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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-20 at 13:03
HEADLINES
1. Israel Strikes Iran Amid Escalating Middle East War
2. Hezbollah Targets Israel as U.S. Sends Military Aid
3. Global Oil Threat Grows with Strait of Hormuz Blockade
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 nine o'clock in the morning, news continues to highlight the escalating conflict in the Middle East, with Israel firmly engaged in defensive operations against Iranian military targets. Israeli forces are actively striking Iranian infrastructure in western and central Iran, targeting missile facilities believed to be preparing for launch against Israel. This comes amid reports of Israeli fighter jets focusing on Iranian military installations, with sources indicating the elimination of a nuclear scientist in a drone strike in Tehran.
Simultaneously, Israel's air defense system, known as "Barak," has been used publicly for the first time to intercept an unmanned aerial vehicle crossing into Israeli territory. The Israeli military confirms ongoing efforts to safeguard its skies through a broad array of air defense systems, including Iron Dome, David's Sling, and advanced laser and electronic warfare technologies.
Regional tensions remain high, with Iran threatening to block the Strait of Hormuz if the United States intervenes militarily, a move that could significantly disrupt global oil supplies and provoke a broader conflict. Iran has also demonstrated military strength through nationwide marches and support rallies in Tehran, while pro-Iranian factions in Iraq and Lebanon have organized marches supporting Tehran. Notably, Hezbollah in southern Lebanon has conducted targeted attacks, with recent operations including the elimination of key organization commanders, further intensifying hostilities.
Israel's military response has included targeted strikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, where two recent operatives were confirmed killed—both identified as Hezbollah members, with funeral marches emphasizing their militant affiliations. Israeli forces also report ongoing operations in Iraq and Syria, targeting Iranian-backed militia infrastructure and missile launch sites.
Amid these developments, international reactions are cautious. The United States is conducting a large-scale military airlift, deploying multiple C-17 transport planes with weapon systems to the Middle East, signaling a show of support and readiness. US lawmakers are divided; some, like Senator Schumer, advocate for diplomatic solutions and warn against escalation, while others consider the potential of preemptive military action against Iranian nuclear sites, including the underground facility at Fordo.
In Lebanon, the political landscape shows signs of strain. The Lebanese interior minister has publicly warned that Hezbollah's support for Iran constitutes an act of treason, amid mass marches in support of Tehran. Meanwhile, Iranian and pro-Iranian demonstrations continue across Iran and Iraq, with Tehran displaying signs of internal unity despite external aggression.
In Gaza, Israeli forces have issued urgent evacuation notices to residents in the city’s old town and Tuffah neighborhood, as Israel intensifies its operations aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure. Reports also indicate ongoing security threats from Gaza, with continued rocket fire and hostages held by Hamas, while Israel maintains a strong defensive posture with a comprehensive air defense network.
The overall picture remains one of heightened alertness and military readiness, with Israel and its allies prepared for further escalation. The threat of missile and drone attacks from Iran and its proxies persists, alongside the risk of wider regional conflict involving Lebanon, Iraq, and potentially the United States. The coming hours are likely to see continued military activity, with
Published on 3 weeks, 2 days ago