Podcast Episode Details

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-18 at 12:06

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HEADLINES
1. Israel Strikes Iran Over 40 Missile Targets
2. Iran Vows Resilience Amid Escalating Conflict
3. Civilians Suffer as Middle East Tensions Surge

The time is now 08:03 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At 8:03 AM, this is the latest update on the ongoing Middle East tensions and the Israel-Iran confrontation.

Israeli military forces continue their targeted strikes against Iranian military infrastructure and missile launch sites across western Iran, with reports indicating that over 40 missile-related targets have been hit in multiple waves. The Israeli Air Force has also successfully intercepted several drone attacks originating from Iran, and recent footage shows strikes on a missile launcher prepared to fire at Israeli territory. Additionally, an Israeli Hermes drone was shot down over Iranian airspace, highlighting the intensity of the conflict.

In Iran, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered a defiant televised speech, warning that Iran will never surrender and that any American military intervention will lead to severe and irreversible consequences. He emphasized Iran’s readiness to defend itself and declared that threats and attacks will be met with force, asserting that the Iranian nation is resilient and united in the face of external pressures.

Meanwhile, Iran’s state media report the detention of suspected Mossad agents and the seizure of Israeli-made Spike missiles with guidance equipment, suggesting a heightened intelligence and security alert within Iran amid the hostilities. Iranian authorities also claim that some of their missile systems have been damaged or intercepted, though they remain undeterred in their stance.

Israel’s defense authorities have announced a partial easing of wartime restrictions, allowing limited civil activity and gatherings in areas outside the conflict zones, as they assess that Iran’s missile capabilities have been significantly diminished. The Israeli Defense Ministry and Home Front Command continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing that the current relaxation does not signify an end to hostilities.

On the diplomatic front, French President Emmanuel Macron advised against any regime change in Iran through military means, warning that such actions could lead to chaos in the Middle East. US President Donald Trump, who has returned to Washington amid rising tensions, has issued sharp rhetoric demanding Iran’s unconditional surrender, though American officials clarify that no decision has been made regarding direct military involvement at this stage.

Adding to the human toll, reports confirm civilian casualties from missile strikes, including the tragic death of a young Ukrainian girl undergoing cancer treatment in Bat Yam, Israel, along with several other civilians, underscoring the wider impact of this escalation.

In the international arena, German Foreign Minister Johann Dvopol called for Iran to return to diplomatic negotiations, while the Israeli government prepares for possible further escalation. The security situation remains volatile, with fears of a prolonged conflict that could destabilize the entire region.

This is the situation as it stands at 8:03 AM. We will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as they unfold.

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
https://worldisraelnews.com/macron-cautions-against-regime-change-in-iran/
Published on 3 weeks, 4 days ago