Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-11-21 at 01:06 cover art

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-11-21 at 01:06

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-11-21 at 01:06

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 HEADLINES- White House Defends Trump Piggy Remark- Israel India Renew FTA Talks- Israel Rolls Out West Bank Security CrackdownThe time is now 8:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.The White House defended President Trump’s remark referring to a female reporter as “piggy,” with press secretary Karoline Leavitt saying American voters reelected him for his frankness and that reporters should appreciate his openness in answering questions. The administration framed the comment as part of a broader expectation of direct communication from the president, while continuing to defend the candidate’s agenda.In economic diplomacy, Israel and India renewed talks toward a Free Trade Agreement, with an accompanying memorandum of understanding that strengthens strategic ties between the two democracies. Officials described the move as a “match made in heaven” for advancing trade, investment, and technology collaboration, underscoring shared interests in technology, energy, and regional stability.Iran’s president described the potential relocation of the capital as unavoidable given overcrowding and water shortages, saying the government has identified the southeastern Makran region as a possible site for a new capital. No timeline was provided, but the statement illustrates ongoing debates inside Tehran about governance and resource pressures amid regional tensions.Security agencies in Israel are pushing a new plan to counter surging nationalist violence and “Jewish terrorism” in the West Bank. The plan, discussed at a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Netanyahu, envisions a special investigative team focused on severe cases, expanded military and police deployment in friction zones, and the creation of 14 reinforced security hubs. It also calls for greater surveillance, more cameras, and enforcement tools such as property seizures, fines, and revocation of gun licenses. Shin Bet chief David Barnea reportedly emphasized taking the issue on with “full force” and closer interagency cooperation. While some recommendations await political approval, officials warned that the government is unlikely to revive administrative detention in the West Bank, a policy rolled back a year ago for Jewish suspects. The crackdown follows a spike in violence, including an arson attack on a vehicle scrapyard in Huwara and a broader wave of incidents recorded over the past year, with UN data indicating October had the most such attacks since 2006.Separately, settler activity continued near Bethlehem, as a new outpost named Shdema took shape with the backing of the Gush Etzion Regional Council. Three families were described as the initial residents, and officials framed the site as a strategic link between the Gush Etzion bloc and Jerusalem. Anti-settlement watchdog Peace Now condemned the move as unauthorized by the government and urged authorities to investigate the regional council’s involvement. The area had previously been designated for a US-funded hospital serving Palestinian communities, a plan that has faced resistance from settlers.The violence narrative in the West Bank sits alongside international reactions to the broader security situation. US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee condemned the surge in settler violence as “terrorism,” and Prime Minister Netanyahu warned of forceful action against riots targeting Israeli soldiers and Palestinians. IDF and police authorities say few arrests have resulted from recent attacks, and charges have been rare, complicating efforts to deter extremist acts.In related regional security dynamics, Israel’s security posture continues to contrast with some neighboring military moves. Reports describe strategic discussions in the United States about arms sales in the region, including F-35 aircraft and associated capabilities. Sources familiar with US policy noted that Saudi Arabia’s inventory would be of a different caliber than Israel’s, with debate over how advanced and interoperable such systems would be, reflecting ongoing sensitivities about regional balance and interoperability with allied air defenses.In New York City, a protest outside Park East Synagogue marked a notable escalation in anti-Israel demonstrations. Masked speakers urged attendees to intimidate Jews, signaling a shift in the rhetoric surrounding protests in major urban centers. The event drew a heavy police presence, and city officials, including the incoming mayor, condemned antisemitic rhetoric while emphasizing protection for houses of worship. The episode highlighted ongoing concerns about security and hate crimes in urban America, and the tension between free expression and aggression against Jewish communities.On the diplomatic front, Lebanon’s foreign minister urged Iran to hold a meeting in a neutral country to foster constructive dialogue aimed at resolving outstanding differences between the two states. The call ...
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