Episode Details

HEADLINES
Assad Sarin Munitions Found Prosecutions Possible
Hezbollah Strikes Kiryat Shmona Iron Dome Intercepts
Ethiopia Builds AI Sector via Israel Ties

The time is now 10:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In Regional Impacts, investigators say the recent discovery of Assad-era chemical weapons munitions and related materials could help authorities trace the military and security command structures that oversaw Syria’s chemical weapons program and support efforts to hold those responsible for war crimes accountable. Syrian authorities have detained 18 individuals suspected of involvement in operating and managing the program. A retired military affairs expert noted that finding munitions similar to those used in the Ghouta and Latamenah attacks could provide additional grounds for legal accountability and strengthen prosecutions related to chemical weapon use; a United Nations investigation in 2013 concluded there was clear and convincing evidence that Sarin gas was deployed in Ghouta. Separately, reports indicate that an Islamic territory was declared in Arbin, Damascus, under the leadership of Sheikh Abu Khaled, enforcing Sharia law and rejecting Syrian civil law, with the government having not yet issued clarifications.

In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, overnight a Hezbollah missile struck the city center of Kiryat Shmona as a barrage from Lebanon targeted Israel’s northern communities, with Iron Dome intercepting the remaining projectiles. The impact caused significant property damage to a shopping center, though there were no reported deaths or injuries. Local leadership criticized the government’s handling of the situation; the deputy mayor warned he could leave the Likud if conditions do not improve. Across the region, red alert sirens sounded in Northern Israel and, this weekend, there is non-stop rocket fire from Lebanon to northern Israel.

In Israeli Economy and Business, Start-Up Ethiopia: Addis Ababa takes a page from Israel’s innovation playbook, Ethiopia is looking to the Start-Up Nation model as it builds its own AI sector and strengthens technological cooperation. The Ethiopian relationship with Israel is described as very good and continuing to deepen despite regional instability, with emphasis on expanding collaboration in technology, investment, and innovation. Early foundations included Israeli assistance in military training and capacity-building, helping set the stage for a diverse partnership visible today as Ethiopia pursues a more tech-driven economy.

In Uplifting News, Amb. Huckabee honored at Yeshiva University, delivers commencement speech to grads. Mike Huckabee, the US Ambassador to Israel, received the Presidential Medallion, the university’s highest honor for global leadership. He was praised for his support of Israel and his efforts following October 7 to help free Israeli hostages. In his address, Huckabee encouraged graduates to view their diplomas as a call to service, underscoring Yeshiva University’s example of leadership and commitment.

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/middle-east/article-897790
https://t.me/hnaftali/23218
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-897788
https://t.me/StandWithUsBreakingNews/8200