GAZA STRIP, Palestinian Territories, Feb 19, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - Deadlyfighting raged on in Gaza Monday after Israel warned that, unless Hamas freesall hostages, it will push on with its offensive during the Muslim holy monthof Ramadan, including in the far-southern Rafah area. They can surrender, release the hostages,and the civilians of Gaza can celebrate the feast of Ramadan." The Palestinian foreign minister Riyad Al-Maliki told the court his peoplewere suffering "colonialism and apartheid" under the Israelis. Western governments have increasingly pushed for unilateral recognition ofa Palestinian state to be part of a wider peace process, something Israel hasrejected. Netanyahu labelled the comments "shameful" and Foreign Minister Israel Katzdeclared the Brazilian president "persona non grata in the state of Israel"unless he apologises.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha February 19, 2024 17:22 UTC