HEADLINES - Israel Cabinet Mulls West Bank Settlement Expansion Amid Conflict Escalation - High Court Scrutiny Reignites Debate on Haredi Conscription in IDF - Mother of Slain Soldier Embraces Forgiveness Amidst Conflict Tragedy The time is now 11:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report. In the latest developments in the Israel-Hamas conflict, the Israeli Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, deliberated on expanding settlements in the West Bank, specifically in Judea and Samaria. This move was partly in response to unilateral recognitions of a Palestinian state by certain countries in October, as well as reactions against the Palestinian Authority for its anti-Israel actions in international forums. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and the United Torah Judaism (UTJ) party leaders requested more time to discuss specific proposals within the meeting. The issue of Haredi conscription into the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has reignited public and legal debates due to the High Court of Justice's scrutiny of blanket exemptions for ultra-Orthodox individuals. The court had deemed mass exemptions discriminatory in 2017, prompting unsuccessful attempts by successive governments to address conscription legislation. Netanyahu's recent support for advancing a bill lowering the age exemption for Haredi yeshiva students reflects efforts to navigate the delicate balance of maintaining Haredi political support while addressing military manpower needs. Moreover, the government endorsed a draft bill extending the age exemption for IDF reservists to address ongoing manpower shortages. The proposal seeks to prolong the exemption for soldiers and officers, with additional requirements for certain specialists. Despite public criticism and legal challenges, the bill aims to prevent mass discharges of reservists amid heightened security threats from conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. In a poignant story related to the conflict, Iris Haim, mother of Yotam Haim who tragically died during a failed escape from Hamas captivity, has become a symbol of forgiveness and resilience. Her message of love and forgiveness towards the IDF soldiers involved in the accidental shooting of her son exemplifies her call for unity and reconciliation in Israeli society. Iris Haim's journey from personal tragedy to national recognition underscores themes of strength, forgiveness, and hope amidst the ongoing turmoil in 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-1107611 https://www.maariv.co.il/breaking-news/Article-1107610 https://www.timesofisrael.com/haredi-leader-on-army-draft-you-dont-want-us-and-you-dont-need-us/ https://www.timesofisrael.com/iris-haim-mother-of-killed-hostage-tells-us-jews-i-bring-israel-a-new-voice-of-hope/