WATCH: Overnight Israel -IDF in trouble, more monkey mystery and Knesset's controversial judicial law  

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.

IDF Worried as Reservists Say “No More”

The IDF is sounding the alarm over its reservists, the backbone of Israel’s military response in times of crisis. Tens of thousands are refusing to continue serving, citing exhaustion after hundreds of days on duty over the past year. Anger at the government runs deep—many accuse leaders of failing to secure the release of 59 hostages still held in Gaza. Others oppose a draft exemption for ultra-Orthodox communities, while the judicial overhaul has further fueled discontent. Alon Gur, a combat navigator with 16 years in the Air Force, quit last week, declaring online, “The line was crossed,” and accusing the government of prioritizing politics over people. His exit has inspired others, with call-up rates dropping from over 100% at the war’s start to a worrying decline, though the IDF insists it remains operational.

Monkey Tied to Dumpster Rescued in East Jerusalem

Border Police in East Jerusalem’s Silwan neighborhood discovered a monkey chained to a dumpster last night. The injured animal was rescued, marking the 21st such find in a string of cases tied to a wildlife smuggling ring operating across Israel, primarily in the Negev. The Nature and Parks Authority has taken custody, but questions linger about how the monkey ended up in such a predicament. Authorities are investigating further connections to the illicit trade.

Knesset Passes Law to Control Judges, Opposition Freaks Out

A heated battle erupted in Jerusalem as the Knesset passed a law yesterday, shifting judicial appointments toward political control. The new measure grants the coalition and opposition one lawyer pick each, with politicians gaining veto power over judge selections—a stark change from the previous system involving legal professionals. Critics, including the Movement for Quality Government, the Association for Civil Rights, and Yesh Atid, rushed to the High Court, labeling it “unconstitutional” and a threat to democracy. The opposition, which boycotted the final vote after filing 71,000 objections, vowed to repeal it if they regain power, decrying the timing amid the ongoing hostage crisis in Gaza.

Hamas Says Gaza Protests Are Anti-Israel, Not Anti-Them

In Gaza, Hamas addressed public protests against the group and the war for the first time on March 26, 2025. Senior official Basem Naim, appearing on Qatari TV, claimed the demonstrations target Israel, not Hamas, insisting residents are simply war-weary. This follows an IDF strike in Jabalia that killed Hamas’s spokesman the previous night. Skeptics question the protests’ authenticity, noting Hamas’s tight grip rarely allows dissent, suggesting they may be staged for cameras as the group struggles to maintain control.

Northern Mayor and Deputy Detained in Fraud Probe

Israeli police arrested a mayor and his deputy in northern Israel overnight on March 26, 2025, on suspicion of electoral fraud and bribery. Their identities are withheld pending interrogations scheduled for later today. Details remain scarce, but the case could ripple through local governance.

World Update: Ukraine Drone Defense and Trump on Houthis

Globally, Ukraine’s air force reported repelling 86 Russian drones and a missile overnight on March 26, 2025, downing 42 and disrupting 26 with electronic defenses. In the U.S., President Trump claimed Yemen’s Houthis are “begging for peace” after American airstrikes, saying, “They’re getting the hell knocked out of them,” and hinting at talks. He also addressed a messaging app scandal involving his team, standing firm on his administration’s course.

Final Thoughts from Jerusalem

Israel faces mounting pressures—reservists are worn thin, judicial reforms ignite fury, and Hamas spins narratives in Gaza. With 59 hostages still captive, the nation grapples with internal strife and external threats, all while a monkey smuggling tale adds an odd twist to the night’s news.

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!