Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-15 at 10:05

HEADLINES
1. Israel Faces Multi-Front War Escalation Worldwide
2. Gaza Strikes Kill Dozens Amid Broader Offensive Threats
3. Iran-Backed Attacks Signal Regional Spillover Risks

The time is now 06:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Tonight, Israel faces an intensified multi-front conflict that underscores the complex security landscape in the region. Over the past 24 hours, Israeli forces have engaged in significant operations across several fronts, including Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen, reflecting the broad scope of threats confronting the Jewish state.

In Gaza, Israeli military units launched a series of targeted strikes following a surge in hostilities. Near the hospital in Jabalya and in the northern Strip, the Israel Defense Forces conducted extensive air and artillery attacks, aiming to neutralize militant infrastructure. Reports indicate that over 80 Palestinians have been killed in the latest wave of violence, with estimates suggesting around 50 to 60 casualties since last night. The Israeli military has also issued renewed evacuation alerts for the Rimal neighborhood in Gaza, amid fears of preparatory phases for a broader operation, which some observers associate with the initial stages of a large-scale offensive.

In the West Bank, Israeli forces reportedly killed five militants in Tammoun, following intelligence that identified armed groups entrenched within a building, resulting in exchanges of fire and the destruction of the structure. Additional clashes and arrests continue in other areas, with the IDF uncovering weapons caches, including M16 rifles and military gear, during house searches.

Meanwhile, in Lebanon, Hezbollah has increased its military activity along the border, with exchanges of fire and threats of escalation. The Lebanese armed group appears to be testing Israel’s defenses, responding to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Iran’s regional stance.

In Syria and Iraq, Iranian-backed militias have launched cross-border rocket attacks targeting Israeli positions, emphasizing Iran’s strategic effort to open multiple fronts. The Syrian military has reported missile strikes near its southern regions, while Iraq-based militias have claimed responsibility for attacks on Israeli assets in the region.

In Yemen, Houthi forces have claimed to have launched drone and missile attacks toward southern Israel, a development that signals Iran’s expanding influence and the potential for escalation beyond the immediate Middle East theater.

Internationally, concerns are mounting over the implications of these hostilities. The United States has signaled its intention to support Israel’s right to defend itself, while also exploring diplomatic avenues, including discussions about a potential nuclear deal with Iran. President Donald Trump has recently indicated that the US is close to finalizing an agreement with Iran, which could involve significant concessions from Tehran, including the relinquishment of highly enriched uranium and accepting stricter inspections. However, Israel remains wary, fearing that such an agreement might overlook Iran’s regional ambitions and military capabilities, particularly its missile program and support for militant proxies.

Domestically, Israeli leadership is preparing for a challenging night, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu scheduled to meet with opposition leader Yair Lapid at the military headquarters to review security measures. Meanwhile, the country continues to deal with the aftermath of recent attacks and the ongoing humanitarian situation in Gaza, where thousands are displaced or injured, and aid efforts are underway to provide relief.

Adding to the tension, reports of a Hamas double agent having misled Israeli intelligence prior to the October 7 invasion highlight...