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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-02-18 at 18:02

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-02-18 at 18:02

Published 1 week, 4 days ago
Description
HEADLINES
Iran talks and US force posture escalate
Rubio meets Netanyahu amid Iran talks
Israeli skater Seniuk advances to Olympic final

The time is now 6:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, Iran remains at the center of Washington's deliberations as diplomats press for a written proposal to resolve the standoff after Geneva talks and White House discussions. A senior US official said Iran is expected to submit a written proposal addressing US concerns, while top national security advisers in the White House Situation Room were told all US forces deployed to the region should be in place by mid-March. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel the weekend of February 28. The Geneva talks between US envoys and Iran's foreign minister aimed to avert a mounting crisis, with Washington seeking to broaden talks beyond nuclear issues to include Iran's missile stockpile. Tehran denies it seeks a weapon, but the United States continues to press for a dismantling of Iran's nuclear program. Military posturing reflects the tension: assets in the region including fighters, ships, submarines and carriers could enable thousands of sorties and long-range strikes. Some reports indicate the United States is likely to strike Iran, but the president has not yet decided on a final course of action, and Israeli officials warn the window for a deal may be closing. The situation remains fluid as diplomacy and deterrence shape the coming days.

In Uplifting News, Crowd boost helps Israeli figure skater Mariia Seniuk advance to Olympic final. The four-time national champion, who was born in Moscow and began her career in Russia before competing for Israel since 2019, drew a warm reception from the Milan audience as she advanced to the free skate by finishing the short program in 22nd place. Seniuk carried Israel's flag at the opening ceremony, where the crowd's cheers balanced with occasional boos as she acknowledged the atmosphere. She said she is grateful for the support and for the people who held the flag.

Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.
I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.
Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-887172
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1286571
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/r1119ihm00wl
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-887167
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/02/iran-expected-submit-written-proposal-resolving-standoff-us-senior-us-official
https://www.israelhayom.com/2026/02/19/israeli-officials-us-action-against-iran-could-come-within-days/
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1286567
https://t.me/DefenderDome/18111
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/artic
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