Stories from Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu communicated with US President Donald Trump regarding recent strikes. The source noted that the ceasefire has not stopped the ongoing raids. Israeli raids have continued since a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon was established on April 16. The ongoing activity follows an attempt to prepare the environment for permanent ceasefire negotiations. Hezbollah operations have targeted areas including Janouia. Reports indicate Israel has requested that Washington limit its negotiations with the Lebanese government until mid-May. This request was reportedly made to the Trump administration, according to Channel 12. The source noted that Trump's leadership in the region is viewed as a factor in potential outcomes involving Iran and Hezbollah.

A grain-laden vessel has triggered a diplomatic dispute between Ukraine and Israel. Ukraine claims the ship is carrying stolen wheat and has requested that Israel turn the vessel away.

Tamir Pardo compared events occurring in the West Bank to the Holocaust. Pardo stated that he feels shame for being Jewish in relation to the situation. The source noted that the oppression in the West Bank is drawing reactions both internationally and within Israel.

An Israeli non-governmental human rights organization stated that a doctor, Hussam Abu Safiya, is being held in harsh conditions. The organization noted that his detention was extended under the unlawful combatants law.

Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid have established the BeYachad alliance to oppose Prime Minister Netanyahu. The move is expected to impact prospects for an Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire.

Israeli military aggression has destroyed three centers providing services for individuals with autism and Down syndrome. Since March 2, total casualties from Israeli attacks in Lebanon have reached 2,534 dead and 7,863 injured. The casualties include 26 teachers, 7 data workers, one school bus driver, and one pharmacist from a nearby clinic. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described the attack as cowardly. The death toll was revised down from an initial report of 175 to 155. The Lebanese Ministry of Public Health reported at least five people died in the attack, including a local auto mechanic who supports nine children. One survivor reported living in a tent in Beirut after fleeing the initial outbreak of violence in early March. Sky News Arabia Radio reported that Lebanon is on the brink of a civil war.

Israeli sirens were reported in Western Galilee following the interception of a suspicious target before it could cross into Israeli territory.

Mossad Director David Barnea stated at an event in Tel Aviv on April 28 that the agency has penetrated core secret networks in Iran and Lebanon. The source did not specify the exact nature or timing of the operations mentioned. The Mossad chief praised agents who played roles in advancing Israeli operations in Iran and Lebanon during 2025. The remarks were made during a ceremony honoring selected Mossad operatives. The source noted that these operations were central to Israel's strategic advancements in those regions. The report also highlighted ongoing disagreements regarding assessments of the Iranian political regime. The Mossad chief stated that the organization is continuing its full range of operations and is prepared to face ongoing threats. According to the report, the chief defended his assessments against claims that they were incorrect.

A former director of Mossad described recent Israeli policies and actions in the Pardo region as being similar to the Holocaust. Pardo stated that the director witnessed physical and sexual violence in Palestine during field investigations.

Four explosions were reported in the Israeli-occupied town of Al Qantara within the last 30 minutes. An additional explosion occurred in the town of Al Tayba. The reports also noted the targeting of a bulldozer in Al Qantara.