I first interviewed Herzog, who hails from a storied Israeli political family, after Trump made his pardon push but before Netanyahu had formally requested one. Herzog praised the U.S. president, including for his work to bring hostages back from Gaza — but also made clear that any pardon was an internal matter.

Israel is facing an impending crisis over conscripting ultra-Orthodox Jews into the Israeli army, and the issue is threatening to undermine Israel's government and split the country. Lucy Williamson reports from the city of Bnei Brak.

Ireland, the Netherlands, Spain and Slovenia said they were pulling out of the contest after organizers decided to allow Israel to continue to compete, despite tensions over its conduct in Gaza.

Gaza militia leader Yasser Abu Shabab died from injuries sustained in a clan confrontation while working to distribute aid and fight Hamas in Rafah.

Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem on Friday criticised the Lebanese government's decision to send a civilian delegate to the ceasefire committee, calling it a "free concession" to Israel and a clear violation of previous government positions.

In all, 20 living hostages and the remains of 27 others have been returned to Israel since a U.S.-brokered ceasefire began in early October.

Israel receives coffin possibly containing the remains of one of the last two deceased hostages in Gaza, Ran Gvili or Sudthisak Rinthalak.

Israel says that partial remains returned from Gaza earlier this week do not match either of the hostages taken during Hamas’ 2023 attack who remain in Gaza.

Spain, Ireland, Slovenia and the Netherlands announced their withdrawals Thursday from next year’s Eurovision Song Contest after organizers decided that Israel will be allowed to compete.

Negotiations between Lebanon and Israel took a new turn this week, as the long-time enemies agreed to engage in direct, U.S.-backed talks.