Top Headlines:
- Iran Nears Nuclear Threshold; Khamenei Authorizes Preemptive Strike on Israel Following Haniyeh’s Assassination
- Iran’s Covert Interference in U.S. Elections
- Revealed: The Secret Final Days and Assassination of Ismail Haniyeh
- Ukrainian Commandos Target Russian Military Hub in Syria in Daring Raid
- U.S. Forces Conduct Airstrike in Iraq; Local Militias Break Ceasefire
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★ IRAN
Iran Two Days Away From Nuclear Capability
The USA Today update about Blinken’s declaration that Iran is close to nuclear capability, previously published on July 19, 2024, indicates that Iran is merely two days away from acquiring enough fissile material for a nuclear weapon. This alarming disclosure highlights a significant acceleration in Iran’s nuclear capabilities, previously believed to be at least a year away before the U.S. withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal. Under President Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran is intensifying its nuclear program to end global isolation and push for the nuclear agreement’s reinstatement. This critical situation requires immediate international pressure and intervention despite geopolitical tensions.
Khamenei Commands Retaliatory Strike on Israel After Haniyeh’s Assassination
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has commanded a military strike against Israel in retaliation for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Following an urgent meeting of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, disclosed by The New York Times through confidential sources, including two Revolutionary Guard officials, Khamenei emphasized the need for revenge in a post on X. Previous Iranian attacks in April saw most drones and missiles intercepted, prompting U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to reaffirm support for Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of challenging days ahead, asserting readiness for any scenario. Meanwhile, the red flag of revenge was raised over the Jamkaran Mosque in Qom, and in Gaza City’s Shatti refugee camp, children displayed pictures of Haniyeh above his house’s ruins, signaling a hardened resolve for retaliation.
Revealed: The Secret Final Days and Assassination of Ismail Haniyeh
Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in a high-security zone in Tehran, only five kilometers from the residence of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This area, known for its stringent surveillance, is protected by a special unit of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which operates under the direct command of Mojtaba Khamenei, the Supreme Leader’s son. Mojtaba wields significant influence within the IRGC, including oversight of its Basij paramilitary forces, which are responsible for maintaining internal security and suppressing dissent.
After establishing his temporary residence within such a rigorously guarded vicinity, Ismail Haniyeh’s presence in Tehran took a fatal turn. Just two days post his participation in the ceremonious Tanfiz event, a missile strike at 2:00 a.m. precisely targeted his apartment in the Saadabad complex’s Basij Al-Zahraa camp. The attack resulted in Haniyeh’s death along with his assistant, while Ziad Al-Nakhala narrowly escaped the lethal strike.
This summary draws upon content originally reported by Al Hadath Channel and translated into English by the Early Phoenix Team, as detailed here. The narrative is also supported by additional corroborations from various media sources, hyperlinked below. This exclusive compilation aims to deliver a concise and accurate depiction of the events as outlined by the channel.
The circumstances surrounding Ismail Haniyeh’s assassination in Tehran are shrouded in mystery, as Iranian authorities have not disclosed specific details about his final whereabouts or the precise conditions of his death. Haniyeh was reportedly under the protection of the Ansar al-Mahdi Corps, tasked with safeguarding political figures in Iran.
Haniyeh’s visit to Iran, characterized by high-profile meetings including with Iranian leader Ali Khamenei and attending the Iranian president’s inauguration, reportedly ensnared the latter, according to American Responsible Statecraft.
The source of the missile remains disputed, with Israeli media asserting it was launched from within Iran, while Iranian outlets claim an external origin. The incident adds to a series of targeted killings attributed to Israel, including the recent assassination of Hamas Vice President Saleh Al-Aruri in Beirut.
Although Israel has not officially acknowledged responsibility for Haniyeh’s death, it is seen as part of an ongoing strategy to dismantle Hamas leadership, potentially reinforcing Prime Minister Netanyahu’s position, despite calls for targeting other key Hamas figures. However, discussions suggest that a definitive Israeli victory may hinge on further actions against key Hamas figures like Yahya Sinwar.
Israel’s Uncompromising Stance on Targeted Assassinations
Following the success of its recent targeted assassinations, Israeli Channel Abu AliExpress: communicated a clear and uncompromising message: no one is immune, regardless of their location, even in ostensibly secure areas like Beirut or Tehran. This statement, circulated through the Abu AliExpress Telegram Channel, underscores Israel’s strategy of extending its military campaign against Gaza to include high-profile Hamas leaders, emphasizing that these individuals can be targeted anywhere and at any time.
Controversy Surrounds EU Officials Attending Iran’s Presidential Inauguration
The grand Tanfiz ceremony in Tehran, initially shrouded in secrecy regarding the names and identities of the 10 presidents and 70+ delegates, turned out to include top EU officials, igniting significant controversy. The European Union’s decision to send high-level representatives to Iran’s presidential inauguration has faced severe backlash from EU members and human rights activists. Critics argue that the presence of EU representatives at the ceremony legitimizes Iran’s regime, which is under sanctions for human rights abuses and support for terrorism. Polish MEP Adam Bielan and others contend that this move undermines the EU’s values and foreign policy principles. However, the EU maintains that the participation was strictly at a diplomatic level and should not be seen as an endorsement. European leaders, acutely aware of the situation’s volatility claim they are actively working to de-escalate tensions. In other related news, the international reactions have been mixed but generally cautious. Key global players like Moscow and Ankara have condemned the assassination, with Moscow describing it as a “completely unacceptable political assassination” and Turkey calling it a “heinous attack.”
Iran Actively Meddling in US Elections, White House Responds
Iran is sabotaging former President Trump’s presidential campaign by using online personas and propaganda to spread disinformation, according to U.S. spy agencies. Observations indicate Tehran’s ongoing efforts to influence the election, focusing on the Republican candidate since 2020. Furthermore, Iran faces accusations of a plot to assassinate Trump, following a gunman’s attack at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo castigated the Biden-Harris administration for its perceived “weakness and appeasement,” claiming it emboldens Iranian interference. GOP Senators, led by Tom Cotton, are advocating for legislation to mandate full disclosure of Iran’s influence operations. In response, the White House has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process and is working closely with intelligence agencies to address and counter any foreign interference.
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★ ISRAEL & PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES
Blinken Asserts U.S. Non-Involvement in Haniyeh’s Assassination
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the U.S. was neither involved in nor aware of the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Speaking during a visit to Singapore, Blinken highlighted the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza, following Haniyeh’s death. He emphasized the importance of releasing hostages and stopping the violence as crucial steps to de-escalate tensions. Blinken reiterated that a ceasefire is the best path to calming the situation in the region.
Israeli Military Faces Legal Hurdles in Haredi Recruitment
Deputy Legal Advisor to the Israeli Government, Gil Limon, informed the Defense Ministry’s legal advisor that the IDF cannot continue to recruit working Haredim while excluding those in full-time religious studies. The IDF had issued 3,000 draft orders to Haredim identified as workers or university students, with subsequent rounds scheduled. Limon acknowledged the urgent manpower needs but stressed that future recruitment must not discriminate. He urged the state to present its plan to draft 4,800 Haredim next year and to increase this number in the future.
IDF Concludes Major Operation in Khan Younis, Targets Hamas Infrastructure
The Israeli Defense Forces’ elite 98th Division completed an intensive operation in Khan Younis, dismantling 100 km of tunnels and damaging 75% of Hamas infrastructure. The mission aimed to capture Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, who narrowly escaped. The unit also retrieved the bodies of five hostages. This operation highlights Israel’s strategic efforts to weaken Hamas’ capabilities in Gaza.
Heightened Security for Israeli Olympic Delegation Following Assassination Threats
Following the recent assassinations of key figures, including Hamas’s Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah’s Fuad Shukr, security for Israel’s Olympic delegation in Paris has been significantly increased. The Shin Bet and French security officials are taking additional measures, fearing potential revenge attacks targeting the athletes. The Israeli athletes, already receiving threats, will be closely protected with heightened security protocols. The Israeli and French security forces are coordinating efforts to ensure the safety of the delegation.
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★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH CRISIS
Israel Neutralizes Hezbollah Commander Following Golan Heights Tragedy
One day prior to the assassination of Ismail Hanieyh, Israel conducted a highly precise strike in Lebanon, eliminating Fuad Shukr, Hezbollah’s second-in-command and the military advisor responsible for coordinating the militia’s attacks. The strike, described by the Israeli military as an “intelligence-based elimination,” targeted Shukr for his role in a recent rocket attack on the Golan Heights that killed 12 people, mostly children.
More than 48 hours passed before Hezbollah officially announced the death of the commander after searching for his remains in the rubble of the building where the missile strike killed him. Lebanese Cartaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the strike as “blatant Israeli aggression.”
Hezbollah has vowed to respond forcefully to any Israeli attack, claiming the capability to bomb military facilities in Haifa, the Golan, and Ramat David. Meanwhile, senior American diplomats are attempting to limit Israeli retaliation after the Majdal Shams massacre to prevent further attacks on Beirut.
Unprecedented Suspension of Lebanon Flights for Third Day
Major airlines, including Middle East Airlines, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines, have continued to suspend flights to Beirut for the third day in a row due to fear of getting caught in the fire exchanges between Hezbollah and Israel. The gravity of the situation cannot be underestimated, leaving millions of people who may want to flee without access to flight transportation. The next available airport is in Amman, Jordan, as Syria’s primary airports, including Damascus International Airport and Aleppo International Airport, have been rendered inoperative following severe damage from Israeli airstrikes. Saudi Arabia, France, Norway, and Sweden have urged their citizens to leave Lebanon immediately. The U.S. State Department has issued a travel advisory, indicating growing concerns over potential conflict escalation. The fate of those waiting to depart Lebanon remains unknown.
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★ SYRIA
Ukrainian Special Forces Strike Russian Base in Syria
Ukrainian HUR special forces executed a significant strike on a Russian base in Syria on July 25. Exclusive videos obtained by Kyiv Post show the Khimik group targeting Russian military equipment at the Kuweires airbase, near Aleppo, occupied by Russian forces since 2015. The videos depict the destruction of a Russian mobile electronic warfare complex and drone attacks on military objects. The strike followed a Kremlin meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Bashar al-Assad on July 24. Ukrainian intelligence reports the base also trains and transports foreign mercenaries to the war in Ukraine. Shortly after the incident, the Assad regime acknowledged the death of two officers in a drone attack on the Kuweires military airport, attributing the attack to an unknown source. Meanwhile, reports indicate a clear demarcation of influence between Russians and Iranians in Aleppo, with Iran controlling poorer districts and Russia dominating wealthier areas, highlighting their strategic footholds in Syria.
Assad’s Imbecilic Statement Following Hezbollah Missile Misfire
More than three days after the Hezbollah missile misfire killed 12 children in Majdal Shams, and after being summoned by Putin to Moscow, Assad made a ludicrous statement denying Hezbollah’s responsibility. Despite global acknowledgment of Hezbollah’s role, Assad accused Israel of fabricating pretexts to expand its aggression, holding it fully responsible for the escalating dangerous situation in the region. This statement contradicts confirmed reports from both Israeli and American authorities, showcasing Assad’s continued deflection and misinformation.
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★ YEMEN
Houthis Pledge Support for Iranian Retaliation Against Israel
The Houthi militia in Yemen vowed to assist Iran in a potential retaliatory strike against Israel following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Houthi leader Mahdi Al-Mashat expressed solidarity with Iran and its proxies, declaring a three-day mourning period. The Houthis, who have previously targeted ships in the Red Sea and launched attacks on Israel, reiterated their support for the “resistance axis” against Zionist and American enemies.
July Red Sea Recap: Houthis Intensify Attacks on Commercial Vessels
A Navy Times report highlights the escalation of Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea in July. The Houthis targeted the MT Bentley I and the MT Chios Lion, causing significant disruptions. U.S. forces destroyed 31 air drones, 16 surface drones, and four radar sites in response. The attacks have led to a 90 percent reduction in container shipping through the Red Sea, affecting the interests of 65 countries. Theodore Roosevelt has replaced Eisenhower in ongoing operations.
U.S. Treasury Sanctions Houthi Weapons Procurement Networks Globally
The U.S. Treasury sanctioned four companies and two individuals involved in Houthi weapons procurement in Hong Kong and Yemen. The entities include Al-Shahari United Corporation Ltd. and Yemen Telecommunication Asset Company. The sanctioned individuals are Maher Yahya Muhammad Mutahar al-Kinai and Ahmed Khaled Yahya Al-Shahare. This action aims to disrupt Houthi military procurement and smuggling efforts, cutting off their global supply channels.
Saudi “Masam” Project Destroys Underwater Houthi Missile Near Bab al-Mandab
The Saudi project “Masam” successfully destroyed an unexploded Houthi missile found underwater off the coast of Bab al-Mandab. The operation, conducted at a depth of nine meters, marks the project’s first such underwater mission. The missile posed a significant threat to local fishermen and divers. Prompted by a fisherman’s report, the team ensured all safety measures were taken to protect the marine environment and local property. Additionally, Masam destroyed 26 explosive items, including tank mines and various shells, in the Al-Makha region.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkey Condemns Assassination of Hamas Leader Haniyeh as Despicable
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has denounced the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran as a “despicable attack,” accusing Israel of attempting to escalate regional conflict beyond Gaza. Erdoğan criticized the assassination as a deliberate act to undermine Palestinian resistance and disrupt their struggle for justice. This condemnation follows Turkey’s long standing support for Hamas and Erdoğan’s recent meeting with Haniyeh in Istanbul.
Israel Calls for NATO to Reconsider Turkey’s Membership
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, has urged NATO to reconsider Turkey’s membership following remarks by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, which implied potential military action against Israel. Erdoğan’s statements compared the situation to Turkey’s past interventions in Karabakh and Libya. In response, the Israeli foreign ministry has instructed its diplomats to seek condemnation from NATO member states and discuss the implications for Turkey’s alliance status. Dutch politician Geert Wilders also called for Turkey’s removal from NATO, arguing that Erdoğan’s actions are inconsistent with the alliance’s principles.
Erdoğan Criticizes Paris Olympics Ceremony as Immoral
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan opted out of the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony, citing concerns from his granddaughter about an “LGBT show.” Erdoğan condemned the ceremony as immoral, accusing it of degrading humanity and insulting both Christian and general values. Despite an invitation from French Prime Minister Emmanuel Macron, Erdoğan refused to attend, condemning Western LGBT advocacy and Turkish opposition parties for not opposing the event. The ceremony’s artistic director clarified that the depiction was inspired by a pagan feast, not “The Last Supper.”
Maya Goshen Defeats Turkey’s Fidan Ögel in Olympic Judo
Israeli judoka Maya Goshen won her opening match in the women’s under-70kg category at the 2024 Paris Olympics, defeating Turkey’s Fidan Ögel. Initially, Ögel walked off the mat without shaking hands, but the athletes later exchanged handshakes post-match. This victory marks Goshen’s Olympic debut, and she will next face France’s Marie-Ève Gahié in the round of 16.
Turkey’s Trade Deficit Rises by 10.8 Percent in June
Turkey’s foreign trade deficit increased by 10.8 percent year-on-year to $5.8 billion in June, despite a 4.4 percent drop in imports. Imports totaled $24.9 billion, while exports fell by 8.3 percent to $19.4 billion. The export-to-import coverage ratio decreased from 79.7 percent in June 2023 to 76.4 percent. For January-June 2024, exports rose by 2.6 percent to $126 billion, and imports declined by 8.4 percent to $168.8 billion. Germany, the US, and the UK were Turkey’s top export partners, while China, Russia, and Germany led in imports.
Abbas to Visit Turkey During Regional Tensions and Recent Assassination
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas will travel to Turkey on August 14-15, as announced by Ankara. This visit follows the assassination of Hamas’s political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, which Hamas has attributed to Israel, potentially escalating regional tensions. Abbas will meet with President Erdogan and address the Turkish Parliament. Erdogan’s invitation to Abbas appears to be a response to the recent U.S. welcome of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which Ankara criticized. Abbas will also visit Moscow on August 18.
GCC-Turkey Trade Pact Promises Unprecedented $2.4 Trillion Economic Boost
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Turkey are exploring a trade agreement that could unlock an unprecedented $2.4 trillion economic opportunity. This prospective deal aims to enhance bilateral trade and investment, leveraging both regions’ strategic economic strengths. The agreement is anticipated to strengthen ties across key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and finance, potentially driving substantial economic growth and collaboration between the GCC and Turkey.
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★ IRAQ
U.S. Airstrike in Iraq; Iraqi Militias End Ceasefire
Iraqi militias launched at least three attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq last week, targeting sites in Erbil and Anbar provinces with drones. In response, the U.S. conducted a defensive airstrike in Musayib, Iraq, killing four militants from the Iran-aligned Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and injuring four others. The PMF, integral to escalating regional conflicts, condemned the strike as a “heinous crime.” Following this, Iraqi militias, including the Al-Nujaba Movement, declared the end of their ceasefire with U.S. forces, vowing retaliation. This escalation highlights rising tensions between U.S. forces and Iranian-backed groups in Iraq.
50,000 Pakistanis Missing in Iraq: Issue of Illegal Foreign Employment
Reports have circulated about 50,000 Pakistanis allegedly going missing in Iraq, a claim that has sparked controversy. The issue has highlighted how tourists and visitors to Iraq’s religious sites might exploit their trips to seek unauthorized employment. Many foreigners, including Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, Iranians, and Syrians, flock to Iraq for religious or tourist reasons and then work illegally. Official figures indicate that around 800,000 foreigners are working in Iraq without legal permits. Iraqi authorities have recently intensified efforts to address this problem by issuing temporary work permits to foreign workers. Additionally, security forces have arrested 69 foreigners in Baghdad for illegal employment.
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★ EGYPT & NORTH AFRICA
Egypt and Iran Advance Diplomatic Relations Through High-Level Meeting
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran, marking a step toward normalizing relations. The discussions centered on addressing long-standing tensions and exploring new cooperation opportunities. Both countries stressed mutual respect and constructive engagement to tackle regional issues. This meeting underscores Egypt’s efforts to rebuild ties with Iran as the U.S. continues to reduce its involvement in the region.
Egypt Responds After Assassination of Ismail Haniyeh and Fouad Shukr
The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Israel’s recent escalations and warned against the repercussions of assassination policies and violations of state sovereignty. In a statement, Egypt highlighted the risk of igniting further conflict in the region and called on the UN Security Council and international powers to intervene. The ministry emphasized that these actions, coinciding with stalled ceasefire negotiations in Gaza, indicate a lack of Israeli political will for peace and undermine Egypt’s efforts to end the Gaza conflict and alleviate Palestinian suffering.
IMF Releases $820 Million to Egypt Following Signs of Economic Improvement
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has authorized the release of $820 million to Egypt, acknowledging significant economic improvements under the Extended Fund Facility arrangement. The IMF’s assessment highlights progress in tackling inflation and foreign currency shortages, while also emphasizing the need for further structural reforms, especially regarding state-owned enterprises. This funding aims to bolster Egypt’s ongoing economic stabilization efforts and support sustainable growth in a challenging environment.
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★ THE GULF
Qatari Prime Minister Discusses Haniyeh Assassination with Global Leaders
Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani held separate talks with the foreign ministers of the UK, Egypt, and the U.S. regarding the implications of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh’s assassination in Tehran. Discussions with British officials in Doha focused on Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories. With Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aty, talks included Gaza’s situation and humanitarian aid access. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the need for a Gaza ceasefire during a phone call, stressing ongoing efforts for peace.
Saudi GDP Continues to Shrink Amid OPEC+ Production Cuts
Saudi Arabia’s GDP contracted for the fourth consecutive quarter, with a 0.4% year-on-year decline from April to June 2024, according to preliminary data from the General Authority for Statistics. This decrease is primarily attributed to an 8.5% contraction in the oil sector, reflecting the ongoing impact of OPEC+ production cuts.
Qatar Reports Budget Surplus in Q2 2024
Qatar’s Ministry of Finance announced a budget surplus of 2.6 billion riyals ($713.31 million) for the second quarter of 2024. Total public expenditure reached 57.3 billion riyals, while total revenue amounted to 59.9 billion riyals. The IMF noted that Qatar’s economic growth is expected to normalize in the near term after the boost from hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
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📌 In case you missed it,
📰 Iran’s Mullah Regime Controls Middle East National Security
📰 Facade Inauguration, Uranium Enrichment, Proxy Terrorism Secure Iran’s Top Terror Financier Role
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