Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-18 at 03:05

HEADLINES
1. Iran Supplies Militias Amid Multi-Front Israel Conflict
2. Gaza Humanitarian Crisis Deepens as Aid Faces Blockade
3. Israel Warns of Solo Defense Amid Regional Tensions

The time is now 11:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Good evening. At 11 p.m., we begin with an overview of the complex and multi-faceted conflict involving Israel, Iran, and their regional proxies. The current situation underscores a broad, multi-front war across seven key areas: Iran, Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen, each presenting unique challenges and strategic considerations.

In Iran, tensions remain high as the Iranian regime continues to supply and coordinate with proxy groups, notably Hezbollah in Lebanon and various militias in Iraq and Syria. While Iran denies direct involvement in hostilities, its support for armed groups responsible for attacks against Israel remains a critical concern for Israeli security.

Gaza remains a focal point of conflict. Humanitarian aid efforts are underway, but the situation on the ground is dire. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has announced plans to operate multiple distribution sites, aiming to deliver 300 million meals over the next three months. Israel has been coordinating with international partners to facilitate aid delivery, but tensions persist over the control and distribution of supplies, with Israel asserting that it controls access to Gaza and that aid must be distributed within a framework that prevents Hamas from diverting resources.

Meanwhile, in the West Bank, Israeli military operations continue against militant cells, with heightened tensions and violence reported. Palestinian factions are resisting Israeli efforts, and the risk of escalation remains high.

Lebanon, dominated by Hezbollah, remains a significant threat. Hezbollah has engaged in sporadic clashes along the border, raising fears of a broader conflict. Iran’s backing of Hezbollah underscores the regional stakes.

Syria's involvement is notable as well, with Israel conducting targeted strikes against Iranian-backed forces and military infrastructure. The recent meeting between a US president and a Syrian leader, a rare occurrence in 25 years, signals shifting diplomatic dynamics, but the situation remains fragile.

In Iraq, US and allied forces face ongoing attacks from Iranian-backed militias. The US has reaffirmed its commitment to countering Iranian influence and supporting Iraqi security forces.

Yemen's Houthis continue launching attacks against Israel, despite a US-declared ceasefire with the Houthis. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has responded firmly, stating, “Israel will defend itself by itself,” signaling readiness to act unilaterally if necessary.

Internationally, the diplomatic landscape is evolving. President Trump’s recent Gulf visit highlighted a transactional approach to diplomacy, with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE pledging trillions of dollars in investments, emphasizing economic interests and strategic returns. This shift indicates that Israel's traditional alliance with the United States must now be supplemented by tangible deliverables, such as innovation, defense cooperation, and regional economic initiatives.

Despite efforts to strengthen partnerships, Israel recognizes that it may face scenarios requiring unilateral action, especially if new Iran nuclear agreements or regional arms deals threaten its security. The Prime Minister's 2015 declaration that “Even if Israel has to stand alone, Israel will stand,” remains relevant. Recent events, including attacks from Houthi factions and ongoing threats from Iran and its proxies, reinforce the possibility that Israel may need to act independently to safeguard its core interests.

Domestically, tensions extend beyond the battlefield....