CEASEFIRE
![White House's John Kirby says US would defend Israel in Iranian attack](https://img.etimg.com/thumb/msid-112846458,width-100,height-75,resizemode-4/news/defence/white-houses-kirby-says-us-would-defend-israel-in-iranian-attack.jpg)
White House's John Kirby says US would defend Israel in Iranian attack
The United States remains committed to defending Israel against potential Iranian attacks and is hopeful for a Gaza ceasefire agreement. White House spokesperson John Kirby affirmed that Iran is prepared to launch attacks and emphasized the U.S.’s readiness to defend Israel and its forces in the region. Negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire continue in Doha.
![Israeli airstrikes kill dozens in Gaza ahead of high-level cease-fire talks in Egypt](https://img.etimg.com/thumb/msid-112768414,width-100,height-75,resizemode-4/news/defence/israeli-airstrikes-kill-dozens-in-gaza-ahead-of-high-level-cease-fire-talks-in-egypt.jpg)
Israeli airstrikes kill dozens in Gaza ahead of high-level cease-fire talks in Egypt
Dozens of Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes in southern Gaza, coinciding with cease-fire discussions involving a Hamas delegation and other officials in Egypt. The strikes targeted areas in Khan Younis and Rafah, leading to significant destruction. High-level efforts are ongoing to negotiate a cease-fire and prevent further escalation of hostilities.
![Hamas says it rejects new Israeli conditions in Gaza ceasefire talks](https://img.etimg.com/thumb/msid-112787457,width-100,height-75,resizemode-4/news/defence/hamas-says-it-rejects-new-israeli-conditions-in-gaza-ceasefire-talks.jpg)
Hamas says it rejects new Israeli conditions in Gaza ceasefire talks
Hamas dismissed new Israeli conditions in ongoing Gaza ceasefire negotiations, causing uncertainty in the U.S.-mediated attempt to end the prolonged conflict. Disagreements focused on Israel's presence in the Philadelphi Corridor and the return of displaced Palestinians. Hamas emphasized it would not accept any changes from previous commitments, complicating the peace process.
![What to know about the heavy exchange of fire between Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah](https://img.etimg.com/thumb/msid-112783295,width-100,height-75,resizemode-4/news/defence/what-to-know-about-the-heavy-exchange-of-fire-between-israel-and-lebanons-hezbollah.jpg)
What to know about the heavy exchange of fire between Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah
On Sunday, Israel and Hezbollah engaged in a major exchange of fire, marking the heaviest confrontations in recent months. Israeli airstrikes killed three militants in Lebanon, while Hezbollah launched hundreds of rockets and drones targeting northern Israel. The attacks were linked to the recent killing of a high-ranking Hezbollah commander. Though both sides have pulled back, the risk of a larger conflict continues to loom.
![As Gaza ceasefire talks stretch, death, disease & hunger rage on](https://img.etimg.com/thumb/msid-112769961,width-100,height-75,resizemode-4/news/international/world-news/as-gaza-ceasefire-talks-stretch-death-disease-hunger-rage-on.jpg)
As Gaza ceasefire talks stretch, death, disease & hunger rage on
Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani was expected to attend. Months of on-off talks have so far failed to produce a breakthrough to end Israel's devastating military campaign in Gaza or free the remaining hostages seized by Hamas. The Egyptian sources said the new proposals include compromises on outstanding points such as how to secure key areas and the return of people to north Gaza.
![Israel-Hamas war: Antony Blinken says 'complex issues,' 'hard decisions' remain over cease-fire](https://img.etimg.com/thumb/msid-112648692,width-100,height-75,resizemode-4/news/defence/israel-hamas-war-antony-blinken-says-complex-issues-hard-decisions-remain-over-cease-fire.jpg)
Israel-Hamas war: Antony Blinken says 'complex issues,' 'hard decisions' remain over cease-fire
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that Israel has accepted a proposal to resolve differences hindering a cease-fire and hostage release in Gaza. Blinken, on his ninth mission to the Middle East since the conflict began, urged Hamas to agree to the proposal. Despite progress, complex issues remain, and negotiations will continue in Egypt and Qatar. Meanwhile, the bodies of two hostages, Yagev Buchshtav and Nadav Popplewell, were returned to Israel. Another hostage, Avraham Munder, also died in captivity. Additionally, Israeli airstrikes hit Hezbollah weapons storage in Lebanon, escalating regional tensions.
- Go To Page 1
Why is Israel demanding control over 2 Gaza corridors in the cease-fire talks?
Israel's demands for control over two key corridors in Gaza—the Philadelphi corridor along the Gaza-Egypt border and the Netzarim corridor cutting off northern Gaza—are threatening to derail cease-fire talks aimed at ending the 10-month conflict with Hamas. Israel argues that control of these areas is crucial for preventing Hamas from rearming and maintaining security. However, Hamas and Egypt strongly oppose these demands, viewing them as a continuation of military occupation. Failure to reach an agreement could prolong the war and increase the risk of a wider regional conflict.
Oil prices tick down as hopes of Middle East ceasefire eases supply worries
Oil prices declined with Israel's acceptance of a U.S. proposal to resolve Gaza ceasefire issues, easing supply concerns. Brent crude and U.S. crude both experienced minor declines. Libya’s Sharara oilfield resumed production. U.S. crude stocks dropped, but economic worries in China and U.S. interest rate expectations impacted market sentiment.
Blinken to arrive in Israel as US pushes for Gaza ceasefire
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will arrive in Israel on Sunday to further Washington's efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and end the 10-month-old conflict between Israel and Hamas. This marks Blinken's tenth visit to the region since the war began in October last year.
Antony Blinken to push for Gaza ceasefire; Israel launches fresh strikes
Israeli airstrikes in Gaza on Sunday killed at least 21 people, including six children, according to Palestinian health authorities. The strikes targeted a house in Deir Al-Balah, resulting in significant casualties. The Israeli military claimed the attacks aimed at rocket launchers and Palestinian fighters in Khan Younis. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is visiting the region to advance ceasefire negotiations amidst escalating violence and humanitarian concerns. With intensified diplomatic efforts and fears of regional escalation, the conflict's humanitarian toll continues to rise.
US official says Mideast mediators are preparing for implementation of cease-fire deal in advance
Mediators believe a Gaza cease-fire deal is imminent, with Mideast negotiators working out logistics for the potential release of hostages and distribution of aid as part of an agreement to end the Israel-Hamas war, according to a US official. The official spoke to reporters on Friday on condition of anonymity, in line with White House rules.
Hamas strikes Tel Aviv with 'M90 rockets', city left shaken
Hamas fired two rockets at Tel Aviv on Tuesday, though no casualties were reported in Israel as the rockets missed their targets. In retaliation, Israeli airstrikes killed at least 19 Palestinians in Gaza, including in Deir Al-Balah and Al-Bureij camp. Despite the escalation, ceasefire talks are set to resume later this week, with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken facilitating discussions. Hamas is calling for action on a proposal from May rather than additional negotiations. The conflict, which began on October 7, has resulted in significant casualties and destruction on both sides.
A new round of Gaza cease-fire talks is starting; why is a deal so elusive?
International mediators are aiming to revive cease-fire talks between Israel and Hamas to end the 10-month war and free hostages in Gaza, but progress is slow. Talks resume Thursday with a proposal involving phased releases of hostages and reconstruction efforts. Sticking points include Israel's security demands, Hamas' concerns, and recent killings that have complicated negotiations. The fear of wider regional conflict looms amid the ongoing violence.
Only Gaza ceasefire can delay Iran's Israel response
Iran is holding back from directly retaliating against Israel for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, awaiting the outcome of ceasefire talks in Gaza this week, according to three senior Iranian officials. Haniyeh was killed in Tehran last month, with Iran accusing Israel; although Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement. The U.S. Navy has increased its presence in the Middle East to support Israeli defenses.
Iran rejects Western calls to stand down Israel threat
Iran has dismissed Western calls to refrain from retaliating against Israel after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. The killing, attributed to Israel, has intensified tensions, with Iran vowing revenge. Amid growing concerns, Western diplomats urged Iran to de-escalate as the U.S. increased its military presence in the region. Meanwhile, international efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza continue, with Israel's far-right factions opposing any negotiations. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with pressure mounting for a ceasefire.
Only Gaza ceasefire can delay Iran's Israel response, sources say
Iran has suggested it could refrain from retaliating against Israel for Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh's assassination if ceasefire talks in Gaza succeed this week. Intense discussions have been held with Western nations to prevent escalation. The U.S. has urged allies to help convince Iran to avoid increasing tensions in the Middle East.
US bolsters military presence in West Asia as UK, France, Germany warn Iran against Israel aggression
The United States is enhancing its military presence in West Asia by deploying an additional guided missile submarine, amid rising regional tensions. This move coincides with a joint statement by the UK, France, and Germany on August 12, commending the efforts of Qatar, Egypt, and the US in brokering a ceasefire and securing the release of hostages. The leaders of these nations emphasized the importance of de-escalation and urged Iran and its allies to refrain from actions that could escalate tensions further. The situation remains highly volatile, with continued international calls for stability.
Gaza civil defence says 90 killed in Israeli strike on school
At least 90 people were killed in an Israeli strike on a school housing displaced individuals in Gaza, according to Gaza's civil defense agency. The incident occurred Saturday, when three Israeli rockets targeted the school in Gaza City.
Israel agrees to resume Gaza truce talks next week
Israel's military on Thursday said troops had begun operations in the area of Khan Yunis, the southern Gaza city from which Israeli soldiers had withdrawn in April after months of fierce fighting with Hamas. Israel has vowed to destroy the Palestinian Islamist movement but during 10 months of war across Gaza has found itself returning to some areas to fight the militants again.
Iran may dump revenge attack plan against Israel in exchange for Gaza ceasefire
Amid rising tensions following Hamas' leader's assassination in Tehran, an emergency OIC summit in Jeddah seeks to explore peace options. Iran, vowing revenge against Israel, may consider backing down if Gaza ceasefire talks advance. The U.S. and France are pushing for de-escalation, while fears of regional conflict persist
Israel kills militants in the West Bank as a nervous region watches latest on cease-fire talks
Two Israeli airstrikes in the West Bank killed nine Palestinian militants on Saturday amid rising tensions over the Gaza war and potential regional escalation. The strikes targeted a vehicle near Tulkarem, killing five Hamas militants, and later four other militants who opened fire on Israeli troops. Over 590 Palestinians have died in the West Bank since the Gaza conflict began in October. Meanwhile, cease-fire talks in Cairo continue as regional tensions mount following the killings of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. The U.S. and other nations urge citizens to leave Lebanon, fearing wider conflict.
Airstrike kills 25 in southern Gaza as Israeli assault shuts down medical facilities
Large parts of Gaza City and urban areas around it have been flattened or left a shattered landscape after nine months of fighting. Much of the population fled earlier in the war, but several hundred thousand Palestinians remain in the north. "The fighting has been intense," said Hakeem Abdel-Bar, who fled Gaza City's Tuffah district to the home of relatives in another part of the city.
Israeli military orders the evacuation of Gaza City, an early target of its war with Hamas
The situation in Gaza continues to escalate as Israeli military operations intensify across multiple regions, prompting urgent evacuations and international mediation efforts. Israel has urged Palestinians in Gaza City to move south amid ongoing military actions aimed at pressuring Hamas and securing the release of Israeli hostages. The recent offensive has resulted in numerous casualties, including children and civilians, sparking international concern and calls for a ceasefire. Despite recent progress in negotiations, significant obstacles remain, with both sides asserting critical demands that complicate reaching a lasting agreement amid the humanitarian crisis.
Israeli forces push deeper into Gaza City in pursuit of militants. Thousands flee again
Israeli forces deepen penetration into Gaza City, intensifying battles and mass displacement during the nine-month war. Cease-fire and hostage release talks with Hamas progress. New evacuation orders force residents into tent camps. Civilian casualties rise amid artillery and tank fire. Northern Gaza heavily bombarded; residents live in shells of homes. Mediators strive for cease-fire.
Gaza destruction likely helped push Hamas to soften cease-fire demands, several officials say
Hamas appears to be softening its demands in Gaza cease-fire negotiations following the Israeli offensive. Internal divisions within the group are reported. Talks with US officials are making progress, but a deal is not guaranteed. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues as efforts to end the nine-month war persist.
Israel deepens its operation in Gaza City, as pockets of militancy continue to dog the military
Israeli forces intensified operations in Gaza City, targeting militants and causing thousands to flee amid ongoing conflict. The incursion focused on eastern Gaza, an area previously contested, prompting evacuations as heavy fighting resumed. Reports indicate artillery, tank fire, and airstrikes, with details on casualties yet to be fully disclosed due to restricted access. The escalation comes amidst diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire, hindered by disagreements over terms including Hamas' demand for Israeli prisoner releases. The situation remains volatile, with civilians enduring widespread displacement and infrastructure damage.
Hamas clears the way for a possible cease-fire after dropping key demand, officials say
Hamas tentatively approves US-backed phased cease-fire deal in Gaza, dropping demand for immediate complete end to war. The Potential deal includes six-week cease-fire, hostage releases, withdrawal of Israeli forces, return of displaced people, and negotiation of further phases of agreement. Hamas seeks written guarantees of continuing negotiations for permanent cease-fire; fighting continues as humanitarian crisis deepens.
Hamas official says expects quick Israeli response to ceasefire 'ideas'
Hamas official Osama Hamdan expects an Israeli response to new ideas for ending the nine-month Gaza war and freeing hostages. Mossad's David Barnea is in Doha for talks. Benjamin Netanyahu insists on hostages' freedom. The conflict, sparked by October 7 attacks, left 1,195 dead. Joe Biden discusses a prisoner exchange and US pressure continues.
Israel sends delegation to negotiate hostage release deal with Hamas
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu informed U.S. President Biden about resuming talks with Hamas for a hostage release deal, led by Mossad. Mediated by Egypt and Qatar, the talks stalled but resumed after Hamas showed flexibility. Netanyahu insists on achieving all objectives before a ceasefire. Gaza’s health ministry reported 38,000 deaths. Israeli airstrikes in Khan Younis, Rafah, and Shejaia worsen the humanitarian crisis. Evacuation orders have displaced many Palestinians. Mossad leads the delegation, per Israeli Channel 12.
Load More