🎗️Lonny's War Update- October 539, 2023

🎗️Day 539 that 59 of our hostages in Hamas captivity
There is nothing more important than getting them home! NOTHING!

“I’ve never met them,
But I miss them.
I’ve never met them,
but I think of them every second.
I’ve never met them,
but they are my family.
BRING THEM HOME NOW!!!”
We’re waiting for you, all of you.
A deal is the only way to bring
all the hostages home- the murdered for burial and the living for rehabilitation.

#BringThemHomeNow #TurnTheHorrorIntoHope

There is no victory until all of the hostages are home!
‎אין נצחון עד שכל החטופים בבית

Red Alerts - Missile, Rocket, Drone (UAV - unmanned aerial vehicles), and Terror Attacks and Death Announcements

*7:50am- north- rockets from Lebanon- tel Hai, Kiryat Shemona, Margaliot, Misgav Am- one rocket intercepted, one fell in Lebanon- first rockets in 3 months from Lebanon

Hostage Updates

Below are a number of articles from the last day about hostage negotiations and multiple proposals: Witkoff, Egypt, Qatar. Each proposal specifies the release of Eden Alexander, the last living US hostage held by Hamas (there are 4 others who were killed on October 7 or in captivity whose bodies are being held by the terrorists). There is so much speculation, assumptions and headline grabbing going on as is typical during times of negotiations and that's what all of it is: speculation and assumptions. There are no real details, agreements, leaks, but worst of all, there aren't real negotiations because Netanyahu hasn't allowed his negotiating team to fully engage in any of these negotiations, nor has he given anyone the green light to actually conclude a negotiation to get the hostages home.
All of the talk and articles speak of small numbers of hostages to be released where it shouldn't be on the table to still have drips and drabs. Any deal must be a one shot deal to bring all 50 hostages in a single release. But none of these things are going to happen because Netanyahu is the one person who can make it happen and he won't because Hamas' demands for any hostage release is for the war to end (a permanent cease fire). After almost a year and half of not reaching any goal of the war because of Netanyahu's inactions, he is not willing to end the war for his own political survival. The lives of the hostages are not important enough for him because he knows that with the end of the war, 2 things will happen immediately and both of them are the 2 things he has done everything to prevent: massive calls and hopefully agreement for an Independent State Commission of Inquiry and massive calls for early elections.
As bad as these reported proposals are, they are better than what we have now which is nothing. No hostages are coming home, reserve soldiers are being called up, we are expanding our fighting into more areas of Gaza, killing more civilians and risking our soldiers' lives, no real negotiations are going on from the Israeli side and NO HOSTAGES ARE COMING HOME!
A real leader would have brought the hostage home a long time ago as the top priority for the nation and a real leader would have established the State Commission of Inquiry. Netanyahu is far from being a real leader.

Posters of Israelis held hostage by Hamas terrorists in Gaza are seen at the Sarona Market in Tel Aviv, March 26, 2025. (Miriam Alster/Flash90)

Egyptian security sources claim Israel gave positive signals about new Gaza proposal
Egypt, one of the mediators in the Gaza ceasefire negotiations, has received positive indications from Israel over a new ceasefire proposal that would include a transitional phase, security sources tell Reuters.
The proposal suggests Hamas release five Israeli hostages each week, sources say.
Asked about the latest proposal, a Palestinian official close to the mediation efforts says, “There are some offers that look better than the previous ones.”
When asked if he expects an announcement today on a breakthrough, he replies: “Maybe not yet.”
US and Qatar reportedly working on new proposal to jumpstart hostage talks
Citing Arab sources, Channel 12 news reports that the US and Qatar are working on a new proposal to jumpstart negotiations on a hostage and ceasefire deal.
The reports says that the proposal would see Hamas free hostage soldier Edan Alexander, the last living captive with American citizenship, in exchange for US President Donald Trump publicly declaring the need for negotiations to resume.
The proposal hasn’t been formally presented to Israel, according to the network, which quotes the Prime Minister’s Office saying it isn’t familiar with the matter.

Exclusive: The Dramatic Proposal Formulated Behind Israel’s Back
According to a Qatari-American proposal, Hamas would release hostage Idan Alexander in exchange for a statement from President Trump calling for renewed negotiations • The proposal was not officially relayed to Israel, but Minister Dermer may have been exposed to it during his US meetings • As fighting continues and hostages remain captive, Netanyahu will hold a special discussion.
Amid ongoing fighting in Gaza and the collapse of the hostage release deal, a dramatic proposal has been formulated behind Israel’s back. Tonight (Thursday), we revealed for the first time on The Main Edition that there is a Qatari-American proposal under which Hamas would release hostage Idan Alexander in exchange for a statement from President Donald Trump supporting renewed negotiations and a ceasefire.
Non-Israeli sources speaking to N12 said the U.S. and Qatar are working behind the scenes on this proposal, which deviates from the standard frameworks discussed so far. The dilemma spans Hamas, the U.S., and Israel.
- For Hamas: It gets a "less confrontational" Trump—a president who doesn’t talk about "gates of hell" but rather negotiations.
- For the U.S.: It secures the release of Idan Alexander, a living American citizen held captive in Gaza.
- For Israel: It "pays nothing" and gets a kidnapped soldier in return.
The proposal has not yet been officially presented to Israel, though Steve Witkoff, Trump’s envoy, may have updated Miniter Ron Dermer on the matter. The Prime Minister’s Office stated they are unaware of the proposal, but Netanyahu will hold a limited discussion tonight on expanding IDF operations in Gaza—where the proposal may come up.
Amid Reports of Renewed Negotiations
The revelation comes as Reuters reports positive momentum toward resuming talks. Egyptian sources cited "positive indications" regarding a new ceasefire proposal. According to the report, the deal includes:
- The release of five hostages per week
- Increased humanitarian aid to Gaza
The Prime Minister’s Office did not comment on the Reuters report but clarified that **no Israeli delegation is involved in the Doha talks**. Meanwhile, Egypt reported sending a delegation to Qatar, and a senior Hamas official claimed, "The organization is interested in returning to an agreement."
Context: Growing Pressure as Hostages Remain Captive
The proposal surfaces as:
Protests by hostage families intensify (Photo: Gili Yaari, Flash 90)
- Netanyahu faces pressure to escalate military action
- Hamas seeks a way to regain leverage without appearing defeated
If the U.S. and Qatar proceed without Israel’s approval, it could mark a major diplomatic rift—while offering Hamas a lifeline.  link
Hamas holds talks with Egyptian and Qatari mediators on reviving Gaza ceasefire
Palestinian sources close to Hamas tell AFP that talks are underway between the terror group and mediators from Egypt and Qatar to revive a ceasefire and hostage release deal for Gaza.
“A meeting began this evening between the Egyptian delegation responsible for negotiations in Doha and a Hamas delegation in an effort to solidify a ceasefire,” says a source who requested anonymity because he is not authorized to speak publicly on the issue.
Mediators from Qatar are also involved in the discussions, the source adds.
Talks are focusing on the possibility of implementing a truce during the Eid al-Fitr and Jewish Passover holidays, as well as ensuring the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, the source says.
“Mediators are engaging in intensive discussions with all parties to cement the ceasefire and move toward the second phase of the agreement,” he adds.
He says Hamas has expressed a willingness to respond “positively” to any proposal that halts the fighting.
Another Palestinian source close to Hamas says that despite the discussions, “no breakthrough” has been achieved so far.
“A prisoner exchange and ceasefire agreement are possible, but their success depends on [Israel’s] approval and its willingness not to obstruct the process,” the source says.
“Mediators are presenting proposals that are currently under review.”
Hamas receives US offer to revive ceasefire in exchange for American hostage’s release
Proposal envisions Trump issuing statement calling for Gaza calm, resumption of talks for permanent ceasefire, but diplomat says Hamas likely to demand more for Edan Alexander
Qatar has presented Hamas with a new US proposal to restore the ceasefire in Gaza through the release of American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander, a senior Arab diplomat told The Times of Israel on Thursday.

A protester holds up a cutout of Edan Alexander's face at a rally calling for the release of the hostages, at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, March 15, 2025. (Avshalom Sassoni/Flash90)
In exchange for Alexander’s release, US President Donald Trump would issue a statement calling for calm in Gaza and the resumption of negotiations for a permanent ceasefire, the diplomat said, confirming reports on Channel 12 and the Axios news site.
The Arab diplomat expressed skepticism that Hamas would agree to release Alexander for only a statement from Trump and said the terror group would likely ask for something more substantial, given its skepticism regarding Israel’s willingness to adhere to agreements. Alexander is one of the remaining 59 hostages — 24 of whom are still alive, according to Israeli intelligence assessments.
Hamas has already refused a proposal from US special envoy to the Mideast Steve Witkoff, which sought to extend the first phase of the ceasefire. The group has insisted on sticking to the terms of the deal signed in January, which was due to enter its second phase on March 2. That phase envisions the release of all remaining living hostages in exchange for a full IDF withdrawal from Gaza and an end to the war.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has refused to end the war until Hamas’s military and governing capabilities have been dismantled and has accordingly refused to enter the second phase, instead pushing for an extension of the phase one temporary ceasefire. After more than two weeks in a holding pattern, Israel renewed intensive military operations throughout Gaza on March 18.
Egypt subsequently worked to convince Hamas to accept a proposal largely similar to the one proposed by Witkoff earlier this month, which envisioned the release of five living hostages in exchange for an extension of phase one through April 19 during which the sides would hold talks on the terms of the phase two permanent ceasefire.
Cairo threatened to deport a group of Palestinian security prisoners who have been stranded in Cairo since being released earlier this year as part of the Gaza ceasefire’s first phase. Hamas leaders abroad responded positively to the offer, but they were overruled by the terror group’s Gaza leader Muhammad Sinwar, the Arab diplomat said.
Following that rejection, Witkoff held talks with Qatari mediators to come up with a new proposal, and the US envoy presented it to Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer on Wednesday, according to the Axios news site.
The previous US effort to secure the release of American hostages was vehemently opposed by Dermer and Netanyahu, who felt it might pave the way for a more permanent ceasefire ending the war before Hamas has been removed from power, the Arab diplomat said.
Hamas has yet to respond to the latest US proposal, but Qatari mediators told the terror group that compliance would create goodwill for them with Trump, making it more likely that he will push Netanyahu to agree to a permanent ceasefire, the diplomat added.
Qatari and Egyptian mediators met with a Hamas delegation in Doha on Thursday evening to discuss the latest US proposal, the Arab diplomat said.
How Israel will respond to it is also unclear.
Netanyahu held consultations with his security chiefs and top advisers on Thursday to discuss the matter, according to an Israeli official.
Netanyahu on Wednesday threatened to intensify Israel’s military campaign in Gaza if Hamas didn’t begin releasing hostages, saying the IDF would begin occupying additional parts of the Strip.
The premier insisted earlier this week that Israel is nearing the defeat of Hamas — something he has been claiming for over a year.
Critics have argued that additional military operations endanger the remaining hostages and won’t accomplish what Israel was unable to do during the first 15-plus months of the war. Arab allies have instead proposed sidelining Hamas through a diplomatic initiative that includes gradually returning the Palestinian Authority to govern Gaza — something Netanyahu has flatly rejected.
Egyptian plan would free 5 living hostages on day one, with releases every 7-10 days
Diplomats say that the outline would guarantee talks on the second phase; Israel continues to deny receiving any new proposal from Cairo
An Egyptian proposal to end renewed fighting in Gaza would see five living hostages released on the first day of the restored ceasefire, with another five living hostages released every 7-10 days, two foreign diplomats with knowledge of the details told The Times of Israel on Wednesday.
Dual US-Israeli citizen Edan Alexander would be released on the first day, said the diplomats.
The Prime Minister’s Office has denied receiving any new Egyptian proposal.
According to the diplomats, the IDF would withdraw to the positions it held during the first phase of the ceasefire that collapsed earlier this month. Israeli troops held a buffer zone inside the border with Gaza and were stationed on the Philadelphi Corridor, but had withdrawn from the Netzarim Corridor dividing the Strip in two.
Since the resumption of fighting in Gaza last week, IDF ground troops have reoccupied part of the Netzarim corridor.
However, under the Egyptian proposal, the sides would negotiate over the IDF’s withdrawal from the Philadelphi Corridor, which runs along the Gazan side of the border with Egypt.

Varda Ben Baruch, whose grandson Edan Alexander is held hostage in the Gaza Strip by Hamas terrorists, wears tape marking the days since his capture at her home in Tel Aviv, November 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)
The outlines also guaranteed that negotiations over Phase Two of the ceasefire would take place, something Israel had avoided engaging in despite agreeing to do so.
In mid-January, Israel and Hamas reached a hostage-ceasefire and prisoner-release deal that officially lasted 42 days and saw the terror group release 30 living hostages and the bodies of eight slain captives, while Israel released almost 2,000 terrorists and other prisoners before the expiration of the deal’s first phase.
The deal had originally envisioned a second phase that would see a permanent end to the war in exchange for the release of the remaining hostages and many more Palestinian security prisoners.
Israel would release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners under the Egyptian plan as well.
Mid-level Israeli teams have made multiple trips to Cairo over the past two weeks to discuss the proposal, according to one of the diplomats.
Egypt presented the proposal last week, security sources told Reuters on Monday, with a Hamas official saying that the terror group had “responded positively” to the idea.
The security sources added that the US also agreed to Egypt’s plan, but an Israeli official denied on Monday that Jerusalem had received any such proposal.
According to the Israeli official, Israel is still trying to get Hamas to agree to a US-backed proposal spearheaded by Trump’s special envoy to the Mideast, Steve Witkoff, which would not entail a full Israeli withdrawal from the Strip.
The narrower “Witkoff proposal” rejected by Hamas thus far, would have seen the ceasefire extended through April 19 and have the terror group release five living hostages in exchange for a large number of Palestinian security prisoners.
Israel said it accepted Witkoff’s proposal but was seeking the release of 11 living hostages.
If Hamas does not agree to Israel’s terms, “we will keep increasing the pressure until Hamas breaks,” the official said on Monday, threatening “a widespread ground campaign” in Gaza.
Netanyahu ordered the resumption of fighting in Gaza last week, saying that talks moving forward would be held under fire after Hamas rejected proposals to extend phase one of the ceasefire.
Hamas has insisted on sticking to the original terms of the deal, which was supposed to begin its second phase at the beginning of March.
For a month, though, Israel refused to enter talks on the specific terms of phase two, as the stage’s general framework requires it to withdraw fully from Gaza and agree to a permanent end of the war. full article
Bipartisan group of US lawmakers nominates hostage families forum for Nobel Peace Prize

Lishay Miran Lavi (center) at the Knesset on March 18, 2025 (Hostages Families Forum)
A bipartisan group of 14 members of the US House of Representatives send a letter to the Nobel committee nominating the Hostages and Missing Families Forum for the Nobel Peace Prize.
“Through unfathomable anguish and heartbreak, these families have become the conscience of the world, steadfastly reminding the world that their loved ones are not bargaining chips or statistics, but human beings—each with names, stories, and families waiting to embrace them,” the representatives write in their letter. “Undaunted by the horrors of their loved ones’ captivity and the dashed hopes of promised rescue agreements always just over the horizon, the members of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum have not only shown extraordinary grace and humanity, they have helped the world see the humanity of all those suffering the devastation of war.”
“The Nobel Peace Prize has long honored those who elevate humanity’s highest ideals in the face of oppression. In honoring the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, the committee would reaffirm a fundamental truth: that every life is sacred, that no act of terror can erase our shared humanity, and that the pursuit of justice must never waver. Their nomination is not just about the hostages. It is about the essential principle that the world cannot look away.”
Orange-hued tombstone unveiled for Shiri Bibas and her sons Ariel and Kfir
A joint gravestone has been placed for murdered hostages Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and baby Kfir, a month after they were buried together in southern Israel following the return of their remains from Gaza.
In a nod to the color of their hair, which became a sign of support for the family, the tomb stone is orange-hued and includes the names and nicknames of the mother and her sons, along with epitaphs.

Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas (Courtesy)
“It was you who made living all worth while, oh lovin’ you it’s the best,” reads an inscription in English.

Yarden Bibas covering the coffin of his wife Shiri and sons Ariel and Kfir during the slain hostages’ funeral near Kibbutz Nir Oz, February 26, 2025. (Eitan Uner/Hostages and Missing Families Forum)

Gaza and the South

IDF and Shin Bet confirm killing Hamas spokesman in Gaza strike
Hamas spokesman Abdelatif al-Qanou speaking to an Arabic television station on October 7, 2018. (Screenshot: Youtube)
The IDF and Shin Bet, in a joint statement, confirm killing Hamas spokesman Abdul Latif al-Qanou in an airstrike in the northern Gaza Strip last night.
According to the military and Shin Bet, Qanou also served as an operative in the terror group’s military wing, in addition to being one of Hamas’s “key inciters” as its spokesman.
“Qanou systematically used media platforms for propaganda purposes, psychological terror, and the distribution of false information regarding Hamas’s activities in the Gaza Strip and outside of it,” the statement says.
“For years, Qanou was one of Hamas’s key spokesmen, spreading lies, inciting terrorist activities, and advancing the terrorist organization’s agenda, which calls for the destruction of the State of Israel,” it adds.
‘Time is running out’: Gallant calls to prioritize hostages’ return over destroying Hamas
Former defense minister Yoav Gallant calls for Israel to prioritize the return of hostages over destroying Hamas.
“Time is running out. First return the hostages and then replace Hamas rule. If we act in the opposite way, there won’t be anyone to return,” Gantz says during an event at Netanya Academic College, according to Hebrew media reports.
I am not sure that the national need to return the hostages will outweigh the political considerations,” he adds.
A handout photo shows a multiple rocket launcher that Israeli forces uncovered in southern Gaza's Rafah, March 27, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)

Protests Against Hamas Expand: Clans' Announcement and Call for a "Day of Rage"

Gaza clans are joining the protests that began in recent days against Hamas • In a statement attributed to the clans, they demanded the withdrawal of the IDF and called for an end to Hamas' rule • The clans warned the militias established by the terrorist organization: "Any act of suppression will be met in kind" • Hamas accused Israel of being behind the protests and attacked: "Those behind this activity caused Israel to withdraw from negotiations—and they will be dealt with."
In a statement attributed to clans in the southern Gaza Strip published today (Thursday), the clans announced their joining of the protests against Hamas. They demanded the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Strip and called for an end to Hamas' rule. "We warn against militias established by Hamas to suppress our people and emphasize our commitment to non-violent protests and maintaining security. Any act of suppression will be met in kind," the clans declared.
Additionally, the clans called for participation in a "Friday of Rage" tomorrow, where the public will take to the streets to demand an end to the war and Hamas' rule. "The Palestinian people seek a solution that will restore security and peace to our nation," the statement read.
Unlike yesterday, protest locations were reduced today, and as of this afternoon, demonstrations were held only in two areas in the northern Strip—Jabaliya and Beit Lahia—with dozens participating. In Jabaliya, protesters were heard chanting, "Hamas is terrorist."
Among the documented signs were: one against Osama Hamdan reading, "Go to hell, you spy," another saying, "For the sake of Allah, Hamas out," and an inciting sign against IDF Arabic spokesperson Avichay Adraee and Middle East analyst Eyal Cohen.
Hamas' security apparatus warned against messages allegedly sent by Israeli intelligence officers. The messages contained "explicit calls to take to the streets against the resistance," and in a published statement, Hamas wrote: "The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said—'The greatest jihad in the eyes of Allah is a word of truth spoken to a tyrannical ruler.' Defend your future and the future of your children now! Always at your service, Captain Abu Yahya, message me on WhatsApp."
Gaza residents protest against Hamas and the continuation of the war (Photo: Flash 90)
Hamas' security forces also warned against "the enemy's attempts to create internal division, especially after the statements by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz regarding protests against the resistance until the hostages are returned."
Gaza's terrorist organizations issued a joint statement following the protests: "They insist on blaming the resistance while ignoring the fact that the Zionist war machine operates relentlessly. The suspicious elements demanding an end to the resistance and surrender ignore the facts. Resistance is the legitimate right of our people by all means, primarily armed struggle. Israel is solely responsible for all harm inflicted on the Palestinian people, and it will pay a heavy price for its crimes."
Gaza residents protest against Hamas and the continuation of the war (Photo: Flash 90)
"Those behind this suspicious activity caused Israel to withdraw from the negotiating table due to its reliance on the success of these agents in stabbing the resistance in the back," the terrorist organizations added. "Therefore, these suspects are just as responsible as Israel for the bloodshed of our people, and they will be dealt with accordingly."
In recent days, protests against Hamas have begun, taking place in several key locations across the Strip, including areas known as Hamas strongholds. As mentioned, the terrorist organization has tried to suppress the uprising, including by having Islamic Jihad fire from areas where protests were planned and by mobilizing forces to act against the crowds. link

IDF, police say they thwarted attempt to smuggle weapons into Israel from Egypt by drone
The IDF and police say they foiled an attempt to smuggle nine assault rifles into Israel from Egypt last night, using a drone.
The drone had been identified crossing the border into Israel before it was downed by troops and police officers deployed to the area.
The drone and guns were handed over to the police for further investigation.
Earlier in the day yesterday, IDF troops caught another drone ferrying 10 kilograms of drugs.
In recent months, there have been frequent attempts to bring weapons and drugs over the Egyptian border using drones. There have also been attempts to smuggle similar contraband from Israel into Gaza using drones.

Northern Israel, Lebanon and Syria

IDF says drone strike targeted 2 Hezbollah operatives in southern Lebanon
The IDF says it carried out a drone strike on two Hezbollah operatives who were spotted in southern Lebanon’s Baraashit a short while ago.
It releases footage of the strike Link
IDF strikes Beirut, southern Lebanon after 2 rockets fired at northern Israel
First airstrikes on Lebanese capital since ceasefire announced in November; one rocket intercepted, second failed to cross border; Hezbollah says it is not behind rocket attack

Smoke billows from the site of an Israeli strike in the southern Lebanese village of Khiam, on March 28, 2025. (Rabih Daher/AFP)

Two rockets were fired at northern Israel from Lebanon on Friday morning, leading the military to carry out strikes first in southern Lebanon and later in the capital, Beirut, a first since the November ceasefire went into effect.
According to the military, one of the rockets was intercepted and the other fell inside Lebanese territory, as rocket sirens sounded in the city of Kiryat Shmona and the nearby communities of Tel Hai, Margaliot and Misgav Am.
It was the second attack within the past week, after three rockets were fired at Metula on March 22, the first such incident since the November 27 ceasefire ended over a year of fighting with the Hezbollah terror group.
A senior source within Hezbollah told the Lebanese Al-Mayadeen news outlet that the terror group has no connection to the rocket fire on Friday.
The source claimed that the recent rocket fire from Lebanon is “part of a suspicious attempt to fabricate pretexts for the continuation of the Israeli aggression on Lebanon.”
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam issued a statement calling on the military to “uncover those behind the irresponsible rocket fire that threatens Lebanon’s stability and security,” and taken them into custody.
Following the attack, the IDF said Friday morning it was carrying out a wave of strikes on Hezbollah targets in the south of the country, and later that afternoon strikes were reported by Lebanese media on a building in southern Beirut following a warning issued by Israel.
According to Hezbollah’s Al-Manar news outlet, targeted areas included the outskirts of Qaaqaait al-Jisr and the town of Khiam in the Nabatieh area of southern Lebanon.
The IDF issued an evacuation warning Friday afternoon for a building and the surrounding area in Beirut’s southern suburbs. In a post on X, the IDF’s Arabic-language spokesman, Col. Avichay Adraee, published a map showing the location of the building. “To everyone present in the building marked in red as shown on the map and the buildings adjacent to it: You are present near facilities belonging to Hezbollah,” he said.
The statement called on civilians to evacuate at least 300 meters from the building for safety.
The notice came after Defense Minister Israel Katz warned Friday morning that “the fate of Kiryat Shmona is the same as the fate of Beirut,” in an apparent threat to the Lebanese capital.
He said that without peace in Israel’s northern border communities, “there will be no peace in Beirut either.”
“The Lebanese government bears direct responsibility for any attacks on the Galilee,” he charged. “We will ensure the security of the residents of the Galilee, and will act forcefully against any threat.”
Earlier this week, a Lebanese official said Lebanese leaders have been in intensive contact with Washington and Paris to prevent Israel from bombing Beirut after the rocket fire on March 22.
Israel has continued to carry out strikes on Hezbollah operatives and members of affiliated terror groups since a ceasefire in November, following two months of open war aimed at ending rocket attacks from the Iran-backed group that plagued the north for nearly a year.
The terror group started firing rockets and drones at Israeli communities and military posts on October 8, 2023, in support of fellow terror group Hamas, which had invaded Israel from the Gaza Strip a day earlier.
Israeli soldiers guard the Israeli border fence with Lebanon, northern Israel, March 22, 2025. (Ayal Margolin/Flash90)
Israel says it targets Hezbollah military sites that violate the ceasefire agreement.
Under the ceasefire, Hezbollah was obligated to pull its forces north of the Litani River, about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from the Israeli border, and dismantle any remaining military infrastructure in the south, while the Lebanese army deployed to control the area.
Israel, in parallel, was obligated to withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon, though it retains the right to respond to immediate threats.
Following an initial postponement, with US and Lebanese approval, of the deadline to withdraw, Israel pulled all its troops out of Lebanon in February, except five strategic posts along the border. link a return to bombing Lebanon is the answer of fools and people who don't want to end the wars. Anyone with an ounce of statesmenship and diplomatic outlook and horizons would see this as an opportunity to engage with the new Lebanese government and put the depression of Hizbollah in their hands. A return to bombing doesn't serve us other than to say that we are stronger and can blow you apart. They already know that based on what we have already destroyed in Lebanon and within Beirut. We have Netanyahu who is doing everything to protect his political position, future and legacy, Defense Minister Katz who is no more than a yesman to Netanyahu, and Foreign Minister Saar who is the furthest from a diplomat that we can get. He has his hawkish views and has no stopped speaking out against the new Syrian Government, which looks to be another opportunity that he is incapable of seeing as such. These are not statesmen. They are petty politicians who can't see beyond their little political lives. We are deserving of better.
IDF says it struck Hezbollah drone storage facility in Beirut
video
Residents flee southern Beirut suburbs by car and on foot after IDF evacuation warning
Residents of the southern Beirut suburb of Hadath are seen fleeing in panic, rushing to escape by car and on foot after the IDF issued an evacuation warning for a building in the area.
Gunfire was heard in the southern suburbs, a known Hezbollah stronghold, following the Israeli warning, which witnesses say was a signal to leave the area ahead of the planned strike.
Lebanon PM instructs army to find, arrest people responsible for rocket fire at Israel
Hezbollah source claims terror group was not involved in earlier rocket fire
Lebanon and Syria sign border demarcation agreement, easing tensions after fall of Assad
Lebanon and Syria have signed an agreement on border demarcation and boosting coordination between the two countries regarding security along their tense frontier, the Saudi Press Agency reports.
The deal signed by the Lebanese and Syrian defense ministers in Saudi Arabia late in the day yesterday came after clashes in border areas earlier this month left several people dead and dozens wounded on both sides.

The plan for border demarcation also comes after the ouster in early December of the 54-year Assad family rule in Syria, leading to tensions along the frontier where Lebanon’s Hezbollah terror group was active on both sides of the border during Syria’s 14-year civil war.

Lebanese Defense Minister Michel Menassa was scheduled to visit the Syrian capital, Damascus, on Wednesday, but the visit was canceled.

Menassa and his Syrian counterpart, Murhaf Abu Qasra, later flew to Jiddah in Saudi Arabia yesterday, where they held talks attended by Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman and signed the deal.

The Saudi agency says the Lebanese and Syrian ministers signed an agreement in which both sides agreed on the “strategic importance of demarcating their border,” and the formation of legal and specialized committees in different fields. It adds that both countries agreed to “activate coordination mechanisms” to deal with any security challenges along the border.

It says Saudi Arabia backs security and stability in both countries, which boosts regional security.

West Bank, Jerusalem, Israel and Terror Attacks

Politics and the War and General News

Legal Legislation Charges Ahead – While Reservist Turnout Declines

The defense establishment is alarmed by the declining turnout of reservists—which has plummeted. Commanders on the ground report attendance of only about 60%, compared to 130% at the start of the war. A senior IDF official: "The reservists are exhausted. We cannot play games with this." Meanwhile, this morning, the Knesset approved changes to the composition of the Judicial Selection Committee.

Against the backdrop of the government’s advancing judicial overhaul, the IDF and defense establishment are assessing the readiness of the reserve system, as reported this evening (Thursday) on "The Main Edition." The military has identified a growing erosion in reservist turnout during the war, compounded by frustration over the progress of the judicial overhaul.

According to official IDF data, the current reservist turnout rate stands at 80%, down from 130% at the start of the war. However, field commanders report even lower numbers—around 60%.

Just in the past two days, the IDF has conducted significant operations in the north, and the military remains active across all fronts. A senior IDF official warned: "The reservists are running on empty. Anyone who says otherwise is lying. We are at the very edge. Are they showing up? Yes. But we cannot afford to gamble with this."

Knesset Approves Changes to Judicial Selection Committee

The Knesset plenum approved this morning the law altering the composition of the Judicial Selection Committee. The bill, passed by a vote of 67 in favor to one against, weakens the influence of professional members on the committee and strengthens the power of politicians. This is part of the judicial reforms led by Justice Minister Yariv Levin and other coalition figures. Opposition members walked out of the plenum and boycotted the final vote.

Under the law, shaped by the Sa'ar-Levin compromise, the representatives of the Israel Bar Association on the committee will be replaced by two lawyers chosen by Knesset members—one from the coalition and one from the opposition. This gives the coalition four representatives on the committee and the opposition two. The majority required to appoint judges will be five, provided at least one comes from the coalition and one from the opposition. link

Thousands rally in Tel Aviv for hostages and against ‘the Oct. 7 government’

People take part in a rally against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government at Habima Square, March 27, 2025. (Tomer Neuberg/Flash90)

Thousands of Israelis protested for the release of the hostages and against the government earlier tonight at Tel Aviv’s Habima Square.

Hundreds of participants then joined hostage Matan Zangauker’s mother, Einav, in marching to the nearby Begin Gate. Police officers — some on horseback — sought to prevent demonstrators from blocking the road, leading to a clash that saw several protesters thrown to the ground. Seven protesters were arrested, according to Hebrew media reports.

Addressing the earlier Habimah protest, former IDF general Noam Tibon asserted that the IDF’s renewed military operations are endangering the hostages.

Demonstrators clash with police during a protest march for the release of Israelis held hostage in the Gaza Strip in Tel Aviv, March 27, 2025. (Itai Ron/Flash90)

“But the October 7 government doesn’t care about this. They are busy toasting the passage of their budget,” Tibon said.

Former police chief Roni Alsheich told the crowd that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is acting against the national interest and called on fellow members of the national religious camp to speak out against the premier and his government.

The protest was held against the backdrop of the government’s passage of key judicial overhaul legislation and an ongoing impasse in the hostage negotiations.

Demonstrators protest march for the release of Israelis held hostage in the Gaza Strip, in Tel Aviv, March 27, 2025. (Itai Ron/Flash9)

The Region and the World

Israel provided intel for US strike on Houthi official mentioned in Signal chat — WSJ
Israel provided intelligence from a human source in Yemen about a senior Houthi figure who was targeted in the American airstrike that US President Donald Trump’s national security adviser discussed in a group chat on the Signal messaging app, the Wall Street Journal reports.
A US official quoted in the report says Israeli officials have privately complained that the texts were exposed, after Atlantic magazine editor Jeffrey Goldberg was mistakenly added to the group.
The text in question says: “Typing too fast. The first target — their top missile guy — we had positive ID of him walking into girlfriend’s building and it’s now collapsed.” link Unfortunately, this is not the first time that a Trump administration has exposed human intelligence supplied by Israel which puts at risk both the people who provided the intelligence in secret ways and the methods of the intelligence gathering. In Trump's first administration, at the very beginning, Trump himself exposed Israeli provided human intelligence about certain sensitive and classified information and he exposed it to no other than the Russian Foreign Minister and Russian Ambassodor to the US in the Oval Office. Nobody could ever accuse the Trump administration of being careful about secret and classified intelligence. These are some of the reasons that European allies and Israel are deliberating amongst themselves regarding future intelligence sharing with the US.
Houthi media reports intense wave of US airstrikes on Yemen’s capital

Personal Stories

Acronyms and Glossary

COGAT - Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories

ICC - International Criminal Court in the Hague

IJC - International Court of Justice in the Hague

IPS - Israel Prison System

MDA - Magen David Adom - Israel Ambulance Corp

PA - Palestinian Authority - President Mahmud Abbas, aka Abu Mazen

PMO- Prime Minister's Office

UAV - Unmanned Aerial vehicle, Drone. Could be used for surveillance and reconnaissance, or be weaponized with missiles or contain explosives for 'suicide' explosion mission

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