HEADLINES
Crippling Microsoft 365 outage hits thousands worldwide
Gabay's rapid Gaza reconstruction plan gains traction
Carrier Lincoln deploys amid Iran tensions

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

This is a comprehensive daily update on the day’s most consequential developments in the Middle East and adjacent issues, with context to help international audiences understand the implications for security, diplomacy, humanitarian conditions, and regional stability.

Microsoft 365 experienced a broad outage affecting thousands of users worldwide, Downdetector reported. Microsoft confirmed it is investigating a potential issue in a portion of its service infrastructure in North America that was not processing traffic as expected. The total number of affected users may differ from Downdetector’s tally because many incident reports are user submissions, and the company noted the situation remains developing. In an era when digital infrastructure underpins government, financial, and military communications, such disruptions can have ripple effects across multiple sectors, underscoring the ongoing importance of resilient cloud services for both public and private operations.

In the diplomacy and reconstruction arena, attention continues to focus on a reconstruction framework for Gaza that has gained high-profile attention in recent months. A real estate investor, Yakir Gabay, has become a visible architect of a broader reconstruction concept tied to a US-backed peace framework observed by President Donald Trump and his advisers. Gabay’s approach emphasizes rapid, large-scale reconstruction as a path toward stabilizing daily life—schools reopening, clinics functioning, and economic activity resuming—as a means to create political leverage for disarmament and governance reforms. He argues for a staged process in which initial reconstruction and humanitarian stabilization could create incentives for compliance from Hamas and other armed actors, with international partners and regional states applying pressure if cooperation falters. Critics note the challenge of ensuring credible enforcement, disarmament, and governance in a post-conflict setting, while supporters maintain that credible capital commitments and accountable oversight could shift calculations on the ground. The framework involves collaboration among international partners, regional actors, and private sector participants, and is presented as a pragmatic alternative to past efforts that stalled or failed to deliver durable results. At Davos and in other forums, advocates stress that egyptian mediation and broader Arab alignment could influence the dynamics, while skeptics warn that the absence of a formal security mechanism and clear political horizon could limit the plan’s effectiveness.

Across the regional security landscape, a substantial deployment of United States forces toward the Middle East was announced as a carrier strike group and accompanying assets move toward the region. Officials indicated the arrival of the aircraft carrier Lincoln and other ships and aircraft in the coming days, alongside discussions about bolstering regional air defense capabilities. President Donald Trump signaled a preference for avoiding new military action against Iran but warned that Washington would act if Tehran resumed its nuclear program. The move comes amid heightened tensions after Iran’s domestic crackdowns on protests and escalating confrontations in the Persian Gulf and surrounding areas. The presence of a carrier group and related systems provides Washington with a range of options, from enhanced defensive postures to potential coercive actions aimed at deterring further Iranian nuclear activity or destabilizing regional proxies. The broader objective cited by officials is to deter escalation, while maintaining strategic flexibility for diplomacy.

The broader Iran-related dynamics were also reflected in international reporting on Iran’s nuclear program and regional protests. The International Atomic Energy Agency has not confirmed fresh verifications of highly enriched uranium beyond its prior assessments for several months, and monitoring and reporting obligations remain a core element of diplomatic discussions about Tehran’s nuclear activities. Iranian protests, which began in late December over economic and political grievances, have produced high casualty figures according to various monitoring groups, with the scope of violence and security responses contributing to regional volatility. The potential for renewed protests or foreign involvement in Iran’s internal affairs remains a variable in broader regional risk calculations.

In Iraq, the judiciary announced it would begin standard legal proceedings against Islamic State detainees transferred from Syria as part of a US-led operation to relocate approximately 7,000 detainees. The transfers come as government forces in Syria have expanded control over previously Kurdish-led territories, and as Baghdad emphasizes the importance of handling suspects within Iraqi judicial processes. The United States welcomed Iraq’s approach to detaining ISIS members in secure facilities within Iraq and urged other countries to repatriate their own citizens to face justice. The United Nations has assumed management responsibilities for camps housing tens of thousands of ISIS affiliates and family members in northeast Syria, highlighting the ongoing burden-sharing debate among coalition partners as regional security concerns persist. In parallel, Iraqi authorities have signaled the formation of ongoing judicial pathways to address terrorism-related cases, including potential implications for foreign fighters and cross-border cooperation.

On the political front inside Israel, there is continued discussion about how domestic and regional political shifts might intersect with the broader conflict environment. Arab parties renewed a commitment to re-establish the Joint List, a bloc formerly comprising Ra’am, Hadash, Ta’al, and Balad, amid a climate of public demonstrations and political pressure to address rising violence in Arab communities and to bolster political influence in the lead-up to elections. Observers note that the bloc’s revival could reshape the electoral landscape and affect coalition calculations, though the ultimate impact on government formation remains contingent on party alignments and voter turnout. The protests in Sakhnin and across Arab towns underscored persistent concerns about crime and security in Arab communities, raising questions about how political leadership will respond to domestic demands while balancing broader national security interests.

In Gaza and southern Israel, coverage continues of Israeli security operations targeting Hamas’ tunnel networks and other infrastructure within the Gaza Strip. Reporters described ongoing efforts by Israeli forces to locate and dismantle tunnel systems, reflecting a continued focus on preventing cross-border infiltration and future attacks. The day’s reporting also highlighted the human toll of the conflict, including funerals and memorials for journalists and other civilians. Notably, the death of several journalists in Gaza has drawn attention to the risks faced by media workers covering the war, and international observers have urged adherence to protections for journalists under international law, even as combat conditions persist.

Alongside this, a broader cultural and political debate in Israel drew public attention to the domestic film sector and state subsidies. Culture Minister Miki Zohar criticized Oscar-nominated Israeli films as amplifying what he described as an enemy’s narrative, suggesting that government funding should be more closely tied to domestic consensus and national messaging. His remarks reflect an ongoing tension in Israeli cultural policy over the balance between artistic expression and perceived national interest, a debate that unfolds in the shadow of security challenges and international scrutiny.

From the diplomacy track, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas met with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, signaling continued engagement between Palestinian leadership and Russia as part of broader diplomatic efforts to influence Western and regional alignments. Analysts describe Moscow’s outreach as part of a strategy to keep the Palestinian question visible on the international stage and to seek support for the Palestinian position in international forums, including discussions surrounding financial assistance and political recognition. The meeting comes as Washington calibrates its own policy toward the Palestinian Authority and the broader conditions shaping the peace process.

In Davos and other forums, attention also turned to events involving other regional actors and international players. For instance, discussions about how a proposed Board of Peace might interact with United Nations structures and regional dynamics drew criticism from some European governments and security policy analysts who questioned the board’s legitimacy and practical enforceability. A related thread emphasized that, while some regional partners welcome a structured approach to Gaza’s post-conflict reconstruction, others warned against overreliance on a new mechanism that could complicate existing multilateral avenues without clear governance. In this context, the question of how to balance immediate humanitarian needs with longer-term political objectives remains central to credible policy design.

Within the wider regional security conversation, the United States signaled readiness to respond to threats in the Red Sea and the Gulf, including potential actions against Iranian-backed proxies. Meanwhile, there were reports of international efforts to deter or constrain escalations, along with concerns about the humanitarian and legal dimensions of how such actions

HEADLINES
US Arrests Civil Rights Activists at Church
Arab Parties To Reunite In Joint List
Israel Discovers Hamas Hideouts Near Yellow Line

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

Good afternoon. This is the 4:00 PM update with the latest developments shaping the regional and international landscape, with attention to Israeli and Jewish perspectives for an international audience.

Federal authorities in the United States announced the arrest of two Minnesota civil rights activists who helped lead a protest inside Cities Church in St. Paul. Federal agents, including personnel from the FBI and Homeland Security, took into custody Nekima Levy Armstrong, a former law professor and NAACP chapter president, and Chauntyll Louisa Allen, a St. Paul school board member. The government says the charges relate to obstruction inside a house of worship, under laws designed to protect access to places of worship and to reproductive health centers. Bondi and Homeland Security officials said additional arrests are expected related to the same Sunday service disruption, during which protesters interrupted the service and alleged a leadership tie between the church pastor and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Levy Armstrong described the actions as a government overreach and said the case signals a troubling trend toward using federal power to retaliate against civil rights activism. In response, church leadership said legal action could be pursued against those who disrupted worship. The broader context includes a Justice Department review of enforcement actions around protests at religious sites and concerns among civil rights groups that federal tools could be used to stifle dissent.

In Washington and beyond, US policy and diplomacy continue to orbit the wider Middle East challenges. US officials have signaled a continued emphasis on security and deterrence in the region, including discussions about Iran and allied actors. The United States has moved carrier strike groups and additional air defenses toward the Middle East in recent days, while President Trump has sought to frame the effort as defensive and aimed at preventing nuclear escalation. Officials emphasize that any deployment is typically defensive and designed to deter further destabilization in a region already under immense pressure from competing security agendas.

In the Middle East, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, signaling a continued effort to diversify diplomatic ties as the Kremlin seeks to keep channels open in the region. Putin thanked Abbas for support, while observers note Russia’s interest in shaping diplomatic arithmetic that could influence the diplomatic map for Gaza and the broader Palestinian issue. The meeting comes as Moscow seeks to balance relationships with Western powers and regional actors, and as foreign-policy discussions in Europe and the United States weigh how best to engage with Palestinian governance and humanitarian needs.

Across Israel, a unity-focused maneuver is under way as Arab parties signaled their intent to reestablish the Joint List, a slate that previously united Ra’am, Hadash, Ta’al, and Balad. The agreement aims to present a consolidated Arab political front ahead of Israel’s upcoming elections, a move seen by many analysts as potentially altering the arithmetic of coalition-building. The four parties have endured splits in recent years, but leaders say a renewed joint slate could bolster Arab voter turnout and influence whether a broader anti‑Netanyahu coalition could gain ground. In parallel, thousands of residents in Sakhnin and other Arab towns demonstrated against crime and violence, calling on all sectors of society to address security and governance concerns. The protests drew support from a range of political actors, including opposition figures who argued that crime and governance affect all Israelis, Jews and Arabs alike. Prime Minister Netanyahu defended the government’s record on funding and oversight for Arab towns, arguing that resources have been allocated to combat crime and improve infrastructure while stressing the ongoing nature of the challenge.

Meanwhile, a global discussion about security and diplomacy unfolded at Davos, where discussions of a proposed “Board of Peace” led by President Trump stirred skepticism among European partners. Critics questioned the board’s scope, governance, and feasibility, particularly its authority relative to established multilateral institutions. Proponents said the board could serve as a flexible instrument in Gaza-related diplomacy, while opponents warned that replacing or circumventing existing institutions risks undermining broader diplomatic legitimacy. The discourse at Davos reflects a larger tension between innovation in diplomacy and the realities of long‑standing state-to-state engagement.

On the security front, the region remains volatile, with continued concern over Iran and its proxies. The Houthis in Yemen have warned that they would resume targeting US flagships in the Red Sea should the United States attack Iran. In response, US military assets, including an aircraft carrier strike group and air-defense capabilities, have been repositioned to the region. Defense officials emphasize that these moves are precautionary and defensive in nature, aimed at deterring any escalatory actions that could threaten shipping lanes and regional stability. Analysts note this is part of a pattern in which external powers recalibrate force posture in response to evolving threats, while avoiding a direct confrontation that could widen conflict.

In related security reporting, US and allied authorities have noted the broader risk environment around critical infrastructure. A major Swiss-based delegation and allied researchers have highlighted the increasing use of proxy and hybrid channels to advance state objectives, including through media networks and business structures that could, in some circumstances, facilitate illicit activity or sanctions evasion. Those assessments underscore the importance of robust oversight and international cooperation as governments respond to evolving cyber, financial, and information-security risks.

Cyberspace and industry headlines also feature a notable development from Israel. Claroty, an Israeli-founded cybersecurity firm focused on protecting critical industrial and infrastructure systems, announced a $150 million funding round. The investment values the company at about $3 billion and expands its footprint to defend utilities, manufacturing, and healthcare networks from ransomware and related threats. The company’s platform integrates protection for industrial control and operational technologies with cybersecurity expertise, reflecting a growing convergence of cyber and physical security for essential services.

In the realm of culture and politics, Israeli Culture Minister Miki Zohar criticized Oscar-nominated Israeli films for portraying Israel in ways he characterized as damaging to the country’s reputation. He cited two films—Butcher’s Stain and Children No More: Were and Are Gone—as examples of works he said amplify enemy narratives. He also referenced cinema reforms aimed at allocating state support based on what he described as national interest rather than international awards. The debate touches on how Israeli storytelling in global forums intersects with domestic policy decisions about funding and public support for the arts.

Operationally in the field, the Israeli Defense Forces reported uncovering weapons and three underground hideouts used by Hamas near the Yellow Line, part of continued efforts to neutralize immediate threats under the ceasefire framework. The finding highlights the ongoing security concerns surrounding Hamas in Gaza and the persistent risk of escalation along the border.

In domestic Israeli politics, large-scale protests in Sakhnin drew tens of thousands of participants, with protesters urging action against crime in Arab towns and accusing national leaders of insufficient response. Opposition figures publicly supported the demonstrations, while Prime Minister Netanyahu framed the issue as a national challenge requiring continued investment and oversight. The event underscored the political salience of security and governance concerns within Arab communities as Israel heads toward elections.

Internationally, attention remained on tensions surrounding Iran, with discussions about sanctions, regional influence, and how outside powers might shape outcomes in the Middle East. Observers noted that while there are strong incentives for collaboration against shared threats, the path to durable agreements remains complex and contested, balancing national interests with humanitarian and regional stability goals.

Finally, in the United Kingdom, security analysts highlighted a decade-long Houthi-linked media network registered in the UK as a potential risk factor for sanctions evasion and counterterrorism concerns. Experts warned that such networks can provide cover for illicit activity and may enable actors to move funds or personnel while appearing legitimate. The assessment calls for rigorous oversight of media entities and related organizations that may function as conduits for state-backed influence operations.

As the day closes, the world faces a mosaic of tightly interwoven issues: legal actions and civil rights debates inside the United States; shifting political alignments within Israel’s Arab communities; a reimagined but contested approach to diplomacy in the Middle East; and a persistent undercurrent of security challenges from Iran to the Red Sea. The overarching story remains one of balancing security with civil liberties, sovereignty with humanitarian considerations, and national interests with international responsibility. We will continue to moni

HEADLINES
- Arab parties reunite in Israel elections bid
- US outlines Gaza disarmament plan with NCAG
- Iraq to prosecute ISIS detainees from Syria

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

Three o’clock in the afternoon in a changing Middle East. Here is the latest with context for an international audience, balancing Israel’s security concerns and US policy positions with regional developments.

Arab political actors in Israel have moved to reassemble the Joint List. The leaders of Ra’am, Hadash, Ta’al, and Balad signed a commitment to reestablish a joint Arab electoral slate ahead of the next election cycle. The move comes after a years-long fragmentation, including Ra’am’s departure from the prior alliance and Balad’s 2022 split, leaving Ra’am and Hadash-Ta’al as the parliamentary remnants. The unity bid was announced as tens of thousands took to the streets in Sakhnin to protest what organizers called police failure to curb organized crime in Israel’s Arab communities. At issue is not only electoral arithmetic—analysts say the proposed joint slate could lift turnout and shape whether a right-leaning coalition could form—and the parties’ stated aim to influence national policy and security, including pressure on the government to address violence and governance in Arab towns. Hadash-Ta’al chair Ayman Odeh urged unity and argued the alliance could be decisive in removing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from office, while urging Arab parties to join in a broader public effort. The agreement signals a heightened expectation that mixed-majority Arab political representation will seek a common platform, though observers note past experiences of disputes and a history of fluctuating alliances complicate any forecast of immediate electoral gains.

On the security front, forces uncovered weapons and three underground hideouts inside a Hamas tunnel about one kilometer east of the Yellow Line in Gaza, part of ongoing ceasefire-era efforts to remove threats near the frontier. Israeli operations say the findings underscore the persistent risk from tunnel networks and weapon caches used by Hamas to project capability despite a broader truce framework. The environment remains volatile, with Israeli officials citing ceasefire violations as justification for both targeted strikes and defensive measures, while Gazan residents describe the humanitarian strain of a long-running conflict and the ongoing need for basic services, fuel, and shelter.

In Washington, the administration has outlined a demilitarization plan for Gaza that is designed to link reconstruction to verified disarmament. The framework envisions the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, or NCAG, dismantling armed groups and overseeing a phased, independently verified disarmament process. The plan calls for weapons to be removed, a single law and command structure, and the integration or dismantling of armed actors under a process that would eventually allow a calibrated withdrawal of Israeli forces to a defined security perimeter. Reforms would set the stage for a transition of governance to a Palestinian-led authority, with the stated aim of unlocking investment and reconstruction only after disarmament milestones are met. The blueprint emphasizes amnesty, reintegration, or safe corridors for those who disarm, and a staged verification regime to trigger IDF redeployments and ultimately a full pullback once disarmament is confirmed. The NCAG would include US representatives and, after NATO-like gradations of governance, could hand control to a technocratic body led by a Gaza-born official, while leaving a pathway for governance to transition to the Palestinian Authority after reforms. Israeli officials have indicated that Hamas must disarm and the remains of a missing hostage must be returned before any progress on broader Phase II can proceed. The plan reflects a US approach that ties security, governance, and reconstruction to a disciplined disarmament process, while acknowledging the political complexity of managing Gaza’s institutions and security dynamics.

In other regional developments, Iraq announced it would begin legal proceedings against Islamic State detainees transferred from Syria. Iraqi authorities said more than 10,000 ISIS members have been held in facilities run by Kurdish-led authorities in northeast Syria, and the transfer of an initial batch of 150 detainees to Iraq follows concerns about security and the fate of thousands of wives, children, and fighters tied to the group. The transfers come as US forces have relocated detainees and as regional security calculations shift in the wake of Kurdish-led forces’ setbacks in northeast Syria. Iraqi officials described the operation as a prudent step to protect national security and to ensure that the legal system addresses the detainees in Iraqi courts, recognizing that many detainees hail from a range of nationalities. Western officials cautioned that the security implications are significant, including the risk of escapes, the handling of high-profile detainees, and the broader question of regional stability as counterterrorism operations evolve.

Internationally, a Spanish judge shelved a probe into alleged Pegasus spyware use targeting the phones of Spain’s prime minister and several ministers, citing insufficient cooperation from Israeli authorities to determine whether the spyware was employed in those cases. The ruling reflects ongoing tensions around cyber surveillance and the limitations of international investigations when cooperation from key actors is constrained or incomplete. The decision to pause the inquiry, the judge indicated, was based on the absence of clear evidence that could be advanced within the existing legal framework, underscoring the challenge of attributing cyber operations across borders.

Meanwhile, in London, investigators exposed a decade-long London-registered media company linked to the Houthi movement, raising concerns about sanctions evasion and broader security risks. Experts warned the presence of a registered company with ties to Houthi-linked media networks could enable propaganda, intelligence collection, and evasion strategies. The analysis suggested such entities might be used to facilitate movement of assets, personnel, or funds and could become a potential platform for Houthi and Iranian state-linked activity in Western countries, complicating sanctions enforcement and security policy.

In the United States, a domestic case drew attention to the charged dynamics of protest and political speech. A pro-Palestinian activist facing deportation to Algeria was at the center of a dispute over immigration and constitutional questions, as US authorities argued the individual’s visa status creates grounds for removal, while the activist’s legal team contends that removal would raise constitutional concerns. The decision follows court rulings on removal proceedings and reflects broader tensions over national security, protest movements, and immigration policy.

Back in the United States, the political and media landscape continues to influence international discourse. A profile piece on a White House communications team member highlighted the shift toward a digital-first approach, with emphasis on rapid, direct messaging and a broader array of media interactions. Israeli observers noted the potential implications for how Washington communicates about security commitments and regional policy, while critics cautioned about the risks and the balance between transparency and accountability in such a strategy.

In related material, the broader security conversation touches on the enduring challenge Israel faces in safeguarding its northern and southern fronts as regional actors maneuver around elections and shifting alliances. Among analysts, there is a consistent emphasis on how alliance-building, deterrence, and a credible security posture factor into regional diplomacy and the possibility of broader peace initiatives. The Israeli political scene, the Arab parties’ unity bid, and US policy moves remain interconnected as policymakers weigh the risks of escalation against opportunities for strategic alignment.

In the broader humanitarian and geopolitical context, observers note that Gaza’s path to reconstruction remains contingent on verified disarmament and the establishment of a credible governance framework. While calls for investment and development persist, they are paired with the insistence that security and compliance with agreed disarmament milestones come first. The question for regional stability remains whether the parties responsible for enforcing the ceasefire and rebuilding Gaza can sustain a disciplined, verifiable process that narrows conflict pathways while addressing urgent humanitarian needs.

As events unfold, the international community watches closely how Israel, Palestinian authorities, and regional partners navigate elections, security threats, and governance reforms. The path forward will require careful balancing of security imperatives, political legitimacy, and the practical demands of reconstruction and regional stability. We will continue to monitor developments, providing concise, factual updates with the aim of clarity and accuracy for a broad international audience.

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/politics-and-diplomacy/article-884275
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-884272
https://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-884128
https://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-884270
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-884

HEADLINES
Iraq prosecutes Syria ISIS detainees
AI unmanned ships deter Iran at sea
NCAG to spearhead Gaza demilitarization

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

Good afternoon. Here is the latest hourly briefing on developments shaping the Middle East and adjacent security considerations as of this afternoon.

Iraq says it will begin legal proceedings against ISIS detainees transferred from Syria. More than ten thousand Islamic State members have been held in a network of prisons and detention camps overseen by the Kurdish-led SDF in northeast Syria. Following the rapid collapse of Kurdish-led forces and renewed concern about ISIS security, Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council announced that courts will take up cases against detainees handed over from Syria. The first batch, reported by Iraqi authorities, included 150 detainees described as senior figures, with transfers intended to proceed based on security and field assessments. Iraqi officials say the transfers are a measure to safeguard national security, and the detainees will be moved to specialized correctional facilities with distinct arrangements for senior figures and foreign nationals. The move follows earlier notices from the US military that about 150 detainees had already been relocated to Iraq and that as many as seven thousand could eventually be moved out of Syria. The transfers have elicited concern among some relatives of detainees in Europe, who worry about the fate and well-being of those held in Iraq. Iraqi authorities emphasize that Iraqi courts, under the constitution and criminal laws, will oversee due process and ensure that suspects are handled within Iraqi jurisdiction.

In Washington, the US Central Command is maintaining a long‑term focus on Iran as the principal regional source of instability. CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper has overseen a substantial buildup in forces and a portfolio of advanced maritime capabilities designed to deter Iran and its proxies. A key element has been a pivot to sea-based unmanned systems, creating a digital network to monitor and deter threats along vital waterways. Cooper has described efforts to integrate unmanned surface vessels with artificial intelligence to extend eyes and reach at sea, enabling real‑time detection of weapons transfers from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to its proxies. Those efforts, part of broader cooperation with Israel and regional partners, are positioned within a strategy that views Iran as the top security challenge and aims to maintain freedom of navigation through strategic chokepoints. Cooper has also overseen campaigns targeting Houthi targets in Yemen and coordinated with allied militaries in pursuit of regional stability, while emphasizing that deterrence could be exercised quickly if political conditions warrant.

Washington is also moving on a comprehensive framework for Gaza’s future. A US-backed demilitarization plan would place the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, NCAG, at the center of disarmament and governance. The principles envisage dismantling armed groups, verified disarmament, and a phased redeployment of Israeli forces to a security perimeter, with a transition to Palestinian-led administration once disarmament is confirmed and credible. The approach aims to tie reconstruction to disarmament, with heavy weapons and military infrastructure removed in a staged, verifiable process and personal arms retired over time as NCAG policing capacity grows. While the PA has signaled it does not want militias in Gaza or the West Bank, Israel has conditioned the PA’s return on substantial reforms and ensured the plan allows for a calibrated Israeli redeployment as security conditions allow. The process would be overseen by American representatives and a technocratic Palestinian-led mechanism in the final stage, with Ali Shaath identified as a leading figure to head a transitional committee before handing over to Palestinian governance.

Amid the broader conflict environment, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire for many residents. News from Davos, where world leaders discussed Gaza’s prospects, contrasts with the daily reality on the ground: tens of thousands of displaced Gazans continue to live in tents or damaged structures as winter bites. Aid flows have increased since the ceasefire, but fuel and firewood are scarce, and prices remain high. Officials and residents say the war’s aftershocks persist, and sporadic Israeli strikes continue to be linked to ceasefire violations. In Gaza City and across southern Gaza, civilians describe cold, damp conditions and limited access to essentials, such as fuel for heating and cooking. The broader political dynamic continues to unfold against the backdrop of international attention on Hamas and broader questions of long-term solution and accountability.

In Israel, public demonstrations highlighting the rise of organized crime in the Arab sector illustrate domestic security pressures. Tens of thousands gathered in Sakhnin and other communities, calling for effective policing and safety for all citizens. Arab leaders and opposition figures criticized the government’s handling of crime, while Prime Minister Netanyahu argued that the issue is a national priority and that the government has implemented funding and oversight measures. The protest underscored longstanding concerns about violence and crime in Arab communities and the perception of uneven protection across society. In parallel, a Knesset debate on the government’s response to violent crime drew cross-party scrutiny, with opposition voices urging accelerated reforms and greater protection for citizens.

On the international side, there are ongoing concerns about sanctions and illicit finance networks. A London-based company connected to Al Masirah TV, the Houthi outlet, has raised new questions about sanctions evasion and potential access points for Iran-backed groups. Investigations into a decade-long Houthi-linked presence in the U.K. illustrate how such networks may be used to support operations or to facilitate movement of personnel and funds, highlighting the broader challenge of monitoring propaganda and illicit activity across borders. Security analysts warn that these patterns could enable extremist actors to adapt and operate with greater anonymity, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in oversight and enforcement.

In Europe, France announced the interception of a sanctioned Russian tanker in the Mediterranean as part of ongoing efforts to curb Moscow’s oil exports in the face of sanctions. The operation, conducted on high seas with allied support, involved the GRINCH, a vessel suspected of evading restrictions and operating under a false flag. The incident, which authorities described as part of a wider “shadow fleet,” illustrates the continuing tension between sanction regimes and sanctioned actors seeking to sustain revenue for ongoing conflicts. The case has been referred for further investigation by French authorities, and it underscores the broader global dimension of sanctions enforcement.

Within regional security, the conflict remains active at the operational level. An IDF unit has started digging a defensive trench along the Yellow Ceasefire Line in Gaza to add a physical barrier beyond electronic surveillance and outposts. The move reflects ongoing assessments that even advanced sensors and fortifications can be overwhelmed if there is no substantial physical impediment to deter or slow attacks. As always, Israel emphasizes the need for robust security measures while pursuing de-escalation and stability through coordination with regional partners and international diplomacy.

On the domestic political front, discussions of policy and governance continue in both Israeli and international forums. Notably, in Florida, lawmakers advanced a bill to prohibit the use of the term West Bank in official documents, replacing it with Judea and Samaria. The measure, designed to standardize terminology in official materials, raises questions about historical framing and policy messaging, further illustrating how disputes in language can intersect with broader geopolitical narratives.

In addition to these developments, there are ongoing human-interest stories that reflect the broader human dimension of the region’s conflicts. For example, entertainer and athlete milestones—such as Israel’s participation in international events or achievements by Israeli athletes—remain a symbol of normalcy and resilience in the face of long-standing tensions.

This hour’s brief highlights a range of forces shaping the Middle East: ISIS detainee transfers and Iraqi judicial steps, a strategic US approach to deterring Iran through advanced maritime capabilities and a coordinated regional posture, a phased Gaza demilitarization framework linked to reconstruction, domestic security challenges within Israel’s Arab communities, sanctions enforcement and international counterterrorism intelligence, and continued humanitarian concerns in Gaza alongside ongoing diplomacy and regional security efforts. We will continue to monitor these developments and report with the clarity and balance our audience expects.

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-884272
https://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-884128
https://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-884271
https://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-884270
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-884264
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-884269
https://www.jpost.com/internation

HEADLINES
US-Backed Gaza Demilitarization Framework Unveiled
Kushner Unveils $25B Gaza Reconstruction Plan
Florida Replaces West Bank with Judea Samaria

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

At 1:00 PM, here is the latest update on the Middle East and related global developments with an emphasis on Israeli security concerns and the perspectives of Jewish communities around the world.

The central development this hour is a US-backed framework for Gaza’s future that would place a tightly managed path to demilitarization at the heart of any reconstruction. The plan envisions the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, or NCAG, dismantling armed groups and running a verified disarmament process. That verification would enable phased Israeli redeployments toward a security perimeter and a transition to a Palestinian-led administration under reforms. Under the framework, NCAG would authorize weapons, enforce a single system of law and command, and oversee or integrate armed groups after rigorous vetting. The aim is that Gaza would reach a stage where only NCAG-sanctioned personnel may carry weapons. Heavily armed forces, tunnels, production sites, and military infrastructure would be dismantled or destroyed in a sector-by-sector plan, with arms decommissioned in tandem with capacity-building for NCAG policing. Reconstruction would proceed only in areas where disarmament is complete, creating a direct incentive for compliance. A staged verification process would guide IDF redeployments to the perimeter, culminating in a full pullback once demilitarization is confirmed across the territory. The plan presents the NCAG as the initial governing body, with a later handover to a Palestinian Authority authority after reforms, while noting that the PA has publicly indicated there is no room for militias in Gaza or the West Bank. Israel has consistently conditioned any PA return on reforms, and the demilitarization blueprint ties security to investment, with amnesty, reintegration, or safe passage offered to those who disarm. The plan also ties personal security guarantees to sequencing: heavy weapons are removed immediately, while personal arms are registered and retired as NCAG policing capacity grows, with an independent verification process governing milestones and reconstruction. In parallel, reconstruction would begin only after complete disarmament, and the IDF would withdraw to the security perimeter only once Gaza-wide demilitarization is achieved under agreed standards. The NCAG would include US representatives and would hand control of Gaza to a 15-member technocratic committee led by a Gaza-born figure, Ali Shaath. Israel’s position remains that Hamas must disarm and, critically, the remains of missing hostages must be returned before any second phase proceeds.

In Davos this week, the administration also elevated plans to reshape Gaza’s future through private investment and governance reforms. Jared Kushner unveiled what he called a “master plan” to rebuild Gaza as a corridor of opportunity and seaside development, with a projected investment of at least $25 billion. The plan envisions a seaport and an airport, phased reconstruction starting in Rafah and moving north, and a long-term economic horizon that includes a target of 100 percent employment and a GDP of about $10 billion within ten years. The project emphasizes security and governance as prerequisites for growth, arguing that the current economy—where roughly 85 percent of activity has been aid-driven—cannot sustain dignity or hope. The proposal asserts that reconstruction would proceed only where disarmament is complete and that, in the absence of Hamas disarmament, there would be no progress. Some disarmed operatives could receive amnesty or reintegration, while others would be integrated into the NCAG after vetting. Kushner underscored the international verification and Palestinian-led governance elements and noted that the NCAG’s work would be overseen by a Board of Peace. He also highlighted the potential role of international investors, while acknowledging risks and calling for broad backing from partners. The plan is designed to entice capital, with the belief that security and reliable governance are the only path to a viable Gaza economy and regional stability.

On the domestic front, a notable policy development in the United States touches on symbolism and history but carries implications for how regional names are perceived. Florida’s House of Representatives approved a bill that would bar the use of the term “West Bank” in official state materials, directing that Judea and Samaria be used instead. The measure, part of a broader suite of recognitions, also aims to prohibit spending on materials that continue to use the “West Bank” term, with a July 1, 2026 effective date. Proponents argue that language matters for accuracy and historical treatment, while opponents warn the policy could heighten tensions and complicate educational content in schools and libraries. As the debate unfolds, the broader US conversation about Israel and the Palestinian territories continues to be shaped by questions of governance, incitement, and the framing of the conflict in public discourse.

Turning to the broader regional and global security landscape, a high-profile naval action underscored ongoing enforcement of sanctions. The French navy, with allied support, intercepted a sanctioned Russian tanker in the Western Mediterranean en route from Murmansk, in what France described as a maritime operation conducted under the Law of the Sea and with the participation of several partners. The interception highlights the continuing effects of sanctions on Russia’s oil trade and the challenge of policing a global energy market amid a multipolar security environment.

In Tehran, the crackdown on nationwide protests has continued to draw international attention and concern. An ongoing, deadly crackdown has drawn a stark picture from Iranian observers and dissidents who describe a climate of fear and repression. Iranian authorities have presented official tolls that officials and rights groups dispute, with NGOs suggesting the death toll could be far higher. The Iranian leadership has issued warnings to the United States and Israel about potential responses in the event of further external intervention or pressure, while US and Israeli officials have indicated they remain open to dialogue, even as they emphasize that coercive or military action is not ruled out should security conditions deteriorate. The situation remains fluid, with domestic pressures persisting and international diplomacy attempting to balance pressure, potential leverage, and the risk of broader conflict.

Across the Atlantic and in global capitals, related developments continue to shape the landscape around Israel and the Jewish world. In New York, an arrest involving antisemitic violence underscored threats faced by Jewish communities abroad, mirroring concerns about anti-Jewish hatred that have accompanied the broader regional turmoil. In another development, US immigration and security authorities announced a deportation plan involving an anti-Israel activist linked to a controversial campus movement, a reminder of the ongoing domestic political battles over Middle East policy and the safety of Jewish and pro-Israel voices on American campuses.

Within Israel, the Knesset advanced legislation restricting employment pathways for teachers who hold degrees from Palestinian Authority universities, tying accreditation to Israeli credentials. Lawmakers argued the measure is necessary to limit exposure to incitement, while critics warned it would deepen discrimination and affect Arab education. The bill has drawn criticism from Arab lawmakers and education advocates who say it could harm opportunities for Arab students and teachers, and its practical application will be watched closely as the bill moves through committee review and into law.

In the arts and culture world, an Israeli film received an Oscar nomination in the Best Live Action Short category, while the country’s broader Oscar entries reflected a diverse slate of Palestinian and regional storytelling. The recognition underscores the cross-cultural dialogue that persists even amid conflict and political tensions, though studios and audiences alike are attentive to how such works frame the realities of life in the region.

As the day progresses, the questions that shape policy and action remain clear: Can a verifiable, phased disarmament framework unlock reconstruction and investment while preserving Israel’s security needs and regional stability? Will Palestinian governance reforms enable a sustainable transition away from militias? And how will external powers balance strategic interests with humanitarian concerns in Gaza, Iran, and the broader Middle East?

What to watch next: the timeline and milestones for disarmament verification, the progress of reconstruction funding and investor commitments, and any new developments in regional diplomacy that could affect security arrangements along the Gaza perimeter and beyond. The situation remains dynamic, with Israel’s security interests and regional stability at the center of ongoing discussions among policymakers, international partners, and the communities most directly affected.

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-884257
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-884263
https://t.me/Newss0nline/58254
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-884260
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-

HEADLINES
US-led Gaza demilitarization under NCAG unfolds
EU designates Iran's Guards Basij terrorists
Syria Kurdish-led truce talks seek unified framework

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

This is the midday news update. In a set of coordinated moves aimed at shaping Gaza’s future, the United States outlined a tightly sequenced demilitarization plan led by the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza. The proposal calls for the dismantling of armed groups, a verified disarmament process, and a calibrated withdrawal of the Israeli military to a security perimeter, followed by a transition to Palestinian-led governance. The plan envisions the NCAG authorizing all weapons and enforcing one legal framework and a single chain of command, with all armed groups integrated or dismantled after rigorous vetting. The end state would allow only personnel licensed by the NCAG to bear arms. Heavy weapons, tunnels, production sites, and military infrastructure would be destroyed comprehensively, while personal arms would be registered and retired as NCAG policing capacity grows. Reconstruction would proceed only in sectors where disarmament is complete, creating a direct incentive for compliance. Verification would be phased, triggering calibrated redeployments of the Israeli military to the perimeter, culminating in a full pullback once demilitarization is confirmed. Under the plan, the NCAG would be the initial governing body, with authority later transferring to the Palestinian Authority after reforms. The Palestinian Authority has publicly stated there is no room for militias and armed groups in Gaza or the West Bank, while Israeli officials have conditioned any Palestinian Authority return on major reforms. To encourage compliance, the paper pairs disarmament with amnesty, reintegration, or safe passage. Personal security guarantees are staged: heavy weapons would be removed immediately, while personal arms would be registered and retired as NCAG policing capacity expands. A sequenced, independently verified process would govern each step, from local decommissioning milestones to sectoral reconstruction and staged Israeli redeployments. Gaza-wide completion would trigger the withdrawal to the security perimeter under agreed standards. The plan envisions the NCAG initially drawing authority from United States representatives, with the goal of handing control to a fifteen-member technocratic committee led by Gaza-born Ali Shaath, a former Palestinian Authority official with experience in planning and international cooperation. Israel has repeatedly insisted that Hamas must disarm and return the remains of the final hostage, Ran Gvili, before Phase II can officially begin. The discussion around amnesty and potential integration of Hamas members into new security structures raises questions about vetting, oversight, and accountability, including who would verify registrations and how disputes would be resolved. The plan ties disarmament to reconstruction incentives and argues that a secure, demilitarized Gaza would unlock investment, while a staged IDF redeployment would proceed only as milestones are met. In Washington’s view, the phased approach is designed to reduce risks while building a pathway to Palestinian governance with robust security guarantees.

In related governance discussions, a separate policy thread has drawn regional attention. A Florida legislative effort would rename a historical geographic term and remove the label “West Bank” from official materials, replacing it with Judea and Samaria. The bills, introduced in both chambers, would prohibit official materials from using the term West Bank and would take effect in mid-2026. Supporters emphasize historical and regional naming, while critics caution that terminology can affect diplomacy and on-the-ground perceptions. The political maneuvering reflects broader tensions over how the conflict is framed in public policy at the state level in the United States.

Turning to the broader security landscape, a United States envoy urged all parties to uphold a truce between the Syrian government and Kurdish-led forces in the northeast. The talks come as Damascus seeks greater central authority and the Syrian Democratic Forces resist full integration into state structures. The envoy noted United States support for a process that would align forces with a unified framework while preserving local autonomy in Kurdish-majority areas. Regional observers say the situation remains delicate, with both sides blaming the other for violations while international pressure mounts to prevent further destabilization near Hasakah and other key zones.

In Europe, lawmakers pressed for tougher actions on Iran’s Revolutionary Guards. The European Parliament approved a measure urging the designation of the Guards and its Basij arm as terrorist organizations, a move aimed at signaling stronger support for protesters in Iran and increasing pressure on Tehran’s leadership. The decision comes amid continuing turmoil inside Iran, where authorities say hundreds or thousands have died in crackdown efforts, and the international community debates next steps for accountability and diplomatic strategy.

On the security front inside Israel and the Palestinian territories, Israeli security forces conducted a counterterrorism operation in Hebron, where forces searched buildings, arrested suspects, and seized weapons and equipment. The operation included the destruction of a Hamas tunnel and efforts to curb ongoing violence in the area, underscoring the persistent threat environment and the government’s emphasis on preventing attacks on settlers and communities.

The Middle East and surrounding regions also continue to watch developments around Iran’s posture and its leadership’s response to global pressure. Iranian authorities have maintained that the Revolutionary Guards, along with other security forces, are prepared to defend the regime, while regional leaders warn of escalating instability if external actor involvement increases. Israeli President Isaac Herzog, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, described the Iranian leadership as facing significant domestic challenges and suggested that the future of Iran could move toward substantial change, a prognosis that remains contested among international observers.

In cultural and geopolitical notes, Israel’s film and arts scene continues to reflect the conflict’s impact, with several Gaza-related titles receiving Oscar consideration. While artistic achievements draw international attention, the broader security and humanitarian questions surrounding Gaza remain at the forefront of regional debate and policy formulation.

From Hebron to Hasakah, from Gaza’s demilitarization plan to European actions on Iran, today’s headlines illustrate a regional chessboard where security, governance, and international diplomacy are intertwined. As discussions evolve, the international community will be watching how verification, accountability, and local governance translate into tangible safety and stability for civilians on the ground. This is the midday update.

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-884257
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-884263
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https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/01/spain-closes-pegasus-spyware-probe-again-saying-israel-has-not-responded
https://t.me/newssil/188317
https://t.me/newssil/188316
https://t.me/newssil/188315
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https://t.me/newssil/188314
https://t.me/newssil/188313
https://t.me/abualiexpress/113339
https://t.me/newssil/188311

HEADLINES
- Gaza peace board proposed to govern
- Drone smuggling attempt foiled at border
- Iran warns with finger on the trigger

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

Good morning. International attention remains focused on the evolving plans for Gaza’s future as Washington presses ahead with what is described as the Gaza Board of Peace. At the World Economic Forum in Davos, President Donald Trump, with longtime adviser Jared Kushner, outlined a phased approach aimed at ending the war in Gaza and creating a governance framework for the Strip. The proposal contemplates a board largely led by American officials, with an executive committee that would include representatives from Qatar, Turkey, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. A new Palestinian administration would oversee Gaza’s civilian affairs under US supervision, while a national committee for the administration of Gaza, or NCAG, would supervise policing and security functions as a bridge to a longer-term arrangement.

The plan centers on Hamas disarmament of heavy weapons, including rockets, missiles, and weaponized drones, and the potential ceding of much of Gaza’s tunnel network. It also envisions a pathway for some Hamas members to be integrated or reintegrated into a new Gaza police structure, potentially accompanied by amnesty or safe passage. Critics in Israel caution that regional involvement raises questions about verification, enforcement, and the scope of oversight; they say security guarantees must be airtight to prevent a power vacuum or renewed rocket fire. Israeli officials have signaled openness to dialogue but have stressed that any framework must preserve Israel’s fundamental security red lines and its ability to respond to threats.

On the ground, Israel’s security posture remains active. The IDF reports continued counterterrorism activity in Judea and Samaria and in the Hebron area, where forces conducted operations, searched buildings, and arrested suspects connected to ongoing threats. Weapons and equipment were seized as part of these efforts, which the army says are meant to prevent attacks and bolster civilian security in the settlements. In a related development, the IDF says a drone crossing into Israeli territory from the east attempted to smuggle weapons, including ten firearms, highlighting a growing risk from aerial smuggling as borders along Jordan and Egypt remain difficult to seal completely. Security officials warn that drones not only carry weapons but can be reused, making border protection a persistent challenge.

Across the region, Iran remains a pivotal factor in the regional security equation. At Davos, Tehran’s leadership warned that the Revolutionary Guards have a “finger on the trigger,” a signal viewed in Jerusalem and Washington as a forceful reminder of the risks surrounding any confrontation with Iran. At the same time, Iranian authorities released figures on protests that erupted after the country’s crackdown on dissent, a toll that rights groups dispute as lower than the real figure. Israeli President Isaac Herzog, speaking at Davos, suggested that the Iranian regime’s long-term future lies in change from within, a view shared by some Western observers who favor diplomatic engagement alongside pressure sanctions.

In the broader international arena, the discourse around Gaza and regional security includes questions about who should lead and how to balance regional actors’ roles with Western oversight. Some European partners have urged caution about inviting leaders from outside the traditional framework, while others emphasize the need for practical steps toward reconstruction and stability. The question that dominates discussions is whether a unified framework can be built that reduces Hamas’s capacity to threaten Israel while delivering meaningful governance, humanitarian relief, and economic prospects for Gaza’s people.

In legal and accountability headlines, developments abroad touch on cyber security and the limits of foreign cooperation. Spain’s High Court recently closed an inquiry into the use of an Israeli cyber-intelligence tool to monitor Spanish politicians, citing insufficient cooperation from Israeli authorities to advance the case. The decision reflects ongoing sensitivity around the use of surveillance technology and the consequences for political accountability in allied states.

Closer to home, matters of security and civil order at the domestic level continue to be debated in several democracies. In the United States, authorities have charged a man with hate crimes in connection with an antisemitic assault in Manhattan, underscoring domestic concerns about anti-Jewish violence even as international events unfold. The incident and its aftermath serve as a reminder that, for many Jewish communities abroad, security and anti-hate protections remain a daily priority.

Looking ahead, the Gaza Board of Peace initiative will proceed with its negotiations and procedural milestones. Washington says the aim is to pave the way for a ceasefire that endures and for reconstruction that empowers local governance, while Israeli officials insist any plan must maintain a secure environment and prevent a resurgence of Hamas’s armed capabilities. The world will be watching how the coalition partners manage trust, verification, and the difficult tradeoffs that come with integrating regional actors into a framework designed to secure long-term stability in the region. This is a moment when diplomacy, security, and the daily realities of life in Gaza and across the surrounding states intersect in a test of endurance, leadership, and resolve.

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-884254
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-884252
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-884250
https://www.jpost.com/podcast/article-884095
https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-884247
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-884244
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https://www.jpost.com/podcast/jpost-headlines/article-884237
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https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-884233
https://t.me/newssil/188318
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/01/spain-closes-pegasus-spyware-probe-again-saying-israel-has-not-responded
https://t.me/newssil/188317
https://t.me/newssil/188316
https://t.me/newssil/188315
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/01/iran-warns-finger-trigger-trump-says-it-wants-talks
https://t.me/newssil/188314
https://t.me/newssil/188313
https://t.me/abualiexpress/113339
https://t.me/newssil/188312
https://t.me/newssil/188311
https://www.timesofisrael.com/flanked-by-world-leaders-in-davos-trump-launches-his-board-of-peace/
https://t.me/newssil/188310
https://t.me/newssil/188309
https://www.timesofisrael.com/knesset-approves-first-reading-of-bill-banning-use-of-skunk-spray-on-protesters/
https://t.me/newssil/188308

HEADLINES
Kushner unveils Gaza Riviera redevelopment plan
Arctic security US eyes Greenland access
Rafah reopening hinges on Hamas disarmament

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

At 10:00 a.m. in Davos and on the wider Middle East stage, a blend of diplomacy, security alerts, and economic proposals is shaping the news cycle. The biggest thread centers on the United States’ evolving approach to conflict resolution, security, and reconstruction, marked by President Trump’s push for a global Board of Peace and a parallel effort to redraw Gaza’s prospects. In parallel, battlefield realities in Gaza and along Israel’s borders continue to test ceasefire commitments and the security calculus of neighboring states.

First, Greenland and Arctic security. President Trump said in Davos that Washington is negotiating for “total access” to Greenland, insisting that a presence there would serve US national security needs as Arctic dynamics shift. He stressed that the negotiations with Denmark and Greenland are not framed as a purchase, but as an arrangement that guarantees American access. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, speaking at the same forum, underscored that any Arctic security framework would be fast-tracked and would expect participation from non-Arctic allies, with results hoped for as early as 2026. The precise terms, notably how minerals or resources might factor in, were not part of the public briefings, but the message from Brussels and Davos was clear: Arctic security is moving higher on the alliance agenda, with or without a rapid conclusion.

On the peace front, the Board of Peace steps into clearer focus. President Trump unveiled a charter-signing ceremony in Davos that highlighted a growing roster of participating states and entities, with the aim of expanding diplomacy beyond traditional channels. He described a process that would leverage international partnerships and, he said, would be pursued in concert with the United Nations. The board’s initial signatories include a broad spectrum of Middle Eastern and global actors, and officials in Jerusalem and Rabat signaled cautious engagement as dialogue proceeds. The rhetoric is optimistic, but the details—funding, governance, and enforcement—remain to be filled in as member states weigh their commitments against regional realities.

Within the same frame, Jared Kushner presented a concrete, vision-driven plan for Gaza, described as a “master plan” to rebuild and redevelop the strip. The slides showcased a skyline of residential towers, data centers, and coastal promenades, stretching across a coastal economy envisioned to become the “Riviera of the Middle East.” The plan, according to Kushner, would require substantial private-sector investment, with a target of reviving Gaza’s economy, expanding employment, and stabilizing the enclave’s urban core. However, the sketches left several critical questions unresolved: who would fund the effort, how property rights and compensation would be handled for those displaced, and where displaced Gazans would reside during early phases of reconstruction. A Washington conference is expected to outline contributions in the coming weeks, with Kushner noting earlier efforts to anchor a portion of the funding.

In parallel, the administration tentatively linked the redevelopment vision to a security framework. The project’s first phase would see changes in Rafah and Khan Yunis, while a broader peacekeeping or stabilizing presence—international in scope—could accompany a phased withdrawal by Israeli forces as Hamas disarms. The practicalities—ceasefire verification, hostage return, and a credible security guarantee for both sides—remain central to any durable path.

News from the ground in Gaza and along the border remains grave. Health officials report that Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed five people on Thursday, a reminder that the truce framework remains fragile as incidents threaten to derail progress. In Jerusalem, Israeli officials have refrained from public comment, while security ministers weigh the balance between disarmament incentives and civilian protection as cross-border hostilities persist.

Looking to the Rafah crossing, there is a persistent expectation of a reopening. Ali Shaath, the technocrat head of the Gaza administration committee backed by Washington, said Rafah would open next week in both directions. Israel, which controls the Gaza side of the crossing, has signaled that any reopening hinges on Hamas fulfilling disarmament obligations and the return of the last Israeli hostage remains, Ran Gvili. The policy tension here is palpable: Washington’s ceasefire architecture envisions a more open Gaza, but Israeli security concerns keep the crossing under tight scrutiny and operational control.

Across the border, the security picture remains uneven. The Israeli Defense Forces conducted a counterterrorism operation in Hebron, with several suspects arrested and weapons seized as part of a broader effort to disrupt terror networks in Judea and Samaria. IDF chief of staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir described the effort as proactive and sustained, designed to preempt attacks and strengthen settlement security. He warned against vigilante action and stressed that only security forces have the authority to use force in pursuing this mission.

On the technology front, Israel’s defense and tech sectors continued to innovate under pressure. Intel’s latest processor families, developed in Israel during the Gaza War, are being pitched as delivering longer battery life and enhanced AI compatibility. The Israeli team’s resilience under missiles and sirens during the war has become part of the broader narrative about how Israel’s tech ecosystem persists in times of conflict, signaling ongoing collaboration with global markets even as security concerns persist.

Global voices at Davos also weighed in on Iran. The European Parliament approved a resolution condemning Tehran’s human rights abuses and urging the European Council to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The resolution calls for expanded sanctions and a harder line on Tehran, insisting that progress toward democratic reforms and accountability be a precondition for any broader engagement. The debate reflected a wider Western stance that ties regional stability to Iran’s internal behavior and regional influence, a theme that resonates across capitals where policymakers watch for a possible shift in Iran’s posture.

In parallel, a reminder of regional history and ongoing legal accountability came from a different front: Israel’s Supreme Court ruled that the name of a man accused of infiltrating IDF command facilities in the days after October 7 may be published, signaling a shift toward greater transparency in high-security cases while maintaining narrow protections for sensitive witnesses. The decision highlighted the delicate balance courts strike between open justice and security needs in a time of ongoing conflict.

Turning to broader public attitudes, Canada’s Jewish community survey found a majority opposition to West Bank settlement expansion and broad support for Israel’s security needs in Gaza. The survey also indicates varied views on democracy and governance within Israel, including concerns about judicial reforms. Across the Atlantic, Canadian Jewish voters express support for a two-state framework by a narrow margin, signaling a nuanced stance on long-term peace and security in the region.

In the humanitarian and security corridor, the Rafah crossing's role remains pivotal. Gaza officials indicate that the crossing could reopen in both directions under security oversight, a move that would facilitate movement of people and goods while requiring coordinated security arrangements among Israeli, Egyptian, and international partners. Washington’s Board of Peace framing and Kushner’s redevelopment plan are being positioned as pillars of a broader strategy to stabilize Gaza, though the path remains contested and dependent on Hamas disarmament, hostage returns, and sustained ceasefire compliance.

Meanwhile, Iraq announced it would prosecute Islamic State detainees transferred from Syria as part of a broader legal process following the collapse of Kurdish-led security in northeast Syria. The first batch includes about 150 detainees, with up to 7,000 potentially moving in the coming period. Iraq’s judiciary says these cases will proceed under due process, while international observers monitor for risks surrounding detention conditions, security, and jurisdiction. This development underscores the spillover effects of the Syrian-Kurdish collapse, including the need for regional coordination on security and justice.

In journalism and memory, the passing of Eliezer Tsafrir, a veteran Mossad and Shin Bet figure who served as Tehran’s last Mossad station chief before 1979, was noted this week. Tsafrir’s life story—the arc from covert operations to high-level counterterrorism advising—offers historical context for how Israeli intelligence shaped regional dynamics across decades of upheaval.

Finally, the day’s competitive energy story comes from the drones’ frontier. Israeli border guards report continued challenges from drone smuggling, including drones that have carried firearms near Jordan and Egypt. The IDF notes ongoing efforts to counter this threat, including measures to detect and neutralize drones before they reach population centers. The combination of border pressures and sophisticated smuggling attempts keeps security officials on alert as they guard key crossings and urban communities.

In sum, the currents in play depict a United States seeking a more active, globally engaged peacemaker role, while a charged security environment tests any grand blueprint for Gaza, the West Bank, and regional stability. Greenland’s strategic footprint, the Board of Peace’s

HEADLINES
Iranian spying surge 2025: 25 Israelis indicted
Gaza 2025: Hamas leaders killed, casualties rise
Rafah crossing to reopen next week

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

This is the 9:00 AM news update.

In a sweeping security assessment, Israel’s Shin Bet reported that 2025 saw a sharp surge in Iranian spying activity directed at Israelis, alongside continued efforts by various groups linked to Israel’s borders and settlements. The agency said 25 Israelis, including Jews, and foreigners living in Israel were indicted for spying for Iran in 2025, and it noted that Iranian plots to recruit Israelis as spies rose by 400 percent from 2024, which itself had seen a 400 percent rise from 2023. The Shin Bet said it thwarted 120 separate Iranian spying operations that year. Most of the Jewish-Israeli individuals who spied for Iran acted for financial gain and focused on photographing installations or gathering other information. In a related security update, the Shin Bet reported 130 Israeli-Arabs indicted for terror-related offenses and 219 arrested; the report noted 40 cases in which Israeli-Arabs pledged allegiance to or undertook activities for ISIS, and indicated about 20 Israeli-Arab minors were interrogated for terror connections, with likely references to attempts at using artificial intelligence content in phishing-style efforts to compromise Israeli accounts. Collectively, Israeli-Arab actors were linked to five actual terror attacks. Beyond that, 129 east Jerusalem residents were arrested on terror suspicions, and 2,530 West Bank Palestinians were arrested in Shin Bet enforcement actions. On Gaza, Shin Bet said 2025 involved 300 full interrogations in its facilities and 1,250 Gazan terrorists interrogated at the joint IDF-Shin Bet Sde Teiman facility, with information from those interrogations aiding the location of senior Hamas leaders and Israeli hostages. In numbers, Shin Bet’s operations helped account for the killing of about 1,200 Gazan terrorists in 2025, of nearly 2,500 killed in the conflict, with more than 200 of those at senior command levels, including six top Hamas leaders such as Mohammed Sinwar, Raad Saad, and Mohammed Shabanah. The annual report did not include statistics on nationalist Jewish violence, and the Jerusalem Post reported that the agency had not replied to a request for that data. Separately, the Israeli military acknowledged that 2025 saw a rise in nationalist Jewish incidents—violent attacks and vandalism against Palestinian property—surging to 867, up from 682 in 2024, though still below peaks seen in 2023 and 2022. Officials stressed that the rise included more serious incidents and mass assaults, not just single attacks, underscoring concerns about security and stability across the West Bank and within Israel’s borders.

In European diplomacy, the European Parliament adopted a resolution condemning Iran’s crackdown on protesters, urging the European Council to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and to extend restrictive measures such as visa bans and asset freezes. The motion, approved by a large majority, called for immediate action to halt executions, release detainees, and push for progress toward democracy and the rule of law in Iran. The resolution’s passage followed contentious debate over how to address Tehran’s human rights record and the behavior of Iranian authorities toward dissenters and protesters.

On the judicial front in Israel, the Supreme Court ruled that the name of a man who infiltrated IDF command facilities after the October 7 attacks may be published, in a case tied to high-security matters within the Southern Command. The defendant, Assaf Shmuelovitz, faces charges including aggravated espionage and unlawful possession of classified material. The decision reflects a shift toward greater openness in a case characterized by extensive prior publication bans due to national security concerns. The court also tightened rules on what may be disclosed about senior IDF witnesses, allowing identification by rank for officers at colonel rank and above rather than by name.

In Paris, France’s Law Committee advanced a controversial bill aimed at combating “renewed forms of antisemitism,” expanding provisions to criminalize implicit praise, minimize or trivialize terrorism, and even penalize certain anti-Israel rhetoric if framed as antisemitism. The measure, which would broaden protections but has drawn criticism for potentially penalizing political speech and debate around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, passed the committee on a close vote and awaits full parliamentary consideration.

Among North American Jewish communities, a 2025 Canadian Jewish voters survey found a plurality stance on the conflict: 53% oppose settlement expansion in the West Bank and Gaza, and 70% justify the war in Gaza as self-defense, hostage recovery, or a conventional military operation. About 75% describe Israel as a democracy, while roughly half see reforms to the Israeli judiciary as a threat to democracy. A small majority—52%—back a two-state solution, and 51% say they support Israeli security while opposing settlements as a violation of international law. The survey points to a diverse, values-based approach within the diaspora, including support for democracy, security, and long-term peace.

In Gaza and regional diplomacy, reports from Gaza indicate that the Rafah crossing with Egypt was described as set to reopen next week by Palestinian officials, signaling a potential shift in movement for Palestinians in Gaza. Israel has not issued a formal directive to reopen Rafah, and Israeli authorities have been cautious in commenting on this development amid ongoing ceasefire discussions tied to a broader diplomatic push led by international actors. Separately, in Washington, Jared Kushner unveiled a plan for a rebuilt Gaza, dubbed “New Gaza,” at Davos as part of a broader peace effort. The plan envisions a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar program designed to transform Gaza’s economy, but Kushner warned that progress depends on Hamas disarming and disbanding militant structures.

On a separate security note, satellite reporting and field briefings reveal that in Gaza’s Al-Tuffah district, blocks marking what some describe as a de facto armistice boundary were moved deeper into Hamas-controlled territory in December, with subsequent demolition of dozens of buildings and displacement of residents. The United States has backed the ceasefire framework that accompanies such lines, even as Israel maintains control over large swaths of Gaza and pursues operations against Hamas’ tunnel networks. Officials note that a broad set of constraints and security interests shape these movements, including protection of Israeli forces and civilian populations on both sides of the boundary.

In memoriam, Eliezer Tsafrir, a longtime Israeli intelligence figure and the last Mossad station chief in Tehran before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, passed away at age 92. Tsafrir’s career spanned decades of regional upheaval, from Kurdish affairs to Iran, and he played a central role in shaping Israel’s early intelligence posture in a region where alliances and rivalries shifted with clocklike regularity. He is remembered for his contributions to the periphery doctrine and for his long service across multiple theaters of operation.

In domestic security matters, an Israeli police officer, Superintendent Meir Swissa, was convicted of reckless and negligent conduct for ordering stun grenades against anti-government demonstrators in 2023, a move that critics said violated police protocols and endangered elderly protesters. The case continues to unfold as sentencing proceeds, with the National Security Minister’s push to promote Swissa on hold pending the outcome of ongoing proceedings. The broader context remains a topic of political debate as security and civil liberties intersect on the streets of major Israeli cities.

Finally, in global diplomacy, Donald Trump’s Board of Peace initiative has begun to take shape, with a charter-signing event at Davos and reports that a coalition of countries—including several Arab states and major regional actors—has joined or expressed intent to join. Trump suggests that the board, once fully formed, could operate in concert with the United Nations to address wider regional and global challenges, including the Gaza situation and broader conflict resolution efforts. Netanyahu has indicated himself open to engagement with the board, while several European and other powers have said they are studying the proposal, with some declining to join at this stage. As these developments unfold, the region remains in a state of vigilant watch, with security concerns, humanitarian needs, and the push for broader peace and stability shaping every decision at the table.

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-884227
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-884226
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https://t.me/abualiexpress/113334
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https://t.me/newssil/188299

HEADLINES
Tel Aviv top cop convicted over grenades
Gaza plan bets $25B on 2035 boom
Arab towns strike over police violence

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

Good morning. Here is the latest on the Middle East security and diplomacy picture as of eight this morning.

In Tel Aviv, a breakthrough in a high-profile police case was delivered this week. Superintendent Meir Swissa, who previously served as operations officer for the Tel Aviv District, was convicted of reckless and negligent conduct for ordering stun grenades against demonstrators during 2023 anti-government protests. Prosecutors had filed an amended indictment that followed a plea agreement with the Police Investigations Department, though the department had cautioned that Swissa’s admission might not be genuine. The court accepted the plea and entered a conviction, with sentencing arguments now forthcoming. The case drew attention because the grenades were deployed into a densely packed crowd amid nonviolent demonstrations, raising concerns about police protocols and crowd safety. Four other officers charged in connection with the incident were either cleared in disciplinary proceedings or faced limited charges in a separate arrangement. The proceedings have intersected with political debate in Israel, as the case and the officers’ conduct have spurred discussions about policing during mass demonstrations and the potential impact on police leadership.

On the international front, a detailed plan for Gaza’s economic transformation was unveiled in Davos by Jared Kushner, representing the so‑called Board of Peace. The plan envisions turning the Gaza Strip into a regional economic hub by 2035, with an estimated investment exceeding $25 billion to develop utilities, public services, infrastructure, and industrial capacity. The blueprint lays out a six-phase development timeline beginning in the southern areas and moving northward, including coastal tourism development with hundreds of towers, industrial zones, a new port and airport, and a cross-border logistics framework. The program projects job creation on the order of half a million positions and significant improvements to GDP and household incomes. The effort is framed as part of a broader American diplomatic approach to Gaza, with the Board of Peace signifying a potential procedural channel that would work alongside, but not replace, existing international institutions such as the United Nations. While several participant states have joined, major powers including some Western allies have been cautious or undecided about full participation, underscoring the political complexity surrounding a major redevelopment and its implications for regional security and diplomacy.

Turning to Washington, the Board of Peace initiative has also entered a broader public discussion about US policy toward Gaza and the region. President Trump, chairing the board, has characterized the Gaza phase as a new era and described a framework in which reconstruction would proceed in coordination with international partners, including the United Nations. The charter ceremony at Davos featured a mix of endorsing leaders and supporters, with some countries signaling intent to participate and others declining or delaying. In parallel, Trump asserted that he had helped secure the release of hostages linked to Gaza and warned that Hamas must return the last remaining hostage, Ran Gvili, before reconstruction proceeds. The initiative is viewed by supporters as a potentially significant new mechanism for regional diplomacy, while critics question whether the board can supersede or bypass established international processes and whether it will produce durable normalization in the absence of a comprehensive peace framework.

In Israel’s domestic security landscape, the country remains grappling with the wider challenge of violent crime in Arab society. Arab leadership and civil society groups organized a nationwide strike, beginning in northern towns and spreading to many Arab municipalities, denouncing police failure to curb violence. The wave of violence has produced a difficult year in 2025, with a record number of homicide victims, and January’s figures continuing that trend. City leaders and members of Hadash‑Ta’al described the strike as a civil, nonviolent protest aimed at pressing authorities to address safety and economic insecurity. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir countered by urging accountability for crime and criticizing leadership for what he called a dual stance toward enforcement. He noted increased resources and actions against crime since taking office in 2023, while acknowledging the ongoing perception among many in Arab communities that law enforcement is not meeting expectations. The protests reflect a broader domestic discussion about security, governance, and the state’s duties to all citizens.

In related security news from the Gaza front, an Israeli reservist who had been seriously wounded in a Hamas attack in Rafah last October has died of his injuries. Sergeant-Major (Res.) Asael Babad, 38, from Geva Binyamin, was serving with the Gaza Division when the October assault targeted army equipment in Rafah. His death brings Israel’s combat fatalities tied to the Gaza operation since the October 7 period into the higher range cited by the military, underscoring the ongoing risks to forces operating in and around the Strip and the continuing cycle of violence even amid indirect or full ceasefires. Officials note that funerals will be held in the coming days and that Babad leaves a wife and five children. The broader tally of fatalities in the Gaza conflict remains a central factor in debates over strategy and the pace of any potential withdrawal or redeployment along the ceasefire line.

In a separate matter tied to hostages, Israeli officials say the government is pursuing a special effort to recover the remains of Ran Gvili, a hostage whose fate has become a focal point in ongoing discussions about the Rafah crossing and the future of cooperation with hostilities’ settlement frameworks. The Cabinet is expected to discuss the operation and the status of Rafah early next week, amid broader questions about whether reopening the crossing would be appropriate or feasible under current conditions. Israeli authorities have indicated there is no directive to reopen Rafah at this time, even as discussions about hostages and post-conflict arrangements continue.

Domestically, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s legal proceedings continue to influence political discourse. President Isaac Herzog said in Davos that any potential presidential pardon would be decided independently and in line with Israeli law and his conscience. Herzog emphasized that the judiciary retains sovereignty and that the decision would be made within established legal norms, amid public interest considerations and questions raised by recent remarks from US leaders. The remarks come as Netanyahu faces a highly scrutinized legal process, with implications for governance, public trust, and the balance between judicial and political authority in Israel.

As the week unfolds, the security and diplomatic landscape in and around Israel continues to be shaped by a mix of domestic legal cases, regional violence and hostage dynamics, and evolving international diplomacy. The Gaza reconstruction conversation, catalyzed by the Board of Peace initiative, points to a potential shift in how the United States and partners approach the peace process and regional stability, though much will depend on how participating states translate commitments into tangible security and economic gains on the ground. In Israel, continued attention to policing, crime prevention in Arab towns, and the broader security posture along the Gaza line remains critical as leaders navigate both immediate threats and longer-term political and judicial questions. This is the current state of play as the day begins.

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/crime-in-israel/article-884218
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