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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-04-18 at 15:03
HEADLINES
Iran demands Trump guarantees before nuclear deal talks
Israel prepares for Netanyahu’s pivotal security speech
US tightens university foreign funding amid Israel-Gaza conflict
The time is now 11:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At 11:00 AM, we bring you the latest developments in the ongoing multi-front conflict involving Israel, Iran, and various regional actors. Iran's leadership has made it clear that it will not sign any nuclear agreement—whether temporary or permanent—without guarantees that former US President Donald Trump will not abandon the deal again, as he did in 2018. Iranian officials have explicitly demanded watertight assurances that Trump’s administration would not renege, citing mistrust stemming from past actions.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue with talks scheduled in Rome this Saturday, following a positive first round in Oman last week. Iran’s stance remains firm: it is willing to accept some limits on uranium enrichment but insists on guarantees from the United States that no future administration will abandon the agreement. Tehran’s red lines are non-negotiable—disassembling centrifuges, halting enrichment, or reducing uranium stockpiles below the levels set in 2015 are off the table, as mandated by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Iran also refuses to discuss its missile program, viewing it as outside nuclear negotiations.
In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to deliver a special statement tonight, amid heightened tensions and ongoing military operations. Israeli officials and security sources have emphasized that the lack of a credible alternative government in Gaza sustains Hamas’s control, despite widespread destruction and suffering. The Israeli government is actively exploring measures to weaken Hamas’s grip, including efforts to take control of aid distribution and establish logistics hubs independent of Hamas.
In Gaza, public sentiment remains largely supportive of Hamas as the primary resistance against Israel. Despite the devastating conditions, many Palestinians see no viable alternative, and a deep-rooted narrative of resilience persists. Israeli defense officials note that the population’s resignation and long history of enduring hardship contribute to the absence of widespread protests against Hamas. The organization has responded to dissent with increased repression, including kidnappings, torture, and executions of protest leaders.
In other regional developments, the Israeli Air Force has conducted a precise strike killing Hezbollah terrorist Muhammad Jaafar Mannah in Sidon, responsible for deploying Hezbollah’s communication systems across Lebanon. Tensions remain high across the borders, with reports of Israeli attacks and Lebanese responses ongoing.
Back in the United States, the Trump administration has intensified its efforts to scrutinize American universities, including Harvard, seeking detailed records of foreign funding and ties over the past decade. This move comes amid broader efforts to curb campus protests against Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The administration claims these measures are necessary to prevent foreign influence, though critics argue they threaten academic freedom and free speech.
In the domestic sphere, Prime Minister Netanyahu is expected to make a significant statement tonight, with security and diplomatic issues at the forefront. The situation remains fluid, and international efforts continue to seek pathways to de-escalation.
That is the latest update. We will continue to monitor developments and bring you updates as they unfold.
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 mu
Published on 1 month ago