.”

Hamas Defends the Killings as ‘Security Operations’

In stark contrast, a coalition of armed factions known as the Palestinian Resistance Factions, which includes Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, praised what it termed a “security campaign” carried out by Gaza’s Ministry of Interior and National Security.

The Hamas-linked Radaa security force claimed responsibility, saying it had “neutralized several wanted individuals and outlaws” and that “all legal and judicial procedures” had been completed — a statement widely disputed by observers and rights groups.

Radaa accused the men of collaborating with Israel or engaging in “security and criminal offenses,” but offered no evidence to support the claims.

The group also said it was conducting “wide-ranging operations across Gaza” to arrest “collaborators and individuals operating outside the law.”

Local Clashes and Family Feuds Erupt

The executions appear to have occurred amid days of violent clashes between Hamas forces and the Doghmush family, a powerful clan based in the al-Sabra and Tel al-Hawa neighborhoods.

According to the Al-Mezan Center for Human Rights, gun battles broke out after Hamas security units attempted to arrest suspected collaborators, resulting in casualties on both sides.

The Doghmush family, in a statement, condemned what it described as a “campaign of intimidation, torture, and house burnings” by Hamas, claiming 28 of its members were executed after being promised safety guarantees.

“What is happening today is a heinous crime committed against a family known for its steadfastness and rejection of collaboration,” the family said, adding that it had already lost hundreds of members during Israel’s military operations.

Regional and International Response

The Israeli Foreign Ministry reposted the execution footage online, saying it proved why “Hamas must go.” The video has since spread widely across social media, drawing condemnation and deepening international concerns about Gaza’s internal instability.

The incident also comes just days after U.S. President Donald Trump appeared to confirm that his administration had approved Hamas’ role in policing Gaza “for a period of time” following the ceasefire he helped broker between Israel and the group.

“They do want to stop the problems. They’ve been open about it and we gave them approval for a period of time,” Trump said while traveling to the Middle East earlier this week.

Israel, meanwhile, has pressed for the complete disarmament of Hamas as part of any final ceasefire arrangement — a demand that could further complicate security dynamics within the territory.

Gaza’s Fragile Post-War Landscape

The scenes from al-Sabra underscore the fragile state of Gaza’s internal governance following months of war and destruction. With Israeli troops pulling back from several neighborhoods, Hamas appears intent on reestablishing dominance through public displays of power and retribution.

Human rights groups have warned that such acts risk deepening divisions among Palestinian factions and could derail postwar reconstruction efforts if law and order devolve into factional violence.

While Hamas maintains that its operations target “collaborators” and “criminals,” the absence of transparent judicial oversight and the use of public executions raise serious concerns about extrajudicial killings and abuse of power.

Source: CNN – Masked Hamas fighters seen executing men in Gaza City as the group fights with rival powers

The post Masked Hamas Fighters Seen Executing Men in Gaza City Amid Power Struggle After Ceasefire appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Israeli Forces Report Attack in Rafah

Israeli officials said Sunday that Hamas fighters launched rocket-propelled grenades and sniper fire at Israeli troops in Rafah, southern Gaza, prompting retaliatory airstrikes in the area. The incident occurred nine days into the U.S.-brokered ceasefire aimed at halting nearly two years of war.

According to a senior Israeli military source, several soldiers were injured in the assault, which took place beyond the so-called Yellow Line, the boundary marking the initial Israeli withdrawal under the ceasefire agreement.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held an emergency security meeting with Defense Minister Israel Katz and senior military commanders following the incident. Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, a far-right member of the cabinet, urged Netanyahu to “resume the war in Gaza in full force.”

Hamas Denies Ceasefire Breach

Hamas has not officially confirmed or denied involvement in the Rafah attack. However, senior official Izzat al-Rishq said on Telegram that the group remains committed to the ceasefire and accused Israel of “fabricating weak pretexts to justify its crimes.”

The militant group claimed its internal Rada’a security forces were operating nearby to target what it described as a “hideout” of a militia led by Yasser Abu Shabab, reportedly armed and supported by Israel.

In June, Israeli officials acknowledged providing weapons and logistical support to several such Gaza-based militias in an effort to counter Hamas’s influence in the territory.

Analysts Warn of Volatile Situation

Analysts say the latest confrontation highlights the precarious nature of the ceasefire and the deep divisions within Gaza.

Muhammad Shehada, a Gaza analyst with the European Council on Foreign Relations, said these Israel-backed militias operate from within zones under Israeli control. “They descend into other areas of Gaza, carry out attacks, and retreat to protected zones,” Shehada explained.

He added that such tactics blur the lines of responsibility and make it difficult to assess who is violating the truce.

Ceasefire Strained by Internal Gaza Clashes

Since the ceasefire took effect, Hamas has intensified what it calls a “security campaign” targeting collaborators, mercenaries, and rival factions across Gaza. The campaign has triggered several violent confrontations, including a widely condemned public execution of eight people in Gaza City, witnessed by large crowds.

The clashes between Hamas and local groups have deepened instability in the enclave, already devastated by months of warfare.

Mutual Accusations of Violations

Both sides have accused each other of undermining the ceasefire.

Israel has reported several incidents involving Palestinians approaching the Yellow Line, claiming they posed a security threat. Hamas labeled these shootings a “flagrant violation” of the truce.

Meanwhile, Israel has accused Hamas of failing to fulfill its obligations under the ceasefire agreement, including the return of the bodies of deceased hostages. As a result, Israel temporarily closed a key border crossing used for humanitarian aid and trade.

Diplomatic Pressure to Maintain Truce

The United States and Egypt, key mediators in the ceasefire deal, have urged both sides to exercise restraint. Washington has called the Rafah exchange a “serious concern” and warned that renewed hostilities would “set back humanitarian relief efforts and regional stability.”

Egyptian officials, speaking anonymously to local media, said they are “working intensively” with both parties to de-escalate tensions and prevent the ceasefire from collapsing.

The Stakes for Gaza and Israel

The ceasefire, brokered after months of negotiations, was intended to halt hostilities that began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.

According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, more than 67,600 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict began. The ministry, part of the Hamas-run administration, does not distinguish between civilian and militant casualties, but its data is generally regarded as credible by the United Nations and independent humanitarian groups.

Analysts say that a breakdown in the ceasefire could reignite widespread fighting, derail hostage recovery efforts, and further strain Israel’s relations with its international allies.

Outlook: A Fragile Peace Under Threat

While Sunday’s clash does not yet signal a full-scale return to war, it underscores how fragile the ceasefire remains amid deep mistrust and competing security claims.

For Gaza’s civilians, the resumption of airstrikes and internal violence raises fears that the promised period of calm may once again give way to chaos.

Israel’s government has vowed to respond “proportionally” to any attacks, while Hamas insists it is upholding the agreement. With neither side willing to appear weak, the coming days will determine whether this truce endures—or collapses under the weight of mutual suspicion.

 Stay informed with JournosNews.com — your trusted source for verified global reporting and in-depth analysis. Follow us on Google News and BlueSky for real-time updates.

Source: CNN – Israel accuses Hamas of attacking Israeli forces in Gaza in first major test of ceasefire

The post Israel Accuses Hamas of Attacking Troops in Rafah, Testing Fragile Gaza Ceasefire appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Published: October 13, 2025, 21:45 EDT

The long-awaited transfer of Israeli hostages from Gaza has begun, marking a critical moment in the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) confirmed that its teams had received the first group of hostages in Gaza before facilitating their transport to Israeli custody.

According to officials involved in the operation, the initial handover took place in northern Gaza, where the hostages were transferred to Red Cross vehicles for medical and security checks before being moved to Israeli-controlled areas.

Red Cross Confirms Hostage Transfer Operations Underway

The ICRC said its teams reached the first collection point in Gaza early Monday to oversee the safe transfer of hostages as part of the humanitarian arrangement.
“The ICRC will not release footage of the hostages or detainees out of respect for their dignity and safety,” the organization said in a statement.

Israeli media outlets, including Haaretz and Channel 12, reported that the first seven hostages were handed over to Red Cross officials. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed preparations were in place to receive the returnees at southern Israel’s Re’im military base, where they would undergo medical evaluation before reuniting with their families.

Families Await Reunions as First Names Confirmed

Among those confirmed for release is Guy Gilboa-Dalal, whose father told Haaretz that his son was now in Red Cross custody and would be handed to Israeli forces “within minutes.”

“This is a dream come true,” said Ilan Dalal. “We are euphoric, very excited, and dying to hug him.”

In Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, hundreds of relatives and supporters gathered to follow the developments in real time. Many carried Israeli and U.S. flags, while large digital screens broadcast live updates from Gaza. “Today all Israelis are together—it’s not about left or right,” said 17-year-old Yarden, who joined the early morning vigil.

Exchange Terms: 20 Hostages for Over 1,700 Palestinian Detainees

Under the terms of the ceasefire agreement, 20 Israeli hostages believed to be alive are being freed in exchange for 1,718 Palestinian prisoners and detainees from Gaza and the West Bank.

According to the Hamas-run Prisoners Media Office, the list of Palestinian detainees includes women, minors, and prisoners affiliated with Hamas who were not serving life sentences. Israeli media reported that several adjustments were made overnight to the final list, including replacing minors with adult detainees.

In return, the released hostages will undergo medical care and psychological assessment before being reunited with their families. Israeli emergency services, including Magen David Adom, said paramedics and trauma units were on standby across key military and hospital locations.

Emotional Scenes in Tel Aviv and Southern Israel

In Re’im base, relatives of hostages gathered from early morning, waiting anxiously for the first military convoys. “It’s very emotional and moving,” said Rotem Cooper, whose father was killed in captivity while his mother was freed weeks earlier.

Elsewhere in Tel Aviv, billboards displayed messages reading “Thank You President Trump” and “Peace Upon Israel.” Observers say the deal represents a diplomatic milestone, facilitated by Washington and regional partners including Egypt and Qatar.

Trump Hails ‘End of the War’ Ahead of Middle East Summit

U.S. President Donald Trump declared “the war is over” as he prepared to address Israel’s Knesset before heading to Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, where a peace summit will convene later this week.

At least 20 world leaders, including U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, are expected to attend. Starmer’s office confirmed plans to announce a £20 million humanitarian aid package for Gaza during the summit.

The U.S. administration described the hostages’ release as a “humanitarian breakthrough” that underscores Washington’s renewed influence in brokering Middle East stability.

UN Confirms Surge in Humanitarian Aid to Gaza

The United Nations reported a “promised surge” of food and medical supplies reaching Gaza in the past 24 hours. Humanitarian convoys have distributed hundreds of thousands of hot meals and loaves of bread in coordination with local NGOs.

Despite the ceasefire, sporadic violence has been reported as Hamas police patrol areas of Gaza to contain unrest and clashes with armed groups. Israeli officials said an international task force will begin work to locate and identify the remains of deceased hostages not yet returned within the 72-hour deadline.

Reunion Kits Prepared for Released Hostages

A symbolic gesture from Israeli leaders will accompany the homecoming: each freed hostage will receive a personal kit that includes clothing, a mobile phone, a tablet, and a handwritten note from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Sara Netanyahu.

“On behalf of the entire people of Israel, welcome back,” the letter reads. “We have been waiting for you, we embrace you.”

The government said the note represents the country’s collective gratitude and resilience after nearly two years of captivity for many of those released.

Ongoing Verification and Security Coordination

The IDF said air force helicopters remain on standby to transport hostages requiring urgent care to hospitals across Israel. Officials emphasized that the timing and route of each transfer remain subject to change for security reasons.

While international monitors welcomed the exchange, analysts noted that sustainable peace will depend on continued diplomatic engagement beyond the immediate humanitarian relief.

“This moment brings immense relief, but the region still faces deep political challenges,” said Tamar Ben-Ami, a regional analyst at the Jerusalem Institute for Security Studies. “The success of this exchange will be measured not just by who comes home, but by whether it leads to lasting calm.”

This report includes verified information from Reuters, AP News, Haaretz, ICRC, United Nations, and official Israeli government statements as of October 13, 2025.

Source: BBC Live Update –Handover of Israeli hostages begins in Gaza

The post Israeli Hostages Handed to Red Cross as Gaza Exchange Process Begins appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Published: October 13, 2025, 21:45 EDT

Anticipation has grown across Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank as a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas holds ahead of a critical day of hostages, prisoners, and humanitarian releases. The developments come as U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to visit Israel and Egypt, marking a high-stakes diplomatic moment for the region.

Hostage Release Expected Monday

Israel said Sunday that it expects the release of 20 living hostages held in Gaza since the October 7, 2023 attacks, when Hamas-led militants killed around 1,200 Israelis and abducted about 250 people. The hostages will be handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross before being transferred to the Israeli military’s Reim base for medical evaluation and family reunions.

Officials have prepared ambulances in case urgent medical care is required following more than two years of captivity. The remains of up to 28 other hostages are not expected to be returned at the same time, although Israel stated that “an international body” will assist in locating and recovering them if not released within 72 hours, as stipulated in the ceasefire terms.

Palestinian Prisoners Set for Mass Release

As part of the truce deal, Israel is set to release approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including 1,700 detainees captured during the war and held without formal charges. Another 250 prisoners serving sentences will also be freed.

The group includes members of Hamas and Fatah involved in violent attacks against Israelis, as well as individuals convicted of lesser offenses. Many will return to Gaza or the West Bank, while some could face exile depending on the final terms of the exchange.

It remains unclear which prisoners will be allowed to return directly to Gaza or whether certain individuals will be deported under international supervision.

Humanitarian Aid Surge Planned for Gaza

International aid agencies said they are preparing to significantly increase humanitarian deliveries to Gaza as part of the ceasefire framework. On Sunday, around 400 trucks carrying food and supplies from Egypt awaited Israeli inspection before entering the enclave.

Israel’s defense body overseeing aid operations confirmed that the number will soon rise to 600 trucks per day. The goal is to alleviate severe shortages and widespread hunger in the territory, where famine conditions have been documented by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC).

The IPC reported in August that Gaza City was already experiencing famine, with the crisis projected to spread south toward Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis if restrictions were not eased. Rebuilding efforts remain daunting, with much of Gaza reduced to rubble and more than two million residents displaced.

Trump’s Visit and Regional Diplomacy

President Trump, who played a key role in securing the ceasefire, is scheduled to arrive in Israel on Monday morning. His visit will include meetings with families of hostages and an address to the Knesset, Israel’s parliament.

A large U.S. flag draped Jerusalem’s City Hall complex on Sunday night, while American and Israeli flags were projected onto the walls of the Old City. After his meetings in Israel, Trump will travel to Egypt to attend a regional “peace summit” alongside Middle Eastern and international leaders. He is expected to return to Washington by early Tuesday.

Ceasefire Faces Unresolved Challenges

Despite optimism over the ceasefire and upcoming releases, several key disputes remain unresolved. Israel insists that Hamas must disarm completely, while Hamas demands a full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.

The question of Gaza’s long-term governance also looms large. Hamas has controlled the enclave for nearly two decades, and discussions continue about potential transitional administration models involving Palestinian and international authorities.

Gaza’s Health Ministry, which operates under Hamas, reports that over 67,600 Palestinians have been killed since the war began, about half of them women and children. While Israel disputes these figures, the United Nations and independent analysts regard the ministry’s statistics as the most comprehensive available estimate of casualties to date.

Path Ahead: Fragile Hope Amid Deep Division

The coming days are expected to test whether the ceasefire can evolve into a sustainable peace process or collapse under mutual mistrust. For now, families across both sides — waiting for hostages, prisoners, and news of their loved ones — are clinging to cautious hope that this fragile moment of calm might endure.

Source: AP News – What to know as Israel and Gaza await the release of hostages, prisoners, aid — and Trump’s visit

The post Israel, Gaza Brace for Hostage and Prisoner Releases as Ceasefire Holds Ahead of Trump Visit appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Published: October 7, 2025, 22:15 EDT

Israel and the Palestinian territories marked two years since Hamas’ October 7, 2023 assault triggered one of the deadliest and most consequential wars in the region’s history. As mourners gathered across southern Israel and displaced families sought safety in Gaza, indirect talks between Israel and Hamas resumed in Egypt under a U.S.-backed peace plan aiming to secure a lasting ceasefire and the release of remaining hostages.

Israelis Gather to Remember the Victims

Thousands gathered across southern Israel on Tuesday to mourn victims of the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks, which killed around 1,200 people and left deep scars across the nation. The main memorial, organized by bereaved families, took place near the border communities hit hardest during the assault.

At the site of the Nova music festival in Reim, where nearly 400 people were killed and dozens abducted, attendees held a moment of silence at 6:29 a.m. — the precise time militants stormed the grounds. Photos of victims surrounded the former dance floor as survivors recounted the chaos of that morning.

Israel’s government plans a separate ceremony next week, in line with the Hebrew calendar. The division reflects growing discontent with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of the war and hostage crisis. Many relatives accuse the government of failing to secure a long-term ceasefire that could bring home the remaining captives.

Gaza Endures Another Offensive

In the Gaza Strip, the humanitarian toll remains severe. Israel’s ongoing military operations have devastated urban centers and displaced hundreds of thousands. Gaza’s Health Ministry, which operates under Hamas, reports more than 67,000 Palestinians killed since 2023, roughly half of them women and children. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants, but independent analysts and major rights groups view the figures as the most reliable estimate available.

Entire neighborhoods in northern Gaza have been reduced to rubble as Israeli forces press forward toward Gaza City, sparking another wave of displacement. Many residents, unable to afford the perilous journey south, remain trapped amid shortages of food, medicine, and clean water.

Israel denies accusations of genocide, asserting its operations target Hamas infrastructure and are carried out in self-defense after the October 7 attack.

Egypt Hosts Renewed Indirect Talks

Diplomatic efforts to end the war have resumed in Egypt’s Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh. Israeli and Hamas negotiators are holding indirect discussions mediated by Egyptian and U.S. officials, focusing on implementing the first phase of a U.S.-drafted peace initiative backed by President Donald Trump.

The proposal seeks an immediate ceasefire in exchange for the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas in return for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody. According to Egyptian mediators cited by the Associated Press, both sides have agreed on most of the first-phase terms but continue to debate the timeline and conditions for Hamas’ disarmament — a central Israeli demand.

A senior Hamas official told Al Araby Television that the group would reject any foreign military administration of Gaza, calling the entry of international troops “unacceptable.” Another Hamas representative suggested the group might surrender its weapons to a future Palestinian governing body, though that stance was not included in its formal statement.

Political Divides and Global Reactions

The anniversary has rekindled debate within Israel over Netanyahu’s leadership and the long-term strategy for Gaza. Critics accuse his administration of failing to outline a viable political vision for the post-war period, while supporters argue that continued pressure on Hamas remains necessary to guarantee Israel’s security.

Internationally, leaders across Europe and the United Nations marked the anniversary with solemn statements and renewed calls for peace. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called Oct. 7 “a black day in Jewish history” and expressed shame over a resurgence of antisemitism since the attack. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson described it as “the worst mass murder of Jews since the Holocaust,” while Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni said Israel’s response, though grounded in defense, had caused “too many innocent victims among Gaza’s civilian population.”

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres issued a statement urging the “immediate and unconditional” release of all hostages. He condemned the suffering endured by both sides and urged leaders to “seize the opportunity to end the cycle of trauma and violence.”

Pro-Palestinian Demonstrations Around the World

In Jakarta, more than 1,000 pro-Palestinian demonstrators marched to the U.S. Embassy to protest Israel’s blockade of Gaza and demand the release of activists detained after attempting to breach the blockade by sea. Protesters waved Palestinian flags and chanted “Free, free Palestine” as police deployed in large numbers to maintain order. Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country, has no formal ties with Israel and has consistently voiced support for Palestinian statehood.

In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned planned pro-Palestinian protests on university campuses as “un-British,” warning against rhetoric that could incite antisemitism. His comments followed a deadly attack on a synagogue in Manchester days earlier, which heightened tensions nationwide.

The Path Ahead: Fragile Peace and Lingering Uncertainty

Despite renewed diplomatic momentum, major questions remain unresolved. The future governance of Gaza, the status of disarmament, and Israel’s proposed “security perimeter” inside the enclave all remain points of contention.

The U.S.-led plan envisions an eventual transition toward a unified Palestinian administration, but negotiators have yet to clarify how that would be implemented. Analysts warn that without a clear framework for reconstruction and political reconciliation, the cycle of violence could continue.

As families across Israel and Gaza mourn their losses, the region remains suspended between grief and hope — a fragile balance that hinges on whether this latest round of diplomacy can deliver what two years of war could not: a sustainable peace.

Source: AP  News – Live updates: Israelis and Palestinians mark 2 years of war

The post Israel and Gaza Mark Two Years Since Oct. 7 Attacks Amid Ongoing Peace Efforts appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Published: September 27, 2025, 14:00 EDT

NEW YORK — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a defiant address at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, vowing that Israel “must finish the job” against Hamas in Gaza despite mounting international isolation. His speech, marked by walkouts, protests, and accusations of war crimes, came as global calls intensify for an immediate ceasefire and recognition of Palestinian statehood.

Delegates Walk Out as Netanyahu Speaks

Netanyahu began his remarks to a partially empty UN hall after dozens of diplomats staged a walkout in protest. Seats reserved for major allies, including the United States and the United Kingdom, were occupied only by lower-level envoys, underscoring the diplomatic chill facing Israel. Iran’s delegation left behind images of children it said were killed in Gaza, highlighting the humanitarian toll of the conflict.

The prime minister accused critics of fueling antisemitism, stating: “Antisemitism dies hard. In fact, it doesn’t die at all.” He dismissed recent decisions by several countries to recognize Palestinian statehood, calling them “disgraceful” and claiming such moves would embolden terrorism.

War Framed as Regional Security Struggle

Throughout his address, Netanyahu presented Gaza as part of a broader regional conflict, citing Israeli military operations in Iran, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen. He argued that Israel’s actions were essential to regional stability and peace, describing Hamas as the “final remnants” of a threat that must be eradicated.

Netanyahu also highlighted ongoing negotiations with Syria for security arrangements and praised former U.S. President Donald Trump, calling him a key ally in confronting regional adversaries.

Symbolism and Outreach Beyond the UN

In a bid to amplify his message, Netanyahu used visual props, including a map labeled “THE CURSE,” illustrating Israel’s security challenges. He also wore a pin containing a QR code linking to information about the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, which sparked the current conflict.

His office claimed that Israel broadcast the speech into Gaza using loudspeakers and mobile phone networks. However, journalists inside Gaza reported no evidence of such transmissions.

Palestinians in Wadi Gaza reacted with frustration and fatigue. “Whether he likes it or not, sooner or later, the Palestinian people will gain independence,” said displaced resident Moneir Talib. Another resident, Amjad Abdel Daiym, added: “When he says he wants to eradicate Hamas, I only see that the war is continuing against poor people like us.”

Hamas and Palestinian Leaders Respond

Hamas dismissed Netanyahu’s address as a justification for prolonging the war. In a statement, the group said: “If he were truly concerned about captives, he would have stopped his brutal bombardment and the destruction of Gaza City. Instead, he lies and continues to endanger their lives.”

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, speaking by video to the assembly a day earlier, welcomed recent recognition of Palestinian statehood by countries including France, Canada, and Australia. He urged the international community to do more, saying: “The time has come for the world to do right by the Palestinian people.”

Mounting International Isolation

Israel faces unprecedented diplomatic pressure. Over 150 nations now recognize Palestinian statehood, while the European Union is weighing sanctions. The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu on charges of crimes against humanity, which he rejects. The International Court of Justice is separately considering a case accusing Israel of genocide, which it strongly denies.

The war, triggered by the Hamas attack in 2023 that killed around 1,200 people and saw more than 250 hostages taken, has since killed over 65,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health officials. The United Nations estimates that 90% of Gaza’s population has been displaced, with widespread food shortages.

Protests and Polarization

As Netanyahu spoke, hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside the UN headquarters in New York. “Israel has chosen a war against every conscientious human being in this world,” said Nidaa Lafi of the Palestinian Youth Movement, drawing chants of “shame” from demonstrators.

Supporters, however, praised Netanyahu’s stance. UN Watch, a Geneva-based NGO, described his message as combining “defiance in the face of terror” with “a vision for peace with Arab neighbors, and even with a free Iran one day.”

The U.S. Balancing Act

While Washington remains Israel’s closest ally, cracks are emerging. Trump, set to meet Netanyahu on Monday, signaled limits to U.S. support. He said he would oppose any Israeli move to annex the occupied West Bank, despite calls from within Netanyahu’s government to do so.

Meanwhile, Israel has approved new settlement projects in the West Bank, a move critics argue undermines the possibility of a two-state solution. Netanyahu, however, rejected such a framework, claiming it would reward Hamas and weaken Israel’s security.

A Battle Framed as Global

Concluding his speech, Netanyahu positioned Israel’s war as part of a global fight against extremism. “You know deep down,” he told fellow leaders, “that Israel is fighting your fight.”

The remarks, delivered amid walkouts, protests, and legal challenges, underscored the isolation Israel now faces even as it presses ahead with its military campaign in Gaza.

Source: AP News – Facing global isolation at UN, a defiant Netanyahu says Israel ‘must finish the job’ against Hamas

The post Israel’s Netanyahu Defends Gaza Offensive at UN Amid Growing Global Pressure appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Published: September-23-2025, 14:00 EDT

France’s Recognition of Palestine Marks a Turning Point

France officially recognized Palestinian statehood during a United Nations meeting on Monday, signaling renewed international pressure for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The announcement, delivered by French President Emmanuel Macron, drew strong applause from world leaders and the Palestinian delegation, underscoring the growing global divide over the path to peace.

The recognition comes as the war in Gaza continues, with little sign of a ceasefire. Despite the symbolic weight of the move, experts caution that it may have limited immediate impact on the ground, where fighting and settlement expansion persist.

Macron Declares French Recognition at the UN

Speaking before the U.N. General Assembly, Macron said France was acting “true to the historic commitment of my country to the Middle East, to peace between the Israelis and the Palestinians.” His declaration that “France recognizes the state of Palestine” was met with a standing ovation by many of the 140 world leaders present.

Palestinian U.N. Ambassador Riyad Mansour and his delegation rose to applaud the decision. Macron’s statement followed similar announcements from Andorra, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and Monaco. A day earlier, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Portugal had also voiced recognition.

Germany, Italy, and Japan participated in the meeting but withheld recognition, highlighting divisions among Western powers on how best to advance peace.

Limited Immediate Impact Amid Ongoing Conflict

While recognition carries political and symbolic weight, it is unlikely to alter realities on the ground in the near term. Israel continues military operations in Gaza and is advancing settlement construction in the occupied West Bank.

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that “statehood for the Palestinians is a right, not a reward,” countering Israeli arguments that recognition amounts to rewarding Hamas for its October 7, 2023 attack, which reignited the conflict two years ago.

Palestinian President Calls for End to Violence

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the meeting by video after the United States revoked his visa. He condemned all violence, including Hamas’s October 7 attack, and called for an end to the cycle of bloodshed.

Abbas announced that the Palestinian Authority had ended payments to families of Palestinians killed or imprisoned by Israel, a longstanding demand from both Israel and Washington. He also extended New Year greetings to Jewish communities worldwide on Rosh Hashanah, emphasizing a message of coexistence.

Despite recognizing Israel and supporting a two-state solution, the Palestinian Authority faces criticism from many Palestinians who view its leadership as corrupt and increasingly authoritarian.

“Growing Global Support for Palestinian StatehoodNearly three-quarters of U.N. member states already recognize Palestine, though many major Western powers had previously withheld recognition, arguing it should only come through direct negotiations with Israel.”

For many Palestinians, the wave of recognitions has sparked cautious optimism. “This is a glimmer of hope for the Palestinian people,” said Fawzi Nour al-Deen, who was among thousands fleeing Gaza City. The long-standing vision of a Palestinian state includes the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem, territories occupied by Israel since the 1967 war.

Israel Rejects International Push

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government remains firmly opposed to Palestinian statehood. Officials argue that recognition rewards Hamas and undermines Israel’s security. Netanyahu has suggested Israel might respond with unilateral actions, including potential annexation of West Bank territory.

U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric dismissed such threats, stating that peace efforts should continue regardless of intimidation. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates, a signatory of the 2020 Abraham Accords with Israel, warned that annexation would be a “red line” for regional stability.

Netanyahu is expected to meet U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House next week to discuss Israel’s response. The Trump administration has also opposed Palestinian recognition, blaming it for disrupting ceasefire negotiations with Hamas.

Regional Diplomacy and Divided Palestinian Politics

France and Saudi Arabia recently advanced a phased plan for a reformed Palestinian Authority to eventually govern both Gaza and the West Bank with international support. The proposal passed overwhelmingly in the General Assembly earlier this month, with 142 nations in favor.

However, Palestinian politics remain deeply divided. Hamas, which won elections in 2006, formally seeks a state covering all of historic Palestine, though at times has indicated conditional openness to a state within the 1967 borders. This ideological split between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority continues to hinder unified governance.

Peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians have been stalled since the early 1990s, collapsing repeatedly due to violence and settlement expansion. Analysts argue that without progress toward a two-state solution, the region faces stark choices: continued occupation, or a binational state that could threaten Israel’s Jewish majority.

Conclusion

France’s recognition of Palestinian statehood at the U.N. has injected new momentum into long-stalled peace efforts, even as conflict continues to escalate in Gaza. While symbolic, the move highlights growing international frustration with the lack of progress and raises pressure on Israel and its allies to reconsider their positions.

For Palestinians, recognition offers a renewed sense of hope, though the realities of occupation, political division, and ongoing war mean statehood remains far from realization. The international community, meanwhile, faces the challenge of turning diplomatic statements into concrete steps toward lasting peace.

Source: AP News – France recognizes Palestinian statehood at UN meeting to revive peace efforts

The post France Formally Recognizes Palestinian Statehood at UN, Sparking Global Debate appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Early Tuesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out a precise airstrike targeting key Hamas operatives inside Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip. Among those killed was Hassan Eslaiah, a Palestinian photojournalist whom Israel accuses of operating as a member of Hamas’s Khan Younis Brigade under the cover of journalism.

Hamas Command Center Hidden Inside Hospital

The IDF described the hospital compound as a command center used by Hamas terrorists to plan and launch attacks against Israeli forces and civilians. This strike was part of a broader campaign targeting Hamas leadership embedded within civilian infrastructure.

Nasser Hospital has been at the center of previous strikes. In March, the IDF targeted the same facility and killed senior Hamas official Ismail Barhoum, who was involved in managing Hamas’s finances and succeeded the group’s de facto Gaza prime minister, Issam Da’alis, also killed in that strike.

The IDF condemned Hamas for cynically using civilian sites like hospitals as shields for their terror activities, putting innocent lives at risk.

Hassan Eslaiah’s Controversial Role

Hassan Eslaiah’s death has drawn significant attention. Though widely known as a freelance photojournalist with his work circulated globally, Israeli authorities say Eslaiah was more than a journalist — labeling him a Hamas operative. Videos and photos posted by Eslaiah during the October 7, 2023, Hamas invasion of Israel showed him accompanying armed militants as they stormed Kibbutz Nir Oz, where many civilians, including children, were killed or kidnapped.

In November 2023, major news agencies including the Associated Press and CNN cut ties with Eslaiah following concerns raised by watchdog groups about his connections to Hamas. His photographs from that day were removed from official feeds.

The Israeli military has frequently accused Hamas of exploiting journalists as cover for terror operations, embedding operatives within hospitals, schools, and aid organizations.

Civilian Protection and Military Strategy

The IDF emphasized it took “numerous steps” to minimize civilian casualties during the strike, using precision munitions, aerial surveillance, and extensive intelligence. The strike came after a brief pause in military operations designed to facilitate the release of Israeli hostage Staff Sgt. Edan Alexander.

Preparing for a Major Offensive

Israel has been preparing for a large-scale offensive in Gaza, potentially to be launched if no hostage deal with Hamas is reached by the end of U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit on May 16. Terror groups in Gaza currently hold 58 hostages, including many abducted during the October 7 attacks.

The planned operation, called “Gideon’s Chariots,” aims to dismantle Hamas’s control over Gaza, secure humanitarian aid routes, and relocate Palestinian civilians toward the southern part of the Strip.

Key Points to Remember:

• Israel targeted Hamas operatives at Nasser Hospital, killing Hassan Eslaiah, accused of being a Hamas member posing as a journalist.
• The hospital was previously used by senior Hamas officials involved in terror financing and leadership.
• Eslaiah’s role has been questioned by international media agencies following his documented participation in the October 7 Hamas attack.
• The IDF stresses efforts to avoid civilian harm amid ongoing strikes on Hamas infrastructure.
• Israel is readying a major offensive if no hostage deal is reached soon, with plans to reclaim Gaza and weaken Hamas’s grip.

Source: The Times Of Israel – Israeli strike on hospital kills ‘journalist’ who invaded Israel with Hamas on Oct. 7

The post Israel Strikes Hamas Operatives at Gaza Hospital, Killing Journalist Hassan Eslaiah appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

On Tuesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out a precise and impactful airstrike in Khan Younis, located in the southern Gaza Strip, targeting Mohammed Sinwar, the head of Hamas’ military wing.

According to intelligence assessments, Sinwar was believed to be inside an underground facility beneath the European Hospital in Khan Younis when the strike occurred. While the IDF and Israel’s internal security agency, Shin Bet, are still investigating whether Sinwar was killed, Palestinian sources report that six people died in the attack. Several other senior Hamas officials were also present at the site.

Mohammed Sinwar is the brother of Yahya Sinwar, the former Hamas military leader who was killed by the IDF north of Rafah last October in a separate targeted operation.

Continued Pressure on Hamas Leadership

This strike follows a recent IDF operation on Monday targeting senior Hamas operatives at a command and control center located in Nasser Hospital. The military described the site as a key location where Hamas planned and coordinated terrorist attacks against Israeli civilians and soldiers.

Among those reported killed in Monday’s strike was Hassan Eslaiah, a Gazan “journalist” known for filming himself participating in the Hamas invasion of Israel on October 7, which marked the start of a deadly conflict.

Israel’s Determined Response

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met today with wounded reserve soldiers and delivered a resolute message: “In the coming days, we will move in with full force to complete the operation and defeat Hamas.”

Israel’s military campaign continues to focus on dismantling Hamas’ leadership and weakening its operational capabilities amid ongoing tensions and hostilities in the region.

Key Takeaways:

• The IDF targeted Mohammed Sinwar, Hamas military chief, in an underground site strike in Khan Younis.
• Six people were reportedly killed; investigations continue on Sinwar’s status.
• The strike follows another targeting Hamas leadership at Nasser Hospital.
• Among the dead was Hassan Eslaiah, a Gazan figure linked to the October 7 Hamas attack.
• Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed to intensify efforts to defeat Hamas in the coming days.

Source: All Israel News – Israel strikes Hamas underground site in Khan Younis, targeting military head Mohammed Sinwar

The post IDF Targets Hamas Commander in Khan Younis Underground Attack appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.