Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-05-04 at 00:01

HEADLINES
Missile ships, 100+ aircraft, 15,000 troops Hormuz
Lag Baomer canceled at Mount Meron
Bondi Beach attack spurs antisemitism hearings

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 US Military Role, The US military announced that the operation to restore traffic in the Strait of Hormuz will include missile ships, more than 100 aircraft taking off from both sea and land, multi-domain unmanned systems, and approximately 15,000 troops.

In Israeli Domestic Politics, A responsible choice: Why canceling Lag Ba’omer at Mount Meron was the right call - editorial, the decision was taken on the recommendation of the IDF Home Front Command to limit Lag Ba’omer to symbolic participation with no more than 1,500 people in the surrounding communities. Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs outlined the reasoning: a real risk of mass casualties, a fragile ceasefire on the Lebanon front, the site’s exposed location near the border, continued rocket fire, and the impossibility of evacuating tens of thousands quickly under attack. The editors emphasize that this move is not a rejection of tradition but an acknowledgment of danger.

In Antisemitism and Anti-Jewish Hate, Australia begins hearings into Bondi Beach attack and rising antisemitism, Australia began public hearings on Monday into the Bondi Beach mass shooting in December as part of a national inquiry, with witnesses expected to describe experiences of escalating antisemitism in the country. The attack left 15 dead at a Jewish Hanukkah celebration and prompted calls for tougher gun controls and broader action to counter hatred toward Jews. Royal Commission lead Virginia Bell said the sharp spike in antisemitism seen in Australia mirrors trends in other Western countries and appears linked to Middle East events. The inquiry has received more than 5,700 submissions, and witnesses will include relatives of victims and others.

In Uplifting News, US Ambassador to Belgium Bill White: Deeply moved to be invited to the reopening of the Liège synagogue. Honored to stand with the Jewish community of Liège as they reclaim this sacred place that has served the community since 1899. As he told the congregation during his remarks, the United States stands with you. Also in uplifting news, SEE IT !! Red Bull skydiver soared over the Kentucky Derby racetrack, delivering an incredible point-of-view while displaying the 152nd Kentucky Derby flag.

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://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/75843
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-894993
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1317061
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/05/australia-begins-hearings-bondi-beach-attack-and-rising-antisemitism
https://t.me/JewishNews24/53835
https://t.me/JewishNews24/53825