VFI News Israel Kills Hezbollah Military Chief in Beirut Strike
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In Escalation, IDF Says It Killed Hezbollah Military Chief in Targeted Beirut Strike
Israeli forces carried out a targeted strike in Beirut’s southern suburb of Haret Hreik on Sunday, November 23, 2025, eliminating Haytham Ali Tabatabai, Hezbollah’s de facto chief of staff. The military described him as a veteran and central operative who previously led the Radwan Force and oversaw the group’s operations in Syria, later heading Hezbollah’s operations division during the current war. Lebanese authorities reported that the strike damaged multiple floors of a residential building, with a preliminary tally of one person killed and 21 wounded.
Officials in Jerusalem framed the operation as part of a broader effort to degrade Hezbollah’s command structure after months of escalatory fire from Lebanon. The Prime Minister’s Office said the decision followed consultations with the defense minister and the IDF chief of staff, emphasizing that Israel would act “in any place and at any time” to achieve its security objectives. The IDF released footage of the strike amid heightened alerts in the north.
Reports from the scene indicated the building was hit by several missiles, impacting vehicles and nearby structures. While Washington had anticipated a general uptick in Israeli activity against Hezbollah, US officials were not given advance notice of the timing, location, or target. Lebanese leaders called for international action to halt Israeli attacks, while Israel’s defense minister vowed continued operations to remove threats to residents of the north.
(TOI/VFI News)
“The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” – Psalm 121:7–8
IDF: Troops Killed 6 Hamas Operatives Who Emerged from Rafah Tunnels, Nabbed Another 5
On Friday, November 21, 2025, IDF units monitoring tunnel shafts in eastern Rafah reported multiple Hamas operatives emerging from underground positions on the Israeli-controlled side of the “Yellow Line.” Air assets struck at least six gunmen while ground forces from the Nahal Brigade detained five others who surrendered. Images released by the military showed several detainees bound and seated beside an armored vehicle, as commanders on the ground approved follow-on actions to secure the area.
The military said it was still scanning from the air and on the ground to locate additional operatives who may have surfaced from the same network. The incident came despite an October ceasefire, which Israeli officials have warned Hamas elements were exploiting to regroup. In recent days, the army has focused on destroying remaining underground routes in Rafah, seeking to eliminate cells believed to be holding out in tunnels.
Israel has reported repeated attacks against its troops since the truce took effect, even as international agencies highlight humanitarian shortfalls inside the Strip. The IDF maintains that it targets armed operatives and military infrastructure while acting within the bounds of international law, and has pledged to keep pressure on remaining tunnel networks until they are rendered inoperable.
(TOI/VFI News)
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
IDF Eliminates Two Hezbollah Operatives in Southern Lebanon
The IDF struck targets near Bint Jbeil and Blida in southern Lebanon on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, killing two Hezbollah operatives in separate actions. According to the army, one of the men played a role in rebuilding the group’s infrastructure, while the other was observed gathering intelligence on Israeli forces operating along the border. The strikes formed part of an ongoing campaign to blunt Hezbollah’s presence and deter efforts to reconstitute offensive capabilities.
Military officials said the actions addressed violations of understandings meant to reduce hostilities along the frontier. Israel has warned that surveillance and rearmament activities in the area would draw rapid responses, with the aim of protecting northern communities and preventing a return to the pre–October 7 status quo.
The army has continued precision strikes on operatives in southern Lebanon in parallel with defensive measures along the border. Commanders reiterated that they will operate as needed to remove immediate threats and maintain the safety of Israeli citizens.
(INN/VFI News)
Lord, we pray for the safety of residents in Israel’s north and for the swift end of hostile activity along the border. Protect soldiers and civilians alike, frustrate the plans of terror operatives, and bring de-escalation that preserves life. Grant wisdom to leaders and clarity to those tasked with defending communities so that peace and security may take deeper root.
Returned Captive Avera Mengistu Celebrates First Sigd Since Release from Gaza
Avera Mengistu marked the Sigd holiday in Jerusalem on Thursday, November 20, 2025—his first Sigd since returning to Israel earlier this year after more than a decade in Hamas captivity. Members of the Ethiopian Jewish community, together with religious leaders, welcomed him at the central prayers overlooking the capital. After months of medical care and rehabilitation, Mengistu’s public appearance symbolized resilience and the community’s long-standing yearning for Zion and Jerusalem.
Sigd, held 50 days after Yom Kippur, commemorates the renewal of the covenant with the Torah and a collective plea for peace in Jerusalem. At the ceremony, President Isaac Herzog praised the perseverance that led to Mengistu’s return and urged unity. He also renewed calls to locate missing girl Haymanut Kasau and to bring home all remaining hostages.
The celebration reflected both national gratitude and the ongoing work of healing for those affected by captivity and conflict. Community leaders emphasized the need for continued solidarity, prayer, and practical support for families still awaiting news of loved ones.
(YNN/VFI News)
Father, thank You for Avera’s return and for the faith that sustained him and his family. Bless the Ethiopian Jewish community as they celebrate Sigd, and comfort all who still wait for loved ones. Strengthen those seeking the missing, and surround every former captive with healing, hope, and a renewed sense of purpose.
IDF Escalates Strikes on Hezbollah in Villages to Press for Disarmament
Israel’s Northern Command has intensified targeted strikes on Hezbollah assets embedded in southern Lebanon villages, with commanders saying the goal is to keep the organization weak and force a path toward disarmament. In remarks to regional leaders on Thursday, November 6, 2025, Maj.-Gen. Rafi Milo underscored a strategy of determined, focused action aimed at degrading operational infrastructure and preventing a renewed threat to communities across the border.
Recent sorties and precision strikes have concentrated on areas where intelligence indicates Hezbollah has reconstituted positions or attempted to gather targeting information on Israeli forces. The campaign has unfolded alongside diplomatic efforts to reinforce security arrangements and push for the group’s demilitarization.
Israeli officials stress that operations are designed to minimize harm to civilians while denying Hezbollah the ability to stage attacks from populated areas. The military has indicated that the pace of activity will be calibrated to the threat, with additional measures considered if reconstruction of militant capabilities continues.
(JPost/VFI News)
Mossad Exposes Hamas ‘Octopus’ Network Plotting ‘Command Day’ Attacks on Jewish Targets in Europe
Israeli intelligence announced the exposure of a Europe-wide Hamas network allegedly preparing coordinated attacks against Israeli and Jewish targets on a so-called “command day.” The disclosure on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, described arrests carried out with European partners and the seizure of weapons stockpiles, including a cache in Vienna linked to Muhammad Naim, son of senior Hamas official Basem Naim. Investigators also examined suspected operational links in Turkey and meetings in Qatar tied to planning.
Authorities in Germany and Austria reported multiple arrests and seizures as the probe widened, while prosecutors in Berlin have pursued cases against men accused of attempting to procure weapons for assaults on Jewish institutions. The Israeli side said its months-long investigation indicated a coordinated effort by Hamas elements to build capacity on European soil, using cover organizations and clandestine logistics.
Officials framed the dismantling of the network as a wake-up call for European security services and Jewish communities still facing elevated threats. Cooperation among agencies was credited with preventing plots and disrupting cells before they could act.
(BB/VFI News)
“Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me.” – Psalm 138:7
Antisemitic Mob Descends on Historic NYC Synagogue
A large group of anti-Israel demonstrators massed outside a historic synagogue in Manhattan during the week of November 20, 2025, chanting menacing slogans and disrupting access for congregants attending an event inside. Community leaders described the gathering as a deeply unsettling moment for Jewish New Yorkers and called for stronger safeguards around houses of worship.
City officials later criticized how the scene was managed and pledged reviews of protocols for protecting religious venues during volatile protests. Police acknowledged shortcomings in maintaining clear passageways and ensuring that worshippers could safely enter and exit the building. The episode drew widespread condemnation across the political spectrum and renewed debates about balancing free assembly with the protection of communities targeted by hate.
Jewish organizations urged city leaders to enforce buffer zones around synagogues, improve de-escalation tactics, and pursue charges where threats cross legal lines. They also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and to report harassment or intimidation promptly.
(NYP/VFI News)
Lord, shield synagogues and all houses of worship from intimidation and violence. Strengthen law enforcement to act wisely and effectively, calm the fury of mobs, and comfort communities living under threat. May Your peace guard every entrance and every heart.
‘Thought Police’ Arrest Christian Preacher After Saying ‘God Bless You’ to Palestine Protesters
In the United Kingdom, a street preacher at a pro-Palestinian demonstration was confronted by officers after telling a participant, “God bless you.” Video from the scene shows police warning that his remarks and continued preaching were causing alarm or distress, with the situation escalating into an arrest under public order legislation. The exchange has sparked intense debate over free expression, public order powers, and equal treatment of faith groups in contentious protest settings.
Supporters of the preacher say that routine street evangelism is being policed more aggressively, while critics counter that amplification and confrontational speech can inflame already tense gatherings. Legal advocates note that officers have wide discretion under public order laws but stress that enforcement must remain neutral toward religion and viewpoint.
The incident has renewed calls to safeguard peaceful religious expression in public spaces while ensuring that protests remain nonviolent and that incitement is addressed consistently and lawfully.
(DM/VFI News)
“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” – 1 Peter 3:15
The suggestions, opinions, and scripture references made by VFI News writers and editors are based on the best information received.
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