Israeli ground incursion in Gaza

The Israeli war on Gaza continues unabated despite global calls for a ceasefire with pro Palestinian event on the rise in the UK, EU and US with Democrats coming out in support of Palestinians and questioning US military assistance to Tel Aviv.

Our people in the Gaza Strip are facing a war of genocide and massacres committed by the Israeli occupation forces in full view of the entire world.


Mahmoud Abbas, Palestinian Authority President

Throughout the world people are condemning Israel and the inability to stop this war.

I say frankly to the American statesmen, who are now managing the genocide in Palestine.


Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, Iranian Foreign Minister

I am raising alarm about the possibly catastrophic consequences of large scale ground operations in Gaza, and the potential for 1000s more civilians to die.


Volker Turk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

The streets have spoken. Some have asked what good protest will do for Palestinians. For starters, it has changed the mind of many politicians on Israel.

For example in the UK which has held large pro Palestine protests for three consecutive weeks.

A string of resignations have rocked the British opposition Labour Party ever since party leader Keir Starmer said Israel had the right to cut power and water supplies to Palestinians living in Gaza.

And Israel has every right to defend herself.


Sir Keir Starmer, Labor Party, Leader

In the US, pro Palestinian events have been held across the country. Many Democrats have come out in support of Palestinians. over Israel, questioning the US military assistance

Israel has dropped more bombs in the last 10 days than we dropped in a whole year in Afghanistan.


Ilhan Omar, US Member of Congress

One should not forget the Leahy Law, the US human rights law that prohibits the US from providing equipments and training to a foreign entity suspected of committing gross human rights violations.

Even some UN members are changing their tone as evinced

Condemnations of Israel have come from many European officials including officials in Spain, the EU’s Josep Borrell, and, Scotland’s First Minister, Hamza Yusuf, who condemned Israel’s collective punishment.

However, the South African foreign minister’s remarks topped the list.

… countries like South Africa have been consistent in their support for Palestine and have never deviated from the belief President Mandela held that until the people of Palestine are free, South Africa will not be fully free.


Naledi Pandor, South African Foreign Minister

Israel has finally begun ground incursions into the Gaza Strip, where, apparently, it wants to execute block by block urban warfare, intent on destroying Hamas no matter what the human cost may be.

The battle will be an extensive one …, but there will be a price for that, and we will have a price to pay, but we will go on until we complete this operation to the fullest. 


Yoav Gallant, Israeli Minister for Military Affairs

This so called new phase is the second of the three phases that the Israeli Minister of Military Affairs announced a few weeks ago.

The first phase, a military bombing campaign; the second, a ground maneuver; and the third, the creation of a new security regime in the Gaza Strip, relieving Israel from the responsibility of day to day life in the enclave.

This third phase raises a lot of questions as to what Gallant meant by a new security regime and the removal of Israel’s responsibility for day to day life in the Gaza Strip.

On the ground operation, Frank McKenzie, a retired US Marine four star general has said that Hamas fighters will seek to draw Israeli forces into a city street fight.

General McKenzie believes Hamas will use their tunnel network to get in behind the attack or to attack from all sides to make it very difficult for Israel to effectively employ any technological advantage it possesses.

The tunnels are rather extensive, a complex web which is multifunctional in scope and extremely well hidden.

It is feared that Israel, supposedly having one of the most advanced militaries in the world, with a stockpile of American precision guided munitions, will get drawn into an urban war, which it may not be equipped to handle.

Hamas have a much, much stronger hand given that they’ve been building these tunnels over 16 years. They (Hamas) have been ruling Gaza, and it’s a town, they have a town under ground that they are in control of, not the Israeli army.


Nomi Bar-Yaacov, Associate Fellow, Chatham House

Does Israel have a long term strategy?

They don’t have an end game; they don’t have an answer to the crucial question: what will be the day after?


Gideon Levy, Israeli Journalist and Author

The US does actually have an end game in mind, to uproot Palestinians, commit another Nakba and send Palestinians to other countries such as Egypt, or to the Sinai desert.

Maxwell Suffers Concussion After Freak Golf Accident. Out Of England Match

Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has been ruled out of the ODI World Cup 2023 match against England, to be held in Ahmedabad on Monday. Maxwell was on a golf cart, heading back to the team hotel from the clubhouse when the incident took place. Maxwell lost his grip, slipped and fell from the cart. In the process, he ended up injuring his head, suffering a concussion. The all-rounder’s absence could hurt Australia’s semi-final plans, but they do have the likes of Cameron Green and Marcus Stoinis to replace him.

Maxwell is indispensable to Australia’s team, especially since soaring to form by scoring a 40-ball 100 against the Netherlands in New Delhi. Even in the last World Cup match against New Zealand, Maxwell scored a 24-ball 41 as his team strengthened its position in the semi-final race.

“In transporting him back from the clubhouse to the team bus, Glenn Maxwell came off the back of a car and has suffered a small concussion, so he will go into concussion protocols for the next period of time and will unfortunately miss the England game,” Australian coach Andrew McDonald revealed.

“There’ll be no replacement (in the squad) as such, he’ll go into six to eight days concussion protocol. So they said that takes into account the England game, he’ll be unavailable for that game. And then clearly within the squad we’ve got some players who become available Marcus Stoinis, Cameron Green’s there available as well, but we haven’t made that decision as yet.

Further explaining the incident, McDonald said: “The guys were ferried off on carts. Glenn and a few other players jumped on the back of carts and unfortunately he lost his grip on the way back to the team bus and sustained that injury. Over the last couple of days he’s been assessed.

“We feel as though it’ll be a relatively straightforward return to play protocol with where he’s at at the moment.”

Australia have won 4 matches on the bounce, after losing the first 2, and are in a solid position to secure one of the top 4 spots. After the England clash, they are scheduled to take on giant-killers Afghanistan on November 07.

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WHO, Japan strengthen resilience of the Iranian health system

This initiative represents a significant stride in bolstering the diagnostic capacity and resilience of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s health system, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of patient care.

The advanced 1.5 Tesla MRI machines have been strategically placed in key referral hospitals identified by the Iranian Ministry of Health and Medical Education. The recipient hospitals are Kosar Hospital, Semnan; Hajar Hospital, Shahrekord; Pasteur Hospital, Bam; 12 Farvardin Hospital, Kahnooj; Imam Ali Hospital, Andimeshk; and Shohada Hospital, Neyriz. Within the framework of the project for strengthening capacity of health for COVID-19 crisis in the Islamic Republic of Iran, through provision of six MRI machines, more communities across the country now have access to vital medical imaging technology, removing the need for patients to travel long distances for diagnostic services.

To ensure the environmental safety and protection of the hospitals and surrounding areas, an environmental assessment was carried out. Any issues were promptly addressed, guaranteeing that the installation of the MRI machines meets the highest social and environmental standards.

Health professionals in the 6 hospitals have received comprehensive training on how to operate cutting-edge imaging devices. This training empowers medical staff to harness the full potential of the MRI machines, enabling accurate diagnoses and early detection of diseases. This newfound capability will significantly enhance patient outcomes and provide invaluable support to the Iranian health system.

“The Government of Japan’s generous contribution not only strengthens the medical imaging capabilities of the designated hospitals but also benefits the entire country by enhancing access to advanced diagnostic services. This collaborative effort between WHO Iran and the Government of Japan exemplifies the positive impact that international partnerships can have on health infrastructure,” said Dr Syed Jaffar Hussain, WHO Representative and Head of Mission to the Islamic Republic of Iran.
“We are immensely grateful for the Government of Japan’s support in enhancing the resilience of the Iranian health system,” emphasized Dr Hussain. “These MRI machines will significantly improve the Islamic Republic of Iran’s diagnostic capabilities, offering more timely and accurate health services to its people. We believe this joint WHO–Japan project will have a lasting impact on the health and well-being of vulnerable populations in the Islamic Republic of Iran, including refugees from Afghanistan who reside in deprived areas of the country.”

“Japan has supported medical situation in Iran by donating 4.3 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines when Iran was in serious need of them. Provision of medical equipment for hospitals which provide medical services to vulnerable people is another example of our cooperation. I believe that such cooperation enhances health of people of Iran,” H.E. Kazutoshi AIKAWA, Ambassador of Japan to Iran, commented.

This initiative not only represents a milestone in the evolution of the Iranian health system but also serves as a powerful example of how international collaboration can help address pressing health needs. The installation of these MRI machines marks a significant step towards improving health services and early disease detection, ultimately contributing to the regional vision of Health for All by All.

MNA

PM Modi wishes five states on Formation Day


Modi extends his wishes to citizens in a series of posts on the occasion.

Updated On – 01:37 PM, Wed – 1 November 23


PM Modi wishes five states on Formation Day



New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday greeted citizens on the foundation day of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.

In a series of posts, Modi wishes citizens on the occasion.

“On the momentous occasion of Andhra Pradesh Formation Day, my heartfelt felicitations to the people of this dynamic state. With their exceptional talent, unwavering resolve and steadfast perseverance, the people of AP have etched their mark across diverse domains of excellence. I pray for their continued prosperity and success,” he posted on X wishing people of Andhra Pradesh on its formation day.

“On this Kannada Rajyotsava, we celebrate the spirit of Karnataka – a cradle of ancient innovation and modern enterprise. Its people, a blend of warmth and wisdom, fuel the state’s relentless march towards greatness. May Karnataka continue to thrive, innovate and inspire,” Modi greeted people of Karnataka in another post.

The Prime Minister also greeted people of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Haryana on their formation day on X.

Ambuja Cements Sees Q2 Profit Of Nearly Rs 1,000 Crore

Ambuja Cements Sees Q2 Profit Of Nearly Rs 1,000 Crore

Ambuja Cements’ total expenses were down 8.52 per cent at Rs 6,564.28 crore.

New Delhi:

Ambuja Cements Ltd on Wednesday reported a multifold increase in consolidated net profit at Rs 987.24 crore for the quarter ended on September 30, on reduction in operating cost.

The company, now part of the Adani Group, had clocked a net profit of Rs 51.30 crore in the July-September quarter a year-ago, according to a regulatory filing by Ambuja Cements.

Its consolidated revenue from operations was up 4.10 per cent to Rs 7,423.95 crore during the quarter under review. It was Rs 7,131.39 crore in the corresponding period of the last fiscal year.

“This could be achieved with high focus on cost leadership, business synergies and operational excellence,” said an earning statement from Ambuja Cements.

The consolidated results of Ambuja Cements include the financial performance of its step-down firm ACC Ltd, in which it owns around 51 per cent stake.

Ambuja Cements’ total expenses were down 8.52 per cent at Rs 6,564.28 crore, from Rs 7,175.81 crore a year ago.

Its total consolidated revenue in the September quarter was up 9.1 per cent to Rs 7,900 crore.

On a standalone basis, Ambuja Cements reported a four-fold jump in net profit to Rs 643.84 crore in the July-September quarter, as against Rs 138.91 crore in the year-ago quarter.

Its standalone revenue from operations increased 8 per cent to Rs 3,969.79 crore, as against Rs 3,675.61 crore earlier.

Shares of Ambuja Cements Ltd on Wednesday were trading at Rs 410.55 on BSE, down 3.29 per cent from previous close. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Shakti Hörmann to Set up a Rs 175 Cr Greenfield project

Hyd

Hyderabad: Shakti Hörmann, a Hyderabad-based door manufacturing industry, announced the launch of its latest product line for B2B and B2C sectors including the launch of two new OpenXperience centres in Hyderabad and New Delhi, leveraging a strategic partnership with Hörmann, Germany on Wednesday.

Additionally, the company is establishing the most advanced wooden door manufacturing plant in India, further solidifying its dedication to expanding its national presence and delivering unparalleled products and services to its growing customer base.

“We are establishing a new manufacturing plant in Mahendra World City in Jaipur, with a capacity of 130,000 doors per annum, investing more than Rs 1750 million,” said Shashidar Reddy, Managing Director of Shakti Hörmann.

The Shakti Hörmann plant located in Hyderabad currently can produce over 2,00,000 custom-made doors, door frames, and over 10,000 industrial doors per annum, catering to industrial, commercial, public buildings, institutions, hospitality, hospitals, and airports.

“Given the changing demand and requirements of this market especially the growth of the high-rise apartment complexes, the need of the hour is an OpenXperience center that can offer a first-hand functional experience to consumers of new products and innovations,” he added.

Yemen to rise its attacks on Zionists to stop their crimes

In an interview with Mehr News Agency, Ibrahim al-Dulaimi, the Yemeni ambassador to Iran explained the actions of the Yemeni armed forces on Tuesday in the military response to the crimes of the Zionist regime against the Palestinians, saying, ” The army of the Republic of Yemen and Yemeni nation launched a military response to the crimes and aggressions of the Zionist regime against the Palestinians”.

He added that the aim of this attack, which was launched at the request of the Yemeni nation is to stop the aggression of the Zionist regime against the Palestinians and the residents of Gaza.

The Yemeni ambassador emphasized, “We have several strategies for the liberation of Palestine and stopping the crimes of the Zionist regime.”

Describing Yemen’s message to other Islamic countries, al-Dulaimi clarified ” Our message to Muslim countries is that we all must stand together behind the Palestinian nation and support them.”

Even if Islamic countries cannot enter the military battlefield, they should stop selling oil to the Zionist regime and boycott buying Zionist and American products, he said.

He stressed that as it was announced from the beginning of the aggression of the Zionist regime to Gaza, Yemen keeps supporting the Palestinians, adding that Yemen’s military attacks on the Zionists will increase until the crimes of this barbaric coalition in Gaza stop.

On Tuesday, The Yemeni armed forces confirmed media reports about their attack on positions of the Zionist Israeli regime amid its aggression on the Gaza Strip, vowing to continue their missile and drone attacks.

The Yemeni Armed Forces spokesman clarified that the Yemeni Sana’a government has done three operations in solidarity with and support for the Palestinian people in Gaza so far over the past three weeks, underscoring commitment to the Palestine cause. 

SD/5927121

Iranian fighters bag 3 bronze medals in Asian Boxing C’ships

Ashkan Hashemi (60 kg), Amir-Mohammad Rostampour (63 kg), and Abbas Garshasbi (+80 kg) each won bronze medals in the sporting event.

Other Iranian boxers, Mohammad-Saleh Mesbahi (66 kg) and Abdulrahman Dara (75 kg) defeated their opponents in the semifinals and reached to the final.

Mesbahi and Dara will compete with their rivals from Kazakhstan in the finals.

The new edition of the ASBC Asian Youth & Junior Boxing Championships is underway in Astana, Kazakhstan from October 21 to November 3.

The ASBC Asian Youth & Junior Boxing Championships is one of the greatest ever boxing competitions in the continent with the participation of around 500 boxers from 28 countries and all regions.

AMK/IRIB4037698

First Ambulances Carrying Wounded Palestinians From Gaza Enter Egypt

First Ambulances Carrying Wounded Palestinians From Gaza Enter Egypt

The first ambulances carrying wounded Palestinians from Gaza entered Egypt via the Rafah crossing (File)

Cairo, Egypt:

The first ambulances carrying wounded Palestinians from war-torn Gaza entered Egypt via the Rafah crossing  today, an Egyptian official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Live footage shown on television stations close to Egyptian intelligence had shown the ambulances entering the Egyptian side of the Rafah terminal to bring back what officials said would be around 90 of the most seriously sick and wounded Palestinians for treatment in Egyptian hospitals.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)