Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-05-12 at 11:02

HEADLINESFour IRGC Operatives Captured on BubiyanHegseth Hearing Erupts Over Iran War FundingSecond Suspect Arrested in DePaul Campus AttackThe time is now 12:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In US Military Role, two individuals were ejected from the Senate Appropriations hearing as War Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine faced questions from lawmakers about military funding amid the war with Iran. One protester escorted out was a woman who was yelling about Iranian-American opposition to the Middle East war.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Kuwait said four IRGC-linked operatives were captured after trying to infiltrate Bubiyan Island, Kuwait’s largest island. Two of the men identified themselves as Naval Colonels. They reportedly attempted to infiltrate the island by a fishing vessel, and a clash left a Kuwaiti Armed Forces member injured. Bubiyan hosts major civilian and military installations, including ports and substations. Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry condemned the IRGC actions as a hostile infringement on sovereignty, demanded that Iran halt its hostile acts, and said Kuwait reserves its right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter and to take any measures it deems appropriate to defend its sovereignty.In US Policy Concerning Israel, President Donald Trump said he is “100% confident” Iran will stop enriching uranium and will hand over the enriched material it possesses, stressing that the United States will never allow Iran to possess a nuclear bomb. He cited the blockade as a means to prevent funding and said his relationship with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is excellent, arguing that Iran would have nuclear weapons if the JCPOA had not been abandoned. Separately, in a different assessment, Trump said he was very disappointed with Kurdish opposition groups after US backing, suggesting only some guns with ammunition had been sent and noting that the weapons were supposed to be delivered but were not, while adding that the Kurds usually fight hard when they are paid.In Israeli Domestic Politics, a new Likud poll among active members shows strong loyalty to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with Tali Gottlieb leading at 71.5% approval, followed by Amir Ohana at 69.9%, Moshe Saada at 61.6%, Eli Cohen at 56.6%, and Boaz Bismuth at 54.8%, with the top ten including Amichai Chikli, Israel Katz, Miri Regev, Yariv Levin, and Shlomo Karhi. Ohana is highlighted as the biggest winner, second on the list and the leading candidate to succeed Netanyahu if he does not run, with 26.1%, while Netanyahu remains the controlling figure, with 75.1% of members preferring him for leadership and 74.6% supporting advancing a pardon. In an accompanying opinion piece, the resistible integration of Arabs into the Israeli democratic game is discussed as a political, not purely societal, barrier. The piece argues the glass ceiling is driven by political choices, not only prejudice, noting that forming a coalition requiring more than 61 seats is unlikely amid ongoing elections, and that ostracizing Arab parties signals a shift toward the far right, a dynamic that could empower extremists among Israeli Arabs while polls suggest possible outcomes around 50-52 seats for major blocs.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, the second assailant in the DePaul University campus attack has been arrested. Kasem Noubani, 24, appeared in Cook County Court on counts of aggravated battery and two counts of a hate crime. The same charges had been filed previously against Adam Erkan, who pleaded guilty in 2025. The November 6, 2024, assault targeted Max Long, a US-born IDF lone soldier reservist, and Michael Kaminsky, a first-generation American Jew who were standing with a sign about being Jewish on campus. The attackers, wearing ski masks, struck from behind, leaving Long with a brain injury and Kaminsky needing two surgeries; a DePaul security officer nearby did not intervene at the time.In Israeli Economy and Business, an Israeli-Cypriot cyber company, Targeteam, is set to reveal its Starlink de-anonymizing tool, Stargetz, at the ISS World Europe conference. The company says Stargetz will work alongside its VPN de-anonymizing tool VPNz and will not intercept Starlink communications or breach Starlink encryption to identify users. Targeteam notes a military-background engineering team and keeps many details confidential. Starlink, a SpaceX subsidiary, provides satellite internet, and reports indicate the United States smuggled thousands of Starlink terminals into Iran in January during a crackdown on internet access.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/JewishNews24/54232https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-895926https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-895937https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-895935https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-895945https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-895759https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-895929https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/article-895927

HEADLINES- Iranian recruitment texts target Israelis amid clashes- UAE-Syria trade climbs 132% to $1.4B- Kuwait captures four IRGC operatives infiltratingThe time is now 11:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, Israelis report receive recruitment, threatening text messages from Iran. The Israel Police released a statement calling the messages “attempts by Iranian intelligence elements to recruit Israeli citizens in Israel and abroad.” Messages included offers to buy videos of the Iran war and invitations to “build your future” by contacting Iranian embassies in various countries to work with Iranian intelligence; others tried intimidating Israelis with threats of military action. One message read, “We promised you would soon see stars in the night sky that are not stars… soon you will see the sun in the night sky.” Additional messages claimed Israelis are being exploited by a government with no accountability. The police urged anyone who receives such messages to ignore attached links and files and to block the number.In Regional Impacts, UAE sees rapidly growing trade with Syria, as ties warm. UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Thani Al Zeyoudi said non-oil trade between the United Arab Emirates and Syria reached a record $1.4 billion in 2025, up 132% from the previous year, at the first Syrian-Emirati Investment Forum. He noted the increase opens prospects for expanding bilateral trade as dozens of investment projects spanning tourism, construction, infrastructure, agriculture, aviation and logistics were discussed. The UAE, a strong opponent of Islamist movements across the region, has moved more slowly than Saudi Arabia and Qatar in expanding ties with the new Syrian government, but ties have gradually warmed, with the process accelerating since the start of the Iran war.Syria restores Raqqa oil field in former ISIS stronghold: What to know. Before Syria’s civil war erupted in 2011, national oil production stood at between 400,000 and 500,000 barrels per day, but fell to under 100,000 bpd during the conflict.In Kuwait, four IRGC-linked operatives infiltrated Kuwaiti territory, Foreign Ministry says. Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry announced that four members of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps were captured earlier this month after attempting to infiltrate Bubiyan Island, two of them identifying themselves as Naval Colonels. They were reportedly tasked with carrying out hostile operations within Kuwaiti territory, with the clash occurring as they tried to enter via a fishing vessel and resulting in injury to a member of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces. The Foreign Ministry condemned the actions as a hostile infringement on sovereignty and demanded that Iran halt its illegitimate acts. Kuwait reserved its full right to self-defense in accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter and said it would take measures to defend its sovereignty.In Israeli Domestic Politics, Haredi spiritual leader gives green light for Degel Hatorah to dissolve Knesset over draft law. Rabbi Dov Lando told Degel HaTorah’s Knesset members that they should work toward dissolving the Knesset “as soon as possible” over the haredi conscription bill, a move that could bring early elections ahead of October. The faction said Lando informed members that “We no longer have trust in [Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu. From this point onward, we will do only what is good for haredi Judaism and the yeshiva world.” United Torah Judaism had threatened to dissolve the Knesset after Netanyahu indicated there was no coalition majority to pass the draft bill, according to KAN News. The announcement contributed to a crisis between Degel HaTorah chairman Moshe Gafni and Netanyahu’s office, with Gafni refusing calls from the prime minister.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Tunisian national arrested for planned terror attack on Louvre or Jewish community in Paris. Le Monde, citing the National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office, reported that Dhafer M., an undocumented Tunisian, was arrested May 7 in Paris for driving with a fake license and was held for possession of forged documents. Police found jihadist propaganda videos and hundreds of photos of firearms and knives on his phone, along with messages via secure apps with foreign contacts possibly linked to jihadist groups. One conversation suggested he knew access points to the Louvre and discussed making explosives to plant at the museum; the case was transferred for a preliminary investigation into “participation in a terrorist conspiracy in preparation for crimes against persons.” He appeared in court as the inquiry continued.Second assailant arrested in connection to vicious assault at DePaul University. Kasem Noubani, 24, appeared in Cook County Court on multiple charges, including aggravated battery and two counts of a hate crime. The same charges were filed earlier against Adam Erkan, who pleaded guilty in 2025. The November 6, 2024 incident on DePaul University’s campus involved two Jewish students, Max Long and Michael Kaminsky, who were approached by Erkan and Noubani while they held a sign inviting discussion about being Jewish and serving in the IDF. Erkan attacked Kaminsky and Long from behind, both wearing ski masks. Long sustained a brain injury and a cyst near his spinal cord; Kaminsky required two surgeries. A DePaul public security officer stationed nearby did not intervene.In Israeli Economy and Business, Israeli-Cypriot cyber company to unveil Starlink de-anonymizing tool - report. Targeteam, a joint Israeli-C Cypriot cyber company, is to unveil a tool called Stargetz at the ISS World Europe conference, designed to de-anonymize Starlink users and to operate alongside its VPN de-anonymizing tool VPNz. Targeteam says Stargetz does not intercept traffic or breach Starlink encryption to identify users and aims to avoid legal disputes over use. The company’s engineers reportedly come from military and elite Israeli cyber sectors such as Cognyte and UTX Technologies, with many details kept private. Starlink, a SpaceX satellite-internet network, has been a focus of attention, including reports that the United States smuggled thousands of Starlink terminals into Iran in January as the Iranian regime cut internet service during crackdowns.Israel entered Hamas war with weakened domestic weapons-production capacity, probe finds. A State Comptroller report by Matanyahu Englman found that Israel began the current multi-front war with weakened domestic weapons-production capabilities, gaps in certain stockpiles, and no fully budgeted policy to preserve domestic arms production lines. Over the past two decades, some raw materials and production capabilities used to manufacture weapons were damaged or lost, and some production lines weakened due to cheaper foreign procurement. The issue grew sharper after the outbreak of the war, as IDF demand rose while embargoes or restrictions from some friendly countries affected supplies, at a time of rising global demand for such materials.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-895916https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/05/uae-sees-rapidly-growing-trade-syria-ties-warmhttps://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/05/syria-restores-raqqa-oil-field-former-isis-stronghold-what-knowhttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-895926https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-895922https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-895936https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-895929https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/article-895927https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-895923

HEADLINESIranian recruitment texts shock Israelis, police sayUNICEF: 70 Palestinian children killed since 2025Kuwait captures IRGC infiltrators on BubiyanThe time is now 10:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, Israeli authorities say they received recruitment and threatening text messages from Iranian intelligence elements. The Israel Police released a statement describing the messages as “attempts by Iranian intelligence elements to recruit Israeli citizens in Israel and abroad.” Messages included offers to buy videos of the Iran war and invitations to “build your future” by contacting Iranian embassies in various countries to work with Iranian intelligence, while others threatened military action. One message warned that Israelis would soon see “stars in the night sky” that are not stars and “the sun in the night sky.” Additional messages claimed Israelis are being exploited by a government with no accountability. Police urged recipients to ignore all attached links and files and to block the number.In Regional Impacts, UNICEF says seventy children have been killed in the occupied Palestinian territories excluding Gaza since early 2025, roughly one per week, with over 800 injured. Most of those killed or injured in the West Bank and East Jerusalem were hit by live ammunition, though some were stabbed, beaten or pepper-sprayed. James Elder of UNICEF called these incidents part of a sustained pattern of the worst kind of violations against children. He noted that 93% of the children who have died since January 2025 were killed by Israeli forces, with the remainder victims of settler attacks, unexploded ordnance or accidental hits by Palestinian forces. The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Human rights groups have described a renewed surge in violence against Palestinians by Israeli settlers and soldiers since 2023, and most countries deem Israel’s settlements on West Bank land illegal, a view Israel disputes.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry said four members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps were captured earlier this month after trying to infiltrate Bubiyan Island, Kuwait’s largest island. Six armed Revolutionary Guardsmen were involved, and one Kuwaiti Armed Forces member was injured. Kuwait said it reserves the full right to self-defense under the UN Charter and vowed to defend its sovereignty, with the Kuwaiti Navy and Coast Guard on high alert. Iran has yet to officially respond.Also in the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Israel and UAE: A brothers-in-arms alliance against Iran’s growing threat – an opinion piece notes that, on May 4, Iran fired missiles and drones into the UAE. It highlights that Israeli personnel operated Iron Dome to intercept the missiles from within the UAE, marking the first time Israeli defense technology was deployed operationally on foreign soil. The collaboration under the Abraham Accords is described as a rapidly maturing strategic partnership driven by a shared view of Iran’s threat, with early deployments and ongoing cooperation that has deepened despite limited media coverage.In US Policy Concerning Israel, President Trump has posted messages to Iran on Truth Social this morning. He has asserted that Iran will stop enriching uranium with “100%” certainty, claiming Iranians told him they would transfer the enriched material to the United States. He has been posting about Iran on Truth Social, with multiple messages to Iran issued this morning.In Israeli Domestic Politics, a state audit finds Israel entered the Hamas war with weakened domestic weapons-production capacity. The State Comptroller, Matanyahu Englman, said Israel's ability to preserve domestic production of weapons, raw materials, components, and related infrastructure was impaired over two decades, with stockpiles and production lines weakened or lost. Embargoes or restrictions from some friendly countries during the war compounded the challenge, while global demand for materials rose alongside the conflict, and the Israeli military did not comment on the findings.Also in Israeli Domestic Politics, Degel HaTorah’s spiritual leader Rabbi Dov Lando gave a green light to move toward dissolving the Knesset as soon as possible over the haredi conscription bill, potentially paving the way for early elections. Opposition leader Yair Lapid urged preparations to dissolve the Knesset next week, and Degel HaTorah’s stance followed reports of a rift with Prime Minister Netanyahu after it was said there was no coalition majority to pass the controversial draft law.Finally in Israeli Domestic Politics, NGO Monitor founder Gerald M. Steinberg will step down after 25 years, with Olga Deutsch advancing to CEO and president in the group’s first leadership transition. Steinberg will become president emeritus, and Deutsch will take over on January 1, 2027, guiding NGO Monitor into its next chapter as the organization continues research and advocacy on human rights and Israel-related policy.In Israeli Economy and Business, an Israeli-Cypriot cyber company is set to unveil a Starlink de-anonymizing tool called Stargetz, designed to operate alongside a VPN de-anonymizing tool named VPNz. Targeteam says Stargetz does not intercept traffic or breach Starlink encryption, aiming to identify users without compromising communications. The company reportedly staffs engineers with backgrounds in military and elite Israeli cyber firms, while keeping team details private. Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet, has become a backdrop to ongoing debates about access and surveillance, and the United States is noted as having smuggled thousands of Starlink terminals into Iran earlier this year as part of broader internet access efforts.Israeli startup Frame Security has raised $50 million in a financing round led by Index Ventures, Team8, and Picture Capital, with participation from Wiz CEO Assaf Rappaport and Elad Gil. Frame is building an AI-driven platform to defend organizations against AI-powered social engineering and deepfake attacks, automating security awareness and training. The platform aims to empower employees as the strongest line of defense, offering realistic attack simulations and personalized guidance across roles within an organization. Frame’s founders are Tal Shlomo and Sharon Shmueli, veterans of Israel’s elite cyber Unit 8200.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-895916https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/05/unicef-says-70-children-killed-west-bank-and-east-jerusalem-2025https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-895926https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-895776https://t.me/newssil/201458https://t.me/DefenderDome/20702https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76209https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-895923https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-895922https://www.jpost.com/j-spot/article-895914https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/article-895927https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/tech-and-start-ups/article-895919

HEADLINESIran weighs 90% enrichment for weaponsHamas faces its gravest Gaza challengeHezbollah missile misses Israeli jet IDF respondsThe time is now 9:02 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In Iranian Retaliation, Iran has signaled a potential move to enrich uranium to weapons-grade in the event of further attacks, with a spokesman for the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee indicating 90% enrichment could be considered and would be reviewed by lawmakers. Israel has sent Iron Dome air defense batteries to the United Arab Emirates. Israeli citizens have received recruitment and intimidation text messages attributed to Iranian intelligence, including offers to buy videos of the Iran war and invitations to contact Iranian embassies to work with Iranian intelligence; some messages threatened military action. The Israel Police described the messages as attempts by Iranian intelligence elements to recruit Israeli citizens in Israel and abroad, and urged recipients to ignore all links and files and to block the numbers.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Hamas’s grip on Gaza appears to be weakening, with analysts saying Hamas may be facing its most serious internal challenge since taking control in 2007. Local testimonies describe growing rifts between Hamas and Gaza’s population as war, economic collapse, and humanitarian hardship deepen; footage from the funeral of Khalil al-Hayya’s son circulated showing unusually low attendance. Hezbollah fired a surface-to-air missile at an Israeli Air Force fighter jet; the missile missed, and the IDF described it as a primitive weapon. The Israeli military said it followed up by firing at the attacker, who fled on a motorcycle, and it remained unclear whether the assailant was killed.In Israeli Domestic Politics, Degel HaTorah’s spiritual leader Rabbi Dov Lando gave the green light to pursue the dissolution of the Knesset over the haredi conscription bill. The move comes after reports that United Torah Judaism threatened to dissolve the Knesset, prompting tensions with Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office and within the party; Lando’s office later said lawmakers were meeting with him. In Netanyahu’s trial, cross-examination in Case 4000 ended, and prosecutors have moved to Case 2000, the Mozes bribery case; Netanyahu has testified for more than 80 hearing days and remains in the process, with several additional days anticipated, and he has not responded to President Herzog’s offer to mediate plea bargain talks. NGO Monitor founder Gerald M. Steinberg will step down from day-to-day management, becoming president emeritus; Olga Deutsch will become CEO and president in the organization’s first leadership transition, effective January 1, 2027. Israel’s Foreign Ministry denounced the New York Times op-ed for its timing and noted that the Times had not published the Civil Commission’s findings into Hamas’s systemic violence, calling the piece biased.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Noam Bettan shines in Eurovision rehearsal as Israel faces antisemitism campaign. Israel’s Eurovision representative delivered a confident, emotional rendition of “Michelle” during a jury rehearsal in Vienna, performed inside a large rotating structure with dancer Lihi Freud; the staging created a dynamic visual effect with mirrors. Jurors in 15 countries watched in real time, and the real-time scoring from this rehearsal will contribute to the final result. Viewers in the Eurovision press room praised Bettan, and observers noted he delivered one of his strongest performances to date, with Finland and Greece among the favorites.In Uplifting News, a study presented at Tel Aviv University finds that a supermajority of Israeli Arab 12th-grade students support volunteering for non-security national service. The survey shows 75.8% in favor, with 46.9% expressing strong support. Among men, 75.3% support, and among women, 77.2% support the idea. Among Israeli Arabs aged 18-34, 69.1% also support the concept. A large majority, 77.2%, support Arab parties joining the next coalition, and 43.3% believe the parties should join a coalition led by parties across the political spectrum.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/podcast/jpost-headlines/article-895920https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895916https://t.me/selena_updates/63651https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-895873https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-895906https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-895922https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/benjamin-netanyahu/article-895917https://www.jpost.com/j-spot/article-895914https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895908https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-895904https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895902

HEADLINESIraq PMF deploys near Najaf desertIsraeli Arab youths back nonsecurity serviceBettan dazzles in Vienna rehearsal amid antisemitismThe time is now 8:01 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, after a Wall Street Journal report about a secret Israeli base in Iraq, Baghdad has moved to show force. The Iraqi government and the Popular Mobilization Forces, a coalition of Iranian-backed militias, say they launched a large-scale operation to impose sovereignty in the Najaf desert and to project a presence along the southern border. The PMF includes groups such as Kataib Hezbollah and other factions that are sanctioned by the United States, and their deployment follows months of activity along the Syrian border. Iraq initially denied the base’s existence, with later reports of US warnings to stay away from a southern area in March, an airstrike tied to the site, and social-media rumors of casualties. The move signals Baghdad’s effort to respond to the evolving story and to demonstrate power in the region, with the PMF pushing to deploy forces to the south.In the Israeli Domestic Politics, a new study finds broad support among Israeli Arab youth for non-security national service and for Arab parties joining the next coalition. The Moshe Dayan Center’s Konrad Adenauer Program for Jewish-Arab Cooperation found that 75.8% of Israeli Arab 12th-grade students support volunteering for national service not related to security, with 46.9% expressing strong support. The data show little gender difference, with 75.3% of male students and 77.2% of female students in favor. Among Israeli Arabs aged 18-34, 69.1% also support the idea. The study also examined attitudes toward Arab parties in the upcoming Knesset elections, with 77.2% saying those parties should join the coalition and 43.3% believing parties should join a coalition led by parties from any part of the political spectrum.In the Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Noam Bettan shines in Eurovision rehearsal as Israel faces antisemitism campaign. Israel’s Eurovision representative delivered a confident and emotional performance of “Michelle” during a jury rehearsal in Vienna ahead of the 2026 semifinal. Professional juries in 15 countries watched and will score in real time, with the rehearsal results accounting for half of the final score for advancement to the final. Bettan performed inside a large rotating structure that resembled a diamond, with dancer Lihi Freud, and mirrors creating a dynamic visual effect. The Israeli delegation said Bettan gave one of his finest performances to date, and international observers predicted a strong showing, with Finland and Greece noted as favorites.In the Uplifting News, Winners for Life 2026: “Hasidut Be-Class” takes the stage in Jerusalem. The tribute concert at Sultan’s Pool supports Israel’s emergency response system and raises funds for Magen David Adom to restock emergency supplies and renew medical equipment. The entire production is funded by an anonymous donor, ensuring that all ticket proceeds go to the cause. The event builds on last year’s sold-out Caesarea performance and emphasizes the resilience of Israel’s emergency services amid ongoing challenges.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-895910https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-895906https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895902https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-895904https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-895292

HEADLINESUS eyes three bases in GreenlandHezbollah fires at IDF jet near LitaniIron Dome to UAE to counter IranThe time is now 7:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In US negotiating establishment of new bases in Greenland in high level talks with Denmark - report, officials say the United States is seeking to expand its military footprint in Greenland, a semi-autonomous part of Denmark. The discussions include plans to open three new bases in southern Greenland, the BBC reported citing officials familiar with the talks. A source familiar with the negotiations told the BBC that the US has suggested the bases be formally designated as US sovereign territory. Denmark’s foreign ministry confirmed the talks and said there is an ongoing diplomatic track with the United States. The bases would primarily focus on surveillance of potential Russian and Chinese activity in the northern Atlantic, in the GIUK Gap between Greenland, Iceland, and the United Kingdom. The White House confirmed involvement in high-level talks and expressed optimism about the direction, while declining to comment on details.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Hezbollah fired a surface-to-air missile at an IDF fighter jet, a move the IDF described as a primitive weapon that nevertheless could alter future air operations if replicated. The missile missed the aircraft, and the IDF said it followed up by firing on the Hezbollah fighter who fled on a motorcycle; it remained unclear whether the operator was killed. Hezbollah’s leadership then escalated rhetoric, with Naim Qassem pledging that the group would not surrender and calling for Lebanon to withdraw from direct negotiations with Israel, arguing that the talks only benefit Israel. He also asserted that the United States and Israel seek to annex parts of Lebanon as part of a Greater Israel and credited Iran for shaping Hezbollah’s posture. In the broader frontline, the IDF said its Golani Brigade advanced toward the Litani River, roughly 10 kilometers from the border, employing robots at points in the operation. Over three days of fighting, the IDF said about 15 Hezbollah fighters were killed in this phase, bringing total Hezbollah fatalities in recent operations to around 70, alongside the destruction of roughly 1,000 terror infrastructure items. The IDF noted the Golani Brigade has suffered casualties, including three soldiers and three more connected to combined aerial-ground operations, over the past two months. Separately, Kuwaiti authorities said four individuals linked to Iran’s IRGC attempted a maritime infiltration on Bubiyan Island on May 1; a clash left one Kuwaiti serviceman injured, and two other members fled the scene. The region also saw a flurry of unmanned aerial vehicle activity with the IDF reporting drones believed to have come from Yemen and multiple interceptions over Eilat, with some reports questioning whether the Houthis or Iran were behind the launches, and others noting the drones were launched from the east. Authorities stressed that the exact origin of several UAVs remained under scrutiny.In US Policy Concerning Israel, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee confirmed that Israel sent Iron Dome batteries and personnel to the United Arab Emirates to bolster defenses against Iranian attacks during the Iran-related conflict. Huckabee highlighted the strong ties under the Abraham Accords and cited continued high levels of air and business cooperation, including UAE-Israel flight activity in the days after October 7. He also suggested that President Trump may visit Israel before the upcoming elections, reflecting ongoing US engagement in regional security dynamics.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Israel’s Eurovision entry Noam Bettan delivered a confident and emotional rehearsal of the song “Michelle” in Vienna, as juries from 15 countries watched live. Bettan performed inside a rotating diamond-shaped structure with dancer Lihi Freud, and the staging used mirrors to create a dynamic visual effect. The performance is central to the jury portion of the competition, which accounts for half of the final score, with Israel hoping to advance to the final as jurors respond to the rendition. International observers noted that Finland and Greece are among the favorites, while the Israeli delegation underscored that Bettan’s performance stands out as a strong showing in the lead-up to the semifinal.In Israeli Economy and Business, the IDF is moving to establish a factory to produce FPV “suicide” drones, aiming to involve about 200 haredi soldiers. Army Radio reported that the project would deploy within the IDF’s Technology and Logistics Directorate, with initial recruits joining in June after a technician training course. The factory is envisioned to supply thousands of drones within two months and tens of thousands per month in the future, reducing reliance on externally produced units. FPV drones can be used both for attack and for intercepting other drones in drone-on-drone engagements, marking a notable shift in domestic capabilities in response to threats from Hezbollah and related groups.In Uplifting News, Winners for Life 2026: “Hasidut Be-Class” takes the stage in Jerusalem, a tribute concert at Sultan’s Pool aimed at supporting Israel’s emergency response system. The production, funded by an anonymous donor, seeks to raise funds to restock Magen David Adom’s life-saving equipment and medical supplies, underscoring a national effort to bolster resilience in the face of ongoing security challenges. The event follows a prior sold-out engagement and emphasizes the role of music and philanthropy in sustaining emergency services for 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/international/article-895883https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-895906https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-895900https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-895888https://t.me/selena_updates/63650https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76206https://t.me/abualiexpress/122189https://t.me/StandWithUsBreakingNews/8160https://t.me/newssil/201443https://t.me/ILtoday/19053https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76205https://t.me/abualiexpress/122188https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76204https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76184https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-895897https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-895904https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-895890https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-895292

HEADLINESUS Denmark Plan Three Greenland BasesIDF Opens Drone Factory Advances at LitaniIsrael Tightens Law of Return Halachic ConversionThe time is now 6:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.In US Military Role, the United States and Denmark are negotiating an expanded military presence in Greenland, with plans for three new bases in southern Greenland. A source familiar with the discussions says the United States has proposed that the bases be formally designated as US sovereign territory. The White House has said officials are optimistic about the direction of the talks and are involved at a high level, while declining to comment on specifics. Denmark’s foreign ministry has confirmed the talks. The bases would primarily focus on surveillance of potential Russian and Chinese activity in the northern Atlantic along the GIUK Gap between Greenland, Iceland and the United Kingdom.In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the IDF is moving to bolster its drone capability by establishing a factory to produce FPV suicide drones staffed by about 200 haredi soldiers, with the first recruits joining in June. The project, housed in the IDF’s Technology and Logistics Directorate, aims to supply thousands of drones within two months and tens of thousands per month in the future, to support both attack and defense through drone intercepts. Separately, the Golani Brigade recently advanced to the Litani River, roughly 10 kilometers from the border, using robots for portions of the operation; about 15 Hezbollah fighters were killed over three days, bringing the total in the current campaign to around 70, and roughly 1,000 items of terror infrastructure have been destroyed. A separate account described a secret raid in which Golani troops crossed the Litani for three days, facing Hezbollah forces, with explosive drones targeting them and invasion tunnels prepared for attacks on northern Israel uncovered and destroyed.In US Policy Concerning Israel, Israel sent Iron Dome batteries and personnel to the United Arab Emirates to assist in defense against Iranian attacks during the Iran-related conflict, reflecting ongoing cooperation under the Abraham Accords. The UAE has continued air links with Israel, with flights operating after October 7, and there has been speculation about a visit by President Trump to Israel before the elections.In Israeli Domestic Politics, a proposed amendment to Israel’s Law of Return would require recognition of conversion for citizenship purposes to be based on halachic (Orthodox) standards. Supporters say the measure realigns the law with its original aim and would curb conversion practices that some view as shortcuts; opponents warn it could exclude Reform and Conservative conversions recognized by courts and state practice. Lawmakers, including Simcha Rothman, frame the proposal as restoring traditional standards and addressing so-called conversion hopping. Separately, the High Court will hear petitions against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to appoint Major-General Roman Gofman as Mossad chief, a case that has brought judicial scrutiny to a sensitive security appointment. The petitions seek either to block the appointment or require reconsideration, with the Elmakayes affair cited as a central element, involving allegations related to the use of a minor in an unauthorized IDF-linked operation connected to the unit Gofman commanded.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, anti-Israel protesters rallied outside a Brooklyn synagogue, waving Hezbollah and PLO flags and clashing with local Jews during an Israeli real estate event outside Young Israel of Midwood. Protesters accused organizers of promoting the sale of “stolen Palestinian land,” while counter-protesters argued the demonstration targeted a Jewish neighborhood and a house of worship. Police separated the opposing groups, and several people were detained in the ensuing confrontations.In Uplifting News, Israel’s Iron Dome defense system has been described as about 98% to 99% effective against missiles since the Hamas and Hezbollah rocket campaigns. The system’s interceptor stockpile is reportedly ample, and analysts say the defense has helped prevent widespread disruption to daily life and the economy, underscoring the importance of continued US funding and support for the program.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-895883https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-895890https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-895888https://www.ynetnews.com/article/h1kxzul1fehttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-895897https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895879https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895870https://worldisraelnews.com/anti-israel-protesters-rally-outside-brooklyn-synagogue-wave-hezbollah-flags/https://worldisraelnews.com/iron-dome-nearly-99-effective-against-incoming-missiles-maker-rafaels-chairman-says/

HEADLINES- Israel strikes 45 Hezbollah sites along Litani- Law of Return faces conversion controversy- Ninth charged in UK synagogue arson waveThe time is now 5:01 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, Israeli forces remain active along the Litani River in southern Lebanon, with Golani troops reported operating near Litani and the army saying it has achieved operational control in parts of the Litani corridor. Over the last 24 hours, the IDF struck about 45 Hezbollah infrastructures across southern Lebanon, including headquarters, observation posts, assembly points, and buildings used to direct operations against Israeli forces and the State of Israel. About 10 warehouses used by Hezbollah to store weapons intended to harm IDF forces were attacked. The Air Force hit missile launchers and eliminated terrorists who posed a threat to IDF forces operating south of the front defense line. The Air Force also intercepted two suspicious aerial targets in the area of operations. Hezbollah rockets were fired at IDF forces overnight, with the projectiles landing in open areas and no casualties reported. There were reports of ground control north of Litani, cited by Israeli military writers based on Arab sources referencing axis 2. Separately, a dud Israeli bomb was evacuated from a building in Dahieh, Beirut.In Israeli Domestic Politics, a proposed amendment to the Law of Return has revived a long-running debate over who qualifies for citizenship based on conversion, with religious coalition lawmakers arguing the bill would restore halachic standards for recognition. The measure could exclude Reform and Conservative conversions that have gained recognition through courts and state practice. Backers describe the legislation as a correction to drift from the law’s original purpose of aiding Jewish communities in the diaspora, and they argue it would curb conversion hopping cases. Opponents say the change would give the religious establishment greater control over Jewish identity and limit recognition of non-Orthodox conversions. In a separate development, large police forces conducted a morning raid, arresting dozens of suspects on arms trafficking and dangerous drugs offenses following an undercover operation by the Northern District police. During testimony in court, Prime Minister Netanyahu received an envelope, read it, and said, “I must leave. I must.” In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, a Wanstead man has been charged with arson of a former London synagogue amid a wave of attacks on Jewish, Israeli, and Iranian dissident sites in the UK. Moses Edwards, 45, was charged on Tuesday after an earlier arrest alongside a 52-year-old woman who was released on bail. The building sustained minor damage to gates, and no injuries were reported. The synagogue had been in the process of sale to a local Somali Muslim organization and was listed as sold earlier this year. Edwards is the ninth person charged in the wave, with around 33 people arrested in total. The wave began with ambulance arsons in Golders Green on March 23, followed by an attempted arson at the Finchley Reform Synagogue on April 15; on the same day, suspects reportedly threw a burning container into the car park of Iran International, where the fire died out.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/newssil/201435https://t.me/newssil/201432https://t.me/selena_updates/63626https://t.me/abualiexpress/122179https://t.me/abualiexpress/122178https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895879https://t.me/newssil/201431https://t.me/newssil/201430https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-895886

HEADLINESSystemic Oct 7 abuse report demands accountabilityIsrael approves Oct 7 attackers tribunalsCeasefire cracks as Trump weighs Iran actionThe 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, ...A two-year independent investigation into the sexual and gender-based crimes committed during the October 7 massacre and against hostages in Hamas captivity argues that the next stage is not only documenting the crimes but determining how they can be prosecuted.The Civil Commission on October 7th Crimes by Hamas Against Women and Children, led by Dr. Cochav Elkayam-Levy, published its report, presenting what it describes as the most extensive evidentiary record compiled to date on the sexual atrocities of October 7, 2023, and the captivity in Gaza.The report’s central contribution is not only its conclusion that sexual and gender-based violence was systemic, widespread, and integral to the attack, but its move from recognition to prosecution.It identifies 13 distinct patterns of abuse, including gang-rape, sexual violence intended to terrorize families, and coercive acts among relatives, supported by more than 430 testimonies, 1,800 hours of visual analysis, and 10,000 photographs, with the 300-page document aiming to form a historical archive of evidence.A separate editorial argues that denial must end and accountability must be pursued, noting the archive of evidence—430 testimonies, 1,800 hours of visual analysis, and 10,000 photographs—along with 13 distinct patterns of abuse and the finding that the violence was systematic and deliberate.The commission’s findings are echoed by another description of the report as a watershed moment, detailing gang-rape and kinocide, and saying the work will stand as a foundation for the archive of images and testimonies.In broader regional developments, Pakistan reportedly allowed Iranian aircraft to hide at Nur Khan Air Base near Rawalpindi while presenting itself as a diplomatic intermediary, with US officials citing CBS News on the matter. Iran is said to have moved additional aircraft to Afghanistan, actions described as shielding assets amid expanding hostilities.In Israel, lawmakers advanced a legal framework to prosecute those responsible for the October 7 attack. The Knesset approved special military tribunals for about 300 terrorists, potentially subject to the death penalty, under the 1950 Law for the Prevention of Genocide. The measure passed overwhelmingly, and supporters say it delivers justice for the gravest assault in Israel’s history.In US Policy Concerning Israel, ...President Donald Trump is reportedly weighing a return to active hostilities against Iran as the fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran shows signs of collapse.The ceasefire, first announced on April 7 and later extended to support negotiations, has not produced a lasting settlement. The Strait of Hormuz remains closed by Iran, disrupting global supply chains, lifting oil prices, and threatening key sectors.CNN reports that Trump, who previously signaled patience for a breakthrough, now appears frustrated with Tehran’s approach and is contemplating renewed military action.On Truth Social, the president wrote that he is tired of what he calls Iranian “game playing,” reflecting a shift in patience as diplomatic talks stall.In Israeli Domestic Politics, ...The High Court of Justice is set to hear petitions on Tuesday challenging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to appoint Major-General Roman Gofman as Mossad chief. Gofman, currently Netanyahu’s military secretary, was approved last month by the Advisory Committee for Senior Appointments and is slated to take office on June 2 for a five-year term.The petitions, filed by the Movement for Quality Government in Israel, Forum Homat Magen LeIsrael, and Ori Elmakayes, ask the court to block or reconsider the appointment. The case centers on the Elmakayes affair, involving allegations of using a minor in an unauthorized IDF-linked influence operation tied to the 210th Bashan Division; the attorney-general contends the appointment cannot stand due to integrity concerns.In Jerusalem, hundreds of young immigrants attended the Olim Al Madim expo, where they received guidance on IDF enlistment, lone-soldier support, benefits, and housing as they prepare for mandatory service.Brazilian activist Thiago Avila returned to Sao Paulo after detention in Israel, where he alleges torture and witnessed abuses of Palestinian prisoners during ten days in custody following the flotilla interception. Avila and Spanish national Abu Keshek faced charges including aiding the enemy and contact with a terrorist organization before being released and deported; Israel has dismissed the accusations, according to the report.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-895838https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-895834https://www.jpost.com/podcast/jpost-podcast/article-895652https://worldisraelnews.com/pakistan-helped-iran-hid-military-aircraft-from-us-israeli-strikes-report/https://worldisraelnews.com/modern-day-nazis-oct-7th-terrorists-to-face-military-tribunal/https://worldisraelnews.com/trump-weighing-renewed-military-action-against-iran/https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-895870https://www.ynetnews.com/magazine/article/bklhcux1mghttps://www.jpost.com/international/article-895856

HEADLINES- Israeli forces wipe Hezbollah cell, 350 terrorists- Former Mossad chief: Netanyahu unfit- EU sanctions Israelis, Jewish groups with HamasThe 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, Israeli forces eliminated a Hezbollah launch cell that attempted to transfer a rocket launcher on a truck after firing rockets at IDF soldiers in Southern Lebanon. The Israel Defense Forces also said that since the ceasefire understandings began, it has eliminated more than 350 Hezbollah terrorists and struck over 1,100 targets across southern Lebanon.In Israeli Domestic Politics, a former senior Mossad official harshly criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu this morning, saying the prime minister proved to Israelis yesterday that the stories about him are true and that he is not fit.In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, the European Union sanctioned Israeli citizens and Jewish organizations in Judea and Samaria in the same package as Hamas officials, a move critics call morally bankrupt. Placing Jewish community builders beside the architects and defenders of October 7 creates a grotesque false symmetry, as Europe argues Israel is fighting the same Iranian-backed terror network that threatens the West.In Uplifting News, an eight-year-old boy visiting the Ramon Crater region found an over 1,700-year-old statue fragment hidden in rocks. The fragment measures about 6 by 6 centimeters and depicts a partial human figure wrapped in carefully carved folds of fabric. Dor Wolynitz from Rehovot discovered the piece during a family trip with a paratrooper reservist team, and he handed it to the National Treasures Department, receiving a certificate from the Israel Antiquities Authority for his good citizenship.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/ILtoday/19050https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/76179https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1320291https://t.me/ILtoday/19051https://www.jpost.com/archaeology/article-895768