HEADLINES
Israel destroys 250 Iran drones and launchers
Iran escalates long war hits oil tankers
Israel ready for Lebanon strike over Hezbollah

The time is now 9:02 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

In Operation Lion's Roar, the Israeli Air Force has broadened its strikes against Iran’s unmanned aircraft program, hitting more than 250 drones, launchers, and dozens of launch sites. In one wave, the air force identified personnel arming drones for immediate launch toward Israel and, after swiftly closing the loop, struck the launcher and those soldiers to disrupt the attack plan. The IDF says it remains relentless in destroying UAV- and missile-system infrastructure and personnel in western Iran to limit the scale of possible threats against Israeli territory.

In Direct Israel-Iran Clashes, sirens will be heard in the Gush Dan region and in Jerusalem following Iranian fire.

In Iranian Retaliation, Iran appears to be adopting a long-war strategy, broadening attacks across the Middle East and turning to strikes on oil tankers and energy facilities to pressure the United States and Israel. Gulf states have not joined the war but have taken their concerns to the UN, seeking condemnation of Tehran. Tehran apparently believes it can wear down its opponents in a protracted conflict, even after early losses including the reported loss of its supreme leader and its navy, with some observers drawing comparisons to other extended wars. Separately, isolated reports describe severe logistical strains at the front, with units facing shortages of ammunition, water, and basic supplies, including accounts that some units received as few as 20 rounds for two soldiers.

In Regional Impacts, a Tel Aviv man, 37, was arrested on suspicion of breaking into and stealing from an apartment damaged in an Iranian missile strike; investigators say he may have been involved in a prior robbery at the Shalvata club before Operation Roaring Lion began. Police recovered jewelry and a box of coffee capsules bearing the owner’s name among his belongings. Authorities also note other incidents linked to the broader conflict, including arrests connected to online incitement to terrorism and a separate case involving fireworks aimed at a police vehicle. Separately, a United Nations expert warned that Myanmar’s rights and humanitarian crisis could worsen as global attention remains fixed on the Middle East war and aid continues to dwindle, while reports from Beirut describe the city as increasingly resembling Gaza, with continued regional tension and updated morning briefings.

In the Conflict with Iran and its Regional Proxies, Israel’s defense leadership is described as confident in its ability to counter Hezbollah and pressure Iran. Boaz Bismuth, chair of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, told The Jerusalem Post that Israel has the intelligence capabilities to end the Hezbollah threat and create conditions conducive to regime change in Iran, asserting that Israel remains far stronger and determined to succeed against both Hezbollah and Iran simultaneously. In a related warning to Tehran, Defense Minister Katz signaled that Israel is prepared to expand operations in Lebanon and, if Beirut does not halt Hezbollah attacks on northern Israel, could seize territory to restore security.

In US Policy Concerning Israel, commentary suggests President Trump has maintained a hard line on Iran, but there are signs of concern about what lies ahead, with US intelligence reportedly offering a different assessment of Iran’s trajectory. The piece notes tensions along the northern front and cites ongoing discussions about how Washington balances its approach, including references to regional dynamics involving Jerusalem and humanitarian considerations affecting border towns such as Metulla.

Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.
I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.
Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. Find the code and more details in the podcast description.

SOURCES
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1295463
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1295478
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-889737
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1295474
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1295471
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/crime-in-israel/article-889743
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/03/mideast-war-risks-dramatically-deepening-myanmar-crisis-un-expert
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/72272
https://t.me/beholdisraelchannel/72271
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-889747
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/skmljqlqwe
https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/article-1295479

Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2026-03-12 at 09:02