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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-19 at 13:04
HEADLINES
Israel Targets Iran Missile Sites in Major Strike
Iran Launches Deadly Missiles Amid Escalating Conflict
US Deploys Carriers as Gaza Bombardments Intensify
The time is now 09:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At 9:00 a.m., this is the latest update on the escalating security situation in the Middle East. Israel continues to face a complex and multi-layered conflict involving both direct military actions and regional proxy involvement.
Israel’s military has carried out a series of targeted strikes in Iran, focusing on missile infrastructure and military personnel in western Iran. Approximately twenty Israeli Air Force fighter jets participated in intelligence-based operations, targeting surface-to-surface missile sites and logistics trucks en route to launch positions. Israeli officials estimate that their recent attacks have successfully destroyed around two-thirds of Iran’s missile launchers, leaving over 100 still operational, and have struck key nuclear facilities in Natanz, Isfahan, and Arak. Notably, nuclear sites in Bushehr and Fordow were not targeted in this wave of strikes.
Meanwhile, Iran’s response has involved launching missile barrages into Israeli territory. Reports confirm that some of these missiles carried banned cluster munitions, which exploded upon impact, causing additional damage and injuries. The Israeli defense establishment has warned the public not to touch or move remnants from these weapons, as they pose a significant danger. The use of cluster bombs, which are internationally prohibited under the Convention on Cluster Munitions, highlights the severity of the current escalation.
In Gaza, Israeli forces have conducted intense airstrikes in Jabalia, targeting militant infrastructure and personnel. The Gaza Civil Defence reports at least twenty-five Palestinians killed, including civilians gathered near aid distribution points. The ongoing conflict has resulted in widespread destruction and a rising number of casualties, with reports of wounded civilians and damaged civilian infrastructure, including hospitals.
Throughout the region, hostilities extend beyond Israel and Iran. Hezbollah in Lebanon remains cautious, with US envoy Tom Barrack warning against Lebanese group involvement in the conflict, emphasizing that any such decision would be a “very bad” move. Despite recent heavy losses in last year’s war with Israel, Hezbollah maintains its stance of non-intervention but continues to monitor the situation closely.
The United States is actively reinforcing its military presence in the region, deploying three aircraft carriers—USS Gerald R. Ford, USS Nimitz, and USS Carl Vinson—to the Middle East. The USS Gerald R. Ford is positioned near Israel in the Mediterranean, signaling a strong show of support and deterrence. US officials have also announced plans to vet social media activity of student visa applicants, aiming to prevent support for terrorist organizations, amid concerns over rising antisemitism and security threats.
In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly acknowledged the heavy toll of ongoing hostilities, noting that his son, who had to cancel a wedding due to the conflict, has paid a personal price. Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to self-defense, asserting that the country will continue to act decisively against threats, including threats of nuclear and missile attacks. He also emphasized that Israel will do everything necessary to protect its citizens, irrespective of international pressure or negotiations.
The financial markets remain surprisingly resilient despite the conflict, with the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange posting gains for the fifth consecutive day, reflecting investor confidence that Israel’s economy can withstand the turmoil. The shekel remains stable around 3.48 against the d
Published on 3 weeks, 6 days ago