Netanyahu alleges only 20 out of 50 Hamas-held hostages are believed to be alive. The Israeli PM aims for a 60-day ceasefire, which could lead to a permanent end to the conflict.
Despite Israel’s delays and reluctance, Hamas said it was committed to the deal. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said the cabinet would meet to give final approval to the accord.
At the start of 2024, Israel was apprehensive and under severe doubts, but by year-end, it seems self-assured and upbeat about handling military challenges in the Middle East.
Hamas said initial release of Israelis would include women, children, elderly, and ill hostages in exchange for release of 700-1000 Palestinian prisoners, according to proposal.
The men, 79-year-old Chaim Peri, 80-year-old Yoram Metzger and 84-year-old Amiram Cooper, were taken hostage with around 240 others by Hamas infiltrators during the 7 October attack.
A day after Israeli forces mistakenly killed three hostages held by Hamas, Netanyahu called the Gaza conflict an existential war that must be fought until victory.
Indians see West Asia as one uninterrupted wash of Islam, but the reality is more complex. For the Druze, support from Israel—where they are a recognised minority—is now critical.
Mini deal will likely see no cut in 10% baseline tariff on Indian exports announced by Trump on 2 April, it is learnt, but additional 26% tariffs are set to be reduced.
India-Russia JV is also racing to deliver 7,000 more AK-203 assault rifles by 15 Aug. These are currently being made with 50% indigenisation and this will surge to 100% by 31 December.
Public, loud, upfront, filled with impropriety and high praise sometimes laced with insults. This is what we call Trumplomacy. But the larger objective is the same: American supremacy.
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