Episode Details

HEADLINES
Iran chemical weapons claims trigger global sanctions
DIA warns Iran space launch toward ICBM
Modi Medal provokes Knesset protests

The time is now 8:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In the conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, tensions and coverage move across a spectrum from satire to diplomacy and security posture as the region remains in focus. Eretz Nehederet, the long-running satirical show on Keshet 12, revived its Iran crisis skit with a line about Purim rain and the question of ballistic missiles, weaving in a mock State of the Union moment with a recreated Trump and Washington correspondent Barak Ravid. The sketch features Trump in a rambling aside about Nicki Minaj’s nails, then pivoting to the Iranian situation with a nod to the growing armada in the area. The segment illustrates how public dialogue frames the standoff through humor even as real-world tensions persist.

A US think tank has accused Tehran of using banned chemical agents during December protests and called for an international probe, as Washington tightens sanctions targeting Iran’s oil trade and its missile and drone networks ahead of Geneva talks.

An explainer on Trump’s State of the Union claims notes the former president suggested Iran is pursuing a nuclear weapon and has missiles that threaten Europe and US bases, while offering few specifics to back the assertions. The Defense Intelligence Agency is cited as saying Iran has space-launch vehicle capabilities that could support an intercontinental capability by 2035 if pursued, with Iranian state media coverage mentioned but not independently verified in the summary.

The CIA has posted new Farsi-language instructions on X and other platforms for Iranians wishing to securely contact the agency, part of a recruitment push that comes as Washington amasses forces in the Middle East and as Trump voices the possibility of action if talks over Tehran’s nuclear program fail. The postings advise readers to protect themselves, use disposable devices where possible, and avoid work computers or phones.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met in Geneva with his Omani counterpart and presented a draft proposal to the US delegation, though some officials remain skeptical that key points of contention can be smoothed over. This development unfolds as the United States bolsters its force posture in the CENTCOM area of responsibility.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, Ohana awards new Knesset 'highest honor' to Modi, opposition cries foul. The speaker of the Knesset presented Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the first-ever Medal of the Knesset during Modi’s historic address, a move that drew opposition protests as lawmakers boycotted the session and questioned the legality of the newly created decoration.

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/israel-news/culture/article-888027
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/s1qwnza00wl
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-888025
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/02/cia-launches-fresh-social-media-push-recruit-iranians-trump-threatens-military