🚭 Tobacco smuggling attempt into Gaza intercepted through Kerem Shalom aid shipment: The Defense Ministry reported that Israeli authorities intercepted an attempt to smuggle hundreds of kilograms of tobacco into Gaza, concealed inside cans of vine leaves within a food shipment entering through the Kerem Shalom crossing under a private-sector aid mechanism. Crossing Points Authority and Gaza CLA inspectors uncovered the hidden tobacco during a routine inspection.
The truck was carrying food purchased by an Israeli company authorized to import civilian goods into Gaza. The vehicle and all cargo were confiscated and transferred to customs and enforcement authorities.
Following the incident, COGAT chief Maj. Gen. Yoram Halevy ordered the immediate suspension of the company’s permit to bring goods into Gaza. COGAT said the move reflects the severity of the case and is intended to preserve the integrity of the aid entry system and prevent its exploitation for smuggling.
Israel has prohibited cigarettes and tobacco from entering Gaza during the war, stating such products are sold at high prices on the black market and heavily taxed by Hamas. The case highlights ongoing attempts to misuse humanitarian supply channels for illicit revenue.
🎯 IDF eliminated Hezbollah operative involved in rehabilitating terror infrastructure in southern Lebanon: Earlier yesterday, the IDF struck and eliminated a terrorist who operated to rehabilitate Hezbollah terrorist infrastructure in the area of Tallouseh in southern Lebanon. The operative served as a local Hezbollah representative and was responsible for coordinating between the organization and civilians on military and financial matters, and for seizing private assets for terrorist purposes.
The IDF said the activity violated the understandings between Israel and Lebanon. Over the past week, troops have eliminated four terrorists who operated to rehabilitate Hezbollah terrorist infrastructure.
🚇 Netanyahu: 150 km of Gaza tunnels destroyed; work still required for years: Prime Minister Netanyahu said Israel has destroyed 150 kilometers of tunnels in Gaza out of an estimated 500 kilometers. The destruction of tunnels within Israeli territory is far from complete and will require years of work unless methods change.
🕍 Haredi leaders condemn Bnei Brak riots; police report arrests and injuries: Lithuanian ultra-Orthodox leaders Rabbi Dov Landau and Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch issued a joint letter against the demonstrations: “It is absolutely forbidden to participate or be among those who go to places where there is a confrontation with the police. Apart from the danger, it involves a great desecration of God's name.”
Police said 23 demonstrators were arrested in Bnei Brak and three officers were lightly injured, adding: “We will act firmly and bring the rioters to justice.” All those detained in connection with yesterday’s riots in Bnei Brak have been released.
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