★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
Heaviest Israeli Strikes Hit Lebanon, Hezbollah Engages in Close-Range Combat
More than 30 Israeli strikes hit Lebanon, focusing on Baalbek, Sour, and nearby villages in the heaviest shelling reported to date (watch this video). i24 News Arabic described ongoing artillery along the Lebanon-Israel border as a major escalation. Airstrikes targeted Tyre, Sarifa, and Khiyam, resulting in over 60 fatalities. Concurrently, Hezbollah launched rockets into northern Israel, leading to evacuations and heightened regional tensions. In response, the IDF targeted Hezbollah sites in Tyre, advising residents to evacuate. Images show neighborhoods in Aytaroun leveled, with six buildings in Tyre also demolished, which Israel claims were Hezbollah sites; Hezbollah disputes this, asserting they were residential. Close-range clashes erupted near Tall al-Nahhas, where Hezbollah reports destroying two Israeli vehicles using Kornet missiles. Meanwhile, Israeli forces discovered significant weapons caches, strategic documents, and tunnels linked to Hezbollah’s Radwan Force in Kfar Kila, marking an intense escalation in hostilities.
IDF Reveals Simulations Showing Location To Hezbollah’s Financial Bunker
IDF Spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari revealed graphic images and video simulations showing the bunker’s location, describing it as Hezbollah’s primary financial stash. According to the IDF, this cash was earmarked for Hezbollah’s arms rather than Lebanon’s reconstruction. Al-Sahel Hospital has been evacuated, yet its director, Fadi Alameh, denied the claims and called for a Lebanese army inspection. Hagari urged Lebanon’s government and international bodies to prevent Hezbollah from storing funds under hospitals.
Hezbollah Desertions Threaten Group’s Stability in Lebanon
Hezbollah reportedly faces internal challenges, with fighters abandoning posts in southern Lebanon as Israeli ground operations intensify. Sources indicate that Hezbollah members are refusing orders, moving to Syria with their families to evade confrontation. In response, the group has sent reinforcements to southern Lebanon, but defections have impacted communication, hampering operations on the ground.
Israeli Airstrike Near Nabih Berri Family Member’s Residence
An Israeli airstrike targeted a moving vehicle near the residence of one of Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri’s children in Tarminin, Sour. Analysts interpret the strike as a possible message to Berri, who represents Hezbollah in ongoing negotiations.
==========
★ IRAN
Tehran, Ankara Urge Global Arms Embargo on Israel
Tehran and Ankara have proposed a global arms embargo against Israel, citing alleged Israeli actions in Gaza and Lebanon, according to Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baghaei. Baghaei asserted that Israel’s reported use of foreign-supplied weaponry constitutes aggression, urging other countries to join this initiative. He stated that Iran’s restraint has been misconstrued, adding that Israel’s allies should pressure it to cease hostilities with Iran.
U.S. Warns Iran of Severe Consequences for Further Attacks
The UN Security Council held an emergency session Monday, requested by Iran to address recent Israeli airstrikes on Iranian sites. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield issued a stern warning, stating Iran would face “severe consequences” for any additional attacks on Israel or U.S. forces. She clarified that while Israel targeted areas outside residential zones, the U.S. was not involved. Stressing self-defense, she added that the U.S. opposes further escalation and calls for an end to direct confrontations between Israel and Iran.
“X” Suspends Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei’s Account After Hebrew Post
Social media platform “X” suspended a new account linked to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei after posts in Hebrew. The account was suspended Monday, with a notice stating it violated “X” policies, though specific violations remain unclear. Platform owner Elon Musk’s team has not responded to requests for comment from the Associated Press.
Israel Monitors Internal Iranian Divisions, Issues Warning Against Retaliation
Following intelligence indicating internal Iranian divisions over responding to Saturday’s Israeli attack, Israel issued a new warning, pledging a harsher response to any Iranian retaliation. Recently leaked images reveal damage to critical sites, including sensitive facilities linked to Iran’s nuclear program, suggesting that the impact was greater than Tehran publicly acknowledged.
Netanyahu Vows Continued Strikes to Counter Iran’s Nuclear Threat
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that recent airstrikes on Iran were part of a sustained strategy, declaring further action will follow. Speaking in a closed Likud session, he dismissed assumptions that a single strike suffices, calling the strikes “only the beginning” of Israel’s wartime approach. Addressing the Knesset, Netanyahu accused Iran of seeking a nuclear arsenal aimed at Israel’s destruction, asserting that Iran’s ambitions also pose a global threat. He emphasized his ongoing commitment to peace with Arab nations while reinforcing Israel’s security measures. Israeli Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi noted that Israel showed restraint during recent attacks on Iran. He stated the IDF utilized only some capabilities and remains prepared for various scenarios.
Iran Executes Opposition Activist Jamshid Sharmahd Despite International Outcry
Iran’s judiciary-affiliated Mizan News Agency announced the execution of 69-year-old political activist Jamshid Sharmahd, a German national. Iranian security forces reportedly abducted Sharmahd from Dubai in August 2020, transferring him to Iran, where a Revolutionary Court sentenced him to death on charges of “corruption on earth” due to his opposition activities.
============
★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Report: No Progress On Hostage Deal Until US Elections
CNN reported that talks on a ceasefire and hostage release will not achieve significant progress until the US election results are announced. The latest discussions, which began in Doha, focused on initiating the process rather than a specific hostage agreement. Hamas sources indicated they would propose a comprehensive deal to end the war, including an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, but they oppose any proposals for the deportation of their officials.
Israel Inks $500 Million Defense Deal For Expanded Laser Interception Systems
Israel’s Defense Ministry announced a $500 million deal to enhance the Iron Beam laser interception systems, signed by Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir. This agreement marks a new era in laser defense, with the initial operational capability expected within one year. The deal with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems aims to expedite production and delivery. The Iron Beam system will strengthen Israel’s defense network by intercepting various aerial threats, including rockets and drones.
US Provides $45.5 Million To Support East Jerusalem Hospitals Network
The U.S. government announced a $45.5 million grant to the East Jerusalem Hospitals Network through USAID to enhance essential healthcare services. This funding aims to support tens of thousands of Palestinians and emphasizes the network’s crucial role in providing quality care across the West Bank and Gaza. Since 2014, USAID has contributed $202 million, fulfilling President Biden’s July 2022 commitment. The grant includes debt relief and investments to improve the sustainability of healthcare facilities.
Palestinians Say 100,000 Residents Trapped in Israel’s North Gaza Offensive
Israeli tanks advanced into two northern Gaza towns and a refugee camp, trapping around 100,000 civilians. while airstrikes killed at least 19 people. Humanitarian operations have ceased due to ongoing assaults, displacing residents from shelters. Ceasefire talks have resumed, but Israel maintains military operations will continue until Hamas is eradicated, escalating regional tensions and raising concerns about stability in the Middle East.
IDF Clears Out Hamas Base In Northern Gaza Hospital
The IDF completed a raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital in Jabaliya, identified as a Hamas command center. The operation uncovered weapons, funds, and documents, leading to approximately 60 apprehended terrorists, some linked to the October 7 attacks. Detainees were interrogated by Unit 504 intelligence operatives. An ambulance driver claimed Hamas uses hospitals and ambulances to transport fighters. The IDF will continue operations in Jabaliya, estimating hundreds of Hamas fighters remain active in the area.
Haredi Parties Prioritize Daycare Subsidies Over IDF Draft Bill
The governing coalition’s haredi parties agreed to drop their demand for an IDF draft exemption bill for yeshiva students. Instead, they seek daycare subsidies based solely on the mother’s employment status. United Torah Judaism proposed that subsidies continue even if fathers remain in yeshiva studies. Opposition leaders criticized the proposal as a tactic to evade military service, while legal concerns regarding the bill’s legitimacy persist. Haredi parties prioritize financial support over the draft bill discussions.
===========
★ YEMEN
Houthis Target Three Commercial Ships in Red Sea, Arabian Sea
The Houthi group claimed responsibility for attacks on three commercial ships off Yemen’s coast, ending an 18-day pause in Red Sea incidents. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree stated that drones and missiles struck vessels “SC MONTREAL,” “MAERSK KOWLOON,” and “MOTARO,” with “accurate” hits. The British Navy confirmed an attack on a ship in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, reporting an explosion near the vessel but no casualties.
===========
★ Syria
Iranian-Led Attacks On U.S. Bases In Syria
On October 28, US military bases in Syria, including al-Tanf near the Syria-Jordan-Iraq border and al-Omar oil field in Deir Ezzor, were struck by drone attacks. This follows a previous October 22 rocket assault on the Conoco gas field base, where four rockets hit a radar station. In response, US forces struck seven villages in Deir Ezzor under Syrian control. Growing anti-US sentiment, heightened by US support for Israel, has led to increased attacks on US facilities by Iraqi resistance forces, raising safety concerns for US personnel in the region.
Israeli Air Strikes Close Key Lebanon-Syria Border Crossings
Israeli air strikes have shut down major Lebanon-Syria border crossings, with only three of them now operational along the 375-kilometer border. Recent attacks on the Matraba, Masnaa, and Jousieh crossings have disrupted aid routes and refugee movements. Israel alleges Hezbollah uses these crossings for arms transfers, but aid officials warn that the closures are deepening the humanitarian crisis by blocking essential aid and limiting safe passage for refugees fleeing conflict.
Gideon Sa’ar Warns Assad Regime Over Iranian Arms to Hezbollah
Gideon Sa’ar, a candidate for Israel’s Defense Ministry, warned that Israel might act against Bashar al-Assad’s regime if Syria continues allowing Iranian arms transfers to Hezbollah. Sa’ar, speaking at the “True Middle East” conference, labeled Syria’s role in arming Hezbollah a direct security threat to Israel, cautioning Assad that his regime faces serious risk should such aggression persist. He noted Israel’s missed chance to weaken the Syrian regime during the civil war, which enabled Iran and Hezbollah to strengthen regional influence.
Mazloum Kobani Signals Openness to Political Talks with Turkey
Mazloum Kobani told AFP that the International Coalition has initiated a de-escalation effort, and they are committed to mediation for potential political and military dialogue with Turkey. The YPG, military arm of Syria’s PYD, is a core component of the Syrian Democratic Forces, which Turkey equates with the PKK and has listed Kobani as a most-wanted individual. Kobani denied any PKK member crossings from Syria into Turkey and disassociated from the recent Ankara bombing, attributed by President Erdoğan to PKK operatives from Syria. The bombing killed five Turks, with the attackers reportedly detonating themselves.
===========
★ TURKIYE
Turkey Freezes Yemen’s Al-Ahmar’s $2.7 Billion Assets Under U.S. Pressure
Turkey has begun freezing $2.7 billion in assets controlled by Yemeni politician and businessman Hamid Abdullah Al-Ahmar, a leading figure in Yemen’s Islah Party, linked to the Muslim Brotherhood. This action, focusing on accounts and investments in Ankara, Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir, aligns with intensified U.S. demands urging Turkey to curb terror financing networks, particularly those associated with the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas. Al-Ahmar’s holdings reportedly include $700 million channeled to the global Muslim Brotherhood network, aiming to reinforce the group’s financial resilience despite mounting international constraints.
===========
★ Iraq
Iraqi Islamic Resistance Conducts Drone Strikes on Northern Israel
The Iraqi Islamic Resistance claimed responsibility for a drone attack on a military site in northern Israel on Monday, citing support for Palestinians and Lebanese and condemning Israeli actions against civilians. The group pledged to intensify attacks on Israeli positions. On Sunday, it reported separate drone strikes on strategic sites in Eilat and the occupied Golan Heights. Earlier, on October 4, an Iraqi-launched drone strike on an Israeli base in northern Golan killed two soldiers and injured over 20 others.
Iraq Reassesses U.S. Relations, Files Protest Against Israel with UN
Iraq’s government filed a formal protest with the UN Security Council against Israel and has begun reassessing its U.S. relationship under the 2008 Strategic Framework Agreement. During a meeting led by Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, Iraq’s Coordination Committee stressed advancing U.S. relations toward a broader economic partnership beyond military aspects. The committee reviewed recent Washington talks and outlined future discussions for February on political, security, energy, economic, health, and environmental collaboration. The Foreign Minister emphasized shifting focus from military to comprehensive economic cooperation.
===========
★ GULF NATIONS
Jeddah: Interception of Over 2.4 Million Captagon Pills
The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority thwarted an attempt to smuggle 2,414,489 Captagon pills hidden in a shipment at Jeddah Islamic Port. The pills were discovered during customs procedures. Following the seizure, the authority coordinated with the General Directorate of Drug Control, resulting in the arrest of six individuals connected to the smuggling attempt. The authority reiterated its commitment to monitoring imports and exports while urging the public to report any violations through designated channels.
Saudi Foreign Minister And Iranian Counterpart Discuss Regional Escalation Implications
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi about regional tensions and escalation implications. They reviewed bilateral relations and the impact of escalating conflicts on regional stability. This discussion follows Israeli strikes on Iranian areas, which Saudi Arabia condemned, citing violations of Iranian sovereignty and international law. Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its rejection of these military actions and emphasized the importance of maintaining regional security and stability.
Report: Saudi Arabia To Inject $15 Billion Investment And Transfer Of Tiran And Sanafir Soon
Egypt and Saudi Arabia agreed to expedite the transfer of the Tiran and Sanafir Islands, which was discussed during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit on October 15. An agreement was signed to protect Saudi investments in Egypt. Final contracts for the Ras Banas investment will be signed, with Saudi Arabia injecting $15 billion in one payment. Egypt will notify the United States and Israel to submit the transfer letter to the UN by the end of November.
Qatar’s Trade Surplus in September Declines to $4.86 Billion
Qatar’s trade balance surplus in September reached 17.7 billion Qatari riyals ($4.86 billion), a year-on-year decline of over 10%. Total exports amounted to 27.6 billion riyals ($7.58 billion), down 5.7% from September 2023, while imports rose to approximately 9.9 billion riyals ($2.71 billion), a 4.9% increase. China was the top destination for Qatari exports and imports during this month, highlighting its significant trade relationship with Qatar.
==========
★ EGYPT & AFRICA
Egypt-Algeria Trade Reaches $1.2 Billion as Economic Ties Strengthen
Economic relations between Egypt and Algeria are seeing notable growth, with trade volume reaching $1.2 billion in 2023. This increase reflects expanded collaboration across sectors such as energy, agriculture, and industry, directly boosting bilateral commerce. Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s visit to Egypt aims to discuss further cooperation initiatives and regional issues, reinforcing ties between the two nations.
Egypt’s Chemical Industry Exports Reach $10 Billion in 2023
Sharif Al-Gabaly, head of the African Affairs Committee and Chemical Industries Chamber, reported that investments in Egypt’s chemical sectors have reached $40 billion, with exports totaling $10 billion in 2023. Al-Gabaly shared these figures at today’s African Development Bank roundtable titled “Investments and Trade in Chemicals and Fertilizers,” held in cooperation with the Chemical and Fertilizer Export Council and the Chemical Industries Chamber, alongside multiple partner institutions.
Ethiopia’s Repeated Earthquakes Raise Egyptian Concerns Over GERD Safety
Increasing seismic activity in Ethiopia has heightened Egyptian concerns regarding the safety measures at the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), situated on the Nile’s main tributary. Egyptian experts have urged Addis Ababa to conduct comprehensive geological studies around the dam, noting a significant rise in seismic incidents in Ethiopia in recent years, although currently distant from the dam site. Ethiopia has constructed the dam since 2011 for electricity generation, while Egypt and Sudan call for a “binding legal agreement” governing its filling and operation.
Macron Visits Morocco to Mend Diplomatic Relations, Sign Deals
French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Morocco follows three years of strained diplomatic ties, with Western Sahara central to the dispute. Observers say Macron and King Mohammed VI aim to ease tensions by signing a partnership declaration and multiple economic agreements. Macron’s support for Morocco’s Western Sahara stance aligns with France’s goal of maintaining economic interests in Morocco. In addition, France hopes to secure involvement in Morocco’s rail expansion and a deal to supply 20 military helicopters. Talks may also address the migration issue, after France suspended Moroccan visas in 2021.
==========
