Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-15 at 12:04

HEADLINES
1. Israeli Forces Capture Terror Leader in West Bank
2. Gaza Airstrikes Kill Over 15 Palestinians Amid Escalation
3. US Boosts Regional Security with $10B Gulf Investment

The time is now 08:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Tonight, Israel remains deeply engaged in a multi-front conflict that continues to shape regional stability and security. The military operation in the West Bank has intensified, with Israeli forces targeting key figures in the terrorist infrastructure. Earlier today, Special Forces arrested the head of a terror organization in Toubas, a village in the Manasseh Brigade, seizing weapons and disrupting planned attacks. This operation follows a series of recent raids aimed at dismantling active cells responsible for multiple assaults.

Meanwhile, in Gaza, intense Israeli airstrikes have targeted what the military describes as militant command posts and weapon storage sites. These strikes come in response to ongoing rocket fire and mortar attacks from Palestinian factions. Reports indicate that in recent days, over 15 Palestinians, including militants and civilians, have been killed in these exchanges, further escalating tensions in the region.

On the northern front, Israeli troops continue to operate in the areas bordering Lebanon and Syria. Hezbollah and Iranian-backed militias are reported to be bolstering their positions, with Israel conducting targeted strikes to prevent the transfer of advanced weaponry. The Syrian front has seen increased activity as well, with Israeli aircraft striking Iranian military bases and weapon convoys moving through southern Syria.

In Iraq, Iran-backed militias remain active, threatening stability and conducting sporadic attacks against Israeli and allied targets. The government in Baghdad has condemned some of Israel’s military actions, calling for restraint, while Iran continues to deny direct involvement, despite evidence of its support to proxy groups.

Internationally, the United States has reaffirmed its support for Israel’s right to defend itself, with President Trump highlighting ongoing negotiations with Iran over a possible nuclear agreement. In Doha, Trump indicated that Iran has “sort of agreed” to his terms, raising hopes for a deal that could limit Tehran’s nuclear capabilities and reduce regional tensions. However, Iran’s negotiators have reportedly returned the US proposal for further consultation with Supreme Leader Khamenei, signaling ongoing disagreements.

Domestically, Israeli society faces internal challenges, including a recent incident where the Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben Gvir, and his wife were attacked by protesters in Beit Shemesh. The incident was triggered by the minister’s visit to an area with anti-government graffiti, which escalated into clashes with demonstrators. Authorities responded with dispersal measures, including the use of stun grenades.

Adding to the domestic tension, there have been reports of a terrorist attack near Bureijin, with Israeli forces killing five armed militants involved in the assault. The operation aimed to prevent further violence and dismantle terror networks operating in the area.

On the diplomatic front, the United States has announced a significant military investment in Qatar and the UAE, including a $10 billion pledge for the Al Udeid Air Base and plans to facilitate imports of advanced AI chips. These moves aim to strengthen regional alliances amid ongoing security concerns.

In other developments, Israeli authorities have reported a tragic traffic accident on Highway 675, where a collision between a truck and two private vehicles resulted in the death of the driver in one vehicle. Emergency services responded swiftly, but the severity of the crash left little hope for survivors.

Finally, amid the...