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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-05 at 07:04
HEADLINES
1. Israeli Forces Rescue Hostages in Gaza Night Raid
2. US Vetoes UN Ceasefire Amid Gaza Humanitarian Crisis
3. Egypt-Iran Diplomacy Thaw Sparks Regional Shift
The time is now 03:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At 3:00 AM, the situation across Israel and the surrounding region remains tense and complex, with ongoing military, diplomatic, and humanitarian developments. Israel continues to confront threats on multiple fronts as its security forces work tirelessly to respond to sustained attacks and rescue operations.
In the northern arena, Israeli forces conducted a nighttime operation in Gaza, retrieving the bodies of two hostages, Judith Weinstein-Haggai and Gadi Haggai, both American citizens with Canadian citizenship for Gadi. They were kidnapped on October 7 from Kibbutz Nir Oz and held by Hamas and its affiliates. The military rescue was executed with precision, ending months of uncertainty for their families. The families expressed relief but emphasized that their grief remains until all hostages are returned. Currently, fifty-six hostages are held in Gaza, with twenty confirmed to be alive. Israeli authorities reaffirm their commitment to bringing all captives home.
Meanwhile, the political and diplomatic landscape continues to be fraught. The United States vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution that demanded an immediate ceasefire and the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid entering Gaza. The resolution, supported by fourteen of the fifteen council members, was blocked by the US citing concerns over Hamas and its disarmament. US Ambassador Dorothy Shea stated the measure was unacceptable, emphasizing that it failed to condemn Hamas explicitly. The veto drew praise from the World Jewish Congress, reaffirming US resolve to oppose measures perceived as emboldening terrorist factions.
In the Middle East, reports indicate some diplomatic shifts. An Egyptian senior politician disclosed Cairo's serious intent to restore full diplomatic relations with Iran, including the return of ambassadors, a move that marks a significant thaw after decades of severed ties since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. This development could influence regional alignments amidst ongoing conflicts.
Domestically, Israel's defense establishment remains active and resolute. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced the formation of a new advisory committee to review the operations and messaging of Army Radio, aiming to ensure that the station effectively supports the troops and the public during this prolonged conflict. Concurrently, the IDF continues its military operations, with Defense Minister Gallant praising the bravery and precision of soldiers and intelligence units. He emphasized Israel’s moral obligation to recover all its captives and restore security.
In related security actions, the IDF and Shin Bet carried out a joint operation in Gaza that resulted in the recovery of the bodies of the kidnapped couple, Judith Weinstein-Haggai and Gadi Haggai. The operation was a culmination of extensive intelligence efforts and cooperation with international agencies. The families expressed their gratitude, acknowledging the complex and painful process but emphasizing that the ultimate goal remains the safe return of all remaining hostages.
On the humanitarian front, wounded civilians and the families of fallen soldiers continue to mourn. An incident on Highway 4 resulted in injuries, illustrating that the conflict’s toll extends beyond the battlefield. Israeli authorities remain committed to ensuring safety and security for their citizens amid ongoing hostilities.
Internationally, President Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s unwavering stance, asserting that the country will not rest until every hostage, whether alive or deceased, is brought home. The governm
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