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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-05 at 05:04
HEADLINES
1. Israel targets Hezbollah leader amid U.S. fury
2. Israel expands Gaza operations despite internal clashes
3. Tense Israel weather sparks flood fears
The time is now 01:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At one o'clock in the morning, the situation across Israel and its surrounding regions remains tense and complex. Reports indicate that Israel recently carried out a targeted operation to eliminate Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, an action that has elicited strong reactions from the Biden administration. Israeli officials disclosed that the United States was notably upset over the timing and handling of the strike, particularly as Israel did not provide advance warning, citing ignored calls from Washington. Former Israeli ambassador to the US, Mike Herzog, stated that US officials were furious because Israel prioritized the elimination of Nasrallah over a ceasefire brokered by the Americans. Herzog added that efforts to coordinate with US officials, including attempts to reach National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, were unsuccessful, leading to frustration and accusations of deception. Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant reported that he informed US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin shortly before the strike, but received no support. Austin reportedly warned that the operation could escalate into a regional war, to which Gallant responded by emphasizing Nasrallah’s direct threat to both Israeli and American lives.
In the broader conflict, Israel’s security cabinet has approved an expansion of military operations in Gaza, including the call-up of reserve troops. This decision comes amid ongoing hostilities with Palestinian factions and reports of aid distribution plans, which have sparked disagreements within the Israeli government, notably with Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who has suggested bombing Hamas warehouses where aid supplies are reportedly abundant. Israel has also announced the easing of some restrictions in the West Bank, with security forces conducting patrols and searches following recent incidents, including the apprehension of suspects involved in criminal activities, though officials have emphasized there is no heightened threat to regional security at this time.
Weather conditions across Israel are currently partly cloudy, with lower-than-normal temperatures and localized rain in the north and center, mainly until midday. There are concerns about possible flash floods in eastern river valleys. Winds are moderate over the Mediterranean Sea, with gusts reaching up to 45 kilometers per hour, and wave heights are significant, reaching up to one and a half meters. Temperatures vary across the country, with colder regions such as Jerusalem and northern towns experiencing lows around 10 degrees Celsius, while southern areas like Eilat remain warmer.
In addition to the regional conflict, local incidents continue to unfold. In Arad, police and security forces responded overnight to criminal activities, including a car theft and a robbery suspect fleeing the scene. Authorities reassured the public that these do not involve security threats to the area. Meanwhile, residents in Ariel have been notified that they may now leave their homes following security sweeps, with increased police presence and checkpoints expected until further notice.
Looking ahead, the weather is expected to stabilize and gradually warm over the weekend, with forecasts predicting a shift to warmer, sunnier conditions. As Israel grapples with its multi-front conflicts, the internal and external pressures remain high, underscoring the delicate balance between security operations and diplomatic efforts. We will continue to monitor these developments and keep the public informed.
Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.
I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and
Published on 5 days, 9 hours ago