Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-04-28 at 00:02

HEADLINES
Iranian cyber campaign targets Israelis morale
Iran seeks UN NPT vice-presidency faces objections
Reservist covenant reshapes Knesset employers compensated

The time is now 12:01 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, Israelis across the country received threatening WhatsApp messages in what authorities describe as an Iranian-linked cyber campaign intended to sow fear and psychological pressure. The messages were sent from hacked or fake business accounts, and investigators say the activity matches the pattern of a group known as Handala, believed to operate with Iranian backing. The National Cyber Directorate is reviewing the case and has urged the public to block and report the messages, warning they are part of a broader effort to sap civilian morale during wartime.

In Regional Impacts, Iran's bid for a vice-presidential role at the United Nations conference to review the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty drew sharp international criticism. The United States representative to the United Nations objected, calling it an affront to the treaty; other nations questioned Iran's suitability, while Iran asserted adherence to the treaty. Separately, oil markets moved as President Donald Trump weighed an Iranian proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the eight-week war, with Tehran reportedly sending written messages to Washington outlining red lines on its nuclear program and the waterway; the White House said the president discussed the offer but did not confirm acceptance. The plan would reopen the Hormuz Strait in exchange for ending the blockade of Iranian ports and would postpone more complex negotiations over its nuclear program. Separately, a Treasury Department official described a difficult environment for Iran, noting that surviving leaders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps are beleaguered while Iran's oil industry begins to shut in production due to the United States blockade.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, The next Knesset should belong to those who choose to serve is presented as a Zionist covenant rather than a left or right issue, arguing that those who govern Israel must come from communities that defend the country, a principle reinforced after years of war and heavy reservist service. The covenant of those who serve has become a rallying idea in Israeli politics, echoing calls from leaders who note that many serve and others do not, and argue governance should reflect that burden. In another development, the Knesset approved a permanent provision to compensate employers of reserve soldiers by amending the National Insurance Law to ensure long-term support for businesses bearing the burden of reservists and to strengthen economic resilience. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called the measure a milestone in strengthening the state's economic rear and the ability to sustain mobilization. Finally, the President of the State of Israel arrived for a state visit in Kazakhstan, a nation known for its oil and gas deposits.

Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.
I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.
Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.

SOURCES
https://worldisraelnews.com/cyber-threat-iranians-target-israelis-via-whatsapp/
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-894377
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/04/crude-extends-gains-trump-considers-latest-iran-proposal
https://t.me/JewishNews24/53487
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-894358
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-894371
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/75650