Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-07-18 at 06:01

HEADLINES
US strikes Bandar Abbas to disrupt logistics
Abbas announces Nov 28 Palestinian elections
Critics say Abbas aims to secure rule

The time is now 6:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In US Military Role, Washington has attacked bridges, railways, roads and communications around Bandar Abbas to restrict Iran’s military logistics near the Strait of Hormuz, raising questions over whether the campaign could prepare the ground for a limited operation.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas’s announcement about holding legislative elections on November 28 has set the Palestinian political scene in motion, prompting politicians, activists, and potential candidates to quietly begin preparations and explore possible alliances. Behind the scenes, discussions are under way about how lists might be formed, who could run, and what the next parliament might look like. Critics argue that his decision to schedule elections for the Palestinian Legislative Council before the presidential election is a calculated move to secure his rule and test the political climate before risking a presidential race, with critics saying Abbas prefers this order because he fears losing the presidency to rivals, whether from Fatah or Hamas.

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.ynetnews.com/article/ry06s600vml
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-902794