Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-06-19 at 01:03

HEADLINES
Pentagon seeks $80B for Iran war costs
Hamas files reveal planned deception against Israel
Moscow oil refinery strikes spark citywide smoke

The time is now 1:02 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In US Military Role, the Pentagon says it needs about $80 billion to cover costs from the Iran war as well as other non-war-related bills. Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg told lawmakers of the cost in phone calls earlier this week, according to the Wall Street Journal's report. A full US supplemental request, which would include money for the Pentagon as well as non-defense priorities such as farm and disaster relief, could be sent to lawmakers in the coming days. Lawmakers have pressed for a comprehensive figure for the four-month-old war, with concern over the resources and personnel deployed in the region that might be needed elsewhere. The war has cost around $25 billion so far, per a Pentagon official in April, though the full cost remains an open question.

In Regional Impacts, smoke filled the sky over the Russian capital of Moscow early Thursday, rising from across the extent of the Moscow Oil Refinery after several dozen drone and missile strikes as part of a large-scale attack launched by the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Hamas weaponized our desire for quiet; now Israel must learn it can't afford innocence. The newly exposed Hamas files show an enemy that was patient, strategic, and intent on deception, studying Israel and turning quiet into part of the battlefield. Documents detail a September 2022 plan for strategic deception ahead of a surprise attack and a September 2023 note describing calibrated border pressure and the use of festivals as opportunities, underscoring planning and restraint as a tactic. The piece argues Israel must respond with morality, discipline, and clear strategy.

In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, “I have a mission”: Guy Gilboa-Dalal recounts sexual violence he experienced in Hamas captivity. In an interview with First Lady Michal Herzog, Gilboa-Dalal describes the abuse he endured, including a moment when a captor forced him to undress, touched his body, and held a knife to his throat, telling him not to speak. The interview was held ahead of the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, and Herzog spoke of outrage over how such allegations are treated in international scrutiny, emphasizing the need for voices to empower survivors.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, Editor's Notes: Israel just met the America that comes after Trump. The column argues the deal-making and shifting US posture may test the long-standing dynamic with Israel, noting discontent and skepticism among Israeli leaders about recent moves and the broader security landscape, with voices across the political spectrum weighing in on how the relationship might be recalibrated.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, Friday talks between US, Iran will not take place, Swiss Foreign Ministry confirms. The planned talks at the Burgenstock resort were not held as scheduled after White House officials said Vice President JD Vance would not travel, citing logistical issues. The US delegation was prepared to depart at the first opportunity, but the schedule was interrupted. Iran had also reported delays in its own delegation’s travel amid broader regional tensions.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, Switzerland says US-Iran talks planned for Friday are off. The Swiss foreign ministry confirmed the cancellation of talks that had been planned for Friday, following the White House statement that VP Vance would not travel to Switzerland to meet Iranian negotiators amid ongoing regional tensions and security concerns.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, the Associated Press report: White House Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff told congressional leaders Iran is set to host the UN’s IAEA in country to inspect its nuclear facilities, with Iranian decision-makers also planning to meet IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi in Geneva. The invitation would allow US nuclear inspectors to join the IAEA team in Iran as part of the inspection effort.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has postponed a visit to Switzerland for a US-Iran ceremony because their agreement on ending the Middle East war had been signed remotely, his spokesman told AFP.

In Uplifting News, Canada makes history, routs Qatar for first World Cup victory. Jonathan David scored a hat trick as Canada overwhelmed nine-man Qatar 6-0 in Vancouver, marking Canada's first-ever World Cup win. Canada’s record improved to 1-1-0 with four points in Group B, and David’s goals came in the 29th minute, late in the first half, and again at the end of the match, cementing a historic performance for the host nation.

In Uplifting News, מעלת ברכות השחר: a Hebrew-language post promoting morning blessings and recitation of the Torah and Shema, urging readers to dedicate five minutes to begin the day with prayer and protection and promising success in all endeavors.

In Uplifting News, MASSIVE TURNOUT: The NYPD estimates about 2 million people packed Lower Manhattan for the Knicks' Parade of Champions, filling the Canyon of Heroes and surrounding areas and marking one of the largest celebrations in New York City history as fans celebrated the team’s championship season.

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
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