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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-17 at 09:05
HEADLINES
1. Iran’s Banking System Crumbles Amid Cyberattacks
2. Israel Strikes Tehran as Iran Threatens Missile Attacks
3. Global Powers Urge Calm as Israel-Iran Tensions Escalate
The time is now 05:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At 5:00 AM, the situation in Israel and the broader region remains highly tense and complex. Reports indicate that Iran’s financial infrastructure is under significant duress, with all ATMs of the historic Bank Sepah, established in 1925, across Tehran, Yazd, Esfahan, Shiraz, and Tabriz, ceasing operations, leaving citizens unable to withdraw cash. Iranian analysts warn of a potential collapse of the banking system, driven by widespread panic and attempts by citizens to access their funds amid ongoing conflict. This financial distress appears to be compounded by a cyberattack attributed to a group linked to Israeli intelligence, which claims to have destroyed data infrastructure tied to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard-backed bank, used historically to circumvent sanctions and fund regional proxies, including missile and nuclear programs.
Meanwhile, military developments continue to escalate. Iran warns of intensified missile strikes in the coming hours, with attack drones targeting the Golan Heights. Sirens have sounded in northern Israel, and multiple alerts have been issued following multiple incursions by unidentified aerial vehicles. Israeli military sources confirm that a drone infiltration was intercepted in the Golan, and there have been reports of a barrage of twenty missiles launched at Israel, with sirens active in northern regions. The Israeli Defense Forces have responded with targeted airstrikes, including a strike on an Iranian military command center in Tehran that reportedly resulted in the death of Iran’s newly appointed military chief.
In the skies over Iran, Israeli aircraft recorded the interception and destruction of missile launchers, demonstrating high-level operational capabilities. Israeli officials emphasize that these actions are part of a broader effort to prevent Iran from escalating its missile and drone attacks, which threaten regional stability and Israeli security.
On the political front, Israeli Prime Minister's security advisor and military intelligence chief have visited bases, praising the exceptional intelligence breakthroughs that have facilitated strikes deep into Iranian territory. The Israeli government continues to monitor hostage situations in Gaza, where negotiations for a ceasefire and prisoner exchange are reportedly making progress. Sources suggest that both sides are displaying increased flexibility, although official agreements have yet to be announced.
Internationally, the European Union and neighboring Gulf states urge de-escalation. Spain’s foreign minister publicly states that there are no signs of a peaceful resolution between Israel and Iran, advocating for a weapons embargo on Israel until the conflict concludes. Meanwhile, US mediators report breakthroughs in ceasefire talks, with exchanges of messages concerning Gaza’s future. US officials highlight that the current military operations are aimed at degrading Iran’s regional influence and preventing further escalation.
Domestically, Israel has extended visas for foreign nationals residing legally within the country, citing security concerns. The economic impact persists as the shekel remains relatively stable despite recent fluctuations, and the Tel Aviv stock exchange shows resilience amid ongoing hostilities.
In northern Israel, sirens continue as alerts for incoming aerial threats persist, including drone infiltrations in the Golan Heights and border regions. The Israeli military reports that these incursions are being thwarted, with rapid responses and advanced interception systems in place. The IDF emphasizes the importance of ongoing
Published on 3 weeks, 5 days ago