Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-18 at 00:05

HEADLINES
1. Yemen missile interception signals Iran’s expanding reach
2. Israel’s resilience shines at Eurovision amid threats
3. Heightened alerts as regional attacks threaten national security

The time is now 08:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Tonight, Israel remains under the shadow of ongoing hostilities across multiple fronts, as the conflict with Iran and its proxies intensifies. Reports confirm that a missile launched from Yemen by the Houthi movement was intercepted over Israeli territory, amid heightened alerts and security measures. The Israel Defense Forces indicated that measures were taken according to protocol, with missile defenses successfully intercepting the threat. Despite these efforts, a loud explosion was heard in the central region of the country, causing concern among residents and prompting emergency alerts to seek shelter.

Meanwhile, intelligence confirms that additional projectile activity has been detected in various regions, with warning sirens sounding in the Dan, Shfela, Yarkon, Lehi, Shomron, Judean Hills, and Sharon areas. Authorities advise civilians to remain in protected spaces for at least ten minutes upon receiving alerts, as the situation remains volatile. The military continues to track incoming threats and emphasizes that all defenses are operational.

On the diplomatic and international stage, tensions persist. A statement from the Israeli military indicates that a missile was shot from Yemen, a clear sign of Iran’s expanding influence and ability to coordinate attacks from afar. Israel’s security cabinet convened earlier today to assess the situation and coordinate responses, emphasizing that the country will take all necessary measures to defend its citizens.

In other developments, the Eurovision Song Contest concluded with Israel’s star, Yuval Raphael, finishing in second place, an achievement celebrated nationwide despite the political tensions surrounding the event. Raphael’s performance, which references recent attacks and personal survival stories, struck a chord with viewers, symbolizing resilience and hope. Her heartfelt rendition of “New Day Will Rise” garnered international admiration, and her emotional journey from the terror of October 7, 2023, to the Eurovision stage has been widely noted as a symbol of perseverance.

Security concerns remain high, with reports of anti-Israel protests during the Eurovision final and incidents of aggression, including a man making a throat-slitting gesture directed at Raphael. Israeli officials have lodged complaints with local authorities, and heightened security is in place to prevent any further disturbances. During the final performance, security personnel thwarted an attempt by a Dutch couple to storm the stage, and a woman was detained for spraying red paint on a security guard.

Despite the threats and attempted disruptions, the Israeli delegation and performers remain unharmed. The Houthi missile strike, which occurred after Raphael’s performance, underscores the persistent danger Israel faces from regional adversaries. While not voting for her song, the Houthis’ missile fire was timed after the event, suggesting a deliberate attempt to undermine the celebration and strike fear.

Israeli military officials reaffirm that all defenses are active and effective. The IDF’s spokesperson announced that the interception systems successfully neutralized the threat from Yemen, and further measures are underway to bolster security across the country. Citizens are urged to stay alert, follow instructions, and remain in protected areas as the situation develops.

As the night unfolds, the resilience of the Israeli people is evident. The nation’s spirit is embodied in Raphael’s performance and the collective resolve to withstand external threats. With international tensions...