Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-17 at 23:04

HEADLINES
1. Yemen Launches Missile at Israel Amid Escalating War
2. Gaza Combat Intensifies as Israel Targets Hamas Strongholds
3. Iran-backed Militias Heighten Tensions Along Syria Lebanon Border

The time is now 07:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Tonight at seven o'clock, Israel finds itself at the nexus of a multi-front conflict that has escalated significantly over the past days. The Israel Defense Forces have confirmed the identification of a missile launched from Yemen toward Israeli territory. The military's missile defense systems are actively working to intercept this threat, and citizens are advised to follow emergency instructions issued by the Home Front Command.

Meanwhile, the broader regional theater continues to be engulfed in hostilities. In Gaza, fighting persists between Israeli forces and Hamas militants, with reports indicating that Israel has intensified its military operations aimed at degrading Hamas' capabilities. The war, which erupted on October 7th with a severe Hamas attack, has resulted in extensive casualties and widespread destruction, prompting international calls for a ceasefire.

In Syria, the government has announced the formation of two new commissions—one for missing persons and another for transitional justice—more than five months after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. These bodies aim to address the fate of tens of thousands who vanished during the conflict and to establish accountability for atrocities committed under Assad’s rule. The move signals an attempt at transitional justice, though many victims’ families remain uncertain about the prospects for true reconciliation.

Lebanon’s Hezbollah and other proxy groups continue to support Hamas, with reports suggesting increased military readiness along the northern border. The Lebanese government maintains a stance of neutrality, yet cross-border tensions remain high. Meanwhile, in Syria, ongoing clashes and the presence of Iranian-backed militias complicate the security landscape.

Iraq and Yemen also remain involved indirectly, with Iran’s influence extending across these fronts. Iran has publicly condemned Israel’s military actions and continues to supply support to various allied groups in the region. The international community is closely monitoring the possibility of escalation into a wider regional conflict.

Domestically, Israel faces mounting concerns over its civilian population, with cities under threat from rocket attacks and airstrikes. The government has called for increased security measures and has urged the public to stay alert and follow safety protocols. The situation has also impacted Israel’s international relations, as global reactions vary from strong support to criticism of military actions.

On the diplomatic front, efforts for a ceasefire remain fragile. Hamas has reportedly offered to release half of the remaining hostages—both living and deceased—in exchange for a two-month ceasefire, which would allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. The United States and other nations are engaged in diplomatic discussions, but doubts persist about the ability to enforce any agreement, especially given Hamas’ demands for guarantees and the complex negotiations over aid and hostage releases.

International reactions continue to be divided. In Europe, protests and condemnations have surfaced, including a controversial incident during the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, where protesters displayed banners opposing Israel’s military actions. The Belgian broadcaster briefly blacked out the broadcast, citing human rights concerns and accusing Israel of undermining press freedom and perpetrating violations in Gaza.

Amid these developments, other news includes a tornado in the United States that caused the death of over twenty individuals, primarily in...