Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-20 at 00:05

HEADLINES
Israel Battles on Seven Fronts Amid Regional Turmoil
Hamas Hostages and US Mediation Face Uncertain Outcomes
Controversial IDF Veteran Sparks Ethical Clash in War Effort

The time is now 08:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Tonight, at 8 p.m., Israel remains fully engaged in a multi-front conflict that has reshaped its security landscape since October 7, 2023. The IDF continues its operations across seven key fronts—Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, West Bank, Iraq, Yemen, and Iran—aiming to neutralize threats and restore stability.

In Gaza, Israeli forces launched a series of targeted airstrikes throughout the night, hitting terror infrastructure east of Gaza City’s Al-Tufah neighborhood and in northern Jabalya. These strikes are part of a broader offensive dubbed Operation Gideon’s Chariots, a name rooted in biblical imagery that invokes the story of Gideon and his strategic victory over the Midianites. The operation emphasizes bravery, tactical ingenuity, and faith—qualities exemplified by Gideon’s legendary night attack involving just 300 soldiers.

Across Lebanon, Hezbollah continues its provocations, with recent exchanges of fire along the border, while in Syria, Iranian-backed militias maintain their presence, adding to the complexity of the northern theater. In the West Bank, clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian factions persist, with recent arrests and confrontations aimed at preventing escalation.

Furthermore, the conflict’s regional scope extends into Iraq and Yemen, where Iranian proxies bolster their influence, and in Iran itself, which continues to advance its nuclear program despite international sanctions. Israeli officials stress that neutralizing Iran remains a top priority, as its regional influence fuels instability.

Internationally, the United States remains actively engaged, with officials noting that recent ground movements by the IDF in Gaza have aided efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. US envoy Adam Boehler stated that while Hamas has rejected a recent deal proposed by the Witkoff-led American efforts, indirect talks with the group continue, with some progress toward a potential resolution. However, there is acknowledgment within Israeli intelligence that no guarantee exists that aid sent into Gaza will not reach Hamas or other terrorist factions.

On the domestic front, controversy surrounds Dr. Amos Sabo, a retired IDF major and medical professional, who publicly expressed a desire to participate in military actions against terrorists and posted provocative statements on social media. The Israel Medical Association’s Ethics Bureau has received multiple complaints regarding his conduct, condemning calls for violence in the name of medicine. Sabo’s past actions include protesting anti-government demonstrations with an M-16 rifle, raising questions about the boundaries of professional conduct amid wartime.

Meanwhile, Israeli leadership continues to emphasize the importance of unity and resilience. Benny Gantz highlighted that Israel’s willingness to pay a heavy price for hostage recovery underscores its strength, and he reiterated the need to maintain security superiority and bipartisan support from the United States. He also stressed that the future of Gaza should be shaped by its own people, emphasizing patience and the long-term nature of deradicalization and governance rebuilding.

In the broader international arena, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff delivered a powerful message, declaring that "evil will not triumph" and calling for global unity against Hamas, Iran, and other terrorist groups. He urged the Jewish community worldwide to stand firm against antisemitism and misinformation, emphasizing that the fight for peace is a collective effort.

Amidst these developments, the situation of...