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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-07-18 at 17:03
HEADLINES
Israel military intensifies preemptive stance against Hamas
Negotiations in Gaza near breakthrough amid Hamas resistance
IDF strikes Hamas leaders; Israel’s defenses outperform expectations
The time is now 01:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
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Good afternoon. Here is your latest update on the evolving situation in the Middle East and related global developments.
Israel continues to adopt a strategic posture reminiscent of a regional superpower, as it upgrades its military doctrine to emphasize preemptive measures and the downgrading of enemy capabilities. This approach reflects an assertive stance aimed at securing its borders and preventing threats before they materialize. Meanwhile, the Israeli government reports significant progress in ongoing negotiations in Doha with Hamas. Despite some advancements, key obstacles persist, notably Hamas's resistance to compromises on prisoner releases and a permanent ceasefire. Israeli officials emphasize that while progress has been made, Hamas's reluctance and their insistence on conditions that delay peace prospects remain a challenge.
In Gaza, negotiations are nearing a decision point, with Israel expressing readiness to continue diplomatic efforts. However, Hamas’s armed wing has signaled that if current talks fail, they may revert to demanding a comprehensive deal rather than settling for interim arrangements. The group has also reiterated its willingness to release hostages and has called for a final resolution that ends the conflict, although Israel maintains that disarmament and the expulsion of Hamas leaders are prerequisites for ending the war.
On the ground, Israeli military operations remain active. The IDF confirmed the killing of a Hamas commander involved in the October 7 attack, a significant blow to the organization's leadership. Additionally, Israeli forces, in joint efforts with the Shin Bet, eliminated Mahmoud Eshtein, a key Hamas battalion commander who was responsible for orchestrating numerous terror activities, including the deadly attack in October. Israeli defense systems, including Iron Dome, Arrow, and David’s Sling, have demonstrated their combat readiness and effectiveness during recent hostilities, exceeding expectations in defending against missile threats from Iran and its proxies.
The security situation in the region also involves complex internal and external tensions. In Syria, the Druze community of Sweida is reeling from recent violence, with reports of bodies, looted homes, and deep trauma following bloodshed. In Lebanon, Hezbollah has suffered significant losses at the hands of the IDF, and the Lebanese government is reportedly taking steps to expel the militant group from its territory. Meanwhile, in the West Bank, Palestinian Bedouins continue to face violent incidents, including a recent attack on sheep by Israeli settlers, which Palestinians claim is an attempt at displacement.
In addition, the broader geopolitical landscape is tense. China has formally lodged protests with the Philippines over recent maritime and security issues concerning Taiwan, reflecting ongoing regional rivalries. Closer to Israel, domestic political struggles continue, with the coalition government facing a crisis over a proposed Haredi draft law, threatening its stability amid mounting tensions within Israeli society.
Internationally, the United States Congress has issued a report suggesting that US funds may have indirectly supported protests against the Israeli government, raising questions about foreign influence and domestic political divisions. Meanwhile, in the United States, efforts are underway to modify tariffs on trade with the European Union, with President Donald Trump pushing for a minimum tariff range, signaling ongoing trade negotiations.
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Published on 11 hours ago