Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-06-24 at 18:01

HEADLINES
Netanyahu vows drone fix to curb Iran
IDF controls 70% Gaza, contractor killed
Israel Lebanon talks stall in Washington

The time is now 6:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will be the first country in the world to solve the global problem of explosive drones, speaking at the Federation of Local Authorities in Israel Conference on Wednesday. He pledged that as long as he is prime minister, he will not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons and will maintain the security of northern Israel. He praised Israel’s military successes against Hezbollah, which often launches explosive drones toward Israeli territory and IDF troops in southern Lebanon, describing a security zone that prevents Hezbollah and its remnants from invading the Galilee and saying underground infrastructure is being destroyed. Netanyahu argued that much of Israel’s progress against hostile actors has come despite global pressure to halt operations, saying that if Israel had followed calls to stop at Rafah, there would have been “nada, zero, nothing,” and that this is not who Israel is. He described Israel’s achievements as “what no one believed we would do,” particularly regarding operations against Iran, adding that he has dedicated most of his adult life to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

In Regional Impacts, a civilian contractor with the IDF from Hura, Raed Abu Al-Qian, was killed by a building collapse in the Gaza Strip while working on engineering projects on behalf of the Defense Ministry; his family has been notified. Defense officials also noted that the IDF has achieved operational control over roughly 70 percent of Gaza, with the potential for expansion in coming months as Hamas is said to be dragging its feet, entrenching itself, recruiting operatives, and preparing for war. The Southern Command conducts daily assessments across Gaza, coordinating IDF and Shin Bet intelligence to respond to threats. Earlier reports indicated Israeli companies are negotiating for large-scale demolition of Gaza’s structures, described as unprecedented in scope, with the government signaling a desire to advance reconstruction while security considerations continue.

Also in this topic, the first day of Israel-Lebanon talks in Washington ended without progress, with major disagreements over the scope and timing of an Israeli withdrawal. The discussions grew tense, and gaps between the sides remained wide. US mediators are effectively restarting the talks to soften positions and get negotiations back on track.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, a feature titled Who Is Lying? America, Iran, and the Truth Behind the Deal is highlighted for viewers seeking context on the deal. In New York, the primaries signaled shifts in the Jewish political landscape, with some pro-Israel incumbents losing to challengers backed by progressive groups, while other pro-Israel victors may carry the mantle for the liberal Jewish vote as the party recalibrates its stance toward Israel. Observers note the evolving dynamic as parties balance support for Israel with broader domestic priorities. Former President Trump contends that Erdogan restrained Turkey from joining Iran in war, praising diplomacy and stressing his own role in de-escalation efforts as part of a broader narrative on preventing regional escalation.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, an opinion piece argues that the current haredi leadership’s approach to draft exemptions threatens social cohesion. The author warns that division is the greatest weapon of Israel’s enemies and stresses the importance of unity in wartime. The piece urges elected leaders to curb partisan rancor, engage respectfully, and find common ground on religious and civic matters, noting potential avenues for compromise among figures such as MK Yisrael Eichler, MK Gilad Kariv, MK Yitzhak Pindrus, Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, and Minister Yitzhak Goldknopf.

In Uplifting News, a FIFA-LEGO collaboration will bring a World Cup-themed interactive experience to Sha’ar HaTzafon Mall in Kiryat Ata for three days this summer, offering free admission to children and families. Upon entry, participants receive a Player Card and complete a series of stations that simulate elements of a World Cup-style tournament. The first station challenges kids to build a miniature World Cup trophy with LEGO bricks, a model they can keep, and they receive a stamp on their player card. A second station features reaction-time and agility challenges using the Blazepod system, with children six and older competing for fast times and high scores. Daily winners will receive prizes.

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://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-900433
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-900432
https://t.me/selena_updates/66180
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/78024
https://www.jpost.com/american-politics/article-900430
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/b1gpstkfgg
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-900426
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/sports/article-900429