HEADLINES
Iran missile stockpile jolts Geneva talks
Rubio to meet Netanyahu amid regional crisis
US readies largest post-2003 conflict

The time is now 8:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Iran is expected to submit a written proposal on how to resolve the standoff with the United States in the wake of Geneva talks, a senior US official said. Top national security advisers met in the White House Situation Room and were told all US forces deployed to the region should be in place by mid-March, the official said. The official noted Iran agreed to provide a written proposal during the Geneva discussions, and Washington wants Iran to address concerns beyond the nuclear issue, including Iran's missile stockpile. Iran has denied pursuing a nuclear weapon. The official added that Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel on the weekend of February 28. Tuesday's indirect discussions in Geneva between US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, alongside Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, were aimed at heading off a mounting crisis. The United States has sought to expand the scope of talks to non-nuclear issues such as Iran's missile stockpile.

In the US Policy Concerning Israel, as the United States prepares for possibly its largest and most complex conflict since the Invasion of Iraq in 2003, involving the deployment of thousands of Airmen, Sailors, Soldiers, and other Servicemembers from their homes, to locations across Europe and the Middle East, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spent the day hanging from trees and doing cold plunges with the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Dr. Mehmet Oz. US Ambassador to Israel Huckabee: “Thanks Eitan Fischberger for a more accurate report. EVERYONE who comes in/out of Israel (every country for that matter) has passports checked & routinely asked security questions. Even ME going in/out with Diplomatic Passport & Diplomatic Visa.”

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/international/article-887172
https://t.me/DefenderDome/18117
https://t.me/JewishNews24/49754

HEADLINES
Iran to submit written proposal in Geneva
US readies forces for weekend strikes
Iran declares no-fly zone with missile drills

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 the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Iran is expected to submit a written proposal outlining how to resolve the standoff with the United States as Geneva talks move forward. A senior US official told Reuters that top national security advisers in the White House Situation Room were told all US forces deployed to the region should be in place by mid-March. The official added that Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel on the weekend of February 28. The Geneva discussions between US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi were aimed at heading off a broader crisis, with the United States pressing Iran to give up its nuclear program, while Iran has denied that it seeks a weapon. Iran agreed to provide a written proposal during the talks, and the United States says it is waiting for that. The United States has sought to broaden talks to non-nuclear issues such as Iran's missile stockpile. Iran declared a NOTAM establishing a no-fly zone along the yellow line from 3:30 AM Iran time to 1:30 PM, with a missile launch exercise expected using cruise missiles and air defense missiles. CBS network reporting indicates national security officials have updated President Trump that the US military is ready for possible strikes on Iran as early as this coming weekend, though a final decision remains pending.

In the US Policy Concerning Israel, US Ambassador to Israel Huckabee notes that security procedures are consistent across entry and exit points and that every traveler is subject to passport checks and security questions, including officials traveling with a diplomatic passport and visa.

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/international/article-887172
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68905
https://t.me/hnaftali/21292
https://t.me/hnaftali/21291
https://t.me/JewishNews24/49754

HEADLINES
Iran talks and US force posture escalate
Rubio meets Netanyahu amid Iran talks
Israeli skater Seniuk advances to Olympic final

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 US Policy Concerning Israel, Iran remains at the center of Washington's deliberations as diplomats press for a written proposal to resolve the standoff after Geneva talks and White House discussions. A senior US official said Iran is expected to submit a written proposal addressing US concerns, while top national security advisers in the White House Situation Room were told all US forces deployed to the region should be in place by mid-March. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel the weekend of February 28. The Geneva talks between US envoys and Iran's foreign minister aimed to avert a mounting crisis, with Washington seeking to broaden talks beyond nuclear issues to include Iran's missile stockpile. Tehran denies it seeks a weapon, but the United States continues to press for a dismantling of Iran's nuclear program. Military posturing reflects the tension: assets in the region including fighters, ships, submarines and carriers could enable thousands of sorties and long-range strikes. Some reports indicate the United States is likely to strike Iran, but the president has not yet decided on a final course of action, and Israeli officials warn the window for a deal may be closing. The situation remains fluid as diplomacy and deterrence shape the coming days.

In Uplifting News, Crowd boost helps Israeli figure skater Mariia Seniuk advance to Olympic final. The four-time national champion, who was born in Moscow and began her career in Russia before competing for Israel since 2019, drew a warm reception from the Milan audience as she advanced to the free skate by finishing the short program in 22nd place. Seniuk carried Israel's flag at the opening ceremony, where the crowd's cheers balanced with occasional boos as she acknowledged the atmosphere. She said she is grateful for the support and for the people who held the flag.

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/international/article-887172
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1286571
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/r1119ihm00wl
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-887167
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/02/iran-expected-submit-written-proposal-resolving-standoff-us-senior-us-official
https://www.israelhayom.com/2026/02/19/israeli-officials-us-action-against-iran-could-come-within-days/
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1286567
https://t.me/DefenderDome/18111
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1286566
https://t.me/hnaftali/21290
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/sports/article-887170

HEADLINES
Iran offers peace proposal amid tense standoff
Rubio to meet Netanyahu Feb 28
Israeli skater Seniuk advances to Olympic final

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 the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Iran is expected to submit a written proposal to avoid its standoff with the United States in the wake of Geneva talks, a senior official said. Top national security advisers met in the White House Situation Room and were told all US forces deployed to the region should be in place by mid-March. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to travel to Israel to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the weekend of February 28. Iran issued a NOTAM for rocket launches across southern Iran on Thursday from 3:30 GMT to 13:30 GMT, with naval drills in the Strait of Hormuz and plans for a joint naval exercise with Russia that day. The heightened tensions come as the United States has deployed warships near Iran. American officials say every force needed for a potential attack would be in the region by mid-March. In Washington and Jerusalem, officials cautioned that a decisive moment could be approaching, with a visible emphasis on coordinating any actions as military postures tighten, including movements connected to the carrier USS Gerald R. Ford. Iran has also warned pilots to avoid broad areas of its airspace ahead of extensive missile launches following weeks of exercises, as sanctions and diplomacy continue to shape the trajectory of the crisis.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to arrive in Israel next week. CENTCOM posted an update an hour ago, reflecting ongoing attention to the region and its security posture.

In Uplifting News, crowd support helped Israeli figure skater Mariia Seniuk advance to the Olympic final. The four-time national champion nailed the short program in Milan, qualifying for the free skate in 22nd place with a score of 58.61. Seniuk, born in Moscow and competing for Israel since 2019, carried Israel’s flag at the opening ceremony and said the atmosphere was very special, even as she acknowledged some criticism from parts of the crowd.

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/international/article-887172
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-887169
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-887167
https://t.me/DefenderDome/18111
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1286566
https://t.me/DefenderDome/18110
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1286564
https://www.israelhayom.com/2026/02/18/israeli-officials-us-action-against-iran-could-come-within-days/
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/bjzclsquzl
https://t.me/newssil/191964
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1286565
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68901
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/sports/article-887170

HEADLINES
Iran warns rocket launches, drills with Russia
US to withdraw troops from Syria
Rabbis urge Netanyahu block women armored units

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 the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Iran issued on Wednesday a notice to airmen that it plans rocket launches in areas across its south on Thursday from 3:30 GMT to 13:30 GMT. The notice appeared on the US Federal Aviation Administration website, and comes as Iran held naval drills this week in the Strait of Hormuz and plans to hold a joint naval exercise with Russia on Thursday. The move comes amid heightened tensions with the United States, which has deployed warships near Iran, as Washington weighs whether to continue diplomatic engagement with Tehran or pursue other options. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said diplomacy is the president’s first option, stressing that its pursuit remains a priority. Airspace users were reminded that the airspace notices provide critical safety information. Some reports cited by media have suggested a US attack on Iran could occur eventually, though no timeline is given, and there is noted concern in some quarters about possible escalation. Iran has also urged Hezbollah to enter any potential war, and Israeli officials have warned that intervention by Hezbollah would be very painful, while also preparing for possible involvement by Houthis and other Iranian proxies.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, The Jerusalem Post reports that the United States is likely to attack Iran eventually but not necessarily in the coming days, and that Israel’s impression is that President Trump has not yet decided on his final course of action. A White House spokesperson said there are many reasons to strike Iran, while signaling that diplomacy remains a primary option for the United States. The United States military has moved more than fifty fighter jets toward the Middle East in a rapid buildup, and analysts cited by Axios suggest a campaign could begin very soon, though others warn that such steps could still be distant. Axios also reported that the United States is closer to military conflict with Iran than many Americans realize, a view echoed by former Israeli intelligence officials who cautioned travelers about the risk. Separately, the Wall Street Journal reported that the United States is in the process of withdrawing all roughly one thousand troops from Syria, with remaining locations set to be cleared over the next two months. In familiar statements, the White House underscored that diplomacy is the preferred path, and senior officials emphasized that Tehran would be wise to reach an agreement to avoid conflict. Some political commentary highlighted disagreements with Saudi partners and debates over regional alignments, while Israel’s prime minister publicly stated that Israel will not fund Trump’s board of peace.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, An Australian man who called Jews “the greatest enemy” of Australia during an Australia Day march has been jailed for one year after being charged with publicly inciting hatred on the grounds of race. Brandon Koschel, 31, gave a speech in Sydney in which he attacked Jewish influence and criticized politicians who supported anti-immigration policies, prompting magistrate Sharon Freund to rule the remarks clearly antisemitic and to impose the sentence.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, Rabbis are urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to block an Israeli plan to place women in armored combat units, arguing the direction conflicts with Jewish law and operational judgment. Separately, Netanyahu decided that Israel will not be among the countries allocating funding for the construction of Trump’s board of peace.

In Uplifting News, crowd support helped Israeli figure skater Mariia Seniuk advance to the Olympic final. The four-time national champion, born in Moscow and skating for Israel since 2019, was warmly received by the Milan crowd as she qualified for the free skate in 22nd place, carrying Israel’s flag at the opening ceremony and expressing gratitude for the backing she received.

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-887169
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/sj1noqm00ze
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/rjapkc7dbg
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-887167
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-887156
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/02/us-withdrawing-all-forces-syria-wsj-reports
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68894
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68893
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-887155
https://worldisraelnews.com/rabbis-urge-netanyahu-to-block-idf-plan-placing-women-in-armored-combat-units/
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68890
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/sports/article-887170

HEADLINES
Israel-US Eye Iran Strike Amid Diplomatic Push
Graham Saudi Regression Hits Abraham Accords
Lebanon Israel Civil Panel Sparks Hope

The time is now 3:02 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, a range of voices map potential paths in a tense regional moment. Former Israeli Navy chief V.-Adm. (Reserve) Eliezer Marom said the United States is not aiming to topple Iran’s regime, but to weaken the Islamic Regime through airstrikes. He stressed Israel’s core interest is to hit Iran’s ballistic missiles, describing them as a strategic threat and noting lessons from past campaigns that show how dangerous such capabilities can be if left unchecked. Marom outlined two possible next steps: either low‑level talks in which the United States still believes an agreement could be reached, or a recognition that negotiations have collapsed and the United States is preparing for future steps that would likely include an attack. He also suggested that even if a future American administration chooses not to strike, Israel could be compelled to act if threats persist.

The White House has signaled that Washington views a strike on Iran as one option among many, while urging Tehran to pursue a deal to avert conflict. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavittsaid Tehran would be wise to reach an agreement to avoid any conflict. In parallel, US military movements have intensified in recent days, with independent trackers observing dozens of fighters jets—including F-16s, F-22s, and F-35s—being moved toward the Middle East in a matter of hours as part of a broader buildup near Iran. Axios reported that senior officials have argued the United States is closer to possible conflict than many Europeans and Americans realize, a view echoed by former IDF intelligence chief Amos Yadlin, who warned that the situation is precarious and that travel for US and allied personnel could become riskier as negotiations unfold. The overall posture underscores a moment when a large‑scale campaign could begin if diplomacy collapses or strategic calculations shift.

A briefing from the administration reiterated that diplomacy remains the first option. The President has consistently signaled that diplomacy is his first course of action, signaling that Iran would be wise to make a deal. The message from the President’s team framed military action as a last resort guided by what is in the United States’ best interests, emphasizing that any decision would be grounded in national security considerations.

Hebrew-language reporting circulating in the same vein notes heightened attention to potential military moves and war readiness, including discussions about Iran’s maritime moves and how a confrontation might unfold. The coverage points to comments tied to former naval leadership and to the broader assessment of threats posed by Iran at sea, reflecting a persistent undercurrent of concern about escalation.

A separate Hebrew report quotes Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi, portraying Tehran as prepared to respond forcefully to perceived arrogance from adversaries and signaling a firm posture amid rising tensions. The piece frames Iran as signaling it will not back down in the face of Western pressure, a dynamic that feeds into the broader sense of strategic risk as conflict debates persist.

In the US Policy Concerning Israel, the pathway ahead is contested and fluid, with lawmakers and officials weighing alliances, regional rivalries, and the ever-present possibility of a security crisis that could redraw timelines for diplomacy, deterrence, and potential action in the region.

In the US Policy Concerning Israel, Senator Lindsey Graham voiced strong disappointment with Saudi Arabia, saying the country is regressing after years of advocacy for closer ties and for joining the Abraham Accords. He argued that Saudi Arabia has moved to confront the United Arab Emirates rather than align with normalization, suggesting that disagreements over Sudan and Yemen exist, but that the Saudis are effectively declaring war in a broader sense. The remarks reflect ongoing debate among US policymakers about the trajectory of regional alliances and how shifting middle‑power alignments influence American strategic interests in the Middle East.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, an Australian man was jailed for a year after delivering an Australia Day speech in Sydney in which he described Jews as “the greatest enemy” of Australia and Western civilization. Brandon Koschel, 31, was charged with publicly inciting hatred on racial grounds. Magistrate Sharon Freund described the 40‑second speech as clearly antisemitic and noted that Koschel’s remarks drew cheers and vilified Jewish people. Koschel’s case underscores ongoing attention to antisemitic rhetoric and its legal consequences under Australia’s hate‑speech laws.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, Prime Minister Netanyahu decided that Israel will not be among the countries allocating funding for the construction of Trump’s board of peace. The decision keeps Israel out of funding plans tied to that project, reflecting ongoing domestic political calculus about participation in international peace initiatives and alignment with US administration efforts in the Middle East.

In Israeli Economy and Business, Israel’s cyber defense leadership warned that two quadrillion bytes of data have been hacked from Israelis in recent years, illustrating the scale of a growing cyber threat. The Israel National Cyber Directorate chief said Israel remains among the three most-targeted countries globally. He cited a 35% rise in phishing attacks in 2025 and a 170% surge in cyber influence operations, underscoring the persistent and expanding risk that digital breaches pose to individuals and institutions alike.

In Uplifting News, a landmark civil society moment occurred at the Munich Security Conference as Lebanon and Israel held the first‑ever formal Lebanese‑Israeli civil panel. The event, titled “Conversation on Regional Integration: Perspectives in the Middle East,” brought together groups including MIND Israel and This is Beirut and looked at Lebanon and Israel in the war’s aftermath. Participants highlighted Hezbollah disarmament, indirect talks between Lebanon and Israel, and broader prospects for regional integration. Foundational voices such as Major-General (Reserve) Amos Yadlin described the gathering as a small but meaningful step toward moving past decades of hostility, signaling a possible path toward engagement even amid long-running tension. The organizers noted the challenges of direct collaboration but emphasized the importance of dialogue as a means to reduce the risk of conflict and to explore pragmatic avenues for cooperation in the region.

Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.
I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.
Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-887149
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-887156
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68894
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1286533
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1286529
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68893
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-887155
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68890
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-887153
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-887161

HEADLINES
Netanyahu Trump Unity Faces Iran Missile Uncertainty
GOP Senator Rejects Nominee Over Antisemitic Remarks
Histadrut Opposes Wizz Air Base Plan

The time is now 2:02 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Prime Minister Netanyahu traveled to Washington for talks with President Trump and came away with a stated unity on preventing Tehran's nuclear ambitions, but private doubts linger about how any deal would affect the immediate missile threat and Tehran’s funding network. Netanyahu pressed for a deal that includes ballistic-missile restrictions and an end to Iran's funding of proxies, arguing that the missiles pose the present danger to Israel. Trump signaled caution, saying, "We just have to see what the outcome," underscoring concerns that a pact could leave Tehran's missiles in place while the nuclear question evolves. There is no evidence Iran is close to possessing a deliverable nuclear weapon, but its missiles are a present threat to Israel. Separately, Iran's use of cryptocurrency and illicit networks to evade sanctions has drawn attention. The rial has weakened to roughly 1.28 million per dollar, signaling economic strain from sanctions. Experts say the regime moves income through oil sales to Russia and China and settles payments in cryptocurrency, with funds routed through Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar before reaching proxy groups in Gaza, Lebanon, and Yemen. They note that Gaza's cryptocurrency activity has surged since October 7, and annual crypto inflows and outflows may surpass $100 million, a figure seen as substantial relative to Gaza's traditional economy. Global regulators have long called for tighter controls on crypto to curb sanctions evasion.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, a key GOP senator is opposing the nomination of a Trump appointee over his past remarks about Jews, the Holocaust, and Israel, potentially dooming Jeremy Carl’s bid for a top State Department post. Carl, who is seeking the role of Assistant Secretary of State for International Organization Affairs, drew scrutiny during his confirmation hearing for past writings and statements about Jews, including remarks on a podcast in which he suggested Jews have often loved to play the victim and that the Holocaust dominates much of modern Jewish thinking. Following the hearing, Utah Senator John Curtis, who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations subcommittee, announced he would not support Carl’s nomination, saying his anti-Israel views and insensitive remarks about the Jewish people are incompatible with representing the nation’s interests in international forums.

In Israeli Economy and Business, the Histadrut labor federation announced an official labor dispute in the aviation industry over a plan to establish a Wizz Air base in Israel, warning that allowing the Hungarian airline to operate in the country could affect airport workers' conditions, wages, and rights, including employment security. The union said the decision was made without extensive preparatory work and despite strong reservations from senior members of both the aviation sector and the Transportation Ministry. Histadrut described unilateral decisions as unacceptable and called the move disrespectful to workers, citing the COVID pandemic and missile attacks as examples of the hardships workers have endured. They stressed that such matters require broad national coordination.

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/opinion/article-887055
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-887150
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-887148
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-887147

HEADLINES
Iran defense in depth plan raises risk
US issues ultimatum dismantle Iran nuclear program
First female missile boat commander appointed

The time is now 1:02 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Tehran appears to be prolonging negotiations in Geneva to counter the Trump administration’s push for clear concessions. Iran is also intensifying activity in Lebanon, with reports that attacks have increased and that Hezbollah should not intervene if a war with Iran begins. Separately, Tehran is pressing Hezbollah to join the campaign against Israel; Israeli officials have warned that any intervention would be met with a very painful response, and Israel is preparing for possible involvement by the Houthis and other Iranian proxies across the region. A Wall Street Journal report outlines broader military steps by Tehran, including force deployments and heightened activity in the Strait of Hormuz; it describes a defense-in-depth approach with a decentralized command structure to maintain operational continuity under attack, along with strengthening and shielding nuclear sites and sensitive military facilities, expanding air defenses, and tightening internal controls to curb unrest. Tehran says it does not seek war but is prepared to act if circumstances change.

In the US Policy Concerning Israel, conservative commentator and influencer Tucker Carlson has arrived in Israel to conduct an interview with US Ambassador Mike Huckabee. An E-3 Sentry airborne early warning and control aircraft, DENALI02, departed RAF Mildenhall for the Middle East after arriving from Alaska earlier in the week. Fox News reports that the United States has issued an ultimatum to Iran to dismantle its nuclear program or face other options, with reports noting that negotiations in Geneva were unsuccessful.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, the security cabinet meeting that was set to convene tomorrow has been postponed. The IDF announced the appointment of the first-ever female missile boat commander, Lieutenant-Commander R, a milestone for the navy as more women serve in prominent roles. A group of 20 religious-Zionist rabbis sent a letter to Prime Minister Netanyahu opposing the integration of women into the IDF, warning of potential disaster and urging intervention to prevent what they describe as a spiritual and military weakening. CNN reported that Israel has raised its alert level in the last 24 hours, reflecting heightened caution amid regional tensions.

In Uplifting News, a Holocaust survivor aged 96 has made aliyah to Israel, joining a family already expanded across nine grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren and 11 great-great-grandchildren, many of whom live in Israel.

Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.
I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.
Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.

SOURCES
https://worldisraelnews.com/khamenei-taunts-trump-while-iran-negotiates-in-geneva/
https://t.me/newssil/191938
https://t.me/newssil/191935
https://t.me/newssil/191932
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68884
https://t.me/DefenderDome/18095
https://t.me/DefenderDome/18094
https://t.me/abualiexpress/114945
https://t.me/newssil/191937
https://t.me/JewishNews24/49733
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-887134
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68883
https://worldisraelnews.com/holocaust-survivor-96-makes-aliyah-to-israel/

HEADLINES
Iran fortifies Parchin amid rising tensions
US weighs strike on Iran amid talks
Israel names first female missile boat commander

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, satellite imagery this week shows Iran reinforcing and concealing activities at sensitive sites as tensions with the United States and Israel persist. The images indicate Iran has built a concrete shield over a new facility at a sensitive military site and covered it with soil, part of ongoing work at a location reportedly bombed by Israel in 2024 during the broader tension with the US. Other pictures show Iran burying tunnel entrances at a nuclear site bombed by the US during Israel's 12-day war with Iran last year, fortifying tunnel entrances near another site, and repairing missile bases that had been struck in the conflict. The images offer a window into Iranian activity at sites at the heart of the current tensions with Israel and the United States, with Washington seeking to negotiate a nuclear deal while warning of possible military action if talks fail. Additional imagery shows the Parchin complex, located about 30 kilometers southeast of Tehran, long viewed as a sensitive site linked to past nuclear-related activity; Western intelligence has suggested Tehran conducted tests relevant to nuclear weapon detonations there more than two decades ago, though Iran denies seeking atomic weapons. Israel reportedly struck Parchin in October 2024; satellite imagery taken before and after that attack shows damage to a rectangular building and other changes, underscoring ongoing concern over Iran's program and the broader risk environment.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, reports describe debate within Washington over how to respond to Iran, including discussions about a possible strike. One senior figure allied with President Trump is cited as advocating for action against Iran, reflecting calls from some quarters for a more forceful approach. A separate account highlights another senior American official pressing for a strike, while warning that such action would be taken at the United States’ own responsibility. Together, the items illustrate the ongoing contest over policy options as concerns about Iran’s moves in the region persist and policymakers weigh regional stability and potential consequences of any military action.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, twenty religious Zionist rabbis sent a letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemning the integration of women into the IDF Armored Corps and urging his intervention to prevent what they describe as disaster. The letter, from leaders of Torat Haaretz Hatovah, argues that mixing genders in frontline units clashes with Jewish law and sanctity, and warns that the army’s path toward gender integration could undermine security needs. The rabbis emphasize that divine assistance sustains the IDF and contend that maintaining holiness and modesty in the army is essential, calling on the prime minister to intervene in what they describe as a dangerous trend.

In Uplifting News, the IDF announced the appointment of its first-ever female missile boat commander to lead naval combat operations. Lieutenant Commander R has been chosen to head a vessel at the forefront of naval missions, following a career that has included roles as missile boat deputy commander and commander of a Dvora-class craft, with prior service beginning after entering the captains course in 2016. The army leadership praised the appointment as a milestone in elevating women in combat leadership and highlighted the vessel’s past operational duties, including actions against regional adversaries. Also, a prominent piece from a military psychologist reflects on resilience in the wake of captivity. The author, who debriefs hostages and trains elite units for potential captivity, argues that Israel can turn national trauma into growth. He notes that released hostages did not express a wish to have been killed and emphasizes turning pain into strength as the country faces a pivotal moment with hostages returned.

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-887125
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1286485
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1286484
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-887134
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-887133
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-886976

HEADLINES
UN Security Council tackles West Bank moves
Ford carrier speeds toward Middle East
Manchester foiled deadlist terror attack

The time is now 11:03 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In Pillars of smoke seen in Tehran, Shiraz, following explosions, fires - report, locals reported explosions in the Iranian capital and the southern city of Shiraz on Wednesday, with footage circulating on social media showing pillars of smoke rising from the sites. In Tehran, authorities said the smoke was near Parand in Tehran Province and the state broadcaster said the fire was started by arsonists who set dried reeds along river banks alight. In Shiraz, reports described an explosion in a mountainous area near the city, with no clear official explanation yet. This is a developing story.

In UN Security Council to discuss recent Israeli West Bank policies in urgent meeting, the United Nations Security Council will convene at 10 p.m. on Wednesday for a session addressing the Israeli government's moves to entrench control in the West Bank. The session was initiated by British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, with the foreign ministers of Britain, Pakistan, Indonesia, Egypt, Jordan, and Bahrain expected to participate. Israel will be represented by Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, who is expected to meet with United States Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield prior to the session. Sa’ar left for the United States to attend the inaugural summit of United States President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace in Washington, which is scheduled for Thursday. On Sunday, Israel reopened land registration in Area C for the first time since 1967, an announcement by Justice Minister Yariv Levin, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and Defense Minister Israel Katz. The move comes amid a series of new policies aimed at simplifying property acquisition for Jewish Israelis in Areas A and B of the West Bank.

In The USS Gerald R. Ford is moving at full speed towards the Middle East, and is already expected to cross the Strait of Gibraltar tomorrow. It is currently located off the coast of Morocco. If the aircraft carrier continues at its current speed, it will arrive off the coast of Israel by Sunday morning. Its role from this position could be to assist in intercepting Iranian ballistic missiles. Alternatively, it could continue to the Gulf of Oman for offensive operations against Iran. This would take about 10-12 days.

In WZO invites Mamdani to NYC Israel Day Parade, consul Akunis fires back, World Zionist Organization Chairman Yaakov Hagoel has said he has no authority to invite New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to march in the Israel Day Parade, according to Israeli Consul General in New York Ofir Akunis. Hagoel invited Mamdani at the Besheva Group’s Jerusalem Conference and said he would reiterate the invitation in person if he can meet Mamdani in New York during an upcoming visit. He said he wrote to Mamdani on International Holocaust Memorial Day, and Mamdani did not respond. Akunis responded that he had no authority to issue such an invitation.

Manchester police foiled 'deadlist terror attack' targeted at Jewish community, CST explains how. Community Security Trust released a detailed account of the thwarted plot to kill hundreds of Jews in Manchester, calling it one of the deadliest potential attacks on UK soil. The operation, officially named Catogenic, was described by counterterrorism authorities as the largest and most complex covert investigation in the North West. Walid Saadaoui and Amar Hussein were found guilty of preparing acts of terrorism and were sentenced to minimum terms of 37 and 26 years, respectively; Saadaoui’s younger brother Bilel Saadaoui was imprisoned for failing to inform the police. The defendants were followers of the Islamic State ideology, which has been linked to earlier attacks, including a planned strike on Heaton Park Synagogue in north Manchester.

In Women's integration into Israeli Defense Forces 'disaster': Rabbis send letter to Netanyahu demanding intervention, a group of twenty religious Zionist rabbis sent a letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday condemning the army’s plan to include women in the Armored Corps, saying the move would harm operational resilience and service capability. The letter argues that the army’s strength lies in holiness and modesty and urges the prime minister to intervene to halt the move toward mixed-gender frontline units.

In IDF appoints first-ever female naval missile boat commander to lead naval combat ops, the Israeli Defense Forces announced the appointment of the first-ever female missile boat commander, Lieutenant Commander R. The officer will command a missile boat and lead naval combat operations, a vessel associated with the Devorah class. R joined the navy’s officers’ program in 2016 and has since held roles including deputy commander of a missile boat and commander of a Devorah-class vessel. Navy leadership praised the appointment as a milestone in expanding women’s roles in combat operations.

In Israeli entrepreneurs create ‘Semantics Engineering,’ aiming to solve enterprise AI context crisis, Israeli founders Yoni Leitersdorf and Tal Segalov announced a $20 million seed round for Solid, an AI platform designed to fix the so‑called context crisis in enterprise AI. The company says that in large organizations, key metrics are defined differently across teams and tools, leading to conflicting reports and slow decision-making. Solid’s platform automatically discovers, documents, and builds business-aware semantic models from a company’s data to ensure AI systems can reliably understand and operate on that data.

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-887125
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-887108
https://t.me/selena_updates/55425
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-887115
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-887111
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-887134
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-887133
https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/tech-and-start-ups/article-887054