Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-22 at 21:04

HEADLINES
1. Israelis protest security chief appointment amid unrest
2. Israel launches deadly strikes on Hezbollah targets
3. Iran vows to advance nuclear program despite tensions

The time is now 05:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At five in the afternoon, the situation across Israel remains highly tense and complex as the country grapples with a multi-front conflict involving Iran and its proxies, as well as domestic political and social upheavals.

In recent developments, thousands gathered in Rabin Square in Tel Aviv to protest the appointment of a new Shin Bet chief. Demonstrators lit bonfires, blocked roads, and clashes with police broke out at several locations. The protests reflect growing public concern over security policies and the government’s handling of national security appointments, especially after the Prime Minister’s recent decision to appoint David Zini as the new head of Shin Bet, despite judicial and legal opposition.

Meanwhile, in Gaza, tensions persist with ongoing Israeli military operations targeting Hamas infrastructure, with the IDF launching a wave of airstrikes across Lebanon, citing Hezbollah targets. The IDF issued a rare Arabic-language evacuation warning before striking a Hezbollah-linked building, which the military claims stored munitions and launchers. The escalation indicates a dangerous widening of hostilities on multiple fronts.

In Lebanon, reports from Rihan in the south describe recent Israeli airstrikes, underscoring the heightened risk of regional conflict. Similarly, in Syria and Iraq, Israeli military actions continue, targeting Iranian-backed militias and weapon stockpiles, amid fears of Iran’s expanding influence in the region.

Domestically, Israel faces internal political turmoil. Controversies include the appointment of the new Shin Bet chief, which has prompted legal challenges from the Movement for Quality Government, accusing the government of disregarding court rulings and judicial advice. Prominent voices, including former military officials and opposition politicians, criticize what they see as a breach of democratic norms and the rule of law.

Internationally, the United States remains engaged. President Donald Trump has expressed support for Israel’s war plans in Gaza, aligning with Prime Minister Netanyahu’s objectives to dismantle Hamas, free hostages, and implement the “Trump Plan” for Gaza. Discussions between the two leaders also covered Iran’s nuclear program, with both emphasizing the need to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.

In diplomatic and security developments, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to advancing its nuclear program, signaling continued resistance to Western efforts at diplomacy. Meanwhile, the US government revoked Harvard University’s ability to enroll foreign students, citing concerns over campus safety and antisemitism, in a rare move reflecting the heightened tensions over security and anti-Jewish sentiments.

On the cultural and social front, controversy persists. The shooting outside the Israeli Embassy in Washington, DC, resulted in the deaths of two Israeli staff members. US Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez drew criticism for her response, which omitted mention of the victims’ Jewish identity, while Congresswoman Ilhan Omar declined to comment. The suspect, Elias Rodriguez, reportedly shouted “Free, Free Palestine” after being detained, fueling fears of rising antisemitism.

In Israel’s political arena, Minister Tal Gutliv publicly attacked Gali Harrav-Meyara over security appointments, and there is intense debate over the recent judicial decisions regarding the appointment process of the new Shin Bet chief. The controversy extends to statements from security officials, with some advocating for a strong...