Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-23 at 17:05

HEADLINES
1. Israel Launches Major Gaza Offensive Amid Escalating War
2. US Security Tightens After Anti-Israel Attack in Washington
3. Record-Breaking UAE Heat Highlights Climate Crisis

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

At 1:00 PM, the Israeli military continues its multi-front campaign against Iran and its proxies, with a significant escalation inside Gaza where five Israeli divisions are currently operating. The Israel Defense Forces are targeting Hamas and Islamic Jihad infrastructure as part of Operation Gideon’s Chariots, which has intensified in recent days. An airstrike targeted a Gaza money exchange used to funnel millions of dollars to terrorist organizations, according to military reports, highlighting Israel’s effort to disrupt terror financing networks. Sirens have sounded around the border region, indicating ongoing hostilities.

In Gaza, Israeli forces are actively maneuvering throughout the territory, aiming to dismantle key terror infrastructure. Meanwhile, the conflict extends beyond Gaza, with hostilities also reported in the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen—each front presenting complex challenges to Israeli security. In Lebanon, tensions remain high as Hezbollah appears prepared for possible escalation, while in Syria and Iraq, Iran-backed militias continue their efforts to support hostile activities against Israel.

Internationally, the situation has prompted increased security measures, especially in Western capitals. In Washington, security has been heightened following the fatal shooting of two Israeli embassy staffers outside a Jewish museum. The suspect, an anti-Israel activist, shouted "Free Palestine" during the attack, fueling concerns about rising anti-Semitism amid ongoing Middle Eastern tensions. The incident has led to a nationwide review of security protocols at Jewish community centers and diplomatic missions.

Within Israel, domestic issues persist alongside the security crisis. The government faces pressure over the appointment of the new head of the Shin Bet, with Prime Minister Netanyahu defending his choice of Major-General David Zini, citing Zini’s prior warnings about a possible ground invasion. The High Court has called for a careful review of the appointment process, emphasizing the importance of judicial oversight and independence in security appointments.

Meanwhile, the political landscape is tense. Former military leader Gadi Eisenkot publicly urged Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Zini to delay certain decisions until legal clarifications are obtained, advocating for cautious action during wartime. The debate over leadership and legal procedures continues to unfold amid the ongoing conflict.

In other regional developments, the fifth round of Iran-US nuclear talks in Rome has concluded without a final agreement, while Iran’s foreign minister reported progress despite ongoing disagreements. Additionally, the US has appointed Tom Barrack, currently ambassador to Turkey, as special envoy to Syria, signaling renewed interest in regional stability and potential lifting of sanctions aimed at Syria’s reconstruction and the defeat of ISIS.

In the broader Middle East, climate change remains a pressing concern as the United Arab Emirates recorded its hottest May temperature ever at 50.4 degrees Celsius, a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to global warming. The extreme heat has affected daily life, with reports of fainting and dehydration among residents and outdoor workers.

In the United States, the tragic murder of Israeli embassy staffers in Washington has intensified security measures across the city. The suspect, an anti-Israel activist, shouted "Free Palestine" during the attack, heightening fears of antisemitic violence. Politicians across the spectrum condemned...