Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-09-23 at 05:06

HEADLINESRobotic units carve path in Gaza SabraHamas seeks 60-day pause to free hostagesUS seeks regional buy-in for postwar GazaThe time is now 3:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.Good morning. This is your hour-by-hour update on the war and the wider regional and international picture, and what it means for security, diplomacy, and civilians.In Gaza, the fighting is entering another phase as Israeli ground operations continue around central Gaza City. Palestinian accounts describe a coordinated push in Sabra, with unmanned, “robotic” vehicles clearing a path for tanks to move through the Sabra neighborhood from Tel al-Hawa to Sabra, a route north of the city center. Reports say at least three to four of these robotic units detonated in recent hours in Sabra, with a map showing Sabra just north of Tel al-Hawa. Arab media and Gaza sources also say tanks have been roaming Tel al-Hawa since yesterday. Video footage circulating reportedly shows a tracked vehicle laying explosive charges inside Sabra, with smoke rising and damage spreading across dozens of structures. In another development, Palestinian sources say Israeli forces have entered the Shati refugee camp on Gaza’s western edge, an area that had not seen ground activity for more than a year and a half. Military movements reportedly followed prior aerial and artillery strikes, with bursts of fire visible across the camp as tanks and armored units moved in west of the Al-Quds Open University site, about 750 meters from the coast. The camp’s congested streets have long raised concerns about civilian harm, and authorities describe a sustained air, artillery, and ground campaign aimed at neutralizing threats and hindering militants in the area.The human toll remains enormous and difficult to verify independently. Gaza’s health ministry, run by Hamas, says more than 65,000 people have been killed or are presumed dead in the fighting to date. Israel counters that its own campaigns have killed more than 22,000 combatants in Gaza and that about 1,600 terrorists have been killed inside Israel during the same period. The civilian toll, as always, is the most contested and painful part of the story, with both sides arguing over civilian casualties and the use of dense urban areas for militancy.Hostages and captives remain a central, unresolved issue. Hamas and allied groups are holding 48 hostages in Gaza, including the bodies of at least 26 confirmed dead. Officials say roughly 20 hostages are believed to be alive, with two in potentially grave condition. The hostage crisis continues to color every ceasefire discussion and hostage negotiation, and efforts to reach a comprehensive ceasefire-hostage agreement are ongoing even as military operations press forward.On the diplomatic front, the war in Gaza continues to shape broader regional and international diplomacy. In New York, US President Donald Trump is slated to address the United Nations General Assembly amid questions about the US role and its approach to Gaza. The White House has outlined plans for a multilateral discussion, inviting leaders from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Indonesia and Pakistan to discuss Gaza and a post-war governance framework. Reports describe a US plan that envisions a withdrawal by Israel under a broader security and funding architecture, with a regional security presence to support reconstruction and governance. While Netanyahu has expressed support for a comprehensive ceasefire-hostage deal, sources familiar with the talks caution that parts of the plan, such as Palestinian Authority involvement in governance, could be difficult for Israel to accept. Hamas has separately circulated a letter to President Trump requesting a 60-day pause in hostilities in exchange for releasing roughly half of the remaining hostages, a proposal that has met resistance from Israeli officials who insist on a comprehensive deal that disarms Hamas and liberates all hostages.In parallel, US diplomacy is moving on other fronts. The Times of Israel reports that President Trump intends to meet Muslim leaders and discuss Gaza, seeking regional buy-in for a plan to end the war. US officials describe a framework they believe could form the contours of a post-war settlement, with international support, funding for transition, and a role for regional security arrangements while ensuring that Hamas is not re-empowered. The White House emphasizes a renewal of American strength and a pushback against what it calls decayed global institutions, while noting that any final settlement will require broad regional acceptance. Netanyahu is said to be familiar with elements of the plan but not fully aligned with every dimension of it, particularly governance arrangements that would involve the Palestinian Authority.Beyond Gaza, the broader Middle East scene shows continued diplomacy and strategic recalibration. A report on the sidelines of the UN gathering notes that Iran and Egypt’s foreign ministers met in New York, signaling ongoing regional diplomacy that could influence posture toward Israel and Iran’s proxies. In Washington, discussions about possible actions against international bodies tied to war-crimes investigations continue, with some discussions reportedly weighing sanctions on the International Criminal Court in The Hague. The aim, officials say, is to address concerns about investigations that touch Israeli officials and broader questions of accountability, though many governments and organizations warn that such moves could complicate existing international cooperation.On the broader security front, there are scattered incidents and developments beyond Gaza. A pair of drone-related disruptions affected air travel in Europe, with Copenhagen and Oslo reporting drone sightings that disrupted flights and led to temporary holds on thousands of passengers. Danish authorities stressed that there was no immediate evidence of a threat to passengers, but the incidents prompted quick responses to secure airspace. In Israel, domestic issues also surface. A significant demonstration in front of the home of Education Minister Yoav Kish drew police attention as supporters pressed for action on the ongoing concern for hostages, while other protests and police activity occurred in multiple locations as part of a broader cycle of political activism during a difficult period.In other regional and related news, an indicator of shifting geopolitical currents comes from the broader arc of diplomacy and economic engagement. The European Union and Indonesia announced a sweeping, nearly comprehensive trade pact that promises major tariff relief for EU exports to Indonesia, including cars and machinery. The accord, while primarily economic in scope, sits against a backdrop of shifting alliances and shared interests in trade, energy, and regional stability. In a separate domestic incident, a 70-year-old man was reported to have collapsed at a Tel Aviv beach and was transported to a hospital in critical condition, underscoring the constant vulnerability of civilians to a wide range of emergencies even amid national security concerns.As we move forward, the central thread remains clear: Israel pursues its security objectives with an emphasis on protecting civilians and pressing for a sustainable end to the Gaza war that would secure the release of hostages and disarm Hamas. The United States continues to align with that aim by seeking regional buy-in and practical steps that could enable Israel’s withdrawal under a governance framework, with international support for reconstruction and security. At the same time, the war has become a global test of diplomacy, international law, and the balance between security and humanitarian obligations, with Iran’s regional posture and the future of its proxies, the fate of Gaza’s people, and the stability of the broader region all riding on today’s decisions and tomorrow’s diplomacy. We will keep you updated as this hour unfolds.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/105419https://t.me/newssil/171794https://www.timesofisrael.com/trump-to-meet-muslim-leaders-to-discuss-proposal-for-ending-war-in-gaza/https://t.me/abualiexpress/105418https://www.ynetnews.com/article/sjpagaj3xghttps://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235427https://t.me/abualiexpress/105417https://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-868406https://t.me/newssil/171793https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235425https://t.me/newssil/171792https://www.timesofisrael.com/why-pomegranates-a-rosh-hashanah-staple-are-disappearing-from-israeli-farms/https://t.me/newssil/171790https://t.me/newssil/171789https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868407https://t.me/newssil/171788https://t.me/newssil/171787https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235422https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235421https://www.al-monitor.com/__%3C%21--%20THEME%20DEBUG%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20THEME%20HOOK%3A%20%27views_view_field%27%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20BEGIN%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E_/originals/2025/09/trump-address-un-he-distances-us-global-cooperation_%3C%21--%20END%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E__https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-868404https://t.me/newssil/171786https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868403https://t.me/newssil/171785https://www.jpost.com/travel/article-868402https://t.me/newssil/171784https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article

HEADLINESFragile Iran-Israel ceasefire teeters on edgeNew Syrian government surfaces after Assad's fallLebanon pressures curb Hezbollah amid border tensionsThe time is now 2:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.This hour, the Middle East sits with a fragile pause in the confrontation between Israel and Iran, a ceasefire that has not yet admitted a lasting peace and remains vulnerable to shifting calculations on both sides. In parallel, observers note a realignment of Iran’s regional reach as the status of its proxies appears diminished, even as Tehran signals it remains committed to influence in the region. The question now is whether the current pause can hold long enough to allow diplomacy to catch up with military operations that have stretched across Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen.In Syria, reports describe the emergence or consolidation of a new government following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad, a development that has intensified Israel’s concern with Iranian entrenchment and with the safety of border communities. Israeli officials have warned that any attempt by Tehran or its allies to extend influence near the Golan Heights will be met with a firm response, a position underscored by recent strikes aimed at Iranian-backed forces and allied militias. Those actions have also fed into a broader debate among regional partners about the balance between stabilizing pressure and the risk of wider confrontation.Lebanon remains a focal point, as Beirut presses to reduce Hezbollah’s presence within its borders. The Israeli Defense Forces have carried out operations that further degraded Hezbollah’s capabilities, while Lebanese authorities face domestic pressure to reassert sovereignty and curb Iranian-backed groups that operate beyond Beirut’s reach. The Lebanese state’s push to reassert control is watched closely by regional partners who fear spillover from any broader confrontation, including renewed clashes along the border.In Gaza, Hamas’ military capacity has weakened relative to the height of the conflict, yet the group’s hold on its captives and hostages continues to shape the dynamics of the war and any ceasefire negotiations. Israeli and Palestinian negotiators—along with international mediators—have signaled that the fate of hostages remains a core issue that any future agreement must address, a reality that keeps pressure on leaders in Jerusalem and in the region to seek a stable path forward without compromising security guarantees.Meanwhile, the conflict’s broad regional ripples persist as Yemen’s Houthi militants continue to conduct attacks that threaten shipping and energy infrastructure, complicating security calculations for Israel’s partners and for international actors urging de-escalation. The regional security environment remains tense as cross-border actions are weighed against humanitarian concerns in Gaza and the ongoing political transitions across the Arab world.On the international stage, five years after the Abraham Accords, Israel’s partners in the Gulf continue to recalibrate their relations with the Jewish state. While trade and people-to-people ties have grown in some sectors, officials and analysts caution that the post-October 7 war period has unsettled some partners’ expectations. Many emphasize the need to balance security cooperation with concerns about Palestinian rights and regional stability. The broader question for Washington’s allies is how much room remains for strategic gains through engagement with Israel as tensions with Iran’s network persist and as regional dynamics shift with new leadership and new alliances.The United States, under President Donald Trump, has pursued an “America First” foreign policy that edges away from traditional multilateralism and foreign aid in favor of a more transactional approach. Trump’s forthcoming address to the United Nations General Assembly is watched for signals about whether Washington will reaffirm or recalibrate its leadership role on Gaza, Ukraine, and other flashpoints. The policy stance described by officials and commentators emphasizes skepticism about sustaining extensive global cooperation while insisting on a security-first posture in defense of US interests and those of its allies, including Israel, with an emphasis on peace through strength and fortified deterrence.Domestically in Israel, attention remains on security and governance amid ongoing security challenges and political demonstrations. A 27-year-old officer, Shahar Netanel Bozaglo, from Migdal HaEmek, was identified as a soldier who fell in combat in northern Gaza, a loss that continues to shape national memory and the urgency of security decisions. In another domestic moment, a man in his seventies was rushed to hospital in Tel Aviv after a medical incident at Tel Baruch Beach; emergency crews treated him at the scene and transported him for advanced care, highlighting the ongoing toll of public incidents amid the country’s broader security concerns. Protests have also drawn attention, with demonstrators gathering outside the home of Education Minister Yoav Kisch in response to hostage issues and related policy debates, and police actions reported as authorities sought to manage crowds.On the humanitarian and cultural front, Israel continues to pursue medical and technological innovations, including advancements in PTSD treatment through neuromodulation devices—an area of medical progress that has drawn international attention and regulatory attention in the United States with new approvals signaling broader access to cutting-edge therapies for veterans and others affected by trauma.In parallel international developments, Egypt released prominent activist Alaa Abdel Fattah following a presidential pardon, underscoring ongoing political shifts in the region and the complex interplay between reform pressures and state security. And in global finance and policy circles, discussions continue around sanctions, diplomacy, and the fate of aid and research funding tied to universities and global institutions as governments weigh responses to crises from Gaza to Iran’s nuclear and missile programs.As this hour closes, the overarching pattern remains clear: a fragile ceasefire framework between Israel and Iran, shifting regional alignments as Syria and Lebanon redefine their political calculations, and a Gaza war that continues to influence hostage negotiations, humanitarian considerations, and international diplomacy. The United States and its allies face the challenge of balancing security assurances with regional stability, while Israeli leaders navigate the demands of defense and deterrence in a rapidly changing neighborhood. In Gaza, in Syria, in Lebanon, and across the Gulf, the next moves will be watched with caution by governments, soldiers, and civilians who live with the consequences of every decision made in boardrooms, capitals, and on battlefields.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-868406https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868407https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235422https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235421https://www.al-monitor.com/__%3C%21--%20THEME%20DEBUG%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20THEME%20HOOK%3A%20%27views_view_field%27%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20BEGIN%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E_/originals/2025/09/trump-address-un-he-distances-us-global-cooperation_%3C%21--%20END%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E__https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-868404https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868403https://www.jpost.com/travel/article-868402https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235416https://www.ynetnews.com/magazine/article/skeixyrolehttps://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235414https://www.timesofisrael.com/as-abraham-accords-turn-5-israels-willingness-to-use-its-military-might-becomes-concern-for-allies/https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235412https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-868399https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235411https://www.al-monitor.com/__%3C%21--%20THEME%20DEBUG%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20THEME%20HOOK%3A%20%27views_view_field%27%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20BEGIN%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E_/originals/2025/09/egypt-frees-activist-alaa-abdel-fattah-after-sisi-pardon_%3C%21--%20END%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E__https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235408https://t.me/newssil/171776

HEADLINESGaza City Push Escalates, Soldier KilledGulf States Wary Yet Working With IsraelFrance Recognizes Palestinian State; Netanyahu Expands SettlementsThe time is now 1:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.This is your hourly update. At this hour, the region remains on edge as a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran continues to hold only unevenly, with both sides warning that any misstep could escalate but with both also signaling a desire to avoid a full return to open conflict.In Gaza, the current military campaign to push into Gaza City has intensified. The Israeli Defense Forces report that more than 200 Hamas targets have been struck as additional units move into position, and the campaign is now marked by the first combat fatality in this latest phase: Major Shahar Netanel Bozaglo, a 27-year-old officer from Migdal HaEmek, was killed by RPG fire in Gaza City. His death underscores the high stakes of Israel’s push to reshape the battlefield in and around the city, even as humanitarian concerns and hostage negotiations continue to loom over the war’s trajectory. Israel has stressed that its actions aim at neutralizing Hamas and protecting civilians, while acknowledging the heavy price of combating an entrenched adversary in densely populated areas.Across the broader Middle East, the status of Israel’s regional partners remains mixed as the war unfolds. Five years after the Abraham Accords, the region’s alliance with Israel persists but faces scrutiny. Public opinion has cooled in several Gulf states, and some partners voice concern about the level of Israeli pressure or the potential spillover of regional tensions. Yet there is also evidence of continued practical cooperation. In the United Arab Emirates, for example, officials continue to emphasize the focus on Gaza relief and reconstruction planning, while maintaining a dialogue that spans security, business, and people-to-people ties. The core dynamic remains simple: Arab states see strategic value in a strong Israel to counter Iranian influence, even as they call for cooperative approaches to ending the Gaza war and stabilizing the region.At the same time, observers note that Israel’s post-October 7 military campaigns have altered regional perceptions. Some Gulf analysts caution that Israel’s expanded operations, including strikes in Syria and even discussions about broader regional reach, could redefine risk calculations for Arab partners. There is particular concern about how far Israel might go if threats to its security mount, and how regional partners would respond if American policy shifts or if Iran intensifies its regional activities. The Qatar strike, for example, drew attention as a rare instance of Israeli action against a long-standing partner state, prompting questions about diplomatic balance and restraint.Meanwhile, France’s recognition of a Palestinian state has generated mixed reactions in the West Bank. While some Palestinians welcomed the gesture as symbolic support for statehood, many view it as insufficient without concrete steps to end the Gaza war and to address daily hardships under occupation conditions. In Israel, Prime Minister Netanyahu pledged to expand settlements in the West Bank in response to foreign recognitions of a Palestinian state, underscoring the ongoing tension between international diplomacy and on-the-ground realities in the territories. The recognition backdrop also fuels broader debates inside Israel about strategy in the Palestinian arena as the Gaza war proceeds.On the diplomatic front in Washington, several Western governments have offered to assist with humanitarian relief for Gaza, including medical corridors and aid for patients in the West Bank. Canada, France, Germany, and others called for restoring medical evacuation routes to Gaza-adjacent territories to ensure urgent treatment for Gaza patients, while urging continued international engagement to prevent a broader humanitarian crisis. In parallel, US President Donald Trump announced plans to convene a multilateral visit with leaders from several Muslim-majority nations to discuss Gaza, signaling ongoing US engagement with regional partners and a shared interest in stabilizing the situation while protecting civilian lives. The White House stressed that Gaza would be a central topic of discussion, along with broader regional security concerns.Within Israel’s domestic and security landscape, the ongoing war is influencing political and security calculations. The recent hostilities have prompted heightened security measures domestically, including increased security for Jewish communities abroad and more robust preventive steps to deter threats from various fronts. The news cycle continues to feature stories of individual resilience and endurance, even as families mourn and communities rally around urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza and the West Bank.In other regional developments, Europe is looking to contribute to relief efforts and diplomatic channels. In the humanitarian sphere, Western governments have signaled willingness to contribute financially, medically trained personnel, and equipment to support relief efforts for Gaza patients being treated on Palestinian soil, contingent on safe, secure corridors for medical evacuations. Egypt also made a notable move by freeing activist Alaa Abdel Fattah, a development that reverberates in the broader conversation about civil rights and political expression in the region.In the United States, evolving domestic and foreign policy considerations continue to intersect with the Gaza crisis. The US remains focused on coordinating with allies and partners to press for humanitarian access, while reaffirming security commitments to Israel. The rhetoric around a strategy that blends deterrence with political and diplomatic engagement remains a touchstone of allied discussions as the war enters a critical phase with high stakes for civilians and for regional stability.As this hour closes, observers are watching to see whether international diplomacy translates into tangible relief and a sustainable path to peace. The region’s dynamics remain intricate: a push for security and deterrence on one side, a pull toward diplomacy and humanitarian relief on the other, all under the shadow of ongoing hostilities and the heavy human toll they produce. We will continue to monitor developments and bring you the latest as events unfold, with careful balance and clear-eyed reporting.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-868406https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868407https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-868404https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868403https://www.jpost.com/travel/article-868402https://www.ynetnews.com/magazine/article/skeixyrolehttps://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235414https://www.timesofisrael.com/as-abraham-accords-turn-5-israels-willingness-to-use-its-military-might-becomes-concern-for-allies/https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235412https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-868399https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235411https://www.al-monitor.com/__%3C%21--%20THEME%20DEBUG%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20THEME%20HOOK%3A%20%27views_view_field%27%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20BEGIN%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E_/originals/2025/09/egypt-frees-activist-alaa-abdel-fattah-after-sisi-pardon_%3C%21--%20END%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E__https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235408https://t.me/newssil/171776https://www.timesofisrael.com/west-bank-palestinians-shrug-off-frances-statehood-recognition-what-will-this-bring-us/https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235406https://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-868398https://www.al-monitor.com/__%3C%21--%20THEME%20DEBUG%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20THEME%20HOOK%3A%20%27views_view_field%27%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20BEGIN%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E_/originals/2025/09/some-western-nations-offer-assist-treating-patients-gaza-west-bank_%3C%21--%20END%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E__https://www.al-monitor.com/__%3C%21--%20THEME%20DEBUG%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20THEME%20HOOK%3A%20%27views_view_field%27%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20BEGIN%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E_/originals/2025/09/trump-meet-officials-muslim-majority-countries-discuss-gaza_%3C%21--%20END%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E__https://www.ynetnews.com/article/bkdyvqkhxxhttps://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235405https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235404https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-868316

HEADLINESGaza City Halved, IDF Pushes DeeperIran Britain France Germany Seek Gaza TalksFDA Clears PTSD Neuromodulation DeviceThe time is now 12:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.The hour’s headline still centers on the Gaza war and the broader fight for regional stability, with diplomacy moving in parallel to the battlefield. In Gaza City, Israel Defense Forces say half of the city has been emptied as ground forces push deeper into the urban battle space in the operation to dismantle Hamas leadership and infrastructure. The latest combat loss on the Israeli side is Major Shahar Netanel Bozaglo, a 27-year-old officer from Migdal HaEmek, who was killed in Gaza City after coming under rocket-propelled grenade fire. The toll in Gaza remains heavy, with intensified air and ground strikes said to be targeting additional Hamas sites as part of a broader push to degrade the group’s military capabilities while preparing for possible hostage considerations beyond the battlefield.Against this backdrop, regional diplomacy has intensified. Foreign ministers from Iran and the three European powers Britain, France and Germany are scheduled to meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly to seek a path that could avert crippling sanctions, a signal that major powers are still seeking a diplomatic corridor even as violence persists. In Washington, the United States has signaled a hard line on Iran’s clerical leadership, pressing Tehran in public channels and at the United Nations, while planning multilateral discussions with Muslim-majority countries to address the Gaza crisis and broader security concerns. The White House has listed a multilateral meeting with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Indonesia and Pakistan, with Gaza on the agenda. The United States also cautioned Iranian officials attending UN events to refrain from activities that could be construed as comfort or celebration, a reminder that diplomatic engagement comes with explicit expectations.On the security front inside Israel and allied territories, the atmosphere remains highly vigilant. In the United States, the Los Angeles Police Department has increased patrols around synagogues during the High Holy Days, reflecting ongoing worries about antisemitic backlash amid regional conflict. In Europe, airport disruptions linked to drone sightings prompted investigations and cooperative checks between authorities in Copenhagen and Oslo, with officials noting early signs of possible links between the incidents as they review flight safety and security protocols. Oslo’s airport resumed full operations after brief closures sparked by similar security concerns, underscoring a pattern of transnational security challenges linked to the conflict’s wider geopolitical milieu.Domestically in Israel, political currents are also stirring. A New York mayoral candidate, Zohran Mamdani, has sparked attention by wishing Jewish communities a Shana Tova while facing accusations of antisemitism and anti-Zionism linked to his calls for divestment from Israel bonds. The episode highlights how American domestic debates about Israel and Jewish safety play out in real time across communities, even as security operations rise to the top priority for many voters. In another strand of regional politics, France’s recognition of a Palestinian state prompted mixed reactions in the West Bank, with some residents accepting the gesture as symbolic and others urging real steps toward peace and a halt to the Gaza war. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded by reiterating that settlement expansion would proceed and that a Palestinian state would not be realized under current conditions, a stance reflecting the ongoing dispute over two-state prospects amid a dangerous war environment.On the international investment and legal front, the United States is weighing broader measures against the International Criminal Court in The Hague in response to the court’s investigations into alleged Israeli war crimes. While the court’s leadership has faced pressure, some member states have signaled resistance to blanket penalties, and the court has safeguarded essential operations by preparing contingency plans. In Washington, supporters of a tougher stance argue that the court’s investigations threaten the security interests of the United States and its allies, while critics warn that blanket sanctions could undermine international justice mechanisms. The debate unfolds as diplomatic channels remain open and high-level officials seek to avoid escalation that could derail ceasefire efforts and hostage negotiations still playing out in Gaza.In the medical and innovation arena, Israel has announced a notable advance in mental health care: the United States Food and Drug Administration has cleared a neuromodulation device to treat post-traumatic stress disorder, a development described as a milestone in noninvasive therapies. The approach combines animated therapeutic characters with neuromodulation technologies to support patient care, illustrating how Israeli biomedical research continues to intersect with international health needs, even as conflict scenarios drive demand for resilient medical solutions.Separately, broader travel and security developments remind audiences that the region’s volatility reverberates worldwide. Drone-related disruptions at Copenhagen and Oslo airports drew early investigations into possible connections, while international relief efforts continued to advocate for humanitarian corridors to Gaza and the West Bank, including calls from Western governments to restore medical evacuations and ensure treatment for Palestinians in need. In the same vein, US officials underscored the importance of steady, principled alliances as they coordinate with regional partners to address both immediate security concerns and longer-term hopes for stability, peace, and prosperity.Looking ahead, observers note that the Gaza war is now entering a critical phase, with Israeli forces advancing and international diplomacy attempting to anchor a path forward. The United States continues to frame its support for Israel as part of a broader strategy of peace through strength, seeking to deter aggression, safeguard civilians where possible, and push for durable arrangements that would reduce hostilities and expand humanitarian access. At the same time, European and allied partners weigh sanctions thresholds and political signals to influence Iran and its regional proxies while reaffirming commitments to Palestinian humanitarian relief and political dialogue. In this tense environment, the coming days will test the balance between military objectives, diplomatic engagement, and the humanitarian imperative to protect civilians caught in the crossfire.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-868406https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868407https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-868404https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868403https://www.jpost.com/travel/article-868402https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-868399https://www.timesofisrael.com/west-bank-palestinians-shrug-off-frances-statehood-recognition-what-will-this-bring-us/https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235406https://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-868398https://www.al-monitor.com/__%3C%21--%20THEME%20DEBUG%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20THEME%20HOOK%3A%20%27views_view_field%27%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20BEGIN%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E_/originals/2025/09/some-western-nations-offer-assist-treating-patients-gaza-west-bank_%3C%21--%20END%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E__https://www.al-monitor.com/__%3C%21--%20THEME%20DEBUG%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20THEME%20HOOK%3A%20%27views_view_field%27%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20BEGIN%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E_/originals/2025/09/trump-meet-officials-muslim-majority-countries-discuss-gaza_%3C%21--%20END%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E__https://www.ynetnews.com/article/bkdyvqkhxxhttps://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235405https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235404https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-868316https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868397https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235403https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235402https://www.timesofisrael.com/us-may-soon-sanction-entire-international-criminal-court-over-israel-war-crimes-probe/https://www.jpost.com/omg/article-867618https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868395https://www.ynetnews.com/article/sjje2d13lg

HEADLINES- Fragile Israel-Iran ceasefire teeters toward renewed fighting- Hamas weakened in Gaza, hostage crisis persists- Palestine gains Western recognition amid two-state talkThe time is now 11:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.This is the late night update. The uneasy ceasefire between Israel and Iran’s regional network remains fragile, with both sides watching closely for any move that could spark renewed fighting. In Syria, observers note the political landscape is shifting and Iran’s proxies face new pressure as a new governing balance takes shape after long-standing leadership changes. Hezbollah’s combat capacity has been reduced by Israeli military pressure, and Lebanon is pushing to curb the group’s presence along the border. In Gaza, Hamas’s military capabilities are described as diminished, though the hostage situation there continues to complicate any possible pathway to a broader settlement. Meanwhile, Yemen’s Houthi attacks persist, keeping Red Sea shipping routes and energy facilities in the region under strain and contributing to rising regional anxiety about broader spillover.Internationally, the United States is weighing broader measures against the International Criminal Court in response to probes into alleged Israeli war crimes, with officials signaling the possibility of sanctions that would reach the court’s day‑to‑day operations, potentially affecting salaries, banking relationships, and software access. The court’s independence and jurisdiction have become a flashpoint in a dispute that Washington frames as a national security concern, even as some ICC and member state officials push back. Separately at the United Nations, Western governments are advancing moves toward Palestinian statehood, with Australia, Britain and Canada joining a growing number of nations that recognize Palestine, while Finland and others sign a joint declaration to ease access for Gazans seeking treatment in the West Bank as the UN debates a path to a two‑state solution. Those developments come as international diplomacy seeks to align on a pathway amid ongoing conflict.Domestically in Israel, the war front is shaping policy moves at home. The government has stepped up enforcement related to conscription among Haredi yeshiva students, a contentious issue that intersects with security needs and political pressures within the country. The annual Rosh Hashanah pilgrimage to Uman, Ukraine, has been affected by the clash between religious observance and the broader draft controversy; arrests of draft dodgers at Ben Gurion Airport reflect the new tempo of enforcement as thousands of pilgrims prepare for the High Holy Days while the country remains engaged in Gaza’s war theater. The tension over who serves and how those decisions are implemented continues to influence domestic politics and social cohesion.In Washington, the administration aligned with Israel’s security priorities continues to project a policy posture described by supporters as pursuing peace through strength, including a domestic hardline stance on internal security matters. The rhetoric and actions reflect a continuous emphasis on countering threats and sustaining close cooperation with Israeli leadership, even as diplomatic efforts worldwide push toward a longer‑term vision of stability in the region.On the European front, travel and security disruptions underscored the real‑world consequences of ongoing tension in the region. Oslo’s airport reopened after a temporary closure tied to an airspace incident, following a similar disruption at Copenhagen earlier in the week, signaling the persistent sensitivity of European travel corridors to security alerts amid a volatile security landscape.As events unfold, the overarching picture remains twofold: a region trying to stabilize amid competing pressures and a suite of international responses that test alliances, legal norms, and the prospects for a broader peace. The United States and its allies continue to support Israel’s right to defend itself while pressing for pathways to de‑escalation and a two‑state framework, and partners around the world are adapting their policies in response to a rapidly shifting set of realities. This is the evening briefing as events continue to evolve.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-868398https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-868316https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868397https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235403https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235402https://www.timesofisrael.com/us-may-soon-sanction-entire-international-criminal-court-over-israel-war-crimes-probe/https://www.jpost.com/omg/article-867618https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868395https://www.ynetnews.com/article/sjje2d13lghttps://www.jpost.com/international/article-868396https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235401https://www.al-monitor.com/__%3C%21--%20THEME%20DEBUG%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20THEME%20HOOK%3A%20%27views_view_field%27%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20BEGIN%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E_/originals/2025/09/australia-pm-cites-killed-aid-worker-speech-palestinian-recognition_%3C%21--%20END%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E__https://www.timesofisrael.com/annual-rosh-hashanah-pilgrimage-to-uman-clouded-by-arrests-of-yeshiva-students-in-israel/https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868390

HEADLINESIran Nuclear Talks Stall as Sanctions LoomPalestinian Statehood Recognized by Luxembourg Malta AndorraDrone Disruptions Close Copenhagen OsloThe time is now 10:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.This is a live hourly update. It is ten o'clock in the evening, local time, and the world remains attentive to a shifting mosaic of conflict, diplomacy, and everyday life under pressure. On the diplomatic front, senior officials from Iran and three European powers are engaged in last-ditch discussions aimed at forestalling a revival of United Nations sanctions on Tehran. The talks take place on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly, with foreign ministers from Iran, Britain, France, and Germany expected to meet to consider Tehran’s nuclear ambitions as the parties weigh the fate of a deal reached years ago. Iran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, while the European trio has argued that Tehran has not complied with the terms of the 2015 agreement. The discourse, backed by reports from several Western diplomats and Iranian officials, underscores how fragile elements of regional stability remain as the international community weighs potential action.In related security developments, transport hubs in Europe have faced disruptions tied to drone activity. The Copenhagen airport has resumed operations after a temporary shutdown sparked by drone sightings, though delays and some cancellations persist. In Oslo, the airport was closed for several hours after drones were detected in the vicinity, with authorities diverting traffic to the nearest facilities. The incidents illustrate how aerial threats, though sporadic, can reverberate through travel and regional security calculations at a time of heightened alert.Diplomatic moves outside Europe also underscore the evolving map of recognition and governance. Luxembourg, Malta, and Andorra joined France and others in recognizing a Palestinian state during United Nations General Assembly events, signaling a shifting political moment in which a growing number of governments are publicly weighing a two‑state framework. Belgium followed with a pledge to recognize the State of Palestine once hostages are released and Hamas is no longer governing Gaza, explicitly tying diplomatic steps to on‑the‑ground conditions. In a parallel thread, the United States privately cautioned Israel against moving toward annexation of parts of the West Bank; American officials stressed that the conversation is not over, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is slated to discuss the matter with President Donald Trump at the White House in the coming days, as both allies debate how best to advance peace while maintaining security.On the security front in the region, the war in Gaza continues to shape regional calculations. The Israeli Defense Forces reported substantial flows of people and assets within Gaza City as troops advance, with authorities cautioning that civilian safety remains the central concern in a densely populated urban battlefield. Egypt said it would convene an international Gaza reconstruction conference as soon as a ceasefire is reached, emphasizing the international community’s readiness to mobilize funding for reconstruction once immediate humanitarian needs and security concerns are addressed. The hostages and casualties remain a central thread, shaping both international diplomacy and domestic debate about how best to secure enduring stability and a future in which the Gaza Strip can recover and govern.In Syria and the wider border region, discussions continued about Israel’s security arrangement with its neighbors. A meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly included dialogue about Israel-Syria relations and the prospects for greater regional security. Washington has indicated an interest in brokering arrangements that could ease tensions along the border and move toward stabilization, even as the broader political landscape in Syria remains complex and fluid.Within Israel itself, domestic political and social tensions continue to intersect with a prolonged period of conflict and mobilization. In the national spotlight are efforts to address the role of ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students in military service. A large-scale police and security operation at the country’s checkpoints and airports has coincided with a broader dispute over the draft exemptions that have historically shielded some religious students from service. The annual pilgrimage to the grave of a Hasidic master in Ukraine, a tradition drawing tens of thousands of worshippers each year, has become an additional flashpoint in this balancing act. Arrests of draft-evading individuals at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport have highlighted the tension between civil obedience and religious study, with some pilgrims expressing determination to maintain the rite despite the political risks. The government has allocated funds to support travel for pilgrims and has also pledged enforcement to ensure those who have not yet reported for duty face consequences, reflecting the government’s effort to share the burden of security costs while addressing long‑standing social divisions.On the humanitarian and strategic horizon, the broader regional equation remains tied to the fate of hostages, the pace of any ceasefire, and the international community’s willingness to fund reconstruction and stabilize the broader conflict environment. At the same time, the foreign policy posture of major powers, including the United States, continues to maneuver through a crowded field of priorities: deterring escalation, maintaining alliance cohesion, and testing pathways to a negotiated two-state framework that could offer durable security guarantees for Israel while addressing Palestinian self‑determination in a manner consistent with regional stability.As the night unfolds, observers will watch for any changes in the tone of negotiations around the Iranian nuclear question, any new UN General Assembly developments on Palestinian statehood, updates from the Gaza frontier as Israeli forces consolidate footholds there, and any shifts in the domestic and international calculus that could alter the path toward peace through strength—an approach framed by close alignment between Israel and the United States, and rooted in a clear assessment of security needs, diplomatic opportunity, and humanitarian responsibility. This is the evening’s update from the frontline of a persistently unsettled 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/american-politics/article-868398https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-868316https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868397https://www.jpost.com/omg/article-867618https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868395https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868396https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235401https://www.al-monitor.com/__%3C%21--%20THEME%20DEBUG%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20THEME%20HOOK%3A%20%27views_view_field%27%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20BEGIN%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E_/originals/2025/09/australia-pm-cites-killed-aid-worker-speech-palestinian-recognition_%3C%21--%20END%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E__https://www.timesofisrael.com/annual-rosh-hashanah-pilgrimage-to-uman-clouded-by-arrests-of-yeshiva-students-in-israel/https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868390https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235400https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235399https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235398https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog-september-23-2025/https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868394

HEADLINES- US tightens Iran access at UN- France recognizes Palestinian state with conditions- Drones halt Copenhagen and Oslo flightsThe time is now 9:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.This is the 9:00 PM hourly news update. We begin with a scene at the United Nations where international diplomacy is playing out against a backdrop of a sprawling crisis in Gaza and shifting alignments across the region. The United States has imposed strict limits on the Iranian delegation attending the General Assembly in New York, curbing movement and barring access to wholesale stores and luxury goods. A State Department spokesperson said the aim is to maximize pressure on Tehran’s clerical leadership, arguing that Iranian authorities enjoy privileges abroad while ordinary Iranians face hardship at home. The move signaling Washington’s intent to keep the focus on Tehran’s policies comes as Tehran, pressed by Western partners, engages in last-ditch discussions over its nuclear program.In parallel, Iran and European powers are weighing options to prevent a revival of UN sanctions on Tehran. Two senior Iranian officials and two Western diplomats describe ongoing talks on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly among Iran, Britain, France, and Germany, collectively known as the E3, and with EU officials and the UN nuclear watchdog. Tehran characterizes the discussions as a way to resolve disagreements over its nuclear ambitions, insisting its program remains peaceful. Diplomats caution that while ideas have circulated, the chances of a rapid breakthrough remain uncertain as the clock ticks on the 30-day window that some European partners have pursued to reimpose UN measures.Across Europe, the atmosphere around travel and security was jolted by drone activity. The Copenhagen airport, a major hub for the Nordic region, reopened after drones prompted a halt to all takeoffs and landings for several hours. Police said multiple large drones were spotted near the airport, leading to a suspension of operations and a heavy security presence outside the facility. In Oslo, authorities briefly closed the airport as drone activity prompted diversions, with the struggle to return to normal flight schedules expected to continue for some time. The disruptions illustrate a growing security challenge as drones become a visible tool in regional instability.Meanwhile, at the UN, the question of Palestine’s status and the two-state solution has dominated much of the day’s diplomacy. France formally announced recognition of a Palestinian state during the General Assembly, a move echoed by several other European partners, including Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, San Marino and Andorra. This wave of recognitions comes as Western nations press for a path toward a two-state outcome, while the United States publicly opposes such recognitions at this stage, arguing they could complicate efforts to secure a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza. The Belgian prime minister said recognition would proceed only after hostages are released and Hamas is removed from power in Gaza, signaling conditional engagement rather than an immediate shift on the ground.Among the leaders speaking at the conference, French President Emmanuel Macron announced France’s recognition of a Palestinian state, arguing that recognition advances peace if tied to concrete commitments. Macron outlined a plan to support a two-state framework and to condition cooperation with Israel on steps toward ending the war, including the dismantling of Hamas and a broader international stabilization effort. In parallel, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas outlined reform steps intended to strengthen governance and prepare for post-war realities, pledging elections within a year of the war’s end and a bank of reforms to the PA’s institutions, education system, and social welfare programs. Abbas stressed a commitment to democracy, the rule of law and transparency, while seeking a future in which the Palestinian state would be governed under a constitution and electoral processes overseen by international observers.The Western-led push for a Palestinian state has intensified discussions about the prospects for a two-state arrangement, even as Israeli officials stress their security concerns. Israel’s ambassador to the UN emphasized that, in the current climate, there is no viable partner on the Palestinian side for a broader peace process and cautioned against premature moves that could undermine security. At the same time, the White House reiterated its opposition to recognizing a Palestinian state in the current moment, arguing the step risks rewarding Hamas and undermining hostage negotiations. The global debate reflects a widening international stance on Palestinian governance and the timing of any recognition, with France proposing conditions that include a role for international security support and a pathway to Palestinian authority governance in Gaza and the West Bank.On the security front, Egypt’s prime minister said Cairo would host a Gaza reconstruction conference as soon as a ceasefire is reached, highlighting the humanitarian and economic stakes of the conflict. He stressed the international community’s duty to mobilize funding for reconstruction while the war continues. In parallel, Belgium’s leadership signaled a measured approach to recognition, insisting that the statehood move come after hostages are released and Hamas is removed from power, underscoring the tension between humanitarian concerns and political symbolism.At the same time, US preparations for a broader regional peace initiative continue. Reports indicate the Trump administration plans to present a comprehensive Gaza-ending framework to Arab leaders, a gathering that would include a wide circle of regional players and partners. The aim is to align political diplomacy with potential security and humanitarian assistance to Gaza and to shape a postwar framework that could include stabilization and governance arrangements in Gaza through regional participation.Beyond the diplomacy in New York, other headlines reflect ongoing turmoil. Reports from several outlets indicate that the US has privately advised Israel against moving unilaterally toward annexation of parts of the West Bank, arguing that such steps could jeopardize the broader peace process. Israel’s leadership has signaled a willingness to discuss the issue with visiting US leaders, while maintaining a focus on rescuing hostages and continuing the campaign against Hamas. On the security front, there are continuing concerns about the role of external actors and the potential for renewed escalation as diplomatic efforts attempt to avert further violence.In a separate but related development, a report from the Times of Israel notes that US President Donald Trump signed a presidential order designating Antifa as a terrorist organization, directing federal agencies to investigate and disrupt activities tied to that designation. The move signals how domestic security measures and international policy discussions intertwine in this volatile period.Finally, the broader conflict remains marked by ongoing Houthi attacks from Yemen, which continue to pose risks to shipping lanes and regional stability, underscoring that the Gaza crisis is part of a wider pattern of confrontation in the region.This concludes our 9:00 PM hourly update. We will bring you the latest developments as they unfold.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-868397https://www.jpost.com/christianworld/article-867614https://www.jpost.com/omg/article-867618https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868395https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868396https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868390https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235400https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235399https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235398https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog-september-23-2025/https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868394https://www.timesofisrael.com/france-leads-group-of-european-nations-recognizing-palestinian-state-at-un-summit/https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235395https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235394https://www.timesofisrael.com/will-encourage-more-bloodshed-franco-israelis-slam-macron-for-recognizing-palestine/https://t.me/newssil/171775https://www.al-monitor.com/__%3C%21--%20THEME%20DEBUG%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20THEME%20HOOK%3A%20%27views_view_field%27%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20BEGIN%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E_/originals/2025/09/us-iranian-officials-attending-un-no-shopping-sprees-new-york_%3C%21--%20END%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E__

HEADLINESGaza hostages endure as Hamas weakenedSyria forms new government near Israel borderFrance backs historic Palestinian state at UNThe time is now 8:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.Good evening. The region remains in a cautious balance as an uneasy ceasefire between Israel and Iran and their proxies persists, even as fighting and diplomacy continue to move in tandem along Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon. On the ground, Iran’s network of influence appears stretched and under pressure: in Syria, a new government described as arising after upheaval around Bashar al-Assad’s leadership signals a shift in how Tehran projects power on the border with Israel; in Lebanon, Hezbollah has faced setbacks from Israeli defense actions, while Beirut faces domestic pressure to curb or expel militant activities from its soil. In Gaza, Hamas’s military capabilities are described as diminished, yet the organization remains in control of hostages, complicating any path toward a broader settlement and prolonging the humanitarian crisis.Regionally, Yemen’s Houthis continue their strikes, adding a dangerous edge to a volatile theater and challenging international efforts to secure shipping routes and humanitarian aid. The international picture this week also features a focus on Palestinian statehood; Western governments have moved to recognize a Palestinian state in various forums, with France joining other allies at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, a move that drew sharp reactions from some observers who say it could complicate security calculations on the ground. In Washington, officials say the United States plans to present a Gaza-ending framework to Arab leaders, with participation expected from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Indonesia, and Pakistan, signaling a continued push for a peace through strength approach in the region.At the United Nations, the United States has imposed strict limits on the Iranian delegation’s movement and access, citing the aim of maximizing pressure on Tehran while noting the ordinary Iranian people face economic hardship and shortages back home. The remarks came as Iran’s delegation prepared for the General Assembly, underscoring the continued tension between pursuit of diplomacy and pressure-based policy.In New York, Syria’s former security figure, Ahmed al-Sharaa, spoke about the possibility of a security arrangement with Israel that would preserve Syria’s sovereignty and address some Israeli security concerns, while expressing skepticism about broader normalization. Meanwhile US allies and lawmakers signaled that any broader peace would require credible guarantees and sustained stability in the region.Across the Atlantic, a disruption of civil aviation in Europe reminded observers that regional instability reverberates far beyond the battlefield. In Copenhagen, authorities reopened the airport after drones caused the temporary halt of all arrivals and departures, with delays and cancellations expected to continue as investigators review what happened.South of the border, explosions in Pakistan near the Afghan border killed at least 24 people, most civilians, a reminder that geopolitical tensions can ignite violence at moments and places far from the centers of power.Back home in Israel, leaders continue to balance security and diplomacy as the war’s shadow shapes daily life and political calculations. The United States and its regional partners insist that any path to peace must be anchored in security, deterrence, and a clear plan to end the Gaza war, even as they recognize the gravity of the humanitarian crisis and the need for accountability and stability across the region.In other news, a new wave of holiday-themed children’s books offers stories from Uganda to Hong Kong and from Sephardic traditions to modern Jewish life, reflecting a global community’s enduring commitment to remembrance, renewal, and education during the season of reflection.That is the latest from the front lines and the world stage. We will continue to monitor these developments and bring you updates as they occur.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-868390https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868394https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-868393https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235395https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235394https://www.timesofisrael.com/will-encourage-more-bloodshed-franco-israelis-slam-macron-for-recognizing-palestine/https://t.me/newssil/171775https://www.al-monitor.com/__%3C%21--%20THEME%20DEBUG%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20THEME%20HOOK%3A%20%27views_view_field%27%20--%3E_%3C%21--%20BEGIN%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E_/originals/2025/09/us-iranian-officials-attending-un-no-shopping-sprees-new-york_%3C%21--%20END%20OUTPUT%20from%20%27core/themes/stable9/templates/views/views-view-field.html.twig%27%20--%3E__https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868392https://www.timesofisrael.com/as-israel-and-syria-negotiate-security-deal-sharaa-balks-at-potential-normalization/https://www.timesofisrael.com/new-high-holidays-childrens-books-take-place-in-uganda-hong-kong-and-a-sephardic-home/https://t.me/newssil/171774https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-868232

HEADLINESFrance Sparks Western Push Recognizing Palestine StateGaza Ceasefire Talks Gain Momentum Hostages DiscussedUS Weighs Sanctions Relief to Promote TalksThe time is now 7:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.Seven o’clock update. Western capitals moved at the United Nations General Assembly to recognize a Palestinian state, with France announcing recognition and being joined by Luxembourg, Belgium, Monaco, Malta, Andorra, and other allies. Officials framed the move as a step toward a two state solution, but they stressed that recognition on its own is not expected to deliver immediate changes on the ground.In Washington, President Donald Trump is preparing to present to a gathering of Arab leaders a United States plan to end the Gaza war. Attendees are reported to include senior officials and leaders from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Indonesia, and Pakistan. The objective is to outline a path toward a negotiated ceasefire and a broader security framework for the region, with the aim of steadying the volatile situation in Gaza as humanitarian relief continues.In New York, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, in town for the United Nations General Assembly, said he hopes for a security agreement with Israel that preserves Syria’s sovereignty and addresses Israeli security concerns. He emphasized that Syria would not be drawn into normalization or participation in regional accords such as the Abraham Accords, and he questioned whether Israel’s goals are truly about security or expansion. His remarks underscore the continuing caution around any formal steps toward normalization despite talks of security arrangements.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there is a new window of possibility for peace with both Syria and Lebanon after an Israeli military campaign that he says has degraded Hezbollah’s capabilities. He cautioned that more time would be needed to reach a durable agreement, and he warned that any deal would have to address Israel’s security needs along the border and in the region.The United States is weighing the potential easing of Assad-era sanctions on Syria as part of a broader diplomatic effort to promote security talks among Israel, Syria, and their neighbors. United States officials, including a senior envoy and the director of the Central Intelligence Agency, indicated that sanctions relief could be structured to support momentum in negotiations, while not dismantling essential leverage if talks stall.In Gaza, there is renewed momentum in ceasefire discussions. Senior Hamas officials told a Saudi newspaper that a new effort is underway to draft a ceasefire agreement and that the next two weeks should clarify what both sides are prepared to offer toward advancing even a temporary halt to the Israeli operation and opening space for fuller negotiations. Arab mediators are reportedly engaged, and maps outlining a staged pullback from parts of the Strip are being discussed. A separate line of reporting from regional channels cites a proposal that would include the release of ten hostages and the return of two bodies, along with American guarantees of a sixty-day ceasefire and the delivery of humanitarian aid. Hamas and Israel have not publicly responded to these new proposals.Meanwhile, some reporting indicates new diplomatic overtures aimed at ending the Gaza crisis. A report in the Saudi-backed press suggested a renewed push for a ceasefire deal tied to hostage releases and a measured redeployment of forces to allow for humanitarian relief and reconstruction corridors. Additional reporting notes that Qatar remains involved in mediating communications between Israel and Hamas, while Washington continues to stress the importance of keeping hostages safe and ensuring humanitarian access.In the developing story from the region, Pakistan reported explosions near the Afghan border that killed at least twenty-four people, most of them civilians. Local accounts conflicted on the cause, with some saying air strikes hit residential houses and others suggesting an explosion at a munitions storage site. Pakistani authorities indicated that there was no consensus yet on the origin of the blasts, and investigators are continuing to examine evidence and secure the area.Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, addressing the General Assembly as well, called for Palestine to obtain full membership in the United Nations, adding to a broader chorus of international voices urging a defined political path for a Palestinian state within a two state framework. The reaction from Israeli officials emphasized that any formal recognition abroad must be matched by progress on security concerns and a credible plan to end the current hostilities.Domestically in Israel, the security environment remains intense as talks of normalization and regional security arrangements unfold in parallel with ongoing operations in Gaza. Israeli officials stress that any agreement must safeguard Israel’s security and sovereignty while enabling humanitarian relief and stabilization in the region. The United States continues to frame its diplomacy around a doctrine of peace through strength, with emphasis on coordination with regional partners to deter aggression, limit humanitarian suffering, and pursue a sustainable path to stability.As the hour advances, the scene in the Middle East remains fluid. Diplomatic moves, security considerations, and humanitarian concerns intersect in a rapidly shifting landscape, with Washington centering its approach on close coordination with Israel and its regional partners to pursue a political track designed to end the Gaza war, while maintaining vigilant protection of Israeli security interests.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-868390https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868394https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-868393https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868392https://www.timesofisrael.com/as-israel-and-syria-negotiate-security-deal-sharaa-balks-at-potential-normalization/https://www.timesofisrael.com/new-high-holidays-childrens-books-take-place-in-uganda-hong-kong-and-a-sephardic-home/https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-868232https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235390https://t.me/newssil/171773https://t.me/newssil/171772https://t.me/newssil/171771https://t.me/newssil/171770https://t.me/newssil/171769https://t.me/newssil/171768https://t.me/newssil/171767https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/09/23/report-new-push-for-gaza-ceasefire-deal/https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235387https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868389https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235385

HEADLINESUS peace plan to end Gaza warFrance recognizes Palestinian state fueling two-state pushIndonesia links Israel recognition to Palestinian stateThe time is now 6:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.Good evening. At six o’clock, we begin with a sweeping moment in the Gaza crisis as Washington prepares a new push to end the war. President Donald Trump is scheduled to present a US-brokered plan to Arab leaders including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Indonesia, and Pakistan in a bid to advance peace through a unified approach. The aim, officials say, is to secure a pathway to halt the fighting and to restart serious diplomacy among regional partners who have long sought a resolution that respects Israel’s security needs while addressing Palestinian aspirations.Across the Gaza front, a new round of diplomacy is taking shape around a possible ceasefire deal. Senior Hamas officials cited in the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat said an effort is underway to draft a new ceasefire framework, with the next two weeks expected to clarify what each side might offer toward a temporary halt to the Israeli operation and the opening of a pathway to more substantive negotiations. Sources say several Arab states are coordinating talks aimed at ending the war completely and securing the withdrawal of Israeli forces from residential areas, with maps showing pullbacks in different parts of the Strip. On the table is a proposal reported by Al-Hadath and Al-Arabiya that would include the release of ten hostages and the return of two bodies, including American citizens, backed by American guarantees of a 60-day ceasefire and humanitarian aid deliveries. Neither Israel nor Hamas has publicly endorsed the new plan, and discussions continue through mediators.In parallel, a broader international impulse to back Palestinian statehood has gained momentum. At the United Nations, France announced recognition of a Palestinian state, joining a group of Western partners that have moved in that direction in recent days. This follows steps by Malta, Luxembourg, and Belgium, and marks a shift in diplomatic posture as the two-state framework again ascends to the center of international discourse. France insists its move is aimed at sustaining the possibility of a negotiated two-state solution, even as the ground reality in Gaza remains dire and the fate of hostages unresolved. Other European nations have joined in similar declarations in recent days, signaling a coordinated, if controversial, approach to Palestine’s status on the world stage.In New York, the French president underscored a shared aim: to free the 48 hostages believed held by Hamas and to end the war in Gaza, while stressing that the path to peace must be real, time-bound, and anchored in a sustainable two-state outcome. The international mood is one of urgency mixed with skepticism about whether recognition alone can translate into ground changes that Israel views as essential for its security and for humanitarian relief to Gaza’s civilian population.Meanwhile, the wave of recognition has provoked strong reactions in several European capitals. After France, Monaco’s decision to recognize a Palestinian state added to the momentum but also sparked domestic debate about how such steps influence the prospects for peace on the ground. In France, the government’s stance prompted discussions about public displays of support for Palestine, with some local authorities choosing to fly the Palestinian flag in defiance of official calls for neutrality. The broader public conversation in Europe reflects a society wrestling with security concerns, support for humanitarian relief, and conflicting views on how to advance a two-state solution while confronting ongoing violence.On the ground in the wider region, voices from leaders close to the Israeli security narrative have been pointed. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, speaking at a UN gathering, criticized the Netanyahu government’s approach, saying their actions risk making the establishment of a Palestinian state nearly impossible and driving many Palestinians to seek exit from the region. Erdogan’s comments reflect a belief in a broader regional logic: that security, political settlement, and humanitarian concerns must be reconciled in a manner that does not simply punish civilians or ignore the political rights of the Palestinian people. The Turkish position signals continued pressure from a key ally of Hamas and other Gaza actors, even as mediation circles widen.From Amman, Jordan, King Abdullah II used the same forum to call for an end to violence by settlers and a renewed focus on a two-state pathway. His remarks reflect a regional emphasis on reducing friction in the West Bank and advancing a negotiated settlement that preserves hope for both Israelis and Palestinians. In a similar vein, Indonesian President Joko Widodo, signaling a practical linkage in regional diplomacy, stated that when Israel recognizes a Palestinian state, Indonesia will recognize Israel. The exchange underscores a hard-edged principle many governments hold: recognition is meaningful when tied to genuine commitments to a peace process and to the rights and security of all people in the region.The diplomacy unfolding at the UN and in the capital cities comes as Europe witnesses a notable domestic event: more than 80 French towns raised the Palestinian flag in an act described by supporters as solidarity with a people seeking self-determination, even as interior ministers urged neutrality. The gesture underscored how international diplomacy and domestic sentiment can collide in ways that influence public opinion and electoral politics back home, even as governments seek to project unity with partners across the Atlantic and the Middle East.In other international headlines, a security incident near Europe’s skies drew attention to evolving threats. Copenhagen’s main airport briefly closed after authorities detected drones above the airfield, forcing at least a dozen flights to reroute and delaying schedules. Similar drone sightings were reported over Oslo and Stockholm, with authorities urging vigilance. The incidents come as Western capitals reassess airspace security and the potential for new forms of threat that require coordinated civil and military responses.Turning to the Palestinian leadership’s own diplomacy, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas delivered remarks at the UN urging a course for peace that anchors a two-state solution and calls for a future where Gaza’s governance is transitioned to the Palestinian Authority, under a demilitarized framework that respects Israel’s right to exist. In a structured list of eight points, Abbas emphasized the moral and political dimensions of the conflict: condemnation of occupation and violence by all sides, insistence on international aid to Gaza and a withdrawal of Israeli forces from the territory, the release of hostages, and a commitment to elections to establish a legitimate leadership within a year of the war’s conclusion. Abbas’s speech also included a reaffirmation of recognition of Israel’s right to exist and a call for negotiations, while cautioning against conflating solidarity with antisemitism. The address framed the Palestinian leadership’s stance as grounded in a pursuit of statehood that coexists with security and peace for both peoples.Against that backdrop, the broader US approach to the region continues to hinge on a strategy of “peace through strength.” The Trump administration’s emphasis on aligning with Israel’s security needs while supporting a viable two-state framework remains a touchstone for allied diplomacy, even as other governments push new recognitions and new peace formulas. In Washington, officials stress the need for credible guarantees to sustain any ceasefire, including humanitarian access, the safe return of hostages, and a credible mechanism to prevent a renewed cycle of violence. The aim is not only to stop the current fighting but to set in motion a political track that addresses the legitimate security concerns of Israel while acknowledging Palestinian rights and state aspirations.In sum, a moment of intense diplomatic activity is shaping the path forward: a US-led effort to end the Gaza war with broad regional participation; a renewed push, or at least a renewed discussion, about a two-state plan anchored by international recognition and security guarantees; and a backdrop of security challenges and political mobilization across Europe and the Arab world. The coming days will test whether these parallel tracks—diplomacy and security—can converge into a durable framework that reduces civilian suffering, preserves Israel’s security, and honors Palestinian hopes for statehood within a negotiated settlement. We will continue to follow the talks, the proposals, and the on-the-ground realities in Gaza and the surrounding region as this process unfolds.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-868394https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-868393https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868392https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-868232https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235390https://t.me/newssil/171773https://t.me/newssil/171772https://t.me/newssil/171771https://t.me/newssil/171770https://t.me/newssil/171769https://t.me/newssil/171768https://t.me/newssil/171767https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/09/23/report-new-push-for-gaza-ceasefire-deal/https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1235387https://www.jpost.com