HEADLINES
US carrier Ford deploys amid Iran tensions
Iran US talks resume in Switzerland
IDF strikes Hezbollah as disarmament talks loom

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the standoff has entered its sixth week of escalating rhetoric and visible displays of force. The United States has continued what officials describe as an unprecedented military buildup in the region, led by the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, a deployment expected to last at least three weeks. Iran has pressed ahead with propaganda videos and public demonstrations of its military capabilities, while indirect negotiations are reportedly underway, with a second round set to take place in Switzerland in midweek. There remains a wide gap between combative public declarations and the opening positions on both sides, and observers question whether the talks are a tactic to buy time. Each side has its own interest in delay: Washington seeks additional time to accumulate forces and complete operational planning, and Tehran appears to be betting that the longer the crisis lasts, the more leverage it can press internationally.

US forces boarded the Iranian-linked Veronica III in the Indian Ocean in what the Pentagon described as a maritime right-of-visit interdiction, after tracking the vessel from the Caribbean across international waters. The operation was conducted without incident as part of Washington’s expanded enforcement campaign targeting sanctioned Iranian oil shipments and ghost fleet tankers. The tanker, carrying 1.9 million barrels of oil, escaped from Venezuela on January 3, the day Nicolás Maduro was captured, and violated American sanctions. The US military chased it to the Indian Ocean and stopped it in the last hours.

Iran says energy, mining and aircraft deals on table in talks as US prepares for next round. Tehran and Washington resumed negotiations earlier this month aimed at resolving their decades-long dispute over the Islamic Republic’s nuclear program and averting a new military confrontation.

IDF strikes again Hezbollah continue as key meetings loom over disarmament in Lebanon. Beirut to review second phase of weapons consolidation north of the Litani as Hezbollah refuses to disarm; ceasefire monitoring panel and a March 5 Paris aid conference add pressure amid a diplomatic stalemate.

Iran led by ‘religious Nazis,’ says US senator, comparing Ayatollah to Hitler. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham calls the Iranian regime the mothership of terrorism that must be toppled, drawing a stark comparison to Nazi leadership.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), the Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza, which Doctors Without Borders has left, is described by the IDF as a Hamas headquarters and military post, with armed presence prompting MSF to suspend noncritical medical activity and the military warning against the use of hospitals as bases for terror. The IDF says intelligence indicates Hamas uses the facility to move weapons and coordinate operations, reinforcing calls for disarmament. Turkey’s Diyanet Foundation opened three mosques in Gaza ahead of Ramadan as Ankara expands its religious and political influence in the enclave. The government-approved move to begin a land-registration process in Judea and Samaria marks a significant step, with large tracts of land in the West Bank intended to be registered in the state’s name, overseen by the Land Registration and Rights Settlement Authority as part of the government’s broader plan.

Iranian protestors hand flowers to police. Unlike the pro-Hamas radical mobs that attack officers in the streets and spread Antisemitism, this moment is highlighted as a contrast between courage and chaos.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, President Isaac Herzog announced he will press for anti-gun legislation, arguing that more civilians with permits could raise security risks and telling a delegation of bereaved Arab relatives that banning guns and violence must be a top priority. Separately, reports cite Haredi protesters attacking female soldiers, as Iran protests gain momentum, underscoring domestic tension and protest dynamics. The Attorney-General has not begun reviewing Netanyahu’s pardon request, with the Justice Ministry clarifying that an advisory opinion had not yet been initiated, countering Channel 13’s report of imminent progress.

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.israelhayom.com/2026/02/15/who-truly-benefits-from-the-delay-with-iran/
https://t.me/selena_updates/55303
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/bympf8ydwe
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/h1ledlk00wx
https://worldisraelnews.com/iran-led-by-religious-nazis-says-us-senator-comparing-ayatollah-to-hitler/
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-886721
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-886716
https://t.me/abualiexpress/114730
https://t.me/hnaftali/21267
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-886722
https://www.jpost.com/podcast/jpost-headlines/article-886720
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-886672

HEADLINES
- Iran masterfully uses conflicting signals in talks
- Israel moves to register West Bank lands
- Holocaust survivor Bella attacked in Ramat Gan

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, two opinion pieces frame Iran’s approach to negotiations and power dynamics. The first recalls the twelve-day war of June 2025, when US and Israeli strikes devastated Iran’s enrichment facilities at Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan, and notes that the most effective weapon was cognitive: a cascade of contradictory signals. Reportedly, Tehran was told to “leave,” then told that “Now is the time for peace,” followed by “Unconditional surrender” and then “A real opportunity for negotiations,” leaving Tehran paralyzed as every possible response was pre-emptively mined. Eight months later, a Muscat-based review of Iranian internal communications is said to show that Iran copied the method, refined it, and is running it back against Trump. Across five rounds between Oman and Rome in the spring of 2025, the article says Iran’s approach included enrichment down to 3.67% and the transfer of a stockpile to a third country. When Trump sent contradictory messages, a Foreign Ministry spokesman complained that “The contradictory messages are unhelpful,” and rounds were postponed. The piece argues regimes that survive decades are quick learners, noting that on February 3, 2026, Tasnim published three headlines simultaneously, signaling ongoing messaging tactics.

The second piece, Pahlavi or Khamenei: Iran is at a crossroads, argues that the West mistakes regime survival tactics for reform and that Iranians know better, having paid with their lives. It cites US Senator Marco Rubio’s testimony that there is no simple answer to what happens if the supreme leader and the regime fall, and warns that any transition brokered from inside the system would be another disaster for Iranians and for Israel. With negotiations ongoing, the article contends that any agreement could bolster so-called reformers, even as the Islamic Republic has killed tens of thousands of its own citizens. In the current uprising, it says more than 36,500 people have been killed, marking the deadliest mass repression of the 21st century, with Internet access restricted and only a fraction of Iranians able to circumvent censorship. The author, writing from London, describes messages from supporters inside Iran sent via Instagram about arrests and deaths, illustrating a climate of repression.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), Israel moves to reopen West Bank land registration amid annexation talks. The government announced the plan, with Justice Minister Yariv Levin, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and Defense Minister Israel Katz issuing a joint statement. The proposal envisions registering extensive areas in the West Bank in the state’s name and authorizing the Justice Ministry’s Authority for Registration and Settlement of Land Rights to oversee settlements, with a dedicated budget for this purpose. The plan aims to enable a transparent and in-depth clarification of rights, to end legal disputes, and to facilitate infrastructure development and market land. The statement says the move is in response to illegal settlement procedures promoted by the Palestinian Authority in Area C and is described as an essential security and governance measure to ensure control, enforcement, and full freedom of action for the state.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, an 88-year-old Holocaust survivor was attacked in broad daylight in Ramat Gan. The woman, identified as Bella, was assaulted on Ben-Gurion Street by a 36-year-old resident who shouted insults and punched her, leaving her with serious facial injuries. She was evacuated by Magen David Adom to Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, where she received treatment and remained under observation for several hours. Bella said she could have been killed, describing how the attacker closed in rapidly and shouted antisemitic slurs, leaving her shaken and recalling trauma from the past.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, the High Court of Justice has ordered Justice Minister Yariv Levin to explain why he has not convened the Judicial Selection Committee to begin judicial appointments, saying the absence of a full committee leaves courts understaffed and the public’s access to justice at risk. The court gave Levin a sworn affidavit by March 8 and gave the Attorney-General and petitioners until March 15 to file arguments, with a late-March hearing anticipated. The petitioners, including the Movement for Quality Government in Israel, say the judiciary has been paralyzed for more than a year and a half. Separately, after rioting in Bnei Brak, Shas head Aryeh Deri urged law enforcement to act decisively against those involved in violence but to avoid collective punishment of the general public, which largely abides by the law. In a separate development, Netanyahu trial hearings scheduled for this week were canceled following the death of the presiding judge’s mother, with the courts announcing bereavement leave through Sunday. Judge Oded Shaham sits on the panel with Rivka Friedman-Feldman and Moshe Bar-Am, and the case spans the three indictments known as Cases 1000, 2000, and 4000, with Netanyahu denying any wrongdoing.

In Uplifting News, a machzor handwritten in 1272 in Würzburg, Germany, has endured through centuries of hardship to reach Israel and now sits on display at the National Library in Jerusalem. The story traces the journey of the early Jewish community in Würzburg, which began toward the end of the 11th century, and follows the scribe Simhah ben Yehuda, whose meticulously copied prayers took nearly a year to produce. The text was beautifully illuminated by Shemiah Hazorfati, and the machzor’s survival and migration reflect the enduring value placed on sacred manuscripts as they traveled toward the nation of Israel.

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

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-886455
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-886493
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-886690
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-886688
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886691
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285156
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886686
https://www.jpost.com/history/article-886473

HEADLINES
Rubio warns Iran transition could be disaster
West Bank land registration reopened since 1967
Holocaust survivor attacked on Ben Gurion Street

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Senator Marco Rubio testified before the Senate that there is no simple answer to what happens in Iran if the supreme leader and the regime fall, warning that any transition brokered from within would be a disaster for Iranians and for Israel. With negotiations ongoing, any agreement could give new life to so-called reformers. The Islamic Republic has killed tens of thousands of its own citizens; in the current uprising alone, more than 36,500 people have died, making it the deadliest mass repression of the 21st century. Internet access has been systematically restricted, leaving only a fraction of Iranians able to bypass censorship. Reports from London describe messages from followers inside Iran about arrests and killings and concerns shared with opposition channels.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), the government on Sunday approved the proposal to reopen land registration in the West Bank for the first time since 1967, announced by Justice Minister Yariv Levin, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and Defense Minister Israel Katz in a joint statement. The plan would have the Justice Ministry's Authority for Registration and Settlement of Land Rights oversee settlements and receive a dedicated budget, enabling a transparent and in-depth clarification of rights to end legal disputes and facilitate infrastructure and market land development. The statement says the decision is an appropriate response to illegal settlement procedures that the Palestinian Authority is promoting in Area C, in violation of the law and agreements, and describes the renewal of land settlement in Judea and Samaria as an essential security and governance measure to ensure control, enforcement, and full freedom of action for the state.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, an 88-year-old Holocaust survivor from Ramat Gan was attacked in broad daylight on Ben-Gurion Street on Saturday morning. The woman, identified as Bella, said a 36-year-old resident charged toward her shouting insults and punched her, sending her to hospital with serious facial injuries. She was evacuated by Magen David Adom to Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, where she received treatment for facial and eye injuries and remained under observation for several hours. She told Walla that the attacker could have murdered her and recalled trauma from the Holocaust, noting that this was a serious assault that left her shaken.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, the High Court of Justice ordered Justice Minister Yariv Levin to explain why he has not convened the Judicial Selection Committee to begin judicial appointments. The court issued a conditional order requiring Levin to state under oath why he has not used his authority to bring the committee together to vote on judicial nominations to fill missing judge posts in all jurisdictions of the judicial branch. Levin must file a sworn affidavit by March 8, with the Attorney-General and petitioners having until March 15 to file principal arguments; a hearing on the conditional order is expected in late March. Petitioners say the judicial system has been paralyzed for more than a year and a half, leaving dozens of judge positions unfilled. Separately, a Hebrew-language item notes a tweet by Naftali Bennett in response to events in Bnei Brak.

In Israeli Economy and Business, Forbes India reports that India has approved an $8.6 billion defense deal with Israel for advanced missile and precision-strike systems, making Israel its second-largest arms supplier after France in 2026. The article repeats the figure, underscoring the significance of the agreement for defense ties between the two countries.

In Uplifting News, a machzor handwritten in 1272 in Wurzburg, Germany, has survived the Holocaust and is now displayed in the National Library in Jerusalem. The volume was copied by the scribe Simhah ben Yehuda over roughly a year and traveled with Jewish communities that settled synagogues, schools, and mikvehs in the 11th century. The machzor’s journey to Israel stands as a testament to the resilience of religious objects cherished by communities. In Tel Aviv, Tsuki Garbian presents A Very Still Life, a solo exhibition at Rothschild Fine Art that traces the discipline of painting and a negotiation between the weight of Old Masters and the urgency of the present. Garbian emphasizes daily studio work and the pursuit of knowledge after studying at Hamidrasha and in master classes with artists David Nipo and Aram Gershuni.

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

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-886493
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-886690
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-886688
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886691
https://t.me/newssil/191500
https://t.me/JewishNews24/49554
https://www.jpost.com/history/article-886473
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-886477

HEADLINES
Israel braces for dual Iran proxy war
Gaza Ramadan aid 700 trucks daily
Sofer warns Haredi draft could topple Right

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Israel is monitoring Iran’s aggressive involvement with its proxies, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen, as part of Tehran’s current strategy. Iran’s funding sustains these groups, the central proxies Tehran relies on to project power beyond its borders. The air force says it must be ready to operate on two fronts that remain open while Iran itself remains a central arena. The service has been deeply engaged for more than a month, with the air force commander Major General Tomer Bar shifting focus from planned trips to potential targets inside Iran. The force is operating around the clock to defend against Iran’s ballistic missiles—estimated at about 1,800—as it also builds capacity for offensive options.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), Israel has approved the entry of hundreds of trucks carrying sweets, soft drinks, and energy drinks into the Gaza Strip in the run-up to Ramadan, at the request of US officials. Four months after a ceasefire, Israel continues to allow roughly 700 humanitarian trucks daily into Gaza with food, shelter supplies, and medical equipment, with public figures noting a daily range of 600 to 800 trucks since the ceasefire began. The approval ties to Ramadan and the transfer of sweets, soda, and energy drinks, with traders signaling demand for premium items such as energy drinks and chocolate brands, while bread and flour remain essential.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, Aliyah and Integration Minister Ofir Sofer warned that the passage of the proposed haredi draft law would lead to the collapse of the Right in the upcoming elections, a warning he voiced in December at a closed-door meeting and later released publicly. He said that advancing the law would carry an electoral price and criticized the leading rabbis who advise the haredi parties, urging a broader discussion about enlistment and Torah study. Elections are expected no later than October. Also in this arena, Kibbutz Nir Oz condemned attempts by elements of the government to remove the word “massacre” from the October 7 remembrance bill, saying the move erases the memory of the massacre in which 65 residents were killed and 83 were taken hostage. The community urged recognition of the massacre, investigations, rebuilding, and guarantees of security and housing for those who cannot return. In a separate turn, a veteran Likud figure, former ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan, suggested he might return to challenge the party’s leadership and criticized Defense Minister Israel Katz, arguing that political considerations are behind the stalled appointment to head the Israel Aerospace Industries.

In Uplifting News, the persimmon is highlighted as a nutrient-rich fruit that deserves renewed attention this winter. Packed with antioxidants, it supports vision and immune health, offers benefits for heart health, and delivers meaningful fiber. It’s time to rediscover this fruit and enjoy its distinct place on 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.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285092
https://t.me/JewishNews24/49551
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-886676
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-886684
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-886671
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285090
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285098

HEADLINES
Israel to join Gaza governance board meeting
Brooklyn Navy Yard ends Israel ties lease
Nir Oz residents demand massacre term kept

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

In US Policy Concerning Israel, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar will represent Israel at the first Board of Peace meeting in Washington, a body established under the Gaza plan floated during the Trump era to supervise Gaza’s temporary governance. Under Trump’s Gaza plan, the board was meant to supervise Gaza’s temporary governance.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, the Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corp. will not renew its lease with NYC manufacturer Easy Aerial, a company that supplies drones to Israel. The move follows pressure over alleged Israel ties, with critics calling it taxpayer-funded antisemitism; US Representative Elise Stefanik urged stronger condemnation, saying on X that “We need more voices strongly condemning this taxpayer-funded antisemitism from the NYC Mayor’s office.” The decision was made in January 2026 and was formalized at a recent board meeting, with the Brooklyn Navy Yard saying the renewal was declined for business reasons related to operational and campus compliance matters.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, Nir Oz residents slammed the Prime Minister’s Office for seeking to remove the word “massacre” from the October 7 remembrance bill, arguing that every person, every family, every home, and every path bore witness to the massacre; the community notes 65 residents were murdered and 83 were taken hostage, including four who escaped and three who were killed en route to the Gaza Strip, and it calls on the government to recognize the massacre and support rebuilding and security for Nir Oz. A former senior Likud member, Gilad Erdan, attacked Israel Katz over the delay in appointing him as chair of Israel Aerospace Industries, describing the decision as a petty consideration that jeopardizes national security. The judiciary reported that four hearings scheduled for this week in the Netanyahu trial were canceled due to the death of the mother of the presiding judge, with the trial set to resume next week and Netanyahu expected to testify again as part of the ongoing cases, including Case 4000 and the planned cross-examination in Case 2000. On a radio program, Barak Sari discussed the prominent pardon controversy surrounding President Herzog and the involvement of Trump, suggesting the dispute may be resolved in a few weeks as part of the ongoing political dynamic.

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

SOURCES
https://worldisraelnews.com/fm-gideon-saar-to-represent-israel-at-first-board-of-peace-meeting-in-washington/
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-886657
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-886671
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285051
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285050
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285047

HEADLINES
Israel strikes Hezbollah assets US countermove underway
Netanyahu pardon request sparks Trump involvement uproar
Leumi buys 17% Avnei Dereh 80m

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, the Israeli Defense Forces said it struck Hezbollah weapons storage facilities and rocket launchers along the border, part of Israel’s ongoing effort to prevent Hezbollah from rebuilding its military capabilities near the border. At the same time, the United States is reportedly preparing for a weeks-long campaign against Iran, signaling readiness for a prolonged confrontation despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, the military secretary to Prime Minister Netanyahu and the head-designate of the Mossad, Roman Gopman, gave testimony this morning to Lahav 433 in the Night Meeting case. President Isaac Herzog expressed complete shock over Netanyahu’s pardon request and the involvement of Trump in the matter, as discussed by morning radio hosts. Reporting on the week’s developments also noted questions raised by commentators about Netanyahu not bringing top security officials on a flight amid the unfolding controversy.

In Israeli Economy and Business, market observers offer a cautious optimism: the housing of private consumption is supported by upbeat consumer sentiment, and foreign trade data points to continued expansion through late 2025 and into early 2026; an analyst also forecasts that tax revenues may surprise on the upside this year. Bank Leumi’s private equity arm, Leumi Partners, signed an agreement to acquire 17% of the developer Avnei Dereh for about 80 million shekels, valuing the company at roughly 460 million shekels post-money. The investment aims to broaden Avnei Dereh’s residential activity and accelerate growth, with Avnei Dereh having thousands of housing units at various planning and development stages.

In Uplifting News, a review of The Morning the Apples Began to Sing highlights its message of wonder and self-expression, encouraging children to imagine, create, and embrace life’s hidden miracles. The author describes blending Jewish teachings, traditions and symbols with love and fantasy to ignite the hearts and imaginations of Jewish children. The first batch of migratory storks arrived in northern Israel’s Hula Valley, signaling the approach of spring.

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

SOURCES
https://worldisraelnews.com/idf-hits-hezbollah-weapons-storage-facilities-rocket-launchers/
https://worldisraelnews.com/us-preparing-for-weeks-long-campaign-against-iran-report/
https://t.me/newssil/191474
https://t.me/newssil/191473
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285026
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285031
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1285028
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-886391
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/68757

HEADLINES
- Ran Gvili laid to rest ends saga
- Public memory pressures justice after October 7
- Two Israeli children's books champion inclusion

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

In Israeli Domestic Politics, hostages, memory, and accountability linger as debates on peace and justice continue. Ran Gvili was laid to rest January 28 in Meitar after the IDF recovered his body, closing the 843-day saga of hostages taken to Gaza. A longtime member of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum in New York writes that the religious Jewish community must reckon with a silence about Israeli violence against Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. The Forum has kept a nonpartisan stance, with chants like "Bring Them Home" and "Seal the Deal," and argues that returning hostages alive depended on negotiation with Hamas, even as it did not publicly weigh in on Prime Minister Netanyahu, a ceasefire, or Gaza devastation. The piece notes a deliberate, measured approach to public messaging and diplomacy.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, the faces of hostages and victims persist: A call for justice after October 7. Even with the return of hostages, posters of hostages and victims remain everywhere, from Shoshke Engelmayer’s "daily postcard" images to the broad set of "Kidnapped" posters on bus shelters that note dates of return or murder. In Jerusalem, Hersh Goldberg-Polin—kidnapped from the Supernova music festival and killed after 11 months—surfaces repeatedly, with memorials and messages such as "Free Hersh." His father, Jon Polin, eulogized him, saying, "May his memory be a revolution," hoping Hersh’s suffering can help move people toward justice and accountability. The piece underscores the enduring public memory as Israel continues to confront unanswered questions and the need for justice after October 7.

In Uplifting News, the power of imagination and inclusion shines in children's literature. The Morning the Apples Began to Sing, by Chasya Leah Raher, is a story of wonder and self-expression that invites children to imagine, create, and embrace life’s hidden miracles. The book is dedicated to the Jewish children of the world and to every child, with love, and Raher emphasizes the impact of stories to fuse Jewish teachings, traditions, and symbols with love and fantasy to ignite the hearts of Jewish children.

In Uplifting News, Emily Saw a Door: Learning to create spaces for each other with creativity, acceptance. The book by Mel Rosenberg marks his entry into children’s literature via Penguin Random House after a long career spanning science and music. Rosenberg, who made aliyah from Canada in 1969, became a professor at Tel Aviv University and co-developed two-phase mouthwash technology marketed as Assuta in Israel and Dentyl pH in the United Kingdom. The Hebrew edition of Emily Saw a Door won several awards, including Israel’s Dvora Omer Prize for children’s and youth literature. Rosenberg’s journey also includes a return to jazz after decades away. The story encourages children to find the right place for themselves or to create it, fostering creativity and acceptance.

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

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-886361
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886529
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-886391
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-886491

HEADLINES
Iran leadership united paper tiger to US
AOC genocide claim triggers Israeli furor
ZIM sale to FIMI sparks veto talks

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Gav Assulin, a former Mossad official and a researcher at the Jerusalem Center for Foreign Affairs and Security, says there is no real split within the Iranian leadership. He argues the Iranians speak with many voices as a marketplace of competing signals—threats, missiles and bellicose declarations on one hand, and smiles and diplomacy on the other—a top‑down strategy intended to buy time and avoid direct confrontation. He stresses there is no meaningful difference between so‑called moderates and hardliners, as all are part of the same radical Shiite regime, and he warns they are ultimately a paper tiger incapable of standing up to the United States, certainly not to the United States and Israel together. Regarding Donald Trump, Assulin says the former president favors diplomacy, but if offered a weaker agreement than in 2018 he would resort to force.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a leading figure in the Democratic Party’s progressive wing, drew sharp criticism after telling the Munich Security Conference that US aid to Israel enables what she described as genocide by Israel. Ocasio-Cortez, who has served in Congress since 2019 and is known for left‑leaning positions and vocal criticism of Israel, is seen as influential among younger Americans but remains controversial in the policy arena. The remarks prompted strong responses from pro‑Israel voices; Tom Gross, a commentator on international affairs, condemned the remarks, saying that the perceived ignorance and insensitivity should disqualify her from any presidential run or other senior role.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, a media stir continues after a heated on‑air clash on Channel 14’s Patriots program between journalist Emichi Atali and Itamar Fleishman, with Fleishman later accusing Atali of threats during the live broadcast. The episode prompted comments from co‑hosts Gedion Oko and Atali on their 103FM show about the incident, including questions about Atali’s absence and how viewers are reacting. Separately, a security matter is in play under a gag order in a Krayot magistrate’s court case (68067/2026) involving an investigation by the unit for fighting crime; details are restricted and the publication of identifying information is prohibited until March 1, 2026. In another security incident, an attempt by a Shin Bet officer to break into the car of Minister Gila Gamliel and the subsequent theft of her partner’s vehicle drew a comment from her husband, Adv. Hovav Damri, who said he’s grateful it ended only this way. On the political front, Simcha Rothman has spoken out against what he views as American pressure over the issue of pardons.

In Israeli Economy and Business, Israel is weighing a potential block of the ZIM deal after a surprise sale. Transportation Minister Miri Regev has ordered an immediate review of the arrangement in which ZIM would sell its Israel‑based shipping lines to Israel’s FIMI Opportunity Funds and its international routes to Germany’s Hapag‑Lloyd. Regev instructed Transportation Ministry Director‑General Moshe Ben‑Zaken to assess implications and whether the state could intervene using its golden share veto power. The move follows concerns over ZIM’s strategic importance and reports of ties involving Qatar and Saudi Arabia, which have drawn scrutiny in Jerusalem. Officials from the Shipping and Ports Authority and the Transportation Ministry were reportedly surprised by the scope and structure of the transaction.

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

SOURCES
https://t.me/newssil/191457
https://t.me/newssil/191455
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284960
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284959
https://t.me/newssil/191456
https://t.me/newssil/191454
https://t.me/newssil/191439
https://www.israelhayom.com/2026/02/15/israel-weighs-blocking-zim-deal-after-surprise-sale/

HEADLINES
Israel debates dual airfields amid Iran talks
East Jerusalem weapons smuggling foiled drone intercepted
Gag order cloaks security probe details

The time is now 2:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, local authorities in the north are opposing a government move to advance a decision to establish two supplementary airfields, one in the Negev and one in the north at Ramat David. The protests are led by regional councils including Emek Yizrael, Megiddo, Kiryat Tivon and Ramat Yishai, together with a residents’ committee who say the airfield should be built only in the Negev. A parallel framing of the week highlights the government’s consideration of two airfields in parallel as part of a broader security posture while diplomacy with Iran moves forward. At the same time, the United States appears to be intensifying its focus on Tehran as a second round of talks in Geneva looms, with Iran expected to present concessions; and Israel’s defense establishment is examining a wide range of scenarios, preparing both defensive and offensive options in case the regional posture shifts.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), a 36-year-old man from Sur Bahir was arrested by police after being caught smuggling a weapon into East Jerusalem; detectives, Border Police, and patrol officers located a loaded Carlo submachine gun in a vehicle, with prior intelligence indicating an attempt to smuggle weapons into East Jerusalem from the West Bank just days before Ramadan. The Israeli defense establishment also reported that IDF observation troops and the Aerial Control Center intercepted a drone attempting to smuggle three M-16 rifles into Israel on Friday; the drone entered from the west and the weapons were recovered and handed to security forces. Separately, the security apparatus is tightening Ramadan preparations, increasing West Bank security and tightening crossings; Ramadan begins this week, and a unique exercise will be conducted in the northern West Bank aboard the Eitan, an APC capable of carrying 12 soldiers and reaching about 90 km/h.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, a gag order was approved by the Krayot Magistrates’ Court in a security investigation conducted by the Northern District’s anti-crime unit, prohibiting publication of any detail of the investigation and any detail that could identify suspects, with the order in effect through March 1, 2026. A separate review of social media activity by Scooper found no abnormal bot activity among ministers’ follower counts, with Benjamin Netanyahu leading the list with 147 new followers, followed by Bezalel Smotrich with 125 and Ran Eshel with 114, then Itamar Ben-Gvir with 69, Amichai Ohana with 45, Eli Cohen with 39, Yair Lapid with 39, Avigdor Liberman with 38, Gideon Saar with 31 and Tzvi Sukkot with 28; other ministers were not on the top list. A companion report noted no unusual activity in the broader ministerial ranks, with the leaders’ positions reflecting routine engagement rather than automated amplification. In the midst of ongoing political volatility, Netanyahu received a piece of good news this week as tensions between the Haredim and the coalition are expected to ease; the release of a detainee who had been prevented from placing tefillin in military prison renewed discussions about pushing for a conscription law alongside the budget, signaling potential alignment on domestic legislative priorities.

In uplifting news, Efrat’s new mechitza pool tests the balance between halacha and family life. The eight-lane pool features a middle mechitza that can open and close, allowing men and women to swim separately while preserving shared use for families. The project, inspired by the vision of founding rabbi Shlomo Riskin, reflects a community approach that integrates religious practice with modern recreation, offering a model not previously seen in this context.

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

SOURCES
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284910
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284908
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284901
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284898
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-886648
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/b1ktjradbx
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284907
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284904
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284903
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284899
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-886349

HEADLINES
Israel braces as Iran tensions escalate
Judea and Samaria land rights formalization underway
ZIM sold to Hapag-Lloyd for 3.7B

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

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, security officials say Israel’s defense posture is being sharpened as Tehran and its regional allies remain a central source of tension. The IDF is planning for a range of scenarios, with options for both defensive and offensive actions if needed, and ongoing readiness across multiple tracks. In Washington, officials have signaled a firmer stance, with warnings that antisemitism has moved into the mainstream and a clear message that any action would not be a one-off strike. In Geneva, a new round of talks between the United States and Iran is set to open on Tuesday, while Tehran insists it will not concede on any assets as the United States continues to bolster its forces.

In the Disputed Territories (Gaza, Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem), authorities report a pair of security-related incidents and a major policy move. Police arrested a 36-year-old man from Sur Bahir on Saturday after he was caught smuggling a weapon into East Jerusalem; detectives and Border Police recovered a loaded Carlo submachine gun in a vehicle, following intelligence that a Ramadan-era smuggling plan was underway. IDF observation troops and the Aerial Control Center intercepted a drone entering Israeli territory from the west on Friday, found to be carrying three M-16 rifles, with the weapons handed to security forces. The government is expected to decide in its weekly cabinet meeting to begin formalizing land ownership and use in Judea and Samaria, a step not taken since 1967. Doctors Without Borders says armed groups have operated inside a Gaza hospital, with movements of weapons and incidents of intimidation and patient arrests, prompting MSF to suspend noncritical operations and calling on all armed groups and Israeli forces to respect medical facilities. A KAN News report notes that Hamas disarmament could begin as early as March 2026 once a technocratic government takes over Gaza; Israel has begun building bases in Gaza and arming anti-Hamas militias, with Ghassan Duhine, head of the Abu Shabab militia, indicating his forces operate within Hamas tunnels in Rafah.

In the US Policy Concerning Israel, details emerged about the Netanyahu-Trump meeting after the White House; Netanyahu returns with only partial influence, while Trump continues negotiations and a forthcoming peace council is being planned to set the rules for Gaza.

In the Israeli Domestic Politics, the coalition faces continued pressure from the ultra-Orthodox parties as they tie consent to a conscription-related reform to the budget timetable, a stance that keeps Netanyahu in a precarious position. President Isaac Herzog is reportedly furious over public criticism by President Trump over Netanyahu’s pardon and has asked for clarity on whether the prime minister coordinated with Trump. Minister Regev commented that the prime minister is not responsible for what Trump says, arguing that Trump says what he thinks and that Herzog needed to intervene to pursue a pardon. Gad Aaron (Gideon) Saar is touted as replacing Netanyahu at a forthcoming political summit for three reasons, a move that analysts say would shift the dynamics of the leadership. Taken together, these developments place Netanyahu’s government in a position not seen before.

In the Israeli Economy and Business, the Israeli shipping line ZIM is being sold to the German shipping giant Hapag-Lloyd and the Israeli investment fund Fimi for about $3.7 billion.

In the Uplifting News, a boat carrying six people, including four children, capsized off Santa Cruz, California; divers and surfers rushed to assist, and 14-year-old Ian Anderson helped save a child. All six aboard survived.

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-886648
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284898
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284896
https://worldisraelnews.com/israels-president-lashes-out-at-netanyahu-over-trumps-pardon-demand-report/
https://t.me/newssil/191425
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284895
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-886635
https://t.me/newssil/191424
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284894
https://t.me/newssil/191423
https://t.me/newssil/191422
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284892
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284891
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1284890
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-886647