Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-18 at 19:04

HEADLINES
Israeli Forces Eliminate Hamas' Last Commander
Gaza Hospital Siege Sparks Humanitarian Crisis
Iran Vows Uranium Enrichment Despite Diplomatic Talks

The time is now 03:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Today, Israel remains in the midst of a multi-front conflict, with ongoing military operations and diplomatic efforts shaping the current landscape. In the north, Israeli forces continue their intense ground and air campaigns against Hamas in Gaza, targeting key military infrastructure and leadership, including the elimination of Hamas' last military commander, Mohammed Sinwar. The Israeli Air Force has launched over 670 strikes across Gaza, aiming to dismantle Hamas' capabilities and weaken its command structure. Reports from Gaza indicate that Israeli forces are surrounding the Al-Indonesian hospital in the northern Gaza Strip, conducting heavy fire and advancing on the site.

In Lebanon, tensions persist as Israel monitors Hezbollah's movements along the northern border, with intelligence suggesting increased activity but no immediate escalation reported. Lebanon's government has reiterated its stance of neutrality, though the presence of Lebanese armed groups complicates regional stability. Meanwhile, in Syria, a blast at a police station in Al-Mayadeen resulted in at least three fatalities, according to state news reports, amid ongoing security operations.

Across the broader region, Iran's stance remains defiant. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared that Iran will continue enriching uranium "with or without a deal," emphasizing the country's resolve to develop its nuclear program for civilian use. Tehran currently enriches uranium to 60 percent, well above the limits set in the 2015 nuclear agreement, yet insists this is for peaceful purposes. Iran has also expressed openness to temporary restrictions but remains firm on its right to enrich.

Diplomatic channels in the Middle East are active. Iranian officials have held talks with European diplomats, discussing the potential for rebuilding trust and the possibility of a new nuclear accord. Iran is also considering whether to reimpose UN sanctions should Western powers push for it, with the European Union weighing its options amid ongoing negotiations. The United States continues to engage in high-level talks, emphasizing the importance of disarmament and compliance from Iran.

Meanwhile, Israel faces domestic challenges, including political tensions. The Haredi parties' boycott of the Knesset legislative process persists for a third week, demanding changes to military service regulations. Israeli political figures are proposing reforms, including allowing voters to influence party candidate lists directly, aiming to democratize party structures ahead of upcoming elections. Polls indicate a potential shift in political alignments, with former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's potential candidacy possibly securing 27 seats, challenging current party standings.

On the security front, disturbing developments include the arrest of an 18-year-old Israeli citizen, Moshe Atias, who was recruited by Iranian agents to surveil the hospital where former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett was hospitalized. The investigation reveals Atias filmed Bennett’s guarded room, raising concerns about foreign espionage efforts targeting Israeli leaders.

In Gaza, the humanitarian toll continues to rise. The Civil Defense in Gaza reports at least 150 casualties since this morning, with widespread destruction and ongoing firefights. Palestinian families, including those of captives, demand decisive action from Israeli leadership to end the conflict and secure the release of all hostages.

In a significant development, Hamas has expressed willingness to release between seven and nine hostages in exchange for a two-month...