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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-07 at 04:04
HEADLINES
1. Israel Launches Major Gaza Offensive Amid Escalating War
2. US Jets Rescued After Sea Mishap During Middle East Operations
3. Israel Pushes for Universal Conscription to Boost Defense
The time is now 12:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
Today, in the ongoing conflict across multiple fronts, Israel faces intensified hostilities and regional tensions. Israeli military sources report a significant escalation in operations against targets in Gaza, following a night attack on the Abu Hamisa school in the Al-Burij camp, which resulted in at least sixteen militants killed. The IDF continues to respond firmly to threats from Gaza, where Hamas remains active, and has announced plans to re-occupy parts of Gaza if Hamas does not meet demands for a hostage deal by the end of the week.
In Lebanon, reports from the Lebanese media indicate that an Israeli drone targeted a vehicle in the southern city of Sidon, resulting in one confirmed fatality. This incident underscores the fragile state of the northern border, where Israeli military activity persists amid rising regional tensions. Additionally, a recent Israeli airstrike in Syria targeted what was described as a militant storage site, further illustrating the multi-front nature of Israel’s defensive efforts.
On the international stage, there are reports that President Donald Trump may visit Israel during his upcoming Middle East trip, which includes stops in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Israeli officials are actively lobbying for a brief visit to Jerusalem, amidst ongoing regional security discussions. Meanwhile, Trump is expected to use his visit to the Gulf states to announce a shift in terminology for the Persian Gulf, proposing to rename it the “Arab Gulf,” a move that could have diplomatic implications.
The region remains volatile, with fresh violence reported in southern Lebanon and Syria. In Gaza, Israel’s military indicates that operations are ongoing to dismantle Hamas infrastructure, following recent threats by Hamas to escalate attacks if hostages are not released. The crisis extends beyond military confrontations, affecting regional stability and international diplomacy.
In the United States, there are reports of two American F-18 fighter jets from the USS Harry S. Truman being lost at sea after a mishap during landing operations. Both pilots were safely rescued, and investigations are underway. The incident has raised questions about the operational readiness of US naval forces amid ongoing commitments in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, in Turkey, authorities conducted a large-scale operation burning twenty tons of confiscated cannabis in the town of Leys. The heavy smoke caused intoxication among residents, who were advised to stay indoors during the five-day operation, highlighting ongoing drug enforcement efforts in the region.
In political developments, Israeli Defense Committee chairman Yuli Edelstein is advocating for a comprehensive and equitable military conscription law, emphasizing the moral and security necessity of universal participation. Despite political pressures and threats from coalition partners, Edelstein remains committed to advancing draft legislation that includes all communities, emphasizing that the “pikuah nefesh”—the duty to preserve life—applies universally. His stance has garnered support from various public and security sectors, urging the government to avoid delaying measures that are vital for national resilience.
On the domestic front, Israeli families continue to grapple with the reality of hostages held by Hamas. According to recent statements, there are currently fifty-nine hostages, with twenty-four listed as alive. The families and intelligence agencies remain in close contact, with ongoing efforts to secure their release, amid concerns over
Published on 3 days, 1 hour ago