HEADLINES - **UAV Strike in Southern Lebanon Escalates Israel-Hamas Conflict** - **ICC to Seek Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu, Gallant, and Hamas Leaders** - **Controversial Bill Proposes PIID Under Justice Minister's Control** The time is now 01:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report. In the latest developments surrounding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, several significant news stories have emerged over the past hour. First, reports indicate that an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) carried out an attack in southern Lebanon, targeting areas around Yaroun and Maroun al-Ras. This information, relayed by Israeli media and citing the Hezbollah-affiliated Lebanese outlet Al Mayadeen, underscores the volatile and expanding nature of the conflict. The implications of this attack are still unfolding, and it remains a developing story. In a separate but equally critical issue, Likud Member of Knesset Dan Illouz has introduced legislation aimed at altering the structure of the Police Internal Investigations Department (PIID). This bill proposes bringing the PIID under the direct control of Justice Minister Yariv Levin, raising concerns about judicial independence and potential political influence over law enforcement. Critics argue that the move could undermine the autonomy of the PIID, which is currently under the State Attorney’s Office. This legislative effort is seen by some as a continuation of the controversial judicial overhaul that has been a point of contention within the Israeli government. The bill is set to be reviewed by the Ministerial Committee on Legislation soon. On the international front, the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, has announced plans to seek arrest warrants against top Israeli and Hamas leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. This announcement has drawn sharp rebukes from various quarters. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concerns that such actions could complicate negotiations for the release of hostages held by Hamas. Furthermore, multiple European leaders have condemned the ICC's decision, with French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak criticizing what they see as an unacceptable comparison between Israel and Hamas. Netanyahu himself has strongly denounced the move, likening it to charging US leaders alongside al-Qaeda after the September 11 attacks. In related news, Qatar’s foreign ministry has described the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release talks between Israel and Hamas as being “close to a stalemate.” The ongoing negotiations involve multiple international actors, including Qatar and Egypt, but progress remains elusive, exacerbated by recent developments such as the ICC’s announcement. In domestic news, the Knesset has approved a decision to scale down the Lag Ba'omer event at Mount Meron, limiting it to three bonfires. This decision was made in light of the current security situation, reflecting the broader impact of the conflict on Israeli society. Lastly, on a different note, a young cyclist was injured in Haifa after being struck by a vehicle. The 18-year-old is reported to be in moderate condition with head and limb injuries and is receiving treatment at Rambam Hospital. These stories reflect the multifaceted and dynamic nature of the current situation in Israel and the broader region. The developments are being closely monitored as the conflict continues to evolve. 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...