WATCH: Overnight Israel - IDF strikes Gaza, West Bank tensions, and mass protests shake Jerusalem

Welcome to Overnight Israel, the news show designed for Americans who want the real, unfiltered updates from the ground in Israel—while they were sleeping. From escalating military operations in Gaza and tensions in the West Bank to political upheaval and international reactions, here’s everything you need to know to start your day informed.

Good Morning from Overnight Israel

As Americans wake up, the news cycle in Israel has already been in full swing. Overnight Israel is here to give you the latest updates, breaking down the biggest stories from Jerusalem, Gaza, and beyond. Whether it's military operations, political shakeups, or global reactions, we bring you the JUICE—just the essential facts, no fluff.

IDF Strikes Hamas and Islamic Jihad Targets in Gaza

For the second consecutive night, the Israeli Air Force and Navy carried out intense strikes across Gaza. The IDF confirmed that 20 Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) positions were hit, including a military site in northern Gaza preparing rocket launches against Israel. At sea, the Israeli Navy targeted and destroyed multiple suspected "terror vessels."

Hamas claims that 13 people were killed, though these numbers remain unverified. The strikes come in response to Hamas rejecting a U.S.-brokered ceasefire extension. With negotiations failing, Israel has vowed to dismantle both Hamas' military and political infrastructure.

West Bank on High Alert Following Suspected Infiltration

Overnight, a security alert was issued in Kiryat Netafim, a Jewish settlement in northern Judea and Samaria (West Bank). A siren blared, warning of a possible terrorist infiltration. IDF forces immediately launched a search operation, and residents were ordered to remain locked in their homes.

While details are still emerging, this incident underscores the fragile security situation in the West Bank, where tensions have been rising in parallel with the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Thousands Flood Jerusalem in Anti-Government Protests

Anger is boiling over in Israel’s capital. Last night, thousands of protesters blocked the main entrance to Jerusalem, demanding answers from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over his handling of the Gaza war, security policy, and the possible dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar.

Protest leader Shikma Bressler addressed the crowd, declaring, “It’s time to end this madness before we don’t have a country left.” The protests in Jerusalem follow a 40,000-strong rally in Tel Aviv, where demonstrators called for an immediate change in government leadership and a new ceasefire strategy.

Meanwhile, police detained longtime anti-government activist Amir Haskel outside Netanyahu’s residence as he shouted through a megaphone, accusing the prime minister of "murdering the ceasefire and any chance to save the hostages."

Lapid Calls for Nationwide Protests, Blasts Netanyahu’s Judicial Reforms

Opposition leader Yair Lapid has issued a direct appeal to Israelis: take to the streets and demand change.

In a video message, Lapid declared, “The only solution is for the entire nation to rise up and say ‘Enough!’” His priorities include:

Lapid also vowed that, if elected, he would immediately repeal the controversial judicial reform law, which critics say allows Netanyahu’s government to control the selection of judges.

Bombshell Qatar Scandal: Netanyahu’s Aide Accused of Receiving Foreign Money

A political scandal is brewing: businessman Gil Birger revealed in a bombshell radio interview that he transferred Qatar-linked funds to Eli Feldstein, a former top aide to Netanyahu who was previously indicted for leaking classified documents.

The money allegedly came from Jay Footlik, a U.S.-based lobbyist working for Qatar, raising questions about the Israeli government’s indirect financial ties to the Gulf state. Birger insists the transfers were related to "tax reasons" and hostage negotiations, denying any wrongdoing.

Feldstein’s legal team fired back, claiming the scandal proves nothing, as he “never worked for Qatar and only served the prime minister.” This controversy—dubbed "Qatargate"—remains under a strict gag order, fueling speculation over what the Israeli public isn’t being told.

Europe Condemns Israel’s Gaza Strikes, Pressures Netanyahu

The European Union and Germany are ramping up criticism against Israel’s military operations in Gaza.

Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock condemned the renewed strikes, calling them "shattering to any hope for peace." Meanwhile, the EU told Israeli minister Gideon Sa’ar that the civilian death toll is "unacceptable."

In response, Sa’ar defended Israel’s actions, stating: "After Hamas rejected ceasefire proposals, Israel has no choice but to act." With Lebanon’s border remaining tense, European leaders warn of a “serious risk” of full-scale regional escalation.

Reservist Rebellion: IDF Sacks Second Officer for Refusing Duty

Tensions within the Israeli military are growing. The IDF has dismissed a second officer, Michael Majer, after he publicly announced his refusal to serve in Gaza, calling Israeli leaders “filthy traitors.”

His firing follows the dismissal of an Air Force navigator just a day earlier for similar statements. While a small but vocal minority of soldiers are resisting orders, their defiance echoes past reservist protests against Netanyahu’s government—adding another layer to Israel’s internal divide.

59 Hostages Remain in Gaza: A Nation United in Hope

Despite Israel’s deep political divisions, one issue unites the entire country—the safe return of the 59 hostages still held by Hamas.

From the political right to the left, from religious communities to secular Israelis, everyone is waiting for the day these men, women, and children come home.

Final Thoughts from Overnight Israel

As Israel continues to navigate military operations, political turmoil, and international pressure, one thing remains clear: every new day brings more uncertainty.

With Netanyahu facing pressure on all fronts, with war raging in Gaza, and with the fate of the hostages still unknown, Israel’s future remains as unpredictable as ever.

Stay with us on Overnight Israel for the most up-to-date and unfiltered coverage of what’s happening on the ground.

See you tomorrow!