Overnight Israel: Shin Bet scandal, US-Iran talks and chemical weapons in Syria

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 Judea and Samaria 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.

Shin Bet Officer Admits to Arresting Suspects Without Evidence

A recording released today revealed a senior Shin Bet officer, identified only as ‘Aleph,’ from the Jewish Division admitting to detaining right-wing activists in Judea and Samaria without evidence. The tape captured Aleph dismissing concerns about providing detainees with basic accommodations, stating that prolonged detention was preferable. This practice, typically used for Palestinian terror suspects under administrative detention, has now extended to Israelis, sparking significant controversy. The Prime Minister’s Office labeled it a “threat to democracy” and called for a thorough investigation. Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir demanded the officer’s dismissal and prosecution, with Smotrich advocating for the division’s dismantlement. Aleph also criticized IDF operations in Judea and Samaria, further escalating tensions.

UK MPs Denied Entry to Israel Over Anti-Israel Intent

Two UK Labour MPs, Abtisam Mohamed and Yuan Yang, were barred from entering Israel today after authorities determined their visit aimed to document Israeli security forces and spread critical rhetoric against the state. The British Foreign Secretary called the treatment of the MPs “unacceptable,” but Israel stood firm on its decision. The MPs’ stated purpose raised security concerns, leading to their exclusion at the border.

Chemical Weapons Persist in Syria, OPCW Reports

The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons reported today that over 100 chemical weapons sites remain active in Syria, despite years of international efforts to dismantle them. Following Assad’s 2013 chemical attack that killed over 1,400 people, he surrendered 1,300 tons of chemical weapons under the Chemical Weapons Convention, yet chlorine bomb incidents continued. Israel has conducted airstrikes on suspected sites to prevent their transfer to groups like HTS, amid ongoing UN inaction.

Iran Signals Openness to Indirect US Talks

Iran’s Foreign Minister announced today that the country is open to indirect negotiations with the United States regarding its nuclear program, which remains under development. The U.S. has intensified military and political pressure, amassing forces in the Middle East to block Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Iran also warned Iraq, Kuwait, UAE, Qatar, Turkey, and Bahrain that any support for a U.S. attack, including use of airspace or territory, would be considered hostile and met with consequences.

Separately, a woman from Jenin was detained for smuggling 52 vials of a neurotoxin, suspected to be of Iranian origin, with her intentions still under investigation.

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!