Israel Mourns Return of Hostages from Gaza as Military Intensifies Operations and IDF Chief Enhances U.S. Ties

Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed deep sorrow over the return of hostages from Hamas, as Israeli forces conducted a major counterterrorism operation in Samaria. Meanwhile, IDF Chief Herzi Halevi discussed strategic cooperation during a significant U.S. visit, strengthening military ties.
Female IDF hostage compared to Prophet Daniel for keeping Shabbat in Captivity

Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi, who founded the Chabad branch of Hasidic Judaism in the 18th century, taught that “a little light dispels a lot of darkness” would have been proud of Agam Berger, a 19-year-old IDF soldier taken captive by Hamas on Oct 7 who throughout her captivity refused to desecrate the Sabbath.
Gaza’s Destruction, Foreign-Funded Protests in Israel, and UN’s Pressure on Hamas

Gaza faces extensive destruction, with reconstruction estimated to take over a decade, while Israeli PM Netanyahu blames foreign funding for anti-government protests. Meanwhile, the UN urges Hamas to release hostages to prevent renewed conflict.
Trump outlines U.S. control of Gaza, life after Hamas captivity, and Iraq pressured on Israeli hostage release

President Donald Trump revealed plans for U.S. control of Gaza post-war, with Palestinians relocated to safer communities without requiring U.S. troops. Meanwhile, former Hamas captive Gadi Mozes returned home to help rebuild Kibbutz Nir Oz. Trump’s envoy also pressed Iraq to free Israeli academic Elizabeth Tsurkov, demanding swift action.
Gaza Tensions and Responses: Hostages kept in Tunnels, Trump’s relocation proposal, and Gazans’ Northern return

Following the ceasefire, the horrific details emerged about hostages enduring months in tunnels under dire conditions, and U.S. President Donald Trump proposed relocating Gazans. Meanwhile, Palestinians are slowly returning to northern Gaza, navigating the delicate terms of peace and resettlement.
No Hostage Deal or Arms embargo against Israel, Video of hostage released

Families of hostages are pushing for stronger advocacy from both governments and Jewish organizations. Meanwhile, Palestinian Islamic Jihad recently released a video of Russian-Israeli hostage Alexander Troufanov, highlighting the urgent humanitarian needs of hostages held in Gaza since October 2023. Also, the U.S. affirmed its continued arms support for Israel,
Spewing anti-Bibi vitriol while bidding Biden farewell

The latest pretext of “Netanyahu Derangement Syndrome” sufferers to blame the Israeli prime minister for, well, everything.
Jerusalem will not commit to ending war until hostages released

Hamas has broken past deals too many times to be trusted, said a senior Israeli official.
Behind the Headlines: The Real Story of Rafah

In the June 2nd segment of Eyes on Israel, Rabbi Pesach Wolicki tackled the contentious issue of a reported Israeli airstrike in Rafah, Gaza, and its portrayal in the media.
Pope Francis calls for return of hostages; Vatican offers to mediate

The Vatican described the Hamas attack as “inhuman” while at the same time preemptively warning Israel to not harm civilians.