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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-29 at 22:04
HEADLINES
1. Israel Strikes Hezbollah Targets Amid Rising Tensions
2. Gaza Evacuations as Israeli Military Intensifies Offensive
3. UN Faces Budget Cuts, Hampering Humanitarian Aid
The time is now 06:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At 6 p.m., this is the latest update on the ongoing conflict in the region. Israel’s military has reported striking multiple targets in southern Lebanon, including sites linked to Hezbollah. The IDF confirms that these strikes targeted rocket and missile launchers in response to recent attempts by Hezbollah to reestablish bases in Sidon, which violate previous ceasefire agreements. This escalation follows a series of airstrikes on Hezbollah infrastructure, including weapons storage and military sites in southern Lebanon, with Israel asserting that these activities breach understandings with Lebanon.
In Gaza, tensions remain high as the Israeli Defense Forces have issued a mass evacuation warning for residents in several northern neighborhoods, including Al-Atatra, Jabalia Al-Balad, Shujaiya, Al-Daraj, and Al-Zeitoun. The IDF states this is due to ongoing military operations aimed at dismantling terrorist capabilities, emphasizing that the areas are now considered combat zones. Despite reports of a potential ceasefire, the Israeli military continues its offensive, with recent strikes on Hamas military sites and infrastructure, including efforts to prevent the restoration of terrorist operations.
Meanwhile, in the political arena, there are indications of a stalled ceasefire process. The Hamas leadership has rejected the ceasefire proposal outlined by US envoy Steve Witkoff, citing that it does not meet their demands and perceives the deal as biased towards Israel. Hamas officials have expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the proposal lacks guarantees for a permanent ceasefire and does not sufficiently address their core demands. Reports indicate that Hamas is reviewing the proposal carefully, with some members signaling that their leadership is considering a response that could include further escalation.
Internationally, the United Nations is preparing to cut its budget by 20%, which would result in nearly 6,900 job cuts. The financial strain is partly attributed to the United States' arrears and reduced funding, complicating humanitarian efforts amid the ongoing conflict. The UN has also indicated it may reduce staff by as much as twenty percent, citing a severe funding crisis.
On the diplomatic front, the Saudi news outlet Al Arabiya has published details of a ceasefire proposal brokered by Steve Witkoff, which includes a 60-day ceasefire, hostage releases, and a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. However, Israeli officials and Hamas representatives have expressed skepticism, with Hamas stating the proposal does not sufficiently guarantee a permanent peace or address their key demands. The situation remains fluid as negotiations continue, with both sides cautious about commitments.
In domestic Israeli news, a tragic incident occurred near Kafr Kanna, where a 39-year-old man, Tarek Awuda, was shot and killed in a shooting incident. Israeli police are investigating the case as a possible criminal act, with authorities conducting searches for suspects.
Finally, in other regional developments, a prominent Hamas official has indicated that the group is reviewing the latest ceasefire offer and has not yet accepted it, citing concerns over its fairness and effectiveness. The overall atmosphere remains tense, with military actions ongoing and diplomatic efforts underway, all amid reports that a broader regional escalation may still be possible.
This has been the latest update. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide further details as events unfold.
Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: O
Published on 1 month, 1 week ago