Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-24 at 18:03

HEADLINES
Hamas Faces Severe Financial Collapse Amid Strikes
Israeli Protesters Demand Ceasefire and Unity
Extreme Heatwaves Hit Middle East, Climate Crisis Worsens

The time is now 02:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At 2:00 PM, the Israeli nation is closely monitoring a series of critical developments across multiple fronts in the ongoing conflict, as tensions remain high in the region. Thousands gathered in Tel Aviv's Habima Square to demand an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the return of all hostages held by Hamas. Protesters criticized the government's handling of the war, specifically criticizing Prime Minister Netanyahu and the appointment of the Shin Bet chief, calling for a general strike and unity among opposition leaders.

Meanwhile, reports indicate that Hamas in Gaza is experiencing its most severe financial crisis since its founding in 1987. The group faces significant difficulties paying salaries to civil servants and military operatives, with civil payments drastically reduced and some operatives unpaid for nearly three months. The leadership vacuum in Gaza is deepening, following a series of Israeli targeted killings aimed at dismantling Hamas’ command structure. Despite these challenges, Hamas continues to operate, though its capacity is hampered.

In the West Bank, Israeli and Palestinian Authority crackdowns have limited Hamas’s operational reach, with many cells dismantled or arrested. Support for Hamas appears to be waning in Gaza and the West Bank amid the economic hardships and ongoing violence. Abroad, Hamas’s financial and administrative capabilities are also strained, especially in Lebanon, where pressure mounts to disarm the group.

In Israel, military operations continue around Gaza, with Israeli engineering units working near Al-Awda Hospital in Jabalia, where Palestinians remain present. Reports surface of ongoing Israeli strikes, including a notable incident in Khan Younis, where a recent Israeli attack reportedly resulted in the deaths of nine children of Dr. Ala’a Al-Najjar, a medical professional whose family has become a symbol of civilian suffering.

In other regional news, the United Arab Emirates has recorded its highest temperature for May at 51.6 degrees Celsius, just shy of the country’s all-time high, highlighting the extreme climate conditions affecting the region. Experts warn that such heatwaves are likely to become more frequent and intense as part of global climate change, with significant impacts on outdoor workers and water resources.

In the broader geopolitical arena, former US President Donald Trump emphasized that the coming days are crucial for resolving the conflict in Ukraine, indicating the high stakes and international attention focused on the volatile region.

Amidst these developments, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot met with Agam Berger, a former hostage released after 482 days, who stated that diplomatic solutions are no longer viable against Hamas. She emphasized the necessity of military action, asserting that all hostages must be freed immediately and Hamas must disarm, refusing the inclusion of Hamas in Gaza’s future political landscape.

As the situation evolves rapidly, Israeli authorities continue to apprehend suspects linked to ongoing security threats. Recent arrests include three individuals in Ashalmua under a night-time operation, and security forces remain vigilant across the country.

This ongoing conflict remains dynamic, with civilian and military casualties mounting on both sides, and the international community watching closely. The Israeli government reaffirms its commitment to defending its citizens while seeking a path toward stability amid the chaos. Reporting from the region, this is your update.

Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing...