Sunday, July 19
Seven stories that matter in Israel right now, each one compared across the newsrooms that covered it.
Today in brief, the Bank of Israel cut interest rates and forecasted more reductions, while the Israeli Knesset passed a controversial law on Torah study. In other news, the US military conducted new airstrikes on Iranian targets.
- 1Bank of Israel Lowers Interest Rate, Predicts Two More Cuts by Mid-2024
Bank of Israel Governor Amir Yaron cut interest rates to 3.5% and predicted two more cuts by mid-2024, citing easing inflation and currency strength.
- 2Israeli Parliament Passes Basic Law on Torah Study Amid Opposition and Reservists' Outcry
The Israeli Knesset passed the Basic Law on Torah Study, allowing continued military exemptions for ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students, sparking strong opposition.
- 3US Military Conducts New Airstrikes on Iranian Targets Near Strait of Hormuz
The US military launched new airstrikes on Iranian military and coastal targets near the Strait of Hormuz to reduce threats to commercial shipping.
- 4Jerusalem Court Judges Recommend Dropping Bribery Charge Against Netanyahu in Case 4000
Jerusalem District Court judges reiterated their recommendation to drop the bribery charge against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Case 4000.
- 5Golani Commander David Hazut Killed in South Lebanon Clash with Hezbollah
Captain David Hazut, a 21-year-old Golani Brigade commander, was killed in a clash with Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
- 6Israel Pushes to Block US F-35 Sale to Turkey Citing Regional Security Concerns
Israel is lobbying the US Congress to block the sale of F-35 jets to Turkey, citing security laws and regional risks, with Prime Minister Netanyahu warning against the sale.
- 7Mossad Supports Lifetime Security for Netanyahu and Family Following Shin Bet Recommendation
Following Shin Bet's recommendation, Mossad also supports lifetime security for Prime Minister Netanyahu and his family, with official approval granting five years.