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BBC HomepageSkip to contentAccessibility HelpYour accountNotificationsHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeMore menuMore menuSearch BBCHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeCBBCCBeebiesFoodClose menuBBC NewsMenuHomeIsrael-Gaza warCost of LivingWar in UkraineClimateUKWorldBusinessPoliticsCultureMoreTechScienceHealthFamily & EducationIn PicturesNewsbeatBBC VerifyDisabilityWorldAfricaAsiaAustraliaEuropeLatin AmericaMiddle EastUS & CanadaJeremy Bowen: Iran’s attack on Israel offers Netanyahu a lifelinePublished10 minutes agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingRelated TopicsIsrael-Gaza warImage source, EPAImage caption, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing challenges on multiple frontsBy Jeremy BowenBBC international editor It wasn’t many days ago that Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was under enormous pressure. After seven aid workers from World Central Kitchen were killed by the Israeli army in Gaza on 1 April, US President Joe Biden seemed finally to lose patience with his troublesome ally. On the same day, Israel attacked the Iranian diplomatic compound in Damascus, killing a senior general, at least six other officers, and violating legal conventions that prohibit attacks on embassies. Israel claimed, unconvincingly, that Iran had forfeited that protection by turning the consular building it destroyed into a military outpost. Iran promised it would retaliate, but previous attacks on senior commanders had generated more words than actions. Outside Iran, the attack on Damascus was overshadowed by the fury caused by the killing of the team from World Central Kitchen, a US-based charity.The White House issued a furious statement from President Biden. He was “outraged and heartbroken”. It was not a standalone incident. Israel was not doing enough to protect aid workers or Palestinian civilians. In an angry call with the prime minister, he demanded major concessions. Gaza should be flooded with humanitarian aid. Israel must open more border crossings, as well as the container port in Ashdod, less than an hour’s drive away from children starving to death in northern Gaza. Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Israel has used US-supplied weapons to devastating and deadly effect in GazaPrime Minister Netanyahu promised that things would change. Despite that, Israel was stalling. As well as feeling the heat from the White House, Mr Netanyahu was also under pressure from the ultranationalist extremists whose backing in Israel’s parliament keeps his coalition in power. Not only are they opposed to flooding Gaza with aid. They believe the war has presented Israel with a priceless opportunity to re-settle Jews in Gaza. Jewish settlements there were evacuated and demolished by Israel in 2005 as part of a unilateral withdrawal from the territory. By the end of last week, the US was increasing the pressure. On Thursday, Samantha Power, the top US humanitarian official, said it was “credible” that famine was already affecting parts of Gaza. It was apparent to Israel’s friends as well as its enemies that its six-month siege of Gaza had created the world’s most urgent food crisis. There was another burst of speculation that the US would put conditions on the use of the weapons it supplies to Israel. On Saturday morning, hours before the Iranian attack on Israel, The New York Times echoed deepening outrage, especially among prominent Democrats in the US Congress. It called for a pause in the supply of weapons to Israel and laid into Benjamin Netanyahu. Under the headline, Military Aid to Israel Cannot Be Unconditional, the paper’s editorial board slammed Mr Netanyahu and the hardliners in his government for breaking “the bond of trust” with America. The US commitment to Israel, and its right to defend itself, did not mean that President Biden “should allow Mr. Netanyahu to keep playing his cynical double games”, it said.Then Iran’s first-ever direct attack on Israel offered the prime minister a lifeline. This video can not be playedTo play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser.Media caption, Watch: Sirens ring through Jerusalem as projectiles shot down from skyIn a remarkable feat of military co-operation, the US and other Western allies helped Israel shoot down more than 300 drones and missiles launched by Iran. No Arab leader has been a sterner critic of Israel’s war in Gaza than King Abdullah of Jordan. But Jordan’s air force joined the operation, downing projectiles heading for Israel. Calls for putting conditions on military aid to Israel were replaced by resounding expressions of solidarity. Prime Minister Netanyahu has been presented with new political opportunities. Gaza is out of the headlines, for a day or two at least. LATEST: Follow Israel-Iran latest news liveEXPLAINED: Why has Iran attacked Israel?CATCH UP: How Iran’s attack on Israel unfoldedBut pressure on the prime minister has changed. It has not gone. Israel’s next moves might redouble it. President Biden has made it very clear what he thinks should happen next. Israel should declare victory in this episode, “take the win”, and not hit back. He declared, again, that America’s support for Israel was “ironclad”.That fitted in to his consistent policy since the Hamas attacks on 7 October. The president and his administration have worked hard to stop a wider, all-out war in the Middle East, even as they funnelled massive supplies of arms to Israel that have been used to devastating and deadly effect in Gaza. Since October Israel has accepted the weapons and the diplomatic support that accompanied them and ignored Joe Biden’s increasingly desperate and angry calls to respect the laws of war and protect civilians. Just a few days after unprecedented military co-operation from its allies against Iran, Israel looks once again to be bent on ignoring not just Joe Biden’s advice not to retaliate, but very similar sentiments from the other countries that helped out on Saturday night. Just like Joe Biden, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in Britain and President Emmanuel Macron in France deployed combat aircraft, both condemned Iran, and both have urged Israel not to hit back. Image source, Israeli government handoutImage caption, Israel’s war cabinet met on Sunday, as seen in this Israeli government handoutThey are coming up against long-held beliefs and instincts in Israel. One is the deep conviction that Israel’s survival depends on responding to attacks with overwhelming force. Another is Benjamin Netanyahu’s view, expressed many times over his years in power, that Iran is Israel’s most dangerous enemy, bent on the destruction of the Jewish state. Many Israelis share that view. Now, after years of enmity since the Islamic Revolution in 1979, Iran has for the first time mounted a direct attack on Israel. A long clandestine war has come out of the shadows. Israel has said the question is not if it will hit back, but when and how. The war cabinet has been debating how to do it without igniting an all-out war. In the end, though, any attack will gamble that Iran does not want all-out war either, and will respond accordingly. That is a dangerous assumption. Both sides have already badly misjudged the other’s intentions. Once again, Benjamin Netanyahu and his government are bent on ignoring the wishes of allies who have gone the extra mile to help Israel against its enemies. His ultranationalist allies are demanding a crushing attack on Iran. One of them said Israel should “go berserk”. At the same time the humanitarian catastrophe continues in Gaza. International attention has swung away from it but will return. Israel’s military is still operating in Gaza and still killing civilians. Deadly violence between Palestinians and Jewish settlers in the West Bank has surged again. Israel’s border war with Hezbollah could escalate fast. Iran has vowed to retaliate more strongly if Israel attacks. The chief of staff of its armed forces, Hossein Baqeri, said the attack on Israel had been “limited” and promised a “far greater” response if Israel retaliated. The Americans have said they will not assist if Israel attacks Iran. But it is hard to believe that Joe Biden’s definition of an “ironclad” commitment to Israel’s security would keep the US on the sidelines if Iran answered an Israeli attack with another of its own. The slide continues towards a wider war in the Middle East and a deeper global crisis. Related TopicsIsrael-Gaza warIsraelIranBenjamin NetanyahuMore on this storyIsrael war cabinet meets to discuss Iran responsePublished11 hours agoBowen: As Israel debates Iran attack response, can US and allies stop slide into all-out war?Published1 day agoWhy has Iran attacked Israel?Published1 day agoBowen: Israel denies famine looms in Gaza, but evidence is overwhelmingPublished4 days agoBowen: Obstacles to peace seem larger than everPublished7 AprilTop StoriesLive. Israel demands sanctions on Iranian missile projectMuslim student loses school prayer ban challengePublished21 minutes agoMPs to vote on smoking ban for those born after 2009Published2 hours agoFeaturesHow the Alec Baldwin fatal film set shooting unfoldedHow is Paris preparing for the Olympics and Paralympics?How to register to vote for the local elections ahead of midnight deadlineWhy has Iran attacked Israel?Meteorite ‘repeatedly transformed’ on space journeyPlaying Coachella after cancer emotional, says DJCouple find medieval relic hidden in toiletWhy has the weather changed again?AttributionWeatherWhat if you don’t get the primary school you want?Elsewhere on the BBCWere three prime ministers brought down by WhatsApp?Helen Lewis investigates how instant messaging can lead to chaos, confusion, and comedyAttributionSoundsWhen the Queen parachuted from a helicopter with James BondHow did the memorable moment from the 2012 London Olympic Games come about?AttributionSoundsThe Austrian house where children were experimented onEvy Mages uncovers the full, disturbing truth of what happened thereAttributionSoundsReady to rock through time with the Doctor and Ruby?A sneak peek of the new series of Doctor Who, starting May 11…AttributioniPlayerMost Read1Muslim student loses school prayer ban challenge2Copenhagen’s historic stock exchange in flames3Stabbed TV presenter ‘feeling much better’4MPs to vote on smoking ban for those born after 20095Couple find medieval relic hidden in bathroom6’Inoperable’ Eva gets spinal surgery after review7Unemployment jumps as UK jobs market stalls8Confronting pro-Kremlin troll on false claims about Sydney mall attack9Sydney church stabbing was a ‘terrorist’ attack, police say10Six things that stand out for me in Liz Truss book

[ad_1] Under the headline, Military Aid to Israel Cannot Be Unconditional, the paper’s editorial board slammed Mr Netanyahu and the hardliners in his government for breaking “the bond of trust”…

BBC HomepageSkip to contentAccessibility HelpYour accountNotificationsHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeMore menuMore menuSearch BBCHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeCBBCCBeebiesFoodClose menuBBC NewsMenuHomeIsrael-Gaza warCost of LivingWar in UkraineClimateUKWorldBusinessPoliticsCultureMoreTechScienceHealthFamily & EducationIn PicturesNewsbeatBBC VerifyDisabilityWorldAfricaAsiaAustraliaEuropeLatin AmericaMiddle EastUS & CanadaSydney mall attack: Confronting pro-Kremlin troll on false claims Jewish student was killerPublished51 minutes agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingRelated TopicsSydney attackImage source, Aussie CossackImage caption, Simeon Boikov, known as Aussie Cossack online, fled to the Russian consulate in Sydney last yearBy Marianna SpringDisinformation and social media correspondent”I never falsely suggested anything,” Simeon Boikov tells me.Under the alter ego “Aussie Cossack”, he posted untrue speculation that a 20-year-old Jewish university student was the attacker who had stabbed and killed five women and one man at a Westfield shopping centre in Sydney.He said on X: “Unconfirmed reports identify the Bondi attacker as Benjamin Cohen. Cohen? Really? And to think so many commentators tried to initially blame Muslims.”The actual attacker, shot dead by police, was later identified as Joel Cauchi, 40. The authorities say his actions were most probably related to his mental health.Within hours of Mr Boikov’s post on X, the false claims he amplified had reached hundreds of thousands of people on X and Telegram, and had even been repeated by a national news outlet.I tracked him down because I want to understand how his posts triggered an online frenzy that reached the mainstream media – with serious consequences for Mr Cohen, who’s described his distress at being accused of an attack he had nothing to do with.Mr Boikov is speaking to me from the Russian consulate in Sydney, to where he fled more than a year ago after a warrant was issued over his arrest for alleged assault. The pro-Kremlin social media personality was granted Russian citizenship by Russian President Vladimir Putin last year – and has requested political asylum in Russia.He wasn’t the first user to mention the name Benjamin Cohen. It appeared to originate on a small account sharing almost exclusively anti-Israel content.This is one of the ways disinformation now spreads.Digital disinformation expert Marc Owen-Jones says: “It’s less obvious and suspicious than if an influential and known partisan account was to initially tweet it.”Then more established accounts can use this ‘seeded’ narrative as if it’s a legitimate vox pop, and claim they are just ‘reporting’ what’s being said online.”There were also other larger accounts suggesting the attack was somehow connected to Israel or Gaza – before Aussie Cossack’s posts on X.But his were the first featuring Mr Cohen’s name to go viral.That’s likely because he had purchased a blue tick, meaning his content was prioritised ahead of other users and appeared higher up on people’s feeds, including users who did not follow him.Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, PM Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns (both centre) were among those laying flowersThe initial post racked up more than 400,000 views, according to X’s own data – before police identified the attacker as Cauchi, not Benjamin Cohen. Aussie Cossack followed up with another post on X with the likeness of a video showing the actual attacker, Cauchi, side by side with a picture of Mr Cohen.On Telegram, he also posted a screengrab of Mr Cohen’s LinkedIn page, revealing where he worked and studied.But speaking to me, Mr Boikov stresses the scepticism in his tweet – he says he was the “first large platform to warn this is unconfirmed”.He suggests he pointed out the unconfirmed nature of the claim to “the hundreds of thousands of people who saw my posts”.However, comments from lots of users online in response to his posts suggest they viewed it the opposite way, and assumed Mr Cohen was the attacker.I challenged Mr Boikov on how his posts had amplified false claims to hundreds of thousands of people, causing serious harm to the student at its centre. This came as families were – and still are – grieving for loved ones killed in the attack.”Sorry, love, you’re doing that right now,” he said. “What you’re doing now is you are talking about the speculation of a false claim, and you’re writing a story about it.”Share in revenueMr Boikov’s is one of hundreds of very active accounts on X with blue ticks now regularly sharing content in this way – whether or not it’s true.Under X’s new guidelines – since Elon Musk bought the social media company – users can receive a “share of the revenue” generated by ads from their posts, if they purchase a blue tick.Aussie Cossack’s posts were picked up and re-circulated by dozens of other accounts, including several with a track record of sharing false claims. Several regularly share content critical of Israel or content relating to the war in Gaza.These false accusations soon bled on to other social media platforms.”Benjamin Cohen” was the search option suggested on several videos of the attack by TikTok when I was looking through content related to the stabbing on Saturday night.Scrolling through these clips, I found the comments were littered with his name before the police had confirmed the real identity of the attacker.”The attacker’s name is Benjamin Cohen IDF Soldier,” one user wrote. Their account had no posts, and no profile picture. I sent a message. No response.”Shame he’s a Jew right? Why don’t the media outlets label him?” another account wrote on a video showing people running through the mall. As soon as I messaged this one asking about its comments, it blocked me.Repeated by news channelIt’s hard to confirm definitively where these accounts are based. They have the hallmarks of inauthentic profiles, without any identifying features and sharing divisive comments repeatedly.X, Telegram and TikTok have not yet replied to the BBC’s requests for comment.Worryingly, the speculation was picked up by Australian media outlet 7News, which named Benjamin Cohen as the “40-year-old lone wolf attacker”. Screengrabs of their report further fuelled the wildfire online.7News later retracted the report and apologised, attributing it to “human error”. But by this point, antisemitic threats were being directed at Benjamin Cohen, who has described the incident as “highly distressing and disappointing to myself and my family”. He has expressed shock not only that he was falsely accused repeatedly on social media, but that even a major news network had identified him.While the social media frenzy was unfolding, his dad Mark Cohen defended his son on X. He called on New South Wales Police to reveal the name of the attacker “before this nonsense claiming it was my son causes more harm”.Image source, XIn parallel, false claims were circulating that the attacker was Muslim. These were shared by prominent journalists and political accounts on X with hundreds of thousands of followers from the UK to the US.British journalist and presenter Julia Hartley-Brewer suggested the stabbings were “another terror attack by another Islamist terrorist”, while TV presenter Rachel Riley said it was part of a “Global Intifada”. They both later retracted their posts.Hartley-Brewer posted that she had been “incorrect” and that the Sydney massacre “was not an Islamist terror attack”, while Riley said she was “sorry” if her message had been “misunderstood”.Dozens of accounts on TikTok also spread false claims that the attacker was Muslim. I messaged several of them – but they haven’t responded.New South Wales Police have suggested the real attacker, Cauchi, deliberately targeted women – who make up five out of six of the victims.Several online forums dedicated to incels – a subculture who define themselves as unable to get a sexual partner, despite desiring one – have praised Cauchi as one of their own for the attack.But so far there’s no concrete evidence of Cauchi being involved directly with these online movements. When asked why Cauchi could have targeted women, his father said that his son had “wanted a girlfriend” and that had had “no social skills and was frustrated out of his brain”.Increasingly, attacks in the real world are being followed by this kind of social media frenzy – where misinformation is hugely amplified.For the families and friends of those who have been killed, and the innocent bystanders falsely accused, this toxic rumour-mill is causing serious harm.Related TopicsIslamophobiaSydney attackRussiaDisinformationAntisemitismSydneyAustraliaTop StoriesIsrael war cabinet meets to discuss Iran responsePublished3 hours agoDozens of jurors ruled out as historic Trump trial beginsPublished3 hours agoTruss endorses Trump to win US presidential racePublished5 hours agoFeaturesThe Papers: ‘Frantic diplomacy’ over Iran and Trump trial beginsSalman Rushdie: Losing an eye upsets me every day’Hero’ who took on killer describes Sydney attackBowen: As Israel debates Iran response, can US and allies stop slide into all-out war?What was in wave of Iranian attacks and how were they thwarted?What you need to vote has changed. VideoWhat you need to vote has changedListen: Is this a turning point for Iran and Israel? AudioListen: Is this a turning point for Iran and Israel?AttributionSoundsCalls for Germany to legalise abortions in first trimesterHow is Paris preparing for the Olympics and Paralympics?Elsewhere on the BBCWere three prime ministers brought down by WhatsApp?Helen Lewis investigates how instant messaging can lead to chaos, confusion, and comedyAttributionSoundsWhen the Queen parachuted from a helicopter with James BondHow did the memorable moment from the 2012 London Olympic Games come about?AttributionSoundsThe Austrian house where children were experimented onEvy Mages uncovers the full, disturbing truth of what happened thereAttributionSoundsReady to rock through time with the Doctor and Ruby?A sneak peek of the new series of Doctor Who, starting May 11…AttributioniPlayerMost Read1Truss endorses Trump to win US presidential race2’Frantic diplomacy’ over Iran and Trump trial begins3Sydney church stabbing declared a ‘terrorist attack’4Dozens of jurors ruled out as historic Trump trial begins5Wrong couple divorced after law firm computer error6Rust film armourer sentenced to 18 months in prison7MPs to vote on smoking ban for Generation Alpha8Prime minister not at Eid party guests boycotted9Israel war cabinet meets to discuss Iran response10Waddingham rejects red carpet ‘show leg’ request

[ad_1] Simeon Boikov sparked a social media frenzy implicating an innocent 20-year-old in the shopping mall attack.

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BBC HomepageSkip to contentAccessibility HelpYour accountNotificationsHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeMore menuMore menuSearch BBCHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeCBBCCBeebiesFoodClose menuBBC NewsMenuHomeIsrael-Gaza warCost of LivingWar in UkraineClimateUKWorldBusinessPoliticsCultureMoreTechScienceHealthFamily & EducationIn PicturesNewsbeatBBC VerifyDisabilityWorldAfricaAsiaAustraliaEuropeLatin AmericaMiddle EastUS & CanadaUS media organisations push Biden and Trump for TV debate pledgePublished45 minutes agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingRelated TopicsUS election 2024Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Donald Trump and Joe Biden last debated each other during the 2020 presidential election.By Vicky WongBBC NewsA dozen US news outlets have called on the presumptive US presidential nominees to commit to taking part in TV debates ahead of November’s election.The statement did not name Joe Biden or Donald Trump, but said it was never too early for candidates to publicly declare they will take part.The letter warned the stakes of this year’s poll were “exceptionally high.”Mr Trump, who skipped all four Republican primary debates, has said he is keen to debate President Biden.The statement – published on Sunday – was signed by the BBC’s US partner, CBS News, as well as ABC, AP CNN, C-SPAN, Fox News, NBCUniversal News Group, NewsNation, NPR, PBS NewsHour, Univision and USA Today.It said that televised debates have “a rich tradition” in US democracy, dating back to 1976, and that tens of millions of people tune in to watch.Where Biden v Trump will be won and lostBiden draws election battle lines in fiery speechIs it time for America’s elder statesmen to retire?”If there is one thing Americans can agree on during this polarized time, it is that the stakes of this election are exceptionally high,” the statement said, adding that there was “simply no substitute for the candidates debating with each other, and before the American people, their visions for the future of our nation.”Mr Biden and Mr Trump have won enough delegates to secure their nominations at party conventions. There were no Democratic debates in this presidential election cycle, while Mr Trump secured his nomination despite skipping all the Republican presidential debates.Mr Trump, 77, has repeatedly claimed Mr Biden, 81, is too old and forgetful to debate him. Mr Biden has made similar allegations about Mr Trump. Last month, Mr Trump said he would take part in a TV forum with the Democratic president “anytime, anywhere, anyplace”.But the White House has expressed reluctance to commit to a contest amid concerns that the Commission on Presidential Debates – which administers the debates – would be unable to guarantee a “fair” bout. According to an Associated Press report last month, when asked by reporters if he would commit to a debate with Mr Trump, Mr Biden said: “It depends on his behaviour.”The televised debates are set to take place in September and October. But in a latter on Thursday, Mr Tump’s campaign called for “much earlier” and “more” presidential debates than initially proposed. “Voting is beginning earlier and earlier, and as we saw in 2020, tens of millions of Americans had already voted by the time of the first debate,” campaign advisers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita said in the letter. In 2020, Mr Biden and Mr Trump took part in two ill-tempered presidential debates. Mr Trump’s repeated interruptions – which at one point prompted Mr Biden to exclaim “will you shut up, man” – saw NPR call the bout “maybe the worst presidential debate in American history”. Related TopicsUS election 2024Donald TrumpUnited StatesJoe BidenMore on this storyIt’s official – Biden and Trump set for rematchPublished13 MarchA simple guide to the US 2024 electionPublished13 MarchHow does US electoral college choose presidents?Published30 JanuaryTop StoriesLive. Israel will ‘exact a price’ for Iran attack when timing right, minister saysAll eyes on Israel’s response to Iranian drone and missile attacksPublished4 hours agoMum killed protecting baby from Sydney knifeman was ‘beautiful person’Published3 hours agoFeaturesBeing blind helps me connect with people, says diplomatThe 276 schoolgirls whose kidnap shocked the world’I felt anger hearing my dad’s experience of racism’First ladies rebel against being in husband’s shadowWhy did all the Little Chefs disappear?Honeytrap mystery is even stranger than we thoughtIsrael says the confrontation is ‘not over yet’ AudioIsrael says the confrontation is ‘not over yet’AttributionSoundsUkraine could face defeat in 2024. Here’s how that might lookDifficult hunt for 12 impartial jurors to sit on historic Trump trialElsewhere on the BBCWhat went disastrously wrong at Pontins?An investigation into the state of three holiday parks before their sudden closure…AttributioniPlayerA life-changing declutter!Stacey Solomon and her crack team help families transform their homesAttributioniPlayerFound on every continent and in every oceanSir David Attenborough reveals how mammals have conquered the EarthAttributioniPlayerFancy a film tonight?There’s something for everyone on BBC iPlayerAttributioniPlayerMost Read1Dad of girl missing since 1981 to hand back medals2Football fans in hospital after A1M minibus crash3Mum killed protecting baby was ‘beautiful person’4Sydney police identify mall attacker who killed six5Why has Iran attacked Israel?6Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway finale pulls in 4m7Hundreds of Manchester bomb survivors to sue MI58Boy, 7, died from Aids after doctor ignored rules9New ‘Gen Z’ Scrabble: ‘It feels a bit like cheating’10RAF jets shot down a number of Iran drones – Sunak

[ad_1] A dozen top US outlets urged candidates to take part in debates, citing “exceptionally high” stakes.

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BBC HomepageSkip to contentAccessibility HelpYour accountNotificationsHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeMore menuMore menuSearch BBCHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeCBBCCBeebiesFoodClose menuBBC NewsMenuHomeIsrael-Gaza warCost of LivingWar in UkraineClimateUKWorldBusinessPoliticsCultureMoreTechScienceHealthFamily & EducationIn PicturesNewsbeatBBC VerifyDisabilityWorldAfricaAsiaAustraliaEuropeLatin AmericaMiddle EastUS & CanadaIran warns Israel against ‘reckless’ retaliationPublished10 minutes agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingRelated TopicsIsrael-Gaza warThis video can not be playedTo play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser.Media caption, Watch: Sirens ring through Jerusalem as objects shot down from skyBy Doug FaulknerBBC NewsIran has warned Israel that any “reckless” retaliation to its unprecedented aerial attack would receive a “much stronger response”.More than 300 drones and missiles were launched at Israel by Iran overnight, following the 1 April Israeli strike on Iran’s consulate in Syria.Israel said it and allies had intercepted 99% of the weapons.It marked Iran’s first direct attack on Israel, with the two countries having waged a years-long shadow war.World leaders have urged restraint amid concerns about a major escalation in tensions in the Middle East.Following the attack, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed “together we will win”, but it is unclear how his country plans to respond.Last week, Israel’s defence and foreign ministers warned that if Iran attacked Israel, Israel would strike back inside Iran.LIVE UPDATES: Follow the latest on the Iran-Israel attackEXPLAINED: Everything we know so far about wave of Iranian attacksLEARN: What is Israel’s Iron Dome missile system?UPDATE ME: Israel on high alert after unprecedented Iranian attackWATCH: Explosions in sky over JerusalemWATCH: Iran drone attack ‘major escalation’ – Israeli militaryAn attack had been anticipated after the strike on the Damascus consulate killed seven Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) officers.In a statement reported by AFP, Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi said “if the Zionist regime [Israel] or its supporters demonstrate reckless behaviour, they will receive a decisive and much stronger response”.Iran’s IRGC – the most powerful branch of its armed forces – said it had launched the attack “in retaliation against the Zionist regime’s [Israel] repeated crimes, including the attack on the Iranian embassy’s consulate in Damascus”.Following the strikes the Iranian mission to the UN said “the matter can be deemed concluded”.Iranian armed forces chief of staff Maj Gen Mohammad Bagheri told state TV the US had been warned – via Switzerland – that American backing of an Israeli retaliation would result in US regional bases being targeted.Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said he had told the US attacks against Israel will be “limited” and for self-defence, Reuters news agency reported.US President Joe Biden spoke to Mr Netanyahu following the launch of the Iranian attack and reaffirmed “America’s ironclad commitment to the security of Israel”. He condemned the “unprecedented” attack on Israel and said the US had helped Israel and other allies to “take down nearly all” of the missiles and drones.This video can not be playedTo play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser.Media caption, Watch: Iran drone attack ‘major escalation’ – Israeli military spokesmanSirens sounded across Israel and loud explosions were heard over Jerusalem, with air defence systems shooting down objects over the city.The New York Times, citing Israeli intelligence sources, reported that the main targets appeared to be military instillations in the occupied Golan Heights. An Israeli military spokesman said around 360 munitions had been fired – including 170 explosive drones, 30 cruise missiles and 120 ballistic missiles – but Israel has said very little damage had been done.Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman Rear Adm Daniel Hagari said some Iranian missiles had hit inside Israel, causing minor damage to a military base but no casualties.Israel’s ambulance service said a seven-year-old Bedouin girl had been injured by shrapnel from falling debris in the southern Arad region and it has been reported she has undergone surgery.World leaders will be considering their response to the major escalation in tensions between Israel and Iran, with many condemning the attack or warning of the dangers of escalation.Mr Biden said he would convene “my fellow G7 leaders to co-ordinate a united diplomatic response to Iran’s brazen attack”.The UN Security Council will also hold an emergency meeting later, its president Vanessa Frazier said.UN Secretary General António Guterres issued a statement saying he “strongly condemn[ed] the serious escalation represented by the large-scale attack launched on Israel” by Iran.He called for “an immediate cessation of these hostilities” and for all sides to exercise maximum restraint.UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called the strikes “reckless”, while the European Union’s foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell said it was a “grave threat to regional security”.China’s foreign ministry urged restraint, characterising it as “the latest spill over of the Gaza conflict”, while Russia’s foreign ministry expressed “extreme concern over another dangerous escalation”.On Sunday, France recommended its citizens in Iran should temporarily leave the country due to the risk of military escalation. Speaking to crowds at the Vatican on Sunday, Pope Francis made a “heartfelt appeal for a halt to any action that could fuel a spiral of violence with the risk of dragging the Middle East into an even greater conflict”.There have been increased tensions in the Middle East since the 7 October Hamas attacks on Israel, in which 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 others were taken hostage, and the subsequent Israeli military operation in Gaza.The Hamas-run health ministry says at least 33,729 people have been killed in Gaza since the war began.Related TopicsIsrael-Gaza warIsraelIranMore on this storyIsrael on high alert after unprecedented Iranian attackPublished5 hours agoRAF jets shot down a number of Iran drones – SunakPublished40 minutes agoBiden blasts ‘brazen attack’ and backs Israel’s securityPublished8 hours agoIsrael says Iran confrontation ‘not over yet’ after shooting down drones from TehranPublished15 hours agoWhat is Israel’s Iron Dome missile system?Published6 November 2023Iran vows to avenge Syria strike blamed on IsraelPublished2 AprilTop StoriesLive. Israel says Iran confrontation ‘not over yet’ after shooting down drones from TehranAll eyes on Israel’s response to Iranian drone and missile attacksPublished1 hour agoMum killed protecting baby from Sydney knifeman was ‘beautiful person’Published44 minutes agoFeaturesBeing blind helps me connect with people, says diplomatThe Papers: Iran’s drone ‘swarm’ and Sydney knife ‘rampage’The 276 schoolgirls whose kidnap shocked the world’I felt anger hearing my dad’s experience of racism’First ladies rebel against being in husband’s shadowWhy did all the Little Chefs disappear?Honeytrap mystery is even stranger than we thoughtIsrael says the confrontation is ‘not over yet’ AudioIsrael says the confrontation is ‘not over yet’AttributionSoundsUkraine could face defeat in 2024. Here’s how that might lookElsewhere on the BBCWhat went disastrously wrong at Pontins?An investigation into the state of three holiday parks before their sudden closure…AttributioniPlayerA life-changing declutter!Stacey Solomon and her crack team help families transform their homesAttributioniPlayerFound on every continent and in every oceanSir David Attenborough reveals how mammals have conquered the EarthAttributioniPlayerFancy a film tonight?There’s something for everyone on BBC iPlayerAttributioniPlayerMost Read1Sydney police identify mall attacker who killed six2Mum killed protecting baby was ‘beautiful person’3RAF jets shot down a number of Iran drones – Sunak4Duke of Kent to step down as Colonel of Scots Guards5Boy, 7, died from Aids after doctor ignored rules6Hundreds of Manchester bomb survivors to sue MI57All eyes on Israel’s response to Iran8New ‘Gen Z’ Scrabble: ‘It feels a bit like cheating’9What was in wave of Iranian attacks and how were they thwarted?10Iran warns Israel against ‘reckless’ retaliation

[ad_1] Tehran says such a move would receive a “decisive and much stronger response”.

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BBC HomepageSkip to contentAccessibility HelpYour accountNotificationsHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeMore menuMore menuSearch BBCHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeCBBCCBeebiesFoodClose menuBBC NewsMenuHomeIsrael-Gaza warCost of LivingWar in UkraineClimateUKWorldBusinessPoliticsCultureMoreTechScienceHealthFamily & EducationIn PicturesNewsbeatBBC VerifyDisabilityWorldAfricaAsiaAustraliaEuropeLatin AmericaMiddle EastUS & CanadaSydney stabbings: Mum who died protecting baby was ‘beautiful person’Published21 minutes agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingImage source, Family handoutImage caption, Ashlee Good, 38, who was killed in the stabbings at a Sydney shopping centre, has been described as a “beautiful person”By Doug FaulknerBBC NewsA mother who died protecting her baby from a knifeman at a Sydney mall on Saturday was an “outstanding human”, her family has said.Ashlee Good, 38, passed her injured baby girl to bystanders soon after being wounded, eyewitnesses said.”The mum got stabbed and… came over with the baby and threw it at me and [I] was holding the baby,” one man told Nine News. The nine-month old had surgery and is doing well, the family said. Just after 15:00 local time on Saturday, Joel Cauchi, 40, caused panic as he attacked shoppers with a large knife, sending crowds running for the exits.He killed five women and a man in the attack, and injured several others. He was shot dead by a lone police officer who has been hailed as a “hero”.Police said the attack was most likely “related to the mental health” of Mr Cauchi, who had a history of mental health issues. Sydney police identify knife attacker who killed six’She is a hero’: Australia PM hails cop who shot attackerMs Good’s family said they were “reeling from the terrible loss of Ashlee, a beautiful mother, daughter, sister, partner, friend, all-round outstanding human and so much more”.They added their gratitude to the medical team at Sydney’s Children’s Hospital, the police and the two men who “cared for our baby when Ashlee could not”.”We appreciate the well-wishes and thoughts of members of the Australian public who have expressed an outpouring of love for Ashlee and our baby girl,” the family said in a statement on Sunday.Her former employers said they were “deeply saddened by the horrific news” of the stabbings.Danni and Coby du Preez, of massage therapy business Muscle Medicine, said: “Ash was a beautiful person, who worked with us for a short period of time. We send our love and thoughts to her family and best wishes for [her baby’s] recovery.”Image source, ReutersImage caption, Crowds gather to pay tribute to the victims on SundayThe man who took the baby from Ms Good told Nine News that the child looked “pretty bad” at the time. “There was a lot of blood on the floor. I hope the baby is all right.”The man’s brother said: “He helped with holding the baby and trying to compress the baby and same with the mother.”We just kept yelling out to get some clothes, get some shirts and just help us to compress and stop the baby from bleeding.”With my brother holding the baby so well and really compressing, I think the baby’s fine.”The man added: “We were just shopping and saw the man run up to the woman with the baby and then we were both ready to go and help out.”But I just said to my brother, ‘we’ve got to run in’, ran in, told the guys to lock up the doors and then the mother came with the baby bleeding… We got them into the store and just got them safe and then rang for help.”Ms Good was the daughter of former Australian Football League player Kerry Good, who played for North Melbourne. The club wore black armband’s in her memory during a match on Sunday, and the club’s coach, Alastair Clarkson, fought back tears as he spoke before the match. “It’s shocking for our club and in particular the Good family,” he told Fox Sports. “It’s just so sad. Ash and her beautiful little girl… She’s not going to have a mum – it breaks our hearts.”Another victim of the attack has been named as security guard Faraz Tahir, who died “trying to protect the community”.Image source, HandoutImage caption, Security guard Faraz Tahir, 30, had come to Australia about a year before the stabbings his community saidThe 30-year-old man had sought refuge in Australia from Pakistan only a year ago according to members of his local community.In a statement the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of Australia expressed “profound sadness” over the attack.Mr Tahir was “a cherished member of our community and a dedicated security guard who tragically lost his life while serving the public during this attack”, it said.”Our thoughts and prayers are with Faraz’s family and loved ones during this difficult time, as well as with all the other victims and their families affected by this senseless act of violence,” it said.Scentre Group, which runs Westfield shopping centres in Australia, said Mr Tahir had suffered fatal injuries while trying to protect the community during the tragedy.”We are devastated by Faraz’s passing and recognise our team member’s bravery and role as a first responder,” it said in a statement.”Our deepest and heartfelt condolences go out to his family and all who are mourning the loss of loved ones.”Our thoughts and concerns are also with the families and carers of those injured in the attack and the everyday heroes whose actions prevented further loss of life.”Another member of security staff was injured and remains in hospital, it said.Dawn Singleton, 25, has also been named locally as a victim of the stabbings.She worked at clothes retailer White Fox Boutique which paid tribute to her on Instagram.”We are all truly devastated by this loss,” it said. “Dawn was a sweet, kind hearted person who had her whole life ahead of her. She was really amazing.”We send our love and deepest condolences to her partner, the Singleton family and her friends.”New South Wales Police have also confirmed that 55-year-old Pikria Darchia was another victim of the attack. Related TopicsSydneyMore on this storySydney police identify knife attacker who killed sixPublished2 hours ago’She is a hero’: Australia PM hails cop who shot attackerPublished3 hours agoTop StoriesLive. 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[ad_1] Ashlee Good was killed and her nine-month-old baby injured during Joel Cauchi’s rampage at a Sydney mall.

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BBC HomepageSkip to contentAccessibility HelpYour accountNotificationsHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeMore menuMore menuSearch BBCHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeCBBCCBeebiesFoodClose menuBBC NewsMenuHomeIsrael-Gaza warCost of LivingWar in UkraineClimateUKWorldBusinessPoliticsCultureMoreTechScienceHealthFamily & EducationIn PicturesNewsbeatBBC VerifyDisabilityWorldAfricaAsiaAustraliaEuropeLatin AmericaMiddle EastUS & CanadaRussian troops arrive in Niger as military agreement beginsPublished2 hours agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingRelated TopicsSahel Islamist insurgencyImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Niger is among the countries in the Sahel region to have strengthened military ties with RussiaBy Chris Ewokor in Abuja & Kathryn Armstrong in LondonBBC NewsDozens of Russian military instructors have arrived in Niger as part of a new agreement with the country’s junta, which has cut links with the West. State media reported that they arrived along with a state-of-the-art air defence system.They are expected to install the system and teach Niger’s army how to use it. The West African country is one several in the Sahel region ruled by military authorities to have recently strengthened ties with Russia.A spokesperson for Niger’s military government on Friday said the Russians were in the country to train soldiers. Africa Live: Updates on this and other storiesHow Russia has rebranded Wagner in Africa ‘France takes us for idiots’ – Inside coup-hit NigerThe Russian Defence Ministry’s paramilitary group Africa Corps, also known as the Russian Expeditionary Corps (REK), wrote on Telegram that this was the first group of servicemen and volunteers to go to Niger.In an attached video, a serviceman of the corps said in French that they were there to “develop military cooperation” between the countries and had brought “various special military equipment” to help with training.Footage of the Russian instructors unloading a cargo plane full of equipment was broadcast on Niger’s state television. Ulf Laessing, a specialist in the Sahel region for the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, which promotes democracy, told the BBC World Service’s Newsday programme that the military supplies appeared to be part of a “regime survival package”. Niger’s democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum was overthrown last year by the junta, which has since cut military and diplomatic ties with France – the former colonial power – and revoked an agreement with the US. The European Union suspended its security cooperation with the country in the wake of the coup. Mr Laessing said the military government was still concerned about some form of physical interference in Niger by the political and economic alliance of West African states, known as Ecowas. He added that this is probably the reason for the supply of a Russian air defence system, rather than to help suppress Islamist fighters. “I don’t have any other explanations because jihadists don’t have planes,” Mr Laessing said. Kabir Adamu, of the intelligence organisation Beacon Security, said Niger was moving closer to countries outside the Western bloc including Russia, China and Iran. He said he feared the alliance with Russia could encourage the junta to further delay a return to civilian rule, as has happened in neighbouring Mali.Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Supporters of Niger’s military leader, Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani, took to the streets of Niamey in September after the coupAbdel-Fatau Musa, Ecowas commissioner for political affairs, peace and security, noted that Niger was following in the footsteps of Mali and Burkina Faso – the three countries have formed a military alliance.Niger had already been suspended from Ecowas – which has been urging the country to return to democratic rule along with Burkina Faso and Mali – but in January, the junta-led countries announced they would quit the bloc.He expressed fears of a long period of conflict in the Sahel region.”Our position is clear. We shall hold the country of origin responsible for any egregious human rights violations. “We urge countries in the region not to facilitate another cycle of proxy wars in Africa,” Mr Musa told the BBC, although he said sovereign states had a right to choose their international partners.Niger has been facing increased violence by the Islamic State group, as well as the continuing threat of Boko Haram militants along its border with Nigeria. Earlier this week, at least six soldiers were killed in a blast in the Tillabery region near the border with Mali. Niger’s defence ministry, which confirmed the attack, said an army patrol vehicle hit a landmine near the south-western village of Tingara earlier this week, killing some of the soldiers. Others were wounded and were taken to hospital. The ministry said it had carried out an air strike to neutralise those responsible for planting the homemade landmine.While the military government cited worsening insecurity in Niger as the reason for the coup, reports indicate that insurgents have continued to carry out attacks in parts of the country – almost on a monthly basis – especially in the Tillabery region.You may also be interested in:Inside Wagner’s African ‘success story’Why young Africans are celebrating military takeoversIs France to blame for coups in West Africa?Related TopicsRussiaSahel Islamist insurgencyNigerAfricaAround the BBCFocus on Africa podcastAfrica Daily podcastTop StoriesAngela Rayner: I will step down if I committed criminal offencePublished20 minutes agoEx-Post Office boss regrets ‘subbies with their hand in the till’ emailPublished4 hours agoScientists discover cause of brightest-ever burst of lightPublished9 hours agoFeaturesSuicide is on the rise for young Americans. 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[ad_1] Kabir Adamu, of the intelligence organisation Beacon Security, said Niger was moving closer to countries outside the Western bloc including Russia, China and Iran. He said he feared the…