OVERNIGHT ISRAEL: The Day After the Pope’s Death, Ben Gvir Visits Mar-a-Lago, and October 7 Bombs Still Being Found

Welcome to Overnight Israel, where the news is as unpredictable as a Knesset debate and sometimes just as explosive. Here’s everything you need to know from the latest headlines.

ISRAEL DELETES POPE FRANCIS TRIBUTE AFTER BACKLASH

Last night, Israel’s Foreign Ministry posted a simple message mourning the death of Pope Francis:

“Rest in peace, Pope Francis. May his memory be a blessing.”

But just hours later, the post was deleted. Israeli embassies worldwide were quietly instructed to remove similar tributes and avoid signing condolence books at Vatican embassies. No official explanation was given, but Israeli diplomats warned the move “looks very bad” for Israel’s image.

The likely reason: Pope Francis had become increasingly critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza, describing them as having “characteristics of genocide.” He also made gestures seen as sympathetic to Palestinians, including a nativity scene featuring baby Jesus on a Palestinian keffiyeh: later removed after backlash. And his controversial statement that Jesus was a “Palestinian” didn’t sit well with many in Jerusalem.

So, was it about the Pope’s criticism, his outreach to Gaza’s Christians, or his remarks about Jesus’ identity? Maybe all of the above.

Either way, the diplomatic fallout was immediate, with some ambassadors warning that deleting condolences could alienate the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics. Meanwhile, hundreds gathered in the Church of the Holy Sepulchres to honor the Pope.

As for the Vatican’s own history with Jewish artifacts… don’t hold your breath for returns.

BEN GVIR IN THE U.S.: “PRISON ISN’T A HOTEL FOR TERRORISTS”

While Israel’s Foreign Ministry was busy deleting tweets, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir landed in the U.S. for his first official visit. His schedule started light but quickly filled up: highlighted by a dinner in his honor at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago (without Trump in attendance).

Ben Gvir, never one to shy away from a microphone or controversy, addressed GOP leaders and business heavyweights, declaring in Hebrew that Israeli prisons are done with “VIP treatment” for terrorists: no more extra showers, canteen perks, or special visits. He even suggested the U.S. take notes on his tough approach.

Earlier, he toured a Miami police station and met with Jewish community leaders. Some planned meetings with U.S. officials, including Homeland Security, were quietly canceled. The Biden administration and major U.S. Jewish organizations declined to meet him, reflecting his controversial reputation. Some events, including a Brooklyn fundraiser, were abruptly canceled.

Ben Gvir is Israel’s political mayonnaise; nobody’s neutral, and he always leaves a strong aftertaste.

BOMB FROM OCTOBER 7 ATTACK FOUND IN NETIVOT: 18 MONTHS LATER

Eighteen months after the October 7 Hamas attack, police in Netivot discovered an unexploded bomb in a field: left behind and forgotten for more than 500 days. A passerby noticed a suspicious bag, and inside was a live explosive device.

Police believe the bomb was left by Hamas terrorists during their failed attempt to invade Netivot on October 7, 2023. Bomb squads secured the area and are investigating whether more explosives remain hidden in southern Israel.

If you spot something suspicious, call the police; don’t try to be a hero.

ISRAELI POLITICS: INFIGHTING, AFFIDAVITS, AND KINDERGARTEN DRAMA

The Knesset remains Israel’s most unpredictable battleground. This week, Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar filed a legal affidavit accusing Prime Minister Netanyahu of pressuring him to lie about national security concerns to avoid testifying in his criminal trial. Watchdog groups are now demanding a criminal investigation into the Prime Minister for obstruction and breach of trust.

Inside the war cabinet, Finance Minister Smotrich and IDF Chief of Staff Zamir clashed over control of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Smotrich wants the IDF in charge to prevent aid reaching Hamas; Zamir says it’s not the army’s job. Smotrich’s response? “Do it… or we’ll find someone who will.” He even staged a bathroom break to avoid hearing from the Shin Bet chief.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid claims the Netanyahu government can’t win the war, but few believe Lapid could do better. The Knesset, it seems, is more like a very expensive daycare.

TO SUM UP

Israel’s Foreign Ministry deletes Pope Francis tribute after backlash

Ben Gvir’s U.S. visit sparks controversy

Bombs from the October 7 attack are still being found

Political infighting dominates the Knesset

Hostages remain in Gaza, and even Mahmoud Abbas is calling his rivals “sons of dogs.” (But what about daughters? Where’s the inclusivity?)

This has been Overnight Israel. Like, comment, and share if you enjoyed this broadcast; even if you hated it, we won’t bite.

I’m Simcha Brodsky. See you tomorrow.