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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-07-03 at 21:04
HEADLINES
Hamas Offers Hope in Hostage Negotiation Surge
Iran Reopens Airspace as Middle East Tensions Ignite
Israel Strengthens Resolve Amid Escalating Regional Conflict
The time is now 05:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
The security cabinet in Israel has convened to discuss reports indicating that Hamas has responded positively to a proposed hostage deal, with an official announcement expected in the coming hours. The deal, facilitated by Qatar and based on the Witkoff framework, proposes the release of ten hostages and 18 bodies over a 60-day ceasefire period. Hamas’s official stance remains unconfirmed, as their communication channels have not yet issued a statement on acceptance or rejection.
Meanwhile, tensions continue to escalate in the broader Middle East. Iran announced the reopening of its airspace for the entire country, a move seen as a strategic signal amid ongoing regional hostilities. Reports from Iraq indicate that a number of Iranian-backed militias launched a barrage of missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles targeting the American military base in Erbil, prompting alarms and defensive responses.
In Syria, a new presidential emblem has been introduced, replacing the previous eagle of the Ba’ath Party with three stars and fourteen feathers, symbolizing the country's regional divisions. This change reflects ongoing internal shifts within Syrian leadership.
The conflict has also extended into the airspace over Israel, with reports of a handful of drones launched by Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, some of which reportedly struck near military bases. Israel’s military has responded with measures aimed at reducing tensions and preventing further provocations.
In Gaza, the Israeli Defense Forces accuse Hamas of deliberately provoking soldiers and aid workers amid ongoing humanitarian efforts. Israel’s Foreign Ministry has dismissed allegations by Amnesty International, which has accused Israel of firing deliberately at civilians and using starvation as a weapon. The ministry countered by highlighting that over 3,000 aid trucks have successfully entered Gaza since May, delivering the equivalent of 56 million meals.
In diplomatic developments, the European Broadcasting Union has decided to postpone any immediate vote on removing Israel from the Eurovision Song Contest, with a decision deferred until their next meeting in winter. The international community remains closely watchful of the evolving situation.
On the domestic front, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the southern city of Ashkelon, praising the bravery of soldiers and civilians who have faced recent attacks. He emphasized that Israel’s strength lies in its resolve and spiritual resilience.
The United States continues to play a significant role. President Trump is expected to announce a hostage deal as early as Monday, with indirect talks between Israel and Hamas reportedly making progress. Some 35 families of hostages are urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to secure the full return of their loved ones.
Additionally, a report by UN rights expert Francesca Albanese has accused companies of profiting from the Israeli occupation and alleged genocide in Gaza, prompting sharp responses from Israel and several corporations, including Glencore and Maersk, who deny these claims.
In the broader context, regional leaders and military analysts note that recent Israeli successes against hostile factions are shifting perceptions in the Middle East, with some former adversaries now advocating for peace after decades of conflict. A Lebanese Druze leader, previously supportive of Hezbollah and Assad, publicly expressed support for peace, signifying potential shifts in regional attitudes.
Finally, amid ongoing violence, a 22-year-old man was injured in Haifa fr
Published on 3 days, 21 hours ago