Israel News and Updates

Netanyahu Faces Qatargate Probe Amidst Gaza Hostage Crisis; Israel Demands Hostage Release for Ceasefire

1064 words · 5 mins read

Key Takeaways

  • Netanyahu faces scrutiny over Qatargate, Shin Bet, and hostage negotiations.
  • Israel demands hostage release, including Edan Alexander, for Gaza ceasefire.
  • Eli Sharvit appointed new Shin Bet head, replacing Ronen Bar.
  • IDF killed 50 Hamas fighters in Gaza, uncovered tunnel network.
  • Knesset passes law for Southern Israel rehabilitation, allocating NIS 5B.

Political Pulse

Netanyahu faces scrutiny: Qatargate, Shin Bet, Hostage Negotiations

On March 31, 2025, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced increased scrutiny regarding the Qatargate scandal, potential replacement of Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, and hostage negotiations. He was questioned by police, with Benny Gantz commenting on Netanyahu's efforts against the investigation, and Yair Golan suggesting a probe into possible links between funds supporting Hamas and Netanyahu's office. Protesters also decried Netanyahu's policies, referencing the October 7 massacre.

Eli Sharvit appointed new Shin Bet head; faces challenges

On March 31, 2025, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Eli Sharvit as the new head of the Shin Bet, replacing Ronen Bar. This decision faced challenges including a High Court injunction and objections due to Sharvit's past political activities and concerns from the US, sparking mixed reactions from politicians and Shin Bet sources.

Hostage's mother pleads with Netanyahu for release

On March 31, 2025, Einav Zangauker, mother of hostage Matan Zangauker, presented a letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, detailing the harsh conditions of Matan's captivity in Gaza and urging him to secure the release of all hostages. She gave Netanyahu a letter urging him to take immediate action to return the captives from Gaza.

Eylon Levy dismissed as government spokesperson in May 2024

On March 31, 2025, it was reported that Eylon Levy, a government spokesperson, was dismissed in May 2024 due to his participation in anti-reform protests and a critical social media post.

Netanyahu's trial continues; testimony pushed to Wednesday

On March 31, 2025, the 20th session of Benjamin Netanyahu's criminal corruption trial ended early, and his testimony was pushed to Wednesday. Netanyahu reviewed indictment items about a supposed media bribery scheme between him and then-Walla owner Shaul Elovitch, disputing claims of an unusual relationship.

Protests in Jerusalem over government, hostages; detentions

On March 31, 2025, protesters blocked Begin Road in Jerusalem and demonstrated on Aza Street near Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence, protesting against the government and for the return of the hostages. Seven people were detained.

Smotrich resigns from government for Knesset Member

Defense Watch

Israel demands hostage release for Gaza ceasefire, security zone

On March 31, 2025, Israel demanded the release of 10 living hostages plus American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander for a 40-day ceasefire in Gaza. Israel's demands also include a security zone within Gaza, demilitarization, and expulsion of Hamas members.

IDF kills 50 Hamas fighters in Gaza

On March 31, 2025, the IDF announced it had killed 50 Hamas fighters in northern and central Gaza, focusing on the Netzarim Corridor and areas north of it. The IDF also uncovered a hidden tunnel network stretching a kilometer and destroyed a rocket-making facility amidst ongoing military operations.

IDF, Shin Bet target Hezbollah terrorist in Beirut

On April 1, 2025, the IDF and Shin Bet conducted strikes in the Dahiyeh area of Beirut, targeting a Hezbollah terrorist who has been assisting Hamas. The report was published on the same day.

IDF punishes soldiers for Hebron ransacking

On March 31, 2025, the IDF announced the punishment of two soldiers and two lower-level commanders for ransacking sites in Hebron during an unauthorized search for illegal weapons. The soldiers received military detention, and commanders received warnings.

IDF military exercise in Kiryat Shmona area

On April 1, 2025, it was reported that the IDF will conduct a military exercise in the Kiryat Shmona area of northern Israel, starting early morning and lasting until afternoon.

IDF drone crashes in Kibbutz Nirim due to failure

Economic Front

Knesset passes law for Southern Israel rehabilitation: NIS 5B

On March 31, 2025, Israel's Knesset passed a law defining rehabilitation responsibilities in the south of the country following the October 7 Hamas attack. The Tkuma directorate will be responsible for development and rehabilitation in the South, with NIS 5 billion allocated for economic, social, and infrastructure development.

Israeli banks to offer NIS 3B in customer benefits

On March 31, 2025, it was announced that Israel's commercial banks will offer benefits and lowered prices to customers totaling NIS three billion over three years. This is a result of a plan by the Bank of Israel (BOI).

Global Stage

Erdogan calls for God to destroy 'Zionist Israel'

On March 31, 2025, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called for God to destroy "Zionist Israel" at the end of Ramadan. This comment followed harsh statements from both Israeli and Turkish foreign ministries.

US continues strikes against Houthis in Yemen

On April 1, 2025, CENTCOM confirmed that the United States is continuing strikes against the Houthis in northern Yemen. Houthi media reported fifteen strikes conducted over the past day.

Houthis claim downing US MQ-9 drone in Marib

On April 1, 2025, a Houthi spokesman announced that their air defenses shot down an American MQ-9 drone in the airspace of Marib province using a locally manufactured missile.

Yesha Council delegation visits UAE for cooperation talks

On March 31, 2025, a delegation from Israel's Yesha Council visited the UAE for discussions on economic and political cooperation. The visit included meetings with Emirati officials and influencers, and an Iftar dinner.

Security Briefing

Egypt's Sinai buildup raises Israel's peace agreement concerns

On March 31, 2025, an Israeli security source reported Egypt's military buildup in the Sinai Peninsula may violate the peace agreement with Israel. Israel is discussing the matter with Egypt and the United States.

Society Matters

Man arrested for anti-Zionist protest in Bnei Brak

On March 31, 2025, Israel Police arrested a resident of Bnei Brak, in his 20s, for offenses including violation of public peace, intentional damage to property, offenses motivated by racism or hostility toward the public, and obstructing a police officer. The suspect was arrested while participating in a parade and carrying a sign that said, "We have no part or inheritance in the Zionist state."

Nearly 3,000 Yazidis still missing; woman found in Gaza

As of April 1, 2025, nearly 3,000 Yazidis are still unaccounted for, with many believed to be held captive or trafficked across the Middle East. One Yazidi woman kidnapped at age 11 was found in Gaza, reportedly sold and forced to marry a Hamas fighter.

Hebrew University of Jerusalem celebrates centennial

On April 1, 2025, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem celebrated its centennial, marking 100 years of academic and intellectual contributions. Yissum, the university’s technology transfer company, has registered over 260 startup companies, with 18 having gone public, including Mobileye.

Follow What Matters to You