WATCH: Overnight Israel - Gaza Strikes, Houthi Missile, and Qatar Scandal 

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.

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.

Qatar Cash Investigation Deepens

New developments emerged in a financial scandal linking Qatar to aides of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to Ynet, police released a key suspect after questioning late Wednesday night, identifying him as a central figure in the ongoing probe. A gag order continues to restrict most details, leaving the full scope of the investigation unclear. Authorities have promised further updates as the case progresses.

Negev Police Seize 16th Smuggled Monkey

Heavy rain in Israel coincided with an unusual police operation in the Negev on Wednesday night. Officers captured a monkey near the Bedouin village of Bir Hadaj, marking the 16th animal seized in a smuggling ring targeting exotic wildlife.The monkey is receiving medical treatment, joining others—plus four lion cubs—rescued recently, often in poor health, with one prior death from tetanus. The trend highlights a growing illegal trade in the region.

IDF Intensifies Gaza Operations Amid Hostage Protests

Israeli forces escalated military operations in Gaza overnight, focusing on the Netzarim Corridor to expand a buffer zone and target Hamas positions. The IDF reported striking multiple sites, while Hamas claimed 71 fatalities from the night’s bombardment, part of 540 since Tuesday, though these figures remain unverified.Israel maintains the targets were militants using civilians as shields, with leaflets dropped overnight warning Gazans of consequences—referencing a potential Trump plan—unless cooperation increases. Hostage families, angered by a postponed Gaza meeting, protested as Netanyahu scheduled a 9:30 p.m. vote to dismiss Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, defying the attorney general.

Australian Opposition Leader Signals Strong Israel Support

Peter Dutton, Australia’s opposition leader, made a significant pledge regarding Israel on Wednesday. He stated that, if elected in May, strengthening ties with Netanyahu’s government would be among his first priorities. Details of the proposed partnership remain vague, but the announcement underscores potential shifts in Australia’s foreign policy. Observers await further clarification as the election nears.

Houthi Missile Triggers Widespread Alerts in Israel

A missile launched from Yemen at 4 a.m. prompted air raid sirens across central Israel, disrupting sleep for thousands. The Israeli military intercepted the projectile before it entered Israeli airspace, though widespread alerts were activated due to uncertainty over its trajectory and shrapnel fallout.The Houthis, an Iran-backed group, claimed responsibility, signaling a possible escalation tied to Gaza tensions. The incident adds pressure to ongoing security discussions between Netanyahu and Bar.

Final Thoughts from Jerusalem

Israel faces mounting challenges with intensified Gaza operations, a looming Yemen threat, and internal political friction over Bar’s fate. The nation remains on edge as these issues unfold, with hopes for resolution growing urgent. Updates will continue as events develop, offering a clear view of Israel’s evolving situation. More coverage is expected tomorrow.

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!