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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-04-24 at 22:07
HEADLINES
Israel deploys new Jewish combat units in Gaza Clash erupts at Lebanon border amid Iran threats Iran-backed militias launch attacks as US boosts Middle East defenses
The time is now 06:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At 6 PM, Israel remains deeply engaged in a complex, multi-front conflict involving Iran and its proxies across seven key theaters: Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, the West Bank, and Iran itself. Tensions have intensified with ongoing hostilities in Gaza, where Israeli forces continue operations against Hamas, including recent incursions by the newly formed special units from the Haredi Jewish community. Reports indicate that dozens of senior officers from this unit, the "Chashmonaim" brigade, have entered Gaza to support ground efforts, with military sources noting their integration into active combat zones in Rafah. Meanwhile, Israeli tank crews engaged in northern Gaza suffered casualties, with one soldier confirmed killed in action and others wounded during firefights with Hamas militants emerging from tunnels. The IDF's efforts to dismantle tunnel networks remain ongoing, amid warnings of escalating attacks from Hamas and its affiliates.
On the northern front, Israeli forces also clashed with Hezbollah militants in Lebanon, with exchanges of fire reported along the border. The Israeli military confirms that Hezbollah has increased its activity, possibly in coordination with Iran, which continues to threaten regional stability with its nuclear program and support for proxy groups. Syria remains a key battleground, where Israeli airstrikes target Iranian-backed positions, while Iran’s Revolutionary Guard continues to bolster its military infrastructure in the region.
In Iraq and Yemen, Iran-backed militias have launched sporadic rocket and drone attacks against Israeli and Western targets, contributing to regional volatility. The United States and its allies have responded with heightened military alertness, including deployments of carrier groups and additional missile defense systems in the Middle East.
Internationally, the conflict has prompted significant diplomatic activity. The United States prepares to announce a substantial arms package to Saudi Arabia, potentially exceeding $100 billion, involving advanced systems from Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Boeing, and other defense contractors. This move aims to strengthen Riyadh's military capabilities amid the broader Middle Eastern tensions but raises questions about regional stability and the impact on the Israeli-Arab balance of power.
Domestically, Israeli society faces mounting pressures, with protests erupting both within Israel and abroad. In New York City, hundreds of Israelis and American Jews demonstrated against Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, criticizing his policies and the government's handling of the conflict. Meanwhile, controversy persists over symbolic gestures, such as Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's decision to wear a keffiyeh during Arab Heritage Month, which has been condemned as offensive by Jewish community leaders.
Adding to the tense atmosphere, Iran's state media aired a provocative AI-generated video depicting the kidnapping of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by IRGC forces, illustrating the regime's ongoing psychological warfare efforts. Meanwhile, Iranian officials continue to threaten Israel openly, with state TV broadcasts emphasizing hostility and the desire to see Israeli leaders captured.
In Gaza, humanitarian conditions worsen as UN agencies warn that nearly two-thirds of essential medical supplies and food aid are at critical levels, with approximately 3,000 aid trucks prepared to enter the enclave. The hunger and medical crises are compounded by Israel's ongoing military operations and the blockade, which restricts supplies and access.
Published on 3 weeks, 1 day ago