Episodes

  • Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 10:08

    Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 10:08
    Jan 19 2026
    HEADLINESPutin Invited to Gaza Peace BoardIsrael Debates Politicized Oct seven CommissionIran Protests Wane After Weeks of CrackdownThe time is now 5:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.The following is your hour-by-hour briefing, prepared for an international audience with careful balance toward Israel’s security concerns and American policy stances, along with broader regional context.In Washington, new details emerged about the Gaza peace framework being shaped around President Trump’s administration. The Kremlin said on Monday that President Vladimir Putin has been invited to join what Moscow calls Trump’s “Board of Peace” for Gaza, and that Moscow is studying the proposal with the aim of possible contact with Washington. The report also noted that Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was reportedly invited to join the board, though the White House did not publicly confirm individual members. Kazakh officials described their president as accepting the invitation and expressing a desire to contribute to a lasting peace in the Middle East and to regional stability. The White House has framed the Board of Peace as part of a broader set of mechanisms and advisers accompanying a US-backed Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict, including a Gaza executive board and other senior advisers. The plan has been in discussion since late 2025, with UN endorsement accompanying the pathway toward a phased sequence of governance, reconstruction, and security arrangements. Israel’s leadership has watched these developments closely, balancing support for a credible international framework with concerns about who will govern Gaza, how disarmament would be verified, and what role external powers would play alongside or in opposition to Israeli security priorities. Turkish participation has become a particularly sensitive issue in Israeli briefings, given long-standing Turkish disputes with Israel over Gaza governance, and Israeli officials have warned that any arrangement perceived as sidelining Jerusalem from strategic decisions could complicate security calculations, especially around Hamas disarmament and hostage issues such as Ran Gvili’s status.On the domestic front in Israel, bereaved families and opposition lawmakers gathered in the Knesset for a debate on a government bill to create a politically appointed commission to investigate the October 7 attacks. Bereaved families and relatives of hostages attended a panel protesting the push for a less independent investigative structure. The bill, introduced by Likud MK Ariel Kallner, would set up a six-member investigative panel selected through a Knesset process, with a potential supermajority requirement and a mechanism for appointing opposition members if consensus cannot be reached. Critics say the bill would represent a departure from the traditional state commission model, which is staffed by the Supreme Court’s chief justice and designed to operate outside political influence. Prime Minister Netanyahu has faced intensified scrutiny over accountability for the attack, and the debate has deepened a broader rift between the government and the judiciary. The discussion comes amid a high-stakes political environment as Israel continues its campaign against Hamas in Gaza and weighs security and governance questions in parallel with domestic political pressures.Turning to the wider regional picture, Iran’s latest wave of protests appears to be winding down after weeks of widespread demonstrations against the regime. Estimates from human rights groups and activists note thousands of deaths and tens of thousands of arrests in a crackdown that has drawn international concern. Iran’s internet access has been severely restricted for days, with authorities gradually moving to limit external communication while maintaining some internal connectivity, a development described as an effective information firewall as Nowruz approaches. Observers point to enduring economic strains, environmental and energy challenges, and persistent popular discontent among a young demographic that participated heavily in the latest demonstrations. Some Iranian opposition voices have urged renewed pressure on Tehran’s leadership, while external actors face questions about what form of support—if any—could meaningfully influence change inside Iran. Among Iranians abroad, demonstrations in American cities have reflected sympathy with protesters while raising debates about external involvement, sanctions, and the contours of any future accord with Tehran.In Gaza and the West Bank, Israeli security forces continue targeted counter-terror operations aimed at dismantling infrastructure used by militants. A multi-day operation was announced in Hebron’s Jabal Johar neighborhood to disrupt terror networks, seize weapons, and bolster civilian security in the area. The operations reflect ongoing efforts to limit ...
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    8 mins
  • Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 09:11

    Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 09:11
    Jan 19 2026
    HEADLINESGaza governance board expands; Israel voices alarmKnesset pushes Oct 7 inquiry billNew F-35I jets bolster Israel deterrenceThe time is now 4:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.Today’s hourlies focus on developments shaping the Middle East’s security architecture, alongside domestic political and economic dynamics in Israel, with careful attention to how US policy and regional actors interact with Israeli and Jewish perspectives for an international audience.Kazakhstan’s president to join Trump’s Gaza peace initiativeKazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev will join the US-led Gaza governance effort, joining a Board of Peace proposed by President Donald Trump. Kazakhstan’s spokesman cited that Tokayev was among the first world leaders invited and that he confirmed Kazakhstan’s intention to contribute to lasting peace in the Middle East. The board would be chaired for life by Trump and would begin by addressing Gaza, with plans to expand to other conflicts as membership grows. Kazakhstan is described as a founding state in this arrangement. The White House has not publicly named Tokayev among confirmed members. The move underscores Washington’s push to broaden international participation in shaping post-conflict governance in Gaza, a process that Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and other regional actors are watching closely for their roles in any future arrangements.Gaza governance board draws Turkish and Qatari representation; Israeli concerns voicedTrump’s plan to establish a Gaza governance framework includes senior representatives from Turkey and Qatar on the Gaza Executive Board. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Qatar’s Ali al-Thawadi are among the named participants. Israeli officials have identified red lines around Turkish leadership roles and closer Turkish influence in Gaza, warning that such arrangements could affect Israel’s security calculus. In Jerusalem, Prime Minister Netanyahu and others said they were not consulted about the board’s final composition, stressing that Israel’s security needs and governance interests should be central in decisions about Gaza’s post-conflict administration. The broader concern is whether international governance could dilute Israel’s role in decisions over border security, disarmament, and oversight of reconstruction.If disarmament stalls, Israel could pursue its own disarmament strategyAnalysts tracking Trump’s Phase II framework warn that if Hamas refuses to disarm and a peace-enforcement mechanism does not materialize, Israel might be compelled to act independently to neutralize Hamas’s weapons and capabilities. Such a scenario could involve mobilizing reserve formations and resuming operations in Gaza City and adjacent areas. Observers note that the plan’s credibility rests on the international community’s ability to provide an effective security presence in Gaza to deter resurgent arms proliferation, a point of contention among Israeli officials who worry about the ability of outside forces to enforce disarmament and stabilize a long-term ceasefire.Israel’s domestic debate over Oct. 7 inquiry advances; bereaved families protestIn Jerusalem, a Knesset panel advanced a political inquiry bill that would create a separate, Knesset-led process to investigate the October 7 attacks, diverging from the traditional state commission model. Bereaved families and opponents of the government’s approach demonstrated outside the Knesset, arguing for a state commission with independent judicial oversight. The bill would require a supermajority to appoint members and, if consensus cannot be reached, would allow the coalition and opposition to propose three members each, with the Speaker of the Knesset making final appointments for the contested seats. Netanyahu’s government contends the inquiry should be structured differently from the past, while opposition leaders warn that the bill could become a vehicle for political whitewashing. The debate reflects a deep, enduring tension in Israeli governance over accountability and accountability mechanisms in the wake of the war.Netanyahu pushes back on Gaza board composition; consultations with foreign ministerFollowing the board’s disclosure, Netanyahu publicly criticized the lack of coordination with Israel and instructed Foreign Minister Israel Sa’ar to raise the issue with the US secretary of state. The prime minister summoned meetings with the security cabinet, the full government, and coalition chairs to align Israel’s position with its security requirements. The issue highlights the persistent friction between Washington’s multi-party approach to Gaza’s future governance and Israel’s insistence on safeguarding its core security interests, including ensuring an autonomous and credible mechanism for disarmament oversight and the protection of Israeli security gains.Gaza’s reality on the ground: Hamas’s ...
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    9 mins
  • Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 08:05

    Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 08:05
    Jan 19 2026
    HEADLINESIDF launches Hebron counterterrorism operationProteus unmanned helicopter tests with Royal NavyUS mediates Gaza talks toward multilateral frameworkThe time is now 3:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.This hour in the Middle East, security concerns, diplomacy, and human stories intersect as Israel faces ongoing threats and a shifting regional security environment tests international efforts to stabilize Gaza and the broader conflict.In London and defense circles, a new chapter in unmanned aviation for maritime operations has begun to take shape. The Royal Navy conducted the first flight of Proteus, a full-size autonomous helicopter developed by Leonardo, aimed at exploring how uncrewed aircraft might support future naval missions including anti-submarine warfare. Proteus, named for the sea god, functioned without a human pilot in the cockpit and carried sensors and computer systems capable of real time environment assessment and decision making. The program emphasizes modular payloads and the possibility of exchanging fuel for mission equipment, offering commanders flexibility in the field. Leonardo has also built a digital twin of the platform to test capabilities through simulations. The Royal Navy says Proteus is a one-off demonstrator intended for trials and experimentation, part of a broader plan to build a “hybrid navy” where uncrewed systems augment crewed platforms, and potentially anchor future anti-submarine operations as part of the Atlantic Bastion initiative to secure the North Atlantic.In the West Bank, the Israel Defense Forces launched a large-scale counterterrorism operation in the Hebron district, focusing on the Jabal Johar neighborhood. The Judea Brigade said the operation seeks to dismantle terrorist infrastructure, remove illegal weapons, and strengthen security in the area. The operation is expected to continue for several days, with residents possibly hearing explosions and seeing increased security activity as forces pursue suspected militants and weapons caches. The move comes amid ongoing concerns about security threats in the area and past incidents involving infiltrations or attacks attributed to extremist networks.Diplomatic and strategic discussions over Gaza continue, with American mediation described as seeking a multilateral framework. Reports describe two parallel tracks: one that envisions temporary administrative arrangements for Gaza under a Palestinian technocratic committee, and another that outlines short-term political and security arrangements to stabilize the enclave. Washington emphasizes the need for international coordination and security guarantees for Israel, while indicating that Israeli demands cannot be met in full without balancing security needs with humanitarian and governance considerations. While progress is welcomed, Israeli officials caution that any agreement must address core security concerns and the risk of renewed violence, and that a comprehensive, durable arrangement will require sustained diplomacy and credible enforcement mechanisms.Human dimensions of the conflict are underscored by testimonies from former hostages. Eitan Horn, who spent more than two years in captivity with Hamas, described the psychological strain of captivity and the way captors exploited family ties, including the release of his brother Iair, to heighten pressure. He recalled grueling tunnel conditions, limited food, and moments of levity that helped survival, as well as the ongoing impact of the ordeal on his recovery. His account, shared with a television network, highlighted the personal stakes for Israeli families and the broader public demand for accountability and the safe return of all hostages.Domestically in Israel, parliamentary discussion continues as the Constitution Committee moves a bill to establish a national commission of inquiry into the October seventh attacks. The measure, opposed by some factions, has drawn protests from bereaved families outside the Knesset who urge a formal state inquiry. The debate reflects broader tensions over accountability, security policy, and the political climate surrounding the war and its consequences.On the international stage, the political dialogue touching the Middle East remains active. Kazakhstan’s president has indicated he will join what has been described as a Board of Peace proposed by the United States. The board would initiate work by addressing Gaza and then expand to other conflicts, with permanent membership tied to a substantial financial contribution. The move signals a willingness by some states to participate in a multiparty framework aimed at stabilizing the region and reinforcing assurances for Israel’s security as diplomacy evolves.Taken together, these threads illustrate a period of rapid change in security technology, ground operations, and diplomatic initiatives related to Israel and the broader Gaza conflict. The ...
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    6 mins
  • Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 07:04

    Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 07:04
    Jan 19 2026
    HEADLINES- Iran cracks down as protests toll rises- IDF targets Hebron Jabal Johar militant hub- US VP pick questions spark antisemitism debateThe time is now 2:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.At two in the morning, the region remains tense as new developments underscore the fragility of stability and the enduring questions around security, leadership, and international response.In Iran, the leadership has publicly acknowledged what it calls a massive wave of protests and the accompanying toll, signaling a hardening stance as authorities promise severe punishment for detainees. The regime’s leadership places blame on foreign interference, while human rights groups estimate a much higher death toll and a broader crackdown that has chilled demonstrations and restricted communication networks. The international response so far has been cautious, with diplomatic statements and some condemnations but no decisive action that would alter the trajectory on the ground. The situation underlines the regime’s resolve to maintain control at home while navigating a volatile regional environment, where both diplomatic pressure and the risk of escalation influence calculations in capitals around the world.In the West Bank, the Israel Defense Forces launched a large-scale counterterrorism operation in the Hebron area, specifically the Jabal Johar neighborhood, with the aim of dismantling militant infrastructure, reducing illegal weapons possession, and strengthening security in the area. The operation, described by the IDF as part of ongoing efforts to thwart terrorism in the West Bank, is expected to extend over several days. Security forces have already been conducting searches, roadblocks, and air and drone activity, in coordination with police units and other security services. The enclosure of this action comes against a backdrop of recent infiltrations in nearby Lachish territory and ongoing concerns about the balance between security measures and the rights and daily lives of residents in surrounding communities. Observers will be watching for potential shifts in local security dynamics, civilian impact, and how long the operation persists.On the political front in the United States, reports about the vetting process for a potential vice-presidential selection touched off a broader conversation about Israel, security, and antisemitism. A memoir excerpt describes questions about Israel posed to a Jewish potential running mate, with one official reportedly remarking that such questions were necessary to some degree. The episode has drawn commentary about antisemitism in political discourse and the way Israel-related topics are weighed in high-stakes decision making. While the White House and party officials have stressed continued support for Israel and a two-state framework in public statements, the episode illustrates how domestic politics and concerns about antisemitism can intersect with foreign policy considerations and the perception of American political leaders’ commitment to security ties with Israel.Amid these developments, a broader context worth noting is the ongoing resilience of Israel’s security and innovation ecosystems, including a recent emphasis on integrating uncrewed systems into defense planning as part of broader modernization efforts. While the focus of that program is not in the immediate theater of operations, the underlying theme—reassessing risk, expanding reach, and leveraging technology for protection—continues to influence both military posture and regional deterrence.Looking ahead, the coming hours and days are likely to yield updates on the Hebron operation’s progress and any shifts in security arrangements in the West Bank, potential reactions from regional actors, and the international community’s stance toward the Iranian crackdown and its broader regional implications. observers will also monitor how US political discourse around Israel and antisemitism shapes public diplomacy and policy signals in Washington, as well as the ongoing conversations about security assistance, intelligence cooperation, and regional stabilization efforts that are central to Israel’s strategic considerations. The overarching pattern remains one of vigilance: a region where security threats, political pressures, and the pursuit of stability converge in a high-stakes environment that demands careful, steady reporting and measured analysis.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.SOURCEShttps://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-883792https://www.jpost.com/international/article-883791https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/tech-and-start-ups/article-883499https://...
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    5 mins
  • Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 06:07

    Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 06:07
    Jan 19 2026
    HEADLINESHebron raid dismantles terror networksIran crackdown leaves thousands deadCordoba high speed crash leaves 21 deadThe time is now 1:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.Good evening. Here is the hourly update on the international and regional events shaping security and policy in the Middle East and beyond.In the West Bank city of Hebron, Israeli forces led a wide-ranging counterterrorism operation in the Jabal Johar neighborhood. The operation, headed by the Judea Brigade with participation from the IDF, Shin Bet, police and border police, aims to dismantle terror infrastructure, remove illicit weapons and bolster security in the area. The authorities say the operation will stretch over several days, with explosions and a noticeable military presence anticipated in the coming hours and days. Security officials emphasize a proactive approach to disrupt threats across Judea and Samaria, a staging ground for ongoing concerns about militant activity in the region.Across the Atlantic, the United States appears to be strengthening its posture in the Middle East as part of broader preparations in the event of heightened tensions with Iran. Washington is increasing its regional footprint, and Israeli officials say they are taking steps to ensure both defensive readiness and potential offensive options remain available. The balance of defense and deterrence remains a central feature of regional security planning as discussions continue about possible escalation elsewhere in the region.In Tehran, Iran’s supreme leader acknowledged that several thousand deaths occurred during the current wave of nationwide protests, asserting blame on foreign actors, including the United States and Israel, for the unrest. The Iranian government has framed the demonstrations as foreign-backed, while continuing to deploy security forces to quell dissent. Human rights groups have documented thousands killed and many more detained, though Iranian authorities contest those tallies. International reaction has included warnings and condemnations, but action remains limited as global attention remains divided and governments weigh strategic interests against pushing for rapid change inside Iran.Turning to Europe, the European Union is scrambling to avert US tariffs tied to a dispute over Greenland and is preparing retaliation should duties be imposed. EU ambassadors reached a broad agreement to intensify diplomacy aimed at dissuading President Trump from moving forward with tariffs on European goods, while also planning potential countermeasures. One scenario under discussion in Brussels would impose a sizeable tariff package on United States imports, while another option, the so-called Anti-Coercion Instrument, would affect access to public tenders, investment, banking and services in a bid to rebalance leverage. EU leaders are convening in coming days to assess options, and member states stress the importance of protecting sovereignty and maintaining open channels for dialogue with Washington. The kerfuffle over Greenland has already unsettled markets and raised questions about transatlantic economic cooperation, with several European capitals insisting that economic ties be safeguarded even as questions of sovereignty and security remain front and center.In southern Spain, a high-speed train collision near Cordoba has left at least 21 people dead and around 100 injured, with authorities noting that one derailed train struck another, sending carriages off their tracks and down an embankment. The precise cause remains under investigation, though officials say the incident is extraordinary given the straight stretch of track involved. Emergency responders have transported dozens of wounded to hospitals, and the national transportation ministry is reviewing safety protocols and maintenance records as investigators begin reviewing the incident's sequence of events.In Australia, Parliament returned to business with a moment of silence and tributes for the victims of the Bondi Beach Hanukkah attack, in which two gunmen killed 15 people at a Jewish event. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged reform in both gun control and hate speech legislation, while signaling that measures addressing hate crime would proceed as a separate, focused package due to opposition concerns about combining them with other reforms. Families of the victims watched from the public galleries as lawmakers honored the deceased and prepared to debate policy changes aimed at preventing a repeat of such violence. The incident has deepened a national conversation about antisemitism and public safety in Australia.Meanwhile, an Israeli Defense Forces and security services update advised that the Hebron operation will proceed with a focus on disrupting terror networks and removing weapons, with continued coordination among security agencies to counter threats across Yehuda and Shomron. In parallel, Prime Minister ...
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    8 mins
  • Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 05:07

    Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 05:07
    Jan 19 2026
    HEADLINESIran protests escalate as regime blames WestIDF launches Hebron counterterrorism sweepKarachi shopping complex blaze leaves dozens missingThe time is now 12:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.Good evening. Here is your hourly update on the Middle East, the broader world, and the latest developments affecting security, politics, and diplomacy.Across Iran, the leadership has acknowledged the latest wave of nationwide protests has produced a large death toll, with Ayatollah Ali Khamenei saying that several thousand lives were lost and blaming the United States and Israel for the bloodshed. Iranian authorities describe the demonstrations as driven by foreign interference, while authorities warn detainees will face severe punishment. Human rights groups, however, have tallied much higher figures, with thousands killed and tens of thousands detained since protests began late last year. The regime’s approach has again combined domestic repression with asserts that foreign meddling is the root of the crisis, a line that has long served Tehran as it seeks to maintain control while seeking to deflect international criticism. In recent weeks, Iranians have turned to messages and signs directed at overseas powers, including the United States and Israel, calling for help and attention to the plight of protesters. The international response has been steady but constrained, with the United Nations issuing statements and procedural steps but no binding action to compel accountability or sanctions. Observers note that Tehran remains confident that pauses in global action can prolong the regime’s hold on power, even as the human costs mount and the international community debates how to respond effectively.In the West Bank city of Hebron, the Israel Defense Forces announced a wide-scale counter-terrorism operation aimed at thwarting infrastructure used by militants and removing illegal weapons possession. Officials say the operation could stretch across several days and is intended to bolster security in the area and prevent planned attacks. The move comes amid ongoing tensions and a broader campaign by Israeli security forces to disrupt networks tied to militant groups. In Jerusalem and other parts of the country, domestic politics continue to roil. A public clash at a cabinet meeting saw Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Minister Dudi Amsalem exchange sharp words over government affairs, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu interceding to call for restraint. The incident underscored strains within the coalition as members grapple with policy priorities and the broad responsibilities of governance during an era of heightened security concerns and ongoing conflict.On the legislative front, the government faces a practical dilemma over the 2026 state budget. If approval stalls in the Knesset, there is risk the budget could fail to pass by the deadlines needed for second and third readings, potentially triggering early elections. The political calculus is complicated by party alignments within the coalition and by disagreements over related arrangements laws. The budget question comes as ministers and ministries seek to maintain security and social programs during a time of regional volatility and ongoing security operations in the West Bank.Internationally, the United States is watching developments with particular sensitivity. In American cities, thousands of people gathered to support Iranian anti-government protesters, while urging Western leaders to take stronger action in defense of civil liberties. Demonstrators cited personal losses and the human toll of the crackdown, with some urging direct intervention, though policymakers have signaled a wary approach given the risks of escalation and broader regional instability. The diaspora’s demonstrations in cities such as Los Angeles and New York reflect ongoing concern about events inside Iran and across the region.Meanwhile, Washington’s engagement with other governments over a broader “Board of Peace” concept introduced by the United States has drawn cautious responses. The proposal envisions a permanent, executive-style body with a focus on Gaza initially, expanding to other conflicts as needed. Several European nations and others voiced concerns that the plan could duplicate or undermine United Nations roles and frame governance in fragile territories in ways that could politicize or overshadow existing international structures. Some governments indicated willingness to participate in discussions, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining UN-led processes and respecting established international norms. Israel’s government has said it has not coordinated the specifics of the board’s composition and cautioned that any arrangement should align with its security and governance principles, particularly regarding Gaza and regional stability. The United Nations has stressed that ...
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    9 mins
  • Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 04:06

    Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 04:06
    Jan 19 2026
    HEADLINESBondi Beach Shooting Kills FifteenKarachi Gul Plaza Fire Kills SixIsrael Ministers Clash Over State FirmsThe time is now 11:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.A massive fire swept through the Gul Plaza shopping center in Karachi, leaving at least six dead and more than 65 people unaccounted for as firefighters battled flames and thick smoke through the night. Authorities say the blaze began on the ground floor and rapidly spread to upper levels, with the building’s dense layout and the large number of resin-based goods contributing to the severity. Firefighters report that limited ventilation in a mall housing more than 1,200 shops slowed the rescue effort, and officials cautioned that parts of the structure could still collapse. Rescue teams continued sifting through debris as the fire was brought under control, with authorities noting that the operation could extend into the hours ahead.In Australia, the nation paused for a moment of reflection after a gun attack at a Hanukkah event on Bondi Beach left 15 people dead. Police say two gunmen opened fire in what has been described as the nation’s deadliest anti-Jewish violence in decades. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced measures to accelerate debates on gun control and reforms to hate speech laws, recalling parliament earlier than planned to address the crisis and support affected communities. Officials said the investigation would consider how to curb antisemitism and protect public gatherings, while acknowledging concerns about civil liberties in the reform process.Back in the Middle East, tensions inside Israel's government surfaced during a cabinet gathering, where a dispute between senior ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Dudi Amsalem escalated into public exchanges before Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged calm. The confrontation touched on governance of state companies and the tone of interministerial dialogue, underscoring ongoing strains within a coalition navigating security pressures, military actions, and domestic policy disagreements as the war with Hamas continues to shape political debates.Across the Atlantic, thousands protested in the United States to denounce the Iranian government’s crackdown on anti-government demonstrations. Demonstrators in major cities carried signs condemning what they called a mass crackdown, as rights groups documented mounting casualties in Iran. Organizers linked the protests to broader grievances over economic hardship and political repression, while diaspora communities highlighted solidarity with Iranians demanding political change. Washington’s stance toward Iran remains focused on a combination of sanctions, diplomacy, and regional security concerns, with policymakers closely watching the stance of Tehran’s leadership as protests press on.International diplomatic vistas also drew attention to a plan floated by former US president and current adviser discussions to create a “Board of Peace” intended to address Gaza and then other conflicts. Governments responded with caution, noting that the United Nations remains the international forum with the established mandate to manage peacekeeping and conflict resolution. Some European and regional partners raised questions about how a separate board would interact with UN processes, while Israel stressed that any arrangements in Gaza would require coordination with Israeli authorities. The plan has sparked debate over authority, legitimacy, and the risk of duplicating or diluting established international mechanisms.In parallel, developments in the Golan Heights signaled new strategic calculations. Talks between Israel and Syria are shaping possible changes on the ground, with discussions reportedly touching on the withdrawal from nine outposts, Hezbollah’s activities in Syria, and a halt to support for Druze communities. Analysts caution these discussions could alter the security landscape in the border region, where Israel seeks to maintain security assurances and regional stability amid evolving commitments and competing red lines.On the home front, the IDF announced the formation of a steering committee to review how fallen soldiers are commemorated and how legacy is preserved across units and camps. Led by a senior officer and including representatives from the Defense Ministry and bereaved families, the panel will examine how honor is attributed and how families participate in commemoration activities, with findings anticipated in the months ahead. This initiative comes amid broader conversations about veterans’ services, civilian sacrifices, and the presentation of national memory during a time of ongoing conflict.Separately, an Iranian diplomat previously based at the United Nations in Geneva is reported to have sought asylum in Switzerland, a development seen against the backdrop of ongoing protests inside Iran and a wave of international responses. Swiss ...
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    6 mins
  • Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 03:06

    Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-19 at 03:06
    Jan 19 2026
    HEADLINESIsraeli ministers clash over government companiesIDF reshapes fallen memorials with familiesIranian diplomat seeks asylum in SwitzerlandThe time is now 10:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.From Jerusalem, this is the hourly update on Israel and the region.In a highly unusual cabinet moment, tension spilled into the Prime Minister’s chamber as Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Economy Minister Dudi Amsalem clashed over government companies during a Sunday meeting. The exchange grew heated, with Smotrich asking, “Who are you anyway? Why are you interfering?” and Amsalem replying, “You’re not speaking politely, don’t call me chutzpan.” Smotrich pressed that Amsalem was “not collegial” and had come in “angry in the morning.” The quarrel drew in Economy Minister Nir Barkat, who defended Amsalem as “the most collegial minister.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intervened, ordering both ministers outside and urging restraint. “Leadership is restraint,” Netanyahu said. “If you are not leaders, go outside and continue arguing there. This has crossed every line. I will not accept two ministers speaking like this and shouting at each other.” The episode underscores ongoing strains within the governing coalition as it confronts policy choices and the management of government-related issues.Turning to defense and commemoration, the IDF announced the formation of a steering committee to review how fallen soldiers are commemorated and how their legacy is expressed within IDF units and camps. Led by Brigadier General (ret.) Ofir Levios, the committee includes professionals, unit commanders, Defense Ministry representatives, and bereaved-family representatives. The panel began work in December 2025 and is expected to present conclusions and recommendations in the coming months to the Head of the Manpower Directorate, the Deputy Director General, and the Head of the Families, Commemoration and Heritage Division at the Ministry of Defense. Final approval will rest with the Director General of the Ministry of Defense, the IDF Chief of Staff, and the Minister of Defense. The defense establishment has emphasized a direct partnership with bereaved families in planning and commemorative actions, including open days and content sharing. This effort comes as the IDF continues to formalize how memorial practices reflect the country’s experience in the Israel-Hamas war, including previously disclosed measures such as the annual death toll reporting. In 2025, the defense leadership noted the lowest annual death toll since 2023, a data point cited in discussions about memory, support for families, and the ongoing public calculus surrounding the war.In a separate development with international resonance, a senior Iranian diplomat who worked at the United Nations in Geneva has sought asylum in Switzerland for himself and his family. Alireza Jeyrani Hokmabad, who served as counsellor and minister plenipotentiary at Iran’s UN mission, left his post amid the unfolding domestic protests in Iran. Swiss authorities have not publicly commented on the asylum request. The case highlights the broader spillover of Iran’s internal turmoil, as protests continue to roil the country and as some Iranians have sought refuge across borders, including in neighboring Turkey. Reports note that the protests have drawn global attention and commentary, with occasional calls from international figures, including former US leaders, urging Iranians to sustain demonstrations while noting the associated risks for those who speak out. The situation remains fluid as officials weigh diplomatic and security considerations in a region already under significant strain.In the United States, attention is also drawn to a political gesture in American sports. Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair was fined $11,593 by the NFL for displaying the message “Stop the genocide” in eye black during last week’s playoff win over Pittsburgh. He was seen with the same message before the next playoff game, though it appeared to have been removed during the on-field broadcast. The NFL prohibits players from displaying personal messages on equipment or in-game attire, and Al-Shaair has been an outspoken advocate for pro-Palestinian causes, including charitable work connected to Gaza relief in the past. The incident underscores the broader national discussion about athletes’ political expression and the tension between personal conscience and league regulations amid a high-stakes, polarizing international conflict.And abroad, developments from Iran indicate that state television channels were hacked, with broadcasts carrying messages urging continued resistance and featuring statements attributed to opposition voices, alongside calls to the Iranian security forces not to turn their weapons on the people. The incident fits within a persistent pattern of domestic unrest ...
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    6 mins