Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-21 at 17:05

HEADLINES
Israel Strikes Lebanon as Cross-Border Tensions Rise
Gaza Rockets Intercepted Amid Ongoing Hostilities
Iran Vows Nuclear Progress Despite U.S. Negotiations

The time is now 01:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

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Today, Israel remains under intense multi-front pressure as its security situation continues to escalate across several key areas. In the north, reports confirm that Israeli aircraft targeted a vehicle in southern Lebanon, resulting in the death of at least one individual. This marks the third Israeli strike in Lebanon today, with each attack ending in fatalities, underscoring the ongoing threat from Hezbollah and Iranian-backed groups operating in the region.

Meanwhile, in Gaza, tensions persist with rocket intercepts by the Israeli Iron Dome missile defense system. A projectile launched from northern Gaza was successfully intercepted over Ashkelon, with no injuries reported. Israeli forces also conducted airstrikes following warnings of an incoming missile, highlighting the ongoing exchange of fire in the area. The Israeli military continues to respond to threats, including a rocket fired from Gaza that was intercepted after crossing into Israeli territory.

In the West Bank, incidents of stone-throwing violence have surged following a deadly terror shooting that claimed the life of a young woman. The IDF reports increased attacks targeting Israeli drivers, leading to the initiation of a security fence around the Palestinian village of Sinji, near Eli. Israeli authorities are actively working to bolster defenses amid a wave of terrorist activity.

Further south, in southern Israel, sirens sounded in the Ashkelon region, prompting residents to seek shelter. The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed the interception of a missile launched from Gaza, and preliminary reports indicate no injuries or damage. An additional rocket was intercepted over Ashkelon, consistent with ongoing hostilities.

The situation along Israel’s eastern borders also remains tense, with reports of Israeli aircraft striking a vehicle in southern Lebanon's Ain Eitan area. This strike follows multiple incidents of cross-border fire, including warning shots fired during a foreign diplomatic visit to Jenin, where IDF troops responded after the delegation diverted from an approved route into a combat zone. The IDF is investigating the incident, which drew international attention and Palestinian condemnation.

On the diplomatic front, relations with South Africa are strained amid concerns over alleged persecution of white farmers, with US President Donald Trump expressing skepticism about South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. During a joint press conference, Trump stated he does not expect the court case to result in significant action, citing ongoing concerns about human rights issues in South Africa and broader geopolitical considerations.

In the United States, public support for Israel remains strong, with a recent Harvard CAPS/Harris poll indicating that 77 percent of Americans across political lines support Israel over Hamas. Support among older Americans exceeds 90 percent, though younger age groups show more divided opinions, raising questions about future political dynamics.

Meanwhile, in international developments, Iran’s foreign minister reiterated Tehran’s commitment to uranium enrichment, asserting that Iran will continue its nuclear program regardless of negotiations. The next round of nuclear talks between Iran and the United States is scheduled for May 23 in Rome, as Iran intensifies its pursuit of nuclear capabilities.

In related security updates, the IDF is actively investigating warning shots fired during a foreign diplomatic visit to Jenin, where the delegation entered a closed, active combat...