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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-07-04 at 04:04
HEADLINES
1. Netanyahu Faces Urgent Pressure to Free Hostages
2. UK Courts Legally Approve F-35 Sales to Israel
3. Secret Saudi-U.S. Talks Signal Hidden Diplomatic Moves
The time is now 12:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
Today’s top developments reveal a complex and volatile picture across the Middle East and beyond. In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting pressure to prioritize the safe return of hostages taken by Hamas, with calls emphasizing that securing their release must be a strategic and immediate goal. Editorial voices underscore that the ongoing military campaign in Gaza, while aiming to weaken Hamas, risks escalating casualties and prolonging suffering, both for Israeli soldiers and the civilian population.
Veteran journalist Dan Perry warns that the current conflict offers limited benefits and may lead to a rising tide of catastrophe, highlighting concerns over the increasing danger to hostages and soldiers alike. Meanwhile, Israel’s domestic efforts include strengthening war-hit communities through new housing subsidies and development projects in seven towns, aiming to bolster resilience amid ongoing hostilities.
Internationally, the United Kingdom’s Supreme Court has affirmed the legality of the sale of F-35 military parts to Israel, emphasizing that export decisions rest with the government to maintain trust with allies. Concurrently, the UK government is moving to designate Palestine Action as a terrorist organization, reflecting heightened tensions surrounding pro-Palestinian activism.
In diplomatic circles, Israeli officials and analysts are discussing potential negotiations with Hamas. Former ambassador Michael Oren warns that once Israeli forces withdraw, re-entry could prove difficult, underscoring the delicate balance of security and diplomacy. Some voices suggest that a ceasefire could lead to Hamas leaders leaving Gaza, a move that could alter the current military landscape.
In Iran, authorities confirm that Tehran supports dialogue but demands assurances from Washington that military force will not be used during negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. The Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, states that cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency will now be managed solely through Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, following a break in direct communication.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump, speaking on the occasion of American Independence Day, claims recent military actions have successfully destroyed Iran’s nuclear facilities, supported by over thirty aerial refueling missions involving B-2 bombers. Trump also announced plans to build a “golden dome” to protect the United States from external threats, asserting that Iran’s nuclear program has been completely dismantled, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Adding to the regional tension, Saudi Arabia’s defense minister reportedly met secretly with President Trump in the United States to discuss Iran, possible Gaza negotiations, and the normalization of relations with Israel. This clandestine meeting signals ongoing behind-the-scenes diplomacy as regional powers navigate their interests amid the current crisis.
In other news, archaeologists in Peru have uncovered a 3,500-year-old city linking Pacific coast cultures with the Amazon, shedding light on ancient civilizations. Closer to home, Israel faces a heatwave with temperatures reaching up to 41 degrees Celsius, expected to persist into the coming week, impacting daily life and infrastructure.
Finally, in a tragic development, a missile strike in Ukraine resulted in the death of a family that had fled the conflict from Ukraine, seeking safety and medical aid. Memorial services were held to honor those lost, emphasizing the ongoing human toll of regional c
Published on 3 days, 14 hours ago