HEADLINES **Nuclear Arms Spending Surges to $91 Billion Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict** **Israel-Hezbollah Tensions Reach Boiling Point, IDF Warns of Major War** **Rescued Hostages Reveal Harrowing Captivity in Gaza, Highlighting Human Cost of Conflict** The time is now 03:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report. In the latest developments surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict, reports have revealed a surge in nuclear arms spending by nuclear-armed countries, totaling $91 billion last year. The International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons and the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute indicated that spending on nuclear weapons has been increasing as these states modernize and deploy new weapons, hinting at a potential nuclear arms race. While the total number of nuclear warheads worldwide has slightly decreased, the number of operational warheads has risen, with some on high alert for potential use. Additionally, tensions have escalated between Israel and Hezbollah, with the IDF warning of a looming major war. Following Hezbollah's aggressive actions, including launching rockets and drones into Israeli territory, the situation is on the brink of a wider escalation with devastating consequences for Lebanon and the region. Hezbollah has fired thousands of rockets from Lebanon at Israel since October 7th, claiming solidarity with Hamas in the conflict. International efforts are underway to seek a diplomatic solution, but Israel remains firm on ensuring the safe return of displaced residents in northern Israel, regardless of the outcome of negotiations. Furthermore, details have emerged about the harrowing captivity endured by hostages rescued by the IDF in Gaza, shedding light on the challenges faced by civilians caught in the conflict. These events underscore the complex dynamics and grave implications of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, as regional tensions continue to escalate and potential for wider conflict looms. The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic efforts and military readiness playing crucial roles in shaping the future of the region. 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-1107663 https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/Article-1107655 https://www.timesofisrael.com/nuclear-arms-spending-soars-as-global-tensions-ratchet-up-studies-show/ https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/Article-1107645 https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/Article-1107644 https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/Article-1107643 https://www.israelhayom.com/2024/06/17/wsj-reveals-details-of-hostages-hellish-captivity-in-gaza-familys-apartment/ https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/Article-1107641 a href="https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/Article-1107639"...