Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-21 at 00:07

HEADLINES
Saudi Arabia and Qatar vie to replace Israel as US regional allies
Israel’s resilience persists amid shifting Middle East alliances
US criticizes Gulf AI chip deals over security risks

The time is now 08:03 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Good evening. The Middle East remains a region of intense activity and strategic maneuvering. Recently, high-profile visits and diplomatic signals have highlighted shifting alliances and the ongoing contest for influence in the region. During a recent trip to the Gulf, former US President Donald Trump was given an exceptionally warm reception, with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani personally greeting him. Air Force One was escorted by Saudi fighter jets into Riyadh, and the president was hosted in opulent palaces, with elaborate ceremonies and sumptuous dinners. This spectacle seemed to serve as a clear message: Saudi Arabia and Qatar are vying to become the primary regional allies, potentially at the expense of Israel.

Analysts suggest that such displays of deference and grandeur are designed to catch Trump’s attention and influence US regional policy. Some commentators posit that this could signal a move to replace Israel as America's main Middle Eastern partner. However, experts note that Israel’s unique history of resilience and technological innovation—fighting on seven fronts and exceeding expectations since its 1948 founding—sets it apart. Israel's ability to advance in military, medical, and technological fields continues unabated despite persistent threats, including from Hamas and other adversaries. Its commitment to supporting allies and even caring for enemies in times of need underscores its reliability and moral principles.

Meanwhile, the region remains unstable, with ongoing conflicts and security concerns. Within Israel, security measures are also evolving. In the town of Omer, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir toured the area, addressing residents’ concerns over violence, theft, and public safety. He emphasized that security forces are increasing patrols and emergency squads—raising the number from 43 to over a thousand in recent months. Residents shared personal experiences of attacks, prompting Ben-Gvir to consider easing gun permit restrictions and establishing standby classes. The minister personally highlighted the threats he has faced, noting multiple assassination attempts, and stressed that progress is being made in strengthening sovereignty and governance.

Internationally, the cultural heritage of Iraq has seen significant developments. Following investigations into antiquities trafficked by British dealer Robin Symes, the Metropolitan Museum of Art has returned three ancient artifacts—a Sumerian alabaster vessel and two Babylonian sculptures—to Iraq. These items, dating from roughly 2600 to 1600 BCE, were confirmed to have been looted and trafficked. The return was a joint effort involving US authorities and Iraqi officials, highlighting ongoing efforts to restore stolen cultural treasures and combat illicit antiquities trade.

On the technological front, US lawmakers and officials are raising concerns over recent agreements with Gulf states. Senators Warren and Schumer have criticized plans to supply high-end AI chips to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, warning that relaxing export controls could benefit China and Russia and pose national security risks. The Biden administration is reportedly moving toward country-specific negotiations to regulate such exports, aiming to balance economic interests with security considerations. Meanwhile, tech companies like Nvidia defend the deals, emphasizing that AI infrastructure in the Middle East will be built securely using American technology, and that the agreements will stimulate domestic economic growth.

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