Stories from Israel

Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev published a study in NewPytologist regarding plant nutrient absorption. The research indicates that plants can absorb essential minerals like iron and phosphorus directly from atmospheric dust through their leaves.

The Jerusalem municipality is requesting that Palestinians vacate certain areas to facilitate the construction of a biblical garden. The project is reportedly based on the premise that King David walked in the area 3,000 years ago.

Israel plans to invest $730 million into propaganda efforts amid ongoing conflict in Gaza and tensions with Iran. The move comes as the nation faces increasing international scrutiny. Israel is allocating approximately 350 billion shekels, equivalent to about $120 billion, from the national treasury for new weapons stockpiles. This follows a period where the average cost between Israel and Iran was reported above $100 billion. The funding comes during a second conflict between Israel and Iran, where armament costs alone reached 50 billion shekels, or roughly $16 billion. The source notes these figures in the context of ongoing military escalations.

Ukraine suspects the vessel Balkar Panorumitis, which arrived at the port of Haifa, is carrying wheat and barley illegally exported from occupied regions. Kyiv has submitted a package of documents to Israel requesting the seizure of the ship and its cargo.

Donald Trump stated that Benjamin Netanyahu should carry out precision operations in response to recent attacks. Trump requested that negotiations regarding Lebanon be limited to conclude by mid-May. Israel has continued strikes in southern Lebanon, citing Hezbollah's drone infrastructure as the justification. Approximately 1.2 million people in southern Lebanon have been forced to leave their homes due to the conflict. President Trump expressed optimism regarding a potential peace deal between Israel and Lebanon. However, reports indicate Hezbollah is not participating in the current discussions. Recent footage shows the demolition of entire villages in southern Lebanon during military operations.

Palestinian journalist Ali Al-Sammoudi was released by Israeli authorities on Thursday evening. He had been held in arbitrary detention for one year without formal charges or a trial.

Israeli internal opinions are divided regarding military constraints and the role of US influence. PredictIt markets indicate a 47% probability regarding the balance of power in the House and Senate following the 2026 election.

The Israeli Ministry of Defense confirmed that 6,500 tons of military equipment, including thousands of pieces of aviation ammunition, arrived at Haifa and Ashdod ports over the past day.

Israeli authorities are reportedly refusing to allow the Red Cross to communicate with prisoners in Israeli prisons, according to security sources. The report claims Israeli violations continue in the south despite a declared ceasefire.

President Erdoğan attended a May Day Labor and Solidarity Day event in Akko. During his speech, Erdoğan stated that they have worked to improve workers' rights.