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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-28 at 16:10
HEADLINES
Israel Targets Hamas Leaders in Decisive Strike
Iran’s Hidden Role in Middle East Power Plays Exposed
Lebanese Disarmament Talks Offer Hope Amid Tensions
The time is now 12:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
Today, the Middle East remains at the forefront of global attention as tensions and military activities continue to shape the region’s landscape. Israel is engaged in a direct conflict with Iran, conducting precision strikes against Iranian targets, including a senior military figure in Gaza. Israeli security sources confirm the targeting of high-ranking Hamas commanders, including the recent elimination of Hakam El Eisa, a key figure responsible for planning the October 7th massacre. El Eisa, born in Syria and with a history of fighting against US, Russian, and Israeli forces, was killed in an Israeli drone strike near the Gaza Strip, alongside his wife and grandson. Israeli officials acknowledge the attack but caution that the full extent of its outcomes remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, reports from Gaza suggest Israel’s covert operations, including long-standing Mossad infiltration within Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, have enabled precise strikes that have significantly impacted the battlefield. These operations, spanning decades, have reshaped the dynamics of regional power and security.
In Gaza, the situation remains dire. Despite recent military efforts, hostages taken by Hamas remain in captivity, with families of the missing calling for a political resolution. One mother, whose son has been held for over 631 days, expressed her frustration and desperation, urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to end the conflict and secure their return. She emphasized that the ongoing war has become a political battleground, delaying efforts for a ceasefire and risking further loss of life. American officials, including the Secretary of State, have indicated that a comprehensive deal to free the hostages is on the table, but political disagreements in Israel are preventing progress.
On the broader regional front, Lebanon appears to be moving toward a potential de-escalation. A scheduled government meeting in ten days is expected to discuss the disarmament of Hezbollah, based on a “step-by-step” plan reportedly proposed by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and backed by US mediators. This approach aims to reduce Hezbollah’s weaponry in exchange for Israel withdrawing from certain territories, with a tentative timeline of six months for initial results.
In parallel, tensions persist in Lebanon’s internal politics, with some factions, including the Patriotic Free Lebanon Movement led by Jibran Bassil, expressing cautious support for disarmament, citing a belief that the need for Hezbollah’s weapons has diminished. This shift reflects ongoing discussions about sovereignty and security arrangements in the region.
International reactions include provocative statements from the former Saudi intelligence chief, who suggested that during a time of perceived global imbalance, the United States should have targeted Israel with nuclear weapons rather than Iran. Additionally, Iran’s Supreme Leader participated in a symbolic funeral procession in Tehran, where he appeared as a cardboard cutout alongside other historic figures—an act seen by some analysts as a subtle message about the regime’s resilience amidst mounting pressures.
Other noteworthy incidents include a severe motorcycle accident in Petah Tikva, where a rider sustained serious injuries, and a traffic accident on Highway 4. Domestically, public safety remains a concern alongside the ongoing political and military developments.
As the region faces these tumultuous days, Israel continues its defensive posture, emphasizing its right to protect its citizens while seeking avenues to resolve the hostagetaking crisis an
Published on 1 week, 4 days ago