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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-02 at 12:04
HEADLINES
Israeli Forces Expand Gaza Ground Operations
Hezbollah Threats Escalate Northern Border Tensions
Iran Rejects US Nuclear Deal, Vows Retaliation
The time is now 08:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
Today, the Middle East remains a region of intense conflict and diplomatic tensions, with multiple fronts shaping the ongoing crisis. Israel continues its military operations across Gaza, with the Israeli Defense Forces expanding ground maneuvers and striking numerous targets. Over the past day, Israeli forces have targeted infrastructure associated with terrorist organizations, including underground tunnels, weapon depots, and military compounds, in an effort to weaken Hamas' capabilities. Reports also indicate that Israeli aircraft conducted airstrikes on various sites in Gaza, including command centers and weapon storage facilities, with the aim of degrading militant infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the situation in Lebanon remains volatile, as Hezbollah continues to reinforce its positions and threaten to escalate hostilities. Israeli officials have expressed concern over increased Hezbollah activity along the northern border, citing preparations for potential cross-border attacks. Lebanon’s government has called for restraint, but tensions persist, fueled by political instability and ongoing regional rivalries.
In Syria, the conflict persists with Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian-backed militia positions and military installations, especially in the eastern provinces. Reports suggest that these strikes aim to prevent the transfer of weapons and to diminish Iran’s influence in the region. Additionally, Syrian state media reported that several military sites were hit overnight, with no immediate casualties confirmed.
Across the broader Middle East, Iran continues to support proxy groups and has issued statements warning of retaliatory actions if Israel escalates its campaign. Iran’s leadership has condemned Israeli military operations in Gaza and has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Palestinian factions, complicating diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict.
Internationally, the United States has reinforced its support for Israel, providing military aid and intelligence assistance, while also urging restraint from all parties. The US State Department announced a temporary pause on new student visa appointments, citing plans to expand social media screening to scrutinize applicants' political beliefs and online activities. This move follows broader efforts by the US government to monitor social media for anti-Semitic content and political extremism, raising concerns about civil liberties and due process.
In Iran, officials have signaled that they are drafting a negative response to the recent US nuclear proposal. A senior diplomat indicated that Iran views the US offer as one-sided and unacceptable, emphasizing that Tehran demands the lifting of all oil sanctions and a recognition of its right to nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. The Iranian government considers the US proposal a "non-starter," citing excessive demands and a lack of clarity on sanctions relief. After multiple rounds of talks, many issues remain unresolved, with Iran insisting on a phased approach to sanctions removal and the US maintaining its position on incremental easing linked to nuclear compliance.
In Ukraine, Russian forces continue their military activities, with reports of an escalation in the use of strategic missiles. Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for a strong and aggressive response to Ukrainian attacks, raising fears of a potential use of tactical nuclear weapons. Russian military authorities have reportedly placed missile systems on high alert, signaling a possible intensification of hostilities.
In other regional developments, diplomatic effor
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