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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-10-12 at 21:05
HEADLINES
Hostage release begins across three Gaza sites
Trump frames region trip as peace milestone
Netanyahu taps Askal to lead AI directorate
The time is now 5:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
This is a news update at five o’clock in the afternoon. A United States brokered ceasefire aimed at ending the current round of fighting between Israel and Hamas remains in place, with hostages at the center of the pause. In Gaza, the Israeli military says the first stage of the hostage release is expected to unfold in the morning hours, with hostages anticipated from three locations: Gaza City, central Gaza, and Khan Yunis in the south. The plan envisions the hostages being handed over to Red Cross representatives after initial medical checks at a staging area, then flown to hospitals for treatment.
Officials have stressed that this is a highly choreographed process, designed to reduce casualties and create space for negotiations to proceed. In the background, the Red Cross says it has engaged with some of the hostages as part of the ongoing process, while Israeli officials have cautioned that not every medical detail has been verified publicly and that information on the health of all captives remains closely held as the operation unfolds. Despite the careful timing, there are competing messages from the sides. A senior Hamas figure has accused Israel of altering prisoner lists under the deal and warned that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could push the Gaza conflict back into open war if the terms are perceived to be violated. Israeli officials have insisted the agreement remains in force and that security objectives—undermining Hamas capabilities and safeguarding Israeli communities—remain intact.
The current mood in Israel is one of cautious optimism mixed with vigilance. Prime Minister Netanyahu has spoken to the nation in advance of what is expected to be a tightly managed release, underscoring that the security of Israeli citizens remains the overarching priority. At the same time, the broader political dynamic continues to shape the moment. In Washington, President Donald Trump is traveling in the region and has framed the moment as a major diplomatic milestone. Before boarding Air Force One, he told reporters that the scene in Israel and across Arab and Muslim communities is a powerful sign of what can be achieved when nations choose cooperation over conflict. Officials described a collective sense that the deal could redefine relationships in the Middle East if the hostage issue is resolved and a measure of stability is restored.
The Trump administration has emphasized a policy stance described as pursuing peace through strength, working closely with Israel to advance security and regional stability. Trump has argued that strong partnerships and clear security commitments can open doors to broader diplomacy, while keeping a firm line against those who threaten Israel’s safety. His presence in the region signals to allies that Washington is deeply invested in the ceasefire’s durability, while critics warn that any misstep by either side could quickly unravel the accord.
Among domestic Israeli developments, Prime Minister Netanyahu has announced the appointment of Brigadier General (retired) Erez Askal to lead Israel’s new National Artificial Intelligence Directorate. The move is described as part of a broader effort to position Israel at the forefront of artificial intelligence technology, while also ensuring alignment with national cyber and security aims. Critics say the overlap between advanced technology initiatives and security priorities will require careful governance, but supporters argue the step signals a long-term strategic edge for Israel.
On the ground, Israeli forces and Gaza-based authorities remain anchored by the timetable of the ceasefire and hostage release.
Published on 3 weeks, 3 days ago