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

HEADLINES
1. Israel Strikes Yemen Ports to Halt Iran Arms
2. Tense Gaza and Lebanon Borders on High Alert
3. Iran Negotiations Continue Amid Middle East Tensions

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

At noon, the situation remains tense across multiple fronts involving Israel’s ongoing conflict with Iran and its proxies. Israel reports continued military operations targeting strategic locations in Yemen, with the Israel Defense Forces striking ports in Hodeidah and Salif after Houthi missile fire, aiming to hinder weapons transfers and degrade their operational capabilities. These strikes follow prior assaults on Yemen's main airport in Sanaa and are part of a broader effort to weaken the Houthi military infrastructure, which Israel attributes to Iranian-backed forces operating in the region.

In northern Gaza, Israeli forces have carried out significant strikes on a structure in the Zaitar neighborhood of the northern Gaza Strip, as part of a campaign to dismantle militant infrastructure. The Israeli military emphasizes that these operations are aimed at preventing attacks and neutralizing threats from armed groups in the area.

Across the border in Lebanon, tensions persist as Hezbollah remains on high alert, with reports of increased activity along the border region. Israel’s military continues to monitor these developments, prepared for potential escalation.

In Syria and Iraq, Israeli airstrikes have targeted Iranian military positions and weapon convoys, reflecting Israel’s ongoing efforts to prevent Iran’s entrenchment and arms transfers in these countries. These actions are part of a sustained campaign to counter Iran’s regional influence and its efforts to establish a buffer of allied militias.

Further south, Israeli operations have extended to Yemen, where the Israel Defense Forces have targeted Houthi ports in Hodeidah and Salif. These strikes are part of a strategic campaign to impose a maritime blockade on Houthi-controlled areas, with Israeli officials indicating plans to intensify efforts to disrupt arms shipments and weaken the Houthi military capabilities. This effort is occurring amid ongoing international discussions about Iran’s nuclear program and regional activities.

In the diplomatic arena, Iran and European powers are engaging in nuclear talks in Istanbul, aiming to revive the JCPOA agreement. Despite ongoing negotiations, the United States continues to emphasize the importance of maintaining sanctions and containment measures, with a snapback sanctions deadline approaching in October.

Meanwhile, the Houthi leadership in Yemen has issued statements asserting their intent to continue military operations, including expanding their blockade and missile attacks, claiming they are engaged in a "battle open against Israel" and will not cease their efforts, which they link to Iran’s support.

In a high-level address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel’s air force successfully targeted two Houthi ports in Yemen, emphasizing that these actions are part of a broader strategy to eliminate threats posed by Iran-backed forces. Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to defending its borders and pledged to continue offensive operations as long as threats persist.

Internationally, the Gulf Cooperation Council leaders have hosted a tour by US President Donald Trump, who praised Gulf monarchies for their modernization and stability efforts, while also engaging in discussions about regional security and military cooperation. Trump's visit included endorsements of Gulf leaders’ initiatives and a focus on strategic partnerships, with an emphasis on strengthening military readiness.

Meanwhile, in Yemen, pro-Gaza demonstrations and expressions of solidarity have taken place across the country,...