Israeli protesters block highways, call for cease-fire to bring back hostages as war marks 9 months
Tel Aviv, Jul 7: Marking nine months since the war in Gaza started, Israeli protesters blocked highways across the country Sunday, calling on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to step down and pushing for a cease-fire to bring back scores of hostages held by Hamas.
The demonstrations come as long-running efforts to broker a truce gained momentum last week when Hamas dropped a key demand for an Israeli commitment to end the war. The Hamas group is still seeking a permanent cease-fire, while Netanyahu has vowed to keep fighting until Hamas is destroyed.
The war was triggered by Hamas' cross-border attack on Oct. 7, in which 1,200 people were killed and 250 others taken hostage. Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed over 38,000 Palestinians, according to the territory's Health Ministry.
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Hassan: Farmer killed in wild elephant attack
Hassan: A 65-year-old farmer was killed in a wild elephant attack in Belur taluk on Sunday morning.
The deceased has been identified as Raj shetty (65), a resident of Kanaguppe village.
According to police, the elephant, which was hiding in nearby bushes, suddenly attacked Raj shetty while he was on his way to work in his garden. The animal reportedly lifted him with its trunk and trampled him to death.
Forest department officials and police come to the spot upon receiving information and launched an operation to drive the elephant away.
The incident occurred within the limits of Arehalli police station.
