Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-18 at 01:04

HEADLINES
1. Israel intercepts Yemen missile amid rising regional tensions
2. Gaza rocket attack prompts widespread sirens and alerts
3. Eurovision singer vows victory depends on returning hostages

The time is now 09:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Tonight at 9:00 PM, Israeli media reports that the country remains under heightened alert amid ongoing hostilities across multiple fronts. The Israeli Defense Forces have intercepted a missile launched from Yemen, with air defense systems activated in response. Sirens sounded in various regions, including the Tel Aviv metropolitan area, the Sharon region, and the Jordan Valley, prompting residents to seek shelter. The IDF confirmed that one missile was successfully intercepted, and additional alerts remain in effect in several communities.

In recent hours, tensions escalated with a rocket attack from Gaza, resulting in sirens blaring across southern Israel, including Ashkelon and Beersheba. The military reports that multiple projectiles were launched, some of which were intercepted by missile defense systems, while others impacted in open areas. No casualties have been reported so far, but emergency protocols are still in place.

Simultaneously, reports indicate that a rocket was fired from Yemen, prompting Israel’s Iron Dome to engage. Israeli officials have emphasized that these attacks reflect the broader regional conflict, with Iran and its proxies actively involved in supporting hostile actions against Israel.

In international developments, the US embassy in Tripoli issued a statement denying reports that the Biden administration is planning to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to Libya. The reports, circulated by NBC News, suggested that the US might be considering resettlement plans for up to one million Palestinians. The embassy clarified that these claims are false, and the US government has no such plans. The Palestinian population in Gaza remains steadfast in their refusal to leave, with many likening any forced displacement to the historic 1948 Nakba.

Meanwhile, in political and diplomatic arenas, there are voices calling for increased international intervention to de-escalate the conflict. However, some regional actors, including the Houthi movement in Yemen, have issued statements warning of further escalation, citing the ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza and the West Bank.

In domestic news, a powerful explosion was heard in central Israel, with residents reporting a loud blast and subsequent sirens. Emergency services are assessing the situation, and authorities advise the public to remain in shelters as security measures are reinforced.

On the cultural front, Israeli singer Yuval Raphael celebrated her second-place finish at Eurovision 2025, expressing pride and emphasizing that true victory will only be achieved when hostages are safely returned home. She stated, “We won life, but our real victory depends on bringing our people home.” Her remarks echoed the sentiment shared by many Israelis, underscoring the importance of securing the release of captives as a vital national priority.

In a related note, Israeli officials and military sources continue to monitor multiple threats, with some reports indicating that further missile launches and air alerts could occur as the conflict persists. The situation remains highly fluid, with ongoing military operations and diplomatic efforts aiming to restore calm.

This evening’s events highlight the ongoing volatility in the region and the complex interplay of security, political, and humanitarian concerns. The Israeli government remains committed to defending its citizens while calling for international support to achieve lasting peace and the safe return of all hostages. We will continue to follow these developments and provide updates...