Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-22 at 16:06

HEADLINES
Israel Launches Multi-Front Regional War
Harrowing Gaza Battles Destroy 200 Terror Targets
Yemen Houthis Threaten Israel with Missiles

The time is now 12:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

Today, Israel faces a complex multi-front conflict involving its military operations across seven key areas: Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, the West Bank, and Iran itself. The Israel Defense Forces have reported significant activity and casualties in several of these fronts, reflecting an intensified regional confrontation.

In Gaza, the IDF has expanded its military operations as part of Operation Gideon's Chariots, with the goal of dismantling terrorist infrastructure. Since the operation began, the IDF claims to have destroyed around 200 terror targets, including underground tunnels, observation posts, and combat sites. Israeli forces have also reported the killing of dozens of terrorists in recent days, with ongoing confrontations in Khan Yunis involving face-to-face clashes.

Meanwhile, in northern Gaza, a senior IDF tank commander was severely wounded during combat. The army confirmed the soldier was evacuated for medical treatment, and his family has been notified. The ongoing fighting has led to a government-ordered evacuation of northern residents to the south, as Israel seeks to reduce its exposure to intensified hostilities.

Across the Lebanese border, Israeli military units have been maneuvering within the framework of a broader regional campaign. Reports indicate that the IDF has conducted operations involving multiple military divisions, striking targets linked to Hezbollah and other Iranian-backed groups. The situation remains tense, with fears of escalation into wider regional conflict.

In Syria and Iraq, Israeli airstrikes continue against Iranian-backed militias and weapon depots believed to be supplying hostile groups. These strikes are part of a broader effort to prevent the transfer of advanced weapons into Lebanon and Gaza, though they risk further destabilizing the region.

Yemen’s Houthis have emerged as a significant threat, with recent missile and drone attacks reaching the Gulf of Eilat for the first time and several surface-to-surface missiles launched at Israel. Despite high interception rates—over 90%—the attacks have caused psychological distress and logistical disruptions, including the suspension of many international flights into Israel. Intelligence assessments suggest that the Houthis are becoming increasingly emboldened, with a stockpile of weapons that could threaten Israeli territory.

In Lebanon, Hezbollah continues to maintain a heightened state of readiness, with ongoing exchanges of fire and military drills along the border. The group has expressed support for Palestinian factions and has hinted at potential involvement in the broader conflict.

In the West Bank, Israeli forces arrested a terror cell of 20 suspects, seizing weapons and explosives ready for use. Operations in Kalkilya and Bala aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure and apprehending individuals involved in recent attacks. These efforts come amid reports of increased violence and unrest throughout the area.

On the diplomatic front, Israeli officials have announced plans to escalate military efforts in Gaza and are urging residents in northern regions to evacuate to safer zones. International talks continue, with senior US and European representatives engaging in indirect negotiations with Iran to prevent further regional escalation. US envoy Steve Witkoff and policy planning director Michael Anton are scheduled to meet with Iranian counterparts in Rome for a fifth round of talks aimed at de-escalation.

Amid these developments, Israeli leadership faces domestic criticism over handling the crisis, with some officials questioning the...