Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-19 at 08:07

HEADLINES
1. Israel Launches Humanitarian Aid Amid Gaza Tensions
2. Iran Criticizes US as Regional Instability Grows
3. Gaza Devastation Deepens Amid Ongoing Israeli Strikes

The time is now 04:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At 4 a.m., we continue to monitor the escalating conflict across multiple fronts involving Israel, Iran, and their proxies. Israel’s government has taken steps to permit humanitarian aid into Gaza, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasizing that aid is essential to prevent starvation among civilians. He stated that the new aid distribution points, supervised directly by the Israel Defense Forces, aim to prevent Hamas from controlling supplies, thereby maintaining international support for Israel’s security measures. However, this aid effort is viewed as a temporary measure until the new IDF-run distribution centers become operational next week, with ongoing concerns that Hamas may seize a significant portion of the supplies despite efforts to prevent it. The aid includes essentials such as infant formula, medical supplies, and fuel, yet the risk of diversion persists, complicating Israel’s efforts to balance humanitarian needs with security.

Meanwhile, tensions surrounding negotiations with Iran are intensifying. Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson has criticized the US for what he described as a “snake and ladder” pattern in negotiations, expressing skepticism about American commitment after perceived shifts in their stance post-visit to Washington. This skepticism fuels broader regional instability, as diplomatic channels remain strained amidst ongoing conflicts and mutual accusations.

On the domestic front, Israeli officials are embroiled in controversy over the recent decision to resume aid to Gaza without a parliamentary vote. Critics, including coalition partners, argue that this move emboldens Hamas and undermines government authority. Minister Bezalel Smotrich is scheduled to deliver a statement at 11 a.m. regarding the aid policy, following his opposition to the aid resumption. Security sources report that nine humanitarian trucks, carrying supplies like baby food, are expected to enter Gaza today via the Rafah crossing, with additional aid possibly arriving later, though concerns about Hamas seizing the supplies continue to loom.

In the occupied West Bank, reports indicate continued violence. Palestinian witnesses in Khan Younis describe intense Israeli airstrikes that they say resemble “apocalyptic scenes,” with locals recounting harrowing experiences of destruction and chaos. Additionally, the death of a Palestinian worker in Beit Biran after being trapped under a mound of soil has been confirmed, alongside reports of the killing of Ahmad Sarhan, a senior figure in the Resistance Committees, during an Israeli operation in Khan Younis. His death signifies ongoing targeted strikes against militant leadership.

In Gaza, the aftermath of recent Israeli military activity includes reports of destruction and casualties. Witnesses describe the scene as catastrophic, with airstrikes causing widespread devastation. The situation remains dire, with reports of severe damage to infrastructure and continued clashes.

Across the region, diplomatic efforts continue to focus on the Ukrainian conflict. US President Donald Trump has expressed hope for progress toward a ceasefire in Ukraine through calls with Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, though recent diplomatic exchanges highlight the difficulty in achieving a breakthrough. The international community remains concerned about the potential for regional escalation.

Meanwhile, in Israel, the issue of hostages taken by Hamas remains a central concern. Survivor and former hostage Arbel Yehoud testified before the Knesset, describing her harrowing 482 days in captivity, conditions she...