Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-15 at 16:04

HEADLINES
1. Israel Launches Massive Assault on Gaza Targets
2. Hezbollah Fires as Israel Strikes Northern Lebanon
3. Hostage Reunions Spark Hope Amid Escalating Conflict

The time is now 12:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Today, the conflict across Israel and its surrounding regions continues to escalate, with significant military activity reported on multiple fronts. Israeli Defense Forces remain engaged in a broad operation targeting terrorist infrastructure, with over 130 targets of Hamas and other militant groups struck within the last 48 hours across Gaza. These strikes include missile launch sites, command centers, and weapons depots, as part of Israel’s ongoing efforts to dismantle threats and ensure security for its citizens.

In the north, Israeli artillery has launched strikes against Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, specifically targeting the city of Sbeaa in response to cross-border fire. This development underscores the widening scope of hostilities in the region, with tensions rising along Israel’s northern border.

Meanwhile, in Gaza, the Israeli military continues its intensive campaign, notably focusing on disrupting Hamas’ command and logistics capabilities. Israeli aircraft have carried out precise strikes on more than 130 terrorist targets, including rocket launchers, militant hideouts, and weapon storage facilities. Ground operations are also ongoing, with units conducting targeted raids and demolitions designed to weaken Hamas’ operational capacity.

The Israeli military has also announced the elimination of a key Hamas figure responsible for financing and recruiting. This individual, previously a commander in Gaza’s southern sector, was involved in transferring tens of millions of dollars to Hamas’ military wing, funding terror activities and paying salaries to militants. The operation was carried out in Gaza City, and Israeli forces report that the target was neutralized without civilian casualties.

On the diplomatic front, Israel’s security officials have indicated that the military campaign is expected to continue until Hamas is significantly degraded. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized the importance of eradicating terrorist infrastructure, while also maintaining efforts to facilitate humanitarian aid into Gaza through border crossings, despite ongoing hostilities.

International reactions remain mixed. Some countries, particularly Western allies, have expressed support for Israel’s right to defend itself. However, others have called for restraint, urging a de-escalation to avoid further civilian suffering. The United Nations has reiterated its call for immediate ceasefire and the protection of civilians, as reports of casualties and destruction continue to mount.

Within Israel, the nation remains on high alert. Security measures have been heightened nationwide, with restrictions on movement in border areas and increased military readiness. The situation has also impacted domestic life; in northern communities, residents are advised to remain in protected areas, and emergency services are on standby to respond to any new threats.

In related developments, reports confirm that the Israeli military is pursuing an active manhunt for a terrorist involved in recent attacks in the region. Israeli forces are conducting searches in Judea and Samaria, aiming to locate and apprehend suspects linked to ongoing rocket fire and sabotage attempts.

Amid this turmoil, there are ongoing efforts to facilitate the release of hostages held by Hamas. Israeli officials have indicated that negotiations are ongoing, with some reports suggesting that a deal could be imminent. In a recent development, a flight brought home a woman who had been held captive in Gaza for nearly two years, a moment marked with emotional...