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Israel Daily News - January 12, 2026 | As Iran Erupts, the Mideast is on Edge

·25 min·2 clips

Iran's regime kills hundreds as protests escalate, while the U.S. and Israel hold high-level security talks.

This ILTV Israel Daily News episode covers Iran's internal crisis, regional security implications, and other Israeli news. Hosts Steve Leibovitz and Ladar Gravelazi present reports from correspondents and an interview with Iran expert Nati Toubian. The episode details Iran's violent crackdown on prolonged anti-regime protests. Human rights groups report over 10,600 detentions and at least 500 protester deaths, though actual figures are believed higher due to an internet blackout. Iran's Revolutionary Guard and militias are using live ammunition and mass arrests, while regime officials blame Israel and the United States for inciting unrest. Iran's parliament speaker explicitly threatened Israeli and U.S. regional bases as legitimate targets if Iran is attacked. U.S. President Donald Trump characterized the protesters as seeking freedom and is being briefed on potential responses including military strikes and cyber operations. Israel is elevating its alert levels and coordinating with American officials amid fears of Iranian retaliation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Israel is monitoring events closely and will protect its security. Expert Nati Toubian cited an Iranian journalist's estimate that the death toll may have exceeded 10,000, sharing tragic anecdotes of young married couples joining protests knowing they might not return. Toubian suggested the regime's crackdown indicates a distress signal due to a lack of sufficient forces, compounded by the loss of proxy support from groups like Hezbollah. The episode also reports on Hamas claiming readiness to transfer Gaza's civil control to a U.S.-backed board of peace, though Israel remains skeptical and is preparing a potential new offensive on Gaza City. On the northern front, the IDF struck Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, asserting ceasefire violations. The report covers Kurdish evacuations in Aleppo, Syria, which Israel watches due to concerns over Iranian influence. President Trump denied anti-Semitism within his political base, citing his pro-Israel record. Japan's foreign minister visited Jerusalem to strengthen bilateral ties, and an IDF alpine unit completed specialized training on Mount Hermon. The tone is formal and news-oriented, blending straight news reporting with expert analysis. The style is informational, focusing on security and geopolitical developments from an Israeli perspective. Listeners interested in Middle Eastern geopolitics, Israeli security policy, and Iran's internal dynamics will find this episode comprehensive. Those seeking lighter content or perspectives critical of Israeli government policy might choose to skip it.

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