Israel News for 3-13-2025
News Update
The Israeli Air Force struck a Palestinian Islamic Jihad headquarters in Damascus today, targeting senior members of the terror group who were allegedly planning attacks against Israeli forces along the northern border. Arab sources said that the strike killed a senior Palestinian official. Syrian media reported eight casualties but did not provide further details. Heavy damage was reported.
A terrorist opened fire on his car near the Shova’el agricultural farm, located near the city of Ariel in Samaria, injuring an 18 year old boy in the hand. The IDF is hunting for the terrorist.
Security forces seized one of the largest weapons caches found in the West Bank in recent years, in the village of of Al-Ram near Ramallah. The raid uncovered M-16 rifles, a Glock pistol, a Ringo firearm, a 7.62mm sniper rifle, a hand grenade, explosives, a remote detonation device, thousands of rounds of ammunition, cash and gold jewelry. The origin of the weapons seized and how they arrived remains under investigation by the Shin Bet and police. The IDF’s Central Command is focusing its efforts on seizing illegal arms, particularly by targeting weapons dealers, who often supply both criminals and terrorists.
Israeli police and the Shin Bet have arrested Kamel Nashaf, a 21-year-old from Tayibe, suspected of pledging allegiance to ISIS and collaborating with terrorists. According to the investigation, Nashaf filmed security forces en route to Tulkarm and shared the footage via Telegram to help terrorists prepare for their arrival.
Hostage negotiations continue in Doha, with American and Israeli officials expressing cautious optimism yesterday. Several Arab foreign ministers will reportedly meet with US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff in Qatar to discuss the Gaza reconstruction issue.
A report released by the UN Human Rights Council accused Israel of genocide and sexual crimes against the Palestinians in Gaza. Prime Minister Netanyahu condemned the report, calling it “an anti-Israel circus” and saying, “the so-called UN Human Rights Council has long been exposed as an antisemitic, corrupt, and pro-terror body that has no legitimacy.”
Purim is tonight and tomorrow. The holiday celebrates the deliverance of the Jewish People in the Persian Empire from the annihilation planned by Haman, the prime minister of the kingdom. The salvation is spearheaded by Queen Esther and her cousin Mordecai, the leader of the Jews. While we might not be facing annihilation today, we certainly are in great need for Divine deliverance. So let us pray for the release of all of the hostages and a swift and decisive victory over Hamas, so that both Israelis and Palestinians can live their lives in peace and security. Happy Purim!
