Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-19 at 17:05

HEADLINES
1. Israel Launches Precision Strikes to Destroy Hamas
2. Iran-Backed Militias Escalate Middle East Tensions
3. US Warns Israel of Support Risks Amid Gaza War

The time is now 01:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At 1:01 PM, this is the latest update on the multifaceted conflict and regional developments affecting Israel and its surroundings.

Israel continues its military operations in Gaza as part of the ongoing "Gideon’s Rotem" campaign, with the Israeli Air Force executing precise strikes against terror targets, including tunnels, weapons depots, missile launch sites, and infrastructure used by Hamas. These actions are coordinated closely with ground forces, aiming to degrade Hamas's capabilities and safeguard Israeli civilians and soldiers. The military reports that these strikes are part of a broader effort to expand and deepen the offensive, with support for rescue and medical operations ongoing.

In the West Bank, Israeli forces are active, responding to daily violence involving shootings, stone-throwing, and IEDs, amidst heightened tensions following recent attacks that resulted in casualties. The Israeli government emphasizes the importance of security measures in preventing further escalation, as many Palestinians support continued resistance, with over 80% reportedly endorsing violence in recent surveys.

Meanwhile, in Lebanon, the Israel Defense Forces conducted a drone strike in the Houla area near the border, reportedly killing one individual. Tensions remain high along the northern border, with Hezbollah and other Iran-backed groups observing developments closely, potentially complicating the security situation.

In Syria, Israeli airstrikes target Iranian-backed militias, aiming to prevent the transfer of advanced weaponry to Hezbollah and disrupt Iranian military entrenchment. The situation remains tense, with increased vigilance on all fronts.

In Iraq and Yemen, Iran continues to support proxy groups engaged in hostile activities against Israel and regional stability. Notably, Yemen’s Houthis have fired multiple ballistic missiles toward Israel, with some intercepted by Israeli defenses. These attacks are seen as part of Iran’s strategy to project influence and undermine regional peace, especially amid the Gaza conflict.

Internationally, the United States has issued a stark warning to Israel, suggesting that continued military action in Gaza could jeopardize American support. Reports indicate that the Biden administration has conveyed to Netanyahu that if the conflict persists without a clear path to de-escalation, US backing may be withdrawn. This comes amid concerns over the potential for wider regional instability and the impact on global security interests.

Within Israel, domestic political debates are intensifying. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is planning to attend the upcoming State Cup soccer final at Bloomfield Stadium, a move that has sparked controversy. Critics from kibbutz communities affected by recent attacks have questioned his priorities, especially given his previous absence during violent incidents at similar events. The Prime Minister’s Office has confirmed preparations but refrains from commenting on the political implications.

In other regional news, in South Korea, a new Holocaust museum has opened in Paju, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and education to combat rising antisemitism following recent conflicts. The museum aims to foster understanding of genocide’s horrors and promote against extremism, especially in light of the surge in anti-Israel sentiment worldwide.

Additionally, a German national was detained in Tel Aviv after attempting an attack on the US Embassy, allegedly out of anger at the American government. The suspect threw materials intended for Molotov...