I have always worn my Judaism loudly and proudly, but now I find myself messaging family and friends to beg them to stay safe, asking them to avoid public Chanukah events, and hearing friends seriously contemplate pulling their children out of Jewish schools. That reality tells you everything about the world we live in today. It is open season on Jewish people.

On the first night of Chanukah, as Jews around the world prepared to light candles symbolizing resilience, victory over persecution, and the miracle of a small amount of oil that burned for eight days, we were forced instead to usher in the holiday in mourning. A Chanukah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney became a scene of terror.

In response, a vigil was organized spontaneously in Tel Aviv to honor the victims. Despite the last-minute notice, hundreds of Israelis showed up, many of them young olim who had uprooted their lives from diaspora communities to build new lives in Israel. Among them were Australians, some who had made aliyah and now live in Israel, and others who were visiting when the attack occurred and were suddenly confronted with the horror unfolding back home, where their families and friends lived.

It was clear from how they spoke that Bondi Beach was not chosen at random. For most Jews in diaspora communities, Chanukah falls in the winter, when we light candles and celebrate indoors with family and friends. But for Australian Jews, since Chanukah falls in the summer, Jewish celebrations move outdoors—into parks, beaches, and public squares. Over the years, Bondi Beach became an iconic place for these celebrations, synonymous with Australian Jewish communal life. It was a place where families gathered openly and proudly, where Judaism was visible, joyful, and unafraid.

That is precisely what made the attack so violating. The terrorists did not just target people; they targeted an identity and a community's sense of safety and belonging in Australia. They targeted the idea that Jews could exist publicly, confidently, and unhidden.

Even through grief, many Australians spoke with a profound sense of gratitude. Again and again, through tears and trembling voices, they said the same thing: "thank God we have the State of Israel." They said it while mourning the dead, while worrying about loved ones thousands of miles away, and while absorbing the trauma of what had happened. Their instinct was not despair, but relief that Israel exists.

One father from Bondi Beach, who was visiting Israel when the attack occurred, spoke at the vigil and broke down as he confirmed that his wife and children were safe. His tears were not only for fear and loss but for what he was witnessing: Jews from across the world standing with his community, showing that they were not alone. He saw that there is now a place where Jews instinctively gather in moments like this, a Jewish state that understands Jewish pain without explanation.

That reaction speaks volumes.

For generations, Jews who were massacred in pogroms, exiled from cities, or hunted across continents had nowhere to turn. There was no address for Jewish suffering, no army sworn to protect Jewish lives, and no state that viewed attacks on Jews anywhere as part of a broader threat to Jews everywhere. Today, that reality has changed.

Israel's enemies understand this clearly. Jewish institutions and places of worship worldwide often fall under the protective reach of Israel's security services, and Israel's National Security Council repeatedly warns Jews and Israelis abroad to exercise caution, particularly at unsecured public gatherings. To those who wage violence, this is not a war against a country, but a war against a people. Global terror attacks orchestrated by Iran, from Buenos Aires to Amsterdam, and the attacks in Australia in 2024, underscore this truth.

Australian Jews understood this instinctively, and in the aftermath of Bondi Beach, they responded not only with fear, but with clarity: the existence of Israel changes everything. Israel does not prevent antisemitism, nor does it stop terrorists from trying, but it ensures that Jewish blood is no longer cheap, that Jewish lives are no longer defenseless, and that Jewish communities are never truly alone.

This will not be the last targeted attack against Jews, but for the first time, Jews confront this reality with a state, an army, and a peoplehood that refuses to disappear quietly.

At Bondi Beach, terrorists tried to shatter a symbol of Jewish life lived openly and proudly, but in Israel, Australian Jews reminded us why that symbol still matters. They showed that even in the face of terror, Jewish life persists, visible, proud, and resilient, and that community and solidarity can overcome fear. The existence of Israel is a lifeline for Jewish life and security. It is a place where Jewish suffering is understood without explanation, where Jewish lives are defended, and where Jews from all over the world can find refuge and support.

This moment will be another test for the world and how it responds to the surge of terrorism globally. While Jews have historically been the first targets, we know that what begins with our community will never remain confined to it. The persistence of violence against Jews is a warning to all, and the way the world responds by calling out and taking strong measures against terrorism will determine whether hatred is allowed to spread unchecked.

For the Jewish community, the existence of Israel is not only a lifeline, but also a signal that injustice will not go unanswered and that the world must stand against those who seek to destroy the innocent.

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Erdogan allegedly made the request during a 90-minute meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at an international forum in Turkmenistan last weekend. The Turkish Presidency and Defense Ministry declined to comment on the report, while the Kremlin denied that any such request had been made. According to the report, Turkey hopes its role as a mediator between Moscow and Kyiv will encourage the Kremlin to agree to the move.

US Ambassador to Turkey Jeff Flake said earlier this week that Washington is engaged in ongoing discussions with Ankara about its desire to rejoin the F-35 program. He said the positive relationship between US President Donald Trump and Erdogan had created a new atmosphere of cooperation, leading to "the most productive talks we've had on the issue in a decade."

Flake emphasized that Turkey would have to not only cease operating the S-400 system, but also relinquish possession of it in order to be readmitted to the F-35 project. "Our hope is that these discussions will yield a breakthrough in the coming months," he added. Last week, at a conference in Abu Dhabi, Flake expressed optimism that the hurdles preventing US approval of an F-35 sale to Turkey could be resolved "within four to six months."

Turkey signed a $2.5 billion deal with Russia for the S-400 systems in September 2017, with the first shipment arriving in July 2019. Just one week later, the US expelled Turkey from the F-35 program, citing concerns that Russia could use the S-400 systems on Turkish soil to gain sensitive information about the advanced American jet.

Bloomberg also reported that Ankara may seek financial compensation for the returned system, possibly by offsetting the cost against the price of natural gas and oil imported from Russia. The matter would be subject to further negotiation between the two governments, according to the sources.

Since returning to the White House, President Trump has shown warmth toward Erdogan. During the Turkish leader's visit to Washington in September, Trump expressed willingness to move forward with the sale of F-35 jets, but made clear that "he will have to do something for us" to make the deal happen.

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The contract spans four years, concluding in 2033, and includes the main ceremony along with red carpet programming, backstage footage, and Governors Ball coverage. Additional content includes the Governors' awards, nomination reveals, the nominees' Luncheon, student Academy Awards, interviews with Academy members and filmmakers, educational programming, and podcast material.

In a joint declaration, Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy president Lynette Howell Taylor stated, "We are thrilled to enter into a multifaceted global partnership with YouTube to be the future home of the Oscars and our year-round Academy programming." The executives added, "The Academy is an international organization, and this partnership will allow us to expand access to the work of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience possible – which will be beneficial for our Academy members and the film community."

Recent years have witnessed the Academy diversifying its voting membership, with international voters now comprising 21% of the electorate.

Neal Mohan, YouTube's chief executive, indicated the collaboration would "inspire a new generation of creativity and film lovers while staying true to the Oscars' storied legacy." He described the Academy Awards as "our essential cultural institutions."

The streaming platform has reached record viewership levels in the US throughout this year, sustaining its status as the top-performing streamer amid declining network television audiences, The Guardian reported. YouTube broadcast its first live NFL game in September, drawing over 17 million viewers. By April, the service had accumulated 9.4 million subscribers.

A network spokesperson commented, "ABC has been the proud home to the Oscars for more than half a century." The statement continued, "We look forward to the next three telecasts, including the show's centennial celebration in 2028, and wish the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences continued success."

In 2023, Netflix obtained the rights to the Screen Actors Guild Awards, rebranding them as the Actor Awards and transferring them from broadcast to streaming. Variety reported that Netflix and NBCUniversal had also competed for the Oscars' rights.

This trend has drawn sharp criticism from Hollywood. Screenwriter Daniel Kunka wrote on X in response to the announcement of the contract with YouTube: "YouTube broadcasting the Oscars is like shaking hands with the guy who's trying to kill you." An insider told Variety: "They can do whatever they want. You can have a six-hour Oscars hosted by MrBeast," referring to the widely successful American YouTuber.

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Holiday foods: Hanukkah is associated with foods fried in oil – sufganiyot (jelly donuts) with various fillings and levivot (potato pancakes). In recent years, innovative recipes have driven social media trends. In our food section, you'll find all the hottest trends and recipes to make your holiday special.

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The message, written in English, read: "Iranian intelligence agencies are ready to receive your intelligence cooperation. To cooperate, contact one of the Iranian embassies via the internet."

Israel's National Cyber Directorate said it was aware of the message and issued clear instructions to the public.

What should you do?

Ignore the message completely. Do not respond and do not attempt to contact the sender. Block the sending number, mark it as spam, and do not forward the message, in order to prevent unnecessary dissemination.

Against the backdrop of more than 30 espionage-related cases exposed by the Shin Bet security agency over the past two and a half years, Israeli security officials say Iran has been carrying out widespread "spray and pray" recruitment efforts online. These attempts target normative citizens and span a broad range of sectors across Israeli society.

Investigations and indictments show that the overwhelming majority of Israelis involved were aware they were cooperating with Iran. In many cases, the initial approach was made directly through social media platforms, with messages such as: "Hello, this is Iranian intelligence. You can help us and we will help you in return for money."

According to the indictments, Israelis who established contact with Iranian handlers often began with tasks they perceived as harmless, such as photographing streets, signs or vandalizing vehicles. Over time, however, they were directed to carry out serious security-related missions. These included photographing the streets near the homes of public figures, reaching hospitals where prominent individuals were being treated, and even attempts to obtain weapons.

Israeli security officials stress that raising public awareness of the consequences of cooperating with Iranian elements, and the severe harm such ties pose to national security, is essential. The goal, they say, is to ensure that Israelis who receive suspicious approaches online or from Iranian sources understand the gravity of their actions and the seriousness of such contact with an enemy state.

Ongoing dialogue is being held with local authorities to strengthen public awareness and resilience in light of the many cases uncovered. Several months ago, Israel's National Public Diplomacy Directorate launched a broad public campaign highlighting the dangers and consequences of establishing contact with hostile Iranian elements.

Iranian espionage by the numbers

The Shin Bet has reported a 200% increase from 2024 to 2025 in counter espionage prevention activity carried out by its counterterrorism and counterintelligence division. This has involved dozens of cases, including warning calls, arrests and interrogations.

There has also been a rise of more than 30% in the number of arrests and investigations related to Iranian espionage between 2024 and 2025.

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The understandings between Israel and Egypt on the gas deal do not include an Egyptian commitment to withdraw prohibited forces from the Sinai Peninsula. Israel Hayom has learned that accompanying understandings include dialogue on mechanisms to address Egyptian violations. The US has promised to promote handling of the issue, but there is no clear commitment to rectify the situation.

In Israel, officials believe that once gas deliveries begin and Egypt becomes energy-dependent on Israeli gas, this dependence will serve as leverage to deter Cairo from violating the peace treaty. They also argue that had Israel not supplied Egypt with gas, its southern neighbor would have turned to Qatar. According to information gathered in recent years, Egypt has introduced forces into Sinai far beyond what is permitted under the security annex of the peace treaty. It has also built tunnels deep inside Sinai for storing weapons and has suspiciously extended runways at airfields.

A security achievement

As far as is currently known, none of these problems has been fully resolved. The excess Egyptian forces will remain in Sinai, but Egypt has given commitments to limit their activity. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinted that Israel achieved several gains on the security front.

Despite the agreement, efforts to politically warm relations with Egypt have so far failed because of the war in Gaza, which has yet to end, and the tense atmosphere between the presidential palace in Cairo and the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem. The Americans examined the possibility of holding a summit meeting between Netanyahu and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, with US President Donald Trump participating, but the Egyptians rejected the idea.

Alongside these issues, the gas agreement enables Israel to achieve several strategic objectives. The first is Egypt's dependence on Israeli gas, which it uses both for domestic energy needs and for liquefaction and export to Europe, a vital source of foreign currency without which Egypt's economy would collapse. Egypt has gas fields of its own, but they are insufficient for these purposes. This dependence constitutes Israeli diplomatic and security leverage over its southern neighbor, though its impact is limited to major strategic issues, chiefly reducing or even eliminating concerns that Egypt might cancel its peace treaty with Israel.

An energy powerhouse?

Israel is consolidating its status as a regional power in the energy sector. It supplies gas to Egypt and also to Jordan, which uses it for a significant portion of its energy consumption. The agreement with Israel comes at Qatar's expense. Doha had been in talks with el-Sisi on building a new gas pipeline from Qatar's giant gas fields to Egypt. Laying such a pipeline would take years, and Egypt did not have the time to wait.

The agreement opens the door to additional energy projects in cooperation with Gulf states, projects that have been on the table for a long time and are expected to advance once an agreement is reached to bring Saudi Arabia into the Abraham Accords, likely not before elections and the formation of a new government in Israel.

In the energy sphere, under the agreement Israel will build an additional gas pipeline between Ramat Hovav and Nitzana, enabling further increases in exports to Egypt. The deal is expected to restart tenders for exploration of new gas fields in the eastern Mediterranean, and the Energy Ministry is set to renew preparations for those exploration bids.

Another reason for the delay in the agreement with Egypt was the Energy Ministry's demand that remaining reserves in existing fields be sufficient for Israeli domestic consumption and remain priced at the current low levels. According to the Energy Ministry, these demands were fully met.

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Sofia and Boris Gurman

Boris Gurman, 69, and his wife, Sofia Gurman, 61, had shared 34 years of marriage before terrorists killed them. Their relatives described the couple as honest and industrious individuals who extended kindness to everyone they encountered. Dashcam video captured Boris Gurman fighting with one of the gunmen in the attack's opening moments. The footage shows Gurman seizing control of the terrorist's firearm for several seconds during their confrontation on the street, before the terrorist shot the couple at point-blank range. Eyewitnesses reported they died in each other's arms.

The family statement read: "Devoted to their family and to each other, their absence has left a void that cannot be filled... In the moments before their passing Boris, with Sofia courageously beside him, attempted to intervene to protect others. This act of bravery and selflessness reflects exactly who they were: people who instinctively chose to help, even at great personal risk."

Rabbi Eli Schlanger

Rabbi Eli Schlanger had led his congregation for 18 years and directed the Chabad mission in Bondi, where he assisted numerous individuals ranging from elderly residents to incarcerated people. He is survived by his spouse and several young children, including an infant just two months old, along with his mother and siblings.

"A devoted rabbi and chaplain, working tirelessly … to support Jewish life in the Bondi community," Chabad's statement read.

Matilda

Matilda, a 10-year-old girl, attended the Hanukkah by the Sea event alongside her family members, including her sister, when a terrorist shot her.

Her parents, Valentyna and Michael, surnames withheld on family request, immigrated to Australia from Ukraine before Russia's invasion, The Guardian reported. "We came here from the Ukraine … and I named her Matilda because she was our firstborn in Australia. And I thought that Matilda was the most Australian name that could ever exist. So just remember – remember her name," the parents stated, articulating heartbreak too vast to fully comprehend.

"Imagine you see your beautiful little sister that you love just being killed in front of you. They were like twins. They've never been separated … Matilda was very friendly. She loves school, has a lot of friends … She's just a happy kid, always gives me cuddles," her aunt Lina shared.

Dan Elkayam

Dan Elkayam, a French citizen, relocated to Australia last year to seek an engineering job. Elkayam played football passionately, and the Rockdale Ilinden Football Club in west Sydney described him as "an integral member" of its premier league squad in a Facebook statement. The club characterized him as "an extremely talented and popular figure amongst teammates. Our deepest and sincerest condolences to Dan's family, friends, and all that knew him. He will be missed," the club's statement read.

"I have learned with deep sadness of the death of our fellow citizen Dan Elkayam in the antisemitism terrorist attack in Sydney," French President Emmanuel Macron wrote. "My thoughts are with his family and loved ones, and I extend to them the full solidarity of the nation."

Peter Meagher

Peter Meagher completed 34 years of service with the NSW Police Force before retiring with the rank of detective sergeant. He volunteered as a first-grade manager for Randwick Rugby. The club mourned the devastating loss of "Marzo" in a statement, saying, "He was one of the heart and soul figures of Randwick Rugby… He spent so long in the dangerous front line as a police officer and was struck down in retirement while taking photos … Rest in Peace 'Marzo'. We all love you and will miss you greatly. We are devastated." Meagher worked as a freelance photographer at Sunday's Hanukkah event.

"Our family is heartbroken by the loss of our beloved Peter. He was a cherished brother, husband, and uncle whose kindness, generosity, and love touched everyone who knew him. Our lives have been changed forever," his family said.

Tibor Weitzen

Tibor Weitzen, 78, was a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who perished while protecting his family members from the gunfire. He immigrated to Australia from Israel in 1988, and his relatives characterized him as vibrant and full of vitality.

"My grandfather was truly the best you could ask for," his granddaughter, Leor, said. "He was so proud of us … and loved us more than life itself. He only saw the best in people and will be dearly missed." 

"He was the congregation's beloved 'candyman' who brought joy and smiles to everyone," Chabad's statement read.

Alexander Kleytman

Alexander Kleytman survived the Holocaust as a child, struggling through a brutal Siberian winter alongside his mother and younger brother to survive. Following the war's conclusion, he departed Ukraine for Australia to pursue a career in civil engineering. His children and grandchildren also attended the Bondi Hanukkah celebrations. Alexander's wife, Larissa, stated her husband of 57 years was murdered while attempting to shield her from gunfire.

"He died shielding her from the gunman's bullets," Chabad's statement read. "In addition to his wife, he leaves behind two children and 11 grandchildren."

Edith Brutman

Edith Brutman was a cherished figure within Sydney's Jewish community. "Our beloved Edith was a woman of integrity who chose humanity every day," her family shared. "She met prejudice with principle, and division with service. Our family mourns her deeply, but we ask that her life, not the senseless violence that took it, be what endures. We hope her memory calls us as a nation back to decency, courage, and peace."

Marika Pogany

Marika Pogany volunteered to transport kosher meals for COA, an organization serving Jewish seniors. "She lifted the room simply by being in it," the organization shared in a statement. "She asked for nothing and gave everything...She took the time to know every person on her route. She chatted. She listened. She noticed the small things. She changed light bulbs, literally bringing light into people's homes. Her joy and spirit carried people through their week and through their loneliness...We are shattered by her loss. Marika gave real love to this community, and her impact runs deep."

Boris Tetleroyd

The fatal shooting of Boris Tetleroyd occurred while he attended Hanukkah by the Sea alongside his son, Yakov. While Yakov sustained gunshot wounds and continues receiving treatment for severe injuries, his father succumbed to his wounds. Boris, a Soviet immigrant, is described as a loving and devoted father.

A fundraising campaign was established by his niece, who described the family's mourning over his "sudden and violent" death. "Our family is facing an unimaginable tragedy after the sudden loss of Boris Tetleroyd in the Bondi attack," his niece, Leia Roitour, said. "He was a loving husband and father, and his absence has left a void that words cannot express. My aunt is now navigating life as a widow, and my cousin is recovering in the hospital from injuries sustained during the attack."

Online social media profiles reveal Tetleroyd's passion for nature, where he documented wildlife encounters from his hiking excursions.

Reuven Morrison

Reuven Morrison was a businessman who escaped the Soviet Union as a teenager in the 1970s and built his life in Bondi. Following a 2024 terror attack on a Melbourne synagogue, he informed the ABC he had become constantly alert, and expected Australia would offer Jews security.

In an interview with ILTV, his daughter recounted her father's heroism, throwing bricks at one of the terrorists to try and stop him. "My dear father was shot dead for being Jewish," his daughter, Sheina, said in pain. "He had jumped up the second the shooting started. He managed to throw bricks, he was screaming at the terrorist, and protecting his community," she added. "If there was a way for him to go on this earth, it will be fighting a terrorist."

"Most beautiful, generous man who had a gorgeous smile that would light up the room. He built a life here in Australia for his family and was an active member and generous contributor to both Melbourne and Sydney Jewish communities," Rabbi Gabi Kaltman said.

Rabbi Yaakov Levitan

Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, 39, was the secretary at the Sydney Beth Din and chief operating officer of Chabad of Bondi. He died alongside Rabbi Eli Schlanger, the assistant rabbi of Chabad of Bondi, who served as emcee that night. The two men had collaborated for years, and their wives had been close friends since high school, according to Chabad. They served the community together and were killed together.

"When something needed to get done, it was Yaakov," family friend Avremi Jospeh said. "From the big-ticket items to simply taking out the trash —he did it all with his full heart and soul... I used to ask him, 'What time do you come home for dinner?' He said, 'I come home at around 8 p.m. every night.' He was completely given over to the community."

Adam Smyth

Adam Smyth, 50, a father of four and devoted husband to Katrina, was killed in the devastating attack at Bondi Beach on Sunday evening. The couple was walking along the beach when the shooting occurred.

Family members described their grief as beyond words, struggling to comprehend the tragic loss. They remembered Adam as someone who lived life to the fullest alongside Katrina, sharing a deep love for family, friends, travel, and sports, even when their team loyalties diverged.

A passionate sports enthusiast, Adam was a devoted supporter of Liverpool FC in the English Premier League, the Sydney Swans in the AFL, and the Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL. He also cherished his pets deeply.

Those who knew him described Adam as a generous and kind-hearted individual whose presence was irreplaceable. His family closed their tribute with the famous words of the Liverpool anthem, "You'll never walk alone" (YNWA), reflecting both his love for the club and the enduring bond they shared with him.

The list will be updated as more names are released.

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In a recorded statement, Netanyahu said the total value of the deal was estimated at about 112 billion shekels, roughly $34 billion, with 58 billion shekels, about $18 billion, expected to flow into state coffers.

At the same time as Netanyahu's announcement, NewMed Energy reported to the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange that it had received approval to export natural gas to Egypt. The authorization, granted by the Energy Ministry, allows the implementation of the export agreement signed in August, which is valued at approximately $35 billion.

As part of the approval, assurances were given that Israel would maintain attractive domestic natural gas prices and that gas supplies to the local market would be secured. The decision also paves the way for a final investment decision on the expansion of the Leviathan gas field, a move expected to significantly increase production capacity from the reservoir.

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In June, preparations for war were virtually finished, The Washington Post reported. Numerous Israeli agents were positioned within Iran, armed with sophisticated weaponry. Israeli Air Force pilots awaited orders to strike nuclear infrastructure and missile sites. Jerusalem and the US had reached a consensus on Tehran's nuclear progress. Diplomatic ruses were employed to distract the regime.

Security officials knew that lasting damage required eliminating the "brain trust," the scientists whom intelligence agencies believed were mastering the creation of atomic bombs.

At 3:21 a.m. on June 13, Israeli weapons struck Tehran, initiating Operation Narnia. Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi, a sanctioned physicist, was killed in his apartment. Fereydoun Abbasi, another key figure, died two hours later. Israel stated it assassinated 11 senior scientists during the campaign.

The Washington Post and PBS "Frontline" revealed these details based on interviews with officials. Experts say the program has been set back years, though this contradicts President Donald Trump's claim that it was "completely and totally obliterated."

Amir Tehranchi told Frontline regarding his brother: "With the killing of these professors, they might be gone, but their knowledge isn't lost to our country."

Israel had previously killed scientists using deniable methods. In June, however, it acted openly, emboldened by successes against proxies in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. An Israeli Air Force general stated they finally had an "operational opportunity to do it."

For Operation Narnia, analysts identified the 100 most critical scientists, narrowing the list to about a dozen. The Washington Post and Bellingcat verified 71 civilian casualties in the strikes.

One attack on the Professors Complex killed 10 civilians. Another strike targeted Mohammad Reza Sedighi Saber but killed his son. Saber was later killed in Astaneh-ye Ashrafiyeh.

"One of the major considerations for the planning of Operation Narnia was to try to minimize as much as possible the collateral damage," a senior Israeli officer said.

Brig. Gen. Elad Edri noted Iranian retaliation killed 31 Israelis. Tehran claimed 1,062 deaths from the Israeli campaign. The wider campaign, Rising Lion, destroyed over half of Iran's missile launchers and decimated air defenses. US B-2 bombers and Tomahawk missiles participated. Inside Iran, Mossad mobilized agents equipped with a "special weapon" for precision attacks.

"This operation is unprecedented in history," the official said. "We mobilized our own assets and agents to go close to Tehran and launch the ground operation before the [Israeli] Air Force could enter Iranian airspace."

Israel had long contemplated this assault. Obstacles vanished after the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack. The ensuing war in Gaza and operations against Hezbollah changed the strategic landscape. The collapse of the Syrian regime in 2024 also contributed.

"Plans changed along the years, but they became very concrete after those two events," the Israeli Air Force general said. While the US and Israel agreed Iran was seeking a weapon, intelligence assessments varied.

Netanyahu presented Trump with four attack scenarios. Planning continued despite Trump's desire for diplomacy. "The thinking was, if talks fail, we are ready to go," a source said.

The Iran-Israel war took place in June 2025 (Pictured: The Iranian flag next to a missile in Iran in 2008) / AP Photo/Fars News Agency, Vahid Reza Alaei

In April, Trump gave Iran 60 days to agree to a deal. As the deadline passed, he and Netanyahu used deception to mask the coming strike.

"All the reports that were written about Bibi not being on the same page with Witkoff or Trump were not true," the source said. "But it was good that this was the general perception, it helped to move on with the planning without many people noticing it."

The Trump administration made a final push even as bombing began, secretly transmitting a proposal. The terms included Tehran ending support for proxies and "replacing" the Fordow facility and "any other functioning facility". In return, the US would lift "all sanctions placed on Iran."

"What Iran did not know is that this overture would be its final opportunity before Trump approved US firepower joining Israel's," The Post reported.  Tehran rejected it, and Trump authorized US strikes, a diplomat told the Post. 

Officials say damage is severe. "Overall, the damage caused by airstrikes to numerous nuclear sites was extensive and, in many cases, catastrophic," the Institute for Science and International Security stated.

Israel claims the program is "significantly delayed". IAEA chief Rafael Mariano Grossi told Frontline damage is "very substantial," though the uranium stockpile "is where it was by and large."

"Obviously, without having physical access to a place, any evaluation is partial," Grossi said.

Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani told Frontline: "Iran's nuclear program can never be destroyed... Because once you have discovered a technology, they can't take the discovery away."

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According to the outlet's digital forensics team, which included a video posted on their X account, there is reason to believe Naveed Akram and his father, Sajid Akram, were present at the demonstration featuring the "Gas the Jews" chant on October 9, 2023.

Video: Member of the public overpowers terrorist / Credit: Social media

Campaign Against Antisemitism recalled that Australian law enforcement claimed during that period – in opposition to witness accounts – that the mob was chanting "Where's the Jews", implying this nuance somehow ameliorated the offense.

While the Campaign Against Antisemitism assigned a medium level of confidence to this identification, it released the raw footage to allow viewers to form their own conclusions.

Were the Bondi beach terrorists at the 'Gas the Jews' protest in Sydney two days after October 7th?

Our online investigators believe that Naveed Akram and his father Sajid Akram may have been present at the 'Gas the Jews' protest in Sydney on 9th October 2023.

(At the time,… pic.twitter.com/wSxHFFktXU

— Campaign Against Antisemitism (@antisemitism) December 16, 2025

If confirmed, posited this would serve as undeniable evidence – particularly for Western law enforcement officials who seem last to understand – that a direct trajectory exists between these hate marches and the murder of Jews.

"If it is true, it would represent some of the clearest evidence yet – to those, such as police chiefs across the West, who seem to be the among the last to grasp it – that there is a direct line between the hate marches and demonstrations and the murder of Jews," it said.

Video: The site of the shooting in Bondi Beach / Credit: Social media

Western governments should have dismantled this infrastructure of incitement years ago, CAA asserted. "The authorities across the West should have clamped down on the incitement years ago. It is too late for the dead, and, if they do not finally act, it will soon be too late for the West as well."

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