Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-18 at 13:04

HEADLINES
1. Israel Escalates Gaza Strikes Amid Humanitarian Crisis
2. Diplomatic Talks Stall Over Hostage Release Demands
3. Israel Arrests Terror Suspects in West Bank

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

At nine o'clock in the morning, news from the region continues to highlight the multi-front conflict involving Israel and various regional actors. Israel remains engaged in a complex and intense campaign against Hamas in Gaza, with recent airstrikes and ongoing ground preparations indicating an escalation in military activity. Israeli officials have expressed frustration with the limited scope of their operations, citing concerns that certain measures, such as relocating civilians or severing Hamas’ ties with the population, are not being fully implemented, potentially hindering the effort to dismantle the organization. The operation, dubbed Gideon’s Chariots, is projected to last around a year, with questions remaining about its multi-phase structure.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military has conducted numerous arrests in the West Bank, capturing fifteen wanted individuals and confiscating weapons, including firearms and ammunition. These operations are part of a broader effort to prevent terrorist activities and dismantle terror cells. In one noteworthy incident, security forces uncovered weapons and arrested suspects in villages near Ramallah, with some detainees linked to ongoing plots or militant activity.

On the diplomatic front, Israeli President Isaac Herzog met with US Vice President JD Vance during the Pope’s inauguration in Vatican City. Vance is expected to visit Israel shortly, and discussions are underway with the White House regarding upcoming meetings. Herzog also had a rare encounter with Pope Leo XIV, emphasizing Israel’s diplomatic engagement amidst regional tensions.

In Gaza, reports from Palestinian sources indicate ongoing heavy casualties, with Palestinian health officials announcing that over 500 Palestinians have been killed in recent days. The situation remains dire, with hospitals overwhelmed and reports of severe injuries, including the condition of Dr. Zakaria Sanoar, brother of Hamas leader Yahya Sanoar, who was reported to be in critical condition after a recent strike that claimed the lives of his children.

Across the region, diplomatic negotiations continue. Israeli and Palestinian officials are engaged in indirect talks mediated by regional actors, with reports suggesting that Israel is insisting on the release of all hostages and the full release of Palestinian prisoners as conditions for broader negotiations. However, progress remains uncertain, with some reports indicating that no breakthrough has yet been achieved despite intense diplomatic activity in Doha.

In Israel’s domestic arena, political debates persist over the extension of security measures, with a recent attempt to extend an emergency order failing to pass in the Knesset. Opposition members have disrupted proceedings, emphasizing the contentious nature of security legislation during this period of conflict.

On the international stage, the United States continues efforts to mediate a ceasefire, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu holding multiple discussions with US officials, including his envoy Steve Weitkoff. The current proposals include the release of ten hostages in exchange for easing some restrictions, but no definitive agreement has been reached. The Israeli government has signaled readiness to escalate military action if negotiations stall, emphasizing its determination to neutralize threats from Hamas and other militant organizations.

In economic news, the Tel Aviv stock exchange shows signs of resilience, with indices rising as investors respond to regional stability concerns and regional diplomatic signals. The local...