Friday, August 21
Seven stories that matter in Israel right now, each one compared across the newsrooms that covered it.
From political shakeups in Jerusalem to high-stakes diplomacy in Washington and a resolved missing-persons mystery abroad, here's what's making headlines today.
- 1Defense Minister Katz Fires Central Command Chief Amid Right-Wing Backlash
Defense Minister Katz fired Central Command Chief Avi Blot following right-wing backlash over an administrative detainee's arrest, deepening tensions between political and military leadership.
- 2Netanyahu and Jared Kushner Clash Over Peace Council Plan for Gaza
Netanyahu and Jared Kushner reportedly clashed over the Peace Council's 15-point Gaza plan, with Netanyahu rejecting key elements amid ongoing disagreements over the territory's future.
- 3Israeli Parliament Approves Basic Law on Torah Study Amid Fierce Political Backlash
The Knesset passed a contentious Basic Law on Torah Study protecting yeshiva students from military service, triggering fierce political backlash over equality of service.
- 4US Treasury Aims to Topple Iran's Regime with Historic Sanctions
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed Washington's newest sanctions package aims squarely at toppling Iran's regime, marking the toughest economic pressure campaign yet.
- 5US Military Conducts New Airstrikes on Iranian Targets Near Strait of Hormuz
US forces conducted a fresh wave of airstrikes on Iranian military and coastal targets near the Strait of Hormuz, escalating efforts to curb Tehran's threat to shipping.
- 6Israeli Mother and Daughter Found in Argentina After Planned Disappearance Amid Financial Troubles
Israeli mother and daughter Mally and Lial Yahalomi, who vanished from Vienna amid financial troubles, were located safe in Buenos Aires after a week-long international search.
- 7Golani Commander David Hazut Killed in South Lebanon Clash with Hezbollah
Golani Brigade commander Capt. David Hazut, 21, was killed in a clash with Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, as his family and community mourn another young officer lost in the ongoing conflict.