HEADLINES
Hard line urged to topple Tehran regime
Israel destroys Jama’a al-Islamiya cache in Syria
White House: Trump opposes West Bank annexation

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, an editorial argues that Western leaders must confront Tehran with moral clarity and a strategy designed to hasten the regime’s downfall rather than more talks. As Prime Minister Netanyahu prepares to visit the United States to meet President Trump, the piece says the moment calls for a hard moral stance, not only deterrence but a plan to end a regime deemed unworthy of engagement. It notes Tehran has used negotiation to buy time while inflicting brutality at home and terror across the region. Since late December, nationwide protests have erupted amid economic collapse and political stagnation, with tallies showing tens of thousands killed in the crackdown, estimates ranging from about 30,000 to 36,500, and a longer history of repression traced back to the 2021 Woman, Life, Freedom movement in which hundreds were killed and thousands wounded or detained as Iranians rose up. Separately, satellite imagery shows every entrance to the underground tunnel complex at Esfahan now sealed, with documentation provided. In another development, Israeli forces under the 210th Division conducted a dramatic overnight operation on Syrian soil in the Beit Jen area of southern Syria, locating and destroying a stockpile of weapons associated with the Jama’a al-Islamiya organization. The cache included weapons, mines and communications equipment, and the IDF said the group has sought to promote further attacks against Israel and its civilians in the northern theater. The operation is described as part of a continuing effort to remove terrorist threats and to protect Israeli civilians, including in the Golan Heights region.

In the US Policy Concerning Israel, a White House official told American outlets that Trump made his position explicit: he opposes Israel’s annexation of the West Bank. The finding reflects a clear stance from the White House regarding a sensitive policy debate about the future status of the territory and the pace of any potential annexation moves.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, activists protesting violence in the Arab sector painted fountains red in Haifa, Tel Aviv and Beersheba. Families of those killed in the Arab community and protesters from the Standing Together movement joined the action, with Haifa’s memorial garden fountain, Tel Aviv’s Knesset fountain, and Beersheba’s northern city entrance all colored red. Some protesters briefly blocked access to Jerusalem near the Bridge of Strings before police dispersed the crowd and two demonstrators were arrested. Ahead of the day’s action, families of victims announced a national disruption, urging the public to wear black to work and to stop work between 11:00 and 13:00. The Forum of Families of the Victims said, “We who paid with our lives, our brothers, sisters, parents and relatives, say enough,” underscoring the call for solidarity and change.

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-886136
https://t.me/newssil/190834
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1283095
https://t.me/newssil/190836
https://t.me/newssil/190832

HEADLINES
- Iran crisis looms as Netanyahu meets Trump
- Gaza child barred from cancer treatment
- US opposes West Bank annexation moves

The time is now 12:01 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 world stands at a perilous crossroads as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to visit US President Donald Trump, a meeting certain to focus on Iran. There is a moral imperative for Western leaders to confront Tehran not with standard diplomatic formulas but with a strategy designed to hasten the downfall of a regime that has repeatedly proven itself unworthy of engagement. Tehran’s clerical regime has answered dissent with bloodshed on an unprecedented scale, and since late December nationwide protests have erupted amid economic collapse and political stagnation. Emergent tallies put fatalities in the tens of thousands, with figures ranging roughly from 30,000 to 36,500, not counting the broader history of repression. In the long arc of dissent, the 2021 Woman, Life, Freedom movement began after Mahsa Amini’s death in custody, marking a period when hundreds were killed and thousands more wounded or detained as Iranians spoke out.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), a Gazan child living in the West Bank was refused entry to Israel to receive cancer treatment despite doctors in Ramallah having been in contact with Tel Hashomer Hospital, where practitioners expressed willingness to treat him. The Jerusalem District Court rejected the petition to permit entry, a decision reported by Gisha Legal Center for Freedom of Movement, which has represented the family since November 2025. The child, who moved from Gaza to the West Bank in 2022 to access care not available in the Strip, faced a series of treatments beyond the West Bank’s reach, including cancer immunotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. The court’s ruling noted that, despite the child’s immediate danger, it would not intervene in the government’s decision, effectively establishing a precedent that restricts Gaza patients from entering Israel, a practice that did not exist prior to 2023.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, the White House reaffirmed its opposition to Israel’s annexation of parts of the West Bank and underscored the importance of preserving stability in the territory. A White House statement attributed to a senior official said President Trump does not support annexing the West Bank and that maintaining a stable West Bank aligns with the administration’s goal of achieving peace in the region. The measures announced by Israel’s security cabinet—led by Bezalel Smotrich and Israel Katz—would expand Jerusalem’s administrative reach in areas Palestinians envision as part of their future state, a move that raises questions about its compatibility with the Oslo Accords and draws explicit concern from many quarters, including along the European Union, which characterized the steps as a step in the wrong direction.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, immigration from Russia and Ukraine is at its lowest since the COVID-19 period, according to the Immigration, Absorption, and Diaspora Affairs Committee. Committee members reported that 2025 arrivals from CIS countries are down sharply, with one member forecasting an additional roughly 50% drop, a consequence of policies described as disincentives. Ze’ev Elkin said the trend would require renewed momentum, while committee chair Gilad Kariv criticized the government for what he called a restricting approach to immigration and urged a return to a more expansive stance toward those seeking to join Israel. The debate touches on the broader tension between drawing in immigrants from Western countries and maintaining channels for those from the CIS region.

Meanwhile, coalition lawmakers moved the state budget forward after enough Haredi MKs backed away from revolt plans, allowing the Arrangements Law to be split into two bills and clearing a path to pass the 2026 budget before the deadline. The move came as talks continued over a controversial push to grant blanket conscription exemptions for Haredi yeshiva students, with Shas and United Torah Judaism raising demands that the ruling bloc had not yet fully satisfied. The outcome keeps early elections at bay for now, even as these disputes over budget provisions and exemptions persist.

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-886136
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886155
https://www.timesofisrael.com/us-stresses-opposition-to-annexation-after-israeli-steps-to-expand-west-bank-grip/
https://www.jpost.com/aliyah/article-886151
https://www.timesofisrael.com/coalition-advances-key-budget-bill-after-enough-haredi-mks-walk-back-revolt-plans/

HEADLINES
Netanyahu Trump Eye Iran Crisis Deepening
Gazan Child Denied Israel Cancer Treatment
Israel Immigration From Russia Ukraine Drops Sharply

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the world stands at a perilous crossroads as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to meet with US President Donald Trump to focus on Iran. There is a moral imperative for Western leaders to confront Tehran not with routine diplomacy but with a strategy designed to hasten the regime's decline. Tehran has used talks to buy time while unleashing brutality at home and extending influence across the region. Since late December, nationwide protests have erupted amid economic collapse and political stagnation, with tallies ranging from about 30,000 to 36,500 killed, a figure that sits beside a longer history of repression, including the 2021 Woman, Life, Freedom movement in which hundreds were killed and thousands wounded or detained.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), a Gazan child living in the West Bank was denied entry into Israel for cancer treatment despite Tel Hashomer Hospital in Israel signaling willingness to treat him, according to a Jerusalem District Court ruling. The petition, filed by Gisha Legal Center for Freedom of Movement, notes the child moved from Gaza to the West Bank in 2022 for care unavailable in the Strip, and that Ramallah doctors had been in contact with Tel Hashomer about treatment. The court did not intervene in the government's decision, creating a precedent that Gaza patients cannot enter Israel since the war began in 2023.

When Bethlehem was under Israeli control, Christians were the majority; under the Palestinian Authority the Christian population collapsed to under 20%. This isn’t coexistence; it’s a warning. Facts matter.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, Immigration from Russia and Ukraine at its lowest since COVID-19, says Diaspora Affairs Committee. The 2025 immigrant numbers from the former Soviet Union are at their lowest since 2020, and MK Ze’ev Elkin said an additional drop of about 50% is expected. The committee chair criticized the government for focusing on limiting immigration from CIS and closing gates to immigration from Ethiopia, calling the policy unacceptable and anti-Zionist. He urged renewed momentum and stressed that policy aims to encourage immigration from Western countries while ensuring that Western immigration does not come at the expense of immigration from the East.

Israeli teachers to delay school opening following extreme violence and harassment by students. BaMaale Yehud-Monosson will start classes at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, and Agamim School in Atlit at 10 a.m., after a student attacked a pregnant teacher. The Teachers Union chair Michael Pinto said violence against teaching staff is an everyday problem that must not be normalized, and the union will stand with teachers to protect them from harm.

In uplifting news, From 'Hairspray' to 'South Park,' composer Marc Shaiman tells a story shaped by Jewish humor. In his memoir Never Mind the Happy: Showbiz Stories from a Sore Winner, Shaiman reflects on a life shaped by chutzpah, fate, disappointment and resilience rooted in Jewish sensibility. He recalls being the "funny Jewish guy at the piano," a throughline in collaborations with Bette Midler, Rob Reiner, and many others, including scoring Broadway's Hairspray and South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut and co-writing the Oscar-nominated song "Blame Canada." He attributes his humor and perseverance to his Jewish upbringing, calling it a birthright in show business.

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-886136
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886155
https://t.me/hnaftali/21229
https://www.jpost.com/aliyah/article-886151
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886150
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-886152

HEADLINES
- Israel expands West Bank, sparks international ire
- Draft exemptions threaten Israeli coalition, elections
- Germany probes death threat to Jewish community

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

In The Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), a series of cabinet decisions revealed by ynet would reshape land policy and governance in Judea and Samaria, expanding Israeli settlement activity and reviving long-dormant mechanisms, while the White House reiterates President Trump’s opposition to annexation. Britain condemned the move and urged Israel to reverse course, with London saying the Security Cabinet’s decision to strengthen Israeli administrative and legal control over the West Bank is not acceptable. A US official said a stable West Bank keeps Israel secure and aligns with the administration’s goal of achieving peace in the region, and reiterated that the West Bank will not be annexed. The opposition to annexation has lingered since preliminary steps were discussed, including prior resistance raised by US Vice President JD Vance, who described earlier moves as a deliberate political provocation by the opposition.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, the White House reiterates its opposition to Israel annexing the West Bank and stresses the importance of maintaining stability in the territory in response to security cabinet measures aimed at expanding Jerusalem’s grip in the areas Palestinians hope will form their future state. The reporting notes ongoing domestic dynamics within Israel’s coalition as lawmakers weigh legislation on conscription exemptions for ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students, with signs that the draft exemption bill may not pass and the potential for elections to be called earlier, depending on how these debates unfold.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, German authorities have opened an investigation into a death threat mailed to the Jewish Community of Munich and Upper Bavaria, IKG, amid an ongoing rise in antisemitism. The package, received at the IKG’s community center and the Ohel Jakob Synagogue, contained a cartridge for a handgun and a note with threats including “all the Jews belonged shot” and “every Jew will die … I will cause all the deaths.”

In Uplifting News, Israel’s President Isaac Herzog has met students at a Jewish school in Sydney on the second day of his visit to Australia. He arrived at the Moriah War Memorial College in Queens Park accompanied by more than a dozen vehicles, and was greeted by students as heavy police presence stood nearby.

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.ynetnews.com/article/bkanyzov11e
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-886149
https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog-february-10-2026/
https://t.me/JewishNews24/49322
https://t.me/JewishNews24/49323

HEADLINES
Iran seals Isfahan tunnels as talks loom
West Bank annexation sparks US UK rebuke
Germany probes death threat against Munich Jews

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Vice President JD Vance addressed the Iran talks at a joint press conference with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, saying the president intends to preserve decisional space and keep human rights as a central element of the negotiations. Asked about whether the United States would allow any limited uranium enrichment by Iran, Vance said he would let the president speak to exactly where he wants to set the line, noting the president typically discusses such matters privately to avoid constraining him in private discussions. He added that human rights have been a part of the negotiations. Separately, satellite imagery shows Iran fortifying the Isfahan nuclear site by sealing tunnels with soil, a move analysts say is meant to blunt a possible US or Israeli attack as war fears resurface.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), UK and US denounced the security cabinet decision to expand West Bank annexation, joining Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in criticizing Israel's plan to strengthen administrative and legal control over parts of the West Bank. A US official said a stable West Bank keeps Israel secure and is in line with this administration’s goal to achieve peace in the region, reiterating that the West Bank will not be annexed. Britain called on Israel to reverse the decision. Critics have said Israel’s move to ease settlement expansion and widen its powers in the West Bank violates the Oslo Accords. Vance had previously opposed the move, calling it a deliberate political provocation by the opposition. The policy of President Trump, as cited by officials, is that the West Bank will not be annexed.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, the Times of Israel liveblog reports the White House reiterating opposition to Israel annexing the West Bank and stressing the importance of maintaining stability in the territory as it responds to the security cabinet’s measures aimed at expanding Jerusalem’s grip in areas Palestinians hope will form their future state. The White House statement does not directly condemn or address the measures, which, observers say, would violate the Oslo Accords by expanding Jerusalem’s administrative powers in West Bank areas that are supposed to be under the Palestinian Authority’s control. The administration’s position is that a stable West Bank keeps Israel secure and is in line with the goal to achieve peace in the region. A separate Reuters report quotes a White House official repeating the administration’s opposition to annexation, underscoring that “A stable West Bank keeps Israel secure and is in line with this administration’s goal to achieve peace in the region.”

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, German authorities have opened an investigation into a death threat mailed to the Jewish Community of Munich and Upper Bavaria amid an ongoing rise in antisemitism across Germany. The package, received by the IKG’s community center and the Ohel Jakob Synagogue on Thursday, contained a cartridge for a handgun and a note with intimidations such as “all the Jews belonged shot” and “every Jew will die … I will cause all the deaths.”

In the uplifting news, Israel’s President Isaac Herzog has met students at a Jewish school in Sydney this morning on the second day of his visit to Australia. Mr Herzog arrived at the Moriah War Memorial College in Queens Park, with a rendition of "Am Yisrael Chai," escorted by more than a dozen vehicles, as a heavy police presence stood by while students lined up to greet the leader.

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-886143
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/sjetdx00vbx
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-886149
https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog-february-10-2026/
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/02/trump-opposes-israeli-annexation-west-bank-white-house-official-says
https://t.me/JewishNews24/49322
https://t.me/JewishNews24/49323

HEADLINES
Isfahan tunnels sealed to blunt attack
West Bank clampdown triggers US UK backlash
Netanyahu to press Trump on Iran timeline

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Iran fortifies Isfahan nuclear site, sealing tunnels against possible attack. Satellite images show soil poured over tunnel entrances at Iran’s sensitive Isfahan facility, a move analysts say is meant to blunt a possible US or Israeli air attack or a ground raid as war fears resurface. Separately, reports circulating in Hebrew question whether a Mossad agent has been captured and whether a collaborator who helped eliminate Nasrallah has been captured; the posts offer few verifiable details.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), officials from the United Kingdom and the United States condemned the Security Cabinet's decision to strengthen Israel's administrative and legal control over the West Bank. A US official said a stable West Bank keeps Israel secure and is in line with this administration’s goal to achieve peace in the region, reiterating President Trump’s opposition to annexing the West Bank. Britain also called on Israel to reverse its decision, while critics say the move would ease settlement expansion and widen authorities in the area. Separately, reports note that at the Rafah crossing a stamp reading "State Of Palestine" has been used on passes, and Prime Minister Netanyahu has asked to consider replacing the stamp with one from the Peace Council.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, Vice President JD Vance addressed Iran negotiations at a joint press conference with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. He said the president intends to preserve decisional space and not reveal too many details publicly, while human rights have been a part of the negotiations. When asked about limited uranium enrichment, he deferred to the president to speak on the line of negotiation. He also noted that the crackdown on protesters has been part of the discussions, though he did not detail positions. In a related note, a White House official repeated the administration’s stance that it opposes Israeli annexation of the West Bank, saying a stable West Bank keeps Israel secure and aligns with peace objectives.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, a briefing analyzes Prime Minister Netanyahu’s approaching trip to Washington with a relatively small delegation. He will travel with few security representatives, leaving out most of the security apparatus aside from the military secretary, Román Gofman, and the acting head of the PM’s Office, Gil Reich. Also not joining the delegation are Lieutenant Colonel Omri Tishler, the future Air Force commander who coordinates with the US military, and Sara Netanyahu. The trip is set for a closed, working meeting on Wednesday morning without press coverage. Netanyahu plans to urge President Trump to set a fixed negotiating timeline, after which actions against Iran could follow if terms are not met.

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.ynetnews.com/article/sjetdx00vbx
https://t.me/Newss0nline/58560
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-886149
https://t.me/Newss0nline/58557
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-886143
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/02/trump-opposes-israeli-annexation-west-bank-white-house-official-says
https://t.me/Newss0nline/58558

HEADLINES
Iranian-linked outreach probes Israeli journalists
Lebanese Army finds second Hezbollah tunnel
Knesset backs budget split amid Haredi demands

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, a pair of developments shapes the regional picture. A Hebrew-language report outlines two separate cases involving journalists and suspected contact with Iranian-linked actors. One independent journalist says he was approached about photographing locations via Telegram about a year and a half ago, with a second approach several months later; he says he reported the attempts to the Cyber Authority, refused to photograph, and asked for intervention, noting there were additional outreach attempts, including one framed as helping the public, that he viewed as potentially missionary in nature. He adds that to probe the demands he carried out a few actions that were not forbidden. Separately, an Orthodox Jewish media figure is suspected of contact with Iranian actors a few days after he proactively reached out to the police cyber unit, alleging messages from unidentified correspondents. Security authorities decided to arrest him, and he was questioned by Shin Bet and the Jerusalem Police, while his attorney says the charges fall on a journalist of clean hands. On the broader security front, US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper praised the Lebanese Armed Forces for locating a Hezbollah tunnel, describing the discovery as the second such find in two months and saying that dismantling tunnels used by non-state actors to store missiles and attack drones promotes peace and stability in Lebanon and across the region. The remarks followed a meeting in Washington between the LAF chief and US officials, with Cooper noting the role of the US-led Mechanism in supporting commitments between Israel and Lebanon. Senator Lindsey Graham commented on the Lebanon context, noting differences over Hezbollah’s designation, as Haykal’s position on that issue was discussed during the talks.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, steps toward budget approval and reform were advanced with cross-party backing. The Knesset approved a decision by the House Committee to split the economic arrangements law, in a vote of 60 to 56, with the ultra-Orthodox parties Shas and United Torah Judaism voting in favor. The economic plan and the 2026 budget consolidation law will be moved to the relevant Knesset committees ahead of their second and third readings. The parties representing the ultra-Orthodox community conditioned their support on the passage of the military conscription law, currently under discussion in the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, as part of the broader package of budgetary and reform measures.

In Uplifting News, a New York retrospective highlights the work of a seminal Jewish countercultures photographer. The Center for Jewish History is presenting Bill Aron: Photographer of Jewish Countercultures, a sweeping exhibit running through June 4 that spans five decades—from the havurah movement’s heyday to the later days of the Jewish Lower East Side. The show centers on Aron’s street photography and his pivotal role in documenting a vibrant, evolving community, drawing on images that helped shape collective memory, including material tied to the era’s diy, community-driven culture and the long arc of Jewish life in New York.

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

SOURCES
https://t.me/newssil/190817
https://t.me/newssil/190816
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-886144
https://t.me/selena_updates/55046
https://t.me/Newss0nline/58556
https://www.timesofisrael.com/bill-aron-photographer-of-jewish-countercultures-gets-his-due-in-sweeping-nyc-retrospective/

HEADLINES
Indonesia Deploys Troops to Gaza Stabilization
Lebanese Army Discovers Hezbollah Tunnel Again
Knesset Pushes to Split 2026 Budget Arrangements

The time is now 6:02 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, CENTCOM chief Admiral Brad Cooper praised the Lebanese Armed Forces for discovering a Hezbollah tunnel, calling the move key to regional stability. He noted the tunnel was uncovered for the second time in the past two months and said dismantling tunnels used by non-state actors to store ammunition, missiles, and attack drones promotes peace and stability in Lebanon and across the region. He credited the LAF alongside the US-led Mechanism that helps enforce commitments made by Israel and Lebanon. The LAF chief, General Rodolphe Haykal, recently met with US officials in Washington and at CENTCOM to discuss ongoing support and efforts to disarm Hezbollah. In Ayta ash-Shab, south Lebanon, an Israeli sniper from Brigade 300 under Division 91 killed Abdallah Khalil Nasser, a Hezbollah operative described as gathering intelligence against IDF forces and working to rehabilitate Hezbollah’s infrastructure in southern Lebanon.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), Indonesia is expected to become the first country to contribute troops to Gaza’s International Stabilization Force during Phase II of the ceasefire, according to KAN News. Indonesian troops could be on the ground within weeks and are expected to supervise ceasefire lines and possibly border-related issues, including defense lines in Khan Yunis and Rafah. They are not anticipated to seek confrontation with Hamas. The ISF’s formation has been discussed with other potential contributors, but Indonesia appears poised to move from promise to readiness. Separately, IDF forces said four Hamas gunmen emerged from a Rafah tunnel and attacked troops in eastern Rafah; the soldiers returned fire and eliminated the four terrorists, with several Palestinians later reported killed in strikes. The IDF called the attack a clear violation of the ceasefire and said it would continue to hunt remaining militants in the tunnel. Hamas described the fighters as engaging in “heroic resistance.”

In Israeli Domestic Politics, the Knesset will vote on splitting the Arrangements Bill from the 2026 State Budget late Monday evening, following coalition negotiations with the haredi parties Shas and United Torah Judaism. The parties have threatened to oppose the coalition over the drafted bill, though coalition whip Ofir Katz said Shas and the Degel HaTorah faction would vote in favor of splitting. The Arrangements Bill, presented each year with the budget, carries numerous amendments the government aims to pass, making the vote a focal point of negotiations. Talks were ongoing after discussions over a clause related to draft targets reportedly being dropped, according to a KAN report. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office also faces other strains as Braverman, his chief of staff, stands at risk of suspension amid a police probe into alleged attempts to influence an IDF probe into leaked classified material. The Civil Service Commission has summoned Braverman for a hearing and the State Prosecutor’s Office has recommended a six-month suspension, with a response due by the deadline set by the panel. In parallel, rights groups pressed Interior Minister to freeze deportations of Ethiopian migrants, arguing the security situation in Ethiopia remains too volatile for safe return. Israel’s High Court rejected a challenge to the earlier withdrawal of protection for Ethiopians, giving migrants several months to prepare to leave, while the Foreign Ministry notes continued security concerns about travel to Ethiopia.

In Israeli Economy and Business, Wiz announced a purchase of a startup but now faces a civil lawsuit claiming the company paid “civil bribes” to the startup’s founders, allegedly stole their technology, and influenced the public and investors. Wiz denies any connection between its product and Raftat’s technology.

In Uplifting News, thousands gathered to pay tribute as Matti Caspi was laid to rest. The iconic Israeli singer, composer, and songwriter died after a long illness at 76. His coffin was moved from Tel Aviv’s Performing Arts Center to a funeral in Kfar Saba, with performances by fellow artists and heartfelt tributes from family. Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai joined mourners, praising Caspi as a cornerstone of Israeli culture, and his children spoke of the enduring inspiration their father provided.

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/article-886144
https://t.me/selena_updates/55045
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-886141
https://www.timesofisrael.com/idf-says-it-killed-four-hamas-gunmen-who-emerged-from-rafah-tunnel-fired-on-troops/
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886145
https://www.timesofisrael.com/pms-chief-of-staff-said-facing-suspension-imperiling-appointment-as-envoy-to-uk/
https://www.timesofisrael.com/rights-groups-call-on-interior-ministry-to-freeze-deportation-of-ethiopian-migrants/
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1283069
https://www.timesofisrael.com/greatest-musician-of-our-generation-legendary-artist-matti-caspi-laid-to-rest/

HEADLINES
Abdallah Khalil Nasser Killed by Israeli Sniper
Indonesia Joins Gaza Phase II Stabilization
350th F35 Wing Delivered to Lockheed

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, authorities report a series of security developments with regional implications. A Hezbollah operative Abdallah Khalil Nasser was killed by an Israeli sniper from Brigade 300 under the command of Division 91 in Ayta ash-Shab, south Lebanon. He had been gathering intelligence against IDF forces and worked to rehabilitate the organization's infrastructure in southern Lebanon. Iran stepped up arrests, including the spokesperson for the reformist coalition, in a move that kept the option open for talks with Washington in Oman ahead of Netanyahu's visit to the United States. Tehran floated possible concessions on its stockpile of enriched uranium, and the regime’s leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, called for national resolve. Israeli minister Smotrich said the Iranian regime must be destroyed and rejected any diplomatic deal unless it includes sweeping restrictions. Oil prices climbed roughly $1 per barrel after the US Department of Transportation issued an advisory urging US-flagged vessels to steer as far away as possible from Iranian waters while transiting the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), Indonesia will be the first country to contribute to the International Stabilization Force in Gaza during Phase II of the ceasefire, according to KAN News. The ISF is expected to supervise ceasefire lines and border issues, with Indonesian troops possibly operating in Khan Yunis and Rafah in southern Gaza within weeks. Two terrorists were killed and several wounded in an Israeli strike carried out by an IDF attack helicopter in western Gaza City, near the Al-Aila Al-Muqaddasa school in the Nasser neighborhood. The deceased are Ibrahim Za’anin and Ahmad Suilem, militants in Hamas’s Beit Hanoun Battalion. Hamas terrorist Anas al-Nashar, son of Issa al-Nashar, one of the founders of Hamas and former mayor of Rafah, was eliminated yesterday by forces of the anti-Hamas Popular Forces militia of Yasser Abu Shabab after a grenade was thrown into the building where he was hiding in Rafah, south Gaza.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, wives of top figures on the left report that their husbands wake up frightened in the middle of the night and describe dreams of thousands of orange hats scattered around the home. The IDF said it is cutting back superfluous reservists, with routine call-ups limited to 55 days in 2026 and a cap of 40,000 reservists serving on any given day. The military also said it would reduce the number of days reservists are required to serve under routine call-up orders, from 72 to 55, with 42 days devoted to operational activity and the rest to other duties.

In Israeli Economy and Business, Israel Aerospace Industries celebrated delivering the 350th fighter jet wing to Lockheed Martin for the F-35 program. Israel’s inventory now includes 48 of 50 F-35s, following three F-35i jets landing at Nevatim Air Base on January 18. Defense Minister Katz hinted that the F-35s, used to attack Iran’s nuclear program in 2025, could be deployed against the Islamic Republic again in the near future.

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

SOURCES
https://t.me/selena_updates/55045
https://www.timesofisrael.com/iran-steps-up-arrests-floats-shrinking-nuclear-program-as-netanyahu-heads-to-us/
https://worldisraelnews.com/smotrich-says-iranian-regime-must-be-destroyed/
https://t.me/JewishNews24/49311
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-886141
https://t.me/selena_updates/55040
https://t.me/selena_updates/55038
https://t.me/newssil/190808
https://www.timesofisrael.com/idf-says-cutting-back-superfluous-reservists-will-reduce-duty-time/
https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-886139

HEADLINES
Jerusalem journalist detained over alleged Iran contact
Indonesia to join Gaza ISF Phase II
Netanyahu to discuss Iran with Trump

The time is now 4:01 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 Jerusalem-based independent journalist who reported suspected Iranian recruitment was detained and questioned on suspicion of contact with a foreign agent after alerting police. The journalist, who cannot be named due to a gag order, says unidentified individuals contacted him via social media in January, asking him to photograph Jerusalem streets, including ultra-Orthodox demonstrations, which he believed could be recruitment by Iranian intelligence. He voluntarily contacted the Jerusalem Police’s cyber unit, but upon arriving to share information he was detained and questioned by the Shin Bet and police. He spent several days in detention while being interrogated on suspicion of contact with a foreign agent. In another development reflecting regional tensions tied to Iranian proxies, CENTCOM chief Brad Cooper praised the Lebanese army for uncovering a Hezbollah tunnel for the second time in two weeks; a new hospital opened in Beirut’s Dahieh with a speech by Hezbollah’s leader, a day after Kuwait blacklisted Lebanese hospitals over ties to the group.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), Indonesia is expected to become the first country to contribute troops to Gaza’s International Stabilization Force during Phase II of the ceasefire, according to KAN News. Indonesia could have troops on the ground within weeks, following President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to Washington for the Peace to Prosperity summit on February 19. The ISF is not expected to seek direct confrontation with Hamas or to proactively disarm the group; instead, Indonesian forces would supervise ceasefire lines and possibly handle border-related duties, including defense lines in Khan Yunis and Rafah, within the framework of the Trump administration’s Phase II.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will travel to the United States for a strategy-shaping session with President Trump and senior aides to discuss the current US-Iran talks and options if diplomacy fails, including the possibility of a US military strike. Attendees include military secretary Major-General Roman Gofman and acting NSC director Gil Reich. US Vice President JD Vance said there are no redlines at this stage, but Trump seeks a broad and meaningful agreement, with Washington warning vessels flying the US flag to stay as far as possible from Iranian waters while transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Netanyahu then heads to Washington for a closed-door meeting with Trump to press for strict red lines over Iran’s nuclear program and ballistic missiles, even as regional allies push for a lighter deal.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, an Australian advertisement opposing Herzog’s visit sparked backlash over false, unauthorized names and the inclusion of kapos. The ad reportedly lists names associated with Nazi camps, including three historical kapos, and appeared on World Israel News, drawing criticism for the false attribution and for invoking Nazi-era references in criticizing the visit.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced he would not approve the appointment or promotion of senior police officer Ruti Hauslich, citing a pattern of “grave misconduct” including impersonation of authority, misleading Knesset committees, and violations of police ordinances. The decision was formalized in a letter to Deputy Attorneys-General Gil Limon and Sharon Afek, responding to objections to his earlier refusal to advance Hauslich. Ben-Gvir grounded his stance in part on the Rinat Saban ruling handed down earlier that day as part of the wider context of senior police promotions. Hauslich had signed an official letter on September 10, 2025, identifying herself as acting head of the police’s Investigations and Intelligence Division—a role not yet appointed, with approval still under ministerial review.

In Israeli Economy and Business, Israel Aerospace Industries delivered the 350th fighter jet wing to Lockheed Martin for the F-35 program. This follows the January 18 arrival of three F-35i aircraft at Nevatim Air Force Base, raising Israel’s on-hand inventory to 48 of 50. The wings underscore IAI’s broader role in supporting the global F-35 fleet, now operated by about 1,300 jets across 11 countries. Defense Minister Katz indicated that the F-35s were pivotal for strikes against Iran’s nuclear program in 2025 and could be deployed again soon. Separately, Elbit Systems announced about $100 million in contracts with the Israeli Defense Ministry to develop next-generation digitization capabilities for the IDF, including the Digital Ground Army (Tzayad) and Multi-Sensor Border Defense System (MARS) programs. The initiative aims to deliver advanced command and control across air, sea, and land with full multi-domain connectivity and to enhance operational decision-making through artificial intelligence.

In Uplifting News, Israeli researchers from the Weizmann Institute of Science and Washington University in St. Louis report a world-first use of CAR T-cell therapy, originally developed to treat blood cancers, to combat brain inflammation in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and led by Prof. Ido Amit and Prof. Jonathan Kipnis, builds on foundational work by late Prof. Zelig Eshhar, noting that the approach could open pathways to treating Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative disorders in the future.

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

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886133
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/rj65qhvv11x
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-886141
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886137
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/hk7jehwwzl
https://worldisraelnews.com/australian-ad-opposing-herzog-visit-sparks-backlash-over-false-unauthorized-names-and-inclusion-of-kapos/
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886135
https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-886139
https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-886132
https://www.timesofisrael.com/in-world-first-israeli-researchers-use-blood-cancer-treatment-for-alzheimers-in-mice/