Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - September 4, 2026, 11 PM Eastern

0:00Support is available 24-7 with verbo care. We're here day or night, ready whenever you need help. Because a great trip starts with the right support. You're listening to Israel Today ongoing war report. I'm Noah Levi. We begin today with developments in Yemen where the Iran-backed Houthi rebels have escalated their fight in recent days. According to reports from the New York Times, cited by J-post.com, their primary objective is to seize territory that would give them greater control over the Bab Al Mandab Strait. A crucial choke point for international shipping routes at the entrance to the Red Sea. Fighting has intensified around western Tays as the Houthi's attempt to reach the port city of Mokha, less than 50 miles from the strait. This escalation follows the Houthi's declaration of a blockade on Saudi oil tankers in July and subsequent missile and drone attacks on passing ships and Saudi facilities.

1:07Control of Mokha would significantly enhance their ability to influence ships transiting the Bab Al Mandab Strait. Turning to issues of antisemitism. Actor Mark Ruffalo is facing accusations of antisemitism for his recent social media comments. J-post.com reports that Ruffalo linked Paramount's guidance CEO David Ellison, whose father Larry Ellison is a prominent Jewish figure and supporter of Israel. To the tech giant oracles alleged role in an apartheid system of oppression in Gaza. Critics have pointed to these comments as invoking tropes about Jewish wealth and power. However, a significant group of about 170 notable Jewish personalities, including entertainers, rabbis and a physician, have released an open letter defending Ruffalo, calling the accusations a false and dangerous weaponization of charges of antisemitism. George Clooney has also publicly defended Ruffalo, also concerning antisemitism. The Times of Israel highlights a parallel approach by two US political figures. Republican Vice President J.D. Vance and Democratic Senate candidate Abdel Ellsade.

2:14In how they handle accusations of antisemitism against influential associates. Vance described as a friend of Tucker Carlson, who has made numerous comments decried as antisemitic, has been reluctant to disavow him. Similarly, Ellsade, who invited streamer Hassan Piker to campaign for him. Piker has recently charged that Jews were making antisemitism worse, and warned action would be taken against them. Has also sidesteped calls to disavow his friend, despite condemnation of Piker's remarks by prominent Democrats. The Times of Israel notes this reflects a changing discourse on antisemitism, and a collapsing firewall between politicians and those accused of extremism. broader analysis of the forces driving anti-Israel sentiment suggests that Israel has become a convenient organizing target. For diverse grievance coalitions on the left. A concept echoed by scholar Ruth Whiss. On a more proactive note, a workshop in Queens, New York, organized by Impact, is focusing on empowering Jewish community members.

3:16Particularly those aged 55 and up. With artificial intelligence and social media skills to combat online antisemitism and amplified Jewish pride. I'm Noah Levi. Thank you for listening to Israel Today ongoing war report. Stay safe and informed. Follow Israel Today, ongoing war report in your podcast app so you don't miss the next update. Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies. So consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view.

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