Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-26 at 05:09 cover art

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-26 at 05:09

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-01-26 at 05:09

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 HEADLINESGaza Phase II begins hostage fate uncertainIran warns any attack triggers all-out war4.4 quake strikes Turkey injuries reportedThe time is now 12:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.This is the hourly news update. We begin with developments shaping the Middle East, politics, and global security, along with notable social and cultural stories from around the world.In Washington and Jerusalem, the Gaza peace process moves into its second phase, though observers say Israel’s leverage remains limited. Phase II of the plan, rooted in the framework President Donald Trump outlined, centers on demilitarization, governance, and reconstruction of Gaza. A board overseeing the process includes Qatar and Turkey, a composition that has drawn questions in Jerusalem about how disarmament of Hamas will be ensured and how security guarantees will be maintained. Officials in Israel have emphasized the need for a “day after” approach that preserves security and ensures Hamas is excluded from any rebuilding effort. One major point of contention remains the fate of the last Israeli hostage held in Gaza and the timing of the body’s return, which has been repeatedly cited as a prerequisite by Israeli leadership for moving forward. Reports also indicate that the Rafah crossing could be reopened to Gazans in some capacity, but Israel has flagged the need to limit cross-border movement to preserve security, a stance that could clash with steps contemplated by the Board of Peace.Israeli security and civilian travel policy have evolved in response to concerns about potential escalation. In a bid to ease traveler anxiety, El Al and Arkia have announced options for full credit refunds for cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and Israir has introduced a “cancellation shield” allowing refunds up to three days before departure for a fee. The changes come as airlines assess risk in a tense security environment, including regional flights and airspace considerations. Israel continues to monitor potential threats as regional tensions persist, with some international carriers adjusting routes and schedules in light of looming concerns.In other regional security news, a 4.4 magnitude earthquake struck northwest Turkey overnight, centered in the Sındırgı district near Balıkesir, with tremors felt across surrounding provinces. There are early reports of damage and injuries, underscoring how natural disasters can compound regional stability concerns in a time of heightened alert.Australia faced a flood of demonstrations on its national day as thousands gathered in Sydney’s Hyde Park for the annual Invasion Day rally, a mass event marking Indigenous perspectives on Australia Day. The gathering began with a tribute to victims of gun violence in a rural New South Wales town, and Indigenous speakers highlighted land rights, the high number of Indigenous deaths in police custody, and calls for unity in the face of rising nationalist sentiment. Separately, anti-immigration protests drew hundreds as part of demonstrations organized by groups including March for Australia. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese used the day to urge unity, while a Sydney Morning Herald poll indicated a growing number of Australians favoring keeping the date on January 26. The debate underscores a long-running national discussion about the meaning of Australia Day for Indigenous communities versus broader national identity.Across Europe and the Atlantic, voices on Israel’s security and regional policy continue to circulate in editorial and public discourse. A prominent Israel-focused opinion piece argues that Denmark should model its two-state approach at home as a means of demonstrating commitment to a two-state framework for Israel and its neighbors. The piece notes Denmark’s role on the UN Security Council and suggests that real efforts at peace require domestic alignment with two-state principles, while reflecting on wider international examples. The broader argument invites other countries to examine how universal principles are implemented domestically, and it highlights the political complexities involved in aligning international rhetoric with national policy.In the United Kingdom, a Holocaust survivor has spoken candidly about rising antisemitism ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day. Joanna Millan, now 83, recalled the Windermere Children who were sheltered in England after World War II and warned that antisemitism is resurfacing with greater openness, including rhetoric linked to anti-Zionism. Millan said she would consider leaving the UK if she were younger, describing a fear for Jewish safety that she believes is growing. Her reflections come as communities reflect on the enduring lessons of the Holocaust and the need to guard against hatred in all its forms.In the Middle East and beyond, tensions surrounding the Gaza conflict and broader regional alignments continue to shape ...
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