Podcast Episode Details
Back to Podcast Episodes
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-05 at 08:04
HEADLINES
Published on 1 month ago
1. Israel rescues two hostages in daring Gaza operation
2. US veto blocks Gaza ceasefire amid mounting regional tensions
3. Iran and Russia deepen alliance as Middle East heats up
The time is now 04:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At 4 a.m., Israeli forces successfully recovered the bodies of two hostages, Judy Weinstein-Haggai and Gadi Haggai, in a joint operation conducted in the Khan Yunis area of southern Gaza. The operation was carried out by the Israel Defense Forces and the Shin Bet security service, following intelligence gathered during the interrogation of a captured terrorist. The couple, both holding American citizenship and Weinstein-Haggai additionally Canadian, had been kidnapped during the Hamas invasion of Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7, 2023. They were murdered that morning and their bodies taken to Gaza, where they remained in captivity until their retrieval.
The family expressed relief and gratitude for the successful mission, emphasizing the importance of returning all hostages—both those still alive and the deceased—to their families. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded to the operation, extending condolences to the families and reaffirming Israel’s commitment to bring home all hostages. Currently, fifty-six individuals remain held in Gaza by Hamas, with over twenty confirmed to be alive.
Meanwhile, the international community continues to grapple with the ongoing conflict. The United States vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution that called for an immediate ceasefire and the removal of restrictions on humanitarian aid entering Gaza. The resolution, supported by fourteen other UNSC members, was blocked by US veto in what marked its first use of this power since President Trump’s administration. The US cited concerns over Hamas’s disarmament and condemned the organization’s ongoing hostilities.
In Israel, security measures remain heightened, with the military actively engaged on multiple fronts. The Israeli government has also established a new advisory committee to review the future of Army Radio, reflecting ongoing efforts to adapt national communication strategies during this period of conflict.
On the diplomatic front, reports indicate that Egypt is seriously considering renewing diplomatic ties with Iran, including restoring the ambassador in Tehran—a move that signals shifts in regional alignments. Additionally, Iran’s ambassador to Russia announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit Iran soon, highlighting the deepening cooperation among these nations amidst geopolitical tensions.
Domestically, Israeli officials and security forces continue to emphasize their resolve. Defense Minister Israel Katz praised the military’s precise operation and reaffirmed Israel’s moral obligation to recover all its citizens, living and deceased. The families of the hostages have called for swift action to bring home the remaining captives, underscoring the urgency and emotional weight of the ongoing crisis.
This morning’s developments underscore the ongoing multi-front conflict involving Israel and its adversaries across the region, with significant international implications, ongoing military operations, and deep domestic concerns about safety, security, and national unity. The coming days remain critical in the broader effort to restore stability and secure the release of all hostages held in Gaza.
Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.
I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.
Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.
SOURCES