Podcast Episode Details
Back to Podcast Episodes
Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-07-03 at 15:04
HEADLINES
1. Israel Targets Iranian Operatives Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions
2. Gaza Hospital Strike Kills 12 in Devastating Civilian Toll
3. Iran Calls for Assassination of US and Israeli Leaders
The time is now 11:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At 11:00 AM, this is your hourly news update.
Tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East amid a series of significant developments. Israel remains deeply engaged in its efforts to counter threats from Iranian-backed militias and terrorist organizations, while also addressing the ongoing war in Gaza. The Israeli Defense Forces have targeted senior Iranian operatives operating in Lebanon, including a high-ranking member of the Quds Force, in response to recent missile and drone attacks from Hezbollah and other Iranian proxies. These strikes are part of Israel’s broader military campaign to neutralize threats from Iran and its allied groups.
In Gaza, the humanitarian crisis persists with devastating consequences. Israeli strikes have hit a school sheltering displaced Palestinians, resulting in at least 12 fatalities, mostly women and children, according to Gaza’s civil defence. Witnesses describe scenes of destruction and mourning, with residents expressing despair over the ongoing violence. The war, now nearly 21 months old, has claimed over 57,000 lives on the Palestinian side, with a significant number of civilian casualties, according to Hamas-run health authorities. The conflict was sparked by Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue with some promising signals. Hamas is reportedly leaning toward accepting a proposed deal that would include the release of hostages and a ceasefire, though a final decision remains pending. Negotiations involve mediators from Turkey, Egypt, and Qatar, with discussions focusing on the specifics of a 60-day ceasefire and the conditions for the release of captives. Israel and the United States are closely monitoring these developments, with US officials expressing cautious optimism.
Internationally, the United States under the current administration remains committed to Israel’s security but is also urging for increased humanitarian access to Gaza. Meanwhile, in Europe, Ireland faces mounting criticism from US lawmakers for its position on Israel, with Senator James Risch warning of potential economic repercussions if Ireland proceeds with legislation targeting Israeli trade and settlements. The US and Ireland's diplomatic tensions highlight the broader global divide over the conflict.
In other news, Iran’s leadership has issued two fatwas calling for the assassination of US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, labeling them enemies of Islam. These religious edicts are seen as signals of Iran's ongoing hostility and an attempt to rally support among its followers for acts of violence against these figures. Iranian officials have also hinted at internal security measures and increased repression amid alleged security breaches and unrest.
Domestically within Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has visited Kibbutz Nir Oz for the first time since the October 7 massacre, prompting protests from residents who criticize his government’s handling of the tragedy. The visit was met with mixed reactions, including calls for accountability and demands for acknowledgment of the community’s suffering.
In other security matters, Israeli forces have continued their operations in Judea and Samaria, arresting suspected militants and dismantling weapon manufacturing sites. The ongoing effort underscores Israel’s focus on preventing further attacks and destabilization.
Finally, in a troubling incident, a suspicious envelope filled with a powdery substance was sent to th
Published on 4 days, 11 hours ago