April
The court lifted the gag order on "Qatargate," revealing Netanyahu's aides Urich and Feldstein allegedly took money to promote Qatar as hostage mediator while diminishing Egypt's role. The judge extended their detention until Thursday, rejecting police requests for nine days.

In a surprising overnight reversal, Netanyahu canceled Eli Sharvit's appointment as Shin Bet chief just 24 hours after announcing it, reportedly due to pressure from right-wing allies over Sharvit's past criticism of judicial reform.

The IDF eliminated a Hezbollah operative in Beirut's Dahieh neighborhood who was directing Hamas militants planning an imminent attack against hundreds of Israelis abroad, leading to heightened security alerts.

A damning State Comptroller report revealed serious security failures at northern border positions before October 7, which Netanyahu and defense officials allegedly knew about but failed to address.

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett registered a new political party, tentatively named "Bennett 2026."
The IDF launched a ground operation in Rafah following weeks of preparations, with Palestinian sources reporting at least 16 casualties from intensive air and naval bombardments that preceded the incursion. By afternoon, Netanyahu revealed the strategic objective: capturing the "Morag Axis," which he termed "Philadelphia 2" - a corridor between Rafah and Khan Younis extending to the Mediterranean that would effectively bisect southern Gaza.

In domestic politics, Netanyahu appointed Shin Bet deputy chief "S" as acting director after withdrawing Eli Sharvit's controversial nomination, effectively circumventing a Supreme Court ruling. The "Qatargate" investigation intensified with police confronting advisors Urich and Feldstein over contradicting testimonies.

By evening, Trump announced global tariffs including a surprising 17% on all Israeli exports to the US, despite Israel's compliance with previous US agricultural tariff demands.
Trump's imposition of a 17% tariff on Israeli exports dominated morning headlines, creating what media termed an "economic earthquake" despite Israel's compliance with previous agricultural tariff demands.

The "Qatargate" investigation continued with three senior journalists summoned to testify while the court extended detention of Netanyahu's aides Urich and Feldstein by only one day instead of the requested seven. Following a "stormy" confrontation between the suspects, the judge noted lack of evidence for national security implications.

By afternoon, the IDF released its investigation into the Nova festival massacre, revealing Hamas terrorists accidentally discovered the party after taking a wrong turn. Critical failures included: the festival wasn't registered as requiring protection, forces were unaware of its existence, and military help arrived five hours after the attack began.

In the evening, the family of hostage Matan Angrest released distressing footage of his kidnapping and interrogation in captivity after 545 days, showing him beaten and pleading to see his family.
The IDF expanded its buffer zone operations in northern Gaza, particularly in Shuja'iyya neighborhood, while eliminating Hamas commanders in both Gaza and Lebanon. Most notably, forces killed the terrorist who commanded the Bibas family kidnapping.

Morning reports detailed an October 7 investigation into Kibbutz Nirim, revealing that 150 terrorists breached the community while IDF forces arrived seven hours after the initial infiltration, continuing the pattern of military failures exposed in yesterday's Nova festival investigation.

By midday, Netanyahu advisers Urich and Feldstein were released to house arrest in the "Qatargate" case, with the judge criticizing police investigation methods. However, the afternoon was dominated by outgoing Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar's unprecedented letter claiming Netanyahu fired him for refusing to provide a security assessment that would prevent the Prime Minister from testifying in his corruption trial. Attorney General Baharav-Miara told the Supreme Court that Bar's dismissal was "tainted by conflict of interest."
The White House confirmed Netanyahu's urgent visit to Washington on Monday to meet with Trump, primarily to discuss tariffs that have rocked global markets, along with Iran and the hostage situation. This makes Netanyahu the first foreign leader to negotiate in person with Trump on his new trade policies.

A New York Times video contradicting the IDF's version of events regarding killed Rafah paramedics prompted an official investigation. Meanwhile, the IDF destroyed Syrian regime military equipment at an old outpost, while US operations against Houthis have cost nearly $1 billion in less than three weeks.

By afternoon, Hamas released the first proof of life from hostages Maxim Herkin and Bar Kupershtein after 547 days in captivity, spurring emotional responses. Former hostages delivered powerful testimonies at a large Tel Aviv rally, with Liri Albag describing captivity as servants during last Passover and Omer Venkert directly challenging Netanyahu to face him in the cabinet.

A scandal erupted after recordings revealed the Shin Bet's Jewish Department chief admitted to arresting settlers without evidence.
US deployment of two Patriot and one THAAD missile defense systems to Israel dominated morning reports amid Iran tensions. By midday, leaked recordings of the Shin Bet's Jewish Division head emerged, revealing he allegedly ordered arrests of West Bank settlers without evidence, calling them "shmucks" and referring to Border Police as "Phalangists." The official suspended himself pending investigation.

The controversy escalated when Netanyahu, en route to Washington for urgent meetings with Trump about tariffs, blocked Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar from investigating the matter, claiming Bar was "involved." The Attorney General responded that Bar maintains full authority during his remaining tenure.

Foreign Minister Katz revealed intercepted documents showing Hamas requested $500 million from Iran in 2021 "for Israel's destruction." By evening, Hamas launched its largest rocket barrage in months, firing 10 rockets toward southern Israel, injuring three in Ashkelon, prompting residents to question victory claims after living under fire for 18 months.
Netanyahu arrived in Washington as Hamas launched rockets at southern Israel, injuring several in Ashkelon. The morning was dominated by former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen's explosive revelation that Netanyahu once asked him to disqualify Bennett from the security cabinet based on false military service claims. Bennett responded that Netanyahu suffered from "paranoia" and wanted to "eliminate" him.

Security forces arrested nine suspected infiltrators on Highway 6 after a dramatic chase, while reports emerged of a new Egyptian proposal offering to release 8 hostages in exchange for a 40-70 day ceasefire.

During his White House meeting with Netanyahu, Trump unexpectedly announced direct talks with Iran would begin Saturday, warning Tehran would be "in great danger" if negotiations failed. Netanyahu expressed conditional support for a deal that would "fully stop Iran's nuclear program" while promising to resolve trade barrier issues with the US.
The Supreme Court hearing on Netanyahu's dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar dominated news coverage. The chaotic proceedings were repeatedly disrupted by a bereaved father and MK Tali Gotliv, forcing Justice Amit to temporarily suspend the hearing and ultimately expel the audience. After 11 hours, the court issued an interim order freezing Bar's dismissal "until further notice," prohibiting Netanyahu from appointing a replacement while allowing candidate interviews to continue.

Meanwhile, confusion surrounded Trump's announcement of direct nuclear talks with Iran, as Iranian officials contradicted his claim, stating negotiations would be indirect through Omani mediation. The Israeli delegation was reportedly caught off guard by the announcement.

Netanyahu, returning from Washington, issued threats regarding the potential Iran deal, declaring that an acceptable agreement would require "explosion and dismantling" of Iran's nuclear facilities, warning of military action if negotiations stalled.
A senior Hezbollah official signaled unprecedented willingness to discuss disarmament if Israel withdraws from Lebanon, dominating morning headlines while Israeli security officials expressed skepticism. The IDF's investigation into the October 7 Sderot battle revealed critical failures: 11 unopened shelters, emergency teams lacking weapons, communication breakdowns between military and police, and 1,000 troops unnecessarily converging on the city while border areas remained vulnerable.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu testified in his corruption trial despite extreme fatigue after returning from Washington, criticizing former police chief Alsheich and calling the law enforcement system "a dark regime." Netanyahu also convened a security cabinet without Shin Bet chief Bar despite a Supreme Court ruling against his exclusion.

By afternoon, the IDF struck Shuja'iyya in Gaza, reportedly killing a Hamas battalion commander and dozens of others. Trump unexpectedly froze his tariff plan for 90 days for most countries while raising China's tariffs to 125%, causing stock markets to jump. Trump later threatened joint US-Israeli military action against Iran if nuclear talks fail.
Approximately 1,000 Air Force reservists published a letter demanding an immediate end to the Gaza war to prioritize hostage return, triggering a swift dismissal order from the IDF Chief and Air Force Commander for active signatories. Netanyahu labeled them "refusers" while over 150 Navy officers later joined the protest.

Trump stated that Israel would lead any military strike against Iran if nuclear negotiations fail, contradicting earlier Israeli claims of being surprised by US-Iran talks. Israeli-Turkish dialogue commenced through Azerbaijani mediation, with Israel drawing a "red line" regarding Turkish military presence in Syria.

A military investigation into Kibbutz Re'im's October 7 battle revealed how a six-member civilian emergency squad heroically defended against 80 Hamas terrorists, preventing them from reaching the strategic Nevatim Air Base.

By evening, Trump announced "we are getting closer to bringing back the hostages," while Israeli officials acknowledged movement in negotiations but cautioned an agreement isn't imminent.
The morning began with optimism about hostage negotiations, as drafts were exchanged between Israel and Egypt while Trump claimed "we're getting close." This momentum was quickly overshadowed when 250 reservists from Intelligence Unit 8200 joined Air Force personnel in demanding policy changes to prioritize hostage return.

Netanyahu responded harshly, calling signatories "disconnected, anarchistic pensioners" and "weeds," threatening immediate dismissal. The Air Force commander echoed this position, stating protest "has no place during wartime."

By afternoon, focus shifted to Ron Dermer's controversial appointment as lead negotiator, with CNN reporting his role had caused "significant slowdown" in hostage talks. Hostage families demanded "a deal or resign."

Iranian politics entered the picture with reports that senior officials had warned Khamenei to allow US nuclear talks or risk regime collapse.

The day concluded with Hapoel Tel Aviv's historic EuroCup basketball victory, providing a rare moment of national celebration.
The IDF completed the encirclement of Rafah by capturing the "Morag Corridor," separating Rafah from Khan Younis in what officials called "New Philadelphia." Defense Minister Katz announced Rafah would become a buffer zone with operations soon expanding across most of Gaza.

US-Iran nuclear talks began in Oman with Iran's foreign minister receiving "full authority" from Khamenei and reportedly speaking directly with US envoy Witkoff. The first round concluded "positively" with plans to resume next week. This follows reports that senior Iranian officials had warned Khamenei to allow negotiations.

Hamas released a proof-of-life video of American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander, timed to coincide with Passover. In the video, Alexander states "this is not a holiday of freedom" while hostages remain captive. Reports emerged that a Hamas delegation was heading to Cairo for ceasefire negotiations.

Hapoel Tel Aviv basketball team returned to Israel following their historic EuroCup championship.
The IDF struck a Hamas command center inside Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza after evacuation warnings, asserting military control over 40% of Gaza territory as part of an expanded strategy. The attack coincided with intensifying internal dissent as 250 former Mossad officials and 200 doctors joined Air Force reservists in supporting prioritization of hostage return.

By afternoon, Houthi missile launches from Yemen triggered widespread alerts across central Israel, with IDF reporting successful interception. Hamas released a disturbing proof-of-life video of American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander appearing physically and mentally distressed after 555 days in captivity, with his explicit plea "Why am I not home?"

In diplomatic developments, US-Iran nuclear talks continued with "positive atmosphere" though reports indicated the US did not demand complete nuclear dismantlement. The day was further marked by ethnic violence, with three Arab-Israeli men murdered in separate incidents across Arab communities.
Morning reports focused on an emerging Israeli proposal to release ten living hostages in exchange for a 45-day ceasefire, with Netanyahu personally updating hostage families. Hamas reportedly signaled flexibility on increasing the number of releases but maintained its demand for war-ending guarantees.

By afternoon, diplomatic "chess games" between the US and Iran took center stage, with Trump threatening military strikes on nuclear facilities if Tehran fails to cooperate in upcoming talks scheduled for Saturday in Rome.

IDF Chief of Staff Zamir told the cabinet that conquering Gaza completely is a "fantasy" due to severe troop shortages, echoing growing military dissent from the previous days.

A mysterious new security affair emerged under a gag order, reportedly involving leaked classified information. Meanwhile, Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar announced his resignation within weeks, continuing the institutional crisis that began with Netanyahu's attempt to dismiss him.
A major security scandal erupted with the revelation that a Shin Bet reservist was arrested for leaking classified information to Minister Amichai Shikli and journalists regarding an investigation into "Kahanism" infiltrating police ranks. Netanyahu and the Likud launched unprecedented attacks against Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, labeling parts of the agency a "private militia" serving the "deep state." This prompted Finance Minister Smotrich to announce a boycott of security meetings attended by Bar, causing Netanyahu to cancel a planned security discussion.

In parallel, Hamas rejected Israel's latest proposal for a 45-day ceasefire and release of 10 living hostages plus 16 bodies, citing Israel's refusal to end the war permanently. The IDF Chief of Staff rebuked military reservists for their protest letters, emphasizing the military must remain above political disputes.

Meanwhile, US-Iran nuclear talks continued with American envoy Witkoff contradicting himself on whether Iran must completely eliminate uranium enrichment.
Morning headlines focused on Defense Minister Katz's controversial announcement about restoring humanitarian aid to Gaza through civilian companies, which triggered immediate backlash from coalition partners and hostage families, forcing him to backtrack and clarify he meant "future plans." The elimination of the third terrorist involved in the Funduk attack that killed three Israelis was reported as "closing the circle" after a month-long pursuit.

By midday, Islamic Jihad released the first proof-of-life video of Rom Braslavski after 558 days in captivity, showing him in visible distress pleading "Please get me out of here" directly to Netanyahu. His brother stated "we can't recognize him," amplifying public pressure for a hostage deal.

Meanwhile, the security establishment crisis deepened as the Shin Bet agent accused of leaking classified documents was released to house arrest, while Netanyahu petitioned the Supreme Court to rule immediately on Bar's dismissal, claiming the situation endangers national security.
17.04.2025
Thursday

Day Trump Blocked Iran Strike

The New York Times revelation that Trump blocked an Israeli plan to strike Iran's nuclear facilities dominated media coverage. Reports detailed Israel's extensive preparation for a May operation that could have set back Iran's nuclear program "by a year or more," but Trump intervened to pursue diplomatic solutions instead. Netanyahu's office notably did not deny the report, stating only that "Israel will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons." By afternoon, Trump clarified he didn't "block" the strike but is "not in a rush" to attack Iran.

The Supreme Court rejected Netanyahu's request to lift the interim order preventing Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar's dismissal, ruling that testimony from both Netanyahu and Bar must be submitted first.

By evening, Hamas formally rejected Israel's proposal for a partial hostage deal, insisting on a comprehensive agreement including full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and permanent ceasefire.
Early morning began with a Houthi missile being fired toward Israel, triggering sirens in central Israel and Jerusalem following major US strikes on Yemen. The IDF used its new advance warning system before activating sirens, and the Arrow 3 successfully intercepted the missile.

Focus shifted to Iran nuclear concerns, as reports emerged about Mossad chief and Minister Dermer secretly flying to Paris to meet US envoy Witkoff ahead of tomorrow's US-Iran nuclear talks in Rome. This followed yesterday's revelations that Trump blocked Israel's planned strike against Iran's nuclear facilities. Israeli officials warned of a "closing window of opportunity" to strike Iran while Iranian representatives established red lines, stating they would never dismantle centrifuges.

Regarding hostages, Israeli sources insisted Hamas had not formally rejected the partial deal proposal, despite Hamas political bureau member Khalil al-Hayya publicly rejecting it yesterday. Netanyahu announced he would make a special statement after the holiday, causing distress among hostage families.
The second round of US-Iran nuclear talks in Rome dominated early headlines, with Iran blaming Israel as "the only obstacle" to an agreement. The four-hour session concluded with reports that a third round would follow within days, while discussions indicated Iran might maintain civilian nuclear capabilities.

By midday, Hamas released a third propaganda video of hostage Elkana Bohbot within a month, showing him simulating a phone call with family and pleading his American-citizen brother to "beg Trump" for his release. This followed Einav Tzangauker's accusation that Netanyahu "refuses to end the war and is burying hostages in tunnels."

By evening, IDF Staff Sergeant Major Galeb Sliman al-Nasasra became the first soldier killed since fighting resumed in Gaza, dying from an explosive device while evacuating wounded soldiers near Beit Hanoun. Netanyahu released a recorded statement rejecting Hamas' position, vowing to continue fighting while insisting it's "impossible to bring back all hostages" in one deal.
The IDF dismissed the deputy commander of the Golani reconnaissance unit following an investigation into the killing of 15 aid workers in Rafah. The investigation concluded workers were not executed but acknowledged errors and false reporting. This marked the military addressing criticism of civilian casualties.

Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar's planned affidavit to the Supreme Court triggered intense pressure from Netanyahu for Bar to resign voluntarily instead of submitting potentially damaging classified information. Opposition leader Lapid issued an unusual warning based on "intelligence information" that threats against Bar could lead to political assassination.

In Gaza, Staff Sergeant Major Galeb Sliman al-Nasasra became the first IDF casualty since Operation Swords and Steel began, while former hostage Elia Cohen returned to the site of his kidnapping. US-Iran nuclear talks continued in Rome, with Israeli officials expressing concern about limited military options if an agreement is reached.
The death of Pope Francis at 88 coincided with Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar submitting his explosive affidavit to the Supreme Court, creating a dramatic news cycle. Bar's 11-page document alleged Netanyahu demanded personal loyalty, instructed him to obey the Prime Minister over the Supreme Court in case of constitutional crisis, and requested surveillance of anti-government protesters. Netanyahu's office responded forcefully, calling the affidavit "full of lies" and claiming Bar failed to prevent the October 7 massacre by not alerting security officials.

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Smotrich sparked controversy by stating that "returning hostages is not the most important goal," prioritizing Hamas' destruction. This prompted harsh criticism from UTJ's Gafni, who compared him to historical extremists.

In other news, Harish Mayor Yitzhak Keshet was arrested for sexual offenses against female municipality employees, and search operations continued for a diver attacked by a shark in Hadera.
The courts sentenced two leaders of the Bnei Zion pre-military academy to seven years imprisonment for the 2018 Tzafit Creek disaster that killed ten students, closing a traumatic chapter exactly seven years after the tragedy. By midday, search teams recovered remains of a diver attacked by sharks in Hadera, after extensive coastal searches.

A new ceasefire proposal dominated diplomatic news, with mediators presenting a 5-7 year truce framework including complete IDF withdrawal from Gaza and a hostage exchange. Hamas reportedly signaled willingness to relinquish Gaza control. Trump and Netanyahu spoke by phone, conspicuously omitting any mention of hostages in their public statements affirming they're "on the same side of every issue."

The crisis between Netanyahu and Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar intensified, with the government requesting Bar announce his retirement date. Captured Hamas documents revealed Sinwar believed Israel was on the verge of collapse before October 7, tracking Israeli social divisions.
Overnight, Houthis fired a missile toward northern Israel, triggering sirens in Haifa for the first time - a significant range extension beyond their previous targets. The missile was successfully intercepted.

Morning brought a serious cabinet crisis as Finance Minister Smotrich threatened to collapse the government over humanitarian aid to Gaza, first attacking IDF Chief Zamir ("we can replace you") then shifting blame to Netanyahu as "the ultimate responsible party." Smotrich drew a clear "red line," saying he wouldn't participate in "providing aid that reaches Hamas."

By afternoon, massive wildfires erupted in central Israel near Jerusalem and the Shfela region, prompting a national mobilization of firefighters and evacuations of several communities as extreme heat and high winds fueled the flames.

As Holocaust Remembrance Day ceremonies began at Yad Vashem, President Herzog warned that "history will not forgive those who divide us from within." Meanwhile, Hamas released a new video of hostage Omri Miran, whose family condemned the timing on Holocaust Eve.
Holocaust Remembrance Day dominated Israeli media, with the March of the Living in Auschwitz becoming a powerful symbol connecting historical trauma with present suffering. Released hostages joined Holocaust survivors at the march, though the ceremony was partially cancelled due to severe weather. Former hostage Eli Sharabi delivered an emotional speech at Auschwitz, stating "the Jewish people sanctify life, not death" while calling for the return of all hostages.

By midday, Hamas released a distressing video of hostage Omri Miran pleading "only a deal will bring us home" while addressing Trump directly. The timing during Holocaust Remembrance Day appeared deliberate.

In legal developments, the ICC Appeals Chamber ordered a lower court to hear Israel's jurisdictional challenge in the Netanyahu arrest warrant case.

By evening, military news took center stage as a tank driver was killed by sniper fire in northern Gaza, with two other soldiers seriously wounded in the same incident.
The morning began with the identification of Staff Sergeant (res.) Asaf Kafri, 26, as the tank driver killed by sniper fire in northern Gaza yesterday. This marked the second fatal incident in Gaza's buffer zone this week.

By mid-morning, newspapers extensively covered the IDF's investigation into the October 7 attack on Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak, revealing critical failures in the military response. The local emergency squad fought alone against dozens of terrorists for seven hours, with IDF forces arriving only after the last militants had left.

Trump's statements about Iran dominated afternoon coverage, with his declaration that he wouldn't be "dragged into" a Netanyahu-initiated conflict with Iran, while expressing willingness to meet Iranian leader Khamenei.

By evening, intense fighting erupted in Gaza with a reservist seriously wounded by RPG fire near the Philadelphi Corridor as the IDF prepared to "significantly expand" operations in the Strip.
The day began with sirens in Beer Sheva as the IDF intercepted a Houthi missile launched from Yemen. Simultaneously, news broke of Syria's pledge to the US that it would not threaten Israel, committing to monitor Palestinian factions within its borders.

By mid-morning, a massive explosion rocked Iran's strategic Bandar Abbas port, with casualty reports escalating throughout the day from dozens to over 500 injured. Media reports connected the blast to mysterious Chinese chemical shipments possibly linked to ballistic missile fuel, noting its proximity to Revolutionary Guard facilities.

Meanwhile, ceasefire negotiations gained momentum as Hamas reportedly agreed to a five-year ceasefire in exchange for all remaining hostages, with Egypt presenting a "final agreement" framework.

By late afternoon, the IDF announced that two soldiers - Captain Ido Voloch and Staff Sergeant Neta Yitzhak Cahana - were killed during combat operations in Gaza's Shuja'iyya neighborhood, as military officials prepared to intensify operations.
Early morning air raid sirens in the Dead Sea area heralded a Houthi missile, promptly intercepted by Israeli defenses. Media extensively covered the IDF's investigation into the October 7 battle at Zikim training base, revealing how trainees "fought with bare hands" against Hamas attackers.

By afternoon, emergency services scrambled to evacuate approximately 100 hikers, including yeshiva students, trapped by a large fire in Nahal Prat.

The day was dominated by Netanyahu filing his Supreme Court affidavit regarding Shin Bet chief Bar's dismissal, calling Bar's claims "false" and accusing him of describing Sinwar as a "level-headed leader not ready for war." Bar responded forcefully, accusing Netanyahu of presenting "half-truths" and "never taking responsibility" for his "policy of funding Hamas."

In parallel, the IDF conducted a significant airstrike on a Hezbollah weapons warehouse in Beirut's Dahieh neighborhood, targeting "high-quality weapons" that posed an unusual threat.
The morning began with President Herzog suggesting a plea deal for Netanyahu while dismissing "deep state" claims. Trump predicted an Iran nuclear agreement that wouldn't require military action, while Israel rejected Hamas' proposal for a five-year Gaza ceasefire.

By midday, released hostages appealed directly to Trump, describing medieval torture and sexual assault in captivity, urging him to help free the remaining 59 captives. Military preparations for expanded Gaza operations and significant reserve mobilization were reported as the hostage negotiations stalled.

The evening brought two major developments: Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar announced his June 15 resignation, taking responsibility for October 7 failures while defending the agency's independence amid his dispute with Netanyahu. Shortly after, Egyptian sources reported a breakthrough in ceasefire negotiations, with agreement reached on several key points despite remaining disagreements on Hamas disarmament.
Israel's Memorial Day began with conflicting reports about ceasefire negotiations. While Egyptian sources claimed a "significant breakthrough," Israeli officials quickly dismissed these reports as inaccurate, maintaining that disagreements remain over Hamas disarmament.

By mid-morning, a report from the Hostages' Families Headquarters warned that remains of 35 deceased hostages might become permanently unidentifiable due to decay.

Controversy erupted when Netanyahu stated there are "up to 24 living hostages" during a meeting, while his wife Sara was caught on camera whispering "fewer," causing distress among hostage families.

The government officially canceled its dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar after he announced his resignation, apparently to avoid a potential landmark Supreme Court ruling on the matter.

As evening fell, the Memorial Day ceremony at the Western Wall featured President Herzog and IDF Chief Zamir calling for national unity amid the ongoing war and hostage crisis, with the memorial siren sounding nationwide.
Israel's Memorial Day ceremonies began with personal stories of fallen soldiers dominating coverage. Prime Minister Netanyahu addressed Mount Herzl attendees, stating "fighters are risking themselves to create conditions for returning hostages," while President Herzog called to "lower flames of internal conflict."

By midday, massive wildfires erupted in the Jerusalem Hills, quickly escalating to what officials called "possibly the largest fire in Israel's history." Dramatic footage showed motorists abandoning vehicles on Highway 1 as flames approached. At least 70 people were injured from smoke inhalation, and ten communities were evacuated affecting approximately 10,000 residents.

The disaster prompted cancellation of the Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony, with only a pre-recorded version aired. Police arrested three arson suspects as 163 firefighting teams battled nine fire zones overnight. Israel requested international assistance from European countries, expected to arrive tomorrow.
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