HEADLINES
US Seizes Iranian Vessel Touska Amid Blockade
Hamas Plans Gaza Arms to Technocratic Board
Hezbollah Rocket Cell Foiled in Syria

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

In US Military Role, a US Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the “Tophatters” of Strike Fighter Squadron 14, Carrier Air Wing Nine, on the flight deck of the USS Abraham Lincoln deployed to the Arabian Sea, took off in support of the ongoing US naval blockade against Iran. The Navy also reported that yesterday it opened fire on and seized control of an Iranian commercial vessel, the Touska, after it ignored calls to halt and attempted to run the blockade; the Spruance disabled the ship by firing shells into its engine room, and American forces then boarded and took full control. CENTCOM later released footage showing US Marines departing the America-class amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli to board the vessel, following the Spruance’s action. Separately, unusual activity at STRATCOM continued as E-6B “Mercury” communications aircraft and the airborne strategic command post aircraft relocated off the east coast.

In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Hamas officials told The New York Times they are ready to hand over thousands of small weapons used by Gaza police and other internal security agencies, though they would retain weapons in their Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the group’s military wing; the plan envisages transferring Gaza’s government to a Board of Peace and a technocratic committee, a move Palestinians fear could spark renewed fighting. Syrian authorities apprehended a Hezbollah terror cell in Quneitra that was preparing to launch rockets at Israel from Syria; two militants were arrested, and several rockets and launchers were seized. Iran’s IRGC Quds Force head Esmail Qaani visited Baghdad to discuss Iraq’s next prime minister and the future of Shi’ite militias, meeting with political and militia leaders, with discussions including potential integration of militias into state security institutions and the separation of political and armed wings amid broader regional discussions.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, the Hebrew-language report on the opposition leadership contest notes that Lapid is at the bottom of the poll while Abbas has overtaken Gantz, reflecting turmoil within the opposition. The piece quotes the chief of staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, saying that the voices of the fallen who fell silent continue to echo within us. It also references assertions of false claims about war crimes tied to a lecturer who supported Gaza and was dismissed, and it notes that reservists are grappling with civilian life after service. The report mentions the Education Corps launching a program called “Path of Arrows.”

In Uplifting News, an editorial on Remembrance Day emphasizes turning grief into action and ensuring the sacrifices of Israel’s fallen are not in vain. The piece notes that Remembrance Day will be observed nationwide, reflecting on the losses of the past year, including 170 soldiers killed across multiple fronts and 54 disabled veterans who died from war-related wounds, along with 7,165 bereaved relatives. It highlights the ongoing community observances, including impromptu ceremonies outside government offices, as Israelis reflect on how to honor the fallen and sustain their memory into the future.

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.

SOURCES
https://t.me/DefenderDome/20402
https://t.me/ILtoday/18765
https://t.me/DefenderDome/20401
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/75251
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-893555
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/75252
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-893554
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1311936
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-893546

HEADLINES
STRATCOM relocates Mercury aircraft boosts command post
Hormuz sees 20 ships Iran cargoes surge
Hamas ready to hand over weapons

The time is now 12:02 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In Unusual activity by the US Strategic Command (STRATCOM) continues on Sunday, with the relocation of E-6B "Mercury" communications aircraft and the airborne strategic command post aircraft currently operating and broadcasting off the east coast...

In More than 20 vessels pass Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, Kpler data shows, More than 20 vessels moved through the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, the highest count since March 1. Among them, five last loaded cargoes from Iran ranging from oil products to metals, and three are liquefied petroleum gas carriers headed to China and India. The Panama-flagged Crave, carrying LPG from the United Arab Emirates, is heading to Indonesia. Akti A and Athina, carrying refined products loaded from Bahrain, are bound for Mozambique and Thailand, respectively. The Liberian-flagged Navig8 Macallister is shipping about 500,000 barrels of UAE naphtha to Ulsan in South Korea, while the Very Large Crude Carrier Fpmc C Lord is carrying about 2 million barrels of Saudi crude to Mailiao port in Taiwan. The Indian-flagged Desh Garima loaded with UAE's Das crude is headed to Sri Lanka, and the Ruby is carrying Qatari fertiliser to the UAE. The bulk carrier Merry M is carrying petroleum coke loaded from Saudi Arabia.

In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Hamas officials claim terror group ready to hand over small weapons, rifles to Gazan police - NYT, two Hamas officials told The New York Times that the group is prepared to hand over thousands of small weapons used by Gaza's police and internal security services, though they would retain weapons within the Izzadin al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas's military wing. The officials said they have already met with other Gaza security agencies to lay groundwork for transferring government functions to a technocratic Board of Peace, and Palestinians in Gaza fear that the refusal to give up the military wing could spark renewed fighting. We heard a Gaza resident describe the desire for an end to the current stalemate.

Syrian authorities apprehended a Hezbollah terror cell in Quneitra that was preparing to launch rockets at Israel from Syria. Two terrorists were arrested, and several rockets and launchers were seized.

Iran's IRGC Quds Force head Esmail Qaani visited Baghdad to meet with Shi'ite political and militia leaders amid discussions over Iraq's next prime minister and the future of Shi'ite militias under US sanctions. This would be Qaani's first visit outside Iran since Operation Roaring Lion began on February 28. He met with militia leaders and, separately, with leaders of the Shi'ite Coordination Framework to seek a consensus candidate and to discuss the militias' future, including proposals to integrate them into state security institutions and to separate political and armed wings. The discussions also touched on the possibility of aligning on a prime minister candidate, with earlier reports noting a probe of alignment around Nouri al-Maliki.

In From grief to action: Ensuring the sacrifices of Israel’s fallen are not in vain - editorial, Remembrance Day in Israel is observed Monday evening to honor those lost in wars and terrorism, with 170 soldiers killed across multiple fronts over the past year, including 15 soldiers and reservists killed in southern Lebanon since fighting resumed on March 2. Fifty-four disabled veterans have died from wounds, and 7,165 bereaved relatives remain. Israelis gathered outside the homes of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other ministers for an impromptu ceremony, observing a minute of silence before turning to a broader public remembrance.

לפיד בקרקעית, עבאס עוקף את גנץ: הטלטלה במשאל הנהגת האופוזיציה, the Hebrew-language report notes turbulence in the opposition leadership race, with prominent figures including Lapid and Abbas moving ahead of Gantz. The report also highlights developments in the IDF, including the Education Corps launching a program called "Arrow Journey," and documents an incident in which a soldier was filmed smashing a statue of Jesus in Lebanon, an event the military says is under investigation. The piece also references long-running security operations, including a notable IDF disruption in Lebanon attributed to Division 162 about 20 years after the kidnapping of soldiers Goldwasser and Regev, with claims of the collapse of the Moraniyeh fortress in Lebanon.

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.

SOURCES
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/75251
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/04/more-20-vessels-pass-strait-hormuz-saturday-kpler-data-shows
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-893555
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/75252
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-893554
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-893546
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1311936

HEADLINES
Netanyahu warns Iran nuke would end Israel
US strikes narco terror vessel three killed
Hamas ready to hand over police weapons

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

In Operation Lion's Roar, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Iran would have been able to develop an atomic bomb to use against Israel if Israel had not struck Iran in February 2025 and again in June, a point he made to Independence Day torchlighters. He called the potential development “the beginning of the end for the Jewish people” and said Israel acted out of a resolve described as a nation rising like a lioness and roaring like a lion. Netanyahu stressed that attacks against the Jewish people have continued since the country’s founding, but Israel’s ability to repel them has changed, and he suggested the Middle East has been altered by what Israel did.

In US Military Role, the US Southern Command reported that Joint Task Force Southern Spear carried out a strike on a vessel in the Caribbean operating along known narcotics trafficking routes and connected to a designated terrorist organization, with three alleged narco-terrorists killed. Retired Vice Admiral Robert Harward, a former Navy SEAL, said an operation to seize Iran’s highly enriched uranium could take time and would require a large military footprint across all branches, noting the mission would be high-risk but achievable.

In Regional Impacts, the world weighs the fate of a Middle East ceasefire after the United States seized an Iranian cargo ship that tried to run the blockade, with Iran vowing retaliation and concerns rising that the truce may not hold. The United States maintains a blockade of Iranian ports, while Iran has at times lifted and reimposed its own blockade on marine traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a route that handles roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil. The US said it fired on an Iranian-flagged cargo ship en route to Bandar Abbas, and President Trump said on social media that the US has full custody of the ship; Iran’s military said the vessel was traveling from China and warned of retaliation. Separately, Pakistan’s military chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, led a three-day mission to Tehran carrying US proposals for a second round of peace talks, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan’s foreign minister conducted a whirlwind diplomatic tour of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey, illustrating a coordinated effort to move toward renewed discussions.

In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Hamas officials told The New York Times they are ready to hand over thousands of small weapons used by Gaza’s police and internal security services, while retaining the military wing, the Izzadin al-Qassam Brigades. The report notes the move would not disarm Hamas's entire security apparatus and that Palestinians in Gaza fear a new round of fighting if the military wing remains active. Iran’s IRGC Quds Force head Esmail Qaani visited Baghdad, meeting with Shi’ite political and militia leaders as Iraq negotiates the next prime minister; discussions included how militias might be integrated into state security institutions and the future of their armed wings, with Qaani pursuing a consensus candidate for prime minister. At Los Angeles International Airport, Shamim Mafi, a 44-year-old Iranian national living in the United States, was arrested for attempting to smuggle drones, bombs, and millions of rounds of ammunition to Sudan on behalf of Iran, and she faces charges that carry a potential 20-year sentence, with initial court proceedings planned.

In Uplifting News, NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman released remarkable raw iPhone footage capturing the Moon during the Artemis II mission, offering an unusual, intimate view of the lunar surface as the mission progresses.

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.

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-893552
https://t.me/JewishNews24/52993
https://t.me/JewishNews24/52991
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/04/world-weighs-fate-mideast-ceasefire-after-us-seizes-iranian-cargo-ship
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/04/pakistans-military-chief-takes-lead-us-iran-talks-diplomatic-blitz
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-893555
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-893554
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-893553
https://t.me/JewishNews24/52992

HEADLINES
- Netanyahu says Iran nearly had atomic bomb
- US kills narco terrorists in Caribbean strike
- Qaani meets Baghdad on militia integration

The time is now 10:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Independence Day torchlighters that Iran would have had an atomic bomb to use against Israel were it not for Israeli actions in February 2025 and June of the same year. He described the potential scenario as "the beginning of the end for the Jewish people" and said Israel was compelled to act, noting that attacks against the Jewish people have continued since the founding of the state and that what has changed is Israel’s ability to repel them. He stressed that antisemitism remains a global reality and that Israel’s actions have altered the regional balance, framing the measures as a decisive response to an existential threat.

In US Military Role, US Southern Command reports that Joint Task Force Southern Spear carried out a strike on a vessel in the Caribbean operating along known narcotics trafficking routes and linked to a designated terrorist organization. Three alleged narco-terrorists were killed in the operation.

In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Esmail Qaani, head of Iran’s Quds Force, visited Baghdad for talks with Shi’ite political and militia leaders regarding Iraq’s next prime minister and the future of the militias amid ongoing US sanctions. This visit marked his first trip outside Iran since Operation Roaring Lion began on February 28, with discussions including the candidate for prime minister and the militias’ future, including proposals to integrate them into state security institutions and to separate political and armed wings. Separately, Iranian authorities announced the arrest of Shamim Mafi, a 44-year-old Iranian national living in Los Angeles, at LAX for attempting to smuggle drones, bombs, bomb fuses, and millions of rounds of ammunition to Sudan on behalf of the Islamic regime. Mafi faces charges under 50 USC. § 1705 and potentially up to 20 years in prison, with an initial court appearance planned for Monday.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, the West Bank expansion continues with 103 new settlements established under the current government, even as the north faces budget shortfalls. Investment in the territories has reached 19 billion shekels, while Palestinian buildings are demolished, trees uprooted, and violence has risen in the hills, signaling ongoing friction over land and governance.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Tony Greenstein, an anti‑Zionist Jewish activist, says he will fight the Green Party’s suspension over antisemitism allegations and seeks to retain his membership. The Green Party cited a documented history of antisemitism, including terrorism charges, in suspending Greenstein, who disputes the accusation and argues that antisemitism charges are weaponized against Jewish anti‑Zionists. He contends that genuine antisemites have long ignored antisemitism and suggested the suspension may reflect his prominence within the movement.

In Uplifting News, NASA has released striking video from astronaut Reid Wiseman showing raw iPhone footage of the Moon during the Artemis II mission, providing a vivid glimpse of the distant world. Separately, Jackson Memorial Hospital in South Florida is preparing to open one of the nation’s largest emergency departments this week after a $400 million expansion. The new 178,000-square-foot facility will triple the size of the existing ER and is aimed at reducing wait times, improving patient flow, and enhancing privacy for patients.

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.

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-893552
https://t.me/JewishNews24/52993
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-893554
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-893553
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/syf711tfawe
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-893551
https://t.me/JewishNews24/52992
https://t.me/JewishNews24/52986

HEADLINES
Israel struck Iran to avert nuclear bomb
US seizes Iranian-flagged cargo vessel at sea
West Bank 103 new settlements 19B invested

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

In Operation Lion's Roar, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Independence Day torchlighters on Thursday that Iran would have achieved an atomic bomb to use against Israel if Israel had not attacked Iran in February 2025 and again in June. He warned that without those strikes it would be "the beginning of the end for the Jewish people" and said, "We were compelled to act," adding that Israel did so with the spirit of "a nation rising like a lioness and roaring like a lion" as it faced a major test and the continued persistence of antisemitism worldwide.

In US Military Role, CENTCOM confirms the seizure of an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel attempting to sail to the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas. The command said it fired several MK 45 rounds at the ship's engine room after six hours of repeated warnings, before US Marines boarded the vessel, which remains in US custody.

In Regional Impacts, Israel's Defense Ministry says 170 soldiers were recognized as fallen over the past year, with 54 others disabled in service. Bereaved families now number 59,583 as of April 2026, reflecting a rise since Hamas's October 7 massacre. The ministry also noted two soldiers fallen in southern Lebanon since the announcement: Command Sergeant-Major (Res.) Barak Kalfon and Sergeant First Class (Res.) Lidor Porat. Since 1860, 25,644 soldiers have fallen. The bereaved families include 8,420 bereaved parents, 4,872 widows, 14,430 children of the fallen, 31,814 bereaved siblings, 12 fiancés, and 35 legal guardians. Since October 7, 2023, 7,165 bereaved families have suffered loss.

In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Iran's IRGC Quds Force head Esmail Qaani visited Baghdad to meet with Shi'ite political and militia leaders as Iraq negotiates its next prime minister and addresses the future of Shi'ite militias amid US sanctions. The visit marked Qaani's first outside Iran since Operation Roaring Lion began on February 28, and discussions covered reaching a consensus candidate for prime minister and the militas' future, including proposals to integrate them into state security institutions and to separate political and armed wings. The Coordination Framework had initially sought to back Nouri al-Maliki as prime minister following January's elections. Separately, Shamim Mafi, a 44-year-old Iranian national living in Los Angeles, was arrested for trafficking arms on behalf of the Islamic regime, including drones, bombs, bomb fuses, and millions of rounds of ammunition, and faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. She is expected to appear in court, with authorities releasing images from the arrest. Residents across Lebanon report deep exhaustion from repeated cycles of war and say the Lebanese state and army must restore security and stability, endorsing direct negotiations with Israel as the only viable path to ending the cycles of conflict and paving the way for lasting peace.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, the West Bank is expanding, with 103 new settlements established by the current government. Investment in the territories has reached 19 billion shekels, while Palestinian buildings are being demolished, trees uprooted, and violence has increased in the hills.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Tony Greenstein, suspended from the British Green Party over antisemitism allegations, told The Jerusalem Post that he will fight the suspension and seek to retain his membership.

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.

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-893552
https://t.me/JewishNews24/52985
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-893550
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-893554
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-893553
https://t.me/selena_updates/62219
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/syf711tfawe
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-893551

HEADLINES
Netanyahu warns Iran would have atomic bomb
US seizes Iranian-flagged ship in Oman
LAX arrests Iranian drone trafficker to Sudan

The time is now 8:02 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that had Israel not struck Iran in February 2025 and again in June, Iran would now possess an atomic bomb to use against Israel, a development he warned would be “the beginning of the end for the Jewish people.” He said Israel was compelled to act, describing the year as a massive test and noting that Iran was moving to build atomic bombs to destroy Israel. He stressed that Israel has changed the Middle East by repelling attacks and reminded that antisemitism persists in the world even after the Holocaust.

In Iranian Retaliation, the Iranian Armed Forces’ Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said they will soon respond and retaliate for the US attack and seizure of an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel in the Gulf of Oman, calling it a ceasefire violation and US piracy. Iran’s top joint military command, also linked to Khatam al-Anbiya, condemned the US for violating the ceasefire by firing on one of Iran’s commercial ships in the Gulf of Oman and vowed retaliation; the incident involved an Iranian-flagged cargo ship that sustained damage and was taken into custody by US Marines after attempting to pass the naval blockade, with a Truth Social post from Donald Trump noting the ship as Touska and mentioning sanctions. Iran’s state-run Tasnim News Agency said Iranian forces attacked some American military ships with drones in response to today’s US attack on the Iranian-flagged Touska in the Gulf of Oman.

In US Military Role, CENTCOM confirmed the seizure of an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel bound for Bandar Abbas. In a statement, CENTCOM said it fired several MK 45 rounds at the ship’s engine room after six hours of repeated warnings, before US Marines boarded the vessel, which remains in US custody.

In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, LAX authorities arrested Shamim Mafi, a 44-year-old Iranian national permanently residing in Los Angeles, for trafficking drones, bombs, bomb fuses, and millions of rounds of ammunition to Sudan on behalf of Iran. Mafi faces charges under 50 USC. § 1705 and a potential maximum sentence of 20 years in prison if convicted; she is expected to make an initial court appearance, with FBI charging documents and related materials publicly referenced. Residents across Lebanon voiced deep exhaustion from repeated cycles of war, stressing the need for the Lebanese state and army to restore security and stability, and they expressed support for direct negotiations with Israel as the only viable path to ending repeated wars and opening the door to lasting peace. In Debel, southern Lebanon, an IDF soldier smashed a statue of Jesus in a Christian village; the IDF called the act highly serious, said the conduct was wholly inconsistent with its values, and said the incident is under investigation by the Northern Command with appropriate measures to be taken, while the army assists the community in restoring the statue.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Tony Greenstein, a self-described anti-Zionist Jewish activist, told The Jerusalem Post that he will fight his suspension from the Green Party over antisemitism allegations and seeks to retain his membership. He disputed the accusations as spurious, saying antisemitism accusations are offensive when aimed at Jewish anti-Zionists, and arguing that his suspension may reflect his status as a prominent Jewish anti-Zionist within the party.

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.

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-893552
https://t.me/selena_updates/62218
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-893549
https://t.me/DefenderDome/20398
https://t.me/JewishNews24/52985
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-893553
https://t.me/selena_updates/62219
https://t.me/selena_updates/62216
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-893551

HEADLINES
- Netanyahu says strikes blocked Iran atomic bomb
- Iran: US breaches ceasefire; drones hit ships
- IDF Probes Soldier Smashing Jesus Statue

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

In Operation Lion's Roar, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Independence Day torchlighters that if Israel had not attacked Iran in February 2025 and again in June, the Islamic regime would now have an atomic bomb to use against Israel. He warned this would be "the beginning of the end for the Jewish people" and said Israel acted with the spirit of "a nation rising like a lioness and roaring like a lion" to compel action. He noted that what changed is Israel's ability to repel attacks and that antisemitism persists despite the lessons of the Holocaust.

In Iranian Retaliation, Iran's armed forces said the United States violated the ceasefire by attacking an Iranian container ship en route from China to Iran. In response to the ceasefire violation, Iranian forces attacked US military ships using drones.

In Regional Impacts, the IDF confirmed the authenticity of an image showing a soldier smashing a statue of Jesus in Debel, a Maronite Christian village in southern Lebanon near Ain Ebel, calling the act severe and wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops; the incident is being investigated by the Northern Command, with appropriate measures to be taken and assistance to restore the statue. A separate video of the same incident circulated online, with the IDF reiterating that the conduct is inconsistent with its values.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Tony Greenstein, suspended from the British Green Party over antisemitism allegations, told The Jerusalem Post he will "fight the spurious allegations" and seek to retain his membership, disputing the charges and arguing the accusations.

In Uplifting News, Argentina's president Javier Milei, chosen to light a torch at the ceremonies and on a diplomatic visit to Israel, was seen singing during the rehearsal for the torch-lighting ceremony at Mount Herzl, with meetings planned with Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Herzog, potential signing of cooperation accords, an announced direct air link between Israel and Argentina, and a plan to move Argentina's embassy to Jerusalem. Separately, Israel released 24 more Gazan prisoners of war back to Gaza, transferring them to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah for medical checkups in the central Gaza Strip.

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.

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-893552
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/75249
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-893544
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/syliopm6zx
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-893551
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1311926
https://t.me/selena_updates/62191

HEADLINES
Iran Attacks US Ships with Drones
IDF Soldier Smashes Jesus Statue in Debel
Hostage Families Seek Knesset Inquiry October 7

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

In Iranian Retaliation, Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters of the Armed Forces in Iran says the US violated the ceasefire by attacking an Iranian container ship en route from China to Iran. In response to that ceasefire violation, the Iranian armed forces attacked US military ships using drones.

In US Military Role, US Central Command released video of the interdiction of the Iranian motor vessel Touska in the Northern Arabian Sea by the destroyer USS Spruance. The footage shows warnings to vacate the engine room, followed by three rounds from the deck gun that disabled the vessel before Marines boarded. CENTCOM also released video showing the Spruance firing its main gun at the Iranian-flagged Touska as it attempted to breach the US blockade.

In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the IDF confirmed the authenticity of images showing a soldier smashing a statue of Jesus in Debel, southern Lebanon, calling the act deeply disturbing and saying the incident is being investigated as wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops; appropriate measures will be taken and the statue will be restored with assistance to the local community. The incident was reported from the Christian village of Debel near Ain Ebel in southern Lebanon. The IDF also highlighted a Hezbollah ceasefire violation in its security updates.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, a prominent opinion argues that while the US-Israel campaign against Iran has made progress, key threats remain unresolved, including Iran’s nuclear and missile programs. The piece notes that the campaign has eliminated substantial parts of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, ballistic missiles and UAV capabilities, while some estimates suggest Iran still retains significant drones and launchers. It warns that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps seeks a nuclear weapons capability as an insurance policy and that the campaign could influence regime change or fuel further radicalization.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, family members of slain hostages told a Knesset panel they feel unseen and lament the lack of government support, urging a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 failures. A mother of a victim described returning remains as a moment of deep pain that left her unable to work, and Remembrance Day has been emotionally difficult for many, reflecting broader economic and emotional strain on families.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Tony Greenstein, suspended from the British Green Party over antisemitism allegations, says he will fight the suspension and seek to keep his membership, arguing the charges are spurious and that criticisms of Zionism do not equate to antisemitism.

In Israeli Economy and Business, the Israeli Foreign Minister says there will be state subsidies for direct flights between Israel and Argentina, as well as insurance for investments in Argentina.

In Uplifting News, Israel released 24 Gazan prisoners of war back to Gaza, with they being transferred to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah for medical checkups.

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.

SOURCES
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/75249
https://t.me/DefenderDome/20394
https://t.me/newssil/199549
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/75247
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-893544
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/syliopm6zx
https://t.me/DefenderDome/20395
https://t.me/JewishNews24/52977
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-893547
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-893543
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-893551
https://t.me/JewishNews24/52976
https://t.me/selena_updates/62191

HEADLINES
- TOUSKA seized after Hormuz blockade attempt
- Debel statue incident tests Israel Lebanon ties
- Remembrance Day hostages families demand accountability

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

In US Military Role, an Iranian-flagged cargo ship named TOUSKA was seized by the United States Navy after attempting to pass a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. The ship sustained significant damage and was taken into custody by US Marines. President Donald Trump, in a post on Truth Social, said the vessel was given fair warning before a US Navy vessel attacked it, adding that the Iranian crew refused to listen and that the engine room was breached. He also noted that the TOUSKA remains under US Treasury sanctions for a prior history of illegal activity. The French shipping company CMA CGM confirmed that one of the ships involved in gunfire in the Strait of Hormuz was part of its fleet and described the incident as warning shots; the company said the crew is safe. Trump asserted that Iran fired bullets in the Strait, calling it a violation of the ceasefire. The situation remains developing.

In Regional Impacts, an unverified image circulating online appears to show an Israel Defense Forces soldier in Debel, a Maronite Christian village in southern Lebanon near Ain Ebel, smashing a statue of Jesus. The incident had not been officially confirmed by either Israel or Lebanon as of Sunday night, but the IDF said it would review the matter and that the image did not reflect the military’s values. A Christian Forum coordinator said he had received the image from community members. Separate photographs circulating on social media also depict alleged destruction of a statue in Debel during recent operations, and authorities have not confirmed the events; the IDF emphasized the conduct does not align with its standards and that a thorough investigation will be conducted. The report underscores ongoing tensions and scrutiny surrounding actions in southern Lebanon.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, observers note that the US–Israel campaign against Iran has made tangible gains in dismantling parts of Iran’s nuclear and ballistic capabilities, even as key threats persist and risk of further radicalization remains a concern. Some analyses cite reports suggesting Iran retains substantial drone and missile capabilities despite past operations, and they caution that Tehran views a nuclear capability as an insurance policy. In parallel, Iran has reportedly agreed to hand over all enriched uranium in its possession, though it remains unclear who would receive it. Potential recipients include Russia, the International Atomic Energy Agency, or possibly the United States, with Iran signaling it would allow only IAEA personnel to handle the transfer and not direct US participation. The talks also revolve around missile programs and Tehran’s support for regional militant groups, with negotiators seeking terms that could influence the broader fight over Hormuz, Lebanon, and nuclear issues. A separate analysis emphasizes that the central challenge remains addressing Iran’s ballistic missiles and nuclear ambitions while managing regional tensions tied to the Hormuz corridor and the Israel–Lebanon dynamic.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, families of slain hostages told a Knesset panel ahead of Remembrance Day that they feel abandoned by government support and confront ongoing emotional and economic strain after their loved ones were kidnapped on October 7. Ayelet Samerano, mother of Yonatan Samerano, described feeling invisible since her son’s remains were returned from Gaza, saying she could not go to work and that the experience has left her overwhelmed with grief. She and others urged for a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 failures, highlighting the need for accountability and sustained support for families as the nation marks Remembrance Day.

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.

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-893549
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-893544
https://t.me/DefenderDome/20391
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-893547
https://www.israelhayom.com/2026/04/19/iran-agrees-to-hand-over-enriched-uranium-but-not-to-the-us/
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-893542
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-893543

HEADLINES
US Marines seize Iranian-flagged TOUSKA after blockade
Alleged Debel statue destruction prompts IDF probe
Hostages' families demand October 7 inquiry

The time is now 4:02 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In US Military Role, an Iranian-flagged cargo ship named TOUSKA sustained significant damage and was taken into custody by the US Marines after attempting to pass a naval blockade, President Donald Trump announced in a Truth Social post on Sunday. Trump said the ship was given fair warning before a US Navy vessel attacked it, and that the damage included a hole blown in the engine room. He also noted that the TOUSKA is under US Treasury sanctions for a prior history of illegal activity. The development is described as a developing story.

In Regional Impacts, a photo circulating on social media appears to show an Israel Defense Force soldier striking and destroying a statue of Jesus Christ on the cross using a sledgehammer during recent operations in the Christian town of Debel in southern Lebanon. The image has not been confirmed by official sources and has drawn attention online.

In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, an unverified image relating to the same incident led the IDF to say it would thoroughly investigate the alleged act, and there was no official confirmation from Israeli or Lebanese authorities as of Sunday night. The IDF Spokesperson’s Unit emphasized that the picture did not align with the military's values or the conduct expected of IDF soldiers, and that the incident would be investigated thoroughly and in depth, with steps taken if necessary, in line with the findings.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, many commentators tend to downplay the successful Israeli–American campaign against Iran, which is at a turning point. While more could be achieved, the campaign has degraded significant parts of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, ballistic missiles and UAV capabilities and production sites. This comes amid discussion prompted by reports that American intelligence estimates Iran retains portions of drones and missiles after the last round, even as a ceasefire and weather conditions altered some dynamics. The campaign is viewed by some analysts as potentially leading to regime change, though it could also fuel further radicalization. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which effectively controls Iran, is seen as seeking nuclear weapons as an insurance policy and will pursue that goal, and Iran is also believed to be looking to reconstruct air defense and ballistic missile capabilities in the aftermath of past operations.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, US and Israel face tough choices in talks over Iran’s nuclear threats, Hormuz, and Lebanon. The dispute over the Straits of Hormuz remains unresolved, and Israel and Hezbollah’s ceasefire remains on the edge. Taken together, these issues highlight the central challenge: the ballistic missiles and nuclear threats posed by Iran. Negotiations are described as prioritizing addressing those core threats while broader regional tensions continue.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, family members of slain hostages spoke at a Knesset panel ahead of Remembrance Day, criticizing the government for a lack of support and urging a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 failures. Ayelet Samerano, mother of Yonatan Samerano, described feeling invisible after her son's remains were returned, saying she could not go to work and that she is emotionally broken. Family members described economic and emotional strain amid the ordeal since the kidnapping and captivity in Gaza.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, the Green Party suspended anti-Israel activist Tony Greenstein, citing a documented history of antisemitism including recent terrorism charges. Greenstein was a founding member of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, and previously a member of the Labour Party; he faced a two-year restraining order and a nine-month suspended prison sentence in 2023 after attacking an Elbit Systems factory with Palestine Action. He was charged with a terrorism offense for supporting Hamas in 2023 and joined the Green Party in March 2026. The Canary published exclusive details about his suspension being approved by a vote of 11 to 1, and a leaked email in which Greenstein questioned the suspension.

In Uplifting News, Hapoel Tel Aviv has advanced to the Euroleague quarterfinals after finishing the regular season with a 23-15 record, despite a 105-85 loss to Monaco. The team will face Real Madrid in the best-of-five quarterfinal series, with Games 1 and 2 scheduled in Madrid on April 29 and May 1, and Games 3 and, if necessary, Game 4 set to be played in Sofia, Bulgaria. Maccabi Tel Aviv will shift focus to the Israeli league, while Hapoel Jerusalem returned to action with a win.

In Uplifting News, the Chords Bridge at the entrance to Jerusalem is lit up tonight with the flags of Israel and Argentina.

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.

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-893549
https://t.me/DefenderDome/20391
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-893544
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-893547
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-893542
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-893543
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-893541
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/sports/article-893548
https://t.me/ILtoday/18764