Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-16 at 21:04

HEADLINES
Israeli Forces Launch Major Gaza Underground Assault
Global Powers Clash Over Gaza Military Escalation
Gaza Crisis Deepens as Humanitarian Catastrophe Unfolds

The time is now 05:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Today, the conflict in Israel continues to escalate across multiple fronts, with significant developments on the military, diplomatic, and humanitarian levels. In Gaza, Israeli forces have launched extensive operations as part of the first phase of the "Carmel Gadeon" operation. These include widespread attacks aimed at targeting subterranean infrastructure, with explosions indicating significant damage below the surface. The Israeli military remains in Dhuwa, engaged in negotiations to possibly de-escalate, but no breakthrough has yet been achieved. The operation aims to weaken Hamas, secure the release of hostages, and prevent further terrorist activity.

Meanwhile, in the northern Gaza Strip, intense Israeli bombardments persist, with the sound of powerful explosions suggesting ongoing underground strikes. Israeli officials have indicated that the military is considering whether to intensify the operation further, with a decision expected within the next 24 to 48 hours. Israeli Defense Forces reports confirm that they are expanding their control on the ground, capturing strategic areas as part of efforts to diminish Hamas’ capabilities.

In the southern front, Israeli forces continue to confront threats, including a recent attack in Jerusalem where a terrorist armed with a knife was neutralized after stabbing a police officer. The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges despite the military campaign. An earlier attack in the Old City saw a terrorist attempting to breach the gates, leading to a police shootout that resulted in the attacker’s death.

The situation in the West Bank remains tense, with reports of increased violence and Israeli military operations. Lieutenant-Colonel (Reserve) Maurice Hirsch questioned why the Palestinian Authority has not taken more decisive action to curb terrorism, highlighting concerns about the persistent unrest and violence in the area.

On the international stage, several European countries, including Luxembourg, have condemned Israel's planned military operations in Gaza, warning that crossing certain lines could threaten the viability of a two-state solution and lead to further escalation. The international community remains divided, with some nations expressing grave concern over the potential for a broader conflict.

In the United States, reports indicate that the Trump administration is considering a controversial plan to relocate up to one million Palestinians from Gaza to Libya. The proposal involves the release of billions of dollars previously frozen by the US government, in exchange for resettlement agreements. This initiative has sparked widespread debate, with critics warning it could destabilize the region further.

In the diplomatic arena, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been linked in a German TV investigation to controversial media outlets and allegations of interference in efforts to release hostages. The investigation suggests potential ties to a German tabloid that published a leaked Hamas document and accused Netanyahu of damaging Israeli democracy to maintain power.

Adding to the tensions, in Jerusalem, a terrorist armed with a knife was shot and killed after attacking a police officer at the Chain Gate in the Old City. The incident highlights the persistent threat of terror attacks, even amid the ongoing military operations.

Humanitarian concerns are mounting, with the Gaza Health Ministry reporting over 115 deaths since this morning. The UN and other organizations warn that famine and starvation threaten a significant portion of Gaza’s population,...