Edited by: TJVNews.com

In a recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Ali Bagheri Kani, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister, issued a stern warning to Israel on Monday, cautioning against any retaliation for Iran’s significant military strike over the weekend, as was reported by Israel National News. According to reports from the IRNA news agency, this confrontation stemmed from an Israeli attack on April 1st on the consular section of the Iranian embassy in Damascus.

Bagheri Kani emphasized that the Israeli action had crossed a critical boundary, thereby legitimizing Iran’s “serious test” of its military and defense capabilities. According to the information provided in the INN report, he articulated a clear threat to Israel, stating that any further provocations would be met with an immediate and severe response, not measured in days or hours, but in seconds, indicating the high level of readiness and the swift nature of Iran’s military reaction capabilities.

The context for these developments includes a massive assault from Iran, with reports citing the launch of approximately 300 missiles and drones directed at Israeli territory. This barrage marks one of the most substantial direct confrontations between Iran and Israel to date, reflecting a significant escalation in their longstanding indirect conflicts throughout the region.

Further intensifying the situation, The Wall Street Journal highlighted U.S. officials’ beliefs that Israel is poised to respond to Iran’s attacks imminently. The INN report indicates that this speculation was seemingly confirmed when IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi visited the Nevatim Airbase, which suffered very light damages in the Iranian offensive. During his visit, Halevi declared that the Iranian attack would not go unanswered, signaling potential Israeli military actions on the horizon.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, alongside top officials, has been in continuous deliberations regarding the nation’s next steps. The AP reported that despite the anticipation of a decisive action, the government has remained silent on its plans for two consecutive days.

During a conversation with House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Netanyahu asserted Israel’s resolve to defend itself. “Israel will do whatever is required to defend itself,” he stated, reinforcing the nation’s stance on self-defense amidst growing international pressures, as was noted in the AP report.

At the Nevatim air base, where IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi and army spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari addressed the media, the message was clear. Israel retains the prerogative to respond on its own terms, at a time of its choosing, as per the AP report.

Internationally, the response to the situation has been cautious. The United States, in particular, has called for restraint from Israel. The AP reported that Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, emphasized the U.S. position in a briefing, noting that while Israel has the sovereign right to determine its response, escalation is not desirable. “We don’t want to see escalation, but we obviously will take necessary measures to protect our forces in the region,” Ryder stated, reflecting the delicate balance the U.S. seeks to maintain in the region, as was detailed in the AP report. He added that the U.S. would stay in close consultation with Israeli partners to avoid a wider regional conflict.

John Kirby, a spokesman for the National Security Council, also emphasized the autonomy of Israel in deciding its response to the Iranian attacks. “We are not involved in their decision-making process about a potential response,” Kirby stated, as was indicated in the AP report. He shifted the onus of disclosure onto Israel while maintaining a stance of detachment concerning operational details. This approach calls attention to the delicate balance the U.S. seeks to maintain; supporting its allies without overt involvement in their tactical decisions.

Also on Tuesday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken reinforced this position by asserting that the U.S. does not seek further escalation in the region, yet remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting Israel’s security. Blinken’s remarks about the necessity of blending “strength and wisdom” as two sides of the same coin reveal the U.S.’s strategy of combining diplomatic efforts with defense commitments to manage the situation prudently.

An essential aspect of these efforts involves bolstering the alliances between Israel and moderate Arab states, a long-term U.S. objective that has seen significant progress in recent years. According to the information contained in the AP report, this cooperation largely operates under the aegis of the U.S. Central Command (Centcom), which oversees military operations throughout the Middle East and facilitates collaboration with militaries from Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and other nations in the region.

The report in the AP said that Halevi highlighted the international cooperation that took place, noting that the Iranian attack, paradoxically, opened new avenues for regional collaboration. This incident demonstrated a notable level of at least tacit cooperation with Saudi Arabia, as evidenced by the flight paths of the intercepted weapons that traversed Saudi airspace—a detail that illustrates the changing dynamics and possible shifts in regional alliances.

The Iranian assault marked a significant escalation given the historical backdrop of enmity that traces back to Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution. Iran’s aggressive stance was showcased by its launching of numerous drones and missiles, of which Israel intercepted 99% of them.

In the tense and complex aerial landscape over the Middle East, the State of Israel’s defensive operations are spearheaded by the meticulously coordinated efforts of the Aerial Control Unit and the Control Desk at the Operations Center, as was explained in the AP report. These units are integral to Israel’s strategic defense, tasked with safeguarding the nation’s airspace through vigilant monitoring, rapid response to threats, and the precise deployment of military assets.

During the critical 12-hour period marked by heightened threats, the personnel at the Control Unit and Control Desk were thrust into a relentless operational tempo. The information in the AP report said that their duties encompassed the deployment of dozens of aircraft for interception missions, the launch of multiple missile interceptors, the dissemination of public warnings, and the strategic management of the nation’s aerial defenses. This intense activity was necessitated by an unprecedented volume of hostile targets aimed at Israeli territory, which demanded an immediate and well-coordinated defense response.

Lt. Col. A, the commander of the Aerial Control Unit, described the night between Saturday and Sunday as historic due to the sheer scale of the threats, the AP reported. The control unit’s personnel were crucial in identifying and tracking these threats, orchestrating the country’s air defense resources to neutralize the incoming dangers effectively. Their efforts ensured that all potential threats to Israeli skies were intercepted and neutralized, showcasing the critical role and high stakes of their responsibilities.

On Tuesday, it was reported that a targeted military action was carried out by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in the area of Kfar Dounine, where an IDF aircraft successfully struck Muhammad Hussein Mustafa Shechory. According to a report on the INN web site, Shechory was the Commander of the Rockets and Missiles Unit of Hezbollah’s Radwan Forces, operating in Lebanon’s central and western regions. He was known for planning and orchestrating rocket and missile launches towards Israel, making him a high-value target in efforts to dismantle hostile operations aimed at Israeli territory.

During the same strike, another key operative, Mahmoud Ibrahim Fadel-Allah, also affiliated with Hezbollah’s Rockets and Missiles Unit, was eliminated, the INN report said. These surgical strikes are indicative of Israel’s proactive stance in neutralizing threats at their source, thereby preventing potential escalations and maintaining regional security.

On a tumultuous Tuesday along Israel’s northern border, INN reported that the serene routine was shattered by the piercing sound of sirens and the menacing threat of incoming rockets. The region suddenly became the foreground of a new surge in hostilities.

The areas affected included Kiryat Shmonah, Meron, Safsufa, Hagoshrim, Beit Hillel, Avdon, Manot, and Eilon. Specifically, Mt. Meron was targeted with ten rockets; some missed their targets while others were successfully intercepted by Israel’s aerial defense systems. The rocket attacks did not lead to any casualties but did result in infrastructure damage, the report indicated. In Kiryat Shmonah, four rockets struck, causing minor damage to properties and vehicles, hit by shrapnel. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, though the psychological impact was palpable as two individuals were treated for shock.

In response to the rocket fire, IDF forces promptly launched counterstrikes targeting the sources of the rocket launches. These retaliatory attacks were aimed not only at neutralizing immediate threats but also at sending a stern message of deterrence. IDF aircraft carried out several missions targeting Hezbollah infrastructure and personnel across southern Lebanon, further escalating the military response to the attacks from across the border.

In a striking display of dissent, a group of Iranian activists, both within the country and abroad, recently expressed their vehement opposition to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) through a letter that was notably published by the BBC, as was reported on Tuesday by INN. The letter, a bold proclamation under the watchful eye of a repressive regime, vehemently declares “No to warmongering!” highlighting a critical perspective that the ongoing conflicts are perceived more as endeavors benefiting the government rather than the nation itself.

This outspoken criticism comes at a time when Iran has seen a significant ramp-up in police activity in Tehran. Officially, this increase is part of an enforcement campaign around Islamic dress codes—a perennial subject of contention within the nation, the INN report noted. However, the underlying intent appears more aligned with stifling dissent and preventing any burgeoning resistance against the regime’s authority.

Amidst this tense backdrop, some Iranians have taken to more direct forms of protest. Graffiti with messages like “Israel, strike the supreme leader’s [Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s] house,” and “Israel hit them, they lack the courage to retaliate,” have appeared on city walls, INN reported. These messages, risky and provocative, illustrate a deep-seated frustration and a daring call for external intervention against the regime’s top leadership.

In contrast, the government’s own propaganda efforts aim to redirect the narrative and boost nationalistic fervor. Billboards declaring “Tel Aviv is our battleground, not Tehran” seek to unify public sentiment against external foes rather than internal grievances, as per the INN report. Meanwhile, the IRGC’s recent actions have been met with celebration by supporters of the Islamic Republic, with banners like “the next slap will be fiercer” aimed at intimidating Israel.

Yet, amidst the governmental bravado and the public displays of defiance, the sentiment among many Iranians remains complex and nuanced. One Iranian woman, conveying her thoughts in a voice message, justified the attack on Israel as a preventive measure against further killings of Iranian commanders, the report pointed out. Conversely, another voice message captured a broader sentiment of disenchantment with the regime: “Iranians themselves are in a state of war with the current regime. We harbor no animosity towards any nation, including Israel.”

INN also reported that as fears of regional conflict intensify, many Iranians, grappling with an already strained economy, are rushing to supermarkets and gas stations, driven by the instinct to hoard essential supplies in preparation for the worst.

This sense of crisis is not only manifesting in physical queues but also in the digital realm. Iranians are increasingly using social media as a platform to express their opposition to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), leveraging the hashtag #IRGCterrorists to urge the international community to recognize and boycott the IRGC as a terrorist organization. This digital campaign reflects a profound frustration with the IRGC’s role in both domestic and international arenas, seen by many as a perpetuator of conflict and hardship rather than a protector of national interests.

Ali Karimi, a popular Iranian soccer player who now resides outside Iran, has also added his voice to the chorus of dissent. The INN report said that in a symbolic gesture, Karimi posted a photo of intertwined hands overlaid with the Israeli flag and the pre-1979 Iranian flag—a flag that represents Iran’s national identity prior to the Islamic revolution. Accompanying this powerful image, Karimi’s message was clear and poignant: “We are Iran, not the Islamic Republic.” His statement not only challenges the current regime’s legitimacy but also expresses a broader sentiment held by many Iranians who feel that their country’s identity and aspirations are being stifled under theocratic rule.

Karimi’s actions and the widespread use of the #IRGCterrorists hashtag are emblematic of a larger movement within Iran—a movement that seeks to reclaim the country’s identity from the clutches of a regime many view as oppressive. These expressions of dissent, both subtle and overt, signal a critical shift in public sentiment and underline the deep divisions between the Iranian state and its citizens. As the international community watches these developments unfold, the voices of ordinary Iranians are resonating louder, calling for recognition, support, and, most importantly, change.

(Additional reporting by: Fern Sidman)

Edited by: TJVNews.com

In a significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Israel has reportedly initiated preparations for a decisive military strike against Iran. According to a report on Monday in the New York Post, this decision follows intense deliberations in two war cabinet meetings, responding to a substantial attack involving 350 suicide drones and missiles that targeted Israeli territory. According to Israel’s Channel 12 news, a report subsequently echoed across various local media outlets indicated that the nation’s air force is gearing up for a counter-strike that promises to send a clear and forceful message to Iran.

The focus of Israel’s planned retaliation involves its sophisticated air force, leveraging an arsenal that includes advanced US-made F-16, F-15, and F-35 fighter jets. As was reported by the New York Post, these aircraft represent the pinnacle of aerial military technology, capable of precise, long-range strikes. The preparation of these warplanes indicates Israel’s intent to target critical Iranian assets directly, though specific targets or a timeline for the strike were not disclosed in the reports.

The decision to prepare for a counter-strike comes amidst international calls for restraint. President Joe Biden, along with other global allies, has reportedly urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to exercise caution, emphasizing that the U.S. would not support a retaliatory attack, as per the information in the Post report. This stance places Israel in a delicate position, balancing its imperative to respond to Iranian provocations with the need to maintain strategic international relationships.

The motive behind Israel’s planned strike is not merely retaliatory but also a firm declaration that attacks of such significant magnitude will not be tolerated. Detailed in the Post report was that the leadership in Tel Aviv is acutely aware of the stakes involved. While aiming to assert its defensive posture, it is also cautious of igniting a broader regional conflict. The message is clear: Israel seeks to defend its sovereignty and ensure the security of its citizens without escalating the situation into a full-scale war.

Further adding to the complexity of the situation, Israel’s military chief, Lt. Gen Herzi Halevi, has affirmed that Iran’s aggressive actions will not go unanswered. However, the Post report said that Halevi has been reticent regarding the specifics of the response or its timing, likely reflecting a strategic ambiguity intended to keep adversaries on edge while still managing diplomatic pressures.

During a White House press briefing, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby offered a stark assessment of the situation, suggesting that the attack not only failed to achieve its intended impact but also left Israel in a stronger strategic position, the report in the Post pointed out. This commentary reflects the complex interplay of military actions, international diplomacy, and regional stability.

John Kirby’s remarks at the White House called attention to the failure of Iran’s aggressive strategy, labeling it as both spectacular and embarrassing. Such strong wording from a high-ranking U.S. official highlights the perceived ineffectiveness of the attack and suggests a bolstering of Israel’s defensive posture and international standing as a result, as was suggested in the Post report. Kirby’s statement emphasized that despite Iran’s intentions, Israel remains a robust ally of the United States, situated in a better strategic position than before the attack.

The briefing also touched upon the sensitive topic of Israel’s potential military response. Kirby carefully navigated questions about whether the U.S. would be briefed ahead of any Israeli action, stating that it remains an Israeli decision how and whether to respond, the Post reported. This stance not only respects Israel’s sovereignty in making strategic military decisions but also places the onus of retaliation and its ramifications squarely on Israeli leadership.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant reportedly communicated to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin that Israel has no choice but to retaliate against Iran. Noted in the Post report was that this communication, revealed by Axios correspondent Barak Ravid, indicates the seriousness with which Israel views the assault and its implications for national security. The assertion of having “no choice” reflects a strong commitment to maintaining a stance of deterrence, underscoring the gravity of the threat perceived by Israeli officials.

The strike that precipitated this intense period of military engagement targeted General Mohammad Reza Zahedi, identified by Israeli intelligence as a crucial figure in planning the Hamas led October 7 attack on Israel which resulted in over 1,100 casualties, according to the Post report. This incident not only marked a significant escalation in regional tensions but also set the stage for a broader conflict involving multiple global actors.

The urgency and complexity of the threat from Iran forced Israel to adjust its military strategies significantly. One such adjustment was the delay of a planned military incursion in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. This decision, as reported by The Times of Israel, shows the strategic dilemmas facing Israeli defense planners, who must balance immediate threats with ongoing military objectives in Gaza. The postponement reflects not only the immediate tactical requirements dictated by the Iranian assault but also a recalibration of priorities in light of evolving regional dynamics.

The incident and the subsequent military responses highlight several key aspects of Middle Eastern geopolitics and global military strategy. First, the targeting of a high-ranking military official like General Zahedi escalates the conflict to a new level of direct confrontation between state actors, moving beyond proxy engagements which have typified Iranian and Israeli confrontations in the past, as per the information in the Post report. Secondly, the successful defense against Iranian missile attacks demonstrates the advanced capabilities and preparedness of Israel’s missile defense systems, likely bolstered by intelligence and logistical support from its allies.

After Hezbollah attack on Israeli town leaves three injured, IDF kills terrorist commander in airstrike.

By: World Israel News Staff

A senior Hezbollah terrorist was killed in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon Tuesday, following a series of Hezbollah attacks on Israel.

Ismail Yusuf Baz, commander of Hezbollah’s coastal operations, was killed when Israeli aircraft struck a vehicle driving through the town of Ain Ebel near the Israeli-Lebanese frontier.

Shortly after the airstrike, a source in Hezbollah informed AFP that a regional commander had been killed.

“The field commander in charge of the Naqura region has been martyred in an Israeli strike,” the Hezbollah official said.

Hezbollah confirmed in a public statement that a “combatant” affiliated with the group was killed in the airstrike, but declined to identify him.

Baz had orchestrated rocket and anti-tank missile attacks on Israel from the western portion of Lebanon’s border with Israel, and Israeli army spokesperson said following the airstrike.

Later on Tuesday, a second Israeli airstrike was reported in southern Lebanon, this time targeting a vehicle driving through Chehabiyeh.

The Israeli airstrikes came after attack drones launched by Hezbollah penetrated Israeli airspace and hit Moshav Beit Hillel in northern Israel, leaving three people injured.

“Two explosive drones crossed from Lebanese territory towards Israeli territory and exploded in the area of ​​Beit Hillel. The incident is under investigation,” the Israel Defense Forces confirmed in an X post.

Hezbollah fired over 100 rockets towards northern Israel on Saturday, as Iran launched some 300 missiles and attack drones towards the Jewish state.

On Sunday night, four IDF soldiers were wounded, including one seriously, in an explosion during operational activity in the border area.

Hezbollah claimed responsibility, saying that it had placed several explosive devices along the border inside Lebanese territory near Kibbutz Adamit.

WIN also reported on Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke out for the first time on Iran’s massive missile and drone attack on Israel over the weekend, urging restraint from “all sides.”

In a statement issued by the Kremlin, Putin called on both sides to demonstrate “reasonable restraint,” warning of “catastrophic consequences” for the Middle East if tensions continue to escalate.

“Vladimir Putin expressed hope that all sides would show reasonable restraint and prevent a new round of confrontation fraught with catastrophic consequences for the entire region,” the Kremlin said.

Putin spoke by phone with his Iranian counterpart, Ebrahim Raisi, the statement said, citing the Iranian president’s claim that the unprecedented Iranian attacks on Israel Saturday were “retaliatory measures taken by Iran.”

“Ebrahim Raisi noted that Iran’s actions were forced and limited in nature.”

“At the same time, he stressed Tehran’s disinterest in further escalation of tensions.”

The Kremlin blamed the Israeli-Arab conflict, and in particular the ongoing war between Israel and the Hamas terror organization, for growing regional tensions.

“Both sides stated that the root cause of the current events in the Middle East is the unresolved Palestinian-Israeli conflict.”

“In this regard, the principled approaches of Russia and Iran in favour of an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, easing the difficult humanitarian situation, and creating conditions for a political and diplomatic settlement of the crisis were confirmed.”

Iranian forces launched some 300 ballistic missiles and war drones towards Israel Saturday, marking the first time the Islamic republic has directly attacked Israel from Iranian territory.

Israel, assisted by American, French, British, Jordanian, and Saudi forces, intercepted more than 99% of the incoming projectiles before they reached their targets.

According to IDF spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, one Israeli military facility was lightly damaged in the attack, and one civilian, a seven-year-old Arab-Israeli girl, was seriously injured in the attack.

                (WorldIsraelNews.com)

‘Any enemy that fights us will be hit, no matter where they are,’ says Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

By: World Israel News Staff & JNS

Iran’s massive missile and drone attack over the weekend will not “deter Israel,” Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant (Likud) told IDF troops Tuesday, lauding the highly successful efforts of the Israeli military and a coalition of Western powers and moderate Arab states in intercepting incoming projectiles.

Gallant visited Israel’s northern border Tuesday, where he held an operational situation assessment together with senior IDF officials and troops operating in the area of the Western Galilee.

During his visit, Gallant held a discussion with IDF commanders about efforts to drive Hezbollah forces away from the Israeli border, and commended soldiers for their performance.

The Defense Minister also discussed the Iranian attack on Israel over the weekend, emphasizing that Iran will fail to deter Israel and to prevent Israel from acting against Iranian attempts to strengthen its capabilities across the Middle East.

Gallant noted that less than 1% of the incoming missiles and drones managed to reach their targets inside Israel, despite a massive barrage of over 500 projectiles.

“The Iranians attacked us aggressively using over 500 weapons, [yet] not a single cruise missile or UAV reached Israel, and out of 100 ballistic missiles, four fell in Israel. This is the result of our preparations with our international partners, as well as the IDF’s capabilities,” Gallant told IDF soldiers.

“The Iranians will not be able to establish a new status of deterrence against the State of Israel. IAF aircraft operate everywhere – the skies of the Middle East are ‘open,’ and any enemy that fights us will be hit, no matter where they may be.”

“The tasks at hand are serious. I see what you [referring to the troops] are doing, and I am convinced that we will reach the stage when our citizens will be able to return to their homes safely – we will achieve this either via military action or via an agreement. It is always better to [reach] an agreement, but we are preparing for all possibilities.”

In other developments, JNS reported that attack drones launched by Hezbollah from Southern Lebanon lightly injured three people in the area of Moshav Beit Hillel in Israel’s Eastern Galilee on Tuesday afternoon, Army Radio reported.

“Two explosive drones crossed from Lebanese territory towards Israeli territory and exploded in the area of ​​Beit Hillel. The incident is under investigation,” the Israel Defense Forces confirmed in an X post.

In a statement, Hezbollah claimed it hit an Iron Dome missile defense battery near Beit Hillel and that soldiers were killed and wounded.

The Hezbollah-affiliated Al Akhbar newspaper claimed that an Israeli UAV struck a vehicle near Tyre in Southern Lebanon in response.

Tehran’s terror proxy in Lebanon has been engaged in near-daily attacks on Israel’s evacuated border region since joining the war in support of Hamas a day after the Oct. 7 invasion of the northwestern Negev.

In response, the Israeli Air Force has carried out a series of retaliatory strikes, including targeted killings of Hezbollah commanders.

Overnight Saturday, Hezbollah fired more than 100 rockets into the Upper Galilee as part of Iran’s unprecedented multi-pronged attack on the Jewish state. Air defenses intercepted most of the projectiles.

On Sunday night, four IDF soldiers were wounded, including one seriously, in an explosion during operational activity in the border area.

(WorldIsraelNews.com & JNS.org)

By: Batya Jerenberg – WorldIsraelNews.com

Ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) lawmakers have agreed in preliminary discussions with fellow lawmakers that a quarter of Ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students reaching draft age should be inducted into the army, Israel Hayom reported Tuesday.

Moreover, in coming years, that number could be increased to 50%, which would mean some 6,000 additional annual recruits to the IDF.

While the general outline for an agreement has been laid out, there are many details which would have to be settled for the plan to be adopted, the report noted.

Not least among them is whether the numbers could be anchored in a new draft law to replace the previous law, which was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2017.

Just as it has in the past, the courts could strike it down by saying that this threshold does not meet the requirements of a universal draft, meaning that the burden of army service is still shouldered unequally by the secular and national-religious populations.

If it is just passed in a government decision, however, it could be easily overturned when a new coalition takes power.

In addition, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has conditioned his approval of a new Draft Law on the agreement of War Cabinet Minister Benny Gantz.

However, Gantz, the report said, “does not intend to agree” to the idea.

Gantz had presented a proposal in February whereby most haredim would be either drafted or do national service in dozens of new alternate tracks in “recognized security, emergency and charity organizations.” An “elite” would continue studying Torah full-time, and “many” would be able to “serve at the same time as studying.”

The report emphasized that the fact that the haredi politicians admitted that it would be possible to draft thousands of yeshiva students was unprecedented.

It “puts on the table,” the report said, “what is known to everyone as well as to the ultra-Orthodox – there are masses … who do not really study around the clock.”

The Hebrew daily cited “data from ultra-Orthodox sources” that more than a thousand students who receive exemptions do not attend their institutions.

“Many more,” it added, go to “yeshivas for dropouts” but do not learn.

According to IDF figures, 540 males from the haredi sector voluntarily enlisted after October 7th, instead of continuing to use their annual deferments as full-time Torah students.

Dozens completed a shortened basic training course that included how to respond to Arab infiltrations and using weapons in a civilian setting. They were sent this month to guard ultra-Orthodox towns in Judea and Samaria.

In other developments, World Israel News also reported on Tuesday, that a senior Israeli official indicated that Hamas, after rejecting previous hostage release proposals, now says it will free only 20 hostages to Israel in exchange for hundreds of convicted Palestinian terrorists.

The offer comes after Hamas repeatedly rejected proposals for a phased ceasefire proposal beginning with a 6-week pause in fighting, the release of 40 women, children, and wounded hostages, and the release of hundreds of Palestinian terrorists from Israeli jails.

According to a source within Hamas, the reason for the revision of the number of released hostages downward is that there may not be more than 20 alive, and the terror group may not be aware of the location of others.

There is speculation that Hamas may be saying that no more than 20 hostages are alive to wage psychological warfare, force concessions, and extend the conflict with Israel.

                (worldIsraelnews.com)

“We are dealing with a terror organization that does not value life,” a spokeswoman for the Tzav 9 movement says.

By: Amelie Botbol

Demonstrators converged on the Israeli side of the Allenby Bridge near Jericho on Monday, the only official crossing between Jordan and Judea and Samaria, to prevent aid supplies destined for Gaza from entering.

The Tzav 9 (Order 9) grassroots movement organized the protest. Tzav 9 is a reference to the Tzav 8 emergency mobilization notices received by Israel Defense Forces reservists on Oct. 7.

“We are losing patience,” Rachel Touitou, a spokesperson for Tzav 9, told JNS on Tuesday. “We see the negotiations at a standstill. Our hostages haven’t returned home, we don’t even get the bodies of the deceased back.

“We are dealing with a terror organization that does not value life. Not only do they seize humanitarian aid to feed terrorists, but they also resell some of it,” she said.

While Israel has shown flexibility in the hopes of arriving at a hostage deal, Hamas has impeded an agreement, Matthew Miller, the U.S. State Department spokesman, said on Monday.

“Israel moved a significant way in submitting that proposal,” Miller said. “There was a deal on the table that would achieve much of what Hamas claims it wants to achieve, and they have not taken that deal.”

In response to Israel’s most generous offer yet, Hamas reportedly dropped the number of hostages it is willing to release from 40 to 20. The terrorist organization also demanded the release of more hardened terrorists and a ratio of more jailed Palestinian terrorists released per Israeli hostage freed. It also appeared to reject a phased deal, instead demanding an immediate withdrawal of all IDF units from the Gaza Strip along with international guarantees.

The Israeli protesters at Allenby Crossing on Monday included relatives of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.

“We heard that trucks were coming in from Jordan and decided to prevent it from passing. [The authorities] did it at night because they thought it would deter us,” Touitou said.

“It was a successful protest. Right afterward, they designated the area a [closed] military zone and they decided to send this same shipment through Kerem Shalom today. That’s why we came this morning,” she added.

On Tuesday, Tzav 9 converged on Kibbutz Gvulot, near the Kerem Shalom crossing. Touitou stressed that for as long as the hostages remain in Gaza, activists would continue protesting.

“The Gazans are being sent aid while 133 Israelis are held against their will. We don’t know what their medical condition is, we get no sign of life, they haven’t received any medication or a visit from humanitarian organizations,” Touitou said.

“We can’t let the [Hamas] terror organization, which uses international law and humanitarian aid to its own benefit, walk all over us,” she continued.

On Monday, the United States confirmed that the quantity of humanitarian aid entering the Gaza Strip had substantially increased over the past few days.

Israel recently ramped up efforts to facilitate deliveries, with the opening of a new land crossing to the Gaza Strip designed primarily to facilitate the entry of foreign aid.

The crossing, located between Kibbutz Zikim and the Gazan village of As-Siafa, will reduce travel time for trucks entering the Strip after picking up shipments at the Port of Ashdod some 25 miles away, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said last week. The goal, according to Gallant, is to have at least 500 trucks a day entering the Strip.

Near-daily protests took place following Israel’s Security Cabinet decision on Dec. 15 to approve the opening of the Kerem Shalom crossing for the transfer of aid into the southern Strip after intense U.S. and international pressure.

All the Israeli crossings to Gaza had been shuttered after Hamas’s Oct. 7 invasion, with only Egypt’s Rafah crossing from Sinai remaining open.

In late December and early January, protesters attempted to block trucks at Kerem Shalom, leading to clashes with security personnel. In early February, after two border crossings were declared closed military zones, activists moved their operations to Ashdod Port, where they blocked trucks destined for the Strip.

Last week, protesters from Tzav 9 succeeded in blocking aid at the Nitzana crossing between Israel and Egypt before security forces forcibly removed them a few hours later.

Touitou recounted that when Tzav 9 began its action months ago, Gazans started protesting against Hamas. Now that humanitarian aid goes in, she said Hamas isn’t encountering any resistance from the population.

“We are not only speaking about food, there is fuel as well. This is a problem for us and this is a problem for our soldiers,” said Touitou.

“Which country in the world would feed their enemy? Hamas gets whatever it needs and wants. It refuses to close a deal because there are no incentives to do so,” she added.

                 (JNS.org)

Edited by: Fern Sidman

In a dramatic display of defense prowess, Israel showcased its formidable air defense capabilities by intercepting a staggering 99% of the 300 deadly suicide drones and missiles launched by Iran towards the Jewish state on Saturday night, as was reported by The New York Post. Employing the advanced air defense system known as David’s Sling, along with a comprehensive array of anti-missile technologies, Israel successfully neutralized the overwhelming majority of the incoming threats.

David’s Sling, named metaphorically to evoke the Biblical story of David and Goliath, is primarily designed to counter medium- to long-range missiles and rockets, including drones, cruise missiles, and more advanced ballistic missiles. On the night of the attack, alongside other systems such as the renowned Iron Dome, David’s Sling was pivotal in thwarting the aerial onslaught. The system intercepted a diverse array of threats—120 ballistic missiles, approximately 30 cruise missiles, and around 170 explosive drones, as reported by Israeli military sources.

Amidst this onslaught, Israel received crucial assistance from allies such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and even an unexpected Arab partner. This collaborative effort called attention to the global recognition of the severity of the threat posed by Iran’s aggressive actions.

Remarkably, despite facing a direct attack from Iran for the first time in modern history, Israel emerged relatively unscathed. According to the information provided in the Post, minimal damage was sustained, with only one casualty confirmed thus far—a tragic incident involving a 7-year-old Bedouin girl. Indicated in the Post report was that Israeli military spokesperson Lt. Col. (R) Peter Lerner provided insight into the scale of the assault, citing approximately 120 ballistic missiles, 30 cruise missiles, and 170 explosive drones launched by Iran and its proxies.

Additionally, around 40 rockets were fired into Israel from Hezbollah based in Lebanon, further escalating tensions in the region. These attacks shine a spotlight on the proliferation of advanced munitions among terror organizations, posing a significant threat not only to Israel but also to regional stability.

While Israel’s renowned Iron Dome air defense system has historically been effective against rocket attacks from Hezbollah and Hamas terrorists, the magnitude of Iran’s assault necessitated the deployment of more sophisticated anti-missile systems, as per the information contained in the Post report. David’s Sling, alongside other advanced defense mechanisms, played a crucial role in intercepting the formidable barrage unleashed by Iran, thwarting what could have been a devastating strike on Israeli territory.

According to reports from the Jerusalem Post, the intercepted threats were neutralized through various means, including fighter aircraft equipped with air-to-air missiles, the David’s Sling air defense system, and the Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 missiles, designed specifically to counter ballistic missiles, as was noted in the Post report.

Footage shared by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) showcased the intensity of the attacks, with fiery missiles being intercepted mid-flight, highlighting the effectiveness of Israel’s defense mechanisms. As the Post report explained, the interception efforts commenced around midnight, as cruise missiles were launched from Iran toward Israeli territory. Simultaneously, the United States reportedly engaged in intercepting drones over Iraq and Syria, demonstrating a coordinated response to the multifaceted threat, the report added.

The IDF also released images capturing the deployment of an F-35I stealth fighter, which was scrambled to safeguard Israeli airspace. Detailed in the Post report was that the F-35I, a fifth-generation fighter jet designed in the United States, boasts advanced capabilities, including the ability to fire air-to-air missiles from a considerable distance, beyond the visual range of the pilot. This deployment illustrated Israel’s readiness to defend its airspace using cutting-edge technology and strategic maneuvers.

Furthermore, the collaborative efforts of the United States and other allies played a pivotal role in bolstering Israel’s defense against the onslaught of explosive drones and missiles. President Biden reaffirmed America’s unwavering commitment to Israel’s security, emphasizing the ironclad nature of the alliance between the two nations.

According to statements from National Security spokesman John Kirby to CNN, the United States intercepted “several dozen” missiles and drones launched by Iran, utilizing a range of defense systems and military capabilities. Notably, the report said that Patriot missile batteries deployed in northern Iraq and the USS Eisenhower aircraft carrier group stationed in the Red Sea played crucial roles in providing protection to American troops and intercepting hostile projectiles.

The deployment of two additional destroyers, specialized in intercepting incoming missiles and aircraft, further bolstered the defensive posture in the region, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. These naval assets, strategically positioned in key areas, contributed to the interception of Iranian ballistic missiles over Israel, demonstrating the efficacy of coordinated defense efforts.

Moreover, US warplanes were engaged in intercepting targets, underscoring the multifaceted approach adopted to neutralize potential threats. The report in the Post also mentioned that the involvement of allies such as the United Kingdom and France, who confirmed the utilization of their military assets to shoot down Iranian projectiles, calls attention to the collaborative nature of the response to Iran’s aggression.

In a remarkable display of cooperation, Jordan, a former adversary of Israel now aligned with the United States, also played a significant role in the interception efforts. The Post reported that the Royal Jordanian Air Force deployed US-made F-16 fighter jets to intercept incoming Iranian drones, showcasing the commitment of regional partners to confront common security challenges.

Jordan found itself drawn into the conflict when it was accused of assisting Israel in defending its airspace against threats posed by Iran. However, Jordan quickly denied these accusations, asserting that its actions were solely aimed at protecting its own citizens from potential harm.

President Biden engaged in discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the attack orchestrated by Iran. In a statement released after their conversation, Biden emphasized America’s steadfast support for Israel’s security. The report affirmed that he praised Israel’s ability to repel the attack, showing its remarkable defense capabilities that thwarted unprecedented assaults. Biden’s words aimed to send a clear message to Israel’s adversaries, asserting that attempts to undermine Israel’s security would not succeed.

Moreover, President Biden assured Netanyahu that the United States would not partake in any offensive operations against Iran. This stance speaks volumes about the Biden administration’s commitment to diplomacy and de-escalation in the region. Biden’s communication with Netanyahu sought to reinforce Israel’s position and provide assurance of continued support from the United States.

Despite diplomatic efforts, the situation remained volatile. Hezbollah launched a fresh barrage of rockets from Lebanon towards northern Israel, adding to the already tense atmosphere. The Post reported that this retaliatory attack was purportedly in response to Israeli strikes on southern Lebanese towns earlier that night. Although the rockets caused property damage in Katzrin, fortunately, there were no reported injuries.