Israel News and Updates

Hamas Spokesman Killed in Israeli Strike; Cease-fire Talks Collapse

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Key Takeaways

  • Hamas spokesman Abdul Latif al-Qanou was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza.
  • Israel-Hamas mediators have reached a dead end on a cease-fire deal, straining relations with Egypt.
  • Netanyahu threatens to seize more Gaza territory if hostages are not released.
  • Gazans protested against the war and Hamas rule, indicating a shift in attitude.
  • 59 hostages remain in Gaza, and 49 have been killed in captivity since October 7.

Defense Watch

Hamas spokesman killed in Israeli strike in Gaza

On March 26-27, 2025, a Hamas spokesman, Abdul Latif al-Qanou, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Jabalia, northern Gaza. The event was reported by both Hamas media and other news outlets.

IDF intercepts rockets fired from Gaza

On March 26, 2025, the IDF intercepted two rockets fired from the central Gaza Strip into Israeli territory. This highlights the ongoing security threats.

Israeli Air Force strikes targets in Syria and Lebanon

On March 26-27, 2025, the Israeli Air Force reportedly struck targets in Latakia, Syria, and Maaroub, Lebanon. The strikes in Latakia were reported by the Syrian National News Agency, but there was no immediate word on casualties. In Lebanon, an Israeli drone strike hit a car in Maaroub.

IDF orders broad Gaza evacuation after rocket fire

On March 26-27, 2025, the IDF ordered a broad evacuation of northern Gaza following rocket fire. The IDF warned residents of specific Gaza neighborhoods to evacuate south of Wadi Gaza before planned military operations.

38 killed in Gaza due to Israeli strikes

On March 26-27, 2025, medical sources reported that 38 people were killed in Gaza due to Israeli strikes. This highlights the ongoing conflict's impact on civilians.

Houthis claim attacks on Jaffa, US carrier; US denies

On March 26, 2025, the Houthis claimed to have launched attacks on Jaffa and a US air carrier. However, the US military denied any such clashes or attacks.

Katz warns Gazans: Remove Hamas or war continues

On March 26, 2025, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned Gazans that removing Hamas and releasing hostages were the only ways to end the war. He threatened further IDF operations if these conditions were not met.

Israeli drone strikes car in southern Lebanon

On March 27, 2025, an Israeli drone carried out an airstrike on a car in the southern Lebanese town of Maaroub, near Tyre. Images from the scene show the destroyed vehicle in flames.

Global Stage

Israel-Hamas mediators reach dead end on cease-fire deal

On March 27, 2025, reports indicated that mediators between Israel and Hamas have reached a dead end regarding a cease-fire deal. This development strains relations with Egypt, a key broker in these talks.

Israel straining relations with Egypt over cease-fire talks

On March 27, 2025, reports indicate that Israel is straining relations with Egypt, a key broker in cease-fire talks. This is hindering efforts to end the conflict.

UAE, US discuss Gaza ceasefire efforts

On March 26, 2025, it was reported that UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and US President Donald Trump discussed efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza. This highlights international efforts to resolve the conflict.

Political Pulse

Netanyahu threatens to seize more Gaza territory

On March 26, 2025, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the IDF would intensify pressure on Hamas and potentially seize territory in Gaza if hostages were not released. Defense Minister Israel Katz echoed these sentiments, warning Gazans of further territorial losses if Hamas did not release the hostages.

Knesset opposition to combat judicial overhaul agenda

On March 27, 2025, Knesset opposition factions stated they would work together to combat the judicial overhaul agenda. This signals a united front against the government's proposed changes.

Netanyahu seeks new Shin Bet chief after court ruling

On March 26-27, 2025, Benjamin Netanyahu is seeking a new Shin Bet chief after a court blocked the dismissal of the current one, Ronen Bar. The government reportedly fired Ronen Bar last week due to Netanyahu's lack of trust in him.

Israel's antisemitism conference described as a fiasco

On March 27, 2025, Israel's antisemitism conference was described as a fiasco and embarrassment. Details surrounding the conference were not provided.

Thousands protest Knesset debates on judicial bill

On March 26-27, 2025, thousands protested outside the Knesset against debates on a coalition bill for political takeover of judicial picks. Protesters accuse the government of declaring war on the Israeli people, demanding the return of hostages, a state commission of inquiry, and elections.

Opposition criticizes Netanyahu on Arab sector crime

On March 26, 2025, opposition MKs criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding high crime levels in the Arab sector. MK Ayman Odeh presented statistics indicating a significant increase in homicides in the Arab sector since Netanyahu took office, with a low percentage of cases solved.

Minister Amsalem advocates for civil war to defeat Left

On March 26-27, 2025, Minister Dudi Amsalem advocated for civil war to defeat the Left in an interview with Kan News. He stated that the Left does not accept the legitimacy of the Likud government, sparking controversy.

Knesset advances controversial judicial appointments bill

On March 26-27, 2025, Israel's Knesset was set to approve changes to the judicial selection process, a key part of Netanyahu's judicial overhaul. Knesset members continued to deliberate the coalition’s contentious bill to increase political control over judicial appointments in Israel, with opposition lawmakers voicing objections.

Israeli Minister under investigation for breaking into base

On March 27, 2025, it was reported that an Israeli Minister and MKs are under investigation for breaking into the Sde Teiman military base on March 26, 2025. The Attorney General has approved the investigation.

Minister blocks Israel Prize for war crimes probe advocate

On March 27, 2025, the Education Minister blocked the Israel Prize for a scholar who urged a war crimes probe. This decision has sparked controversy.

Netanyahu repeats 'deep state' conspiracy theories

On March 26, 2025, during the "40 Signatures Debate," Prime Minister Netanyahu repeated conspiracy theories about a “deep state”. He also faced criticism from opposition leader MK Yair Lapid, who attacked the 2025 national budget.

Police use water cannon on Jerusalem protesters

On March 26, 2025, police used water cannon directly at anti-government protesters in Jerusalem. This occurred amidst ongoing demonstrations against government policies.

Netanyahu sues activist over 'Qatargate' statements

On March 26, 2025, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu filed a defamation lawsuit against Itay Lashem, a left-wing activist, over statements made regarding the 'Qatargate' case. The lawsuit alleges that Lashem spread "blatant lies" about Netanyahu's ties to Qatar.

Society Matters

Gazans protest against war and Hamas rule

On March 26-27, 2025, Gazans protested against the ongoing war and Hamas rule, expressing frustration with the destruction and the conflict. These anti-Hamas protests indicate a shift in attitude, with thousands participating.

Stef Wertheimer, titan of Israeli industry, dies at 98

On March 27, 2025, Stef Wertheimer, a prominent figure in Israeli industry, passed away at the age of 98. His contributions to the Israeli economy were significant.

Palestinian Oscar winner attacked by Israeli settlers

On March 27, 2025, a Palestinian Oscar winner was attacked by Israeli settlers. Further details about the attack were not provided.

Freed hostage offers hope at Tel Aviv dessert festival

On March 27, 2025, a freed hostage offered Israelis hope by serving pancakes at a Tel Aviv dessert festival. This event provided a moment of respite amid ongoing tensions.

Masa's Diaspora Week features volunteering, dialogue

On March 26, 2025, Masa's Diaspora Week featured a week of volunteering and dialogue between Israeli and diaspora teens. This initiative aims to strengthen ties between Israel and the diaspora.

Concerns raised over abortion discouragement in Down syndrome cases

On March 27, 2025, concerns were raised about whether Israel's Health Ministry is discouraging abortions in high-risk Down syndrome cases. This issue raises ethical and moral questions.

100 Gazans set to move to Indonesia work program

On March 27, 2025, reports indicated that 100 Gazans are set to move to Indonesia as part of a pilot work program. This initiative aims to provide opportunities for Gazans abroad.

Hostage Crisis

59 hostages remain in Gaza, 49 killed

On March 27, 2025, reports indicated that 59 hostages remain in Gaza, and 49 have been killed in captivity since October 7, 2025. This underscores the dire situation of the hostages.

Egypt proposes hostage release; Israel threatens action

On March 26, 2025, an Egyptian proposal suggested releasing 5 living hostages daily, starting with 5 on day one, then releasing another 5 every 7-10 days. The IDF would withdraw to its pre-ceasefire positions, with negotiations on further withdrawal from the Philadelphi Corridor, and Israel would release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. The Prime Minister's Office denies receiving this proposal, and Israel threatens further action if Hamas doesn't agree to their terms.

Hamas threatens hostages will return ‘in coffins’

On March 27, 2025, Hamas threatened that hostages would return ‘in coffins,’ and Islamic Jihad fired rockets at Israel. This escalates tensions in the region.

Hostage families demand return of their children

On March 26, 2025, families of hostages and victims of the October 7 attacks held up signs during a debate, demanding the return of their children. This highlighted the ongoing hostage situation.

Security Briefing

IDF eliminates terrorist in West Bank

On March 27, 2025, IDF forces eliminated a masked terrorist carrying stones near the 'Heart of Samaria' highway in the West Bank. This occurred amidst heightened tensions in the region.

Col. Haim Cohen resigns, citing Gaza border failure

On March 26, 2025, Col. Haim Cohen resigned, citing the failure to protect Gaza border communities. This resignation highlights the security challenges in the region.

Police prioritize Palestinian permit detentions over serious crimes

On March 26-27, 2025, reports indicate that Israeli police are prioritizing the detention of Palestinians lacking permits over addressing serious crimes. This has raised concerns about law enforcement priorities.

IDF Chief visits Haifa Naval Base, emphasizes maritime security

On March 26, 2025, IDF Chief Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir visited the Haifa Naval Base. He emphasized the need to thwart maritime threats and leverage the sea for security.

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