Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-06-12 at 20:01

HEADLINES
- Trump halts Iran uranium raid plan
- Iran MOU extends ceasefire tests Israel
- Two Israelis arrested for Thai real estate

The time is now 8:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In US ground mission to capture Iran's uranium paused by Trump - report, US officials describe the plan to launch a ground operation to recover Iran's enriched uranium as being in an advanced stage before President Trump paused it after warnings of high risk and possible retaliation from the Islamic Republic. General Dan Caine briefed the president after rushing from a NATO meeting in Brussels to Tampa, Florida, on May 19, and Trump then halted further steps. The decision was influenced by concerns about a likely escalation with Iran and potential damage to the global economy, according to people familiar with the matter. One source described the mission as involving lots of risk, including the possibility of severe retaliation. A Joint Staff spokesman declined to comment.

In US policy concerning Israel, Iran MOU would cap self-defeating ceasefire for Trump, marks huge problem for Israel, the article notes that during a 65-day ceasefire with Iran that began on April 8, the US president issued threats against the Islamic Republic, only to call off an ostensible attack as talks progressed. The memorandum of understanding reportedly would extend the ceasefire for about two months, during which the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened and the US blockade gradually lifted, with discussions on Iran’s nuclear program but no action taken until a second deal is reached. The arrangement would also involve Lebanon, potentially tying the Israeli Defense Forces’ hands in fighting Hezbollah. Prime Minister Netanyahu, after discussions with Trump, appeared cautiously optimistic about the direction, though the political dynamics around an election season complicate the response.

In Thai police arrest two Israeli citizens on suspicion of business and real estate crimes, Thai authorities say two Israeli nationals were arrested as part of a broader crackdown on foreigners suspected of skirting Thai law on land and business ownership. One arrest occurred at Koh Samui airport after officials say an Israeli citizen was involved in acquiring land through Thai frontmen to circumvent foreign ownership restrictions. The individual identified as Eden Elisa, 30, owner of Elisa Paradise in Thailand, is accused of providing false information to the land registry to gain control of property via a company allegedly established by Thai citizens. Elisa reportedly left the country before authorities executed a search warrant and was arrested upon re-entry. Authorities say another Israeli citizen was arrested last week as part of the ongoing enforcement drive aimed at preventing foreigners from undermining local livelihoods in tourist areas.

In Taiwan Film Week brings the island’s stories, culture to Jerusalem, the inaugural Taiwan Film Week will bring a sample of Taiwanese cinema to audiences in Jerusalem, with screenings across the city as well as Tel Aviv and Herzliya. The Jerusalem Cinematheque program runs June 18-24 and features about six films spanning a range of genres and subjects. Ya-Ping Lee, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office representative in Tel Aviv, describes the festival as a celebration of storytelling and friendship and hopes Israeli audiences gain new perspectives on Taiwan and its long tradition of culture and history.

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/middle-east/iran-news/article-899231
https://www.timesofisrael.com/iran-mou-would-cap-self-defeating-ceasefire-for-trump-marks-huge-problem-for-israel/
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-899221
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-899067