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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Noa Levi
1000 episodes
1 day ago
Stay informed, no matter how busy you are. Reporter Noa Levi of Israel Today: Ongoing War Report brings you the most crucial updates from Israel every hour. Sourced directly from leading news channels and top-rated RSS feeds, our team distills extensive news coverage from 'Telegram Channel Israel Today', 'Haaretz', 'JPost.com', 'The Times of Israel', 'Ynet' and more, into concise 2-3 minute summaries. From breaking headlines to political shifts and cultural happenings, get a comprehensive snapshot of the nation's heartbeat without the fluff. Subscribe now and never miss a beat from the heart of Israel.

Sources:
  • Telegram Channel Israel Today
  • Telegram Channel Stand With Us Breaking News
  • Telegram Channel News Before Everyone
  • Front - Globes
  • Haaretz latest headlines
  • JPost.com - Homepage & Breaking
  • Maariv.co.il - News
  • The Times of Israel
  • Israel Hayom
  • ynet

DISCLAIMER DISCLAIMER DISCLAIMER
This podcast's content is generated using advanced artificial intelligence techniques and aims to summarize information from various sources. It's important to note that while the AI strives for accuracy, it might not always provide an exact representation of the news. There's potential for unintended inaccuracies or omissions. The content provides an overview of discussions over the last hour and serves as a digest for those seeking a concise update. For comprehensive and direct information, please refer to primary news sources.

mini-news-jingle by Code Box and news-end-signature by Mansardian used under CC BY 4.0.
Code generating this podcast is available under the MIT license and can be found here: https://github.com/mplawner/hourlynews.
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RSS
All content for Israel Today: Ongoing War Report is the property of Noa Levi and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Stay informed, no matter how busy you are. Reporter Noa Levi of Israel Today: Ongoing War Report brings you the most crucial updates from Israel every hour. Sourced directly from leading news channels and top-rated RSS feeds, our team distills extensive news coverage from 'Telegram Channel Israel Today', 'Haaretz', 'JPost.com', 'The Times of Israel', 'Ynet' and more, into concise 2-3 minute summaries. From breaking headlines to political shifts and cultural happenings, get a comprehensive snapshot of the nation's heartbeat without the fluff. Subscribe now and never miss a beat from the heart of Israel.

Sources:
  • Telegram Channel Israel Today
  • Telegram Channel Stand With Us Breaking News
  • Telegram Channel News Before Everyone
  • Front - Globes
  • Haaretz latest headlines
  • JPost.com - Homepage & Breaking
  • Maariv.co.il - News
  • The Times of Israel
  • Israel Hayom
  • ynet

DISCLAIMER DISCLAIMER DISCLAIMER
This podcast's content is generated using advanced artificial intelligence techniques and aims to summarize information from various sources. It's important to note that while the AI strives for accuracy, it might not always provide an exact representation of the news. There's potential for unintended inaccuracies or omissions. The content provides an overview of discussions over the last hour and serves as a digest for those seeking a concise update. For comprehensive and direct information, please refer to primary news sources.

mini-news-jingle by Code Box and news-end-signature by Mansardian used under CC BY 4.0.
Code generating this podcast is available under the MIT license and can be found here: https://github.com/mplawner/hourlynews.
Show more...
Daily News
News
Episodes (20/1000)
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 20:05
HEADLINES
Saudi loans fund JF-17 jets
Netanyahu launches Negev plan for settlements
Rafah crossing decision pending amid Gaza violence

The time is now 3:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are moving to convert about two billion dollars of Saudi loans into a JF-17 fighter jet deal, according to two Pakistani sources. The discussions underscore deepening military cooperation between the two allies, coming months after they signed a mutual defense pact. The talks reportedly center on supplying JF-17 Thunder jets, a light multirole aircraft developed by Pakistan and China and produced domestically, with the overall package described as around four billion dollars for jets and an additional two billion for equipment. The development arrives as Pakistan faces acute financial strain and Saudi Arabia reconfigures its security partnerships amid questions about US commitments in the Middle East. Pakistan’s air chief Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu traveled to Saudi Arabia for talks on military cooperation, highlighting the practical steps being taken to operationalize the defense relationship.

In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a national project to “return the Negev to Israel,” outlining a multi-year plan to expand settlements, strengthen border communities, curb organized crime, and reinforce governance in the south. The tour, conducted with Defense Minister Israel Katz, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and senior officials, also included briefings on weapons smuggling and border enforcement. The plan envisions substantial demographic and civil development growth alongside intensified security measures, coordinated with the Defense Ministry over a five-year horizon. Netanyahu framed the initiative as a comprehensive effort to restore governance in the Negev while pursuing settlement expansion and economic investment, stressing the link between security needs and civilian development.

Across the Gaza front, Israeli and Palestinian officials reported continued violence as the security situation tests the durability of the ceasefire. Hamas rockets targeted areas where Israeli forces operate in northern Gaza, described by Israeli authorities as a violation of the truce. In response, Israeli forces and Shin Bet carried out strikes against a senior Hamas operative involved in planning attacks against Israeli forces in the area. The incident comes as senior officials weigh the reopening of the Rafah crossing to facilitate humanitarian traffic and civilian movement, with final approval still pending within the political leadership.

Iranian authorities continue to confront broad-scale street protests that have persisted for months, with many observers describing the current period as a defining moment for the Islamic Republic. Demonstrations have drawn international attention and elicited a range of official responses, with reform opponents and others using varied tactics in what some describe as a still-unresolved political crisis. The trajectory of these protests remains uncertain, with domestic dynamics and international reactions shaping the regional balance of power and stability.

Israeli scientists have reported a major genetic breakthrough in brain development. A collaborative study from Hebrew University and partners used large-scale CRISPR gene editing to map which genes are essential as embryonic stem cells differentiate into neural cells. The researchers identified 331 genes required for neuron generation, with findings suggesting timing during neural development influences autism risk and related disorders. The work also describes a newly linked neurodevelopmental condition tied to mutations in the PEDS1 gene and provides an open online database to enable ongoing research. The results offer new avenues for understanding the biological roots of...
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1 hour ago
6 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 19:09
HEADLINES
Gaza info warfare hinges on transparency
Knesset backs Oct 7 remembrance day
Saudi loans convert to Pakistan JF-17 deal

The time is now 2:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

This is a 2:00 PM briefing on the latest developments across the Middle East and related global contexts, with emphasis on Israeli security concerns, regional dynamics, and how these stories intersect with international perspectives.

A new think-tank analysis on Gaza argues that information warfare and media management have become decisive components of modern conflict. The report contends that even aggressive efforts to minimize civilian harm can be offset by a loss of diplomatic support if the information environment is not actively managed. It highlights Gaza as a case where failing to address the information domain swiftly can undermine military gains and constrain operational flexibility. The authors acknowledge Israel’s safety justifications for restricting independent journalistic access in Gaza, while concluding that a near-total ban on reporting crowded out transparency, feeding adversarial narratives and leaving room for misinformation to spread. The suggestion offered is a more nuanced approach: limited, carefully screened embeds with clear conditions, escorted humanitarian access, and a transparent media accreditation framework that includes a spectrum of outlets. The report also calls for Western militaries to enhance rapid, on-scene public communications—briefings tailored to analytical audiences, human-interest storytelling for the broader public, and culturally attuned framing for different audiences—so verified information can be disseminated within minutes of incidents. It stresses the need for counter-disinformation capabilities, including open-source image forensics and coordinated channels to present authentic content that can counter fabricated material and deepfakes. The analysis notes that in Gaza, ground verification has often been challenging, complicating casualty tallies and incident attributions, and it points to the importance of timely, multi-layered messaging rather than single-signal disclosures. The report also surveys tactical and technical shifts in the Gaza battlefield, including the growing use of drones for reconnaissance and strikes by both sides, the subterranean network of Hamas tunnels, and the integration of special operations forces with conventional units to create tempo and information advantage. It warns that Western forces must consider which lessons from Gaza can be transferred to different adversaries, given distinct rules of engagement, strategic cultures, and threat environments.

In Gaza itself, reporting and military actions continue to unfold around the Rafah crossing. Hamas has fired near the crossing area as security authorities weigh when and how to reopen the border to movement of people and aid. The cross-border dynamics remain sensitive, with the potential for escalation if hostilities resume near the crossing or if miscommunications spark renewed fighting.

Turning to broader Israel-related news, the Knesset advanced a bill to establish a national day of remembrance for the October 7 attacks. The measure, approved in principle, designates the Hebrew calendar date of the 24th of Tishrei as a national day of remembrance, with state ceremonies and half-mast observances. The proposal also envisions a Commemoration, Memory, and Heritage Authority to coordinate events and preserve testimonies, as well as a memorial site and museum in southern Israel. The plan would create formal institutions to sustain public memory of the attacks and support awareness abroad. The legislation also contemplates continuity of remembrance activities through the Prime Minister’s Office until the new authority is established. While the bill received cross-party support in its first...
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2 hours ago
9 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 18:08
HEADLINES
- Lisbon Tantura Closes After Decade of Antisemitism
- Knesset Advances Remembrance Day Oct 7
- Ran Gvili Remains Search Resumes in Gaza

The time is now 1:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Here is the latest hourly update.

A popular Israeli restaurant in Lisbon, Tantura, has announced it will close on Saturday after a decade serving a fusion of Jewish and Israeli flavors. The owners described a three-year pattern of antisemitic graffiti, online hostility, and organized campaigns that intensified after October 7, 2023, culminating in the decision to shut down. The attack material on its walls in June 2024, including graffiti labeling Tantura as a massacre, was cited by the owners as part of a broader hostile campaign that distorted the restaurant’s purpose as a bridge between communities.

In Jerusalem, the Knesset advanced a bill to establish a national day of remembrance for the October 7, 2023 attacks. The plan designates the Hebrew calendar date of 24 Tishrei as the memorial day, with state ceremonies, a flag at half-mast, and a dedicated Knesset session. The bill also calls for creating a Commemoration, Memory, and Heritage Authority to coordinate remembrance activities, preserve testimonies, and promote awareness abroad. A memorial site and a museum in southern Israel are proposed, and until the authority is established, the Prime Minister’s Office would coordinate activities. The measure passed its first reading in the plenum with broad support and now moves to committee discussions and two more readings before becoming law.

In Minneapolis, a US federal agent was involved in a shooting during a large-scale immigration operation. City officials stated the area should be avoided as authorities investigated, with the mayor attributing heightened tensions related to immigration enforcement to the incident and broader policy debates. The episode echoes longstanding national conversations about federal enforcement and local community safety, particularly in immigrant communities.

An in-depth analysis examines contradictory messaging on Iran and regime change. The piece notes that officials in both the United States and Israel have at times signaled readiness to intervene, while also signaling restraint or deterrence. It maps out competing scenarios—from proactive intervention to pressure and covert actions—and emphasizes the difficulty of predicting which path may be pursued in the face of ongoing regional protests and strategic calculations regarding Hezbollah and regional actors. The analysis underscores the importance of preparedness for multiple contingencies without endorsing any single course of action.

Israeli aid and medical personnel are in the news again as Bitton, an Israeli who was seriously wounded during the Bondi Beach attack in Sydney, is returning to Israel for continued treatment after eight surgeries. He joined civilians in attempting to deter the attackers and was praised by family and friends for risking his own safety to help others. Australian authorities and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had previously engaged with the situation as discussions about security and international cooperation continued.

A Berlin court has indicted a 29-year-old man for attempting to stab a person wearing a Star of David necklace in Gleisdreieck Park. Prosecutors say the incident is antisemitic in motivation. Germany continues to face a high level of antisemitic incidents, with a recent report noting several thousand cases in Berlin in 2024, alongside broader concerns about hate crimes and security for Jewish communities.

A new study from Tel Aviv University highlights that subtle facial movements can influence decision making, predicting preferences even before conscious choices are made. The research shows mimicry of positive expressions can...
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3 hours ago
9 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 17:09
HEADLINES
Gaza hostage remains search widens ceasefire uncertainties
Iran opposition fragmentation tests unity for change
Europe braces free speech against security chill

The time is now 12:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

This is the hour’s news update focusing on the Middle East, the region’s security concerns, and the broader international context shaping policy and public life.

In Europe, eleven years after the deadly attacks in Paris and at the Hyper Cacher market, a debate over free expression and security remains urgent. A prominent analysis argues that acts of terrorism sought to rewrite the boundaries of public life by making fear an editorial and educational constraint. The argument contends that self-censorship—whether in newspapers, classrooms, or religious communities—has become a default response to risk, gradually eroding the conditions that sustain open dialogue. Observers point to civil and legal environments across Europe where journalistic discretion and academic inquiry increasingly carry security costs, and where the challenge is not only counterterrorism but preserving a robust culture of free speech. The broader lesson many editors and policy makers draw is that violence cannot redefine the boundaries of expression without changing the society itself. At the same time, regional data compiled in recent years show that the Middle East and North Africa continue to operate under legal regimes where speech about religion and belief can carry penalties, and where online life is extensively restricted, shaping a volatile information landscape.

Turning to Iran, long-standing protests tied to economic distress and political repression have persisted, with voices inside and outside the country warning that fragmentation among opposition groups complicates unified political change. A recent explainer outlines several strands of Iran’s opposition—ranging from monarchist factions to Kurdish and Baluchi groups—each with different aims and approaches, and all facing a government that has shown readiness to deploy security apparatus and coercive measures. In Tehran, public discourse remains tightly controlled, and analysts stress that external policy pressure, sanctions, and regional security dynamics continue to influence the trajectory of domestic dissent. The situation in Iran remains deeply consequential for regional stability, given Tehran’s role in the Gulf’s security calculus and the competing interests of neighboring countries and great powers.

In Israeli politics, a court ruling clarified how rapidly evolving investigative procedures can affect political figures under criminal scrutiny. The decision found that certain restrictive conditions in one inquiry could expire automatically if the process to extend them did not meet statutory timelines, while conditions in another related matter remain in force. The procedural distinction underscores the careful balance courts strike between individual liberties and ongoing criminal investigations, a balance with potential implications for public governance and security policy.

In the West Bank, authorities announced the recovery of a vehicle stolen from an IDF reservist that contained weapons and tactical gear. The arrest of the vehicle’s driver followed a pursuit on a major highway, illustrating ongoing risks around weapon circulation and security in a contested area where law enforcement must contend with humanitarian and safety concerns amid periodic clashes and protests.

In the United States, the political scene intersects with Jewish community safety and diaspora concerns in multiple ways. A prominent New York City policy debate centers on how the next administration will balance the protection of Jewish residents with civil liberties and the rights of peaceful protest. The upcoming test will be how the city’s...
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4 hours ago
10 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 16:08
HEADLINES
Sixteenth IDF Vehicle Theft With Gear Solved
Protest at NBN Tour Tests Mamdani
Marinera Seized in US Sanctions Drive

The time is now 11:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Police in the West Bank recovered a stolen vehicle belonging to an IDF reservist on Tuesday night, loaded with military equipment including a combat vest, several magazines, handgun holsters, and various tactical gear. The vehicle, taken in Jerusalem’s Pisgat Ze’ev district while the owner was on active reserve duty, was spotted on Highway 60 near the Arab village of Bani Naim. When the driver failed to stop, police pursued and blocked the vehicle. The suspect, a man in his twenties, attempted to flee on foot but was captured and arrested, and he was taken to Hebron police for questioning. The car is expected to be returned to its owner after forensic examination, and this incident marks the sixteenth vehicle-theft case resolved by Israel Police in the West Bank in recent weeks, including at least one instance of altering a vehicle’s Israeli plates to Palestinian plates to conceal its identity.

In New York City, Friday’s protest test will put Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration under scrutiny as anti-Israel activists plan to demonstrate at a Nefesh B’Nefesh “NBN on Tour” event in Manhattan. PAL-Awda NY/NJ has issued the call for a demonstration that organizers say will be a significant early challenge for the new administration’s approach to safeguarding Jewish residents. The protests recall a November incident outside Park East Synagogue in which activists confronted participants, prompting broad condemnation from Jewish groups and city officials, including then-Mayor Eric Adams, who described the rhetoric as antisemitic. Mamdani’s team has said he discouraged inflammatory language at the Park East protest and asserted that every New Yorker should be able to attend houses of worship without intimidation, while also criticizing the synagogue’s hosting of the event. The mayor has since ordered a review of policing guidelines for protests at houses of worship, signaling an intent to balance First Amendment rights with community safety as his administration defines its stance on antisemitism and protest ethics.

In Washington, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan al-Saud arrived for talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss bilateral relations as well as regional and international developments. The schedule indicates a broad agenda, reflecting both enduring strategic ties and evolving regional concerns.

A note of tension on Capitol Hill: a coalition of 25 US states has filed an amicus brief in related litigation over groups that critics say provided material support to Hamas. The brief, led by Virginia Attorney-General Jason Miyares and Iowa Attorney-General Brenna Bird, argues that organizations including American Muslims for Palestine and the National Students for Justice in Palestine should be held to account under federal and state law for their activities. The filing underscores continuing debates over how to address advocacy and political speech tied to designated terrorist organizations, a dispute playing out as lawmakers weigh security, civil liberties, and the boundaries of lawful protest and support networks.

Across the Atlantic, a Swiss safety dispute resurfaced after investigators said soundproofing foam implicated in the Le Constellation bar fire in Crans-Montana should have been subject to routine safety checks. Crans-Montana’s mayor said the establishment had not undergone annual safety inspections since 2019, while officials in the canton argued that the checks were part of broader safety standards, sparking a national debate over responsibilities for safety compliance in hospitality venues. The tragedy, which claimed 40 lives, has intensified scrutiny of building materials...
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5 hours ago
9 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 15:07
HEADLINES
Iran endures second wave protests crackdown intensifies
Saudi FM in Washington for Gulf talks
Aleppo curfew as two neighborhoods sealed

The time is now 10:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

This is the hour’s update with a steady, factual briefing on developments in the Middle East and related global issues, presented in clear terms for an international audience.

New York City faces a defining test of how a new administration will safeguard Jewish residents and houses of worship as anti-Israel activists are set to protest a Nefesh B’Nefesh event in Manhattan. The demonstration follows a November confrontation that drew sharp criticism from city officials and Jewish leaders. The Mamdani administration has voiced a commitment to protecting First Amendment rights while condemning rhetoric that threatens safety, and is reviewing protest guidelines around religious sites. The episode underscored Jewish voters’ concerns about security in a city with a large and diverse community and highlighted the ongoing debate over how to balance free expression with protective measures for worship spaces.

In Washington, Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister arrived for meetings with US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, to discuss bilateral ties and regional developments. The talks are expected to cover security cooperation, energy and defense collaboration, and broader regional dynamics as Washington and Riyadh reassess approaches to Iran, Yemen, and the evolving balance of power in the Gulf.

Across the border in Syria, clashes intensified in Aleppo, with government forces and Kurdish-led groups reporting renewed fighting. A curfew and the declaration of two neighborhoods as a closed military zone disrupted civilian life, with reports of casualties and mass displacement. The fighting closed the main airport and corridors to neighboring countries, raising concerns about civilian safety and the risk of a broader flare in the Kurdish-majority northeast and adjacent areas.

Iran remains at the center of a global attention cycle as nationwide protests enter a second wave of endurance. Iranian authorities have pressed ahead with security efforts to quell demonstrations sparked by economic strain and political grievances. International voices warn of continuing crackdowns, while some analysts in allied capitals assess that the regime remains capable of weathering the dissent, potentially limiting the likelihood of rapid shifts that would destabilize regional security. In Washington, lawmakers have urged firm action against violence, while back-channel assessments emphasize the long arc of Iran’s internal pressures and external calculus.

Israel’s diplomacy and regional strategy continue to evolve around three strands: advancing recognition of strategic partners, consolidating security partnerships, and navigating a reform-minded domestic agenda that critics say could reshape governance and oversight. Israel has been pushing to broaden recognition for Somaliland, advancing a broader effort to align with partners along strategic trade routes and security corridors, a move linked to concerns over Red Sea access and regional stability. In parallel, Prime Minister Netanyahu discussed intensified cooperation with key partners, including India, with a focus on counterterrorism, trade routes, and technological collaboration. The broader message from Jerusalem is a push to maintain momentum in international alignment while managing domestic political changes.

Energy and maritime security developments also featured prominently. The United States seized a tanker connected to Venezuela and under sanctions, with reports that the vessel Marinera—formerly Bella 1—was operating under a Russian flag with fleet protection in international waters. The operation, which involved American,...
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6 hours ago
8 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 14:07
HEADLINES
Detention Extended for Haredi Draft Protest Driver
Israeli strike targets Hezbollah operative in Jouaiyya
Iran currency collapse fuels nationwide protests

The time is now 9:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

This is your 9:00 a.m. update on events shaping the Middle East and the Jewish world, with context to help international audiences understand the broader implications.

In Jerusalem, the court managing the investigation into the deadly incident at a Haredi draft protest extended the detention of the bus driver, identified as Fakhri Khatib, until January 15. Authorities say investigators will exhaust inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the event, which left a 14-year-old boy dead and several others injured when a bus drove into a crowd along Bar-Ilan Street. Prosecutors noted they need more time to review video footage, witness statements, and the driver’s account before any charging decision. The case has stirred concern within political and religious communities, and elected representatives have called for a thorough and uncompromising police investigation.

In the security arena, the Israeli military said it conducted a strike in southern Lebanon against a Hezbollah operative in Jouaiyya, describing it as a response to ongoing ceasefire violations. The move underscores the fragile boundary between security actions and de-escalation efforts along the Israel-Lebanon frontier as authorities monitor any potential flare-ups that could threaten civilians on either side.

Across the region, Iran remains at the center of a wide-ranging set of crises. Demonstrations that began over economic hardship and currency depreciation have expanded across western and other provinces, drawing in a broad cross-section of society. Iranian authorities report casualties and arrests, while rights groups document higher figures and emphasize the difficulty of independent verification. Tehran’s leadership has adopted a dual stance: top officials warn against the brutality of crackdowns and say sanctions and mismanagement are fueling protests, while others insist security measures must be maintained to preserve order. In public remarks, Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed solidarity with the Iranian people’s aspirations for freedom, while US and European leaders have urged restraint. The protests have included confrontations at major urban centers, with imagery showing protests near government centers and economic protests spreading to manufacturing hubs. Iranian authorities say they are confronting rioters and those exploiting the unrest. Separately, Iran’s top security officials have warned against external interference, as Washington and its allies voice concern about human rights and regional stability.

The hostage issue in Gaza remains a focal point of both humanitarian concern and security strategy. Hamas and other actors resumed searches in Zeitoun, a northern Gaza district, for remains of missing hostages, in coordination with Israeli authorities. Israel has indicated that progress on the Gaza boundary and border crossings is linked to the return of remains, a position reiterated by government and security officials. The Rafah crossing remains a hinge in the broader Gaza deal framework, with officials noting that operational decisions hinge on the status of hostage remains and security assurances.

On the high seas, the United States has been pursuing the seizure of the tanker Marinera, a vessel tied to Venezuela and bearing a Russian flag under close watch. The pursuit, aided by US Coast Guard and military assets, unfolded amid a tense Atlantic chase and reports of Russian naval escorts nearby. The vessel, which has been tied to sanctions enforcement, has drawn attention for illustrating how sanctions policy is being tested in real time as vessels attempt to navigate blockades...
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7 hours ago
7 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 13:12
HEADLINES
Rafah raid by Israeli-backed militia escalates Gaza
UN accuses Israel of apartheid West Bank
Ran Gvili remains fuel for hostage diplomacy

The time is now 8:04 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Good morning. Here is your on the hour update with context for an international audience about the Middle East and related global developments.

In southern Gaza, an Israeli‑backed Palestinian militia known as the Popular Forces says it carried out a raid in Rafah and killed two Hamas operatives who allegedly refused to surrender, while detaining a third. The group also released a photo it says shows one of the slain men. Hamas did not comment on the claim, and Reuters was unable to independently verify the report. Rafah is part of the Gaza enclave that remains under Israeli control under the terms of the October accord between Israel and Hamas, and the Popular Forces—believed to be the largest of several such groups operating in Israeli‑controlled zones—have gained attention for challenging Hamas while drawing criticism from Gazan residents who view these militias as destabilizing forces. Israel has publicly supported anti‑Hamas groups in these areas but has provided few details about incentives or coordination, and the new force has expanded the political and security pressures on Hamas as it tries to reestablish control over Gaza.

In the Israeli legal arena, Military Advocate General Itay Offir rejected a lenient plea deal for IDF Sergeant Aviad Frija in the November 2023 killing of Yuval Kestelman, a case that has polarized public opinion and politics in Israel. Frija shot at attackers during a Palestinian shooting incident near Jerusalem’s Givat Shaul neighborhood, then, believing Kestelman to be a terrorist, fired on him as he was unarmed and surrendering. The case has evolved through lengthy negotiations over charges, with a trial now in prospect. Offir’s move to move forward with the indictment, after only 41 days in office, has prompted debate about how the military justice system should handle high‑profile incidents involving soldiers in chaotic combat situations and the political pressures surrounding them. Observers say this could influence forthcoming decisions in related matters, including potential actions in other controversial cases, and it will be watched closely by military, legal, and political circles as a signal about the balance between accountability and public sentiment in the current security climate.

In health and science, Sheba Medical Center in Tel Aviv is inaugurating the Roman Abramovich Theranostics and Nuclear Medicine Center at its Tel Hashomer campus. The 4,700‑square‑meter facility will house an on‑site cyclotron and four dedicated units focused on molecular imaging and targeted therapies, including PET/CT, PET/MRI, SPECT/CT, and a theranostics unit for personalized cancer treatment. The project is designed to speed diagnostic capabilities, expand access to radiopharmaceuticals, and enhance participation in clinical trials and international collaborations. Officials said the center will serve more than 16,000 patients annually and will position Israel at the forefront of imaging and targeted therapies in the region, complementing ongoing partnerships with industry leaders in AI and medical technology.

On hostage diplomacy and conflict management, reports indicate that coordination between Israel and Hamas continues in the search for the remains of Ran Gvili, the last Israeli hostage killed in Gaza. In Zeitoun, northern Gaza, the search—conducted with Israeli involvement—reflects a difficult trade‑off in which Israel uses limited cooperation to press for the return of remains and political concessions tied to the crisis surrounding the Rafah crossing. Earlier statements from Israeli officials tied any broader steps on the Gaza deal to progress on the hostage...
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8 hours ago
9 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 12:05
HEADLINES
Iran Protests Mark 11th Day 34 Dead
Ran Gvili Remains Halt Rafah Opening
Israel Bond Sale Draws $36B Orders

The time is now 7:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At 7:00 AM, new developments across the Middle East and related regions are shaping a dynamic and tense security landscape. In Iran, nationwide protests entering their eleventh day continue to confront a stern security response. Reports from police and human rights observers indicate at least 34 protesters killed and more than two thousand arrested across 92 cities in 27 provinces, with demonstrators deploying bold public displays and chants challenging the regime. Observers note that opposition figures are attempting to coordinate actions, while social media accounts claim some security units have shown sympathy with protesters in certain locales.

In Washington, Senator Lindsey Graham urged the regime to heed what he called a clear warning from the United States. In a Fox News interview, he said President Trump would consider action against Iran’s leadership if security forces persist in lethal crackdowns, linking the approach to deterrence and to the US stance reflected in recent, high-profile actions in other arenas. Graham pressed Tehran’s clerical leadership to “take Trump seriously,” arguing that maintaining a harsh crackdown would heighten the risk of direct, top-level retaliation.

Iranian officials have been stepping forward with supportive, if stark, rhetoric. Iran’s top judge warned there would be “no leniency for those who help the enemy against the Islamic Republic,” explicitly accusing Israel and the United States of pursuing hybrid methods to disrupt the country. The judiciary’s remarks come as Tehran faces intensified international attention and as the US signaled support for protesters against security forces. Separately, Iran’s army chief cautioned the United States and Israel not to back anti-regime protests, underscoring the regime’s stance against foreign involvement in internal dissent.

On the ground in Gaza, coordination between Israel and Hamas continued in the search for the remains of the final hostage, Ran Gvili. The operation is taking place in Zeitoun, in northern Gaza, with Israeli officials noting that cooperation allows searches to occur on the Israeli side of the Yellow Line. Israeli officials have linked progress on this matter to broader security and diplomatic considerations, including statements from Prime Minister Netanyahu that the Rafah Crossing will not be opened until Gvili’s remains are returned. The loop of talks and searches underscores the fragile, ongoing arrangements surrounding hostages and the broader conflict.

In economic and financial news, Israel completed a $6 billion public offering of dollar-denominated bonds, drawing substantial international demand and signaling strong investor confidence in the Israeli economy. The deal featured three series of bonds with maturities of five, 10, and 30 years, and attracted orders well in excess of the issued amount. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich described the sale as a sign of resilience in Israel’s economic management amid regional and global uncertainties, with orders totaling about $36 billion from more than 300 investors across more than 30 countries.

Turning to domestic security and civil society, New York City’s Jewish community faces a persistent rise in antisemitic incidents. The NYPD reported that Jews were the target of more hate crimes in 2025 than any other group combined, prompting Governor Hochul to announce the creation of safety zones around houses of worship to protect communities at risk. Police officials noted that antisemitic incidents remained a disproportionate share of hate crimes despite some overall reductions, and local leaders stressed the ongoing need for vigilance and enforcement.
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9 hours ago
6 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 11:07
HEADLINES
Gaza hostage search renewed amid ceasefire fears
Syria Israel security framework nearing completion
Iran protests widen as regime faces challenge

The time is now 6:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At six o’clock this morning, we begin with developments across the Middle East and related global concerns that touch Israel and the Jewish world.

In Gaza, the search for Ran Gvili, the remaining hostage, has been renewed in the Zeitoun district on the Gaza side of the Yellow Line, in coordination with Israeli authorities. The operation emphasizes the fragile, ongoing effort to locate and recover hostages while maintaining the delicate border arrangements that separate Hamas-controlled areas from Israeli-controlled zones. The revival of the search underscores the persistence of humanitarian and security concerns in Gaza amid a broader context of coercive diplomacy and ceasefire negotiations.

Across the region, international observers are watching the flow of aid into Gaza. Israel and its partners continue to emphasize the humanitarian dimension of support, even as some voices inside Israel have urged caution about the scale and route of aid deliveries. Reports note that thousands of trucks carrying food and fuel enter Gaza weekly, a level cited by Israeli officials as providing for the civilian population but also drawing scrutiny about how aid funds may be used and how to balance humanitarian relief with security considerations.

In Israel proper, a notable cultural milestone took place as Yehoram Gaon, the beloved Israeli singer, married his partner Ella Lusa at age 86. The ceremony, intimate and attended by close family and friends, reflects the country’s ongoing engagement with public figures and cultural life even as security and political issues dominate headlines.

Turning to the broader security landscape, Iran remains the focal point of regional tension as nationwide protests continue. Iranian demonstrators have returned to streets in multiple cities, with prominent political figures and international observers highlighting the scale of dissent. US and allied commentary has described the protests as a broad challenge to the regime, with authorities reporting arrests and casualties as demonstrations enter an extended phase. Tehran has responded with warnings and security measures, while officials also warn of repercussions for foreign support of the protests.

In parallel, a significant security and diplomatic development concerns Syria and Israel. Reports from Paris indicate that a Syria-Israel security framework is nearing completion, including the establishment of a hotline to prevent misunderstandings and accidental escalations. Some sources suggest that Israel may have moderated autonomy demands related to Syria’s Druze communities as part of these discussions. If realized, the deal would represent a concrete step toward reducing friction on the Golan frontier and in airspace that has seen recurrent clashes.

On the Israeli front, a new military assessment has stressed the possibility of a surprise war along the frontier. IDF leadership has signaled a strategy focused on preventing any militant or proxy force from gaining unchecked advantage on the border, with emphasis on vigilance and rapid response to any escalation near Gaza or along the northern and southern fronts. This approach aligns with ongoing efforts to deter militants while preserving civilian safety and regional stability.

In Jerusalem and the wider security environment, authorities acted after a deadly incident in which a bus rammed into protesters in the Romema neighborhood, killing a 14-year-old boy and injuring several others. Police subsequently prepared aggravated murder charges against the driver, with officials promising a thorough investigation to determine the full set...
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10 hours ago
8 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 10:07
HEADLINES
US weighs Greenland purchase including military option
Israel approves 3401 housing units in E1
Iran protests widen as regime vows retaliation

The time is now 5:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Good morning. Here is your hourly update on the latest developments in the Middle East and related global affairs.

In Washington, the White House confirmed President Trump is weighing a range of options to acquire Greenland, including consideration of military action, a move described as a national security priority aimed at deterring adversaries in the Arctic. White House officials also stressed that no invasion was imminent and that discussions include options to purchase Greenland from Denmark. French foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot said Paris is coordinating with partners on how to respond should the United States act on the Greenland question, and that the topic would be raised with the German and Polish foreign ministers later today.

Turning to Europe’s role in security planning, Cyprus has assumed the rotating presidency of the European Union for six months, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy among those attending a kickoff meeting in Nicosia alongside EU leaders. The development comes as Europe weighs its stance on a range of regional security questions, including a security framework in the Middle East.

In the tech and defense spheres, Nvidia showcased a new generation of Israeli-connected hardware at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The Rubin graphics processing unit will operate within data centers that integrate Israel-developed components, including a Vera core processor, the NVLink 6 Switch, the ConnectX-9 high-performance adapter, the BlueField-4 DPU, and the Spectrum-6 Ethernet switch, developed at Nvidia’s Yokne’am center. Nvidia credited Israeli collaboration and Mellanox’s contributions for advancing communications efficiency in large-scale AI deployments. The company also highlighted partnerships with Mercedes-Benz on autonomous vehicle technology and noted support for open inference models, with Israeli firms like Lightricks contributing AI-based video capabilities.

In Jerusalem, court proceedings concluded in the 2024 car-ramming and attempted shooting in the Romema neighborhood. Two perpetrators, Hebron residents, were convicted of four counts of attempted murder and related offenses and were sentenced to 28 years in prison each. The attack, which occurred during an anti-conscription demonstration in April 2024, wounded several people, including a 14-year-old, and was part of a broader wave of politically and socially tense violence in the capital.

In related security news from Israel, a separate violence spike in Arab communities continued into the new year. Three Arab Israeli men were shot dead in Shfaram early today, bringing the week’s toll in the Arab sector to 11 fatalities as a violent feud between local crime groups, notably the Hawalad and Sawad networks, persisted. The victims included residents of Shfaram and from Bir al-Maksur, with authorities pursuing a number of suspects in a nationwide crackdown. The surge in violence has drawn renewed calls from President Isaac Herzog for urgent action toward public safety and social equity, and he has convened an emergency meeting with Bedouin and Jewish regional leaders in the south to address the crisis.

In the same wave of security concerns, a medical student who had returned from Georgia died after a shooting in Ar’ara Banegev, attributed to a family feud linked to a broader pattern of violence in the Bedouin communities. Police said multiple suspects were arrested in connection with that shooting, underscoring a broader policing challenge in Arab towns.

Separately, Israel approved a major infrastructure decision in the capital’s outskirts. After decades...
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11 hours ago
7 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 09:09
HEADLINES
Shfaram triple killings ignite Arab feud
Iran protests rise as crackdown claims lives
Israel approves E1 housing near Jerusalem

The time is now 4:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At 4:00 a.m., new violence in Israel’s Arab communities draws attention to a troubling pattern as police investigate a triple killing in Shfaram. Three men were shot dead at a construction site shortly after 7:00 a.m. local time, in what investigators describe as a criminal hit tied to a feud between rival crime groups operating in the area. The victims were Yasser Hujirat, 53, from Shfaram; Fathi Hujirat, 55, from Bir al-Maksur; and Khaled Gadir, 62, also a Bir al-Maksur resident. Authorities say the shooting appears connected to long-running feuds between local groups, with police launching a manhunt for suspects and considering patterns of blood revenge seen in past cycles of violence. The incident comes as Arab communities in Israel report eight fatalities so far in 2026, according to Abraham Initiatives, with violence in this sector already outpacing early-year levels from the previous year. In the same week, a separate overnight killing in Ar’ara claimed the life of Mahmoud Jasser Abu Arar, a 20-year-old medical student who had just returned from Georgia; police say the shooting is linked to family feuds and blood revenge, and ten suspects have been arrested. Earlier in the week, a father and son were killed in Nazareth, another sign that the January period has seen a wave of fatal encounters linked to crime and inter-family disputes. Police emphasized ongoing investigations and said additional arrests were being pursued as part of broader security efforts in the Arab sector. Community voices have urged governance and stronger security measures, with critics pointing to perceived gaps in policy responses and resource allocation. President Isaac Herzog framed the surge as a national challenge requiring urgent action to restore personal security for Arab citizens and to uphold the rule of law.

Turning to developments beyond Israel, Iran entered its eleventh day of nationwide protests that have drawn thousands into the streets in multiple cities. The crackdown has left at least 34 protesters dead and more than two thousand people arrested, according to human rights groups and Iran’s judiciary-linked outlets. Demonstrations have spread to at least 92 cities across 27 provinces, with Iranians continuing to challenge the Islamic Republic’s leadership despite a sustained security response. Videos from Abdanan in Ilam province show demonstrators chanting anti-regime slogans, including calls that translate to “Death to Khamenei.” In parallel, Iranian Kurdish parties issued a joint call for a general strike on Thursday and Friday to back the protests, highlighting organized opposition across the country. In a separate development, Iran’s judiciary announced the execution of Ali Ardestani for espionage in favor of Israel’s Mossad, reporting that the Supreme Court approved the sentence. Iranian authorities have long argued that such arrests and executions reflect a broader struggle against external interference, including actions by the United States and its allies. The events in Iran come as regional observers watch for how the protests and the regime’s response could affect its posture toward Israel, the United States, and Western powers.

In Yemen, the regional crisis took another turn as Aidarous al-Zubaidi, leader of Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council, reappeared in Aden after earlier unexplained absences that had fueled questions about his whereabouts during crucial talks in Riyadh. The STC, backed by the United Arab Emirates, has been at odds with Yemen’s Saudi-backed government, and the day’s reporting indicated that Zubaidi was overseeing security operations in Aden while signaling a broader realignment among Gulf...
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12 hours ago
8 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 08:07
HEADLINES
Shfaram killings spark Arab violence crisis
Iran protests hit day eleven 36 dead
US-backed framework to regulate Israel Syria

The time is now 3:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Three men were shot dead while on their way to work in Shfaram, the northern Arab city, early Wednesday, as Israel marked at least 11 murders in Arab society since the start of 2026. The victims, all in their fifties, were found in the street with gunshot wounds and pronounced dead at the scene. Police said the background appears criminal and a manhunt has been launched for suspects. Shfaram has long been buffeted by a feud between two extended Arab families, the Su’ad and Khaldi clans, a conflict that has spilled into neighboring communities and, in some cases, claimed nonparticipants as victims. Earlier in the night, in the Bedouin town of Arara in the Negev, Mahmoud Jasser Abu Arar, a 20-year-old medical student who had recently returned from Georgia, was shot dead. Police said the killing is suspected to be linked to a blood feud, and ten people have been arrested in connection with the incident. The three killings pushed the Arab society murder total for the year to 11, echoing a grim trend that last year saw a record number of fatalities in this community. President Isaac Herzog, addressing the surge in violence, described it as a national crisis and urged stronger enforcement and the dismantling of criminal networks so that citizens in Arab society and across Israel can live in security.

In Iran, protests moved into their eleventh day on Wednesday, with rights groups saying the death toll reached at least 36 and more than two thousand people have been arrested. Reports from Abdanan in the Kurdish-majority Ilam province and from Neyriz in Fars province showed demonstrations continuing, sometimes under heavy live-fire and clashes with security forces. Iranian authorities have announced harsh measures in response to the protests, which have broadened beyond Tehran to dozens of cities. Separately, Iran executed a man identified as Ali Ardestani on charges of espionage for Israel, an event highlighted by rights groups as part of a broader pattern of detentions and executions tied to the security crackdown surrounding the demonstrations. The protests have drawn international attention as Iranians express discontent over economic conditions and political restrictions.

In Yemen, the southern separatist leadership, the Southern Transitional Council, faced a fresh setback as its head Aidarous al-Zubaidi fled ahead of planned talks in Riyadh aimed at resolving the south’s deep rift with the government in Sanaa. The disappearance followed delays and indications of mobilization among STC forces. The Saudi-led coalition meanwhile carried out limited preemptive airstrikes in al-Dhalea, the birthplace of Zubaidi, as part of ongoing efforts to manage the conflict and prevent a broader regional confrontation. The episode underlines how Gulf dynamics—long shaped by competition between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates—continue to influence Yemen’s already fragile political landscape.

Across the region, a new, US-backed mechanism has been proposed to regulate Israel–Syria relations. The framework would facilitate immediate coordination on intelligence and military matters to reduce misunderstandings, with Israel agreeing to subject its actions to American oversight while pressing for demilitarization in southern Syria. Damascus has sought a firm timetable for IDF withdrawal, but Israel’s position remains conditioned on maintaining the Druze community’s security and preventing jihadist spillover, complicating any withdrawal. The arrangement signals a cautious step toward managing a volatile border triangle among Israel, Syria, and Iran-backed forces, while keeping options open for security actions if threats emerge.Show more...
13 hours ago
7 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 07:08
HEADLINES
Israel reports first Clade 1b monkeypox case
Iran protests enter eleventh day; 36 dead
US-backed cross-border mechanism regulates Israeli-Syrian ties

The time is now 2:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

A first case of monkeypox infection from the Clade 1b lineage has been identified in Israel, in a traveler who had returned from abroad. Health authorities say the case was detected about a week ago and involves a more aggressive strain that has reappeared in recent years in Israel and other parts of the world. There is no confirmed local transmission beyond this case and no additional infections have been identified to date. The Health Ministry notes that there is currently no vaccine stock in Israel, and it is actively working to renew supply and expand access for those at highest risk. Health officials emphasize that the existing monkeypox vaccines remain effective against this strain and are expected to reduce the risk of severe illness. There is ongoing scrutiny of the clinical characteristics of Clade 1b, particularly its contagiousness and severity, as case numbers in Western countries remain limited. Public health guidance urged vigilance for new lesions or rash, especially when accompanied by fever or respiratory symptoms, and to seek testing promptly to interrupt transmission chains.

In Iran, protests entered their eleventh day as security forces confront demonstrations that have spread to hundreds of cities. Human rights monitors report at least 36 fatalities and more than two thousand arrests across 92 cities and 27 provinces, with the death toll rising as clashes continue in several areas. Kurdish opposition groups issued a joint call for a general strike on Thursday to bolster the protests in Kurdish-majority regions as well as in poorer urban centers. In a separate development, Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi delivered a direct call to Iranians on social media, urging disciplined, large demonstrations and outlining plans for coordinated action on specific days and times. He also addressed security forces, challenging them to choose their stance and to protect the public rather than suppress the protesters. Iran’s government has repeatedly framed the demonstrations as the work of remnants of the regime, while protesters have pressed for broader political reform and accountability. The situation has drawn fresh attention to Tehran’s domestic security posture and the role of external actor interests in the region.

Iran also announced the execution of Ali Ardestani, a man convicted of espionage on behalf of Israel, according to official outlets. Rights groups and observers have long noted a pattern of arrests and prosecutions tied to espionage accusations, a feature of the broader confrontation between Tehran and its regional rivals. The execution comes amid a climate of heightened tension and counter-pressure between Iran and its regional adversaries, with the government portraying the protests as a security threat and opponents accusing authorities of heavy-handed tactics.

Back in Israel, lawmakers and civil society groups continued to scrutinize tensions within the country’s own borders. A parliamentary session focusing on the Ethiopian-Israeli community drew sharp testimony about police practices and perceived discrimination. Lawmakers and family members recounted incidents of how policing has affected young people in the community, calling for accountability and greater outreach. Police representatives stressed ongoing efforts to improve relations, including creating dedicated units and appointing liaison officers at police stations. The discussion concluded without a formal decision, with plans for a follow-up session, reflecting ongoing debate about policing strategies and civil rights within Israel.

In related domestic security news, a shooting spree in the Arab sector...
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14 hours ago
8 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 06:06
HEADLINES
Iran Protests Escalate Across 92 Cities
Gulf Coalition Fractures Deepen as Leader Flees
Knesset Probes Ethiopian Policing Harassment

The time is now 1:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

This is your hourly news update. The latest from Iran’s protests shows the toll rising to at least 36 people killed as demonstrations continue across 92 cities in 27 provinces. The Human Rights Activists News Agency reports 34 of the dead are protesters and two are security forces. Authorities say more than two thousand people have been detained in the course of the protests. In a related development the judiciary reports the execution of Ali Ardestani for espionage, charged as acting in favor of the Mossad by providing sensitive information. Iranian officials say the sentence was carried out after Supreme Court approval and through established legal procedures. Across the country, many observers note that executions of individuals accused of spying for Israel have accelerated since June, when Israeli and United States forces targeted Iranian nuclear facilities. Tehran says it detains dual nationals and foreigners on security grounds, while rights groups argue such cases are often used for leverage in negotiations. The broader context remains a confrontation with Israel that has intensified in recent years, with Iranian authorities signaling they will respond firmly to perceived threats.

In a related security posture, Iran’s National Defense Council frames the threat to its security as a red line. Tehran says any aggression or persistent hostile behavior will be met with a decisive response, and it signals that legitimate self-defense could involve preemptive options if it detects signs of danger. That stance adds to the regional tension as Western powers weigh their own interests and allies prepare for shifts in posture around Iran’s intentions and capabilities.

Across the regional spectrum, voices inside Iran’s opposition movement argue that the uprising is testing the regime’s staying power. Reza Pahlavi, the exiled crown prince, has become a visible external voice backing protesters, urging a transition driven by popular choice. Supporters say his messaging has found resonance with demonstrators who chant for broad change, including references to Iran’s monarchy as part of a broader critique of the current system. Iran’s interior debate over the country’s future is now part of a wider conversation about legitimacy, reform, and national identity, with observers noting that demonstrations increasingly challenge the regime’s foundations even as they grapple with security crackdowns.

Diplomatically, Qatar’s foreign ministry warns that any escalation around Iran risks destabilizing both regional and global order. Doha says it remains in contact with Tehran and Washington and supports diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing further deterioration, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and de-escalation amid rising tensions.

Lebanon and the wider region are also in the spotlight as Gulf and regional actors weigh responses to Iran’s influence. In Beirut, Iranian and Lebanese officials are engaging in discussions tied to the broader security landscape, including messages regarding Hezbollah and the future of weapons disarmament talks. The timing comes as Lebanon readies a government report on disarming Hezbollah south of Litani and as Washington and its partners press for clear timelines on any such disarmament process.

In another development that underscores Gulf intra-alliance dynamics, Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council leader Aidarous al-Zubaidi reportedly flees rather than boards a plane to Riyadh, while the Saudi-backed coalition says he sought another destination. The incident underscores lingering fractures within Gulf coalitions amid efforts to resolve fighting between the STC and...
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15 hours ago
6 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 05:09
HEADLINES
Knesset Hearing Highlights Ethiopian Police Harassment
Reza Pahlavi Emergence Looms Over Iran Protests
Yemen STC Faction Leader Flees Unknown Destination

The time is now 12:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

This is the hourly update. We begin with reports from the region and beyond, offering the context and background that help explain why these developments matter.

In Israel, lawmakers raised concerns about the treatment of Israelis of Ethiopian descent at the hands of police. During a session of the Knesset’s Special Committee for Oversight of Barrier Removal Processes, lawmakers described harassment and discrimination faced by young members of the community. The session was initiated by Blue and White’s Pnina Tamano-Shata after a request for a similar inquiry in another committee went unanswered. Committee chair Michael Biton framed the discussion as a path to joint action, while Tamano-Shata recounted long-running conversations about the issue and the fear she says many in the community live with. She told the committee that she briefs her son each time he leaves the house and described incidents she says illustrate a pattern of mistreatment, including violence by officers and use of slurs in front of detained youths. Police officials acknowledged the concerns, with spokesman Aryeh Doron defending the department’s efforts and noting the creation of a unit dedicated to engaging with the Ethiopian community and support for measures to expunge records for Ethiopians who face criminal convictions. Yet critics pressed for accountability and improved engagement, and the committee announced a follow-up discussion. The episode underscores enduring questions about policing, race, and civil rights within a country defined by rapid social change and a long-standing conflict between security considerations and individual liberties.

In Iran, commentary framed by editors at The Jerusalem Post argued that Reza Pahlavi’s prominence abroad and within opposition circles represents a growing factor in Iran’s political dynamics. The piece notes continued protests across multiple cities, with authorities reporting fatalities and large-scale arrests amid crackdowns. It highlights chants revived on the street such as “Javid shah” and others referencing the shah, which analysts say signal a broad rejection of the Islamic Republic and its governing structure. The article describes Pahlavi’s emergence as a credible external voice advocating a transition, while outlining his five-pillar strategy—maximum international pressure on the regime, strong support for the Iranian people, defections from within the system, mass mobilization, and a planned economic and political recovery, all to be decided by a national referendum. The narrative suggests the opposition is seeking a future that could involve a redefined political system, independent of the current leadership, and it notes that US observers have followed his efforts with interest. The piece also notes that some in the exile and opposition communities view his approach as offering a potential path forward, even as others warn that Iran’s internal dynamics remain fluid and uncertain.

In the United States, a legal and policy development concerned a prominent antisemitism researcher who is also a permanent resident seeking protection from possible government action. Imran Ahmed, who has led work with the Center for Countering Digital Hate and partnerships with the Anti-Defamation League and Jewish Federations of North America, has faced a government decision signaling possible action against his residency. Although Ahmed holds a green card and previously received an EB-1 visa, a recent State Department statement and related discussions have raised questions about his status. Ahmed has obtained a restraining order to prevent possible enforcement actions, arguing...
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16 hours ago
10 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 04:04
HEADLINES
- Valente Transcripts Reveal Long-Term Planned Attacks
- E1 Tender Approves 3,401 West Bank Homes
- White House Credits Trump Blames Democrats

The time is now 11:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Transcripts released by federal prosecutors show that Claudio Neves Valente, the gunman who carried out the Brown University shooting and the later MIT home shooting, had admitted planning the attack for a long time. The four videos recovered from a Salem, New Hampshire storage locker where Valente’s body was found after a six‑day manhunt include references to an eye injury from a shell casing and indicate the attack was planned for more than six semesters. Investigators say the transcripts shed little about his motive, and while they confirm long‑term planning, prosecutors say there is no evidence of an ongoing public safety threat. The transcripts mark the first public statements attributed to Valente since his death, but they offer no clear explanation for the violence.

In Israeli politics, an internal Likud poll shows Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintaining overwhelming support within the party, with 80.4% of respondents saying he is the best person to lead Likud in the next national election. The survey, conducted January 1–3 among 1,223 verified active Likud members, found no other figure approaching Netanyahu’s level of backing. If Netanyahu does not stand, Defense Minister Israel Katz leads the field, though margins remain tight and no single successor has emerged. The results underscore Netanyahu’s continued dominance within the party and the absence of a ready alternative as the party prepares for primaries and the next Knesset elections.

Israel has cleared the final hurdle to start a controversial settlement project near Jerusalem, with a government tender for 3,401 housing units in the E1 area. Critics say the project would effectively divide the West Bank and block a contiguous Palestinian state, warning of irreversible facts on the ground. Peace Now condemned the tender as an accelerated step that undermines prospects for a political settlement, while supporters led by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich argue the plan advances security and settlement policy. The tender was published on the Israel Land Authority website, and initial construction could begin within the month if bids proceed to contracts.

In the Maduro narcoterrorism case, US District Judge Alvin Hellerstein, a 92‑year‑old Orthodox Jew, continues to oversee the proceedings. Hellerstein is known for wiring his faith into his judicial philosophy, including a Torah verse displayed in his chambers and a practice of scheduling sentencing hearings on Fridays to observe Shabbat. He has described his intent as ensuring fairness for Nicolas Maduro’s trial, who has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Analysts note the case is likely to be lengthy, and questions about the judge’s age may arise if proceedings extend over time. Hellerstein has a long record on the federal bench, including notable decisions in other high‑profile matters.

The White House has posted a new January 6 account on its website praising President Trump’s actions and assigning blame for the events to Democrats, Nancy Pelosi, and others ahead of the fifth anniversary. The page presents the Trump administration’s narrative of the day, outlining a timeline, the federal response, investigations, and prosecutions, and it emphasizes pardons granted by Trump. The material also highlights criticisms of rival coverage and references contested footage circulated by outlets such as the BBC, arguing that the narrative has been shaped to assign responsibility. The updated account reflects a partisan framing of the episode as viewed by the current administration and by Trump supporters.

These developments together illustrate ongoing tensions over...
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17 hours ago
4 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 03:07
HEADLINES
Transcripts show months-long plan for Brown attack
Israel opens E1 housing tender near Jerusalem
Israel tests border-defense system for surprise war

The time is now 10:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Here is the latest hourly briefing on events shaping the Middle East, the region’s security, and related global implications.

Federal prosecutors released transcripts from videos found after the Brown University shooting that depict Claudio Neves Valente saying he had planned the attack months in advance. The four recordings, made while Valente was holed up in a storage locker after the December 13 incident in a Brown engineering building, are the first explicit statements attributed to him since his death by self-inflicted gunshot on December 18. The statements touch on injury to his eye and indicate a long-running plan, described as “for a little more than six semesters,” but investigators say the videos shed little concrete light on motive. Valente, 48, a Portuguese national who had studied at Brown two decades earlier, killed two students and injured nine others, and investigators say he later killed a physics professor from MIT at his home near Boston. While prosecutors say the evidence to date rules out a continuing public-safety threat, they continue to seek a motive behind the violence.

In Israeli political developments, a new internal poll shows Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintaining overwhelming support within the Likud party. Some 80.4 percent of respondents named Netanyahu as the best person to lead Likud in the next national election, with no other candidate showing comparable backing. The survey also explored a potential post-Netanyahu scenario, finding Defense Minister Israel Katz would lead if Netanyahu does not run, though without a clear majority, and other Likud figures, including Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana and Nir Barkat, receiving more mixed support. Separately, the poll indicates strong backing in favor of pardoning Netanyahu, with about three-quarters supporting a full and immediate pardon, and more than three-quarters of those favoring a pardon also supporting Netanyahu’s return to office. The results reinforce Netanyahu’s hold on the party and signal a challenging succession process if he steps aside, with the leadership contest likely to be open and fluid. The internal polling comes as Likud readies for a conference and the party’s broader organization ahead of elections to the 26th Knesset.

Near Jerusalem, Israel’s government published a tender for 3,401 housing units in the E1 corridor, a move that critics say could divide the West Bank and thwart the prospects for a contiguous Palestinian state. Peace Now described the tender as an accelerant for unilateral action that would cement “facts on the ground” and reduce the possibility of a two-state outcome. The plan, long debated and previously constrained by international pressure, has long been a focal point of friction between Israel and the international community. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who plays a leading role in settlement policy, has framed the project as a step toward shaping the future map of the region. Supporters say the development is a natural extension of Israeli urban planning; opponents contend it risks encroaching on a future Palestinian state and heightening tensions. The tender appears to move forward despite broader regional sensitivities and ongoing concerns about how such construction would be perceived by international partners and neighbors.

On the security front, Israeli officials have signaled a strategic shift toward a potential “surprise war” scenario. In a conference focused on civilian resilience and front-line readiness, IDF leaders stressed that the era of containment is over and that preparations for broader, rapid responses in a conflict with regional...
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18 hours ago
8 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 02:07
HEADLINES
Israel Overhauls War Readiness for Surprise War
Autonomous Border System Demo Elevates Israeli Security
Jerusalem Bus Tragedy Triggers Safety Push

The time is now 9:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Good evening. Israel is shaping a new approach to warfighting built around the possibility of a surprise war, a scenario many fear could follow the October 7th attacks. IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir said the military is developing a strategy that centers on recognizing and countering such a scenario, with changes to readiness and orders and a focus on closing operational gaps. He emphasized that there will be no return to a policy of containment if enemies seek to entrench themselves along Israel’s borders, a message delivered at a conference highlighting civilian resilience and local authorities as essential elements of the defense on the home front.

In parallel, the Home Front Command is stressing the role of civilians as a national asset. Command chief Major General Shai Klepper described Israeli civilians as the strongest in the world, adding that partnership between communities and the IDF is how lives will be saved. The emphasis on local authorities reflects lessons drawn from recent conflicts, including the war with Iran last summer, and a continuing commitment to maintain public readiness and rapid responses to threats.

On the border and in the air, Israel is moving to integrate technology with a unified operational picture. Israeli media reported demonstrations by Israel Aerospace Industries of a new, integrated border defense system designed to detect and respond to threats along Israel’s frontiers in routine and emergency scenarios. The system fuses real-time data from sensors, platforms and domains—land, air, sea and space—into a single picture, with certain capabilities operating autonomously. The demonstration featured a suite of platforms, including advanced surveillance drones capable of operating in poor weather and low visibility, vertical takeoff and landing UAVs for reconnaissance and rapid strike missions, and a light aircraft tailored for border security duties. IAI officials described the solution as autonomous, innovative and highly survivable, capable of providing a rapid response across diverse border scenarios while protecting soldiers on the ground.

These developments come as Israel watches a filter of regional tensions. In northern Syria, clashes between government and Kurdish-led forces in Aleppo killed multiple people, many of them civilians, in one of the day’s deadlier confrontations linked to tensions over an integration deal that has stalled in recent months. The broader context includes concerns about spillover into neighboring areas and how such dynamics could affect Israel’s security environment along the border regions.

Within Israel, the day also featured a stark domestic incident that drew wide attention. A bus driver who fatally ran over an ultra-Orthodox teen and wounded several others in Jerusalem was arrested at the scene, with a preliminary police probe indicating the driver was attacked by rioters before the incident as protesters blocked traffic. Police stressed that violence and road obstruction cross a red line and endanger lives. President Isaac Herzog called the incident heartbreaking and said the nation must investigate thoroughly and prevent a recurrence. Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich likewise urged a full investigation and action to ensure safety and accountability. The episode underscored ongoing tensions within Israeli society amid a security atmosphere that already weighs heavily on daily life and public trust.

Regionally, the Middle East continues to face a complex security mosaic. Across the flare of confrontations and shifting alliances, Israel remains...
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19 hours ago
6 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-07 at 01:05
HEADLINES
Jerusalem bus ramming kills 14-year-old boy
White House weighs Greenland purchase option
Kurdish-Syrian clash kills civilians near Aleppo

The time is now 8:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At 8:00 PM, authorities and leaders in Israel were weighing the aftermath of a deadly incident in Jerusalem as tens of thousands gathered for an anti-draft demonstration. A bus rammed into a group of Haredi protesters in Romema, killing a 14-year-old boy and injuring several others, including teenagers. The driver was detained for questioning, with police later saying he had told investigators that he had been attacked by rioters prior to the incident. The event unfolded as protesters had blocked intersections and set fires in the area, complicating the police response.

President Isaac Herzog described the evening as painful and said violence has crossed a red line in the most serious sense. He called the incident a wake-up call and urged everyone to assume responsibility, lower tensions, and do everything possible to prevent another disaster. He also expressed condolences to the boy’s family and wished a full recovery for the injured. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said the driver’s actions would be examined from all investigative angles and emphasized that the investigation would be conducted with utmost seriousness. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said the episode was heartbreaking and shocking and stressed that those responsible must be brought to justice; he added that such scenes should never be tolerated again.

Ultra-Orthodox lawmakers and parties reacted with condemnation of the ramming and sympathy for the victims. Some urged that incitement against the Haredi public be addressed, arguing that rhetoric surrounding the draft exemption struggle has fueled tensions. At the same time, some officials insisted the investigation must explore all possibilities, including whether provocation by protesters contributed to the driver’s actions. The Times of Israel reported that reporters and journalists at the scene faced stones and other harassment as authorities sought to disperse demonstrators who had earlier blocked streets and set fires in the neighborhood.

In related political reaction, several figures connected the violence to the broader struggle over military service for ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students. Protest organizers said there was no violence on their part, but on the ground the situation deteriorated, with fires and barricades in the Yirmiyahu and Shamgar streets corridor. The incident underscored how security and civil order are being tested as a deeply polarized issue plays out on city streets.

Separately, in Washington, officials said discussions are underway in the Oval Office about possibilities for acquiring Greenland, with the White House stating that military action remains an option. The administration stressed that Greenland is a national security priority and that options include the outright purchase or a Compact of Free Association, should a deal be struck. A senior US official said advisers are weighing a range of options, and NATO leaders have offered support for Greenland, though not all major allies have endorsed the idea. The White House noted that diplomacy remains the president’s first option, but that the military option would be available if a deal could be made.

Also in global affairs, Kurdish-led and Syrian government forces clashed in northern Syria around Aleppo, resulting in multiple deaths, most of them civilians. The violence marked one of the deadlier flare-ups in months and highlighted ongoing tensions as discussions around integrating Kurdish-led forces into a centralized authority stall. The fighting added to regional instability at a time when regional actors are watching carefully the broader implications for governance...
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20 hours ago
5 minutes

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report
Stay informed, no matter how busy you are. Reporter Noa Levi of Israel Today: Ongoing War Report brings you the most crucial updates from Israel every hour. Sourced directly from leading news channels and top-rated RSS feeds, our team distills extensive news coverage from 'Telegram Channel Israel Today', 'Haaretz', 'JPost.com', 'The Times of Israel', 'Ynet' and more, into concise 2-3 minute summaries. From breaking headlines to political shifts and cultural happenings, get a comprehensive snapshot of the nation's heartbeat without the fluff. Subscribe now and never miss a beat from the heart of Israel.

Sources:
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  • Haaretz latest headlines
  • JPost.com - Homepage & Breaking
  • Maariv.co.il - News
  • The Times of Israel
  • Israel Hayom
  • ynet

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