Israel News for 9-22-2025
News Update
Hamas has reportedly drafted a letter to President Trump offering a 60-day pause in fighting in exchange for the release of half the hostages held in Gaza. Trump has repeatedly stated that he wants all of the hostages released immediately, at one time.
Yesterday, the UK, Canada and Australia formally recognized a Palestinian state. France is meant to do the same today. French President Macron stated that France will not open an embassy in Ramallah until all of the hostages are released. These countries, who join 142 others who already recognize a Palestinian state, claim that they are against Hamas and believe that their recognition does not reward terror. [Confusing, isn’t it??] The recognitions won’t have any practical effect, other than probably strengthening Israel’s resolve, making Palestinian lives more difficult, and possibly pushing Israel to annex areas of Judea and Samaria. In Italy, trade unions declared a 24-hour general strike in solidarity with the Palestinians, triggering major disruptions in transportation and daily life, and demonstrations were held in 75 cities nationwide.
A U.S. State Department spokesman responded to the recognitions saying, “Our focus remains on serious diplomacy, not performative gestures. Our priorities are clear: the release of the hostages, the security of Israel, and peace and prosperity for the entire region that is only possible free from Hamas.” Prime Minister Netanyahu said that Israel’s response would wait until after he returns from a visit to the U.S. this week, where he will meet with President Trump and speak at the UN General Assembly. He said, “It’s not going to happen. There will be no Palestinian state to the west of the Jordan River.” He added that the recognitions were rewarding terror.
Syrian President Al-Shaarah met with members of the Syrian Jewish community in New York City, where he is attending the U.N. General Assembly. Syria and Israel are reportedly very close to reaching a security agreement.
The IDF said it killed the deputy commander of Hamas’ naval police, Iyad Abu Yusuf, in a precision strike in central Gaza, as heavy fighting continues across the Strip. Yusuf took part in the October 7 Hamas assault, planned ambushes against IDF forces and oversaw the protection of Hamas assets in Gaza.
Tonight begins Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year and day of judgement. The holiday will last until Wednesday night. May we all be inscribed in the book of life, health, happiness, success and peace.
Shana Tova!
