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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-29 at 16:04
HEADLINES
Iran dismisses US claims amid rising tensions in Middle East
Israel nears Gaza control amid internal debate over ceasefire
US-TikTok deal and Iran’s nuclear stance spark global uncertainties
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 twelve noon, this is the latest on the evolving security situation across the Middle East and international responses.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, has publicly dismissed US claims of exaggerated military actions following recent American airstrikes in Iran. In an interview with Fox News, Khamenei stated that President Trump’s descriptions of the strikes were “extremely exaggerated,” suggesting that beneath the surface, there is a different reality that the United States is trying to conceal. Meanwhile, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations reaffirmed Tehran’s commitment to increasing its uranium enrichment, asserting that “enrichment will never cease,” despite international pressure.
In Israel, a critical session is underway as the cabinet convenes to discuss the future of the Gaza conflict. Military officials are expected to update the government on operational progress, with reports indicating that Israeli forces are nearing full control over approximately seventy-five percent of Gaza. However, there remains considerable debate within the government regarding the true extent of Hamas's remaining capabilities. Some ministers question the army’s assessment, citing ongoing threats and the presence of senior Hamas commanders within the enclave. Discussions also include whether to pursue a partial ceasefire or continue full military operations, with the possibility of a deal that would enable the release of some hostages while strategic objectives remain in focus. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government is under pressure from various factions, with some ministers advocating for a humanitarian separation in Gaza to weaken Hamas, and others opposing continued aid, fearing it could prolong the conflict.
In southern Israel, tension persists in the community of Nahal Oz, where residents are protesting the government’s decision to declare a return to normalcy. After 632 days of conflict and ongoing hostilities, the community’s leadership criticizes the government for proposing a “return to routine,” which they describe as disconnected from the reality of ongoing danger, including persistent military presence and frequent explosions. They emphasize that, despite official statements, the area remains under threat, with military vehicles on the roads and ongoing fire from Hamas.
Internationally, the diplomatic landscape is tense. The Iranian Foreign Ministry’s deputy, Majeed Takhte-Ravanchi, dismissed reports of an imminent indirect negotiation with the United States, labeling such claims as “misinformation.” Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader has issued a religious ruling condemning anyone who threatens Iranian leadership, labeling such individuals as “war criminals” and duty-bound to be punished by Allah.
In the broader context of regional conflict, reports indicate intensified Israeli military operations in Gaza, including the destruction of weapons caches and the elimination of terrorist operatives by the Givati Brigade’s combat team. These efforts are part of a larger operation aimed at degrading Hamas's military infrastructure, with recent engagements involving targeted strikes on underground tunnels and command centers.
On the international front, US President Donald Trump announced that there is a “buyer” for TikTok, suggesting that an American group of wealthy investors is interested in acquiring the popular social media platform, potentially averting a ban. Trump also commented on the recent attack in Iran, claiming that no enriched uranium was removed before the strike and affirming that all Iranian nuclear facil
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