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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-18 at 16:04
HEADLINES
1. Israel Reopens Temple Mount Amid Tensions
2. Iran Deploys Ballistic Missiles as Region War Escalates
3. U.S. Warns Iran of Possible Military Action
The time is now 12:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At the noon hour, the situation in Israel and the broader Middle East remains highly volatile and dynamic. Following the recent escalation, the Israeli government has begun easing some restrictions, including reopening the gates of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem after six days of closure. Meanwhile, the Israeli Defense Forces report that on the home front, casualties are significantly lower than initial estimates, though authorities emphasize the importance of continued resilience and perseverance.
In the Gaza Strip, the situation remains tense as Hamas continues its hostilities, with ongoing hostages being held and the Israeli military maintaining a state of readiness. Across southern Israel, reports indicate that the Israeli Air Force targeted three Iranian Cobra attack helicopters stationed at a military base near Kermanshah, Iran, in a precise strike believed to be part of ongoing efforts to weaken Iran’s military capabilities in the region.
International responses are also shaping the landscape. The United States, under President Donald Trump, has reiterated its stance that Iran has approached the US for negotiations but has emphasized that the window for diplomacy may have closed. Trump has demanded Iran’s unconditional surrender, asserting that Iran's air defenses are now completely ineffective and hinting at potential military action, though he has stopped short of confirming an imminent strike.
The US Embassy in Jerusalem is actively coordinating evacuation plans for American citizens trapped in Israel amid the conflict, with reports that several Iranian government planes have safely landed in Oman following a series of tense military movements. Iran has issued evacuation warnings for Haifa, and its Revolutionary Guard Corps has issued a stark warning to residents in that area to evacuate immediately, citing incoming missile threats. Iran’s recent actions include landings of Iranian delegations in Oman and the deployment of ballistic missiles, some of which have struck Israeli territory, causing damage and casualties.
Meanwhile, Israeli military officials report that they have conducted significant operations in Iran, including the destruction of three Iranian attack helicopters and the identification of critical nuclear facilities such as Fordow, which is now enriched to 60% uranium—approaching weapons-grade levels. The Iranian nuclear program remains a major concern, with experts warning that Fordow’s deep underground fortifications make it a highly challenging target, potentially requiring US involvement for a decisive strike.
Diplomatic efforts continue with Russia’s Vladimir Putin engaging Gulf leaders in discussions about Iran, seeking support for diplomatic solutions. However, the Israeli government remains firm on its position, with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar denouncing Turkish President Erdogan’s inflammatory rhetoric and accusations of incitement against Israel.
Amid these developments, the international community observes a near-total internet shutdown in Iran, further indicating the severity of the current crisis. The US and British navy ships have reportedly left their ports in Bahrain, signaling a possible shift in regional military posture.
In other notable events, a civilian home in Petah Tikva was hit directly in an attack, and rescue teams recovered remains from a collapsed building in Bat Yam, as Israel faces the ongoing threat from missile and drone assaults. The nation continues to prepare for possible further escalation, with the government implementing new security protocols and evacuation procedures.
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Published on 3 weeks, 4 days ago