HEADLINES
Sixth Arrest Foils Halloween ISIS Plot Michigan
UN Lifts Sanctions on Assad Ally
Trump Says Iran Asked to Lift Sanctions

The time is now 11:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At 11:00 PM, this hour’s national and international update covers security developments in the United States, Europe, and the Middle East, highlighting ongoing tensions and policy shifts that shape the region’s outlook.

In Michigan, a sixth suspect has been arrested in the foiled ISIS-inspired plot uncovered by federal investigators. FBI officials confirmed the arrest as part of a broader clampdown linked to planned attacks around Halloween. Authorities have described the investigation as continuing to reveal connections among those involved, underscoring the persistent threat posed by homegrown extremism and the sustained effort by law enforcement to disrupt it before any harm occurs.

Across Europe, security remained tight as Maccabi Tel Aviv’s Europa League match against Aston Villa in Birmingham proceeded with prohibitions on visiting fans. Police deployed a substantial security presence, including mounted officers and riot gear, after earlier warnings of potential protests tied to the match. More than 200 protesters gathered near the stadium, with demonstrations both supporting and opposing Israel and related issues, and six arrests were recorded on the day, including for noncompliance with dispersal orders and public order offenses. The episode reflects the ongoing sensitivity surrounding international sports events in mixed communities and the measures authorities take to keep fans, players, and bystanders safe while upholding UEFA and local protocols.

In New York and New York-adjacent diplomacy, the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution lifting sanctions on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s close ally, Ahmed al-Sharaa, ahead of a White House meeting with the US president. The text also lifted sanctions on the Syrian interior minister, Anas Khattab, and eased an assets freeze and arms embargo. The vote was 14 in favor, with China abstaining. While the move is described by Washington as a symbolic step designed to facilitate dialogue, it comes amid broader questions about how to balance humanitarian concerns with security imperatives in Syria, where Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and other groups have shaped the battlefield and politics on the ground. Syrian officials welcomed the decision as supportive of rebuilding and stability, while critics warned against signaling weakness at a time of regional volatility.

In the West Bank, Israeli Defense Forces leadership signaled a pause on planned reductions in force posture there after Shin Bet raised alarms about the threat environment. Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir halted the contemplated drawdown following warnings that more than 1,200 attacks had been foiled this year. Minister Orit Strook said the plan conflicted with cabinet decisions, highlighting the political and security pressures surrounding Israeli security operations in areas adjacent to Israeli settlements and Palestinian territories.

In Washington, President Donald Trump said Iran has been asking whether US sanctions could be lifted. He indicated openness to considering such a move, though he did not commit to immediate changes. The White House and Iranian mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The remarks come amid a broader pattern of shifting US policy toward Iran, including past assertions of strong pressure while also signaling a potential appetite for negotiations on certain sanctions, contingent on Tehran’s actions. Separately, remarks from Iran’s leadership have underscored deep-seated mistrust of Washington’s long-term intentions, noting that cooperation is unlikely as long as US backing of Israel and regional influence persists.

Taken together, these updates illustrate a global security landscape characterized by persistent threats from extremism and regional instability, the ongoing friction over Israel and Palestinian issues, and the evolving calculus of US policy toward Iran and Syria. Authorities emphasize vigilance and the readiness to adapt security measures as events unfold, while policymakers weigh sanctions, diplomacy, and defense postures in an interconnected arena where developments in one arena can influence others. This hour’s report aims to provide clear, factual context to help audiences understand the significance of these actions and the potential implications for regional stability and international relations.

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.jpost.com/international/islamic-terrorism/article-873065
https://www.timesofisrael.com/maccabi-tlv-drops-europa-league-soccer-match-its-fans-were-barred-from-attending-in-uk/
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-873064
https://t.me/newssil/178747
https://www.timesofisrael.com/un-security-council-scraps-sanctions-on-syrian-president-ahead-of-white-house-visit/
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2025/11/trump-says-iran-has-been-asking-if-us-sanctions-can-be-lifted
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/syxpycqkwx