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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-29 at 18:04
HEADLINES
Israel and Syria near historic peace deal
Iran mourns 60 martyrs amid escalating tensions
Washington explosion sparks global security alert
The time is now 02:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
Today in the region, tensions and military activity continue to escalate amid ongoing conflicts involving Israel, Iran, and their respective allies. An intense explosion was reported in Washington, prompting a significant security response, though the cause remains under investigation. Meanwhile, in the Middle East, reports suggest a possible peace agreement between Israel and Syria could be reached by the end of 2025, involving Israel's gradual withdrawal from recently controlled territories, including Mount Hermon, which might be transformed into a joint economic zone designated as a "peace garden."
In Gaza, the Israeli military has intensified its operations, launching heavy strikes across northern Gaza as it prepares for a potential reentry into Gaza City. The Israeli cabinet is considering a deeper ground maneuver to increase pressure on Hamas, while the United States continues to push for a ceasefire and a hostage deal amidst ongoing negotiations. The situation remains volatile, with reports of renewed Israeli airstrikes and ongoing hostilities.
On the security front within Israel, the Shin Bet has conducted a major operation in Hebron, arresting over 60 Hamas operatives. This operation was part of a broader effort to dismantle imminent terror threats, including a network responsible for a deadly shooting incident fifteen years ago near Hebron. Additionally, Israeli authorities have detained relatives of terrorists involved in recent attacks, and the military remains on high alert.
In Iran, a funeral was held in Tehran for 60 military commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians killed during the recent aerial conflict with Israel. Iranian state media reported the event as the "procession of the Martyrs of Power," with prominent figures such as Major General Mohammad Bagheri and Revolutionary Guards commanders among those mourned. Iran's leadership has expressed readiness to open a new chapter in relations with Gulf nations, following the conflict.
Meanwhile, in a significant development, Iran’s senior advisor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei accused the United States of using negotiations as a ploy, suggesting that American actions, including threats and sanctions, were aimed at deception. This reflects the ongoing mistrust between Iran and the West, amidst their adversarial stance.
In diplomatic and regional news, US President Donald Trump indicated that more nations are approaching to join the Abraham Accords, with Iran identified as the primary obstacle to broader Arab-Israeli normalization. He also mentioned that despite uncertainties regarding Syria’s normalization, he has moved to lift sanctions related to the issue, signaling a shift in US policy.
On the domestic front, Israeli authorities have lifted restrictions on Gaza border communities, allowing residents to return to their homes following assessments that security risks have diminished. Several communities are now open, with ongoing reconstruction efforts and continued support for those in temporary accommodations.
In other regional developments, Saudi Arabia has announced the rewarding of 1,000 Palestinian relatives of terrorists with pilgrimage rights to Mecca, a move seen by some as a sign of loyalty to terror figures and an indication of ongoing support for Palestinian militants.
As the conflict persists, the international community remains watchful. Iran has held a funeral procession for 60 killed in the war, including military leaders and scientists, while Israel and the United States continue to conduct strikes and strategic operations. The situation in Gaza remains ten
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