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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-28 at 00:05
HEADLINES
Iran’s leadership shaken by covert strikes and arrests
Hezbollah’s weakened grip signals regional power shift
Israel’s targeted strikes threaten Iran’s nuclear resilience
The time is now 08:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At 8:01 PM, we continue to follow the escalating conflict in the Middle East, marked by significant developments on multiple fronts. Reports from Gaza indicate that armed forces loyal to Abu Abu Shabab have seized control of the Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis after intense exchanges of fire. Palestinian sources suggest that Hamas is attempting to regain some footing amid ongoing violence, while Israel’s military operations persist in Gaza, targeting Hamas infrastructure and attempting to rescue hostages. The situation remains volatile, with no immediate signs of de-escalation.
Meanwhile, tensions in Iran have reached a critical point. An unprecedented attack in Tehran on June 13 saw fighter jets and anti-aircraft fire rip through the night sky, followed by a series of explosions. Reports indicate that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was moved to a secure underground bunker amid fears of targeted strikes. Sources describe that the Iranian leadership believes the White House authorized a covert operation that caught Khamenei off guard, damaging parts of his command structure and killing key advisors, including Admiral Ali Shamkhani, a prominent figure associated with Iran’s nuclear program.
Despite the setbacks, Iran’s regime publicly asserts resilience. Khamenei appeared in a televised address, dismissing the attacks as a mistake by Israel and the United States, and calling on Iranians to remain steadfast. He warned that Iran's response would come "at the right time," and emphasized the importance of continued resistance. Iran’s state media and regime-affiliated outlets report increased arrests of individuals suspected of espionage, with over 700 detainees accused of collaborating with Israeli intelligence in recent weeks. Reports also mention the beginning of executions as part of a crackdown on perceived traitors.
On the regional front, Hezbollah has suffered significant setbacks. Following Israeli strikes, the Lebanese militant group’s leadership appears diminished, with Naim Qassem, Hezbollah’s Secretary-General, offering only vague threats rather than decisive action. The group’s missile arsenals have been degraded, and their ability to project power on Israel’s northern border has been weakened. This reflects a broader pattern of Iranian proxies facing operational difficulties amidst the ongoing conflict.
Internationally, the United States maintains a watchful stance, with President Trump publicly stating that Iran’s leadership is hiding and that the US does not intend to target Khamenei directly at this time. However, the political and military pressure on Iran continues to mount, with analysts warning that the regime’s survival hinges on its ability to restore damaged military capabilities and suppress dissent. Experts suggest that Iran’s leadership is considering internal power shifts, possibly preparing for succession, with figures like Mojtaba Khamenei or Hassan Khomeini seen as potential successors.
The broader geopolitical landscape remains tense. Discussions among Western and regional powers highlight the fragile balance of influence, with some analysts warning that the current ceasefire may only be temporary. Israel’s military campaign inflicted severe damage on Iranian nuclear and missile facilities, but the regime is expected to prioritize rebuilding these systems. The strategic goal for Israel and its allies remains to weaken Iran’s military capabilities and prevent the proliferation of proxy forces, even as the possibility of future confrontations looms.
In conclusion, the conflict’s intensity underscores the precarious s
Published on 1 week, 5 days ago