HEADLINES
Iran regime change drive gains foreign backing
Turkey to join Hormuz demining after peace
Moroccan flag burning sparks antisemitism complaint

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 Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, an opinion piece argues that as large-scale US military action against Iran winds down, it is time for a second phase aimed at regime change in the Islamic Republic: removing the Ayatollahs and the Revolutionary Guards from power. The author contends that with backing from abroad this could be feasible, and that millions of Iranians want change. It notes that while neither President Trump nor Prime Minister Netanyahu has defined regime change as an official goal of the current military campaign, both leaders have encouraged Iranian protestors to take back their country. The piece argues that only regime change can truly neutralize the nuclear threat in the long term, and that the Iranian people themselves must overturn the regime. It also suggests that outside support could include an aggressive propaganda effort and training of opposition factions inside Iran to help an opposition movement emerge.

In Regional Impacts, Turkey could consider joining a Strait of Hormuz demining operation, with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan saying demining could follow a potential Iran-US peace agreement. A technical team from various countries would carry out mine-clearing work in the strait, and Turkey views such efforts positively in principle as a humanitarian duty. Turkey would have no problem participating under those conditions, but would reassess its position if any future technical coalition of countries became a party to renewed conflict. Fidan also said issues related to Iran's nuclear program could be resolved at the next round of talks in Pakistan.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Moroccan lawyer Faical Oumerzoug filed a complaint over an Israel flag burning in Rabat, saying protest videos showed hate speech, antisemitic slogans and incitement against Jews, and urging authorities to investigate alleged foreign links to Iran, Hezbollah and other groups.

In Israeli Economy and Business, Jerusalem’s business community describes a difficult climate, with tax-paying businesses facing ongoing pressures and calls for timely financial assistance to keep operations running. The city’s history of hardship, including resilience through the Second Intifada, is cited, along with ongoing concerns about periodic security threats and the need for relief to sustain activity.

In Uplifting News, a city back on its feet after a month of war: the 2026 Jerusalem Marathon experience unfolds with runners pushing through fatigue toward a final stretch near Sacher Park. The event, postponed earlier due to the Second Iran War, is marked by encouragement from volunteers and spectators as finish-line reunions with loved ones underscore a sense of perseverance and a look toward next year.

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-894098
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-893987
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-893985
https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/all-news/article-893981
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/04/turkey-may-consider-role-hormuz-demining-after-iran-us-deal-minister-says
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/sjvqak96zg