Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-19 at 23:02

HEADLINES
1. US and Israel push for hostage breakthroughs amid Gaza chaos
2. Global condemnations escalate as Israel defies calls to halt offensive
3. Gaza casualties soar past 53,000 as ground assaults intensify

The time is now 07:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At 7 p.m., Israeli officials acknowledge the ongoing risk that aid may inadvertently reach Hamas and other terrorist groups, despite efforts to restrict it. Israeli authorities report that Hamas has rejected a proposed deal facilitated by Witkoff, and they are now engaged in direct talks with the United States to find a resolution. US envoy Adam Boehler indicated that recent movements of the Israeli Defense Forces in Gaza have contributed positively to hostage negotiations, and he emphasized that the US remains committed to securing the release of captives. Boehler also expressed that former President Donald Trump’s approach to diplomacy—willingness to engage even with problematic actors—continues to influence US strategy in the region.

Meanwhile, tensions persist over Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Britain, France, and Canada have issued a joint statement condemning what they describe as Israel’s "egregious actions" and warning of joint action if Israel does not halt its intensified offensive and lift restrictions on humanitarian aid. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded sharply, accusing these nations of rewarding Hamas and equating their stance with a threat to Israel’s security. He reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to defeating Hamas, emphasizing that the war is a battle between civilization and barbarism, and that Israel will continue its operations until total victory is achieved.

In Gaza, the toll has risen to over 53,000 dead since the conflict resumed in March, with at least 3,340 casualties reported in the latest reports. Israel’s military has increased its ground operations, aiming to dismantle Hamas’s capabilities and secure the release of hostages. US officials highlight that Hamas’s rejection of a ceasefire and its holding of hostages remain major obstacles, with some officials suggesting that the terrorist organization is the primary force delaying any resolution.

On the diplomatic front, there is movement toward increased regional normalization efforts. Boehler noted that recent visits by US officials to the Middle East have focused heavily on hostage negotiations and expanding the Abraham Accords, signaling a potential shift toward broader Arab-Israeli rapprochement. However, challenges remain, particularly with Iran-backed groups such as Kata'ib Hezbollah, which continues to hold a Russian-Israeli hostage and has threatened to impose a naval blockade on Haifa.

As the hour progresses, Israeli authorities are monitoring the complex interplay of military actions, diplomatic negotiations, and international reactions, all against the backdrop of a brutal and expanding conflict in Gaza that continues to threaten regional stability.

Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.
I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.
Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.

SOURCES
https://www.jpost.com/breaking-news/article-854656
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-854655
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-854570