Podcast Episode Details

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-10-25 at 17:07

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HEADLINES
- Jerusalem Post calls US-led UN defunding
- Trump meets Qatar emir amid hostage talks
- Israel kills Hezbollah commander tied to tunnels

The time is now 1:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

This is 1:00 PM. From Jerusalem to New York, the day’s events trace a history of shifting alliances, persistent security concerns, and ongoing humanitarian questions that matter to people around the world.

An opinion piece published by the Jerusalem Post argues that a rethinking of United Nations participation is needed to confront what its author describes as persistent bias against Israel and anti-American sentiment. The piece calls for the United States to lead a global process to defund the United Nations and to establish a new, fairer institution. Readers should note that this expresses a viewpoint rather than a policy announcement, and it reflects a broader debate about how international bodies address security and human rights concerns in the region.

In Washington and across allied capitals, diplomatic activity continues as the administration seeks momentum on hostage negotiations and Gaza stability. President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet Qatar’s emir and prime minister during a refueling stop en route to Asia, with discussions anticipated aboard Air Force One alongside senior officials including the Secretary of State. The talks underscore Washington’s effort to coordinate with mediators in the region as it weighs steps to secure the return of hostages and to plan a course toward Gaza’s long-term stability.

Within the Jewish community abroad, a debate persists over how political rhetoric regarding Israel affects safety and unity. A wave of rabbis signing letters critical of certain lines of political rhetoric has drawn responses from leaders who warn against allowing bipartisan disagreements to fracture communal solidarity at a time of security challenges. The discussions reflect the broader concern among Jewish communities that public discourse around Israel and its policies can influence attitudes and, in some cases, safety in diverse cities around the world.

Cultural life and daily rhythms continue alongside heavy news. A feature on planning a synagogue Kiddush offers ideas on making a communal gathering memorable, a reminder of how religious and cultural life persists alongside ongoing security issues in the region.

In Europe and the Middle East, various developments touch on both policy and public sentiment. An anti-Israel group in Germany has called for the arrest of an Israeli-Dream national over social media posts from military service in Gaza, illustrating how accusations of wrongdoing can travel across borders and influence perceptions of the conflict. In the United Kingdom, a court case linked to individuals associated with extremist causes has drawn attention to the way fear and radicalism intersect with local communities.

On the security front, Israeli forces announced the elimination of a Hezbollah commander tied to efforts to rebuild terror infrastructure in southern Lebanon. The operation is framed as part of a broader campaign to disrupt militant capacities along Israel’s northern frontier, with a continued emphasis on preventing threats to soldiers and civilians in nearby communities.

Travel and history offer a different lens on the region’s culture and resilience. A feature on Jewish Rhodes describes how signs, menus, and businesses in Greek Rhodes create an atmosphere reminiscent of home for many visitors, underscoring the enduring links between Jewish history and Mediterranean life.

Egyptian teams have entered Gaza to assist in locating remains of hostages believed killed or missing in the conflict. An Israeli official notes that while remains of hostages may yet be recovered, the situation remains uncertain. The engagem

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Published on 1 week, 3 days ago