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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-17 at 12:05
HEADLINES
Iranian security figure targeted in Tehran attack
US issues highest travel warning for Israel amid hostilities
Iran’s key financial institutions hit by major cyberattack
The time is now 08:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At eight in the morning, we begin with an urgent update on the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Reports from Iranian opposition sources indicate that a security figure was targeted and eliminated in an attack in the Andarzgo neighborhood in northern Tehran. The identity of the individual remains unconfirmed, but this incident underscores the tense and volatile security situation within Iran itself.
Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, the United States government has issued its highest travel warning for Israel amid ongoing hostilities. The State Department advises Americans not to travel to the region due to the unpredictable security environment, characterized by daily missile and drone attacks from Iran and Gaza. While Israel’s airports remain closed to civilian traffic, land crossings into Jordan and Egypt are still operational, although the US has not yet organized a mass evacuation for its citizens. American personnel in Israel have been instructed to shelter in place, and the US Embassy reports damage to its Jerusalem branch office from recent missile strikes.
International efforts continue to assist stranded tourists, with some European nations organizing evacuations from Tel Aviv through Egypt. The Israeli Tourism Ministry estimates that around 40,000 foreign visitors remain in the country, including participants in the Birthright program and attendees of Pride events. A limited number of foreign nationals have managed to leave via the port of Ashdod, heading to Cyprus.
Simultaneously, in Iran, a major fire has broken out at the national radio and television building in Tehran, with images circulating of smoke billowing near the state broadcaster’s facilities. Reports also indicate a powerful explosion in central Tehran, with sources awaiting further footage to assess the damage.
On the military front, Israeli forces have launched a series of targeted airstrikes against Iran. Israeli officials announce that in the coming days, the Israeli Air Force will intensify its operations, striking new strategic targets within Iran’s military infrastructure, including missile launchers and command centers in Tehran. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has confirmed that the military aims to degrade Iran’s missile capabilities significantly.
In the Gaza Strip, IDF troops have destroyed a tunnel beneath Khan Younis’ European Hospital, where former Hamas leader Mohammad Sinwar was killed in an overnight operation involving 250 cubic meters of concrete. The IDF reports ongoing activity in the northern Gaza area, with units prepared to expand their operations as needed.
In northern Israel, the Nahal Brigade has advanced into the Samaria Basin, engaging in offensive activities against Hamas and other militant groups, utilizing armored vehicles such as the 'Eitan' combat vehicle. The operation is part of the broader ‘Iron Wall’ campaign, which has now entered its second phase, with the military committed to maintaining a persistent presence and neutralizing threats.
On the cyber front, Iran has suffered a major cyberattack targeting key financial institutions, including the Sepah Bank, which funds the IRGC’s missile and nuclear programs. The attack caused widespread disruptions, including ATM failures and shutdowns at gas stations. Iranian authorities have claimed to have struck Israeli targets, including the Mossad headquarters, but initial reports suggest the missiles were intercepted. A satirical social media post from Israel joked that all Mossad agents are currently in Iran, highlighting the ongoing cyber and psychological warfare.
Published on 3 weeks, 5 days ago