Israel

The killing of Raed Saed is the highest-profile assassination of a senior Hamas figure since the truce.

Murky brown floodwaters have swept away tents and drenched possessions and food since a winter storm swept in.

Five countries have announced they will boycott the 2026 contest after organizers declined to expel Israel: Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Slovenia and Iceland.

“We are open to have a comprehensive approach in order to avoid further escalation,” said Bassem Naim, a member of Hamas’ decision-making political bureau.

Negotiations on the next stages of Trump's plan to end the two-year war in the Palestinian enclave have been continuing.

Analysts warn the second phase of the ceasefire presents complex challenges that could slow or even stall the process.

Austria, the host of next year's contest, supported Israel's continued participation, while Germany had threatened to withdraw if Israel was excluded.

Abu Shabab's death would be a boost to Hamas, which branded him a collaborator and ordered its fighters to kill or capture him.

The Thai Foreign Affairs Ministry said it was notified that remains returned Wednesday were identified as those of Sudthisak Rinthalak, a Thai national and agricultural worker in Israel.

The return of all the hostages taken in the Oct. 7, 2023, attack that started the war is a key element of the first phase of the ceasefire that began in October.