Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-12 at 23:07 cover art

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-12 at 23:07

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-12 at 23:07

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 HEADLINESIsrael approves split of PID from prosecutorsThousands of Gaza buildings razed since ceasefireTrump imposes 25 percent tariff on IranThe time is now 6:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.Good evening. Here is the latest update on developments in Israel, the wider Middle East, and relevant global events shaping security, policy, and public risk.In Israel, the Knesset moved to restructure how investigations are conducted by approving the first reading of a bill to make the Police Investigation Department independent from the State Prosecutor’s Office. The bill would place PID as a separate department within the Justice Ministry, with the head appointed by a professional committee and a background comparable to Supreme Court qualifications, including criminal-theory expertise. The legislation would grant PID full financial and administrative independence and authorize it to indict in cases it investigates. It would extend authority to civilian volunteers in the Civilian Guard and to certain officers with minor offenses, and establish a new retired-judge post to resolve disputes between PID and other investigative bodies. Justice Minister Yariv Levin and committee chair Simcha Rothman argued the arrangement would remove conflicts of interest inherent in a body that both prosecutes and oversees police work. Supporters say the move is intended to strengthen the integrity and impartiality of investigations and ensure equality before the law. If enacted, the reform would mark a significant change in the balance of investigative power within the Israeli system.Turning to the economy and regional commerce, Maersk reported another successful Red Sea transit, signaling a cautious, stepwise return to broader navigation along the East-West corridor through the Suez Canal. The company indicated that security conditions would guide future sailings as it resumes routes that had been disrupted by past security incidents. The restoration of shipping through this corridor carries implications for freight costs and global supply chains, with several carriers previously rerouting around the Cape of Good Hope, a detour that raised transit times and costs. Analysts and shipping firms say any sustained return to regular transit could influence demand and rates in the sector.In the United States, the politics surrounding Iran remain active and evolving. A prominent narrative centers on potential options for Iran policy in response to ongoing protests and Tehran’s leadership. The Wall Street Journal reported that Vice President candidate JD Vance and other senior officials have pressed President Trump toward a new round of talks with Iran as a last option before considering military action. The discussions come as US policy signals continue to weigh sanctions, diplomacy, and deterrence. In a parallel development, President Trump announced a 25 percent tariff on any country doing business with Iran, describing the order as final and conclusive. The administration and other sources emphasize that the decision intersects with broader debates about how to address unrest in Iran, deter aggression, and manage regional security risks. The United States also faces questions about how such unilateral measures influence its allies and partners in the region.In the broader region, Israel’s leadership has reiterated a stance focused on security and regional stability. President Isaac Herzog used a public gathering with faith leaders to emphasize the importance of safeguarding all communities in Israel and to highlight the enduring relevance of the Abraham Accords as a framework for peace and prosperity. He also expressed concern about the exodus of young Christian families from Israel, underscoring the need to ensure security and welcome for minority communities while continuing humanitarian outreach and interfaith cooperation. Religious and community leaders stressed the ongoing hope for a durable peace in the Holy Land, even as regional tensions persist and security challenges remain.International technology and information flows figure prominently in regional dynamics as well. Starlink service, beamed from SpaceX satellites, has continued to provide limited internet access inside Iran even as the government imposes a nationwide blackout amid protests. Independent observers note the service’s patchy reach and possible interference or monitoring by authorities. The use of satellite internet by Iranians amidst information controls underscores how technology intersects with civil unrest and government responses. In related technology and culture news, Israel has been preparing for Eurovision, drawing opponents to Vienna for the semi-final slated for May 12. The event is notably crowded by political considerations surrounding Israel’s participation, with several European broadcasters joining boycotts in protest of the Gaza war. The glass-half-full view is that the event ...
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