WATCH: Overnight Israel - Gaza exit plan, more missiles, and will Israel's AG be axed?

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.

Gaza Exit Plan Advances Amid Yemen Strikes

Israel’s security cabinet approved a bold initiative late last night from Defense Minister Israel Katz to establish a new Defense Ministry directorate facilitating “voluntary” Palestinian emigration from Gaza to third countries. The plan, involving safe passage by land, sea, or air through monitored crossings, aligns with a vision attributed to U.S. President Donald Trump. Katz aims to appoint a director swiftly, though Egypt has rejected involvement, and destination countries remain undisclosed. The move comes as 59 hostages linger in Gaza, intensifying Israel’s push for resolution. Simultaneously, Yemen’s Houthis fired a ballistic missile at central Israel at 7:30 a.m., intercepted by the IDF outside Israeli airspace. Two motorcyclists sustained minor injuries amid the resulting chaos. Israeli airstrikes retaliated against Houthi targets in Yemen, with U.S. warships bolstering regional support, highlighting the Houthis’ status as Iran’s last standing proxy.

IDF Escalates Gaza Operations as Hostage Talks Falter

Israeli forces launched a fresh offensive in Beit Hanoun, northern Gaza, targeting Hamas with airstrikes and tanks to expand a border buffer zone, urging civilians to evacuate. In Khan Younis, an airstrike killed Hamas political figure Salah al-Bardawil and his wife, with Hamas reporting 19 deaths overnight—part of ongoing operations. Speculation suggests Israel may seize Gaza land to leverage the release of 59 hostages, aligning with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s dual goals of eliminating Hamas and securing their return. Plans for an international airport in Nevatim, near a southern airbase, also surfaced, potentially transforming the Negev despite air force objections.

Attorney General Firing Debate Ignites Protests

A contentious cabinet debate unfolded today over a “no-confidence” motion targeting Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, a precursor to her potential dismissal. Critics accuse her of obstructing government action, while she countered in an 11:30 a.m. letter, alleging an unchecked power grab to undermine judicial oversight during wartime. She defended her record—supporting hundreds of laws and over 2,000 petitions—calling the move legally baseless. Protests, now in their sixth day, erupted outside, led by ex-Shin Bet chief Ami Ayalon, with police deploying “skunk spray” as hostage families vent frustration over delayed Gaza talks.

Israeli Sports Triumph Amid Conflict

Israel’s soccer team kicked off 2026 World Cup qualifiers with a 2-1 victory over Estonia in Hungary last night, with Eli Dasa clinching the win. Next up: Norway on Tuesday. In the NBA, Israeli forward Dani Avadia dazzled, scoring a season-high 36 points, leading the Portland Trail Blazers to a 128-109 rout of the Denver Nuggets, amassing 162 points over six games. These successes offer a bright spot amid ongoing strife.

Soldier Rehabilitation Numbers Surge

The Defense Ministry reported treating 16,000 soldiers since October 7, 2023, for physical and mental injuries, with half battling PTSD and 72 amputees among them. Two-thirds are reservists, and the total wounded veteran count stands at 78,000, projected to hit 100,000 by 2030. Millions in donations have poured in to support the effort, underscoring the war’s toll.

Seal Corpse Sparks Coastal Curiosity

A seal carcass washed ashore at Ma’agan Michael beach, prompting DNA tests to determine if it’s Julia, a rare monk seal spotted in Jaffa years ago. With only 600-700 of her species left globally, the find marks a somber note for conservationists.

Final Thoughts from Jerusalem

Israel navigates a complex landscape of military escalation, political infighting, and unexpected quirks like smuggled wildlife. With hostages, regional threats, and internal divisions in focus, the nation braces for what’s next. Updates will follow as developments unfold, offering clarity on Israel’s evolving challenges. 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!