Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-12-21 at 02:06 cover art

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-12-21 at 02:06

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-12-21 at 02:06

Listen for free

View show details

About this listen

 HEADLINESIsrael rallies for hostages returnUS leads weeks-long ISIS hunt in SyriaIsrael detains 250 in Negev security pushThe time is now 9:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.Good evening. This is the hourly news update, providing a concise briefing on developments shaping security, policy, and life in Israel, the broader Middle East, and the global arena that touches Jewish communities and national security interests around the world.In the United States, authorities report a power outage in San Francisco affecting about 125,000 residents in a city of roughly 800,000. Utility officials from Pacific Gas and Electric say the blackout disrupted essential services as crews investigate the cause and work to restore electricity. Local officials and residents are monitoring the situation as power is restored gradually, with officials cautioning that some neighborhoods could be affected longer than others.Turning to Israel and the Jewish world, the conversation about aliyah and the future of Jewish life abroad remains prominent. An opinion piece underscored the view that many in the Jewish community feel privileged to live during a time when a Jewish state exists that offers a home to those who choose to return. The piece reflects a perspective that the modern Israeli state provides opportunities for emigration and a sense of belonging, even as global antisemitism continues to pose challenges for Jewish communities worldwide.Across Israel, families and supporters joined a national forum to press for the return of St. S. Sergeant-Major Ran Gvili, emphasizing that the campaign for all hostages remains central to national unity and security. The rally highlighted the ongoing priority placed on hostage recuperation by the Israeli public and military and the broad aim of keeping pressure on authorities and militant groups to bring every captive home.In Australia, authorities and the Jewish community marked Bondi Beach memorials for victims of a terrorist attack that targeted a Chanukah gathering. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese vowed to strengthen hate-crimes legislation as part of a broader response to antisemitic violence and terrorism. Community leaders gathered for prayers and commemoration, demonstrating resilience and a focus on security within Jewish communities abroad.Security and counterterrorism developments continue to shape the regional and international picture. In the Middle East, US officials described ongoing counterterrorism operations against ISIS in Syria following an overnight strike campaign in retaliation for an attack that killed two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter. Officials say the operation could span weeks as coalition forces pursue remaining ISIS cells and related networks that remain capable of inspirational messaging and recruitment online, even though ISIS no longer controls territory.In Australia, authorities arrested a man accused of making violent antisemitic threats aboard a flight to Sydney. Police emphasized that there are no current or impending threats to the community as the investigation continues, reflecting ongoing vigilance against antisemitic threats in national air travel.In Israel, security services and police continue to monitor cross-border and internal security threats. During ongoing operations in the Negev as part of broader efforts following Hamas’ October 7 attack, three Gazans who entered Israel have been arrested in Rahat with ammunition and suspected weapons equipment. Officials noted that, since operations began about a month ago, more than 250 suspects have been detained and 39 individuals have been removed from the Negev region, signaling concerted enforcement actions to disrupt potential threats.In Iceland, a Hanukkah menorah lighting in Reykjavík drew a small procession of observant Jews and international observers. Security was visible with armed officers and drones deployed as a precaution, a reminder of heightened security around Jewish life in parts of Europe in the wake of recent events. Iceland’s foreign minister attended and spoke in support of the community, underscoring the country’s stance against antisemitism and terrorism while reflecting the fragile balance for Jewish life in a country that has a small but growing Jewish presence. Community members described the lighting as a rare moment of visibility for Jewish life in Iceland, with families sharing traditional foods and candles amid an atmosphere of cautious optimism about safety and inclusion.Public discourse on antisemitism and security continued to circulate in analyses and opinion writing. A piece examining the risk of attacks during Jewish holidays noted how tensions and violence have prompted communities to review protective measures and the symbolism of holidays that historically unify rather than divide. The discussion reflects a broader concern that antisemitic violence remains a real and ongoing threat, ...
No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.