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

HEADLINES
1. Gaza Battles Rage as Civilians Flee and Protest
2. UK France Canada Threaten Sanctions Over Israeli Settlements
3. Biden’s Prostate Cancer Diagnosis Sparks Political Concerns

The time is now 02:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At two in the afternoon, the Israeli security situation remains intense and complex on multiple fronts. In Gaza, the Israel Defense Forces conducted strikes targeting Hamas operatives in Nuseirat, destroying a command and control center used for planning attacks against civilians and soldiers. Meanwhile, in Gaza’s southern regions, thousands of residents evacuated Khan Yunis following IDF warnings, but protests have erupted, with many calling for an end to the conflict and the removal of Hamas from power. Demonstrators chanted slogans such as "Hamas, out, out!" and urged for peace, reflecting the rising public frustration amid ongoing hostilities.

On the diplomatic front, Israel’s delegation continues to stay in Qatar despite the lack of progress in ceasefire negotiations. Sources indicate that Israel is awaiting Hamas’s response to the Witkoff framework, with key issues including Hamas’s demand for guarantees that the US will ensure Israel does not resume fighting. The situation remains fluid, with no definitive breakthrough yet, and discussions are ongoing about potential further steps depending on Hamas’s reply.

Internationally, the United Kingdom, France, and Canada have issued a joint statement condemning the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank. They also warned that they may impose sanctions if Israel does not halt its military operations in Gaza and lift restrictions on humanitarian aid. These countries expressed their support for a two-state solution and called for immediate de-escalation.

In the broader Middle East context, tensions persist. The Israeli delegation in Doha is still engaged in talks, awaiting Hamas’s stance on the proposed ceasefire framework. Meanwhile, regional actors remain deeply divided; Egypt continues to mediate, balancing condemnation of Israel’s actions with efforts to prevent further escalation.

Within Israel, domestic security remains a priority. A recent incident involved a German national who was detained after attempting to throw Molotov cocktails at the US Embassy in Tel Aviv, citing anger at the American government. Security forces foiled the attack, which underscores ongoing threats to diplomatic missions amid the volatile atmosphere.

In other news, in the West Bank, ongoing violence persists. Reports indicate that Israeli soldiers recently punished reservists who refused to re-enter Gaza, with some receiving suspended sentences after requesting rear-line positions due to fatigue from continuous fighting. Tensions also remain high among local populations, with frequent reports of shootings, stone-throwing, and explosive devices in Palestinian communities.

Turning to international politics, US President Joe Biden’s health continues to draw attention. Biden, the oldest president in American history, was diagnosed last Friday with prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. Doctors expressed surprise that the diagnosis was not made earlier, given screening standards. Biden’s aides dismiss concerns about his mental capacity, and he publicly reaffirmed his ability to serve. Nonetheless, questions about transparency and his health status linger, especially following a new book questioning his mental acuity during his final months in office. Biden has thanked supporters for their sympathy, emphasizing resilience amid personal and national challenges.

Lastly, in the realm of cultural and political commentary, recent reports highlight regional perceptions of US diplomacy. Some Arab analysts interpret Donald Trump’s recent dealings with Iran-backed militias and Islamist...