Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-15 at 17:05

HEADLINES
Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Terrorist in Lebanon
Israel Strikes Gaza Targets to Dismantle Hamas
Hamas Negotiates with US Amid Threat of Ground War

The time is now 01:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At 1:00 PM, several significant developments are shaping the ongoing conflict and regional security landscape. The Israel Defense Forces announced the elimination of a Hezbollah terrorist in southern Lebanon, specifically in the Arnoun area, who was engaged in efforts to rebuild terrorist infrastructure. This targeted strike underscores Israel’s ongoing efforts to degrade Hezbollah’s capabilities and prevent the re-establishment of militant operations along its northern border.

Meanwhile, in Gaza, Israeli forces continue their intensive operations, with over 130 targets struck across the territory in the past 48 hours. These targets include rocket launch sites, terrorist command posts, and infrastructure used for militant activities, reflecting Israel’s strategic campaign to dismantle Hamas’ military infrastructure and weaken its capacity to threaten Israeli security.

In the realm of international diplomacy, Israel has issued a stark warning to Hamas: without progress in negotiations, a ground offensive will be initiated immediately after the departure of former US President Donald Trump from the region. The Israeli government indicates that Hamas’s rejection of a partial peace deal, based on the Witkoff framework, leaves Israel no choice but to proceed with the planned ground operation. Some reservists have already been mobilized, and additional troop call-ups are anticipated once a decision is finalized. The primary objective remains to seize significant portions of Gaza and facilitate the safe movement of civilians southward, with humanitarian aid centers being established to support Gaza’s two million residents amid the conflict.

On the northern front, Israeli airstrikes targeted a Hezbollah operative involved in rebuilding efforts in southern Lebanon, highlighting the ongoing tension and Israel’s vigilance against Hezbollah’s escalation. The Lebanese reports confirm artillery exchanges between Israel and southern Lebanon, indicating a volatile escalation along the border.

In Syria and Iraq, Israeli military actions have continued, with strikes aimed at terrorist bases and military infrastructure associated with Iran-backed groups. These operations aim to prevent the transfer of weapons and to weaken Iranian influence in the region.

In domestic Israeli news, a 25-year-old man fell from a horse in Beit Likia, sustaining moderate injuries, and a two-year-old child was injured in a fall into an empty fountain during a celebration in Beit She'an; both are receiving medical attention. Additionally, a motorcyclist was injured in a riding accident in Safed. These incidents highlight ongoing safety concerns amid the broader security situation.

Internationally, Lufthansa has delayed the return of its flights to Israel at least until May 25, citing security assessments. This suspension influences travel plans and reflects airlines’ concerns over safety in the region, serving as a precedent for other carriers to follow.

In a notable development, a senior Hamas official, Bassem Naim, publicly claimed that Hamas is engaged in direct negotiations with US representatives, including former President Trump, aiming to broker a ceasefire and political resolution. Naim emphasized that Hamas is willing to cooperate with any party, including the US, to end the conflict, provided humanitarian needs like food, water, and medicine are met. He also reiterated Hamas’s commitment to resistance, asserting Gaza’s sovereignty and the organization’s willingness to transfer governance to Palestinian authorities after the war.

On the cultural front, Jewish MLB pitcher...