Although there are still over two years left in the term of the current Knesset, there are many analysts who believe elections will be held earlier than that, possibly as soon as the Spring of 2025. Polls published this week by the highly respected Kantar Institute think tank showed that National Unity leader MK Benny Gantz is considered the most suitable candidate to be the next Prime Minister of Isreal by a majority of voters.

Polls show Israel's leadership race tightening

Other centrist parties including Yesh Atid and Yisrael Beytenu are also shown as gaining support in these polls, while the Likud Party led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is slipping although it still has a large amount of support.

Some of the smaller parties in the current Knesset have seen their support drop considerably, while others have held steady or made slight gains.

News

The US State Department announced on Thursday that it is approving a $165 million sale of heavy-duty tank trailers to the IDF. Meanwhile, the Biden administration approved the transfer of its full $1.3 billion in annual military aid this week, despite growing concerns about human rights violations by the el-Sissi regime which rules Egypt.

US Approves Sale of Tank Trailers to IDF, Aid to Egypt

The US State Department announced on Thursday that it is approving a $165 million sale of heavy-duty tank trailers to the IDF. The trailers, needed to transport tanks and other heavy equipment at higher speeds than the tanks can move by their own power while avoiding damaging highways, will be delivered to Israel by the end of 2027.

Meanwhile, the Biden administration approved the transfer of its full $1.3 billion in annual military aid this week, despite growing concerns about human rights violations by the el-Sissi regime which rules Egypt.

“The United States is also continuing a rigorous dialogue with the Egyptian government on the importance of concrete human rights improvements that are crucial to sustaining the strongest possible US-Egypt partnership,” the State Department said.

The Iranian-backed Lebanese terrorist group Hezbollah fired a barrage of 20 rockets at the northern Israeli city of Safed at 1 AM on Friday morning, causing some damage to a building in the nearby village of Dalton and starting a large fire in the Birya Forest, north of Safed. Hezbollah claimed to have directed their fire at a nearby military base, the latest instance where they make such a claim after causing damage to civilian areas.

Hezbollah Rocket Fire Sparks Large Blaze in the Galilee

The Israel Fire and Rescue service, asssisted by local volunteers, managed to get the forest fire under control by 7AM, according to a statement.

Situated some 13 kilometers south of the border, Safed's approximately 38,000 residents have not evacuated their homes as residents of communities closer to the border have.

Hezbollah fired over 100 rockets into northern Israel on Wednesday and Thursday, while the IDF struck Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, including rocket launchers and individual Hezbollah operatives.

The Pentagon announced this week that it is bringing the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier and its attending battle group home following an extended deployment in the Middle East alongside the USS Abraham Lincoln battle group.

USS Theodore Roosevelt Exiting Middle East Waters

The Pentagon announced this week that it is bringing the USS Theadore Roosevelt aircraft carrier and its attending battle group home following an extended deployment in the Middle East alongside the USS Abraham Lincoln battle group. The two CBG's were deployed together in the region in an unusual move over recent weeks to deter Iran and its proxies from attacking Israel and/or US troops deployed in the region.

Several other US and British warships, aircraft and special operations troops remain deployed around the Middle East on counter-terrorism, deterrance and peacekeeping missions.

The US Department of State has announced this week that it is leveling new sanctions on Iran's aviation industry over the delivery of ballistic missiles to Russia for use against Ukraine.

US Issues New Sanctions on Iran Over Missile Delivery to Russia

The US Department of State has announced this week that it is leveling new sanctions on Iran's aviation industry over the delivery of ballistic missiles to Russia for use against Ukraine. Alongside the US, Britain, France and Germany also announced that Iran Air, the national air carrier of Iran which is suspected of allowing its planes to be used for the delivery of weapons to Russia, will no longer be allowed to use their airspace or land at their airports.

The State Department imposed additional sanctions on two shipping companies based in Russia which have been involved in transporting weapons from Iran via the Caspian Sea.

Israeli analysts were closely watching events in neighboring Jordan this week as elections there resulted in significant shifts in the 138-seat parliament in Amman. Islamist parties, including the Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated Islamist Action Front picked up seats in the assembly, although factions loyal to the monarchy and tribal elements are poised to continue in the majority.

Islamist Parties Make Gains In Jordanian Elections

"The Jordanian people have given us their trust by voting for us. This new phase will increase the party's responsibility towards the nation and our citizens," Wael al Saqqa, head of the IAF, told Reuters.

Although Jordan is still a monarchy with the King holding most of the levers of power, parliament plays a role in managing the economy and other domestic affairs. The rise in popularity of the IAF and other Islamist factions is also an indication of the cultural atmosphere in the country.

The Assad regime in Syria sent foreign minister Faisal Mekdad to the UAE in recent days where he gave an interview with the Al-Ain media portal regarding the regime's emerging regional policy following over a decade of civil war.

Syria's Assad Regime Gaining Traction Regionally

The Assad regime in Syria sent foreign minister Faisal Mekdad to the UAE in recent days where he gave an interview with the Al-Ain media portal regarding the regime's emerging regional policy following over a decade of civil war. The regime was recently re-admitted to the Arab League despite not having operational control of all the territory of Syria and several million of its citizens living outside the country as refugees in neighboring Turkey and elsewhere, including European countries.

The report in Al-Ain included a statement by Mekdad that "Arab countries must shoulder their responsibilities by preventing the expansion of the Israeli war, whether on Palestinian lands or outside them, noting that this matter appeared clear during the recent meeting of Arab foreign ministers to confront the dangerous developments on the Palestinian, Lebanese and Syrian arenas.”

He also spoke at length on the subject of the regime's relations with Turkey, which has deployed troops on Syrian soil, claiming that it is necassary to keep Kurdish factions from using that territory to launch terrorist attacks inside Turkey.

"Ankara is interested in eliminating terrorism and the return of Syrian refugees, and we add to them the withdrawal from Syrian territory and the elimination of armed organizations,” Mekdad said.

The Arab League is taking many steps to reassert itself following the Arab Spring and the accompanying Syrian Civil War, the rise and fall of the Islamic State terrorist group, the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises which rocked the region in recent years. Arab countries and the League itself struggled to influence the course of these events, while non-Arab regional powers including Iran, Turkey and Israel exerted considerable influence on all of them.

Syria and Israel are two issues that have continued to sharply divide members of the Arab League, with some countries wanting to improve relations with one or both countries and others fiercely opposing this for different reasons.

Non-regional powers including the US, European countries, Russia, China and increasingly India are also working with their local partners and allies to move the agenda in different directions, often at cross purposes. The Arab League has long struggled to balance the competing interests of its constituent members.

According to a report in the news portal Axios on Thursday, the IDF's General Staff Reconnaissance Unit, one of the most elite commando units in the world, carried out an operation in Syria last Sunday to destroy an underground factory for precision missiles built by Iran. According to analysts quoted in the report, this is a serious blow to the Iranian project to arm Hezbollah and other regional proxies with precision guided missiles.

Report: IDF Special Forces Destroy Iranian Missile Factory in Syria

The Israeli goverment is adopting its usual policy of neither confirming or denying it carried out the operation.

However, the report in Axios, and widespread coverage of these events in other media portals, indicates that the General Staff Reconnaissance Unit approached their target under the cover of heavy air strikes carried out by fixed wing aircraft on various targets in western Syria, including near the city of Masyaf, close to the Lebanese border.

Rappelling to the ground from helicopters, the commandos then overwhelmed the Syrian Army forces guarding the facility before penetrating to its subterrenean levels, taking possesion of intelligence materials and then placing explosives to destroy the facility, which housed advanced, precision machinery, computers and other specialized equipment for the production of precision guided missiles.

The Axios report went on to explain that Iran, in cooperation with Hezbollah, began to build this facility inside a mountain in Masyaf in 2018, after an Israeli airstrike destroyed most of their above-ground missile production capacity in Syria. Their plan was to build the factory close to the Lebanese border in order to have a short line of supply to Hezbollah.

Israel's national water carrier, Mekorot, announced this week that it will invest several hundred million shekels in building infrastructure to supply water to the southern regions of the country, including the vast Negev Desert region and the Gaza envelope.

Israeli Water Company to Double Supply to the Negev

Israel's national water carrier, Mekorot, announced this week that it will invest several hundred million shekels in building infrastructure to supply water to the southern regions of the country, including the vast Negev Desert region and the Gaza envelope. Company officials toured the region this week alongside Energy and National Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen and Government Companies Minister David Amsalem, telling reporters that the new project will be launched as soon as the regulatory approval process is completed and should be finished by 2030.

The network of pipes, pumping stations, wastewater treatment facilities and rainwater collection infrastructure will span around 30 kilomters in legnth and when completed, it is projected to increase the supply of potable and recycled water to 360-370 million cubic meters annually. This will more than double the amount of water currently supplied to communities in the region.

The plan is part of a larger set of initiatives by the government to encourage agricultural development in Israel.

The State Prosecutor conducting investigations into Case 3000, also known as "the Submarine Affair" announced on Wednesday that they will not open a criminal investigation the possible involvement of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in unlawful practices related to the purchase of submarines for the Israeli Navy.

Charges Against Netanyahu in Submarine Affair Dismissed

The State Prosecutor conducting investigations into Case 3000, also known as "the Submarine Affair" announced on Wednesday that they will not open a criminal investigation the possible involvement of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in unlawful practices related to the purchase of submarines for the Israeli Navy. 

This comes in spite of a letter sent by the State Inquiry Committee in June which stated that "Mr. Netanyahu's conduct in the matters under investigation by the committee resulted in wide-reaching and systematic disruption in work processes, power structure, and harm to decision-making mechanisms in a number of sensitive issues. This therefore endangered national security and harmed the foreign relations and economic interests of the State of Israel."

"There is nothing in the warning letter from the Inquiry Committee itself that would lead us to change our decision not to investigate the Prime Minister within the framework of the criminal case regarding the submarines," declared attorney Yaron Golomb from the Taxation and Economics Prosecution Office in Tel Aviv.

Several NGOs and prominent individuals in Israel's legal community have been pressing for the State Prosecutor to procede with the matter, but now that the State Prosecutor has made a decision not to, there are limited options to pressure them to change this decision.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu is still facing the possability of prosecution in several other ongoing investigations.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the Jordan Valley today (Wednesday), three days after the deadly Allenby Crossing attack, pledging to reinforce Israel’s security along its eastern border with Jordan. Netanyahu emphasized the importance of maintaining this frontier as a "border of peace and security" while also committing to taking stronger action against weapons smuggling into Judea and Samaria.

Netanyahu Visits Jordan Border, Vows to Prevent Smuggling with Strong Barrier

During his visit, Netanyahu was accompanied by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who has backed the allocation of funds in the 2025 state budget for constructing a barrier that will effectively curb illegal crossings and smuggling attempts. “We are committed to securing this border, and in coordination with Jordan, we will ensure that it remains a border of peace,” Netanyahu declared.

The Prime Minister met with combat soldiers from the Jordan Lions Battalion, Kfir Brigade, and other security units, as he reiterated Israel's dedication to tackling multi-front threats. "We're in a multi-front battle. Unfortunately, we lost two soldiers today in Rafah. We send heartfelt condolences to their families," Netanyahu said. He further added that the recent surge in smuggling attempts poses new challenges, with terrorists and weapons being smuggled from Jordan into Israeli cities.

Netanyahu's visit comes at a time when security concerns are escalating, particularly with Iran's growing influence in Jordan. Iranian forces, including the Quds Force, are suspected of involvement in the Alenby attack, where a Jordanian truck driver killed three Israelis. As King Abdullah juggles widespread anti-Israel protests with ongoing security cooperation with Israel, Netanyahu made clear that Israel remains focused on addressing the Iranian threat in the region.

Jordan is a key buffer zone for Israel, with its 308 km border offering a strategic line of defense. Iran's desire to gain influence in Jordan, along with its established footholds in Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon via Hezbollah, poses a significant risk to Israel's security. Netanyahu highlighted this during his remarks, emphasizing the importance of the border's stability and calling attention to Iran's potential involvement in the Alenby attack.

Despite the political tension in Jordan, which includes members of parliament openly supporting the attacker, Israel remains committed to security cooperation with Jordan's forces, focusing on preventing Iranian-backed threats from destabilizing the region.

As part of this effort, Netanyahu confirmed that additional measures will be taken to bolster the Jordan border, ensuring it remains both a border of peace and robust defense against external threats.

Despite the difficult conditions that exist in the Gaza Strip, the United Nations has led a successful campaign to provide polio vaccinations to children there. On Tuesday, the last phase of the campaign was underway to vaccinate approximately 200,000 children in northern Gaza. About 446,000 children have already been vaccinated in southern and central Gaza.

UN's Polio Vaccination Campaign Progressing in Gaza

However, some aid workers complained of logistical problems which are making this final phase more difficult.

“The centralization of services in the south makes it extremely difficult for us to get fuel, to get access to vaccinations, and to all other logistics,” Mahmoud Shalabi of Medical Aid for Palestinians, a UK-based charity, told Reuters via a spokesperson. “There is still no fuel for the movement of vehicles for vaccination teams in the north.”

A second phase of vaccinations will be necessary next month.

The Israeli Natural Gas Trade Association’s 2024 report was released this week by the economic consulting firm BDO. It shows, among other things, that the Jewish State is the largest energy supplier in the Eastern Mediterranean and leads OECD countries in the preservation of natural gas for future use. Furthermore, the level of natural gas production in Israel rose significantly over 2023 but so did the level of natural gas reserves estimated to still be available for exploitation.

Israel's Natural Gas Industry Offers Many Benefits

Israel's domestic natural gas production has produced many benefits, including stable energy prices throughout the last year which has otherwise seen instability in many other areas. By contrast, energy prices have risen sharply in Europe over the past year as the supply of natural gas from traditional sources in Eastern Europe fluxuated due to the war between Russia and Ukraine. Israel has become an important supplier to the European market for this reason, further strengthening its economic and diplomatic ties with several countries.

The report also listed some of the benefits to Israeli households, including an average monthly saving of NIS 1,000 due to reduced electricity prices, adding up to national savings of nearly NIS 425 billion. To this can be added the creation of a substantial number of jobs in the Israeli economy, as well as investment opportunities.

The report also listed an improvement in air quality in Israel, as burning natural gas to produce electricity results in far less air pollution than other methods. This leads to improved quality of life as well as reduced health care costs.

Last night, Israeli Air Force jets struck Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, including Al-Jabin, Al-Naqoura, Deir Sirin, and Zebqin. Around 30 rocket launchers and military infrastructure sites were destroyed, which posed a direct threat to Israeli civilians. Simultaneously, IDF artillery forces targeted Hezbollah positions in Al-Dahira.

Massive Damage from IDF Airstrikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon

The strikes follow days of heavy bombardment, with the IDF conducting over 100 attacks since last Wednesday. Israeli security forces have inflicted severe damage on Hezbollah’s weaponry and infrastructure. Critically, the IDF has crippled Hezbollah’s command and control systems, dealing a blow to the group's ability to function effectively on the ground.

Among the estimated 600 Hezbollah casualties, a significant number are high-ranking commanders responsible for logistics, arms smuggling, finances, and technical operations. Israeli officials report that the damage has disrupted the flow of orders from Hezbollah’s leader Hassan Nasrallah down to field operatives, leaving the organization scrambling to maintain operational stability.

Hezbollah’s recent failed attacks on Israeli cities, including the deadly strikes on Majdal Shams and Kiryat Shmona, have only further exposed its weakening capabilities. With strikes intensifying, the terror group faces increasing pressure both on the battlefield and internally as it struggles to respond.

Early Wednesday morning, an IDF helicopter crashed in Rafah, leaving two soldiers dead and seven others injured, four of them seriously. The helicopter was on a mission to rescue a wounded soldier from the elite Unit 669 when it crashed under circumstances that are still being investigated. However, the IDF has said that the aircraft was not shot down by enemy forces.

IDF Helicopter crashes in Rafah, killing two soldiers

Meanwhile, the IDF was responding to an attempted terrorist ramming attack near the Givat Assaf Junction adjacent to the community of Beit El, north of Jerusalem in Samaria.

Magen David Adom paramedics responded to the incident, in which a tanker truck carrying gas collided with a bus station, resulting in one individual being severely injured.

In another tragic incident of terror, Sgt. Garry Gideon Neghaal, a 24-year-old soldier from Nof HaGalil, was killed this morning (Wednesday) in a car-ramming attack at Asaf Junction, located on Highway 60 in the Binyamin region. Neghaal, a soldier in the Nachshon Battalion of the Kfir Brigade, was struck by a gas truck. The driver, who was identified as the terrorist, was neutralized on the scene by IDF forces.

Sgt. Garry Gideon Neghaal Killed in Terrorist Ramming Attack at Asaf Junction

According to reports from the IDF, the attack occurred when a truck rammed into a group of soldiers standing at the junction. Paramedics from Magen David Adom (MDA) quickly arrived at the scene, where they found Neghaal severely injured with multiple trauma injuries. Despite efforts to save his life, Neghaal tragically passed away. 

Basmat Lubiner, a paramedic at the scene, said: "We arrived quickly and saw a gas tanker that had collided with a bus stop. A young man, about 20 years old, was lying next to it, unconscious, suffering from severe trauma."

Following the attack, IDF and Border Police forces moved swiftly to secure the area, conducting roadblocks and searches. Security forces also moved to map the terrorist's home for potential demolition.

This attack comes just days after three Israelis were killed in another terror attack at the Alenby Crossing in the Jordan Valley. In that incident, a terrorist opened fire in the cargo inspection area, killing Adrian Marcello Podsamser, 65-year-old Yuri Birnbaum, and Yochanan Shchori.

As the wave of terrorism continues to escalate across Israel, security forces remain on high alert in several regions, especially in Judea and Samaria. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to increase security measures in response to the recent attacks, including bolstering defensive actions and working closely with neighboring Jordan to ensure border security.

The IDF continues its efforts to secure the region and prevent further attacks, with a focus on dismantling terror networks and preventing weapons smuggling across the border.

In a dramatic escalation of hostilities in northern Israel, over 70 rockets were fired towards Israeli towns on Wednesday afternoon. Among the areas targeted were regions where residents remain, attempting to carry on their daily lives amidst ongoing rocket fire.

70 Rockets Strike Northern Israel

In a dramatic escalation of hostilities in northern Israel, over 70 rockets were fired towards Israeli towns on Wednesday afternoon. Among the areas targeted were regions where residents remain, attempting to carry on their daily lives amidst ongoing rocket fire. 

One of the most significant attacks involved an anti-tank missile striking Kibbutz Dan, seriously injuring a 39-year-old member of the local security team. He was airlifted to Rambam Hospital in Haifa, where he remains in serious but stable condition.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) responded swiftly to the barrage, launching multiple airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. According to IDF reports, Hezbollah had been using rocket launchers in the areas of Maroun al-Ras and Ras al-Naqoura, which were neutralized by precision strikes. Additionally, artillery units pounded other Hezbollah positions across the southern region of Lebanon, including Aynata and Aytaroun.

The escalation comes as residents in the Galilee region express frustration with the government’s response. 

"The government must wake up. It's not enough to talk, we need real action to restore security and ensure that evacuated residents can return home," said Giora Zeltz, head of the Upper Galilee Regional Council.

Israeli officials have noted that while the north is under increasing pressure, the IDF continues to operate efficiently, hitting key Hezbollah targets. In response, Hezbollah's Al-Manar television reported the deaths of several of their fighters, including Ali Hassan Abd Ali, marking the 436th Hezbollah casualty since the start of the war.

The situation remains volatile, with the IDF reinforcing its presence in the north while preparing for potential further escalations with Hezbollah.

The Office of the President of South Africa issued a statement on Tuesday declaring that it would not withdraw its lawsuit against Israel at the International Court of Justice in the Hague on the grounds of genocide. This announcement came after reports surfaced that South Africa is seeking to extend a deadline to submit evidence to the Court supporting its accusations, which is coming up on October 28th.

South Africa Vows to Forge Ahead with ICJ Suit Against Israel

The South African president's office said in a statement, "We will provide facts and evidence that will prove that Israel is committing genocide in Palestine. The legal process will continue until the court rules on the matter. We hope that during the legal process, Israel will implement the temporary orders issued by the court."

The statement also denied that South Africa has been asked by any other government to withdraw the lawsuit, despite reports in various news portals that such requests have been made.

In a related story, Sheikh Riad Fataar, president of South Africa’s Muslim Judicial Council (MJC), gave a speech in Cape Town last week in which he said, among other things, “I am Hamas, Cape Town is Hamas. Viva Hamas Viva! ...We support Hamas because Hamas follows the Aayah [verse] in the holy Quran...: ‘Fight those who fight you.’”

During the speech, he also took time to repudiate Jesus' command to "turn the other cheek" by saying that “You slap me – I slap you back!”

Chief Rabbi of South Africa, Warren Goldstein issued a statement saying “This disturbing support for a brutal terror organization is not isolated to the MJC. It is part of a concerted effort to radicalize many stakeholders in South Africa, including the mainstream media, academia, and government. This radicalization takes the form of stigmatizing Israel by the false accusations of genocide and the moral equivalence between Hamas, a murderous terror organization, and Israel, a free democracy fighting for its life within the ethics of international law."

“This campaign has been effective which is why the open support of Hamas by the MJC is only being raised as an issue by the Jewish Report. None of the other media consider it objectionable or even noteworthy. The MJC statement is also a timely reminder for law enforcement to investigate the allegations raised by global media on how funds raised by the MJC and others for Hamas, have been banked and transferred from South Africa via local banks to Hamas, an organization on global terror lists.”

Other South African Jewish leaders issued similar statements.

Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-Lung gave an interview to the The Jerusalem Post newspaper this week, saying that His country and Israel have many strategic interests in common.

Taiwan's Foreign Minister: Israel and Taiwan Are Natural Allies

“For Taiwan’s relations with Israel, intelligence exchanges are a must, and technology cooperation is very important between the two countries, especially technology related to national defense and security,” Lin declared. 

“When it comes to the Middle East’s issues and Taiwan’s relations with Israel, simply put we are now seeing a very clear manifestation of the ‘Axis of Evil’ or CRINK – China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea,” Lin told the Post.

“All of these countries are located on the Eurasian continent, so they are even more interconnected than ever before. They are using all sorts of international mechanisms, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization framework, BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), or the Global South framework, to build up their cooperation and their dependence on each other, and this trend is very obvious.

“This is why I believe that Taiwan is not alone,” Lin declared. “All countries are facing a similar issue. With our interconnectedness of economies, Taiwan can better support our values-based diplomacy.”

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant today (Wednesday) revealed an internal letter from a senior Hamas commander to the organization's leader Yahya Sinwar. The letter paints a dire picture of Hamas’ collapsing military capabilities and declining support from within Gaza.

Gallant Unveils Hamas Struggles: "95% of Our Rockets Are Gone"

Gallant disclosed the letter during a visit to the IDF’s intelligence division, where he shared the contents: "This letter, written by Rafi Salama—who was eliminated by us in July—outlines that 95% of their rockets have been destroyed, and 50% of their fighters are either dead or injured. They are left with 20% of their original strength. The Hamas leadership can no longer support their troops."

The letter goes on to state, "Our people are broken, both mentally and physically. They no longer tolerate us." This message underscores the deteriorating state of the terrorist organization as Israel's operations continue to weaken their infrastructure.

Salama’s plea to Sinwar concludes with a cry for help, yet Gallant affirms that Hamas’ leaders are incapable of providing any aid. “We will continue our efforts, step by step, until we reach all of Hamas' top leaders,” Gallant added, signaling the IDF’s ongoing mission to dismantle the organization.

This revelation comes as Israel maintains its resolve to eliminate Hamas’ capabilities and ensure the security of its citizens.

The Jerusalem District Court issued a ruling on Monday that the Palestinian Authority must pay NIS 3 million to three Palestinian individuals who were arrested and tortured because they helped Israel prevent terrorist attacks. According to the plaintiffs, they were held for four years and subjected to severe abuse including torture and sexual abuse.

Jerusalem Court Rules PA Must Pay Damages for Torture of Detainees

The ruling includes the statement that "The Israeli courts should not echo a Palestinian narrative that is contrary to public policy in Israel. The Palestinian Authority is entitled to protect its security and act against spies and collaborators, as long as this does not harm Israel's security interests, which left security responsibility in [the PA]'s hands."

This week's ruling is based on a 2021 High Court of Justice ruling that states: "It is hard to believe that the Israeli courts would recognize a defense that cooperation with Israel is an act of treason in favor of the Israeli enemy, and it must be fought against. What's more, those acts of 'treason' were intended to prevent acts of terrorism against Israel and against Israelis, which the Palestinian Authority pledged to prevent in the interim agreement."

The Iranian-backed Lebanese terrorist organization Hezbollah announced on Tuesday that another of its senior field commanders had been assassinated. This time it was  Muhammad Qassem al-Shaer, who was eliminated by an IDF drone strike in the Western Beqaa District.

Hezbollah Acknowledges Loss of Another Senior Commander

Although Hezbollah did not admit it, al-Shaer was known to be a field commander in the elite Radwan Force, whose role was to plan and execute attacks on Galilee communities similar to the kind Hamas carried out on Negev communities on October 7th, 2023.

This brings the total of operatives Hezbollah has admitted to losing over the past 11 months to 434, with Israeli intelligence estimating that the actual number is even higher. A large percentage of the casualties Hezbollah has suffered have been among their most highly trained and experienced operatives.

The IDF had no comment on the reports of the strike.

The IDF has mapped the home of Jafar Muna, the terrorist responsible for last month's Tel Aviv bombing, as part of preparations for its possible demolition. This comes amid ongoing security operations across the West Bank.

IDF Maps Tel Aviv Bomber’s Home; Suspects Arrested in West Bank Operations

In Qalandiya, four suspects were arrested, with security forces seizing ammunition and military equipment. In Bani Na’im, the elite Duvdevan Unit detained two suspects, confiscating an M16 rifle. Meanwhile, in Al-Arroub, forces fired at a terrorist throwing Molotov cocktails. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the security personnel.

These arrests and operations are part of Israel’s continuous efforts to combat terrorism and maintain security in the region. The IDF remains committed to neutralizing threats and protecting its citizens.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are dealing with an increasingly complex security challenge along the borders with Egypt and Jordan. In recent weeks, smugglers have begun using drones to transport goods across the border without exposing themselves to the usual risks. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are operated from both sides of the border, with smugglers sending drones over to deliver contraband, which is then picked up by ground vehicles on the other side.

IDF Confronts Drone Smuggling on Egypt and Jordan Borders

Though the IDF currently believes that these drones are primarily being used for drug smuggling, there is growing concern that they could soon be employed to transport more dangerous items such as explosives or weapons. The sophistication of the smuggling operations has increased significantly, with drones capable of carrying heavier loads and equipped with GPS jamming devices to avoid detection.

A recent incident on the Israel-Egypt border highlighted the severity of this threat. A Caracal Battalion officer was injured when a suspected smuggler attempted to run him over near Bnei Netzarim after being stopped for a security check. The smuggler escaped, but a drone and communication equipment were recovered from the scene, raising further concerns that the drone was part of a larger smuggling operation.

The IDF has responded by deploying advanced technologies aimed at disrupting drone operations, though smugglers continue to evolve their methods. Security forces are now tasked with tracking drones across more remote sections of the border, where airspace monitoring is more challenging. 

While Israel has long dealt with smuggling along its borders, the use of drones presents a new challenge. The fear is that if left unchecked, these drones could become a tool for smuggling weapons to terror groups, potentially escalating the security threat in the region. 

Efforts are now being made to develop more advanced countermeasures to deal with drone smuggling, while also coordinating with neighboring countries like Egypt and Jordan to crack down on these criminal activities. 

This challenge isn’t limited to Israel’s borders, however. In June 2023, Jordanian military forces shot down a drone smuggling drugs from Syria, signaling that this is becoming a widespread issue in the region.

In parallel, diplomatic efforts are underway to strengthen cooperation between Egypt and Israel on border security, particularly concerning Gaza. U.S. officials have reportedly been working to fund monitoring mechanisms along the Egypt-Gaza border to prevent smuggling, though discussions remain ongoing. 

For now, Israel faces a critical test in securing its borders against an increasingly sophisticated and dangerous form of smuggling that could have far-reaching consequences for the region’s stability.

In a major operation, the IDF targeted and eliminated three senior Hamas operatives in Khan Yunis, including Samer Abu-Daka, head of Hamas' aerial operations, along with Asama Tabash, head of surveillance and targeting in Hamas’ military intelligence, and Ayman Mabhuh, a senior operative directly involved in the October 7 massacre. The strike was conducted on a Hamas command center hidden within a humanitarian zone in the Al-Mawasi area.

Three Senior Hamas Leaders Killed in Israeli Strike in Khan Yunis

According to the IDF, the operation was based on detailed intelligence and sustained aerial surveillance. 

"We confirmed the presence of key Hamas figures and acted with precision to minimize collateral damage," said an IDF spokesperson. While Hamas claims that 40 civilians were killed and 60 injured, the IDF disputes these figures, accusing Hamas of inflating casualty numbers and using civilians as human shields. 

"Hamas has repeatedly used civilians and humanitarian zones as cover for their operations. Despite our efforts to protect Gaza's civilians, Hamas exploits these areas to conceal their terror infrastructure," the IDF emphasized.

The strike has garnered international attention, with headlines in major outlets like The Washington Post and CNN focusing on the alleged civilian toll. The IDF, however, continues to highlight the moral challenges posed by Hamas' tactics and the importance of their mission to dismantle its military capabilities while minimizing harm to non-combatants.

This latest strike signals Israel’s resolve to continue its campaign against Hamas, despite international scrutiny, as the terror group attempts to regroup amid escalating tensions.

Iran's supply of ballistic missiles to Russia is causing already difficult relations between Teheran and Ukraine to deteriorate rapidly. Warnings have come from Kiev that Iran will pay a price for taking this step, and it is also asking Western allies to allow it to use the weapons they supply to strike deeper into Russia.

Iranian Built Missiles Supplied to Russia

“In response to the supply of ballistic missiles to Russia, Ukraine must be allowed to destroy warehouses storing these missiles with Western weapons in order to avoid terror,” Ukrainian Minister Andrii Yermak said on his Telegram channel. 

Additionally, the US, Britain, France and Germany have all imposed fresh sanctions on Iran in response to the move.

Russia has been receiving Shahed drones from Iran for almost two years and has fired hundreds of them at Ukrainian cities. But the Kremlin still tries to cast doubt on reports that it is receiving weapons from Iran.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov made a statement on Monday which included a remark about the reports of Iranian ballistic missiles being delivered to the Russian armed forces, saying “this kind of information is not true every time.”

Furthermore, he said, “Iran is our important partner. We are developing our trade and economic relations. We are developing our cooperation and dialogue in all possible areas, including the most sensitive ones, and will continue to do so in the interests of the peoples of our two countries.”

For it's part, Iran is flatly denying the reports, with foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani saying “We strongly reject allegations about Iran’s role in sending weapons to one side of the war, and we assess these allegations as politically motivated by some parties."

Elsewhere, CIA Director William Burns warned that the growing military ties between Russia, China, Iran and North Korea were a threat to America and its allies in the Middle East and elsewhere.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan gave a fiery address at a meeting of leaders from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation group in Ankara over the weekend, demanding that they join together in a united effort against Israel on all fronts.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan gave a fiery address at a meeting of leaders from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation group in Ankara over the weekend, demanding that they join together in a united effort against Israel on all fronts.

Erdogan Again Calls for United Moslem Front Against Israel

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan gave a fiery address at a meeting of leaders from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation group in Ankara over the weekend, demanding that they join together in a united effort against Israel on all fronts. Claiming that Israel is attacking the Al Aqsa Mosque compound in the Old City of Jerusalem, Erdogan thundered that "It is unthinkable for the OIC, whose duty is to take care of the Jerusalem cause, to remain indifferent to these attacks. It is urgent that the organization convenes at the leadership level without losing more time."

He also said he is planning to press charges against Israel at the International Court of Justice in The Hague in regard to teh death of Turkish-American woman, Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, who died under disputed circumstances at a demonstration near the city of Nablus, north of Jerusalem, last week.

"We will take every legal step for her blood not to remain on the ground," Erdogan said. "The genocide-committing Israeli leadership will absolutely be held accountable for the crimes it has committed."

According to sources reported by the Saudi television channel Al-Hadath, Mohammed Al-Sha'ar, prominent figure within Hezbollah, has  been eliminated in a strike in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, but so far no party has officially claimed responsibility.

Hezbollah Operative Killed in Bekaa Valley Strike, Sources Say

The Bekaa Valley, a strategic area for Hezbollah, has seen heightened activity in recent weeks, with tensions between Hezbollah and Israel escalating. While speculation mounts over potential Israeli involvement in this strike, as part of its ongoing campaign to neutralize Hezbollah's military capabilities, neither Israel nor Hezbollah has confirmed the incident at this time.

This strike follows a series of attacks targeting Hezbollah infrastructure as Israel ramps up its efforts to undermine the terror organization’s influence in Lebanon. The situation remains fluid, and more information is expected to emerge in the coming hours.

Stay updated as we follow this developing story.

The heartbreaking details of six Israeli hostages — Hirsch Goldberg-Polin, Eden Yerushalmi, Ori Danino, Almog Sarusi, Carmel Gat, and Alex Lubanov — who were murdered by Hamas terrorists in a tunnel near Rafah, have been released by the IDF. The hostages, who were held for 330 days, endured unimaginable suffering before their execution.

The heartbreaking details of six Israeli hostages — Hirsch Goldberg-Polin, Eden Yerushalmi, Ori Danino, Almog Sarusi, Carmel Gat, and Alex Lubanov — who were murdered by Hamas terrorists in a tunnel near Rafah, have been released by the IDF. The hostages, who were held for 330 days, endured unimaginable suffering before their execution.

"Hamas," "hostages," "Israel," "tunnel," and "murdered."

Hamas' Horrific Hostage Conditions Revealed

According to the IDF's initial investigation, the six were confined to a narrow tunnel, making it impossible for them to stand upright or even breathe properly. They were given minimal food and water, leading to severe malnutrition. The families learned that one hostage, Eden Yerushalmi, weighed just 36 kilograms at the time of her death.

In addition to the unbearable physical conditions, the hostages were subjected to psychological torture, with only two of them able to lie down at the same time. The tunnel, lacking proper ventilation, became a claustrophobic prison. Basic necessities like showers and toilets were nonexistent; the hostages were forced to use the same bottles for drinking water and makeshift showers.

The IDF discovered the hostages' bodies scattered throughout the tunnel after Hamas, fearing an imminent IDF rescue, executed them with gunshots to the head. Signs of previous injuries were also found on their bodies, and it was clear they had been systematically neglected throughout their captivity.

The tunnel where the hostages were held was equipped with minimal supplies, including protein bars, a small generator, and a chessboard. Despite the dire conditions, the six hostages managed to survive for nearly a year before their tragic end.

Israeli forces found the bodies in a tunnel near Rafah, not far from where another hostage, Farhan Kadi, was rescued. The operation to locate the hostages was slow and methodical due to the complexity of the situation, and no prior intelligence had confirmed their exact location in the months leading up to the discovery.

As Israel mourns the loss of these six brave individuals, their tragic story serves as a stark reminder of Hamas' brutality and the devastating toll of terrorism.

In one of the most intense military actions in recent years, Israel launched multiple waves of airstrikes against key military targets in Syria, including a precision missile production facility at a "Scientific Research Center." The strikes, reportedly spanning four separate waves, caused substantial damage to military sites and weapon shipments, particularly in the Tartus region.

In one of the most intense military actions in recent years, Israel launched multiple waves of airstrikes against key military targets in Syria, including a precision missile production facility at a "Scientific Research Center." The strikes, reportedly spanning four separate waves, caused substantial damage to military sites and weapon shipments, particularly in the Tartus region.

Israel airstrikes, Syria missile facility, Iran-backed militias, Israeli military operations, Middle East conflict.

#TBNIsrael #IDF #Syria #Iran

UPDATE - Massive Israeli Airstrikes in Syria

The Saudi news channel "Al-Hadath" reported that the airstrikes focused on Iranian-backed militias and infrastructure critical to their operations. One of the primary targets was the "Scientific Research Center," a facility known for producing precision-guided missiles. The center, located near Hama, was severely damaged by multiple direct hits.

In addition to the missile production facility, reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, based in London, indicated that the strikes also targeted military outposts in Tartus. The observatory claimed that some Syrian air defense missiles fell on civilian homes, resulting in casualties, particularly in the Tartus area. According to Syrian state media, however, only three people were killed and 15 were injured.

The attacks, which included at least four waves, were carried out from the direction of northwest Lebanon. Syrian military sources confirmed the strikes, stating that their air defense systems successfully intercepted some of the incoming missiles. However, the damage inflicted by the attacks is reported to be severe, particularly on weapons shipments and military infrastructure supporting Iranian forces.

These strikes follow an ongoing effort by Israel to weaken Hezbollah and Iranian militias in Syria, which continue to bolster their presence in the region. The Syrian media labeled the strikes as "the most violent in years," underscoring the strategic impact on pro-Iranian forces.

This escalation reflects the broader regional tensions between Israel and Iran, with Hezbollah's growing influence in Syria serving as a key point of contention. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated Israel's commitment to curbing Iran's military foothold in Syria, particularly through operations aimed at dismantling missile production and supply lines.

The latest strikes mark a significant moment in the ongoing conflict, with the potential for further escalations as both sides brace for more confrontations.

Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the U.S., Reema Bint Bandar Al Saud, made headlines this week by attending the MEAD Summit in Washington alongside key Israeli officials. This appearance, which took place in the presence of American leaders and diplomats from Morocco and Bahrain, is being seen as a possible indicator of warming relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Ambassador’s Bold Move: Appears Alongside Israeli Officials at Washington Summit

Saudi Arabia's ambassador to the U.S., Reema Bint Bandar Al Saud, made headlines by attending the MEAD Summit in Washington alongside key Israeli officials. This appearance, which took place in the presence of American leaders and diplomats from Morocco and Bahrain, is being seen as a possible indicator of warming relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

During the summit, Israeli leader Benny Gantz called for regional cooperation, expressing optimism for Saudi-Israeli normalization in the near future: "I believe Saudi Arabia, a pivotal Arab country, could soon join us in securing our mutual interests in areas like security, economy, and technology."

According to Israeli sources, after the U.S. elections, there may be a new window for a trilateral agreement involving Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the United States. The MEAD Summit, chaired by former U.S. ambassadors Tom Nides and David Friedman, served as a platform for engaging in critical discussions about the evolving dynamics in the Middle East.

As these talks progress, all eyes are on whether Saudi-Israel relations could be on the brink of a historic transformation. Could this summit mark the start of something monumental?

Former war cabinet member Benny Gantz, who leads the National Unity faction in the Knesset, was in Washington DC over the weekend to attend the Middle East America Dialogue (MEAD) summit event. While there, he discussed the current situation in Israel, saying that the focus of the IDF's efforts should shift away from the Gaza Strip and towards the threat from Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.

Gantz calls for Shift in Focus to Lebanon

“The time for [action in] the north has come,” he said. “Actually, I think we are late on this.”

“We need to ensure that we can return residents to their homes," he added. "We can achieve this goal, even if it requires striking Lebanon itself. Unfortunately, I don’t see another way.”

He added that in his assesment, the danger from Hamas in the Gaza Strip has faded to the point that “the story of Hamas is old news. The story of Iran and its proxies all around the area and what they are trying to do is the real issue.”

American airline JetBlue issued a statement on Sunday apologizing for an onboard map which covered the Middle East and put the label "Palestinian Territories" in large bold type above the State of Israel.

JetBlue Apologizes for Map of "Palestinian Territories"

American airline JetBlue issued a statement on Sunday apologizing for an onboard map which covered the Middle East and put the label "Palestinian Territories" in large bold type above the State of Israel. 