Israeli Government
What is the current status of Israel's military presence in Lebanon following the expiration of the withdrawal deadline?
Israel's army has pulled out of several southern Lebanese villages while strategically maintaining positions in five key locations. This partial withdrawal occurred after the deadline for complete withdrawal expired on Tuesday. The situation appears to be part of a peace deal with Hezbollah, indicating a delicate balancing act in the region where Israel is reducing its footprint while maintaining some strategic presence. This development reflects the ongoing tensions and complex negotiations in the Israel-Lebanon border region.
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WION
00:14 - 00:40
What ultimatum did Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich issue to Hamas regarding Gaza?
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich issued a clear ultimatum to Hamas militants, demanding they surrender their weapons and completely withdraw from Gaza. This represents a hardline stance from a prominent far-right member of the Israeli government. Smotrich's message came with severe consequences for non-compliance. He warned that if Hamas refuses these terms, Israel would respond with overwhelming force, described as opening 'the gates of hell' - specifically threatening a 'total, swift and complete conquest of the Gaza Strip.' The ultimatum reflects Israel's determination to fundamentally alter the security and governance situation in Gaza.
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WION
00:35 - 00:57
What are Israelis protesting for regarding the hostages from the October 7 attack?
Thousands of Israelis in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv are protesting for the release of 73 hostages still held in Gaza, marking 500 days since the October 7, 2023 attack. Demonstrators gathered outside Prime Minister Netanyahu's residence chanting for the hostages' release, while in Tel Aviv, families addressed crowds at what is now known as Hostages Square. There is growing concern that the ceasefire agreement in effect since January 19 could collapse before completing its 42-day first stage. So far, 19 Israeli and 5 Thai hostages have been released, but 73 remain in captivity, with approximately half declared dead in absentia by Israeli authorities.
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02:58 - 03:57