HEADLINES
Iran teeters on collapse US must act
130 lawyers defend IDF in war probes
Lapid warns unity crucial to defeat Netanyahu

The time is now 2:01 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, Senator Lindsey Graham told The Jerusalem Post that the Iranian regime is teetering on the edge of collapse and that the United States must follow through on its promises to aid the Iranian people or risk facing a catastrophe worse than Afghanistan, with risks to the Abraham Accords if the regime survives. He spoke after meetings with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, opposition leader Yair Lapid, and other senior officials, and after participating in a rally of about 250,000 anti-Iranian regime protesters. He described a historic window of opportunity that could reshape the Middle East for a long time. "Without the October 7 massacre happening, I don't believe Iran would be on the verge of regime collapse," Graham said. "The determination of the Israeli people to make sure 'Never Again' has meaning has weakened Iran and their proxies, unlike any time since the founding of the religious Nazi state in 1979," he said, linking the regime's vulnerability to Israel's military response following the massacre.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), up to 130 international lawyers protected IDF from war crimes charges as it fought in Gaza, the exclusive reporting shows. The Israeli Defense Forces received ongoing operational legal advice throughout the war, with as many as three dozen full-time Israeli Law Department lawyers and about 100 reservist advisers embedded with frontline units, some near the high command and others at regional headquarters or in division posts. This surge in legal staff occurred as as many as 50,000 IDF infantry and tanks were operating across Gaza on multiple fronts, a scale that tested the system for timely guidance. The effort helped the commanders navigate a vast array of legal questions as the military conducted operations, and officials say the robust legal oversight may help address potential war-crimes charges once probes are completed.

In the Israeli Domestic Politics, two developments frame the day. In Bnei Brak, scenes of violence by a fringe element drew swift condemnation from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and opposition leaders, with heads of haredi parties and rabbinical figures also speaking out. A mob hurled objects at two female IDF soldiers, police had to extract them from the scene, a police motorcycle was set alight, and a tefillin and a prayer book were burned in the vehicle’s storage; three officers were injured and about 27 people were arrested, most of whom were released by Monday afternoon, with two under house arrest. The episode underscored a broader question about boundaries and accountability within the community, with leaders insisting the violence did not represent the mainstream.
Separately, opposition leader Yair Lapid warned that only his Yesh Atid party could form a government to defeat Netanyahu, urging unity among opposition factions ahead of elections no later than October. He said the camp is fragmented and that unity is essential not for party size but for the country’s future, insisting that if rival groups fail to unite, their chances of victory will fade despite polling.

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-886871
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-886872
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886876
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-886866

HEADLINES
Tabriz gas facility explosion sparks regional crisis
Lapid urges unity to defeat Netanyahu
Israel Egypt border tensions prompt restraint appeals

The time is now 1:01 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, a significant explosion rocked the city of Tabriz at a gas facility operated by the Iranian company NikGas, with officials saying the cause is not yet known as authorities assess the broader regional implications. Reports describe a broad operation underway, with some mentioning US actions described as spreading “nuclear energy.” In Geneva, Iran’s foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian’s counterpart, Abas Arakchi, met with the Iranian foreign minister and discussed matters with the Omani foreign minister. In Lebanon, a vehicle was struck by an Israeli UAV in the village of Talousa in southern Lebanon, underscoring the spillover of regional tensions. Satellite imagery from Sentinel-2 obtained by the BBC shows the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) continuing to operate in the Northern Arabian Sea off the coast of Oman amid heightened tensions with Iran. Iranian intelligence is reportedly monitoring betting markets in Tehran to see if officials in Israel are wagering on the timing of any strike to profit from the moves.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, Senator Lindsey Graham said at a Tel Aviv press conference after meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu that there is no gap between what Bibi wants and what Trump wants.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Spike Lee and Kyrie Irving wore pro-Palestinian outfits at the NBA All-Star Game in a show featuring Israeli player Deni Avdija, with Avdija scoring five points and wearing Team World colors that included an Israeli flag on the back of his jersey, while LeBron James drew online backlash after praising Israel and saying he hoped to inspire people there. On the ground near the Israel-Egypt border, leaders warn of heightened security concerns as tensions rise and residents voice fears of renewed violence, calling for steady policing and restraint from authorities. In Washington, the US ambassador to Belgium urged Belgium to drop what it called a ridiculous and anti-Semitic investigation of mohels, highlighting ongoing international debates over Jewish religious practices.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid warned that unity is essential if the opposition hopes to defeat Prime Minister Netanyahu, arguing that the liberal camp must present a united front. Clashes in Bnei Brak between police and protesters over conscription policies drew attention to longstanding tensions within the ultra-Orthodox community, with observers noting a pattern of friction between the state and parts of Haredi society and calls for restraint from security forces. A Lod district court judge said there is reasonable suspicion in the Braverman affair strengthened by recent developments, as authorities seek to restrict travel and tighten contact with key figures in the Prime Minister’s Office amid the broad probe linked to the “midnight meeting” and the broader leakage investigations. Social activist Omri Ronen announced he would join The Democrats Party ahead of elections described as fateful for Israel, saying he cannot stand by as the country faces its future. Amid the political discourse, some voices emphasize the need for prudence in how authorities handle protests in Haredi cities.

In Uplifting News, Israeli soldiers sharing the human cost of war described the ten-day visit that began in Florida with meetings at the University of Miami and Florida International University, then in Washington, DC, and New York, shedding light on the personal experiences behind the headlines.

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.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285637
https://t.me/newssil/191673
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68804
https://t.me/DefenderDome/18014
https://t.me/newssil/191672
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68805
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-886860
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285635
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-886859
https://worldisraelnews.com/us-ambassador-demands-that-belgium-drop-ridiculous-and-anti-semitic-investigation-of-mohels/
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-886866
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886867
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886865
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-886862
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/bybnxaluzx
https://worldisraelnews.com/if-we-dont-tell-our-story-the-lies-win-israeli-soldiers-share-the-human-cost-of-war/

HEADLINES
- Ramadan Tensions Rise as Iran Proxies Target
- Jerusalem Deploys Hundreds for Ramadan Security
- Graham Says Iran Strike Within Weeks

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, Israeli security officials warn that Ramadan could be a particularly tense period, with a range of threats from lone attackers to organized plots. The security establishment says it is prepared for a high tempo of operations and has reinforced readiness in the West Bank as Ramadan begins. Iran is assessed as seeking to spark trouble in the Palestinian territories to draw global attention and blunt pressure on Tehran, potentially opening fronts that keep Israel focused and complicate foreign calculations during the month.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), Jerusalem Police have completed Ramadan 2026 security preparations, deploying hundreds of officers across the city with a focus on the Old City and the Temple Mount. The aim is to enable freedom of worship for people of all faiths while preserving security and public order, a balance that has proved delicate on sensitive days. Police will operate around the clock near the Temple Mount and the Old City, with Friday deployments expanded to manage large crowds and ensure traffic flows through perimeter crossings to the Old City.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, Senator Lindsey Graham, a close ally of President Trump, said that a potential strike on Iran would come in weeks rather than months, signaling a sense of urgency among policymakers who favor a swift approach to potential military action.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Spike Lee and Kyrie Irving wore pro-Palestinian outfits at the NBA All-Star Game that featured Israeli player Deni Avdija. Lee wore a keffiyeh-patterned sweater and flag badges, while Irving wore a Wear the Peace “PRESS” shirt dedicated to journalists in Gaza. Avdija, the Israeli on Team World, contributed five points, four assists, and one dunk in the game as part of the visible presence of Israeli athletes on the global stage.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, social activist and reservist Omri Ronen announced he will join The Democrats Party ahead of the upcoming elections, saying he cannot sit on the sidelines and that the country needs people who will take responsibility. Ronen, a leader of the Brothers and Sisters in Arms who protested judicial reforms and served in reserve during the October 7 Hamas attacks, has emphasized rebuilding and renewal in his public statements ahead of the vote.

In Uplifting News, Israeli actress Shira Haas will star in Triumph of the Will, a WWII-period film described by Variety as a sprawling project set in 1937–Berlin, with Haas portraying a woman who escapes to help Jews flee Nazi-occupied Europe. The project is written and directed by American filmmaker Gabriel Nussbaum. In the same context, LeBron James faced online backlash after praising Israel while speaking about Deni Avdija, noting he had heard “nothing but great things” about Israel and expressing a desire to visit, a comment that drew criticism from various observers online.

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.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285613
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285611
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285610
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886863
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285618
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-886860
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-886854
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-886862
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-886861
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-886859

HEADLINES
US deploys emergent MOPs for Iran strike
LeBron James faces backlash praising Israel
Elderly Israeli-Jewish women expelled in Madrid

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

In US Policy Concerning Israel, the question of whether the US can destroy the Pickaxe Mountain facility and end Iran's nuclear program remains an intelligence and capabilities assessment. Reports on Friday that Washington is ordering an additional round of 30,000-pound Massive Ordnance Penetrator bunker buster bombs on an emergent basis have renewed the debate over whether the American military could carry out such a strike if it were decided. Analysts point to two avenues for analysis: first, the fact that the United States ordered new mega bunker buster bombs for the first time in years, and on an emergent basis, without a standard competitive bidding process; second, differences between the defensive situation at Pickaxe Mountain, the largest remaining Iranian facility, which lies beneath a mountain, versus Fordow, the Islamic Republic's key facility under a different mountain that the US bombed with 12 MOPs in June 2025. Regarding the orders for bunker busters, the piece notes there are positive and negative points. Positive points include that the orders were issued for the same bombs and not for a new, larger weapon still in development; negative aspects reflect the emergency nature of the move. The analysis frames the question as one that hinges on intelligence, defense capabilities, and strategic considerations rather than a simple yes or no.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, LeBron James faced online backlash after praising Israeli player Deni Avdija and saying he had heard "nothing but great things" about Israel. The comments came ahead of the NBA All-Star Game in Inglewood, California, and sparked a social media backlash with critics questioning the remarks. A separate assessment noted the backlash to James's comments as jarring and predictable, framing the moment around Avdija’s milestone as the first Israeli to appear in an NBA All-Star Game and the ensuing reaction online. Separately, three elderly Israeli-Jewish women, wearing Stars of David and carrying an Israeli flag, were expelled from Madrid’s Reina Sofía National Museum of Art after some visitors shouted antisemitic slurs, including references to genocide and killers. The staff asked the women to leave, a move contested by witnesses who argued the display of symbols is legal, and the museum—publicly funded—became the focus of concern about antisemitic harassment in public spaces.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, the IDF clashes with police over a Bnei Brak incident as military officials dispute a police claim that the female commanders who arrived there were distributing recruitment leaflets. The IDF spokesperson said the assertion was incorrect, explaining the soldiers came for a home visit to a pre-draft candidate prior to enlistment. The leaflets in the soldiers’ possession were described as an informational booklet provided to every recruit at the Havat Hashomer base, outlining the enlistment process and required equipment. A military source criticized the police response as disrespectful, and the IDF expressed frustration with the police’s attempt to justify the statement issued by the Tel Aviv District Commander.

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-886858
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-886859
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-886854
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-886852
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-886831

HEADLINES
India intercepts three sanctioned tankers near Mumbai
Italy trains Gaza police amid stabilization push
France: Jews targeted in 53% anti-religious acts

The time is now 10:02 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, India seized three US-sanctioned tanker ships linked to Iran this month and has stepped up surveillance in its maritime zone to curb illicit trade, a source said. The aim is to prevent ship-to-ship transfers that obscure the origin of oil cargoes. The vessels Stellar Ruby, Asphalt Star, and Al Jafzia, whose owners are overseas, were intercepted about 100 nautical miles west of Mumbai and escorted to Mumbai for further investigation. The Indian Coast Guard has deployed in the area. The move comes as Washington and New Delhi have strengthened ties, including a cut in import tariffs on Indian goods to 18% from 50% after New Delhi agreed to stop Russian oil imports.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), Italy ready to help train police forces in Gaza, Palestinian territories, FM says. Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Rome is ready to train a new Gaza police force and a Palestinian police force, as Rome aims to help stabilize the Middle East. Bloomberg previously reported that the United States proposed Italy join the International Stabilization Force for Gaza as a founding member; the proposal would not require Italian troops to be physically present in Gaza but would involve Italy training Gazan police. Tajani confirmed Rome was ready to participate as an observer in Donald Trump’s Board of Peace initiative and was invited to attend a meeting in Washington this week. Italy officially rejected an invitation to join the board, citing constitutional barriers that prevent it from joining international organizations in which the group would operate.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, What did the Netanyahu-Trump meeting on Iran accomplish? - opinion. The piece notes that the 165-minute meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last Wednesday was not accompanied by an operational briefing and left readers without a clear read on outcomes. There are heavy issues on the agenda, and the outcome is described as resting largely with Trump, including questions about whether negotiations are preferable to a military operation, what is meant by the term “settlement,” and what might convince Trump that negotiations have failed.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Jews were the target of 53% of antireligious acts in France in 2025. The Interior Ministry's Anti-Religious Acts Report 2025 shows nearly 2,500 anti-religious acts were carried out last year, with antisemitic acts numbering 1,320 and representing 53% of the total. While antisemitic acts were down 16% from 2024, they remain at historically high levels since the October 7, 2023 attack. The report notes multiple high-profile antisemitic assaults, including attacks on Rabbi Arié Engelberg and Rabbi Elie Lemmel, and that verbal or online hatred accounted for 67% of the antisemitic acts. The ministry also recorded 843 anti-Christian acts (up 9%), most of which were property crimes, while anti-Muslim acts numbered 326.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, IDF clashes with police over Bnei Brak incident, says attacked soldiers did not distribute leaflets. The IDF spokesperson rejected a police claim that the female soldiers attacked in Bnei Brak were there to distribute recruitment flyers, saying the soldiers had come for a home visit to a pre-draft candidate prior to enlistment. The leaflets in the soldiers’ possession were an informational booklet given to every recruit at the Havat Hashomer base, and the military source said the police’s explanation was inappropriate. The IDF added that the police had acted disrespectfully toward the soldiers.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, Haredi protests block Jerusalem entrance, Highway 38. Ultra-Orthodox protesters blocked the main road into Jerusalem and Highway 38, disrupting traffic before police reported they had dispersed the 38 corridor. The demonstrations followed strong unrest in Bnei Brak a day earlier, where dozens of protesters were arrested; many were released to house arrest. Former prime minister Naftali Bennett condemned the clashes, calling the events an “anarchy,” and vowing that governance would be restored.

In Uplifting News, גלי צה"ל פספסו להיט - ושלמה גרוניך הרוויח אגדה | דודי פטימר. The reports recount that singer Solomon Gronich challenged the radio station’s handling of his work, calling a senior editor and arguing that the audience preferred simpler songs. After releasing a new song, Gronich performed it on air, and the piece became one of his most enduring hits, a turning point tied to collaborations with Mati Kaspi and other longtime partners. The narrative frames his protest as a catalyst for a landmark moment in his career, highlighted by his earlier work and collaborations.

In Uplifting News, המחאה של שלמה גרוניך על גלי צה"ל הולידה את אחד הלהיטים הגדולים שלו. The feature traces Gronich’s career arc, noting how his early experimental approach and his later collaborations—alongside Mati Kaspi and others as part of a notable ensemble—led to a breakthrough hit that marked a turning point in Israeli music, illustrating how a stance against the establishment can become a celebrated milestone in an artist’s trajectory.

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-886849
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-886845
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-886719
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-886842
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-886831
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886841
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285555
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285554
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285551

HEADLINES
Italy trains Gaza and Palestinian police now
Haredi protests shut Jerusalem roads over draft
Australians freed from Syria camp head home

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

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), Italy said it stands ready to help train police forces in Gaza and the Palestinian territories. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced at a Rome news conference that Italy is prepared to train a new Gaza police force as well as a Palestinian police force, as Rome aims to play a role in stabilizing the Middle East. Tajani also confirmed Italy’s readiness to participate as an observer in the US-led Board of Peace initiative and said Rome had been invited to attend a meeting in Washington this week. This is a developing story.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is meeting with Republican Senator Lindsey Graham in Jerusalem, a visit described as taking place amid broad US support for Israel.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, France’s interior ministry reports that Jews accounted for 53% of antisemitic acts in 2025, out of about 2,500 anti-religious acts overall, with 1,320 antisemitic acts; the total is down about 16% from 2024 but remains at historically high levels since the October 7, 2023 attack, and 67% of antisemitic acts were verbal or online. The report also notes 843 anti-Christian acts, representing 34% of total anti-religious acts, most of which were property crimes. Separately, a coalition within the American Psychological Association argues against recognizing the Association of Jewish Psychologists as an Ethnic Psychological Association, contending that most Jews identify as white and warning that conflating religion, race, and ethnicity obscures the history of racism and white privilege. In the UK, a minister writes that Britain is committed to protecting its Jewish community, noting that in 2025 the Community Security Trust recorded more than 3,700 antisemitic incidents—the second-highest figure on record—reflecting a global rise in antisemitism since the Hamas-backed October 7, 2023 attacks.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, Haredi protesters blocked the main road in and out of Jerusalem and a section of Highway 38 in a demonstration against mandatory military service, with police later dispersing demonstrators on 38. The protest followed large demonstrations in Bnei Brak after two female soldiers visited a pre-draft candidate at home. At least 26 Haredim were arrested in Sunday's protest, though most were released to house arrest; footage showed a mob flipping a car and pursuing the soldiers until police intervened. Former prime minister Naftali Bennett condemned the incident as “anarchy” and pledged to restore governance.

In Uplifting News, 34 Australians have been released from a camp in northern Syria holding families of suspected Islamic State terrorists and were placed on buses to Damascus ahead of a flight home to Australia. The detainees, who will be flown from Damascus, were released to their families, who had traveled to Syria for the releases. The Roj camp houses more than 2,000 people from 40 nationalities, many of them women and children.

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-886845
https://t.me/Newss0nline/58643
https://t.me/newssil/191630
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-886842
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-886837
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-886714
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886841
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-886838

HEADLINES
IRGC Drills Hormuz Strait, Raising Tensions
Hamas Uses Emojis to Signal Mobilization
Israeli Court Weighs Gazan Patients' Entry

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps navy conducted a combined live and targeted drill in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, named "Smart Control of Hormuz Strait," to test the readiness of naval operations and review security plans for reciprocal action in the maritime domain, overseen by IRGC Commander-in-Chief Major General Mohammad Pakpour. Iranian officials described the exercise as aimed at ensuring readiness against possible security and military threats. The IRGC report said the drill would deliver a decisive response to any anti-security plots in the maritime domain, as Tehran braces for potential action by the United States and has recently fortified nuclear facilities damaged in June. Retired Vice Admiral Robert Harward, former deputy commander of US Central Command, said Iran has been increasing inflammatory rhetoric and appears to be preparing for confrontation with the United States.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), Hamas used emojis as code before Oct 7, according to a Jerusalem Post roundup of top stories. Findings from an IDF General Staff investigation indicate Hamas’s military wing began sending coded emoji messages on WhatsApp to operatives’ phones just hours before the October 7, 2023 attack, signaling operatives to mobilize to mosques for last-minute instructions, where they received briefings and were directed to retrieve equipment from home or pre-stocked combat bags. Some operatives were instructed to replace Palestinian SIM cards with Israeli ones to disrupt Israeli intelligence tracking. The IDF probe describe multiple indicators overnight suggesting Hamas was moving toward a broad attack. Separately, Israel’s top court is set to hear a petition demanding the government grant entry to thousands of Gazan patients and their families. And six more Hamas terrorists were eliminated inside the tunnels east of Rafah.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, EU Commissioner Dubravka Suica will travel to Washington to attend a meeting of the Board of Peace as an observer, in a show of EU participation focused on Gaza ceasefire and post-war recovery, with Brussels stressing it is not joining the board as a member and that no commitment has been made yet. The invitation to the EU comes after President Trump invited the bloc to join the talks, a proposal Brussels has viewed cautiously. Separately, Israel’s Foreign Minister hosted Finland’s Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen in Jerusalem, the first such visit since 2016, a gathering described as a potential step in strengthening ties between the two countries.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, a coalition of minority ethnic psychologists within the American Psychological Association has rejected recognizing the Association of Jewish Psychologists as an Ethnic Psychological Association, arguing that most Jews identify as white and cautioning against conflating religion, race and ethnicity, a move the coalition says could obscure issues of racism and white privilege. The coalition, the Coalition of National Racial and Ethnic Psychological Associations, represents about 2,000 members across six groups. In the UK, a minister writes that Britain remains committed to its Jewish community and will stand against antisemitism, noting that antisemitic incidents in 2025 were among the highest recorded, underscoring a global challenge since the Hamas attack in October 2023.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, seven suspects were detained for allegedly defrauding wartime evacuation grants by changing their registered home addresses to northern Israel to create the impression they had been evacuated, with police and Lahav 433 working with the National Insurance Institute on the probe, which prosecutors say involved millions of shekels in public funds during a period of national emergency. A separate Hebrew-language report notes a protest by extremist Haredim near Beit Shemesh.

In Uplifting News, a great morning at Connect with Pastor Bob and Becky Kopeny, discussing America, Israel, ministry, technology, and life’s challenges.

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

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-886830
https://t.me/selena_updates/55326
https://t.me/ILtoday/16954
https://www.jpost.com/podcast/jpost-headlines/article-886836
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-886826
https://worldisraelnews.com/supreme-court-petition-could-force-israel-to-allow-in-thousands-of-gazans/
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68790
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-886833
https://t.me/hnaftali/21272
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-886837
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-886714
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-886810
https://t.me/newssil/191626
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68792

HEADLINES
Iran Navy drills Hormuz Strait amid talks
Hamas emoji signals mobilization before Oct 7
Trump backs Israeli strikes on Iran

The time is now 7:02 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Iran's Revolutionary Guards navy conducted a maritime drill in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, named Smart Control of Hormuz Strait, to test the readiness of operational forces in the face of possible security and military threats. Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, ruled out partial Hamas disarmament and said Iran must surrender its uranium stockpile as a condition for implementing phase two of Gaza plans and for Israel to accept a new nuclear deal with Iran. The IAEA chief, Rafael Grossi, met the Iranian Foreign Minister ahead of renewed US-Iran nuclear talks in Geneva, describing in-depth technical discussions. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said he would meet the IAEA chief ahead of the talks and called for a fair, equitable deal, stressing that submission before threats is not on the table; Tehran has been focused on discussions limited to its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief, while the United States has dispatched a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East as talks proceed and indirect discussions have occurred, including earlier talks in Oman and signaling willingness by Iran to compromise in return for relief.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), Hamas’s military wing began sending coded emoji messages on WhatsApp to operatives’ phones just hours before the October 7, 2023 attack, using the symbols as signals to mobilize terrorists to mosques for last-minute instructions. Findings from an IDF General Staff investigation, drawing on intelligence collected during fighting, indicate the emoji traffic was one of several warning signs that Hamas was preparing for a broad assault. According to the probe, once operatives received the emoji signal, they moved to mosques or designated collection points, where they received briefings and were directed to retrieve equipment from home or from pre-stocked “combat bags.” Some operatives were instructed to replace Palestinian SIM cards with Israeli ones to expand the ability to map movement while complicating Israeli intelligence tracking.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, President Donald Trump reportedly told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the United States will back Israeli airstrikes on Iran's missile program if negotiations fail.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, the father of a three-year-old boy publicly criticized the court's decision to release Irina Rimer, the 53-year-old nurse charged with alleged physical abuse at the Reuth Rehabilitation Center in Tel Aviv, calling the ruling a scandal and saying the severity of the act must be acknowledged. Former Netanyahu aide Asher Hiyon died suddenly at age 58, with longtime observers noting his trusted role in the prime minister's circle. A suspicious envelope sent to the Prime Minister’s Office was reported, with initial inspections showing indicators and the item handled under security protocols.

In Uplifting News, Israel Post’s Philatelic Service issued an official stamp marking 30 years since the establishment of the IDF Combat Engineering Corps’ Yahalom Unit. The ceremony at the Yahalom base in Camp Immanuel saw Israel Post CEO David Laron present the first stamp sheet to the unit’s commander. Yahalom, formed in 1995 from the merger of the bomb disposal unit and Sayeret Yael, is a premier unit within the Combat Engineering Corps and the IDF Ground Forces, merging commando-style combat with engineering and technology to carry out explosive ordnance disposal, breaching, maneuver support, and locating and destroying underground infrastructure. Separately, reports from Israel highlight a festival in which Eran Zahavi is at the center, with Omar Adam performing at 16:00 and a techno DJ set later, while a separate family event marked a son’s Bar Mitzvah with a large synagogue at the GAVRIEL complex, seating guests in three concurrent spaces and signaling a major public celebration.

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-886830
https://worldisraelnews.com/netanyahu-rules-out-partial-hamas-disarmament-says-iran-must-surrender-uranium-stockpile/
https://worldisraelnews.com/iaea-chief-meets-iranian-fm-ahead-of-us-nuclear-talks-in-geneva/
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-886813
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-886826
https://worldisraelnews.com/trump-told-netanyahu-us-will-back-israeli-strikes-if-negotiations-fail-report/
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-886818
https://t.me/Newss0nline/58641
https://worldisraelnews.com/suspicious-envelope-sent-to-prime-ministers-office/
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-886816
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285478
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285477
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285475

HEADLINES
IDF Hits Hezbollah Infrastructure in Lebanon
Hamas Used WhatsApp Emojis to Mobilize
US Replenishes Bunker Buster Bombs Against Iran

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the IDF says it struck and killed a terrorist involved in efforts to rebuild Hezbollah infrastructure in the Hanin area of southern Lebanon, a move the army says violated the ceasefire framework and threatened Israel’s northern communities. Over the past week, troops under the 91st Division eliminated three additional militants tied to the effort to restore Hezbollah infrastructure, and forces dismantled several structures and engineering vehicles used to advance planned attacks. Overnight, several Israeli citizens crossed the Syrian border illegally; the IDF arrived at the border, returned them to Israel, and handed them over to police, with authorities saying the motive remains unconfirmed and warning of risks to civilians and troops. In broader regional signals, the Taliban spokesman said they would assist Iran if Iran is attacked in wartime. In diplomacy, Iran says a deal delivering economic benefits to both sides—including energy, mining and aircraft deals—remains on the table in ongoing nuclear talks with the United States, with discussions likely to continue in Geneva under a US delegation led by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Separately, an Arab Israeli man was arrested for spying on former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on behalf of Iran.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), Hamas’s military wing was found to have used coded emoji messages on WhatsApp to mobilize operatives hours before the October 7 attack, signaling last-minute instructions to move to mosques for briefing and to retrieve equipment from home or pre-prepared combat bags. Some operatives replaced Palestinian SIM cards with Israeli numbers to expand movement mapping and disrupt Israeli tracking, with a broader set of indicators pointing to preparations for a large-scale assault. Separately, authorities found bones outside Jerusalem that may belong to a Finnish tourist who went missing in March 2024, and a foreign passport linked to that missing person was recovered; police are pursuing forensic identification. In Rafah, the Israeli military said nine Hamas militants were killed in tunnels during operations over the past week as part of efforts against Hamas positions.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, the United States continues to deepen its regional footprint, with at least 163 flights by heavy cargo aircraft from the United States and Japan bound for the Middle East in the past month. The Pentagon has also moved to replenish its stock of GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator bunker buster bombs, awarding Boeing a sole-source contract to restore inventory used in operations against Iranian facilities; officials say the procurement is essential to maintain the capability and avoid delays that would come with a competitive award.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, Harmony Laboratories is urging a voluntary recall of three products from the DREAMORE line that were marketed without Health Ministry approval: hair treatment ampoules, a keratin serum, and a keratin mask. The Health Ministry asks customers to return the items to the point of purchase or to contact the marketer at 0534430843 for the recall process. In another development, Minister Bezalel Smotrich is quoted as saying, “We have not finished with Iran; we cannot speak about it yet.”

In Israeli Economy and Business, Turkey has shipped Patton M48 and M60 (Magach) tanks to Mogadishu, Somalia, a move noted as Turkey’s latest arms assistance to the region. Israeli defense industry previously refined and upgraded similar tanks for the Turkish army, known as the Sabra.

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/defense-news/article-886784
https://t.me/newssil/191611
https://t.me/selena_updates/55321
https://worldisraelnews.com/iran-surveilled-former-israeli-defense-minister/
https://worldisraelnews.com/idf-strikes-hezbollah-and-islamic-jihad-terrorists-in-lebanon/
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-886826
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886807
https://t.me/abualiexpress/114776
https://t.me/newssil/191612
https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-886799
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285445
https://t.me/newssil/191610
https://t.me/abualiexpress/114777

HEADLINES
Iran eyes fair deal in Geneva talks
IDF kills Hezbollah operative in Lebanon
US awards Boeing MOP replenishment contract

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said he will meet the UN nuclear watchdog chief on Monday in Geneva, ahead of US-Iran talks aimed at resolving their dispute over Tehran’s nuclear program and averting conflict as US warships deploy to the Middle East. Araghchi said he is in Geneva with real ideas to achieve a fair and equitable deal and that submission before threats is not on the table. The talks come after indirect discussions in Oman earlier this month. Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi signaled Iran’s willingness to compromise on its nuclear program in return for sanctions relief, telling the BBC that the ball is in America’s court to prove they want to do a deal. Washington has dispatched a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East and is preparing for a possible sustained military campaign if talks do not succeed, while Tehran has pressed that discussions should focus on curbs to its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief and has rejected broader talks on missiles.

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the IDF said it struck and killed a terrorist involved in efforts to rebuild Hezbollah infrastructure in the Hanin area of southern Lebanon, saying the operative’s activity violated the ceasefire framework and posed a threat to Israel’s northern communities. The army noted that over the past week troops eliminated three additional terrorists linked to attempts to restore Hezbollah infrastructure and dismantled several structures and engineering vehicles used to advance attacks in the area. This is part of ongoing tensions tied to Iran’s regional proxies and the broader security environment.

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the US Air Force has awarded Boeing a sole-source contract to replenish its arsenal of GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator bunker-buster bombs. The move comes after the United States used more than a dozen MOPs on Iranian nuclear facilities during Operation Midnight Hammer. The defense department justification notes Boeing is uniquely positioned with 18 years of expertise in adapting the weapon to evolving mission needs, and that awarding a competitive tender would risk unacceptable delays in replenishing the inventory.

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, an Israeli resident was indicted on charges of gathering intelligence on a senior Israeli official, allegedly at the direction of an Iranian intelligence operative. Investigators found the individual had been in contact with a foreign agent and received payments for assignments aimed at harming state security. The senior official targeted has not been publicly identified, though Israeli media identified him as former defense minister Yoav Gallant. This case is described by security authorities as part of Tehran’s ongoing intelligence activity inside Israel.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), former US congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene posted that she met Bethlehem’s mayor and praised Bethlehem as the birthplace of Jesus, while also condemning alleged Christian persecution in the area. The Bethlehem mayor, Maher Nicola Canawati, described Christians being killed in Gaza bombings and churches being attacked, adding that residents want peace with Jewish and Muslim neighbors but that settlers continue to take homes. Greene was given a commemorative medal and a Church of the Nativity relic during the visit.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), the government’s secretary Yael Oz or a similarly named official, as reported in Hebrew coverage, stated that Hamas must be disarmed within 60 days or Israel will return to a harsh military posture in Gaza, warning that if the goal isn’t met, Israeli forces will ensure it happens. The remarks touched on broader security and political issues, including disputes over conscription and unrest in nearby areas.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), Israeli police said seven people were arrested and eight others deported after stopping a vehicle carrying 15 Palestinian residents suspected of entering Israel illegally to work in Bnei Brak. The operation, carried out by officers from the Shalem Police Station under the Shield of the Capital initiative, aimed to enforce laws against illegal entry and stay, maintain security in the capital, and prevent terrorist infiltration. Police noted the group included individuals with criminal records and that the remainder were sent back to the West Bank for processing.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), a suspicious envelope arrived at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office and was examined on site by Israel Police forensic personnel who ruled out an explosive threat. The envelope was subsequently sent to a biological laboratory in Ness Ziona for further testing, with authorities saying the package was handled per protocol and did not threaten workers. An unnamed source indicated the envelope possibly contained ampoules of an unknown substance, though officials stressed there is no danger.

In the Israeli Economy and Business sector, the annual inflation rate in Israel fell sharply from 2.6% to 1.8%, a drop described as excellent and now hovering beneath the Bank of Israel’s target range of 1% to 3%. The decline is driven by the 12-month price comparison, with January’s low base and a subdued monthly index, and it has raised the likelihood of another interest-rate cut at the Bank of Israel’s next decision on February 23. Analysts from the stock market research unit say that as inflation cools, the current rate policy could become overly restrictive for the economy, with the policy tilt balancing lower inflation against the broader geopolitical and budgetary considerations facing the country.

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

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-886813
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-886784
https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-886799
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-886790
https://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-886776
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285423
https://www.israelhayom.com/2026/02/16/idf-soldier-investigation-unauthorized-gaza-interview/
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285422
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886777
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886781
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285413