Israel Today: Ongoing War Report

HEADLINESWest Bank clash Israeli unit kills attackerHouse deadlocks on Iran war powersIsrael-Lebanon peace talks productive at State DepartmentThe time is now 8:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, troops from the 636th Combat Intelligence Collection Unit engaged three terrorists hurling rocks toward Israeli vehicles during a counterterrorism operation near the West Bank village of Al-Lubban ash-Sharqiya. The soldiers fired on the attackers on Route 60, killing one masked suspect and wounding another, with a search under way for the two remaining assailants in the Madama area where the incident occurred. The military noted that last month a 5-year-old child was wounded by glass shards after a rock-throwing attack on Highway 60 shattered the windshield of a car, and said it has begun a search of Madama to locate the responsible terrorist.In US Policy Concerning Israel, the House of Representatives narrowly defeated a Democratic-led bid to stop President Trump’s Iran war powers until hostilities are authorized by Congress, voting 212-212, meaning the measure failed for lacking a majority. Three Republicans—Tom Barrett of Michigan, Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, and Thomas Massie of Kentucky—backed the resolution, while one Democrat, Jared Golden of Maine, opposed it. It was the third House vote this year on an Iran war powers measure and the first since a 60-day deadline for Trump to come to Congress about the war. Trump has said a ceasefire had “terminated” hostilities with Iran, and seven similar votes have failed in the Senate. In a separate note, officials described the first day of the third round of Israel-Lebanon peace talks at the US State Department as productive and positive, with delegations from both countries set to meet again on Friday to continue discussion aimed at mapping a framework for a deeper agreement. The talks, led by US mediators including the US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee and Michael Needham, an adviser to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, along with the US Ambassador to Lebanon Michael Issa, were the first attended by military representatives, and came as a three-week ceasefire extension discussed by the parties neared its end. Israel’s delegation was led by the Israeli ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter, accompanied by Brigadier-General Amichai Levin, the IDF Head of Strategy.In Israeli Domestic Politics, ultra-Orthodox protesters gathered outside the Ashkelon home of Brigadier-General Yuval Yamin, the head of the military police, in a demonstration against arrests of haredi draft dodgers by the military police. Police arrived to disperse the group as tensions rise over a haredi draft bill in the Knesset. The IDF condemned the protests, saying it would not tolerate threats to security forces or their families. Earlier in the week, protesters blocked areas in Jerusalem and, last week, broke into Yamin’s yard while his family was at home. IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant-General Eyal Zamir has urged larger numbers of haredim to be drafted, stressing that the army must grow quickly to address manpower shortages.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896292https://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-896293https://www.jpost.com/international/article-896291https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896286

HEADLINES- Congress Rejects War Powers Act Over Iran- Ultra-Orthodox Protesters Target Military Police Chief Home- Muslim Group Joins Fifth Avenue Israel ParadeThe time is now 7:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In The US House of Representatives rejected the War Powers Act proposal intended to prevent President Trump from continuing the war in Iran without Congress's approval. Last night, the bill was also rejected in the Senate.In Ultra-Orthodox protesters attempt to invade military police chief's home, Dozens of haredi protesters arrived Thursday night at the Ashkelon home of Brigadier-General Yuval Yamin, the head of the military police, in a demonstration against the arrests of haredi draft dodgers by the military police. Police arrived at the scene in an attempt to disperse them. The IDF denounced the protests, saying, "We strongly condemn any attempt to harm security forces personnel and their families," according to a report from N12 News. Groups of ultra-Orthodox men have repeatedly conducted protests amid increasing tensions regarding a haredi draft bill in the Knesset. Last week, haredi protesters broke into Yamin's yard at a time when his family was home. Protestors also blocked the Bar-Ilan street area of Jerusalem on Sunday, disrupting public order and movement in the area, according to police statements. The police said that, while freedom of expression and lawful protests are allowed, it would not permit a "blatant violation of public order." Earlier this week, IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant-General Eyal Zamir pushed for large numbers of haredim to be drafted into the military, citing manpower shortages. The IDF "must grow, and quickly," he said.In The Israel parade on Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue this year is slated to have a Muslim group marching alongside Jewish organizations in what is believed to be a first time in the parade’s 61-year history. Anila Ali, board chair and president of the nonprofit American Muslim & Multifaith Women’s Empowerment Council, intends to lead group that she expects will include about 30 people in the annual event, which takes place on New York’s iconic Fifth Avenue, alongside Central Park.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76316https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896286https://t.me/JewishNews24/54392

HEADLINESUS Unveils $1.8B Israel Aid via UNHaredi Draft Protests Surge as Laws AccelerateSpain PM Defends Lamine Yamal GestureThe time is now 6:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In US Policy Concerning Israel, the United States announced $1.8 billion in new humanitarian aid to be provided through the United Nations, with the funding to be used in line with the Trump administration's foreign policy interests. The pledge sits on top of $2 billion in funding the United States announced in December under a new mechanism designed to make aid funding and delivery more efficient and increase accountability. Jeremy Lewin, serving as the undersecretary for foreign assistance, humanitarian affairs, and religious freedom, said that 92% of the aid provided through the mechanism has been hyper-prioritized on life-saving assistance, and that approach would continue, focusing on places where US policy interests align with the president's. The funding reinforces Washington’s role as the largest single donor to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.In Israeli Domestic Politics, ultra-Orthodox protesters arrived Thursday night at the Ashkelon home of Brigadier-General Yuval Yamin, head of the military police, in a demonstration against the arrests of haredi draft dodgers by military police; police moved to disperse the crowd and the IDF denounced the protests, warning against harm to security forces and their families. The demonstrations have intensified amid growing tensions over a haredi draft bill in the Knesset. Last week protesters breached Yamin's yard while his family was home, and this week blocked Bar-Ilan Street in Jerusalem, prompting police statements about maintaining public order. IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant-General Eyal Zamir urged drafting large numbers of haredim, saying the army must grow quickly. Separately, Netanyahu’s coalition moved to fast-track controversial laws ahead of a possible Knesset dissolution, a step that could bring the election date forward from October 27. The plan includes a five-year agenda for the haredi community that would transfer billions of shekels to the sector and entrench policy for years, including allocating 25% of the Education Ministry’s construction budget to haredi educational institutions and transferring NIS 44 million annually to a dropout-prevention program aimed at preventing enlistment. The move was framed as requiring government approval before a dissolution vote, after which approval could be more limited.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Spain’s prime minister Pedro Sánchez defended Lamine Yamal after backlash to his Palestine flag display during Barcelona’s title celebrations, saying anyone who views it as incitement to hatred has “lost their minds,” and that Yamal’s gesture reflected solidarity with Palestine shared by millions of Spaniards.In Uplifting News, Beitar Jerusalem remain in the title race after a 1-1 draw with Hapoel Beersheba at Teddy Stadium, with Yarden Shua giving Beersheba a 78th-minute lead that Kings Kangwa canceled out with an 81st-minute equalizer; the result leaves Beitar within three points of the leader with three games left. Earlier, Hapoel Tel Aviv defeated Hapoel Petah Tikva 1-0 thanks to Mor Buskila’s 74th-minute winner, securing European qualification for next season. In Eurovision 2026 coverage, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Norway, Australia, Romania, Malta, Cyprus, Albania, Denmark, and Czechia advanced to the final from the semifinals, with the final scheduled for Saturday night.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/international/article-896287https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896286https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896280https://www.ynetnews.com/article/by9sohqkmehttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/sports/article-896288https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1321623

HEADLINESGulf States Fortify Defenses as Iran ThreatensNetanyahu Pushes Five-Year Haredi Plan Before DissolutionLondon Deploys 4,000 Officers for Nakba DayThe time is now 5:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Role of Gulf states in Iran conflict said to change over one week - analysis, analysts say Iran’s narrative framed Gulf states as hosts for US forces or as signatories of the Abraham Accords, allowing Tehran to threaten them more openly. The conflict that began with US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran on February 28 saw Iran launch attacks at a dozen regional targets, with the United Arab Emirates identified as a major target, alongside Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Israel, Oman, Qatar, the autonomous Kurdistan Region of Iraq, Kuwait, Jordan, and other countries. Iran also targeted US bases and signaled it could strike anywhere. The Gulf states, hit by the strikes, were initially seen absorbing blows with limited retaliation and strengthening their air-defense capabilities. In recent days, perceptions of their role have shifted, with some Gulf states taking a more proactive stance to defend themselves and build up their deterrence, according to media reports this week.In Netanyahu's coalition moves to fast-track controversial laws ahead of upcoming Knesset dissolution, the government is pressing ahead with measures that could accelerate passage of contentious bills before a potential dissolution date. The push comes amid a crisis in the coalition with ultra-Orthodox parties over the conscription law. The coalition is backing a five-year plan for the haredi sector that would channel billions of shekels to that community and entrench policy for years, including a 25% slice of the Education Ministry’s construction budget for haredi institutions and an annual NIS 44 million to a dropout-prevention program intended to deter enlistment in the IDF. The plan is being advanced in the lead-up to the vote on dissolving the Knesset, when government approval would be easier to secure.In Diaspora Jews aren't ‘traitors’ for not making aliyah, Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli says, the attack on diaspora Jewry does not serve us and he would not use the language of threats. Speaking at the Tel Aviv Conference on Israel’s Future, Chikli defended the government’s record on the haredi draft law, the war, diaspora Jewry, and political polarization, while audience members interrupted repeatedly.In Herzog scraps NYC visit as pro-Palestinian protests erupt over planned speech, President Isaac Herzog canceled his trip to New York, opting to speak virtually amid criticism from pro-Palestinian students.In London, cities worldwide brace themselves for Nakba day protests, deputy assistant commissioner James Harman said Saturday may be one of the busiest days for policing in recent years. London’s Metropolitan Police plan to deploy about 4,000 officers to maintain order during Nakba Day protests, with a zero-tolerance approach, supported by live facial recognition, helicopters, drones, dog units, police horses, armored vehicles, and dedicated investigative teams. The UK terrorism threat level has been raised to severe, and authorities note a backdrop of rising antisemitism and hate crimes targeting Jewish Londoners.In Haifa Port opens new cruise terminal as Israel’s tourism sector eyes recovery, the new terminal, built at an investment of more than NIS 16 million, is due to begin operating with the opening of the cruise season on May 14. It is designed to handle two large cruise ships at the same time and to serve outbound and inbound tourism, with capacity for up to one million passengers a year, double the previous peak. The project expands central passenger areas, including a 600-square-meter duty-free shop, a 1,300-square-meter security screening area, a 1,000-square-meter check-in area, and a 1,200-square-meter border control area with 28 stations, along with upgraded electrical and communications infrastructure.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896274https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896280https://www.jpost.com/aliyah/article-896272https://www.ynetnews.com/article/b1lygnmkmlhttps://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896277https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896270https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896279

HEADLINESIran strikes widen as Gulf states fortifyKnesset rushes laws amid Haredi fundingNakba Day protests spark London security blitzThe time is now 4:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, Iran’s war with its regional neighbors and the perceived role of Gulf states are shaping security calculations as the conflict continues. Iran conducted attacks across a broad swath of the region, targeting the United Arab Emirates as a major focal point and striking Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Israel, Oman, Qatar, the autonomous Kurdistan Region of Iraq, Kuwait, Jordan and other partners, as well as hitting US bases. The Gulf states, which initially appeared to absorb blows without a direct response, have strengthened their air-defense networks and begun to project a more proactive defense and deterrence posture. Some analyses this week say perceptions of the Gulf states’ roles are shifting, with reports that certain states are moving to build up capabilities and defend themselves more assertively. There are also accounts of Saudi fighter jets hitting targets linked to Iran. Separately, Israel disclosed that it has begun supplying the Lebanese army with anti-explosive drone barbed wire to counter Hezbollah’s growing drone threat; the Israeli Defense Forces have issued about 158,000 square meters of wire, roughly 20 football fields, with a further 188,000 square meters in procurement. The Lebanon talks in Washington, involving military representatives for the first time, come ahead of the expiration of a three‑week ceasefire announced by a US president, highlighting ongoing efforts to manage cross-border risks. In this context, observers note signs that Gulf states are acting more independently while maintaining strategic alignment with the United States on Iran, as Washington seeks greater leverage.In Israeli Domestic Politics, the coalition is moving to fast‑track controversial laws ahead of the potential dissolution of the Knesset, a step that could bring the election date forward from October. The push accompanies tensions with ultra‑Orthodox parties over the conscription law and comes as the Prime Minister’s Office advances a five‑year plan for the Haredi community that would channel billions of shekels to the sector and entrench policy for years. The plan would allocate about a quarter of the Education Ministry’s construction budget to Haredi educational institutions and transfer roughly 44 million shekels annually to a dropout‑prevention program aimed at reducing enlistment in the IDF, with the aim of securing government approval before the dissolution vote, when maneuvering room would be tighter. Elsewhere, Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli said diaspora Jews should not be branded as traitors for choosing to stay outside Israel and rejected the language of threats during a recent Tel Aviv conference. Israel also marked Jerusalem Day with a flag march through the Old City and nationwide celebrations; tens of thousands participated, and security precautions were prominent as Itamar Ben‑Gvir asserted sovereignty on the Temple Mount, while police later arrested a suspect planned to carry out an attack during the festivities amid clashes among activists.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, London and other cities brace for Nakba Day protests, with the Metropolitan Police planning to deploy about 4,000 officers to keep order on what authorities expect could be a highly active policing day. Officers will be supported by live facial recognition, helicopters, drones, and other resources as Britain’s terrorism threat level remains at severe amid a rise in antisemitic incidents and attacks targeting Jewish communities. Separate from these security preparations, FC Barcelona apologized to Israeli fans after player Lamine Yamal waved a Palestinian flag at the team’s victory parade, stressing the moment was spontaneous and not an official political statement by the club, which highlighted its diverse, global fan base and said no official post would be made of the moment.In Israeli Economy and Business, Haifa Port opened a new cruise terminal as Israel’s tourism sector eyes a gradual recovery from security disruptions. The terminal, built with an investment of more than 16 million shekels, is set to begin operations with the May 14 cruise season and is designed to handle two large ships at once, positioning Haifa as the country’s main maritime gateway for cruise tourism. The facility expands passenger capacity to as many as one million per year, doubling the peak volumes seen in the sector’s best year, and includes a new duty‑free shop, expanded security screening, larger check‑in and border control areas, and upgraded electrical and communications infrastructure to support more robust operations.In Uplifting News, Israelis celebrate 59 years since the reunification of Jerusalem following the Six‑Day War, with nationwide observances and a flag‑bearing march through the Old City. The anniversary coincides with Jerusalem Day, and crowds joined in coordinated celebrations and official ceremonies to honor the city’s historical moment, accompanied by photographic coverage of the events.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896274https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896266https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/05/are-saudi-and-uae-strikes-iran-turning-point-pentagons-gulf-strategyhttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896280https://www.jpost.com/aliyah/article-896272https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-896268https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896277https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896270https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896279https://t.me/hnaftali/23017

HEADLINESIran seizes Hui Chuan, piracy armory exposedLebanon gets anti-explosive drone barbed wireAmericans drift from Israel amid warThe time is now 3:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, BBC reported that the vessel the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations said was taken to Iranian waters earlier today was a floating armory used by Chinese private military contractors in the region to protect vessels from piracy. The Honduras-flag Hui Chuan is identified as the vessel involved.In Regional Impacts, the IDF revealed it has supplied the Lebanese army with anti-explosive drone barbed wire, totaling about 158,000 square meters, roughly the size of 20 football fields, and it is in the process of procuring an additional 188,000 square meters as Hezbollah’s drone threat continues to grow.In US Policy Concerning Israel, an opinion piece argues that Prime Minister Netanyahu’s leadership has helped erode American support for Israel across parties, noting polling that shows more Americans sympathizing with the Palestinians, rising antisemitism among younger voters, and growing anger over the ongoing conflict with Iran and the civilian toll in Gaza. Separately, World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder urged Israel to urgently repair ties with Diaspora Jews, warning against taking this community for granted and stressing that Diaspora Jews remain among the most important ambassadors of the Jewish state; he spoke as the WJC marked 90 years since its founding and highlighted rising antisemitism, global extremism, and the security of Jewish communities.In Israeli Domestic Politics, Israel marked its 59th Jerusalem Day with a flag march through the Old City and nationwide celebrations, commemorating the reunification of Jerusalem after the Six-Day War. Tens of thousands joined the events, and the day also carried the May 14 anniversary of the Israeli Declaration of Independence. Before the march, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the Temple Mount and declared it “in our hands,” saying sovereignty had been restored through determination and deterrence. Later, police announced the arrest of a suspect planning a terror attack during the Jerusalem Day celebrations. Reports also noted clashes involving activists ahead of the march. Separately, an IDF colonel was suspended after a female officer filed a sexual-harassment complaint, with a Military Police Investigation opened and the findings to be reviewed by the Military Prosecutor’s Office; the IDF stressed its commitment to addressing harassment seriously, in context with related legal proceedings involving another military case. A Jerusalem Day poll from the Jerusalem Institute for Policy Research painted a nuanced picture: despite ongoing pressures, the city’s population continued to grow, with record-level construction and rising housing prices, and positive signals in workforce participation among Arab women and haredi men, even as several deep questions remain.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, FC Barcelona apologized to Israeli fans after star player Lamine Yamal waved a Palestinian flag at a victory parade. The club’s Hebrew-language statement said the moment was spontaneous and not planned by the club, and that video of it would not be posted on the club’s official channels, while stressing its pride in representing a global fan base that includes Israelis.In Uplifting News, Israelis celebrated 59 years since the reunification of Jerusalem after the Six Day War, with photographs and lighting of the occasion capturing the national mood and pride in the city’s modern history.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://t.me/DefenderDome/20752https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896266https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-896031https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-896265https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-896268https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896262https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896263https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896270https://t.me/hnaftali/23017

HEADLINESIran Defense Industry Slashed Ninety PercentIDF Delivers Anti-Explosive Drone Barbed Wire LebanonBen-Gvir Leads Temple Mount AscentThe time is now 2:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, the IDF disclosed that it, led by the Ground Technology Division, has been supplying the Lebanese army with anti-explosive drone barbed wire. To date, about 158,000 square meters have been issued, roughly the size of 20 football fields, and an additional 188,000 square meters are in the process of being procured, as Hezbollah’s drone threat continues to grow.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, a senior US official said Iran’s ability to threaten its neighbors and US interests has been dramatically reduced by the campaign against Tehran. Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, said Iran’s defense industry has been set back by about 90% and that Iran no longer poses the same level of threat across multiple domains, including the ability to transfer arms to Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Hamas, with those transfer paths and methods described as cut off. He also declined to directly address reports that Iran had retained significant missile and drone capabilities. Separately in the north, a report cited ongoing fighting that allegedly resulted in more than twenty Hezbollah militants being killed in the last 24 hours by the IDF.In Israeli Domestic Politics, World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder urged Israel to urgently repair ties with Diaspora Jews, saying the bond must be nurtured and cannot be taken for granted as antisemitism and global extremism continue to challenge Jewish communities. The comments came during an interview with The Jerusalem Post as the WJC marked its 90th anniversary. In a related development, an IDF colonel was suspended after a complaint of a sexual nature by a female officer triggered a Military Police investigation, with findings to be forwarded to the Military Prosecutor’s Office. The piece also notes that last month the State Attorney’s Office indicted military defense attorney Idan Dvir on multiple counts of sexual offenses against women, including soldiers and a police agent.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, FC Barcelona apologized to Israeli fans after star player Lamine Yamal waved a Palestinian flag at a victory parade, stating the moment was spontaneous and not planned by the club, with video footage not to be posted on official channels and emphasizing the club’s diverse, global fanbase. An open letter to Peter Beinart warned that the Left is turning on Jews in ways not related to Israel, citing a Brooklyn Park Slope Food Coop incident where a member’s remark about “Jewish supremacism” drew applause. UK King Charles III, in the King’s Speech at the State Opening of Parliament, pledged urgent action to tackle antisemitism, foreign threats, and extremism, and outlined 37 upcoming bills, including measures on state threats, national security, and cyber resilience, while reaffirming support for a two-state solution and ongoing Middle East peace efforts.In Uplifting News, Israel marked its 59th Jerusalem Day with a flag march through the Old City and nationwide celebrations tied to the city’s reunification after the 1967 Six-Day War and the anniversary of the Israeli Declaration of Independence. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir each led a ceremonial ascent to the Temple Mount, declaring sovereignty, while police later announced the arrest of a suspect who had been planning a terror attack during the celebrations. Reports also described clashes among activists in Jerusalem’s Old City ahead of the parade.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896266https://www.jpost.com/international/article-896258https://t.me/newssil/201642https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-896265https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896262https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896263https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896270https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-896018https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896256https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-896268

HEADLINESSecond Marmaris Flotilla Set to SailCENTCOM Says Iran Threat Significantly DiminishedKnesset Vote Could Push Elections to SeptemberThe time is now 1:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, dozens of vessels set sail from Marmaris, Turkey, as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla’s second blockade run since Israeli forces intercepted much of the convoy in April. The flotilla’s tracker showed ships heading south from the Marmaris departure point, with Marine Traffic confirming movements at sea and the group posting updates on Instagram about at least two vessels in motion. Some ships that embarked on April 15 did not appear to be joining the latest effort after the Crete interception last month. Greenpeace’s Arctic Sunrise was reported near Crete by tracker networks. Saif Abu Keshek, a Steering Committee member for the Global Sumud Flotilla who was detained in Israel and deported earlier this week, told reporters that 54 vessels and more than 500 activists would take part from Marmaris, saying the action is planned to precede the Nakba commemorations.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Iran’s ability to threaten its neighbors has been described as dramatically degraded by US bombing campaigns, with the defense industry hit hard and capabilities reduced. Admiral Brad Cooper, head of CENTCOM, told a US Senate committee that Tehran’s threat has been significantly diminished and that Iran is no longer able to threaten regional partners or the United States in the ways it could before, across every domain. He avoided commenting directly on reports that Iran, stockpiling arms in underground facilities, had retained substantial missile and drone capabilities, instead emphasizing that transfer routes to allies such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and Hamas in Gaza have been cut off.In Israeli Domestic Politics, a series of developments reflect security concerns and domestic tensions. An IDF colonel was suspended after a female officer’s complaint of sexual harassment, with a Military Police investigation opened and the findings forwarded to the Military Prosecutor’s Office for review. The IDF stressed its zero-tolerance stance on sexual harassment as the investigation proceeds. Jerusalem Day data from the Jerusalem Institute for Policy Research show the city remains deeply complex: population growth and record construction coexist with rising housing prices, negative migration, and gaps between communities, while Arab women and ultra-Orthodox men are entering the workforce at higher rates from low baselines, and residents report growing satisfaction with municipal services. Politically, Liberman warned that Prime Minister Netanyahu could initiate a military operation for election purposes amid a coalition crisis over a haredi draft bill, as the Knesset dissolution bill moves toward a vote that could bring elections up to September or mid-October. Within Arad, the Gur Hasidic community issued an internal directive calling for gender-separated bus seating during crowded peak hours to uphold modesty, a move the municipality said is not a citywide policy but a community guideline. Separately, military prosecutors filed two additional indictments against suspects ranked at Sergeant First Class level in offenses connected to smuggling goods into Gaza, tax offenses, and related matters, as investigations into veteran IAF commanders’ abuse of younger officers continued, with earlier reports noting initiation ceremonies that included violence and degradation and resulting sentences and penalties.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, perspectives and policy actions underscore ongoing concerns. An open letter to Peter Beinart contends that parts of the Left have begun targeting Jews in ways unrelated to Israel, arguing Beinart’s positions have moved toward mainstreaming rhetoric that can fuel antisemitism, and challenging him to take a stand with the Jewish community. In London, King Charles III delivered the King’s Speech at the State Opening of Parliament, outlining 37 bills including measures to tackle threats from foreign state actors, a National Security Bill to curb online extremism and expand state threat licensing, and a Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, while reaffirming a commitment to pursue peace in the Middle East and support for a two-state solution. In Israel, Prime Minister Netanyahu condemned violence against Ethiopian Jews and pledged to apply the full weight of the law against the murderers of Yemanu Zalka and Destao Tsakol, while vowing continued efforts to combat violence, racism, and discrimination and to pursue the return of Haymanut Kasau, a missing Ethiopian girl, framing these efforts as part of a broader national mission.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/international/article-896249https://www.jpost.com/international/article-896258https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896262https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896263https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896261https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896246https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896253https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-896018https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896256https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896248

HEADLINESSecond Marmaris flotilla sails toward GazaFour IAF commanders indicted for abuseTrump Xi discuss China's Iran supportThe time is now 12:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, dozens of ships set sail from Marmaris, Turkey toward Gaza as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla’s second blockade run, a continuation of a protest flotilla that saw 20 vessels intercepted by the Israeli Navy in April. Activist trackers place vessels traveling south of the Marmaris departure point, with Marine Traffic confirming several ships had departed at sea and GSF posting videos of at least two vessels sailing. Some of the boats that joined the April 15 group did not appear to be taking part in the second attempt after confrontations near Crete on April 29, while Greenpeace’s Arctic Sunrise appears near Crete according to trackers. Saif Abu Keshek, a Steering Committee member who was detained in Israel on April 30 and deported on Sunday, told reporters on a Wednesday briefing that 54 vessels and more than 500 activists would embark from Marmaris, adding, “We sail one day before the Nakba, not only to commemorate the anniversary of the Nakba, but to act on it.” In addition, the IHH Turkish organization behind the infamous 2010 Marmara flotilla is identified as part of the force leaving Marmaris for Gaza in what organizers call the “Freedom Flotilla,” a reminder some observers point to from the past as the same organization involved in earlier clashes; commentators note the 2010 outcome remains a reference point.In US Policy Concerning Israel, President Trump discussed with Chinese leader Xi Jinping the question of China’s support for Iran, according to remarks from the President describing their discussions on the topic.In Israeli Domestic Politics, investigators with the military police reveal a pattern of abuse by veteran Israel Air Force commanders who subjected younger officers to initiation ceremonies that involved beating and degradation. Four involved figures have indictments on file, with sentences ranging from 26 to 50 days of detention, 45 days to three months suspended, and demotion to Private, along with fines between 500 and 1,500 shekels; the IDF says it maintains zero tolerance and will pursue justice as needed. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned racism against Ethiopian Jews and denounced the murders of Yemanu Binyamin Zalka and Destao Tsakol during a state memorial, pledging to apply the full weight of the law and to continue fighting violence, racism, and discrimination, while highlighting a broader mission to locate Haymanut Kasau and linking the effort to the return of hostages. A JPPI Israeli Society Index poll finds that 63% of Israelis support the immediate formation of a commission of inquiry into the October 7 massacre, with support across Jewish and Arab segments and varying by political alignment; left-wing and center-left respondents overwhelmingly back immediate action, while a notable portion of right-wing respondents prefer delaying the move, and opinions differ on the preferred type of inquiry. Separately, the Foreign Ministry says Israel will sue The New York Times over a defamation column by Nicholas Kristof, with Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Sa’ar directing the move; the process, if pursued in the United States, would hinge on where suit is filed and would likely face early challenges over the column’s status as protected opinion, though the court could weigh defamation standards differently. Jerusalem Day is set to begin this evening, and festivities are already underway, including Police Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir unfurling an Israeli flag atop the Temple Mount.In Israeli Economy and Business, Israel Aerospace Industries has announced that its board of directors recommends merging its subsidiary Elta Systems into IAI. Based in Ashdod, Elta develops a wide range of advanced technologies, including the Green Pine radar system, Israel’s high-power radar capable of detecting distant targets and ballistic missiles from across the region, and it also contributes to the Arrow and David’s Sling interception systems, as well as communication systems, electronic warfare, and tactical radar systems for aircraft and naval platforms. Elta manufactures maritime tools such as the Super Dvora, unmanned submarines, and other weapons systems; more than seventy percent of Elta’s business is with foreign clients. Under the proposed framework, all of Elta’s assets and obligations would transfer to IAI without compensation, and Elta would cease to exist as a separate legal entity.In Uplifting News, a rare, personal perspective on Jerusalem Day follows Alon Wald, who directs the Ammunition Hill National Memorial Site in Jerusalem and traces a life shaped by the absence of his father, a paratrooper killed at Ammunition Hill during the Six-Day War. Wald describes how his father’s surviving unit chose to visit bereaved families rather than celebrate their own victory, forming bonds with those families and influencing Wald’s path into the paratroopers and his leadership of the memorial site, which now welcomes veterans, students, soldiers, and tens of thousands who found shelter at Ammunition Hill following Oct. 7. In parallel, Jerusalem Day celebrations are underway, setting the scene for commemorations across the city.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/international/article-896249https://t.me/abualiexpress/122336https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76307https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896253https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896248https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896243https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896240https://t.me/ILtoday/19085https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-896235https://www.jpost.com/podcast/article-896254https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76306

HEADLINESYemen prisoner swap hits 1,600Iraq seeks IMF loan amid warIAI absorbs Elta Systems in mergerThe time is now 11:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, Iraqi officials have approached the International Monetary Fund to secure financial assistance due to the conflict in the Middle East. Initial conversations took place last month during the spring meetings of the IMF and World Bank in Washington, and discussions are ongoing about how much funding Iraq would need and how any loan would be structured. The war that began on February 28 between the US, Israel, and Iran, triggered Tehran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, has rocked the entire Middle East, wreaking damage on infrastructure and economies. Iraq has been hard hit by the war, with most of its oil exports, which represent nearly all government income, cut off by the closure of the critical waterway, which previously carried about one-fifth of the world's crude oil. No comment was immediately available from the IMF or the Iraqi embassy. Iraq has the world's fifth-largest petroleum reserves, and the economy is closely tied to oil exports. Iraq's last financial deal with the IMF was a $3.8 billion standby arrangement that expired in July 2019, of which $1.49 billion was drawn, according to the IMF's website.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the internationally recognized Yemeni government and the Iran-backed Houthis will exchange more than 1,600 prisoners, the office of the UN special envoy for Yemen said on Thursday, marking the largest release of detainees since the outbreak of the war in Yemen. Under the agreement, the Houthis will release 580 prisoners, including seven Saudis and 20 Sudanese, while the government will release 1,100 Houthi prisoners, Houthi official Abdulqader al-Mortada said in a post on X/Twitter. The two sides agreed to hold further talks on additional releases and allow mutual visits to detention facilities. They also agreed on an implementation plan with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to move forward with the release operation. "The agreement includes the release of a number of coalition forces personnel, members of the armed forces and security services, fighters from various military formations and the popular resistance, as well as politicians and journalists who spent years in Houthi detention,” Yahya K.In Israeli Domestic Politics, after latest draft-law crisis, Haredi parties weigh whether Netanyahu is still their only option. Degel HaTorah and Shas are expected to remain aligned with prime minister despite repeated threats to dissolve Knesset, while Hasidic faction Agudat Yisrael says it will examine what Bennett, Lapid and Liberman might offer after election.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, a Georgian white supremacist group leader was sentenced to 15 years in prison on Wednesday for planning and soliciting racial mass killings, including a plot to poison New York City Jewish schoolchildren, the US Department of Justice announced. After having been extradited from Moldova last May, Maniac Murder Cult (MKY) leader Michail Chkhikvishvili, also known as “Commander Butcher,” had pleaded guilty in November to soliciting hate crimes and providing instructions to make bombs and ricin to further his organization’s goals of accelerationism, ethnic cleansing, and racial supremacy. National Security Assistant Attorney General John Eisenberg said in a Wednesday statement that the sentencing of Chkhikvishvili had taken “a monster off our streets” and protected “our communities at least for a time.” According to the criminal complaint, the DoJ, and past statements by the US embassy in Moldova, then-20-year-old Chkhikvishvili attempted in 2023 to solicit, unbeknownst to him, an undercover FBI agent to commit bombings and arson against Jews and racial minorities. The agent was told that they could apply to join MKY by providing videos of murder, brutal beatings, arson, or bombings.In Israeli Economy and Business, Israel Aerospace Industries has recommended merging its subsidiary Elta Systems into IAI. Elta, headquartered in Ashdod, is responsible for a wide range of advanced technologies. It is the developer and manufacturer of the "Green Pine" radar system, Israel's high-power radar that detects distant targets and ballistic missiles from Yemen, Iran, and anywhere in the Middle East. It is also responsible for the Arrow, David's Sling, and other interception systems. In addition, Elta is responsible for communication systems, electronic warfare, and tactical radar systems for fighter jets and naval ships, and manufactures maritime tools, including ships such as the Super Dvora, unmanned submarines, and advanced weapon systems. More than seventy percent of the company's transactions are with foreign clients. According to the proposed framework, all of Elta's activities, assets, rights, and obligations will be fully transferred to IAI without compensation, and Elta will cease to exist as a separate legal entity.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896236https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896241https://www.ynetnews.com/article/sk8k6imjfxhttps://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896232https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-896235

HEADLINESIraq seeks IMF lifeline amid Hormuz disruptionIsrael sues NYT over Kristof columnBen-Gvir claims Temple Mount sovereignty amid clashesThe time is now 10:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, Iraqi officials have approached the International Monetary Fund to secure financial assistance as the conflict in the Middle East disrupts the economy, with initial conversations held last month during the IMF-World Bank spring meetings in Washington and ongoing discussions on funding needs and loan structuring. The war that began on February 28 between the United States, Israel, and Iran, and Tehran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, has rocked the region and damaged infrastructure and economies. Iraq, whose government income largely comes from oil exports, has been hard hit by the disruption of shipments through the waterway, which previously carried about one-fifth of the world’s crude. No comment was immediately available from the IMF or the Iraqi embassy. Iraq’s last financial arrangement with the IMF was a $3.8 billion standby facility that expired in July 2019, of which $1.49 billion was drawn. Analysts, in a separate assessment of regional dynamics, point to five reasons the US-China meetings matter for the Middle East. The analysis notes that Beijing is stepping carefully in the region to avoid direct conflict while expanding its role, including incremental steps such as deploying naval assets and aiding talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia to stabilize relations; it also highlights China’s wariness of conflict zones like Syria as it seeks to shape regional outcomes, all within a broader context of Washington and Beijing weighing policy in the Middle East during a high-level visit to China by the US president.In Israeli Domestic Politics, Israel will take legal action against The New York Times over a column by Nicholas Kristof that alleged serious sexual abuse of Palestinians in Israeli prisons, with the Prime Minister’s Office calling the piece “one of the most hideous and distorted lies ever published” and directing officials to begin preparations for a defamation lawsuit. The case centers on whether the statements crossed the line from opinion to defamation and where the suit would be filed, with no immediate clarity on jurisdiction. Separately, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir ascended the Temple Mount in Jerusalem’s Old City ahead of the planned Jerusalem Day flag march and declared the site to be “in our hands,” saying sovereignty had been restored. Earlier on Thursday, activists from across the political spectrum clashed in the Old City as the march approached; Youths clashed with Old City residents and left-wing activists from the Standing Together movement, throwing chairs in one incident, while police escorted left-wing activists in another, as Standing Together said the group was protecting Palestinian residents from violence by extremists.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, a Georgian white supremacist group leader was sentenced to 15 years in prison for plotting and soliciting racial mass killings, including a plan to poison New York City Jewish schoolchildren. Michail Chkhikvishvili, also known as “Commander Butcher,” had pleaded guilty to soliciting hate crimes and providing instructions to make bombs and ricin to further his organization’s goals, after his extradition from Moldova last year. National Security Assistant Attorney General John Eisenberg described the sentence as removing “a monster from our streets” and protecting communities at least for a time.In Israeli Economy and Business, Israel Aerospace Industries has recommended merging its subsidiary Elta Systems into IAI. Elta, based in Ashdod, develops a wide range of advanced technologies, including the Green Pine radar system and interception systems such as Arrow and David’s Sling, as well as communications, electronic warfare, and tactical radars. More than seventy percent of Elta’s transactions are with foreign clients, and under the proposed framework all of Elta’s assets, rights, and obligations would be transferred to IAI without compensation, with Elta ceasing to exist as a separate legal entity. Separately, Steadicopter unveiled a Golden Eagle rotary-wing unmanned system with a mothership architecture designed to support sustained stand-off intelligence gathering and the deployment of smaller ISR drones in contested or denied environments. The Golden Eagle is fully electric, equipped with advanced sensors and payload integration, and the mothership concept would allow it to act as an airborne launch platform while staying outside hostile air-defense coverage, enabling improved real-time targeting and decision-making in complex missions.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896236https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896231https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896230https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896229https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896232https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-896235https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-896222

HEADLINESIsrael and Greece push Great Sea InterconnectorIRGC ships sail Hormuz after Tehran nodNY Times defamation suit over Kristof op-edThe time is now 9:02 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, Greece-Israel relations are flourishing, Israel's Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel told The Jerusalem Post after a three-day diplomatic and economic mission to Athens. The visit aimed to deepen the strategic partnership with Greece, with a primary focus on infrastructure projects, energy, regional connectivity, and security. Haskel served as a keynote speaker at the Maritime Med conference and the East Med Energy Transition Summit, and she held high-level meetings with Greek officials, including Deputy Foreign Minister Alexandra Papadopoulou, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Economic Diplomacy Harry Theoharis, and Alternate Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Konstantinos Kyranakis. Haskel emphasized Israel’s commitment to advancing large-scale regional infrastructure, notably the Great Sea Interconnector, a subsea electricity cable linking Israel, Cyprus, and Greece to mainland Europe.Separately, the IRGC Navy reports that about 30 ships have crossed the Strait of Hormuz since last night with Tehran's approval, a development watched closely by regional observers.In US Policy Concerning Israel, a column argues that five reasons the US-China meetings matter for the Middle East deserve attention. The piece notes that President Trump’s historic visit to China signals potential shifts in global alignments and that both sides appear to seek accommodations to avoid conflict. It highlights China’s growing regional role, including its maritime presence and involvement in talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia, as well as Beijing’s cautious approach to volatile zones such as Syria. Taken together, the analysis suggests the talks could influence security, energy, and diplomatic dynamics in the Middle East.In Israeli Domestic Politics, Israel announced it will take legal action against The New York Times over Nicholas Kristof’s column alleging sexual abuse of Palestinians in Israeli prisons, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar directing officials to prepare a defamation lawsuit, calling the claims one of the most hideous and distorted lies published against the State of Israel. Separately, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir entered Jerusalem’s Old City and ascended the Temple Mount ahead of the Jerusalem Day flag march, declaring the site “in our hands” and signaling sovereignty “restored,” as clashes between activists and residents and police occurred in the run-up to the event. In a courtroom setting, Netanyahu testified that his medical condition remains proper and excellent, denying claims of pancreatic cancer, detailing regular exercises and tests, and noting a past history of prostate issues including an eight-millimeter early-stage cancerous growth detected toward the end of 2025, with further testimony to follow.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, a Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism Ministry report examines Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor—the organization cited by Nicholas Kristof in The New York Times op-ed—as being led by a Hamas member who is subject to an administrative detention order in Israel. Israel’s foreign ministry condemned the op-ed as among the worst blood libels in modern press, while the Diaspora Ministry’s report details the group’s origins and Swiss registration, noting its operations from Geneva.In Israeli Economy and Business, The New York Times defended its op-ed on Palestinian abuse as Israel’s military readies a new F-35 upgrade, a development noted alongside ongoing coverage of regional security concerns. Finland hosted a two-day Finnish-Israeli Defense Industry Seminar in Helsinki, led by the Israel Defense Ministry’s International Defense Cooperation Directorate, with 32 Israeli defense companies taking part. The delegation showcased capabilities across air defense, unmanned systems, counter-UAS, border protection, autonomous platforms, advanced munitions, C2 and communications, electro-optical solutions, and cyber intelligence, and included seven new defense tech startups under the Mafat for Startups program, guided by SIBAT Director Brigadier-General (Reserve) Yair Kulas.In Uplifting News, Nasreen Kadri and her partner David Ziton are entering a new, serious stage following Kadri’s engagement after a divorce. The piece centers on their milestone while also noting a slate of other regional topics and stories touched on in passing.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896230https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896229https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896231https://www.jpost.com/podcast/jpost-headlines/article-896227https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-896225https://www.jpost.com/international/article-896223https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-896222https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896220https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896211https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1321455https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76298

HEADLINESVahidi Emerges as Post-Khamenei Power BrokerSeized Vessel Aims Toward Iranian WatersBeirut Accuses Tehran of Violating Vienna ConventionThe time is now 8:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Iranian Retaliation, there is no serious political will inside Washington for regime change in Iran, a condition the piece argues leaves Israel’s long-term survival tied to Tehran’s fate. The Islamic Republic’s ideology is described as built not on coexistence but on permanent confrontation, antisemitism, revolutionary expansionism, and the export of instability across the Middle East. The article notes that millions of Iranians rose up seeking the end of the Islamic Republic rather than a swap of rulers, warning that Washington could embrace a cosmetic transition that elevates figures such as Ahmad Vahidi — a sanctioned terrorist linked to the AMIA bombing and decades of bloodshed against Jews, Israelis, Americans, and Iranians alike — as de facto power brokers in a post-Khamenei order.In Regional Impacts, authorities report that a vessel seized off Fujairah is now heading toward Iranian territorial waters after being boarded by unauthorized personnel while at anchor about 38 nautical miles northeast of the United Arab Emirates port. India said an Indian-flagged ship was attacked off the coast of Oman on Wednesday and that all crew are safe, with New Delhi condemning the attack as unacceptable. A Chinese supertanker, the Yuan Hua Hu, which had been stranded in the Gulf, sailed through the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday and is now anchored off the Gulf of Oman near the US-blocked area. The developments come amid a US naval blockade in the region and as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Beijing. Separately, the IRGC Navy says about 30 ships have crossed the Strait of Hormuz with Tehran’s approval since last night.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Beirut has written to the United Nations accusing Tehran of violating the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and of conducting unauthorized activities on Lebanese soil, a move the Lebanese foreign ministry described as a response to Tehran’s letters to the Security Council. Beirut says Tehran refused to recall its ambassador after Lebanon declared Mohammad Reza Shibani persona non grata, and it cites Article 9 of the Vienna Convention, which allows a receiving state to notify the sending state that a diplomat is persona non grata. Also in this topic, reports describe a targeted elimination in southern Lebanon, with details not provided in the available material.In Israeli Domestic Politics, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu testified that his medical condition is proper and excellent, saying he does not suffer from pancreatic cancer and that his health indicators are normal; he noted a benign enlarged prostate and that an eight-millimeter cancerous growth was identified in late 2025. He said he exercises and undergoes regular medical tests. Greece-Israel relations are flourishing, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel, who led a three-day mission to Athens focusing on infrastructure, energy, regional connectivity, and security. She highlighted the Great Sea Interconnector, a subsea electricity cable linking Israel, Cyprus, and Greece to Europe, and underscored ongoing discussions on broader regional connectivity, including India–Middle East–Europe ties. The High Court of Justice allowed the Attorney-General to submit additional classified material regarding IDF Major-General Roman Gofman, Netanyahu’s candidate for Mossad chief, after a prior hearing on the appointment; the court has not yet ruled on petitions challenging the appointment. Finally, state prosecutors filed an indictment against Ahmad Daas, a 27-year-old Israeli resident from Tira, accusing him of maintaining contact with a hostile foreign agent and four counts of passing information to the enemy with intent to harm state security during wartime; prosecutors allege he used his work routes as a truck driver to document for the foreign agent, who had operated under the names Abu Bakr and later N... during the Iran war.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-896203https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896197https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76298https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896206https://t.me/newssil/201612https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896220https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896211https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896207https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896201

HEADLINESFujairah vessel boarded Gulf shipping fearsBeirut accuses Tehran of Vienna Convention breachAhmad Daas indicted for spyingThe time is now 7:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations said a report was received on Thursday of an incident 38 nautical miles northeast of the United Arab Emirates port of Fujairah. The vessel was boarded by unauthorized personnel while at anchor and is now headed for Iranian territorial waters. The incident comes as India said on Thursday that an Indian-flagged ship had been attacked off the coast of Oman on Wednesday, with all crew on board reported safe. India’s foreign ministry condemned the attack as unacceptable and said civilian mariners remain targets. A Chinese-flagged supertanker, the Yuan Hua Hu, sailed through the Hormuz on Wednesday after being stranded in the Gulf for more than two months and is now anchored off the Gulf of Oman near the area where the United States has placed a blockade on Iranian ships. The crossing occurred ahead of a meeting between the leaders of the United States and China in Beijing, and after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited the region.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Beirut accuses Tehran of violating Vienna Convention in complaint to UN, Beirut’s letter to the United Nations dated April 21, 2026, alleges Tehran violated the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and interfered in Lebanon’s sovereign decision-making by refusing to recall former diplomats no longer welcome in the country. Beirut’s foreign ministry said the letter was not a formal complaint but a response to letters Tehran sent to the Security Council. Under the Vienna Convention, the receiving state may at any time notify the sending state that the head of mission or any member of the diplomatic staff is persona non grata. Tehran has refused to recall its ambassador after Beirut declared Mohammad Reza Shibani persona non grata. Separately, two civilians were seriously injured and one lightly injured when an explosive drone struck Rosh Hanikra, with the wounded evacuated to Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya. The Israel Defense Forces said the drone was launched by Hezbollah, calling the attack a blatant violation of ceasefire understandings between Israel and the Iran-backed group. Avigdor Liberman criticized the government’s handling of the northern front, saying lawlessness must be stopped. The incident followed Israeli strikes on Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon, and the army issued evacuation warnings to residents of several Lebanese towns.In Israeli Domestic Politics, prosecutors filed an indictment in the Central District Court in Lod against Ahmad Daas, a 27-year-old resident of Tira, accusing him of maintaining contact with a hostile foreign agent and four counts of passing information to the enemy with intent to harm state security during the war with Iran. Daas, who worked as a truck driver, traveled across the country and to sensitive sites for loading and unloading, and allegedly used those routes to carry out documentation tasks for the foreign agent, who on Telegram used the name Abu Bakr and later another alias.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Prince Harry has said antisemitism in the United Kingdom is deeply troubling, writing in the New Statesman that while anger about Middle East events is understandable, nothing justifies hostility toward Jewish people or their faith. He noted a rise in antisemitism since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, including arson at Jewish sites in London and two Jewish men stabbed in April 2026. He urged that legitimate protest not spill into hatred and called for unity. London police said they were planning unprecedented security measures to protect Jewish communities.In Uplifting News, חגיגת הניצחון של "המירוץ למיליון" - והזוכה שלא הופיע reports the victory celebration for The Amazing Race and notes that the winner did not appear at the ceremony.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896197https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896206https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896195https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896201https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896194https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1321401

HEADLINES- Hezbollah drone wounds Israelis, ceasefire violated- UAE directly involved in actions against Iran- US pushes Jerusalem embassy moveThe time is now 6:02 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, according to the Iranian state news agency Mehr, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the United Arab Emirates was directly involved in military actions against Iran.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, a Hezbollah‐launched drone strike on Rosh Hanikra wounded three Israeli civilians, with two seriously injured and one lightly injured. The wounded were evacuated to Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya for treatment. The Israeli Defense Forces said the attack was carried out by Hezbollah and represented a blatant violation of ceasefire understandings. Avigdor Liberman, head of the Yisrael Beytenu party, criticized the government’s handling of the northern front and called for an immediate response to stop the attacks. The incident followed an IDF campaign that had begun striking Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon, and the IDF Arabic spokesperson warned residents of several Lebanese towns to evacuate.In US Policy Concerning Israel, a US diplomat urged moving the embassy to Jerusalem ahead of Jerusalem Day. The event near the Old City walls drew about 30 senior diplomats from 15 countries and highlighted Jerusalem’s status as Israel’s capital and a growing hub for diplomacy, governance, innovation, and research. The evening also marked the launch of a new booklet, Jerusalem: A Strategic Base for Diplomats, designed to introduce foreign diplomats and their families to the city’s tech sector, educational institutions, and essential services. A Jerusalem map was unveiled, and attendees received a Jerusalem pin and a replica of the priestly blessing inscription discovered in the City of David. Panama’s Ambassador to Israel, Ezra Cohen, shared a personal story about his father, Moshe Cohen, who fought in Jerusalem’s Jewish Quarter during the 1948 War of Independence and was captured by Jordanian forces.In Israeli Domestic Politics, the government is poised to approve next week the establishment of an Israel Defense Forces museum in the compound in Jerusalem that was formerly occupied by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency. The plan would relocate the army’s recruitment center in the capital, currently in Romema, to the site beside the museum, and a bureau for the defense minister is expected to be established there. The move comes in the context of laws enacted in October 2024 banning UNRWA from operating in Israel, with the legislation taking effect the following January and prompting the closure of the agency’s main offices in northeastern Jerusalem.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, a opinion piece argues that rising antisemitism is not merely a Jewish problem but a crisis for Western civilization. The ADL Global 100 Survey found that 46% of adults worldwide hold significant antisemitic beliefs—the highest level since the survey began. In the United States, 24% said recent attacks against Jews were understandable, 30% believe Jews have too much influence in politics and media, and 27% said American Jews should answer for the actions of Israel. The author contends antisemitism is a broad civilizational challenge and calls for renewed Jewish‑Christian partnership to confront Jew-hatred.In Israeli Economy and Business, a recall has been issued for the popular Vanilla Liqueur after a health authority flagged missing labeling of eggs as an allergen and the absence of eggs among the listed ingredients. Product details: Vanilla Liqueur, 500 ml, manufactured by Israelicar; Barcode 7290011457068. Consumers with egg allergies are advised to avoid the product while authorities coordinate with the producer for removal from sale.In Uplifting News, archaeologists announced the discovery of an ancient stone tunnel near Kibbutz Ramat Rachel in southern Jerusalem during preventative excavations for a new neighborhood development promoted by the Israel Land Authority. The tunnel is expected to measure about 50 meters in length, five meters high, and three meters wide. Descending from the surface, researchers found a hewn opening filled with sewage accumulated over centuries. Parts of the tunnel remain collapsed, and officials say the full extent and purpose of the passage are not yet known. The find underscores the care and planning invested by ancient builders and contributes to our understanding of the region’s long history.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1321366https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896195https://t.me/ILtoday/19083https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896158https://worldisraelnews.com/israel-to-establish-idf-museum-at-former-unrwa-jerusalem-headquarters/https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-896165https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1321368https://www.jpost.com/archaeology/article-896167

HEADLINESHamas Disarmament Blocks Gaza ReconstructionHezbollah Drones Strike Rosh Hanikra Civilians HurtGlobal Antisemitism Hits Historic High ADL FindsThe time is now 5:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, the US-backed Board of Peace is weighing a plan to begin implementing President Donald Trump's Gaza reconstruction and governance framework in areas of the Strip outside Hamas control, as Hamas refuses to disarm. Board envoy Nickolay Mladenov warned Hamas is tightening its grip on the population and obstructing reconstruction, saying: “Hamas is consolidating its grip on the population. It is taxing people in the street who have nothing left to give.” The deadlock over disarmament has stalled reconstruction and related governance steps, delaying the entry of a new Palestinian technocratic administration and other milestones.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Hezbollah-linked attacks along the northern border left civilians injured after an explosive drone struck Rosh Hanikra, with two people seriously injured and a third lightly injured, and wounded were transported to Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya. Separately, reports described a Hezbollah suicide drone strike that wounded at least three Israeli civilians in Rosh Hanikra. The incident was described as a violation of ceasefire understandings. Israel’s military said it has begun striking Hezbollah infrastructure sites in several areas in southern Lebanon, and an air strike was reported in the village of Sakhmar in the western Al-Baqa region.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, rising antisemitism worldwide is described as a crisis for Western civilization, not merely a Jewish problem, according to reporting on the ADL Global 100 Survey. The survey found 46% of adults globally hold significant antisemitic beliefs—the highest level tracked in the survey’s history. In the United States, 24% said recent attacks against Jews were “understandable,” 30% believe Jews have too much influence in politics and media, and 27% said American Jews should answer for Israel’s actions. Taken together, the findings reflect a troubling pattern that many say demands a renewed moral and cultural response.In Israeli Economy and Business, Israel’s Defense Ministry signed a contract with Elbit Systems subsidiary Cyclone to develop an extended-range capability for the F-35 Adir fighter jet, marking the first time F-35s will be equipped with external fuel tanks. The deal, valued at over $34 million, will cover development and integration of external tanks based on Cyclone’s design originally created for the F-16. The program is part of a broader force-buildup led by Defense Minister Israel Katz and the ministry’s director-general. The upgrade aims to extend the F-35’s operational range, reduce reliance on aerial refueling, and boost flexibility on long-range missions, though it remains unclear whether the external tanks would affect the jet’s stealth characteristics.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://worldisraelnews.com/board-of-peace-preparing-plan-b-for-gaza-reconstruction-as-hamas-refuses-to-disarm/https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896195https://t.me/ILtoday/19083https://t.me/abualiexpress/122301https://t.me/StandWithUsBreakingNews/8164https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76291https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-896165https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-896177

HEADLINESIran Seizes Ships Near Strait of HormuzIsrael Strikes Hezbollah Sites, Evacuation OrderedArraba Mayor Shooting Solved, Indictments LoomThe time is now 4:02 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, authorities report that a vessel near the Strait of Hormuz was boarded and seized, then redirected to Iran, an incident unfolding as President Trump meets with President Xi in Beijing and seeks Chinese help to press Tehran toward talks; UK maritime authorities said the ship was boarded while anchored near Fujairah. Separately, Gaza residents in eastern Deir al-Balah received Israeli evacuation warnings and, according to posts, moved roughly 500 meters west of Salah al-Din Street, away from the area known as the yellow line. In the Gulf, Iranian forces reportedly hijacked a commercial vessel off the coast of the UAE and are steering it to Iranian territorial waters; another vessel was seized 38 nautical miles northeast of Fujairah and is similarly bound for Iranian waters.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the IDF says it has begun striking Hezbollah infrastructure sites in several areas in southern Lebanon. The Israeli military also issued evacuation warnings for multiple towns in southern Lebanon and western Beqaa ahead of airstrikes on Hezbollah targets, instructing residents of Teffahta, Kfar Melki, Houmine al-Fawqa and Mazraat Sinai in south Lebanon; and Ain al-Tineh, Yohmor, Sohmor and Labaya in western Beqaa, northeastern Lebanon, to evacuate at least a kilometer away.In Israeli Domestic Politics, the Israel Police said they have solved the March 8 attempted assassination of Arraba Mayor Ahmad Nassar, with a prosecutor’s declaration filed against the 26-year-old shooter from Arraba and against a 56-year-old relative accused of having sent him; the mayor was shot seven times and seriously wounded, while Dr. Anwar Yassin, head of a local committee, was moderately wounded. Investigators tied the 56-year-old to the case and indictments are expected in the coming days. The incident drew condemnation from civil society groups and underscored concerns about violence in Arab society. United Torah Judaism said it is exhausted by what it called time-wasting tactics and opposes the proposed Continuity Law amendment, signaling support for dissolving the Knesset. Separately, Itamar Ben-Gvir was reported to have expressed understanding of the Chief of Staff’s move while sharply criticizing it.In Israeli Economy and Business, the Israeli Ministry of Defense and Elbit Systems signed a contract worth over 100 million NIS to develop external fuel tanks for Israel’s F-35 aircraft, Adir, thereby increasing the planes’ flight range.In Uplifting News, tomorrow is Jerusalem Day, and the channel continues the tradition of memory for fallen fighters, including Rafael Kaudrus z”l, whose death on the Lebanon border two years ago after a Hezbollah drone strike was cited as a catalyst for this observance. Also, researchers in Jerusalem uncovered an ancient underground passage about 50 meters long near Kibbutz Ramot Rachel during excavations ahead of a new neighborhood, with experts still working to determine its purpose and age.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.ynetnews.com/article/h1oateq1gghttps://t.me/abualiexpress/122295https://t.me/ILtoday/19081https://t.me/selena_updates/63731https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76291https://t.me/selena_updates/63732https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896141https://t.me/newssil/201595https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1321280https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1321279https://t.me/newssil/201592https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76290https://t.me/abualiexpress/122296https://t.me/newssil/201594

HEADLINES- Iran World Cup departure rally amid tensions- IDF warns civilians near Hezbollah sites- Arraba mayor attack triggers indictmentsThe time is now 3:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, Iran staged a World Cup departure rally in Tehran's Enqelab Square with thousands of fans, even as visa and entry questions linger amid the February US and Israeli air strikes on the Islamic Republic. The team will continue preparations at a training camp in Turkey next week, and the kit for the June 11 to July 19 tournament was unveiled as players spoke from a stage. FFIRI President Mehdi Taj told state television that the send-off was the best in four World Cup campaigns and that the players remain with the people and that Iran’s flag should be raised with dignity, regardless of the result. The participation has been in doubt since the strikes, with Taj’s own entry to Canada for FIFA Congress blocked over his link to the IRGC fueling fears about possible hurdles for some Iranian delegates entering the United States.In Regional Impacts, Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said safe, unimpeded maritime flows through international waters, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, are vital for global economic well-being. He also urged that unilateral coercive measures and sanctions inconsistent with international law and the UN Charter be addressed, speaking at a BRICS foreign ministers meeting in New Delhi. The BRICS bloc comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa and invited states, and the discussion highlighted regional and global economic stability amid ongoing tensions.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Israeli Defense Forces released an Arabic-language evacuation warning to residents of southern Lebanon, urging them to move at least 1,000 meters away from villages near Hezbollah infrastructure as operations continue. The message stressed that violations of the ceasefire compel the IDF to act against targets tied to Hezbollah, and it warned that anyone near Hezbollah fighters or equipment could face danger. The warning underscored the tense, ongoing dynamics between Israel and allied or adversary forces along the border.In US Policy Concerning Israel, the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors will meet again in Washington today under the auspices of the Trump administration, resuming discussions amid longstanding regional and security considerations.In Israeli Domestic Politics, police said they have solved the March attempted assassination of Arraba Mayor Ahmad Nassar, with prosecutors expected to file indictments against the shooter, a 26-year-old Arraba resident, and against the 56-year-old relative who allegedly sent him. The mayor was seriously wounded and Dr. Anwar Yassin, head of a local committee, was moderately wounded; authorities tie the case to municipal issues surrounding garbage disposal tenders and note the case has drawn civil-society concern about violence in Arab society. Separately, Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara asked the High Court to review new information related to Netanyahu’s pick for Mossad chief, stating the information appears to be something the candidate should have disclosed during the hearing. Also, Prime Minister Netanyahu, Finance Minister Smotrich, and Education Minister Kisch announced a plan to allocate 1.1 billion shekels for summer education programs, extending preschool through 9th grade, incorporating STEM, AI education, and emotional and social support to address the impact of Operation Roaring Lion, with full-month July coverage for kindergarten through third grade to aid families and child care.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, an editorial argues that Europe’s standards are not always applied evenly and cautions against equating Israel with Hamas, while acknowledging Israel must address rising Jewish extremist violence within its own borders. The piece contends that while European sanctions against violent West Bank settlers and Hamas figures reflect moral concerns, Israel’s historical and religious ties to the land are not crimes, and that the country must confront internal threats as a strategic-security and moral issue.In Uplifting News, the message is simple: Onwards and upwards! Onwards and upwards!Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896144https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/05/india-says-safe-unimpeded-maritime-flows-vital-global-economic-well-beinghttps://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1321247https://t.me/ILtoday/19077https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896141https://www.ynetnews.com/article/rjzha17yflhttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896130https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-896094https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76279

HEADLINESIran condemns Kuwait detaining IRGC at BubiyanArraba mayor attack solved relative chargedIsrael Lebanon ambassadors meet in DCThe time is now 2:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned Kuwait after authorities detained four IRGC operatives who were attempting to infiltrate Bubiyan Island earlier this month. He described the interception as an illegal attack on an Iranian vessel and called for the immediate release of the detainees.In US Policy Concerning Israel, the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors will meet again in Washington today under the auspices of the Trump administration.In Israeli Domestic Politics, police announced they had solved the March assassination attempt on Arraba Mayor Ahmad Nassar. A 26-year-old Arraba resident was charged in a prosecutor’s declaration, along with a 56-year-old relative who allegedly dispatched him. The mayor was shot seven times and seriously wounded, while Dr. Anwar Yassin, head of a local popular committee, was moderately wounded. Investigators tied the relative to the case and the prosecution is expected to file an indictment in the coming days. Civil society groups condemned the attack as a dangerous escalation in violence within Arab society. Separately, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and Education Minister Yoav Kisch announced a plan allocating 1.1 billion shekels for summer programs to address the academic and emotional toll of Operation Roaring Lion. The plan covers preschool through 9th grade and combines STEM, AI education, and emotional and social support, with July full-session days for kindergarten through 3rd grade to help with child care.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, an editorial argues that Israel must confront Jewish extremism while rejecting Europe’s double standards. It stresses that Europe’s sanctions on violent West Bank settlers alongside Hamas figures reflect a moral equivalence that Jerusalem says is misplaced. The piece also notes that Jewish historical and religious attachment to the land is not a crime, and that Europe or anyone else should not erase it with a sanctions list. It concludes that Israel must address internal Jewish extremism as a strategic-security and moral issue.In Uplifting News, the note simply says Onwards and upwards as a cheerful closing.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://t.me/selena_updates/63724https://t.me/ILtoday/19077https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896141https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896130https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-896094https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76279

HEADLINESIsrael funds 1.1B for summer schoolingHaredi draft exemption showdown threatens September electionsMetallica concert triggers Greece minor quakeThe time is now 1:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Operation Lion's Roar, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and Education Minister Yoav Kisch unveiled a national outline for the education system, allocating 1.1 billion shekels to summer programs this year, the Government Press Office confirmed. The plan, designed to address the academic and emotional toll of Operation Roaring Lion that led to widespread school closures, includes a mix of STEM, artificial intelligence education, and emotional and social support for students from preschool through ninth grade. The budget incorporates a supplementary 600 million shekels from the Finance Ministry to the existing summer programs budget. For kindergarten through third grade, summer school will run for the full month of July to help parents with child care; the summary notes additional details for fourth through sixth grades but does not provide them.In Israeli Domestic Politics, Shas warns Netanyahu: no coalition without Haredi draft exemption. Aryeh Deri has yet to speak publicly, but Shas’ party newspaper accuses the prime minister of breaking coalition promises as lawmakers move to dissolve the Knesset and set an election date. Separately, the coalition moved toward elections after ultra-Orthodox parties revolted over the government's failure to pass a draft exemption law for yeshiva students; the Degel HaTorah faction signaled it would push to bring down the government, scrambling to control the election process before the opposition could gain momentum. If a dissolution bill passes, Israelis could head to the polls as early as September, setting a volatile moment since the October 7 war.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Israel must confront Jewish extremism while rejecting Europe’s double standards. An editorial argues that Europe is not always fair to Israel, and while sanctions from the European Union against violent West Bank settlers and Hamas figures are debated, Israel still must acknowledge internal Jewish extremist violence in the West Bank as a strategic-security problem, a moral concern, and a Jewish issue. From Rutgers speaker to Kristof column, disputed dog rape claim against Israel goes mainstream. A canine training expert said it is highly unlikely that a dog could be trained to carry out sexual assault. The New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof cited the claim in a column alleging abuse of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli prisons; Israel rejects the allegations, Jewish groups condemn it as “modern-day blood libel” while some defend reporting, and The Times has stood behind the column as rigorous reporting.In Uplifting News, מטאליקה הרעידה את יוון! אירוע מטורף כזה לא רואים כל יום: כ-80 אלף מעריצים קפצו יחד בבת אחת במהלך הופעה של להקת מטאליקה ביוון. ההתלהבות של הקהל הייתה כל כך עוצמתית, עד שהמכון הסיסמולוגי המקומי זיהה תזוזות קרקע ממשיות ורשם רעידת אדמה קלה ברחבי המדינה. About 80,000 fans jumped together during a Metallica concert in Greece, so energetic that the local seismological institute detected real ground movements and logged a minor earthquake across the country.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896130https://www.ynetnews.com/article/rjqv7amyflhttps://worldisraelnews.com/political-earthquake-netanyahu-coalition-moves-toward-elections/https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-896094https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896135https://t.me/newssil/201584

HEADLINESKyiv Hit by Russian Missiles and DronesIsrael Allocates 1.1B for Summer ProgramsLondon Prepares Security for Nakba Day ProtestsThe time is now 12:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, a large Russian ballistic missile, cruise missile, and drone attack was launched earlier against Kyiv proper and other oblasts throughout the nation. The attack targeted Kyiv and other oblasts across the country.In Israeli Domestic Politics, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and Education Minister Yoav Kisch presented a comprehensive national outline for the education system on Wednesday, allocating NIS 1.1 billion to summer programs this year, the Government Press Office confirmed. The program is designed to address the academic and emotional toll of Operation Roaring Lion, which led to widespread school closures. The 1.1 billion total results from a supplementary allocation of 600 million NIS to the existing summer programs budget. The outline covers preschool through the 9th grade and combines STEM, AI education, and emotional and social support. Kindergarten through 3rd grade will have the full month of July for summer school to assist parents with childcare. For 4th to 6th grades, the plan includes additional summer programming.An editorial also in this topic argues that Europe applies double standards and urges Israel to confront Jewish extremism at home while rejecting Europe’s approach. The piece notes that while European actions like sanctions on violent West Bank settlers and Hamas figures are controversial, Israel must recognize internal issues with Jewish extremist violence in the West Bank as a strategic-security and moral problem, even as it defends the distinction between Israeli citizens and Hamas.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, From Rutgers speaker to Kristof column, disputed dog rape claim against Israel goes mainstream, a canine training expert told JTA it is highly unlikely that a dog could be trained to carry out sexual assault. The claim gained wider attention when Nicholas Kristof referenced it in a New York Times column alleging abuse of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli prisons, linking to pro-Palestinian sources and recounts from a Gaza journalist. Israel has rejected all of the allegations, and Jewish groups have denounced the claim as a modern-day blood libel, even as some say claims of abuse should be taken seriously. The Times has defended the column as rigorous reporting.UK police plan operation to prevent trouble at anti-Israel, anti-immigration protests, London authorities announced an unprecedented security operation this weekend to prevent violence during two large demonstrations in the capital. About 80,000 people are expected for an anti-Israel Nakba Day march and an anti-immigration rally organized by Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. The operation will involve around 4,000 officers, helicopters, and dog units, with armed police vehicles in reserve. London has recently seen a spate of antisemitic attacks, including the stabbing of two Jewish men last month in an incident treated as terror-related.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://t.me/DefenderDome/20743https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896130https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-896094https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896135https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896128

HEADLINES- US weighs Sledgehammer name for Iran war- Second missing US servicewoman found in Morocco- Chinese firms eye clandestine arms sales IranThe time is now 11:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In US Military Role, the Pentagon is weighing renaming its Iran war campaign to "Operation Sledgehammer" if the ceasefire collapses and President Trump decides to resume combat operations against Iran. A White House official told NBC that a new operation name would help distinguish renewed strikes from Operation Epic Fury, and other names are also under consideration. If a bombing campaign resumes, the US military presence in the region is larger now than when Epic Fury began in February, with officials saying the United States has more firepower and capability. The US Central Command continues to enforce a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, and renaming could allow the administration to argue that Sledgehammer is separate from Epic Fury, potentially avoiding the need for Congressional approval after 60 days of action.Remains of second missing US servicewoman found in Morocco, military says. Africa Command confirmed the soldier was Specialist Mariyah Collington, 19, an air and missile defense crewmember. Her remains were located May 12 at a rocky cliff site in Cap Draa after she had been missing since May 2 during the African Lion exercises near Tan Tan. The search involved US, Moroccan and partner forces using ground, air and maritime assets. The remains of another service member, 1st Lieutenant Kendrick Lamont Key Jr., were recovered from the Atlantic Ocean on Sunday. The disappearances occurred during off-duty time on a recreational hike while participating in the exercises, and search-and-rescue operations followed.In Regional Impacts, Chinese companies planning clandestine arms sales to Iran, US intelligence finds. The New York Times, citing US officials, reports that Chinese firms have been in communication with Iranian officials regarding arms sales and may move weapons through third countries to hide origins. It is unclear whether any weapons have shipped or whether Chinese officials approved such sales, and US officials briefing on the matter differ on those specifics. At least one suspected concealment route involved an African country. Iran has not used Chinese weapons against Israel or US forces since Operation Roaring Lion and Operation Epic Fury. US officials say they do not believe the Chinese government has formally approved finished weapons sales to Iran, though they note it would be unlikely the government did not know about the communications.Iran has again characterized the engagement between IRGC and Kuwaiti forces on Bubiyan Island yesterday in a different light, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claiming that the engagement was instead Kuwaiti targeting of Iranian civilians and demanding their release. He described the incident as an effort to sow discord.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Rand Paul’s son apologizes after reportedly making antisemitic attack on Representative Mike Lawler. William Paul apologized, saying he had too much to drink and is seeking help for his drinking problem. The incident, captured publicly Tuesday at a Washington, DC, bar, involved remarks about Israel and Jews; Lawler, who is not Jewish, is Irish, Italian and Catholic, according to accounts of the encounter. Paul's remarks and subsequent apology drew attention after he confronted Lawler and commented on topics including Israel and individuals connected with the issue of antisemitism.UK police plan operation to prevent trouble at anti-Israel, anti-immigration protests. London authorities described the planned policing as unprecedented, with Deputy Assistant Commissioner James Harman saying about 4,000 officers would be on duty, backed by helicopters, dog units and armed police reserves. The weekend routine includes two large protests — an anti-Israel Nakba Day march and the Unite the Kingdom rally led by Tommy Robinson — with FA Cup final events also in the city. Police stressed they would exercise the most assertive use of powers to forestall trouble, citing recent antisemitic attacks and a heightened terrorism threat level.In Uplifting News, Holocaust survivor Albrecht Weinberg, who moved back to Germany in his 80's, dies aged 101. Born in 1925 in Rhauderfehn, he passed away in Leer, not far from his birthplace. Weinberg survived Auschwitz, Mittelbau-Dora and Bergen-Belsen, and endured death marches near the war’s end. He returned to Germany 14 years ago after living in New York, and a film about his life, Es ist immer in meinem Kopf, premiered weeks earlier. Leaders and peers remembered him as a bridge between generations, and Israel’s Ambassador to Germany, Ron Prosor, offered a tribute acknowledging his enduring memory.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896121https://www.jpost.com/international/article-896124https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896119https://t.me/DefenderDome/20729https://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-896132https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896128https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-896120

HEADLINESPossible Renewed Strikes Prompt Operation Sledgehammer RenameRemains of Two US Soldiers RecoveredJudge Blocks Albanese Sanctions Over Free SpeechThe time is now 10:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In US Military Role, the Pentagon is weighing a rename of the Iran war campaign to “Operation Sledgehammer” if the ceasefire fails and President Trump orders renewed strikes. Officials told NBC News that a new operation name could distinguish any renewed campaign from Operation Epic Fury, which began on February 28. If a bombing campaign resumes, CENTCOM notes the US military footprint in the region is larger now and commanders say they have greater firepower and capability than in February. A White House official indicated that the rename is one option among several and could help frame the operation as separate from Epic Fury, potentially affecting Congressional considerations after the initial 60 days. Separately, AFRICOM confirmed the remains of Specialist Mariyah Collington, 19, an air and missile defense crewmember, were found in Cap Draa, Morocco, after she had been missing since May 2 during the African Lion exercises. The remains of another US soldier, 1st Lieutenant Kendrick Lamont Key Jr., were recovered from the Atlantic Ocean on Sunday. The two service members disappeared near Tan Tan, Morocco, following a fall from a cliff during off-duty time on a hike, with US, Moroccan, and partner forces conducting coordinated search-and-rescue operations.In Regional Impacts, Iran has again reframed the Bubiyan Island engagement, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi saying the incident reflected Kuwaiti targeting of Iranian civilians and demanding their release, calling the episode an effort to sow discord. In Washington, Lebanon and Israel are slated to hold new peace talks starting Thursday as their latest ceasefire, though frayed, nears its end. The truce has been extended through Sunday and followed a April 23 White House meeting where President Trump voiced optimism for a historic summit that ultimately did not take place; Lebanese President Michel Aoun said a security framework and an end to Israeli attacks are prerequisites for such a summit. Since the ceasefire began on April 17, Lebanese authorities say Israeli strikes have killed more than 400 people, and Israel has pledged to continue pressuring Hezbollah despite the pause in fighting.In US Policy Concerning Israel, a federal judge temporarily blocked US sanctions on UN Palestinian territories expert Francesca Albanese, saying the Trump administration likely violated her free-speech rights by sanctioning her. The measures barred her from entering the United States and banking there. Albanese, who has urged the ICC to pursue war-crimes prosecutions against Israeli and American nationals, has said the sanctions amount to debanking and interference with daily life for her family. US District Judge Richard Leon in Washington found that her residency outside the United States does not remove her First Amendment protections and that the sanctions appeared to target the “idea or message expressed.”In Uplifting News, Albrecht Weinberg, a Holocaust survivor who returned to Germany in his eighties, has died at 101. Born in 1925 in Rhauderfehn, he moved back to Germany fourteen years ago and recently saw a film about his life premiere; Leer’s mayor spoke of his tireless storytelling about the Nazi era to warn against forgetting. Separately, an elite US Air Force unit rescued 11 plane crash survivors off the coast of Florida after a pilot was forced to ditch the aircraft miles offshore near Melbourne, guiding everyone onto a life raft and to safety.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896121https://www.jpost.com/international/article-896124https://t.me/DefenderDome/20729https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/05/lebanon-israel-hold-new-talks-us-ceasefire-nears-endhttps://www.jpost.com/international/article-896122https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-896120https://t.me/JewishNews24/54338

HEADLINESUS weighs Sledgehammer op after ceasefire breaksKyiv under massive Russian assaultChina-linked firms plot Iran arms via intermediariesThe time is now 9:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In US Military Role, the Pentagon is weighing a new operation name, potentially Operation Sledgehammer, to be used if the ceasefire with Iran breaks down and the president orders renewed strikes. White House officials told NBC that any renewed combat operations would carry a different designation from Operation Epic Fury, and that the current US military footprint in the region is larger now, with more firepower and capability. CENTCOM continues to enforce a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz as part of the campaign. Renaming could allow the administration to argue that a Sledgehammer operation is distinct from Epic Fury and may influence how quickly Congress would be asked to authorize continued action after 60 days. In Morocco, the remains of Specialist Mariyah Collington, 19, an air and missile defense crewmember, were recovered in the Cap Draa area after disappearing during the African Lion exercises; the US Africa Command confirmed the identification. The remains of 1st Lieutenant Kendrick Lamont Key Jr. were recovered from the Atlantic Ocean last week. Search-and-rescue operations involved US, Moroccan and partner forces, following reports the soldiers fell from a cliff during a recreational hike. Separately, CENTCOM says one month into the Iran blockade, more than 15,000 troops, 200 aircraft and 20 warships are deployed in the region, with 67 commercial vessels redirected, 15 humanitarian ships allowed through, and four disabled to enforce compliance.In Regional Impacts, Kyiv came under a massive Russian attack early Thursday, with explosions heard across the city. Debris from falling drones struck the roof of an apartment building and scattered in a street, as the mayor and regional officials described ongoing strikes. Ukraine’s air force said missiles were targeting the capital, and the broader assault described as a large-scale ballistic missile, cruise missile, and drone attack is underway against Kyiv and other oblasts.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Chinese companies have been plotting clandestine arms sales to Iran, transporting weapons through intermediaries to conceal origins, according to a New York Times report citing US officials. The officials said Iran and Chinese companies have been in discussions about arms deals, though it is unclear if any weapons have shipped or been approved, and there is disagreement among officials on specifics. The report notes Iran has not used Chinese weapons against Israel or US forces since Operation Roaring Lion and Operation Epic Fury began; officials cautioned they do not believe Beijing has formally approved supplying finished weapons, but insiders say they are aware of the communications.In US Policy Concerning Israel, a federal judge in Washington temporarily blocked US sanctions on Francesca Albanese, the UN expert on the Palestinian territories, saying the Trump administration likely violated her First Amendment rights by sanctioning her. The sanctions barred her entry to the United States and banking access. Albanese has urged ICC war-crimes probes into Israeli and American nationals. The judge stressed that residency outside the United States does not remove her constitutional protections.In Israeli Domestic Politics, an IDF soldier was sentenced to 30 days in military prison after Chief of Staff Lieutenant-General Eyal Zamir caught him wearing a "Messiah" patch on his uniform. The soldier received the 30-day sentence; the platoon commander was given a suspended 14-day detention, the company commander was reprimanded, and the battalion commander received a formal mark. Some lawmakers criticized the punishment, arguing it was a grave and scandalous move given past statements by Zamir about patches.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Irish writer Graham Linehan condemned RTÉ’s decision not to air this year’s Eurovision Song Contest due to Israel’s participation, calling it disgraceful antisemitism and accusing the broadcaster of using Father Ted as a prop for antisemitic messaging. He launched a petition demanding the resignation of RTÉ’s director general. Separately, a Carteret, New Jersey, man pled guilty in federal court to intentionally damaging the Chabad-Lubavitch headquarters at 770 Eastern Parkway in Crown Heights by repeatedly ramming his car into the building during a memorial event earlier this year; prosecutors pursued a civil rights property-damage charge rather than a hate-crime count, with sentencing estimated at zero to six months.In Uplifting News, Israeli violinist Maya Maron won a multimillion-pound settlement after a faulty Pilates machine shattered her elbow and derailed her career, and she is now developing a robotic walking aid. Five hours after a Florida plane crash, 11 survivors floated on a life raft with limited means to call for help; they were later rescued by US military search-and-rescue crews overhead. A writer reported that his new book, The Next War, reached the New York Times best-sellers list, marking a notable milestone.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896121https://www.jpost.com/international/article-896124https://t.me/JewishNews24/54332https://t.me/JewishNews24/54329https://www.jpost.com/international/internationalrussia-ukraine-war/article-896129https://t.me/JewishNews24/54337https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896119https://www.jpost.com/international/article-896122https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896110https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896123https://t.me/JewishNews24/54335https://www.ynetnews.com/magazine/article/sy9zpj6abxhttps://t.me/JewishNews24/54334https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76275

HEADLINESPentagon Eyes Sledgehammer Rename If Ceasefire FailsIsrael Knesset Dissolution Bill Sparks Unity PushSailors' Remains Recovered Across Morocco and AtlanticThe time is now 8:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In US Military Role, the Pentagon is weighing a renaming of its Iran war campaign to "Operation Sledgehammer" if the ceasefire collapses and President Trump resumes active combat against Tehran. NBC News cited two US officials, and a White House official familiar with the discussions said a new operation name could help distinguish renewed strikes from Operation Epic Fury, with other names also under consideration. If Trump resumes bombing, the US military presence in the region is now larger than when Epic Fury began in late February, with officials noting more firepower and capability at hand. Renaming the operation could allow the administration to argue that Sledgehammer is a separate campaign from Epic Fury, potentially affecting the need for Congressional approval after 60 days of action, even as CENTCOM continues to enforce the Strait of Hormuz blockade.In Regional Impacts, Washington is hoping to press China to play a more active role in curbing Iran’s actions in the Gulf, with Foreign Secretary Marco Rubio saying in a Fox News interview that the United States wants Beijing to help push Tehran to stop its activities. In a separate note, a report quotes a Gazan saying, "We are the ones who launched this war, and we will be the ones to end it. Until the last drop of our blood, we keep offering, and sacrificing until all of us die, for the sake of Allah." The Iran war has also unsettled Turkey’s peace process with Kurdish militants; Turkish officials and PKK representatives have pulled back from bold moves toward resolution, with Ankara warning of possible Kurdish mobilizations in Iran and Iraq and resisting reforms such as amnesty for former PKK fighters, while the PKK demands disarmament first and has not given the jailed PKK leader an official role in talks.In Israeli Domestic Politics, an IDF soldier was sentenced to 30 days in military prison after Chief of Staff Lieutenant-General Eyal Zamir caught him wearing a "Messiah" patch on his uniform. The tour of the West Bank during which the incident occurred preceded disciplinary actions: the platoon commander received a suspended 14-day detention, the company commander was reprimanded, and the battalion commander received a formal mark. Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee chair Boaz Bismuth criticized the punishment, calling it grave and scandalous.In Israeli Domestic Politics, opposition leaders reacted to a bill to dissolve the Knesset. Yair Lapid said, "We are ready. Together," while Blue and White leader Benny Gantz called the move "the beginning of the end of the worst government in Israeli history" and urged a broad Zionist unity government. Yair Golan shared a clip implying readiness for battle, and coalition whip Ofir Katz framed the dissolution bill as a way to control the process; opponents warned the proposal could add legal complexity to the dissolution process.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Irish writer Graham Linehan accused RTÉ of "disgraceful antisemitism" over not airing this year’s Eurovision final because Israel is participating, while RTÉ plans to air an episode of Father Ted instead. Linehan criticized the broadcaster and called for the resignation of RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst, arguing the decision weaponizes Father Ted in an antisemitic gesture. Separately, at Sarah Lawrence College, Jewish students faced fierce pushback as they sought to form a campus chapter of J Street U; the Student Senate rejected the application, marking the first time a J Street U campus chapter has been turned down, even as the group notes roughly two dozen such chapters exist nationwide.In Uplifting News, the search for missing service members in Africa Lion operations yielded a recovery in Morocco. Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces announced that the remains of Specialist Mariyah Collington, 19, an air and missile defense crewmember, were found May 12 at a rocky cliff site near Cap Draa, with AFRICOM corroborating the identification. Collington had been missing since May 2 during the exercises. In a separate development, the remains of another US service member, 1st Lieutenant Kendrick Lamont Key Jr., were recovered from the Atlantic Ocean on Sunday. Both sailors were missing after an off-duty incident during the exercise, and coordinated search-and-rescue efforts involving US and partner forces had been continuing with ground, air, and maritime assets.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896121https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1321174https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76274https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896114https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896110https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896117https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896123https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-896115https://www.jpost.com/international/article-896124

HEADLINESChina-Iran Arms Talks Fuel Nuclear FearsGazans Vow to Wage War, Regional TurmoilKnesset Dissolution Bill Triggers OppositionThe time is now 7:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Iranian Retaliation, Trump’s China visit is marred by reports of Chinese weapons talks with Iran. China had discussed transferring weapons to Iran through third countries, the New York Times reports in the middle of the US president's historic visit; at the same time, Tehran's threat level toward Washington is rising, with officials signaling that Iran may enrich uranium to 90%.In Regional Impacts, Gazans say they will not shrink from the conflict, declaring, “We are the ones who launched this war, and we will be the ones to end it. Until the last drop of our blood, we keep offering, and sacrificing until all of us die, for the sake of Allah.” Separately, Turkey’s Kurdish peace process stalls as the Iran war deepens regional instability, with Ankara and PKK figures hesitant to move forward, warnings of new Kurdish mobilizations in Iran and Iraq, and a reluctance to enact reforms or grant an amnesty for former fighters before the PKK’s disarmament demand is met.In US Policy Concerning Israel, a federal judge in Washington temporarily blocked US sanctions against Francesca Albanese, the UN special rapporteur on the Palestinian territories, finding that the Trump administration likely violated her free-speech rights by sanctioning her after she criticized Israel. The sanctions would have barred her entry to the United States and banking access; Albanese’s husband and daughter have sued, arguing the measures debanked her and hindered daily life. The judge stressed that residency outside the United States does not remove First Amendment protections, and that the sanctions appear connected to the idea or message she expressed. In a separate development, the US Senate again rejected Democrats’ proposal to block President Trump from taking military action against Iran.In Israeli Domestic Politics, a soldier was sentenced to 30 days in military prison after the IDF Chief of Staff, Lieutenant-General Eyal Zamir, observed him wearing a “Messiah” patch during a West Bank visit; the platoon commander received a 14-day suspended detention, the company commander was reprimanded, and the battalion commander earned a formal mark on record. Some lawmakers criticized the punishment as grave and scandalous. Opposition leaders reacted to a bill to dissolve the Knesset, with Benny Gantz calling it “the beginning of the end of the worst government in the history of Israel,” while Yair Lapid signaled readiness to act and urged unity. President Herzog opened a conference dubbed Time to Talk to repair social cohesion and encourage dialogue as part of his shared Israeli future initiative.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Irish writer Graham Linehan condemned RTÉ over its decision not to air this year’s Eurovision due to Israel’s participation, calling the move “disgraceful antisemitism” and accusing the broadcaster of turning Father Ted into an antisemitic dogwhistle; he also petitioned for the resignation of RTÉ’s director-general. At Sarah Lawrence College, student senators rejected establishing a J Street U chapter, marking the first such rejection at a campus, amid debate over whether recognizing the group equates to endorsing certain pro-Israel stances and related controversy.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.ynetnews.com/article/sjdd7vg1mghttps://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76274https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896114https://www.jpost.com/international/article-896122https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/05/federal-judge-blocks-us-sanctions-against-un-expert-palestinian-territorieshttps://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76272https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896110https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896117https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896112https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896123https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-896115

HEADLINESCeasefire Nears as Israel-Lebanon Talks OpenTurkey Kurdish Peace Falters; Iran War DeepensIsrael Divided as Dissolution Bill LoomsThe time is now 6:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, Turkey’s Kurdish peace process falters as the Iran war deepens regional instability, with Ankara and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party visibly avoiding bold steps toward a resolution, and Turkey warning of the risk of new Kurdish mobilizations in Iran and Iraq while reportedly quashing a short‑lived United States–Israel idea to back a Kurdish ground invasion of Iran from Iraq. At the same time, the United Arab Emirates denies that Benjamin Netanyahu visited the country in secret during the war against Iran, even though the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office confirmed the visit in an official statement.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the third round of talks between Israel and Lebanon will open in Washington on Thursday with military representatives taking part for the first time. Lebanon’s delegation will include the military attaché in Washington as well as former ambassador Simon Karam and current ambassador Nada Hamadeh Mouawad. The Israeli side will be led by Israel’s Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter and will include the Israel Defense Forces Head of Strategy Brigadier General Amichai Levin and the acting Israeli military attaché in Washington. Representing the United States will be United States Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, Michael Needham, and Michael Issa. The discussions are meant to discuss a framework for a deeper agreement as a three‑week ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon nears expiration, with the Trump administration pressing Lebanon to take steps toward a durable accord.In Israeli Domestic Politics, an Israel Defense Forces soldier was sentenced to 30 days in military prison after the Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, caught him wearing a “Messiah” patch on his uniform during a West Bank visit, with the platoon commander receiving a suspended 14‑day detention, the company commander being reprimanded, and the battalion commander receiving a formal mark on his record; a Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee member criticized the punishment as grave and scandalous, noting Zamir’s past remarks about patches. Opposition leaders reacted to a bill to dissolve the Knesset, with Benny Gantz declaring it the beginning of the end of the worst government in Israeli history and calling for a broad Zionist unity government, while Yair Lapid tweeted that “We are ready. Together.” and Yair Golan posted a symbolic GIF as part of the discourse on the coalition crisis and the dissolution process. President Isaac Herzog opened a national conference in Jerusalem dedicated to repairing Israeli society, warning that division is the country’s most urgent internal threat and urging mutual recognition, mutual respect, dialogue, and a shared tomorrow as part of a broad effort to move the country forward ahead of Israel’s 80th anniversary.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, at Sarah Lawrence College, student senators rejected an effort to establish a campus chapter of J Street U, the campus arm of the liberal pro‑Israel group, after fierce backlash from some student voices who compared recognizing the group to endorsing a white supremacist organization; the rejection marks the first time a J Street U chapter has been turned down at a campus, despite nationwide growth of such chapters since October 7.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896114https://t.me/selena_updates/63719https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896111https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896110https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896117https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896112https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-896115

HEADLINESTurkey PKK talks stall amid Iran warIsrael Lebanon talks third round generalsEarly elections loom as Knesset dissolution advancesThe time is now 5:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, Turkey’s Kurdish peace process falters as Iran war complicates negotiations. Just two weeks after Turkey's parliament made recommendations on how to advance the country's peace process with Kurdish militants, the Iran war broke out, plunging the Middle East into fresh instability and bringing new doubts on both sides. Ankara has warned of the risk of new Kurdish mobilizations in Iran and Iraq and, according to a government official, helped quash a short-lived US-Israeli idea to back a Kurdish ground invasion of Iran from Iraq. Since then, Ankara and the Kurdistan Workers' Party have dug in to watch the fallout of the war, each refusing to move next and stalling efforts to end the four-decade conflict. The government appears reluctant to enact legislative reforms, including a potential amnesty for former PKK fighters, and to give the group's jailed leader an official role in the peace process. Ankara says the PKK must fully disarm first. The World Food Programme said on Wednesday it had halved emergency food assistance in Syria due to funding shortages, warning that millions remained vulnerable despite signs of stabilization in parts of the country. The United States, the WFP’s biggest donor, has slashed its foreign aid, and other countries have also reduced development and humanitarian assistance. The WFP said that the number of people receiving emergency food aid in Syria fell to 650,000 in May from 1.3 million, while operations in all 14 governorates were scaled back to seven. In total, 7.2 million people in Syria remain acutely food insecure, including 1.6 million facing severe hunger. The reduction in aid is described by WFP’s Syria country director Marianne Ward as driven by funding constraints, not a decrease in needs, and the program also halted a bread subsidy that had supported more than 300 bakeries with fortified wheat flour, affecting access to subsidized bread.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Third round of Israel-Lebanon talks to take place with military officials, sources tell 'Post'. The third round of talks between Israel and Lebanon will open in Washington on Thursday, and for the first time, military representatives will participate. The talks will be held at the State Department, coming just before the expiration of the three-week ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon announced by the Trump administration. The Lebanese delegation will be led by former ambassador to the United States Simon Karam, with current ambassador Nada Hamadeh Mouawad and Lebanon’s military attaché in Washington also taking part. The Israeli delegation will be led by Israel’s Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter, and will include a representative from the National Security Council, Brigadier-General Amichai Levin of the IDF, and the acting Israeli military attaché in Washington. An Israeli official told The Jerusalem Post that the talks aim to discuss a framework for an agreement in greater depth. Representing the American side will be US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, Michael Needham, an adviser to Marco Rubio, and US Ambassador to Lebanon Michael Issa. The Trump administration is pressing Lebanon to take a significant step toward a broader agreement as these discussions proceed.In Israeli Domestic Politics, Coalition submits bill to dissolve Knesset, vote expected next week. Coalition whip Ofir Katz submitted a bill to dissolve the Knesset with the full backing of coalition faction leaders, after the opposition brought a similar bill amid the crisis in Prime Minister Netanyahu’s coalition over the haredi draft bill. The proposal would have the election date set during discussions in the Knesset House Committee, and the bill to dissolve is expected to be brought for a vote next week on Wednesday. The move could lead to early elections before October, as the haredi faction Degel Hatorah pressed to dissolve over disagreements on the draft bill. The opposition had also proposed dispersing the Knesset. Former prime minister Naftali Bennett praised the possibility, calling it the only good thing this government has done for the people, and said Likud has become the executive arm of the government. Herzog warns Israel’s greatest internal threat is growing division at ‘Time to Talk’ conference. A national conference dedicated to repairing Israeli society opened in Jerusalem, as President Isaac Herzog warned that division had become the country’s most urgent internal threat. He described the initiative as a movement to promote mutual recognition, mutual respect, dialogue, listening, and a shared Israeli tomorrow, part of Herzog’s broader effort to rebuild trust, strengthen social cohesion, and shift discourse from crisis toward repair ahead of Israel’s 80th anniversary. The conference, titled Time to Talk | Building Together, is part of the President’s Initiatives for a Shared Israeli Future and seeks to encourage dialogue among institutions, civil society groups, and social leaders to foster a more united civic fabric.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Sarah Lawrence student senate rejects J Street U chapter after fierce backlash. Jewish students at Sarah Lawrence College say they faced fierce resistance after attempting to establish a campus chapter of J Street U, the college arm of the liberal pro-Israel group. When the students applied to the student government to formalize the club, the decision was met with strong opposition, and the final vote rejected the J Street U application, marking the first time a campus chapter has been turned down. Supporters pointed to concerns about campus political dynamics, while opponents compared recognizing the group to approving a white supremacist organization.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Jewish Republican Paul Singer tarred with rainbow Star of David in Kentucky candidate’s anti-LGBTQ ad. A political ad tied to Kentucky’s GOP congressional primary portrays Paul Singer, a Jewish donor to Republican causes, with a rainbow Star of David overlaid on a Pride flag alongside imagery of drag queens and Pride symbols. The spot portrays Singer as a prominent pro-LGBT activist allied with far-left Democrats, and notes Hold the Line PAC as the funder. Singer is described as Jewish, with a son who is gay, a detail cited by critics who say the ad perpetuates antisemitic stereotypes about Jewish influence over LGBTQ advocacy.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896114https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896106https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896111https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896113https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896112https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-896115https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-896108

HEADLINESHistoric UAE Meeting Signals New Israel TiesWFP Slashes Syria Aid, 7.2m At RiskHezbollah Drones Kill Soldiers as IDF StrikesThe time is now 4:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Operation Lion's Roar, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu traveled to the United Arab Emirates to meet President Mohammed bin Zayed at the start of Operation Roaring Lion, the Prime Minister's Office announced. It marked the first publicly announced meeting between the two leaders since the Abraham Accords in 2020, described by the PMO as a historic breakthrough in Israel-UAE relations. During the operation, Mossad chief David Barnea and Shin Bet chief David Zini visited the UAE to coordinate on war-related matters. US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee said Israel had sent UAE Iron Dome batteries to help defend against Iranian attacks, signaling ongoing cooperation. Reports also note the UAE’s role in recent strikes on Iranian assets, including an April attack on Lavan Island’s refinery, according to The Wall Street Journal.In Regional Impacts, the World Food Programme said it has halved emergency food assistance in Syria due to funding shortages, reducing the number of people served to about 650,000 in May from 1.3 million and trimming operations in all 14 Syrian governorates to seven. The agency warned that 7.2 million people remain acutely food insecure, including 1.6 million facing severe hunger, and it halted a bread subsidy program that supported more than 300 bakeries with fortified flour. The United States, once the biggest donor, has cut foreign aid along with other countries, intensifying a broader funding crisis. Separately, after meeting Prime Minister Netanyahu, Nickolay Mladenov, director-general of the Board of Peace, said seven months into Gaza’s ceasefire the door to Gaza’s future remains closed, not delivering what Palestinians were promised or what Israel needs for security, noting daily violations and ongoing humanitarian access challenges. In Syria, Palestinians face questions of belonging under new governance, with online attacks and state-linked platforms targeting Palestinian individuals, highlighted by debates over identity and concerns about legal status for Palestinian refugees.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the Israeli military downplays the Hezbollah drone campaign as a tactical challenge rather than a strategic threat, even as drones from Lebanon have caused casualties since the ceasefire took effect on April 17. Three soldiers and one civilian have been killed by exploding drones, but officers from Givati’s Sabar Battalion emphasize that the threat is real and being countered with ongoing measures, while some voices at home suggest the danger is being exaggerated. Separately, authorities report significant activity in the campaign, with IDF footage noting that more than 400 Hezbollah terrorists have been eliminated and over 1,000 weapons linked to Hezbollah have been located since the operation began.In Israeli Domestic Politics, coalition whip Ofir Katz submitted a bill to dissolve the Knesset with the backing of coalition faction leaders, setting the stage for a potential early election vote next week in the Knesset House Committee as the crisis over the haredi draft bill deepens. The move could lead to elections before October, with Degel Hatorah pressing for dissolution amid disagreements over the draft. At a separate campaign event in Tel Aviv, former prime minister Naftali Bennett, alongside opposition leader Yair Lapid, urged dissolving the Knesset and outlined plans for a future government to enshrine a constitution, reform the education system, draft haredim into the IDF, and rebuild after the October 7 attacks. The Together party, now led by Bennett and Lapid, has framed itself as the alternative bloc to Netanyahu’s Likud ahead of elections no later than October, and thousands attended the event as Bennett received standing ovations.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, non-Jewish activists in Durban wore shirts identifying with the anti-Israel Jewish group Jews for Free Palestine during a protest in front of the Durban Holocaust and Genocide Centre. The absence of a local SAJFP chapter in Durban led SAPM to say solidarity with a global call for a Free Palestine, while the South African Jewish Board of Deputies criticized the incident as political theater, arguing that fringe Jewish voices are being used to provide cover for campaigns targeting Jewish spaces. The Board noted the irony of improvising in the absence of local Jewish participants and urged vigilance against campaigns that obscure real issues affecting Jewish communities.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896096https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896106https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896085https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896098https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896103https://t.me/JewishNews24/54320https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896113https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896107https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896104

HEADLINESHistoric Israel UAE talks amid Roaring LionWFP halves Syria emergency food aidGaza ceasefire still closed after seven monthsThe time is now 3:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Operation Lion's Roar, Netanyahu met with UAE president at start of Operation Roaring Lion, PMO announces. The Prime Minister's Office described the talks with President Mohammed bin Zayed as a historic breakthrough in Israel‑UAE relations, and noted this was the first publicly disclosed meeting since the Abraham Accords in 2020. Officials say coordination on the war involved Mossad chief David Barnea and Shin Bet chief David Zini during visits to the UAE. US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee said Israel had supplied UAE with Iron Dome batteries to defend against Iranian attacks, reflecting deeper security cooperation. Reporting also ties the UAE to recent strikes on Iranian assets, including an attack on Lavan Island’s refinery reported by sources familiar with regional developments. The PMO later confirmed Netanyahu’s secret UAE visit with Shin Bet Chief Zini during the operation, describing it as another historic step in the evolving ties between the two countries.In Regional Impacts, the World Food Programme said it has halved emergency food assistance in Syria due to funding shortages, warning that millions remain vulnerable despite signs of stabilization in parts of the country. The number of people receiving emergency food aid in Syria fell to 650,000 in May from 1.3 million, as operations across all 14 governorates were cut back to seven. Overall, 7.2 million people in Syria remain acutely food insecure, including 1.6 million facing severe hunger, with many households reducing meal portions or skipping meals. The reduction is described by the WFP as driven solely by funding constraints, not a drop in needs. The United States, the agency’s biggest donor, has slashed foreign aid, with other countries also tightening development and humanitarian assistance. The WFP halted a bread subsidy program that had supported more than 300 bakeries with fortified flour, a move the agency says will affect access to subsidized food staples. Marianne Ward, the WFP’s Syria country director, stressed that the needs in Syria remain substantial despite any stabilization.Seven months after the ceasefire, the door to Gaza’s future is still closed, BoP chief said after meeting Netanyahu. Nickolay Mladenov, director-general of the Board of Peace, said that what was promised to the Palestinians is not what they deserve and that the ceasefire, while holding, is far from perfect, with daily violations that endanger civilians. He noted that delays and restrictions continue to affect humanitarian access and daily life for Palestinians. Mladenov urged the political leadership currently managing Gaza to step aside as called for by the Security Council decision and the 20‑point plan, arguing there is room in a new framework that respects civilian protections and the rule of law.Who gets to belong? Palestinians in Syria confront old suspicions under new rule examines how Palestinian refugees face a changing environment in Syria. Palestinian‑Syrian journalist Qusai Amameh’s reporting on Damascus’ Mount Qasioun redevelopment drew backlash focused on his Palestinian identity rather than his journalism. Critics linked to Syria’s Information Ministry attacked him in online forums, highlighting a broader struggle over belonging and status for Palestinians in Syria, where online discourse has grown more hostile as political debate shifts to digital spaces. Activists and advocates warn that identity politics and online hostility threaten the safety and visibility of Palestinians in Syrian society.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the threat is manageable: IDF downplays Hezbollah drone campaign. Military officials describe the drone activity from Lebanon as a tactical problem rather than a strategic challenge, with solutions being developed. Three soldiers and one civilian have been killed by exploding drones since the Lebanon ceasefire took effect on April 17. Officers from Givati’s Sabar Battalion showed reporters a tunnel dug beneath a clothing store in al-Khiam, containing a command and communications hub and a cache of weapons, illustrating that the threat persists. The deputy commander, identified as L, cautioned that while the threat is real, it should not be viewed as war‑changing, and a measured approach is being pursued to counter it.Heritage Minister taps Esther Shreiber for next IAA director, first woman in role. Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu announced Esther Shreiber, CEO of the INEXTG Group, as the next director of the Israel Antiquities Authority, a post that would make her the first woman to hold the role. Her appointment will be submitted for approval by the IAA’s council and the government. The selection followed a committee process chaired by Itai Granek, with members including Joshua Shwartz, Batsheva Moshe, Moshiko Erez, and Avi Solomon. Shreiber holds a BA in the History of the Jewish People from the Hebrew University and an MA with honors in Public Administration and Policy from the University of Haifa, and is a Stern Prize recipient for studies of the Second Temple period. In a Ynet interview, archaeologist Aharon Meir offered commentary on the candidate.S. African non-Jewish activists protest at Holocaust center with ‘Jews for Free Palestine' shirts. In Durban, non-Jewish protesters wore shirts affiliated with the anti‑Israel Jewish group at the Durban Holocaust and Genocide Centre, while members of the South African Palestine Movement dressed in SAJFP‑identified apparel to show solidarity with a broader call for a Free Palestine. The South African Jewish Board of Deputies criticized the incident as crossing from anti‑Israel activism into political theater and noted that fringe voices are often used to provide cover for campaigns targeting Jewish spaces. The episode underscores tensions around Jewish spaces and the use of identity in political protests.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896096https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76269https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896106https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896085https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896098https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896103https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896075https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896104

HEADLINES- Netanyahu UAE Meeting Launches Roaring Lion Operation- Saudi Strikes Iraq as Gulf Crisis Worsens- Rothman Pushes Split AG Bill Amid DissolutionThe time is now 2:02 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Operation Lion's Roar, Netanyahu met with UAE president at start of Operation Roaring Lion, PMO announces. Netanayhu traveled to the United Arab Emirates to meet President Mohammed bin Zayed at the outset of Operation Roaring Lion, the Prime Minister's Office said. It was the first publicly announced meeting between the two since the Abraham Accords in 2020, and the PMO described the encounter as a historic breakthrough in Israel-UAE relations. During the operation, Mossad chief David Barnea and Shin Bet chief David Zini reportedly visited the UAE to coordinate on war efforts. The United States ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, said Israel had sent Iron Dome batteries to the UAE to defend against Iranian attacks. The UAE has also been linked to recent strikes on Iranian assets, including the Lavan Island refinery in early April.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Saudi airstrikes targeted militias in Iraq during war with Iran. Saudi fighter jets bombed targets linked to Tehran-backed Shi’ite militias in Iraq, with retaliatory strikes launched from Kuwait into Iraq, part of a broader pattern of military responses around the Gulf since joint Israeli-US strikes on Iran on February 28. Those attacks have triggered Iranian strikes on Gulf states and Israel and affected global energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz. The strikes targeted sites near the kingdom’s northern border with Iraq, according to Iraqi security and military officials and Western officials. Some actions occurred around the time of the April 7 US-Iran ceasefire, targeting sites from which drone and missile attacks were launched. IDF preparing plan to return to Gaza fighting, depending on Iran ceasefire deal. Southern Command chief Major-General Yaniv Asor presented a plan to Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir for a return to fighting in Gaza, with options for continued operations and evacuation measures. The plan, developed by the Southern Command in collaboration with the Air Force, Intelligence Directorate, and Operations Directorate, includes a phased approach for various scenarios. The timing and scope of any resumption of fighting would hinge on developments with Iran, with a last-minute agreement with the Ayatollahs’ regime potentially bringing Israel closer to resuming actions against Hamas in Gaza, while a renewal of fighting with Iran or in Lebanon against Hezbollah could delay such moves. Security sources say the chances of Iran reaching a nuclear deal are unlikely, complicating regional calculations.In Israeli Domestic Politics, MK Simcha Rothman rushes bill to split A-G position as Knesset dissolution looms - report. Coalition members are pushing bills quickly ahead of a possible dissolution of the Knesset, with Constitution, Law and Justice Committee chairman MK Simcha Rothman accelerating discussion on a bill to split the attorney-general’s role into three posts, weakening political influence. Rothman plans an initial vote in the Knesset next week. On Tuesday, Rabbi Dov Lando, the spiritual leader of the haredi Degel Hatorah faction, gave a green light to work toward dissolving the Knesset as soon as possible over the haredi conscription bill, a move that could lead to early elections around October. Opposition parties Yesh Atid, Yisrael Beytenu, the Democrats, and Ra’am said they would support bringing a bill to disperse the Knesset to a plenum in the near term. Jerusalem Day lacks ritual meaning and how to fix a neglected holiday - opinion. An opinion piece argues Jerusalem Day is the most minimalist holiday and lacks a defining ritual, suggesting a broader set of observances to unify Jews at home and abroad. It urges Israelis to visit Jerusalem’s key historic sites, including the David Citadel Museum, the City of David, and the Western Wall tunnels, and proposes abroad audiences create “JerusAlbums” to celebrate their visits. Jerusalem Day commemorates the city’s reunification in 1967, but the piece emphasizes expanding rituals to capture a deeper communal meaning. Netanyahu held secret meeting with Emirati president in the UAE during Iran war, PM's office says. Reuters reports that Netanyahu visited the United Arab Emirates and met with the Emirati president during the war with Iran, with the PMO stating the meeting produced an historic breakthrough in Israel-UAE relations. The visit marks a rare public confirmation of high-level contact since the Abraham Accords. Herzog urges negotiations toward plea deal in Netanyahu criminal trial. President Isaac Herzog urges dialogue toward an agreed resolution in Netanyahu’s criminal case, stating that internal crises should, where possible, be handled through negotiation rather than rupture. Herzog’s legal team invited Netanyahu’s defense attorneys and the prosecution to preliminary talks to test whether an arrangement can be reached, underscoring a preference for settlement over confrontation.In Berlin Holocaust memorial vandalized in latest antisemitic vandalism incident, the Deportation Monument on the Putlitz Bridge in Berlin was defaced with graffiti on Tuesday evening. Berlin Police confirmed the vandalism at the memorial for Jews deported from Moabit, and the Department for Research and Information on Antisemitism Berlin (RIAS Berlin) described such acts as targeted antisemitic property damage that disrupt remembrance of the Shoah. The monument has endured repeated vandalism since its creation, including white paint and parcel tape in August, a memorial wreath thrown in November 2024, and prior bomb damage in 1992 that was repaired.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896096https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896093https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896068https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896079https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-895896https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/05/netanyahu-held-secret-meeting-emirati-president-uae-during-iran-war-pms-officehttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896077https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896078

HEADLINESIsrael Plans Gaza Return to CombatTwo Million Barrels Cross HormuzAttorney General Split Into Three RolesThe time is now 1:02 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, a plan by Israel's Southern Command to resume fighting in Gaza was presented to Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir. The plan envisions a return to combat with options for continued operations in the Gaza Strip, including evacuation measures and the relocation of civilians to new humanitarian zones. It was developed by the Southern Command in collaboration with the Air Force, the Intelligence Directorate, and the Operations Directorate, and it includes a phased approach for different scenarios. Security sources say that whether any renewed fighting would begin largely depends on developments with Iran, and that a last-minute agreement with the Iranian regime could bring the IDF closer to resuming operations against Hamas, while renewed fighting with Iran or in Lebanon against Hezbollah could push timing to an unknown date. Officials note that chances of a nuclear deal with Iran remain slim to none. Separately, the Strait of Hormuz saw a Chinese Very Large Crude Carrier carrying roughly two million barrels of Iraqi crude cross the strait after a lengthy delay, marking another passage amid ongoing US-Iran tensions. The vessel is now anchored off the Gulf of Oman near the blockade area, and its voyage comes as Iran tightens control over the waterway and signs oil and LNG deals with Iraq and Pakistan; the ship is operated by COSCO Shipping Energy Transportation.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Saudi fighter jets bombed targets linked to Iran-backed Shiite militias in Iraq, with retaliatory strikes from Kuwait into Iraq as part of a broader Gulf pattern surrounding the widening conflict. The strikes occurred in the context of tensions following joint Israeli-US strikes on Iran on February 28 and have coincided with Iranian retaliatory actions on Gulf states and Israel, actions that have unsettled the global economy and disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Some of the strikes appeared to align with the period around the April 7 US-Iran ceasefire, targeting sites associated with drone and missile operations.In Israeli Domestic Politics, coalition ministers are rushing to push through legislation ahead of a potential dissolution of the Knesset. Constitution, Law and Justice Committee chair MK Simcha Rothman, of the Religious Zionist Party, is accelerating the bill to split the attorney-general’s role into three positions, a move aimed at weakening the AG’s political influence, with an initial Knesset vote planned for next week. Earlier, Rabbi Dov Lando, head of Degel Hatorah, signaled support for dissolving the Knesset “as soon as possible” over the haredi conscription bill, a move that could trigger early elections. Opposition parties Yesh Atid, Yisrael Beytenu, the Democrats, and Ra’am said they supported bringing the dissolution bill to a plenum. Separately, President Isaac Herzog urged negotiations toward a possible arrangement or plea deal in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s criminal trial, saying dialogue could help prevent further internal rupture and that both sides should enter talks if possible. A separate analysis notes Naftali Bennett’s ongoing effort to position himself for a broad bid, describing his public rally and visit to the Western Wall as part of a strategy built around political vehicles—Bayit Yehudi, then Yamina, and now a new merger with Lapid—aimed at reshaping Israel’s political landscape with a reform agenda.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Berlin’s Deportation Monument on the Putlitz Bridge was vandalized again, with police reporting graffiti tags on the memorial dedicated to Jews deported to concentration and death camps. Berlin’s RIAS Berlin described such acts as targeted antisemitic property damage that disrupts remembrance efforts. The monument has faced repeated vandalism since its creation, including incidents in August, and reports of a wreath being thrown and candles destroyed in November 2024. The Center for Jewish Art notes that the memorial was damaged by a bomb in the past, underscoring a history of attacks on memorial sites.In Israeli Economy and Business, Wizz Air announced it will resume flights to Israel on May 28, joining the Lufthansa Group in restoring service to Ben Gurion Airport after Europe’s aviation safety agency eased its guidance regarding flights to the region.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896068https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896072https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896093https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896079https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896077https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896076https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896078https://t.me/JewishNews24/54308

HEADLINESYuan Hua Hu passes Hormuz amid blockadeIsrael fears Trump Iran deal pitfallsKnesset dissolution nears over conscription billThe time is now 12:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, a Chinese Very Large Crude Carrier named Yuan Hua Hu sailed through the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, carrying about two million barrels of Iraqi crude after being stranded in the Gulf for more than two months due to the US-Iran war. The vessel is now anchored off the Gulf of Oman near a US naval blockade on Iranian vessels. The crossing comes as President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping are set to meet over the next two days, and after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi visited Beijing last week. The voyage marks the third known passage by a Chinese oil tanker through the Strait of Hormuz since the start of the US-Israel war with Iran on February 28, according to ship-tracking data. Iran has tightened control over the strait, cutting deals with Iraq and Pakistan to ship oil and LNG from the region, with other countries exploring similar arrangements that could entrench Tehran's influence over the waterway.In US Policy Concerning Israel, Israeli officials told CNN they fear President Donald Trump may reach a "bad deal" with Iran, potentially with last-minute concessions if he grows tired of talks. While the United States and Israel are aligned on preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, issues such as ballistic missiles and regional proxies appear not to be central in early drafts, with one source saying these matters are probably off the table. Officials warned that a partial deal could lift economic pressure and give the Iranian regime a chance to stabilize, complicating Israel's security concerns. The two allies continue to coordinate their actions as diplomacy unfolds.In Israeli Domestic Politics, coalition members are pushing bills before the Knesset dissolves. Constitution, Law and Justice Committee chair MK Simcha Rothman has accelerated discussion on a bill to split the attorney-general role into three positions, with an initial vote expected next week. Dov Lando, the spiritual leader of the haredi Degel Hatorah faction, gave a green light to dissolving the Knesset as soon as possible over the haredi conscription bill, a move that could trigger early elections next October, with opposition parties Yesh Atid, Yisrael Beytenu, the Democrats, and Ra'am in favor of dispersing the Knesset. An analysis piece argues Bennett has built political vehicles rather than lasting establishments, with his new merger with Lapid described as a vehicle to win elections and pursue broader change. President Isaac Herzog urged negotiations for an agreed resolution in Netanyahu's criminal trial, calling for dialogue and possible talks intended to test a plea arrangement to reduce deep divisions in Israeli society.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, rumors have circulated this week that Kanye West may perform in Israel after apologizing for past antisemitic remarks, a report has suggested. Skepticism and backlash within the Israeli music industry have been voiced, with doubts about whether the plan will materialize. West last performed in Israel in 2015 and visited the country that year with his then-wife, Kim Kardashian. He has made antisemitic statements in recent years, including remarks in 2022 and a 2025 music video containing extremist imagery. Berlin’s Deportation Monument on the Putlitz Bridge, a Holocaust memorial for Jews deported to concentration camps, was vandalized on Tuesday evening, the latest in a series of antisemitic acts in the German capital. The memorial has faced repeated vandalism since its creation, including white paint and parcel tape in August, with earlier incidents in November 2024 and a history that includes a 1992 bombing repaired the following year; a stele at the Berlin memorial was found covered in green graffiti as well, part of a broader pattern of antisemitic vandalism in the city.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896072https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896066https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896079https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896077https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896076https://www.jpost.com/international/article-896080https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-896078

HEADLINESIDF plans Gaza return tied to IranSumud flotilla resumes voyage to GazaChina tanker crosses Hormuz amid tensionsThe time is now 11:02 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, an plan from the Southern Command to return to fighting in Gaza was presented to Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir. Major-General Yaniv Asor outlined options for resuming operations in the Gaza Strip, alongside evacuation measures and relocation of civilians to new humanitarian zones. The plan, developed with the Air Force, the Intelligence Directorate, and the Operations Directorate, includes a phased approach for different scenarios. Officials say the collapse of the current ceasefire and any renewal of fighting largely hinge on developments with Iran; a last-minute agreement with the Ayatollah regime could bring the IDF closer to resuming fighting against Hamas in Gaza, while a renewal of fighting with Iran or in Lebanon against Hezbollah could push such action to an unknown date. Security sources say the chances of Iran reaching a nuclear agreement are slim.In Regional Impacts, the Global Sumud Flotilla announced it will resume its journey to Gaza from Marmaris, Turkey on Thursday after Israeli forces intercepted the activist fleet near Crete and detained key organizers. Saif Abu Keshek, a Steering Committee member, told reporters that the flotilla, comprising 54 vessels and more than 500 activists, would depart Marmaris. Abu Keshek, detained last week and deported on Sunday, said they sail one day before Nakba to honor the occasion. Abu Keshek was released Sunday; Thiago Avila, another Steering Committee member, was deported to São Paulo and did not plan to join the Thursday departure. The group was among 175 activists on 20 vessels stopped near Crete on April 29, with most passengers deposited in Greece. Separately, the Chinese Very Large Crude Carrier Yuan Hua Hu crossed the Strait of Hormuz carrying about two million barrels of Iraqi crude, after a delay tied to US-Iran tensions. The vessel is now anchored off the Gulf of Oman near the US blockade. The crossing marks the third known passage by a Chinese tanker through Hormuz since the current US-Israel conflict with Iran began, and Iran has moved to tighten control over the strait by pursuing oil and LNG deals with Iraq and Pakistan, with other countries pursuing similar arrangements that could expand Tehran’s influence in the waterway.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the Jerusalem Post’s roundup by Shifra Jacobs carries the headline Hezbollah plans to occupy Beirut, US ships may be in danger. The item highlights tensions involving Hezbollah, as reported by the Post, and frames them within ongoing regional risk to naval operations. The roundup format indicates continued coverage of the broader tension between Iran, its allies, and regional actors.In US Policy Concerning Israel, CNN reports that Israeli officials are concerned a potential Trump-Iran deal could come with unwanted concessions. The primary worry is that Trump might grow tired of talks and strike any deal, including last-minute concessions. While Israel and the United States share an aim to prevent Iran from attaining a nuclear weapon, some issues such as ballistic missiles and regional proxies appear not to be on the table in early drafts. Officials note that a partial deal could allow Iran to stabilize economically and politically, complicating the broader containment effort. “Our hand is on the pulse,” one senior official told CNN. The United States and Israel continue to coordinate actions against Iran as negotiations proceed.In Israeli Domestic Politics, a commentary on Naftali Bennett describes his approach as built on political vehicles. The piece recalls Bennett’s rally in Tel Aviv, his visit to the Kotel, and his declaration of aiming for major national reform—one constitution, one school system, one nation. It emphasizes that Bennett wears the kippah as a personal identifier rather than a political program and notes that every party he has led has served as a vehicle to win elections. The analysis portrays the ongoing effort to assemble a governing coalition through a new merger with Lapid and the challenge of maintaining broad support.Also in Israeli Domestic Politics, the IDF is testing counter-drone technologies ahead of a security meeting on the rising drone threat. The IDF, the Defense Ministry, and defense contractors are conducting a series of capability tests focused on fiber-optic and racer drones, with results to be presented to Defense Minister Israel Katz. Prime Minister Netanyahu is set to meet this evening with senior defense officials to discuss the drone threat. Head of the Intelligence Directorate, Major-General Shlomi Binder, has mobilized top talent from the intelligence community, including units within the Special Operations Division and Unit 81, to study threats in southern Lebanon and develop solutions for fiber-optic suicide drones.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896068https://www.jpost.com/international/article-896074https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896072https://www.jpost.com/podcast/jpost-headlines/article-896058https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896066https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896076https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896070https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-895893

HEADLINES- Israel Tests Fiber-Optic Drone Countermeasures- IDF Builds Litani Bridge Amid Proxies- Israel Fears Partial Trump Iran DealThe time is now 10:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, the IDF, the Defense Ministry and defense contractors are set to complete a series of capability tests on Wednesday to counter fiber-optic and racer drones, drawing on local and international sources to address the evolving threat. A security source said efforts are being pursued around the clock to develop solutions to be presented to Defense Minister Israel Katz. The move comes as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to meet this evening with senior defense officials to discuss the drone threat. Yesterday, an IDF spokesperson said a drone strike near the Lebanon border left a moderately injured soldier and a lightly injured reserve soldier, who were evacuated to hospital and whose families were notified. This is a developing story.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the IDF is building a bridge over the Litani River.In the US Policy Concerning Israel, Israel is concerned that US President Donald Trump may reach a deal with Iran that could involve last-minute concessions. Israeli officials told CNN that while there is alignment with Washington on preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, issues such as ballistic missiles and the country’s regional proxies appear not to be front and center in early diplomatic drafts. Analysts warned that a partial agreement could allow Iran to stabilize economically while leaving key capabilities intact, potentially limiting the effectiveness of any deal. The United States and Israel are continuing to coordinate their actions against Iran.In Israeli Domestic Politics, the High Court of Justice canceled Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi’s decision to remove retired judge Nechama Munitz as chairwoman of the search committee for the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation Council, ruling that the minister lacked a legal basis to end her term. The court said removal must be based on a factual basis showing the chair did not perform the role properly and only after consultation with the president of the Supreme Court. The decision addresses petitions over the prolonged failure to complete appointments to the council that oversees public broadcaster KAN. Separately, a group of 15 parliamentarians from around the world committed to recognizing Jerusalem’s sovereignty at a Knesset conference ahead of Jerusalem Day, an event attended by Speaker of the Knesset Amir Ohana, Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion and ambassadors from several nations. Ohana opened by describing Jerusalem as a symbol of coexistence and said work remains to advance its status within national institutions. In internal political analysis, Haredi parties may push for elections as Netanyahu loses leverage, with leaders signaling that trust in the prime minister is eroding and that the bloc’s cohesion is not guaranteed, complicating the path to a coalition deal. Another development saw a revised Oct. 7 inquiry bill drop wording calling for a “full, thorough, and independent investigation,” a change that bereaved families say amounts to whitewashing government failures; proponents argue the revision clarifies the bill’s purpose and ensures broad representation on the commission.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, nine members of CTeen France met US Ambassador Charles Kushner in Paris on May 4 to discuss life as Jewish teens in France’s secular public schools. The teens described hiding their Jewish identity, removing visible symbols, and waiting weekly to reconnect with Jewish peers, with one student noting that only his best friend knows he is Jewish. They spoke of years of antisemitism in classrooms and a rise in hostility since a recent incident, underscoring concerns about safety and inclusion for Jewish students in France.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896070https://t.me/hnaftali/23007https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-896066https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896069https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896067https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896062https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896048https://www.jpost.com/international/article-896059

HEADLINESIsrael UAE coordinate Iran war Lavan strikeNetanyahu Mozes Case 2000 cross-examination beginsSpotify outage blamed on pro-Iran hacker groupThe time is now 9:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Operation Lion's Roar, Mossad chief David Barnea visited the United Arab Emirates at least twice during Operation Roaring Lion to coordinate on war planning, with trips reported in March and April. Shin Bet chief David Zini is said to have visited the UAE as well, and the two countries coordinated on security matters during the conflict. The Wall Street Journal cited Arab officials and a well-placed source in reporting the visits, and noted that the UAE was behind several recent strikes against Iranian assets, including the attack on Lavan Island’s refinery in early April, carried out covertly in response to Iran targeting Emirati civilian and energy infrastructure. Iran answered with another wave of drones and missiles against the UAE and Kuwait, though attribution at the time remained unconfirmed. The relationship between Israel and the UAE has continued to deepen in the shadow of the Iran war, with United States Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee confirming that Israel had sent Iron Dome batteries to bolster defense amid regional threats.In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, former prime minister and former IDF chief Ehud Barak criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu for presenting what he called an unrealistic vision to the United States on Iran, arguing that military action could not simply topple the regime and warning that overconfidence risked Israel’s security. He stressed that Hezbollah remains a formidable force in Lebanon, Hamas continues to grow in Gaza, and Iran’s nuclear capabilities remain a serious threat, noting that none of Israel’s major strategic goals had been achieved. In the same topic, Netanyahu denied involvement in alleged 2009 efforts to broker understandings with Yediot Aharonot publisher Arnon Mozes, saying he did not participate in such discussions. The cross-examination in Case 2000 focused on claims that intermediaries close to Netanyahu discussed limiting the weekend edition of Israel Hayom in exchange for improved coverage in Yediot Aharonot, with Netanyahu facing fraud and breach-of-trust charges and Mozes facing related accusations. Former Netanyahu spokesman Nir Hefetz testified that he discussed with Netanyahu in 2009 the possibility of meeting Mozes and conveying that Netanyahu could influence or moderate the number of Israel Hayom copies distributed on weekends.In Regional Impacts, a pro-Iran hacker group claimed responsibility for a DDoS cyberattack on Spotify, calling it revenge for Khamenei’s killing. Downdetector reported users experiencing access issues on Tuesday evening around 8 p.m., and Spotify acknowledged disruptions while investigators looked into the matter. The Islamic Cyber Resistance in Iraq – 313 Team posted the claim on Telegram after the attack, and Israeli users were also targeted by threatening WhatsApp messages from business-looking accounts, according to the report. Separately, Iraq’s army leadership played down reports of a secret Israeli base, while Iraqi authorities say troops and Iranian-backed militias are now combing the desert for such a base. Iraq’s Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Abdul Amir Rashid Yar Allah, conducted field oversight of desert security near Al-Nukhayb in mid-March as part of broader efforts to secure remote areas, even as The Wall Street Journal had suggested the existence of a covert base in the region.In Israeli Domestic Politics, a revised version of the controversial bill to create a politically appointed investigative committee into government failures during the October 7 attacks dropped language calling for a “full, thorough, and independent investigation.” Bereaved families accused the government of attempting to whitewash failures, while committee legal adviser Gur Bligh questioned why those words were removed. Proponents argued the revision would make the purpose clearer and the process more concise, while pledging that representation across Israeli society would be ensured and the investigation would remain thorough and autonomous. Separately, a KAN 11 poll suggested a united Bennett-Lapid bloc could challenge Netanyahu’s Likud, with the Likud at 26 seats and the Bennett-Lapid collaboration at 25. The poll comes amid government friction over military service reform and the haredi enlistment bill, fueling ongoing debates about the coalition’s stability and strategy.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, King Charles delivered the King's Speech to Parliament, outlining the Starmer government’s agenda as it faces mounting calls for resignation over national issues. The monarch said the government would take urgent action to tackle antisemitism, strengthen national security laws, and continue support for Ukraine, while committing to defend energy, defense, and economic security for the long term. He urged the nation to uphold British values of decency, tolerance, and respect for difference, promising concrete steps to ensure all communities feel safe in a changing world.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896041https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896017https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896037https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896039https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896048https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-896044https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896019https://worldisraelnews.com/king-charles-vows-urgent-action-on-british-antisemitism/

HEADLINESBarnea Leads UAE Talks Amid War CoordinationPro-Iran Hackers Knock Spotify OfflineHamas Blocks Gaza Contractors for New CityThe time is now 8:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Operation Lion's Roar, Mossad chief David Barnea visited the UAE at least twice during Operation Roaring Lion to coordinate regarding the war, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday, citing Arab officials and a source familiar with the matter. Barnea reportedly flew to the UAE in March and April. According to KAN News, Shin Bet chief David Zini also visited the UAE, and the two countries were coordinated on security issues during the war. The report notes that the UAE carried out strikes against Iranian assets, including the attack on Lavan Island's refinery in early April, seen as covert action in response to Iran targeting Emirati civilian and energy infrastructure. Iran later launched another barrage of drones and missiles against the UAE and Kuwait in response to this attack, though attribution remained unconfirmed. Israel and the UAE have grown their partnership in the shadow of the Iran war, with United States Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee confirming that Israel sent Iron Dome batteries to the region.In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, former prime minister Ehud Barak criticized Netanyahu for presenting what he called an unrealistic vision to US President Donald Trump, arguing that such expectations were far from reality. He cited a meeting in which Netanyahu reportedly suggested that military action against Iran could lead to regime collapse, saying, “We will act, the regime will crack, there is an opportunity to eliminate the leadership, this will topple the regime.” Barak warned that Hezbollah remains formidable in Lebanon, Hamas continues to grow in Gaza, and Iran's nuclear capabilities remain a serious threat. “None of the major goals were achieved,” he said, and he questioned the credibility of Netanyahu's claims that Hezbollah had been “thrown back.”In Iranian Retaliation, a pro-Iran hacker group claimed responsibility for a DDoS cyberattack against Spotify on Tuesday, according to the McCrary Institute for Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Security. Downdetector reported users had trouble accessing Spotify on Wednesday evening around 8 p.m. Spotify acknowledged issues and said the app, support site, and Web Player were slow or not working properly. The Islamic Cyber Resistance in Iraq – 313 Team claimed responsibility on Telegram, saying they carried out a massive cyberattack targeting Spotify’s main servers, causing a major disruption and completely disabling the application. Also on Monday, Israelis received threatening WhatsApp messages via business accounts that appeared legitimate but were actually sent by hackers.In Regional Impacts, the UAE is deepening economic ties with Damascus and eyeing major investment in Syria's postwar reconstruction. A two-day forum in Damascus featured a large UAE delegation, led by Foreign Trade Minister Thani al-Zeyoudi, in talks with Syrian officials. Syria's President Ahmad al-Sharaa received the delegation at the People’s Palace, and the delegation included Omar al-Darei, chairman of the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Z. The UAE’s cautious approach contrasts with Turkey and Saudi Arabia’s more expansive engagement, reflecting concerns about political Islam and a wait-and-see posture. The talks come after Abu Dhabi’s earlier expectation that the Assad regime would reintegrate after 2020, a view that was tempered by the regime’s weaknesses in late 2024.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Hamas blocked Gazan contractors last week from reaching an area in Rafah designated for a new Palestinian city under the Trump administration’s peace plan. The contractors, who had come from across the Gaza Strip, were prevented from reaching the site by armed Hamas members, despite being sent there in coordination with the Israel Defense Forces and the Civil Military Coordination Center (CMCC).In Israeli Domestic Politics, a KAN 11 poll published Tuesday night shows a united Bennett-Lapid framework challenging Prime Minister Netanyahu's Likud, with Likud at 26 seats and Bennett’s Together Party, which has merged with Lapid, at 25. The poll also notes former IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot as a potential recruit. The figures come as a coalition faces tensions over extending military service and the haredi enlistment bill, a dispute that has unsettled coalition partners. In a separate development, Border Police authorities seized more than 10,000 cannabis plants in 18 greenhouses in southern Israel as part of a broader crackdown on illegal drug production; authorities destroyed the facilities and confiscated the plants and equipment. The Health Ministry recently published guidance that could alter medical cannabis prescribing, with a professional committee led by Dr. Gilad Bodenheimer weighing changes to balance broader access with safeguards. Finally, coalition leaders are preparing a bill to dissolve the Knesset as early as next week, a move aimed at shaping the legislative process and the terms of dissolution.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896041https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896017https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896037https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896043https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896039https://t.me/ILtoday/19073https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896019https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896003https://www.ynetnews.com/article/b1v11zymyme

HEADLINESMossad chief Barnea visits UAE amid warLebanon conflict escalates with Hezbollah strikesBennett-Lapid unity poll challenges NetanyahuThe time is now 7:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Operation Lion's Roar, Mossad chief David Barnea visited the UAE at least twice during Operation Roaring Lion to coordinate regarding the war, with reports noting trips in March and again in April. The UAE was described as carrying out strikes against Iranian assets, including an attack on the Lavan Island refinery in early April, in what was portrayed as a covert response to Iran targeting Emirati civilian and energy infrastructure. Iran then launched another volley of drones and missiles against the UAE and Kuwait in retaliation, though there was no official confirmation of who was behind that action at the time. Israel and the UAE have continued to deepen their partnership in the shadow of the Iran war, with a senior American official confirming that Iron Dome batteries were sent to the United Arab Emirates to help defend against Iranian attacks during a Tel Aviv University conference.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, a pro-Iran hacker group claimed responsibility for a DDoS attack against Spotify on Tuesday, saying the disruption was revenge for actions against Iran’s leadership. Users reported access issues around 8 p.m., and Spotify acknowledged investigations into the slowdown and service interruptions as the group Islamic Cyber Resistance in Iraq – 313 Team claimed responsibility on messaging channels. Separately, Iraq’s leadership is downplaying reports of a secret Israeli base in the desert while Iraqi forces and Iranian-backed militias continue to search the area; officials described efforts to secure the desert region southwest of Najaf and Karbala as part of broader security operations. On the Lebanon front, the Israeli Defense Forces issued evacuation warnings for residents of Kfar Hata, Arabsalim, and Deir Zahrani ahead of planned strikes against Hezbollah targets, urging people to move at least a kilometer away. The Israeli Air Force carried out strikes against a vehicle in Deir al-Balid in the Beqaa region and another elimination in Sidon, with authorities tallying multiple vehicle attacks in Lebanon today. An Arabic-language IDF warning also urged residents of Kfarkela, Aitaroun, Arab Salim, and Deir ez-Zahrani to evacuate immediately, as the army prepared to act against Hezbollah violations of the ceasefire. The conflict has also seen Hezbollah drones complicating the battlefield, even as Lebanon reports casualties near Beirut and Israel reports striking dozens of Hezbollah targets. Earlier, another elimination was recorded in Sidon, bringing today’s reported vehicle attacks to seven.In Israeli Domestic Politics, a KAN 11 poll published Tuesday night suggests a united Bennett-Lapid framework could challenge Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud, with Likud at 26 seats and Bennett’s Together Party at 25, followed by a potential entry by former IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot. The poll comes as tensions over the coalition’s handling of security issues persist, including challenges around advancing military service legislation without the haredi enlistment bill, a move viewed by ultra-Orthodox parties as a breach of coalition understandings and a potential trigger for government turmoil. Former prime minister and ex-IDF chief Ehud Barak offered a critical assessment of Netanyahu’s stated Iran policy, arguing that the former prime minister’s vision is far from reality and warning that Hezbollah, Hamas, and Iran’s nuclear threat remain pressing threats. On the domestic front, border police uncovered more than 10,000 cannabis plants in 18 greenhouses in southern Israel as part of a broad crackdown on illegal cannabis production and distribution, with authorities dismantling the facilities and destroying the crops. The Health Ministry has issued recommendations aimed at changing how medical cannabis is prescribed and used, and a professional committee led by Dr. Gilad Bodenheimer was formed in response to rising usage during the wartime period to ensure safe and responsible access.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, the Jerusalem Dispatch episode examines security concerns for British Jews amid rising anti-Israel sentiment, political polarization in the UK, and the challenges faced by Jewish authors. The discussion references heightened security around Jewish institutions following a terrorist attack in Golders Green and notes the sense of vulnerability within the community. The program also touches on the UK political climate, including the Green Party’s stance on Israel, and reports from New York of protests outside a synagogue, highlighting the pressures Jewish communities face abroad and the broader questions about safety and belonging in diaspora communities.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896041https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-896037https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-896039https://t.me/selena_updates/63694https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76247https://www.ynetnews.com/article/syzja6zjmlhttps://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76244https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896019https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-896017https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-896003https://www.jpost.com/podcast/jpost-podcast/article-896006

HEADLINESEU warns flights to Israel amid perilIran demands five terms before restart talksUS returns two ancient coins to IsraelThe time is now 6:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, Europe’s aviation regulator extended its warning advising European airlines to avoid flying to Israel until at least May 27, citing ongoing security concerns despite a current ceasefire between the United States and Iran. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency said European carriers should exercise caution and take potential risks into account when operating within the airspace of Israel. While the truce between the US and Iran is holding, the sustainability of the ceasefire remains uncertain in the longer term, with a possibility of rapid escalation. The regulator added that close monitoring and up-to-date risk assessments remain essential to ensure the safety of flights and said it would continue to closely monitor the situation to determine whether risks to European aircraft operators increase or decrease in the coming weeks. Since the outbreak of Operation Epic Fury in late February, nearly all foreign airlines have canceled flights to and from Israel.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Iran demands Israel halt operations against Hezbollah before nuclear talks resume. Iran has set five conditions for entering a new round of negotiations with the United States, saying they are the minimum guarantees needed to rebuild trust after the US-Israeli war. The five demands include an end to fighting on all fronts, particularly in Lebanon; the lifting of sanctions; the release of frozen Iranian assets; compensation for war damage; and recognition of Iranian sovereignty rights over the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran conveyed the position after receiving a 14-point US proposal that Tehran viewed as unilateral and designed to secure negotiating objectives Washington could not achieve militarily, according to Fars News Agency.In US Policy Concerning Israel, Trump heads to China, says no need for Xi's help on Iran war. US President Donald Trump headed to China for a high-stakes summit with President Xi Jinping, saying he did not expect Beijing’s help to end the war with Iran or ease Tehran’s grip on the Strait of Hormuz. “I don’t think we need any help with Iran. We’ll win it one way or the other,” he told reporters. More than a month after a tenuous ceasefire took effect, Washington and Tehran remain far apart on terms to end the war, with the United States calling for Tehran to scrap its nuclear program and lift its chokehold on the Strait, while Iran demands compensation for war damage, an end to the US blockade, and a halt to fighting on all fronts, including in Lebanon. Trump dismissed those positions as “garbage,” as Iran has appeared to firm up its control over the Strait of Hormuz.In Israeli Domestic Politics, the Diaspora Ministry criticized the New York Times for relying on a Hamas-linked group in its IDF sexual violence report. The paper’s columnist alleged sexual violence against Palestinians and cited Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor, a Geneva-based organization Israel links to Hamas.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, What is the future for Jews in the UK? Jerusalem Dispatch. The latest episode examines security concerns for British Jews, political polarization in the UK, and challenges faced by Jewish authors amid rising anti-Israel sentiment. Co-host Ruth Marks Eglash, returning from London, shared insights into a heightened sense of vulnerability among British Jews, tighter security around Jewish institutions, and a sense of alienation in the country. The discussion also touches on the Green Party’s stance on Israel and notes protests outside a synagogue in New York, reflecting broader tensions impacting Jewish communities.In Uplifting News, US returns two rare ancient coins to Israel following joint antiquities theft investigation. The two coins, one depicting the Temple’s seven-branched menorah and minted during the Hasmonean era in Jerusalem under a Hasmonean king, and the other the second of its kind ever found, minted in ancient Ashkelon, were repatriated in a ceremony in New York City. The return followed an operation by the Israel Antiquities Authority’s Theft Prevention Unit in cooperation with Homeland Security and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. The coins had been illicitly excavated and smuggled, placed for auction, and then recovered after an intelligence tip led to seizures and the eventual handover to Israel.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://worldisraelnews.com/eu-regulator-extends-israel-no-fly-warning-through-may-27/https://worldisraelnews.com/iran-demands-israel-halt-operations-against-hezbollah-before-nuclear-talks-resume/https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/05/trump-heads-china-says-no-need-xis-help-iran-warhttps://www.ynetnews.com/article/r1b5ht11ygehttps://www.jpost.com/podcast/jpost-podcast/article-896006https://www.jpost.com/archaeology/article-896001

HEADLINESIran Retains 70% Missiles, 90% Underground FacilitiesIsraeli Drone Strikes Vehicle Near Beirut AirportAI-Powered SMASH System Lands US ContractThe time is now 5:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, ships in the Hormuz region go dark as Iran’s missile sites remain active and Trump hesitates, with US intelligence saying Iran retains about 70% of its missile stockpile and 90% of underground facilities, challenging the claim that it was crushed.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, an Israeli unmanned aerial vehicle attacked a vehicle recently in the al-Saadiyat area about ten kilometers south of Beirut's airport.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, the AFL's Equality, Inclusion and Safety Advisory Committee is set to focus on LGBTQIA+, First Nations and culturally diverse players, leaving Jewish concerns largely unaddressed despite a Jewish player, Harry Sheezel, and rising antisemitism in Australia; one committee member, Alex Pearce, who defended Kneecap and criticized Israel, is on the panel, and the AFL has taken no reprimand to date.In Israeli Economy and Business, the Tel Aviv District Court approved a one-time allocation of about NIS 200,000 from the Ida Abush public endowment to purchase laptops and essential equipment for children from low-income families in northern Israel and conflict-line communities, with safeguards to ensure the endowment can continue to fulfill its public purposes; the funds will support remote learning needs of children affected by the security situation in the North. Israeli defense-tech company Smart Shooter has secured a $10.7 million contract with the US Army to supply its AI-powered SMASH fire control systems, a “one-shot, one-hit” technology designed as a counter-drone weapons system, with delivery expected in the third quarter of 2026 and the system using AI and computer vision to help soldiers lock onto and neutralize fast-moving aerial targets.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.ynetnews.com/article/rjz0r2w1mghttps://t.me/abualiexpress/122233https://www.israellycool.com/2026/05/13/afls-new-inclusion-committee-has-a-major-jewish-shaped-hole/https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895992https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895971

HEADLINES- IDF strikes Hezbollah vehicle in Lebanon- US returns two ancient coins to Israel- Smart Shooter clinches 10.7M US Army dealThe time is now 4:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the latest update.The IDF struck a Hezbollah vehicle on Al-Jiyyeh road, southern Lebanon.In US Policy Concerning Israel, two ancient coins were returned to Israel this week.Two rare and ancient coins allegedly smuggled from Israel were returned to the country by the United States earlier this week, the Israel Antiquities Authority revealed on Wednesday. The coins were formally repatriated during a handover ceremony in New York City on Monday following an international operation conducted by the IAA Theft Prevention Unit in cooperation with Homeland Security and the Antiquities Trafficking Unit at the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. After being illegally excavated and smuggled from Israel, the two coins were brought to the US and recently put up for auction. Intelligence led to the seizure of the coins at the auction house and their return to Israel. One coin depicts the Temple’s seven-branched menorah and was minted during the Hasmonean period in Jerusalem under the last Hasmonean king; the other, the second of its kind ever found, was minted in ancient Ashkelon.In Israeli Domestic Politics, the latest developments.The Tel Aviv District Court approved a one-time allocation of about NIS 200,000 from the Ida Abush public endowment to purchase laptops and essential equipment for children from low-income families in northern Israel and conflict-line communities, the Justice Ministry’s Corporations Authority announced this week. The request was submitted by the endowment’s trustee and the Registrar of Endowments after they formulated a plan allowing urgent emergency assistance while preserving the endowment’s original public purposes. Under the court-approved framework, the funds will be directed toward remote learning needs of children affected by the security situation in the North. The court found that the proposed use had a substantive connection to the endowment’s goals and allowed a flexible interpretation of those goals under emergency circumstances. The allocation will be limited, targeted, and one-time only, with safeguards to ensure the endowment can continue to fulfill its purposes in the future. The distribution will be carried out through the endowment’s designated channels. Separately, a survey finds that one in four Israeli middle schoolers do not feel fully safe at school; about a third report more violence over the past year, 53% say schools fail to properly handle incidents, and one in ten say they were victims, heightening concern amid recent attacks.In Israeli Economy and Business, a new contract milestone.Israeli defense-tech developer Smart Shooter has secured a $10.7 million contract with the US Army to supply its AI-powered SMASH fire control systems, the company announced. The deal will provide American soldiers with advanced one-shot, one-hit technology designed as a counter-drone weapons system. The contract comes as part of broader efforts to defend frontline troops against small, low-cost drones, with Smart Shooter noting that AI and computer vision enable infantry to lock onto and neutralize fast-moving aerial targets. Deliveries are expected in the third quarter of 2026. This latest contract builds on a $13.4 million contract signed in May 2025 between Smart Shooter and the US Army with the DoD's JIATF-40 task force.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76238https://www.jpost.com/archaeology/article-896001https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895992https://www.ynetnews.com/article/syrztqbygghttps://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895971

HEADLINES- IDF strikes Hezbollah vehicle, two killed- AI-powered SMASH wins US Army contract- Endowment grants NIS 200k for northern learnersThe time is now 3:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, early this hour the IDF conducted a strike on a Hezbollah vehicle on the Al-Jiyyeh road in southern Lebanon, about 20 kilometers south of Beirut's airport. Lebanese sources say two people were killed; the vehicle was carrying goods bound for southern Lebanon.In Israeli Domestic Politics, the Tel Aviv District Court approved a one-time allocation of about NIS 200,000 from the Ida Abush public endowment to purchase laptops and essential equipment for children from low-income families in northern Israel and conflict-line communities. The request, submitted by the endowment's trustee and the Registrar of Endowments, allows urgent emergency assistance while preserving the endowment's public purposes. The funds will be directed to remote learning needs of children affected by the security situation in the North, under a framework that includes safeguards to ensure the endowment can fulfill its purposes in the future.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, an Israeli woman who ordered Yoga pants from a company in America received a note reading “Free palestine, Hamas will win, death to the IDF.”In Israeli Economy and Business, Israeli defense-tech developer Smart Shooter has secured a $10.7 million contract with the US Army to supply its AI-powered SMASH fire control systems, a counter-drone solution. The deal will provide American soldiers with a “one-shot, one-hit” capability to lock onto and neutralize fast-moving aerial targets, using AI and computer vision. SMASH systems are expected to be delivered in the third quarter of 2026. Smart Shooter's CEO, Michal Mor, said that as drone threats evolve, armed forces require proven, field-ready systems that can be rapidly deployed at the tactical edge. The contract builds on a $13.4 million contract signed in May 2025 with the US Army's JIATF-40.In Uplifting News, ten thousand shekels have been raised to fund posters bearing the faces and details of those identified as responsible for burning a 15-year-old dog that died after a period of immense suffering. Separately, during a basketball game of Maccabi Tel Aviv, a man proposed marriage and the woman said yes.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://t.me/abualiexpress/122222https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76238https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895992https://t.me/selena_updates/63672https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895971https://t.me/newssil/201516https://t.me/newssil/201515

HEADLINESUAE hits Iran oil facilities fires blazeUS B1 bombers train for Iran clashBeit Jbeil satellite shows vanished homesThe time is now 2:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Iranian Retaliation, The Wall Street Journal reported that the United Arab Emirates carried out a covert strike on Iran, hitting oil facilities on Lavan Island in early April, roughly as President Trump announced a ceasefire. The attack sparked a large fire and shut the refinery for months. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks against the UAE.In US Military Role, Two OSINT sources reported that American B1-B strategic bombers conducted training sorties over the Middle East in recent hours as part of preparations for the possibility of renewed hostilities with Iran.In Regional Impacts, Police said a man was shot dead in northern Israel, and the shooting appeared criminal in nature; the killing brings the number of homicide victims in Israel’s Arab community this year to 104. Russia said it shot down 286 drones Ukraine launched overnight. Ebrahim Rezaei, spokesperson for the Parliament’s National Security Committee, said: “We will under no circumstances allow the Strait of Hormuz to return to its pre-war status. Iran is not seeking to permanently close the Strait of Hormuz, but rather for the Strait of Hormuz to be under Iranian control and to benefit Iran. Parliament is about to approve a legal framework for the Strait of Hormuz that all entities will be required to implement.”In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Beit Jbeil satellite imagery shows homes that once stood have disappeared from the ground.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, A Nazi-looted painting titled Portrait of a Young Girl, by Dutch artist Toon Kelder, has resurfaced in the home of descendants of Hendrik Seyffardt, a Dutch SS collaborator. The painting belonged to Jewish art collector Jacques Goudstikker before it was seized when the Nazis invaded the Netherlands. It had hung in the hallway of Seyffardt’s granddaughter’s home for years. An unnamed relative acknowledged the painting had been stolen but asked not to tell anyone, and an art detective described the case as exceptionally unusual. The relative said she does not intend to sell the work.In Israeli Economy and Business, Arkia will add weekly flights to Ho Chi Minh City, expanding its Vietnam operations. The new route, starting in October 2026, will join Arkia’s Hanoi service launched earlier this year. Arkia CEO Oz Berlowitz called the expansion a right move following the Hanoi route’s success and said it will broaden long-haul operations and deepen Israel’s ties with the East. The schedule plans weekly departures from Tel Aviv on Thursdays and from Ho Chi Minh City on Saturday nights.In Uplifting News, Neta, the wife of Ilan Vais HY"D, writes about her husband a family man, educator, active reservist, tour guide, and loving father and grandfather. Two years ago, on the Hebrew date 9 Sivan 5784, Ilan fell in combat in the northern Gaza Strip while protecting others. Since his death, life has changed for the family, and they are establishing Merhav Eilon, a living space to be built near the Gaza envelope close to the site where Ilan fell. The project aims to open hearts, connect people, and provide space for pain, hope, healing, joy, and renewal; it will host communities, reservists, the injured, bereaved families, study days, cross‑community dialogue, listening sessions, and bridge-building, reminding that after the rupture, it is possible to build together and continue Ilan’s path.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://t.me/abualiexpress/122216https://t.me/abualiexpress/122215https://www.ynetnews.com/article/ry0j115w1zehttps://t.me/newssil/201513https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76236https://t.me/newssil/201512https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-895981https://www.jpost.com/travel/article-895980https://t.me/abualiexpress/122221

HEADLINESTrump Makes Iran Nuke Blockade Top PriorityNazi Looted Painting Resurfaces in Dutch DescendantIsrael Advances to Eurovision Final Amid BoosThe time is now 1:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In US Policy Concerning Israel, President Donald Trump said stopping Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon is his top priority, telling reporters that Americans’ financial struggles do not factor into his approach to ending the Iran war. “Not even a little bit” about the economy, he said, adding that the only thing that matters is that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. White House aides stressed that the president’s ultimate responsibility is safety and security. Trump is also set to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping as tensions over Iran, trade, and Taiwan loom, with aims to secure trade deals, press China to open up to US firms, and seek support for a three-way nuclear arms pact with Russia. In Tehran, Iran has laid out five trust-building conditions for the United States to enter a second round of negotiations to end the war, describing them as minimum guarantees: ending the war on all fronts, especially Lebanon; lifting sanctions; releasing frozen Iranian assets; compensating for war damage; and recognizing Iran’s sovereignty rights over the Strait of Hormuz. The report also notes Iran informed Pakistani mediators that the continuation of the US naval blockade in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman after the ceasefire has reinforced Tehran’s distrust toward negotiations, with the conditions framed as prerequisites for returning to talks under a renewed framework.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, a Nazi-looted painting has resurfaced in the home of descendants of a Dutch SS collaborator. Portrait of a Young Girl by Toon Kelder, once in the collection of Jewish art collector Jacques Goudstikker, hung for years in the hallway of Hendrik Seyffardt’s granddaughter’s home after being taken when the Nazis invaded the Netherlands. Art detective Arthur Brand called the case the most bizarre of his career, and the relator who found it expressed shame and urged restitution of the looted work. In another reflection on Jewish life and memory, Abraham Foxman’s funeral paid tribute to a leading Holocaust-era voice and longtime ADL leader. Foxman, who died at 86, spent decades steering the Anti-Defamation League and shaped Jewish advocacy at the highest levels of government and faith communities. Mourners at Park Avenue included reflections on how his generation’s Holocaust experiences informed contemporary leadership and moral authority. A separate note from Pennsylvania highlights antisemitism within party politics: Judge David Wecht, a Jewish member of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, left the Democratic Party to register as an independent, arguing that antisemitism has moved from the fringe to the mainstream. He cited troubling incidents and rhetoric and urged action against Jew-hatred, recalling his own history with antisemitism and the Pittsburgh Tree of Life shooting as a turning point.In Israeli Economy and Business, Arkia announced a new long-haul expansion with flights to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). The weekly service, starting in October 2026, will complement Arkia’s Hanoi route launched earlier this year, with departures from Tel Aviv on Thursdays and from Ho Chi Minh City on Saturday nights. Arkia’s leadership described the move as part of a broader plan to extend long-haul operations and deepen ties with the East, while executives stressed strong demand from Israeli travelers for Vietnam and the opportunity to offer a more convenient, flexible itinerary by combining Hanoi and Saigon to access the country’s wider travel network.In Uplifting News, Israel advances to the Eurovision final despite boos. Israel’s Noam Bettan moved on after performing “Michelle” in Vienna, where anti-Israel chants rose in the arena. Bettan said he heard the jeers but drew strength from pro-Israel supporters in the crowd, and during the Hebrew portion he felt he was singing to Israel. The song, performed in Hebrew, French, and English, was co-written by last year’s Israeli Eurovision star Yuval Raphael, who joined Bettan for a duet during the official presentation. The contest has been marked by controversy over Israel’s participation, including boycott calls and protests as the competition moves forward.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/international/article-895979https://www.ynetnews.com/article/hywrjkbymehttps://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76232https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-895981https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-895978https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-895977https://www.jpost.com/travel/article-895980https://worldisraelnews.com/against-the-boos-israel-advances-to-eurovision-final/

HEADLINES- Iranian air assets shielded in Pakistan- Sudan war births trauma for rape survivors- Netanyahu Mossad pick sparks security clashThe time is now 12:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, images from Karachi airport reveal for the first time that Iran moved some planes to Pakistan to avoid destruction by Israel during the 12-day war in June. The report says several of Iran's Air Force assets are being kept safe inside Pakistan, including a KC-707 ELINT aircraft and two Boeing 747 transport aircraft.In Regional Impacts, the region’s human stories illuminate the cost of conflict. Nesma, a 26-year-old university graduate in Sudan’s capital Khartoum, describes the trauma of war and the birth of her son, Yasser, among thousands of children born to rape survivors during three years of fighting between the army and the Rapid Support Forces. She fled Khartoum but returned to retrieve birth, graduation and death certificates to move forward, recalling the three attackers who violated her as RSF fighters allegedly carried out systematic sexual violence. Separately, satellite imagery has confirmed that Pakistan is sheltering Iranian Air Force C-130s.In US Policy Concerning Israel, President Donald Trump says stopping Iran’s nuclear program outweighs Americans’ economic pain. He told reporters that Americans’ financial struggles are not a factor as he presses toward ending what he calls the Iran war, asserting, “The only thing that matters, when I’m talking about Iran, they can’t have a nuclear weapon.” He also said he does not think about Americans’ financial situation or anybody else, emphasizing the goal of preventing a nuclear-armed Iran. White House aides said the president’s ultimate responsibility is the safety and security of the United States.In Israeli Domestic Politics, the fight over Netanyahu’s Mossad appointment is heating up. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s choice of Major-General Roman Gofman as the next Mossad chief has sparked a clash inside Israel’s legal and security establishment, with critics warning the move could politicize the country’s intelligence apparatus. Outgoing Mossad chief David Barnea publicly opposed the appointment, reportedly over concerns tied to a past scandal involving a teenage operative who was abandoned by military handlers. Critics say the trend toward loyalists in key security posts could erode independence, even as High Court justices signaled they are unlikely to intervene given the prime minister’s broad authority. In a separate matter, police say two suspects were seriously and moderately wounded after an officer opened fire to neutralize a threat in what authorities said is an ongoing investigation into an alleged Hadera firebomb plot.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, a trio of items highlights ongoing concerns. A looted painting resurfaced in the home of descendants of a Dutch SS collaborator: Portrait of a Young Girl by Toon Kelder, once part of Jewish art collector Jacques Goudstikker’s collection, was found hanging in a hallway in the granddaughter’s home, prompting remarks from art detective Arthur Brand about the case’s unusual trajectory. At Abraham Foxman’s funeral, mourners paid tribute to the longtime ADL leader whose life spanned the Holocaust’s shadow and the fight against antisemitism, with presidents, pope would-be allies and world leaders offering reflections on his influence. In Pennsylvania, Judge David Wecht, who is Jewish, left the Democratic Party and registered as independent, saying antisemitism has moved from the fringe to the mainstream and urging action to confront Jew-hatred on all sides, citing past incidents including a deadly attack on a Pittsburgh synagogue.In Israeli Economy and Business, Arkia is expanding its long-haul footprint with a new route to Ho Chi Minh City. The company announced weekly flights to Saigon beginning in October 2026, joining its Hanoi service launched earlier this year. Arkia’s leadership frames the Saigon addition as part of a broader strategy to grow long-haul operations and deepen ties with the Far East, with the new schedule facilitating more flexible travel between Israel and Vietnam.In Uplifting News, Magen David Adom unveiled a dedicated mental health emergency response unit. In partnership with the Health Ministry, the program is rolling out after a successful pilot, with plans for phased expansion in coming years. The new unit will route mental health-related calls to specially trained dispatchers and embed mental health professionals into emergency responses, a move officials say will improve care in complex, emotionally charged situations.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76228https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/05/not-my-sons-fault-women-bearing-children-sudans-war-rapeshttps://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76227https://www.jpost.com/international/article-895979https://worldisraelnews.com/inside-the-secret-battle-over-netanyahus-mossad-appointment/https://www.ynetnews.com/article/skx11xv111zehttps://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-895981https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-895978https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-895977https://www.jpost.com/travel/article-895980https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/mind-and-spirit/article-895976

HEADLINESIran warplanes hidden in Pakistan amid conflictIran regains majority missile sites along HormuzSouth Korea weighs phased Hormuz mission roleThe time is now 11:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, images from Karachi airport reveal for the first time that Iran flew some planes to Pakistan in order to avoid destruction by Israel during the 12-day war back in June. Some of Iran's Air Force assets are still being kept safe inside Pakistan, including a KC-707 ELINT aircraft and two Boeing 747 transport aircraft.In Iranian Retaliation, the United States believes Iran has regained access to a majority of its missile launch sites, according to a New York Times report. The NYT cites senior US officials who warn that Iran's active missile sites include 30 along the Strait of Hormuz, posing a threat to US naval ships in the area. The report says Iran can still use the missile stockpiles in non-operational sites by launching them with mobile launchers, with the country maintaining roughly 70% of its mobile launcher inventory. It also notes that about 90% of Iranian underground missile facilities are at least partially operational. The NYT report adds that Iran's current missile stockpile stands at around 70% of its prewar level. The Wall Street Journal, in a separate report, said Iran still retains thousands of short- and medium-range missiles and retains the ability to reactivate their launchers, citing a US intelligence assessment. The report followed remarks by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that Iran's arsenal has been “depleted and decimated.”In US Military Role, a US Air Force T-38C "Talon II" jet trainer aircraft crashed in rural Lamar County, Alabama, while on a training flight out of Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi earlier today. Both crew members safely ejected from the aircraft, and the incident is under investigation.In Regional Impacts, South Korea is weighing a phased role in a Hormuz mission after talks with the United States, with defense minister Ahn Gyu-back signaling support steps short of full military participation. He told reporters in Washington that Seoul would participate as a responsible member of the international community and would review ways to contribute in a phased manner, potentially including political support, personnel, information-sharing, and the provision of military assets, while stressing that no detailed discussions had taken place on expanding troop involvement. Any decisions would follow domestic legal procedures, and the minister said there was no deep discussion on expanding military participation. The meeting between South Korea’s defense chief and US defense secretary occurred a day after Seoul emphasized its position to the US.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Ambassador Danon welcomed the Dominican Republic’s decision to designate Hezbollah and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as terrorist organizations.In Israeli Domestic Politics, Brigadier-General (Reserve) Dedi Simchi announced this week that he has decided to enter the political arena to influence from within. In a conversation with Ben Caspit and Yinon Magal on 103FM, he said, “All options are relevant,” as he explained he is examining possibilities and may form a party, stressing that it’s no longer possible to sit on the sidelines. He described himself as a unifying bloc and said he is talking to everyone, though he noted there has not been a final decision on joining any particular party.In Uplifting News, Magen David Adom announced the establishment of a new dedicated mental health emergency response unit in partnership with Israel’s Health Ministry, launched after a successful pilot. The system will transfer mental health-related calls to specially trained mental health dispatchers for evaluation, rather than standard medical teams, and a phased rollout is planned to accelerate in the coming years. MDA’s Dr. Raphael Strugo said mental health emergencies are among the most complex and emotionally charged situations responders face, and embedding mental health professionals into emergency response aims to deliver higher quality care. Also in uplifting news, Albrecht Weinberg, who survived several Nazi concentration and death camps and lost most of his family in the Holocaust before returning to Germany in his 80s, died at 101 in Leer, in northwestern Germany, weeks after his birthday and the premiere of a film about his life attended by hundreds. In Eurovision news, ten countries, including Finland and Israel, advanced to the final after the first day of competition, despite protests heard during Israel’s performance by Noam Bettan of the rock ballad “Michelle.” In science and space, NASA’s Perseverance rover released a self-portrait after capturing a sequence of 61 images of Mars’ western frontier. And in the United States, New York Governor Hochul announced a reduction in the round-trip bus fare to World Cup matches from $80 to $20.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76228https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-895973https://t.me/DefenderDome/20717https://www.jpost.com/international/article-895974https://t.me/JewishNews24/54278https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-895963https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/mind-and-spirit/article-895976https://t.me/JewishNews24/54280https://t.me/JewishNews24/54281https://t.me/JewishNews24/54277https://t.me/JewishNews24/54279

HEADLINESIran Regains Access to Most Missile SitesCBO: Golden Dome Costs $1.2T, 7,800 SatellitesHezbollah Plans Beirut Occupation Amid PressureThe time is now 10:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Iranian Retaliation, US officials say Iran has regained access to a majority of its missile sites, according to a New York Times report. The active sites include about 30 along the Strait of Hormuz, posing a threat to US naval ships in the area. The report says Iran can still use missile stockpiles in non-operational sites by launching them with mobile launchers, with roughly 70 percent of its mobile launcher inventory remaining. US military agencies are said to indicate about 90 percent of underground missile facilities are at least partially operational, and the current stockpile sits at around 70 percent of its prewar level. The Wall Street Journal has previously cited US intelligence assessments that Iran still retains thousands of short-range ballistic missiles and can reactivate launchers, while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has described Iran's arsenal as “depleted and decimated.”In US Military Role, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that the Golden Dome missile-defense shield could cost about $1.2 trillion to develop, deploy, and operate over 20 years, far exceeding a Pentagon projection of roughly $185 billion. Acquisition costs alone would total just over $1 trillion, with the space-based interceptor layer and a constellation of 7,800 satellites accounting for about 70 percent of the cost. The system would cover the entire United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, and would aim to counter threats from regional adversaries such as North Korea, though the CBO warns it could be overwhelmed by a full-scale attack from Russia or China. The report underscores a yawning gap between the administration’s rhetoric and the price tag that would accompany deployment and operation.In Regional Impacts, South Korea is weighing a phased role in efforts to ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, with Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back saying Seoul conveyed its position to US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and signaled willingness to participate at a measured level. Possible forms of phased support could include political backing, personnel dispatches, information-sharing, and the provision of military assets, though no detailed talks on expanding involvement have taken place, and any decisions would follow domestic procedures. Separately, Vietnam’s trading arm of its state oil company has urged the US Navy to allow a tanker carrying Iraqi crude to sail through the blockade to supply a Vietnamese refinery. The Maltese-flagged Agio Fanourios I, carrying about 2 million barrels, had sailed through the Strait of Hormuz but was redirected in the Gulf of Oman as part of ongoing blockade enforcement, and it remains unclear whether it will be permitted to proceed to Vietnam. The blockade has expanded to include contraband cargoes.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Hezbollah planning to occupy Beirut is intensifying as pressure on Naim Qassem builds, according to security officials. Hezbollah is said to have developed a systematic plan to seize Beirut to push out pragmatic elements and widen the conflict, while Israel is seen as pursuing a move to divide Lebanon. Israeli Northern Command commanders have presented progress in destroying terrorist infrastructure across dozens of Lebanese villages in southern Lebanon, and they say pressure on Qassem is increasing as the conflict unfolds. Walla News reported that Hezbollah views these developments through a lens of strategic pressure, signaling heightened concern over potential Israeli moves in the region.In Israeli Domestic Politics, all options are being kept on the table as Brigadier-General (Reserve) Dedi Simchi announced his entry into the political arena, saying he aims to influence from within and would consider all paths, including the possibility of joining a party, with a focus on unifying blocs rather than adhering to fixed lines. Separately, after two years of ultimatums from ultra-Orthodox parties over the draft law, elections may be moved up only by weeks as coalition tensions approach a conclusion; Shas and key rabbis have largely remained silent while the budget and appointments were secured.In Uplifting News, Magen David Adom announced a new mental health emergency response unit, created in partnership with Israel’s Health Ministry after a successful pilot. The program will phase in expansion and aims to speed up access to appropriate care for mental health emergencies. Mental health professionals will be embedded directly into emergency response, with calls related to mental health now routed to specially trained dispatchers for evaluation, replacing prior handling by standard medical teams, EMS dispatchers, and police. The initiative reflects a growing focus on the complexities of mental health crises and a commitment to improving outcomes in the field.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-895973https://www.jpost.com/international/article-895972https://www.jpost.com/international/article-895974https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/05/vietnam-state-oil-company-urges-us-navy-allow-tanker-through-blockade-documenthttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-895968https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-895963https://www.ynetnews.com/article/b1pnr4zkmghttps://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/mind-and-spirit/article-895976

HEADLINESIran regains most missile sites near HormuzHezbollah seeks Beirut occupation to pressure LebanonCBO pegs Golden Dome at 1.2TThe time is now 9:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, US officials say Iran has regained access to a majority of its missile launch sites, including about 30 active sites along the Strait of Hormuz that could threaten naval traffic. The assessment also states Iran can still use stockpiled missiles at non-operational sites by launching them with mobile launchers, with roughly 70 percent of its mobile launcher inventory available. Intelligence agencies indicate about 90 percent of underground missile facilities are at least partially operational, and Iran’s current missile stockpile sits around 70 percent of its prewar level. Separately, reports have cited evidence that Iran retains thousands of short- and medium-range missiles and can reactivate launchers, even as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has described Iran’s arsenal as depleted and decimated.In Regional Impacts, South Korea is weighing a phased contribution to efforts to ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, signaling steps short of full military participation. Seoul would participate as a responsible member of the international community and would review ways to contribute in a phased manner, including political support, personnel, information-sharing, and possibly the provision of military assets, with decisions proceeding through domestic legal channels. Meanwhile Vietnam’s state oil trading arm has urged the US Navy to allow a tanker laden with Iraqi crude to sail through the blockade to supply a Vietnamese refinery. The Maltese-flagged Agio Fanourios I carried about 2 million barrels and briefly turned back after being redirected during ongoing enforcement of the blockade; it remains unclear whether it will be permitted to proceed. The blockade has expanded to contraband cargoes, though other Gulf oil exports may sail freely.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Hezbollah is planning to occupy Beirut to pressure the Lebanese state to concede, according to security sources. Hezbollah’s leadership is said to believe Israel intends to divide Lebanon and cede large portions of territory, a scenario that increases pressure on Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem. In parallel, Northern Command commanders have presented progress in dismantling terrorist infrastructure in dozens of southern Lebanese villages, and Israeli estimates suggest rising pressure on Qassem as fighting grows. The defense establishment is monitoring the situation as Beirut remains a focal point of this tension.In US Policy Concerning Israel, the Congressional Budget Office estimates the Golden Dome missile defense shield would cost about $1.2 trillion to develop, deploy, and operate over 20 years, a figure far higher than the Pentagon’s estimate of about $185 billion. Acquisition costs alone would exceed $1 trillion, with the space-based interceptor layer and a constellation of about 7,800 satellites accounting for roughly 70 percent of those costs. The system would span the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, and would be designed to deter attacks from regional adversaries, though experts warn it could be overwhelmed by a full-scale assault from Russia or China.In Israeli Domestic Politics, Brigadier-General (Reserve) Dedi Simchi announced he is entering the political arena to influence from within, saying that all options are relevant and that it may involve forming a party or uniting blocs. He described a plan to connect people as a central goal and indicated openness to engaging with multiple political actors. Separately, after two years of Haredi ultimatums over the draft law, elections may move up only by weeks as coalition tensions approach a final phase; ultra-Orthodox parties had threatened to bolt but backed the budget to secure funds and appointments, leaving Shas and key rabbis largely silent as the coalition crisis nears its endgame.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, a Toronto resident has been charged with mischief for knocking over a menorah in front of the Yorkville Jewish Centre. The accused, Jeffrey Johnston, was identified following coverage by The Jerusalem Post. Toronto Police Service said Johnston intentionally knocked over the menorah on April 10, and investigators released photos appealing for public tips. Johnston’s social media posts feature antisemitic imagery, and authorities note the case has drawn public attention as part of ongoing concerns about anti-Jewish hate.In Uplifting News, the Arthur Rubinstein International Piano Master Competition is marking the 18th edition with a bifurcated structure due to security concerns in Israel. The opening stages ran April 28 to May 4 at the Casals Forum in Kronberg, Germany, while the final rounds have been postponed to September 3–9 and will be split between the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and the Charles Bronfman Auditorium. The six finalists are Roman Fediurko, Uladzislau Khandohi, Stanislav Korchagin, Philipp Lynov, Jinhyung Park, and Dmitry Yudin, who will perform chamber music and concertos with the Israel Camerata Jerusalem, followed by an orchestral finale with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. The competition has long helped launch the careers of leading pianists and remains a cornerstone of the international music scene.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-895973https://www.jpost.com/international/article-895974https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/05/vietnam-state-oil-company-urges-us-navy-allow-tanker-through-blockade-documenthttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-895968https://www.jpost.com/international/article-895972https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-895963https://www.ynetnews.com/article/b1pnr4zkmghttps://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-895967https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-895969

HEADLINES- Hamas blocks UAE funded Rafah project- Hezbollah plots Beirut takeover amid Israeli pressure- Toronto man charged over menorah vandalismThe time is now 8:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, Palestinian contractors from Gaza scheduled to reach the Israeli-controlled side to work on rebuilding Rafah were blocked by Hamas last week. The passage was facilitated by the IDF and the US-led Civil-Military Coordination Center as part of early efforts to build a new Palestinian city in Rafah, often referred to as Emirates City, a project funded by the United Arab Emirates with about $1.2 billion toward Gaza’s recovery and aimed at housing tens of thousands of displaced Gazans. Hamas militants threatened the workers at gunpoint and refused them passage, forcibly turning them away. Hamas views the UAE-funded project not just as aid but as a political maneuver to replace its authority, having previously labeled the board as international guardianship. This marks the first time Hamas has blocked activity approved by Trump’s Board of Peace as it seeks to move forward with reconstruction in the strip.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Hezbollah has created a systematic plan to occupy Beirut to push out pragmatic elements, security officials say. The defense establishment notes growing pressure on Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem, who has warned that Israel is preparing to take over large areas of Lebanon. Northern Command Commander Major General Rafi Milo told the IDF Chief of Staff that there has been progress in operations aimed at destroying terrorist infrastructure in dozens of Lebanese villages in southern Lebanon. Israeli estimates suggest that the more the IDF attacks, the more pressure falls on Qassem, who faces the challenge of dividing fighting forces between Beirut, southern Lebanon, and the Beqaa Valley. Walla reported this view against a backdrop of rising criticism in Lebanon.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, a Toronto resident was charged on Tuesday with mischief to property under $5,000 for intentionally knocking over a menorah in front of the Yorkville Jewish Centre on April 10. The Jerusalem Post identified him as Jeffrey Johnston, a Phoenix-born man, and the Toronto Police Service released photographs and appealed for tips that led to his identification. A social media post from the OSINT account Leviathan linked the suspect to an interview with Rebel News, while The Post verified the spelling and name. Johnston wore a jacket similar to images in security footage. Investigators thanked the public for tips that led to the identification. Johnston’s X account contains antisemitic imagery and Nazi quotes. The incident followed remarks from Rabbi Meir Dubrawsky, who described leaving the menorah outside the center as a symbol of Jewish pride and resilience.In Uplifting News, Israel’s Noam Bettan advanced to the Eurovision final after the first semifinal in Vienna. Bettan delivered a dynamic performance of the song “Michelle,” surrounded by five dancers, and was among the 10 acts that will move on to the final. He will compete in the 70th Eurovision Song Contest final on May 16. After his performance, an exuberant Bettan, dancing and wrapped in an Israeli flag, spoke to KAN 11, thanking people around the world and noting that even when there were boos, they were drowned out by love and by humanity. He concluded by saying, we will meet in the final.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-895965https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-895968https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-895967https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-895951

HEADLINESHamas blocks Rafah reconstruction Emirates City stalledIran sheds two million jobs in warHezbollah Plans Beirut Takeover Amid Lebanon TensionsThe time is now 7:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Regional Impacts, Hamas is preventing Gazan contractors from crossing the Yellow Line to rebuild Rafah, threatening them at gunpoint and turning them away. Last week, contractors from across the Strip were blocked from reaching the Israeli-controlled side to work on Emirates City, a UAE-funded project designed to house tens of thousands of displaced Gazans. Passage to the site was facilitated by the IDF and the US-led Civil-Military Coordination Center as part of initial efforts to move Emirates City forward. Hamas views the UAE-funded project as a political maneuver to replace its authority, labeling the board as “international guardianship.” This marks the first time Hamas has blocked activity approved by Trump’s Board of Peace, which aims to push the reconstruction of Rafah ahead.Approximately 2 million jobs have been lost in Iran due to war as an internet blackout enters its fourth month. The wartime economic crisis has driven layoffs across multiple sectors, with officials saying more than one million jobs have been lost and another two million people are directly or indirectly unemployed. The New York Times cites the impact of war-related disruptions, sanctions, infrastructure damage, and the nationwide internet blackout. Sectors affected include manufacturing, steel production, petrochemicals, transportation, and retail, with the overall economy strained by the combination of conflict and sanctions.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Hezbollah is planning to occupy Beirut as pressure on Naim Qassem builds. Security establishment sources say Hezbollah has devised a plan to seize Beirut to push out pragmatic elements, while Israel is alleged to be preparing moves to divide Lebanon, potentially forcing the Lebanese state to cede large areas. Israeli officials note progress in operations against what they describe as terrorist infrastructure in dozens of Lebanese villages in southern Lebanon, raising pressure on Hezbollah Secretary General Qassem, who faces calls to split fighting forces between Beirut, southern Lebanon, and the Beqaa Valley. Israel estimates that intensified attacks could heighten this pressure. Separately, the IDF released footage showing a Hezbollah terrorist emerging from a tunnel near the Litani River and being killed by troops from the Golani Brigade’s Reconnaissance Unit.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, a Toronto resident was charged for knocking over a Jewish center menorah. Jeffrey Johnston, a Phoenix-born man, faces mischief to property under $5,000 after allegedly knocking over a menorah in front of the Yorkville Jewish Centre on April 10. Toronto Police Service released photographs and asked for public assistance identifying him, with the Jerusalem Post confirming the suspect’s identity based on tips received. Johnston’s X account contains antisemitic imagery and Nazi references, and investigators credited public tips for the identification.In Uplifting News, Arthur Rubinstein’s piano competition presents a rich tale of two cities and one legacy. The 18th edition is being held in a bifurcated format due to security concerns in Israel, with opening stages run April 28 to May 4 at the Casals Forum of the Kronberg Academy in Germany, and final stages postponed to September 3–9. The concluding rounds will take place at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and the Charles Bronfman Auditorium, where six finalists—Roman Fediurko, Uladzislau Khandohi, Stanislav Korchagin, Philipp Lynov, Jinhyung Park, and Dmitry Yudin—will perform chamber music and classical concertos with the Israel Camerata Jerusalem before a final orchestral showdown with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. In Eurovision news, Israel’s Noam Bettan advanced to the final after a dynamic performance of “Michelle” in the first semifinal in Vienna, surrounded by five backup dancers. Bettan will compete in the final on May 16, saying thanks to supporters and addressing Jews around the world, stating, “People of Israel, I am speaking to all the Jews around the world: Thank you very much. Thank you for all the love.”Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-895965https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-895957https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-895968https://t.me/JewishNews24/54264https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-895967https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-895969https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-895951