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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-06 at 20:04
HEADLINES
1. Iran-Backed Houthis Defy Ceasefire Threats Against Israel
2. Hezbollah Threatens War Support Amid Escalating Lebanon Tensions
3. Israel Expands Draft Amid Manpower Shortage and Regional Turmoil
The time is now 04:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At 4:00 PM, our top story centers on the ongoing multi-front conflict involving Israel, Iran, and their proxies across seven key zones. The situation remains highly volatile, with developments that have significant regional and international implications.
In Yemen, the Houthis, an Iran-backed insurgent group, have announced their intention to persist with attacks against Israel, despite a reported ceasefire agreement with the United States. The group's leader, Mahdi al-Mashat, explicitly warned Israeli civilians to remain in shelters, indicating that any ceasefire with Washington does not extend to Israel. This declaration comes amid ongoing tensions and recent Israeli military strikes targeting Houthi-controlled infrastructure, including the port of Hodeidah and Sanaa’s airport, in response to attacks such as the recent light injury at Ben Gurion Airport.
The US, under President Donald Trump, announced a potential ceasefire with the Houthis, claiming the group had expressed a desire to halt disruptive actions at sea and missile launches against Israel. However, sources indicate that this decision was made without prior consultation with Israeli officials, raising concerns about coordination. Trump characterized the Houthis’ capitulation as a sign of their exhaustion from fighting, but the group remains defiant, emphasizing support for Gaza and rejecting retreat.
Meanwhile, in Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed multiple responses to attacks, including recent strikes on Houthi targets, asserting that whoever attacks Israel will pay a heavy price. The Israeli military has intensified operations in the region, emphasizing its readiness to respond decisively to threats, including the attack on Ben Gurion Airport that injured six individuals.
On the Lebanon front, tensions escalate as Hezbollah continues missile launches and threatens support for Gaza, reaffirming their stance: “There will be no retreat from supporting Gaza, no matter the price.” The Lebanese group remains active along the northern border, with ongoing exchanges of fire and warnings of broader confrontation.
In Syria, reports detail the mass movement of Druze families fleeing violence, with some receiving aid from Israel amidst the chaos. Syrian security forces have increased their presence, especially around Damascus and the Kuneitra region, amid fears of spillover from the conflict in neighboring countries.
Iraq and Iran continue their involvement, with Iran-backed militias reportedly mobilizing in response to regional tensions. The situation remains delicate, with threats of escalation from various factions, and international actors urging restraint.
In the broader regional context, the United States and Israel are monitoring developments closely. The US is also moving to merge its Palestinian affairs office with the main embassy in Jerusalem, signaling a shift in diplomatic strategy. Meanwhile, President Trump has teased a major announcement related to Middle East diplomacy, adding a layer of anticipation to the diplomatic landscape.
In Israel’s domestic scene, the military is expanding draft notices to Haredim, amid a manpower shortage and ongoing operations in Gaza. The move has sparked political debates, with some Haredi leaders warning of potential coalition instability.
On the sports front, Israeli football teams face a turbulent week. Maccabi Haifa’s coach Barak Bachar was dismissed following a 5-1 derby loss to Hapoel Haifa, the worst defeat since 1952, highlighting the turmoil within the club.
Published on 3 days, 10 hours ago