★ IRAN
US Deploys 6 B-52, Iran Deploys 400 Missiles
The U.S. has stationed six nuclear-capable B-52 bombers in Qatar, enhancing its regional military presence amid escalating Iran-Israel tensions. Satellite images reveal this deployment, although it’s unconfirmed if these bombers carry nuclear payloads. Alongside this, the U.S. has reinforced Middle Eastern defenses with over 100 troops, THAAD interceptors, and fighter jets in Israel, while F-15E fighters head to Jordan to support allies. Meanwhile, Iran is preparing up to 400 missiles, potentially launched from Iraq and Syria, aiming to target Israeli air defenses. These missiles may include advanced models like the Khoramshahr-4 and Fattah, supported by drones from Iran’s regular military and the IRGC. U.S. naval assets, including the USS Abraham Lincoln, remain on alert in the Red Sea and Mediterranean, with Washington warning Iran and its allies against escalating hostilities.
Between Economic Collapse And Eminent Change, Iran Remains Defiant
Following Trump’s victory, the Iranian rial fell sharply to 703,000 rials per U.S. dollar, underscoring the immediate economic strain on Iran. Analysts anticipate the new U.S. administration, with former envoy Brian Hook overseeing State Department hiring, may introduce an exceptionally challenging period for Iran that defies traditional forecasting. An Israeli official suggested the U.S. transition might create a strategic window for an Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear sites, while Politico reports hint that Trump’s hardline stance may shape responses to conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and the Middle East. Iran’s Foreign Ministry said it would assess the new U.S. government’s policies, with spokesperson Esmaeili Baghaei urging a review of “wrong policies.” Deputy Revolutionary Guards Commander Ali Fadavi claimed Israel “lacks the power” to confront Iran, warning of retaliation for Israel’s recent attack on Iran. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei praised Hezbollah’s resilience, asserting Israel’s advanced weaponry cannot weaken the group. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reaffirmed that Trump’s election will not alter Tehran’s focus on strengthening ties with neighboring and Islamic nations over engagement with the U.S. Meanwhile, Iranian officials have resumed power cuts due to a gas shortage, forcing citizens to choose between electricity or air pollution. With gas supplies tight, authorities are turning to mazut fuel in power plants, which worsens air quality. Without it, blackouts are unavoidable, creating a “choice” between breathing clean air or enjoying basic electricity.
Iran Sentences Four to Death for Spying for Israel
An Iranian revolutionary court has sentenced four individuals to death for allegedly spying for Israel. Three of the accused are charged with assisting Israel’s Mossad by facilitating the transfer of equipment used in the 2020 assassination of Iranian nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh. The fourth individual was sentenced in a separate espionage case.
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★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
IDF Uncovers and Destroys Hezbollah Bunker in Southern Lebanon
IDF troops uncovered a 70-meter underground Hezbollah bunker in southern Lebanon, containing fortified rooms, ammunition, and supplies. Described as “carved inside a stone,” the bunker was hidden in dense terrain. The IDF destroyed the structure and confiscated the weapons, impacting Hezbollah’s logistical operations.
IAF Targets Hezbollah Weapons Facility in Syria Near Lebanese Border
The Israel Air Force struck a Hezbollah munitions facility in Al Qusayr, Syria, aimed at curbing weapons transfers into Lebanon. Supported by the Syrian regime, Hezbollah’s expanded operations in civilian areas threaten regional security.
Iran Escalates Drone Threats Targeting Israel’s Masada
Two drones were intercepted over Israel’s Masada National Park and near Metulla on the Lebanese border, signaling Iran’s intensifying pressure through Iraqi militias. Israeli intelligence has warned of possible drone and missile attacks from Iraq, potentially aligning with the U.S. presidential election.
Hezbollah Targets Trump Heights Settlement in Golan Heights After Election
Following the U.S. election, Hezbollah launched rockets at Trump Heights, a Golan Heights settlement named to honor President Donald Trump’s recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the territory. The attack underscores escalating regional tensions and ongoing conflicts along Israel’s northern borders. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former U.S. Ambassador David Friedman attended the settlement’s inauguration, symbolizing strong U.S.-Israel relations amid persistent threats from Hezbollah.
IAF Targets Hezbollah Infrastructure in Beirut’s Dahiyeh Suburbs
The Israel Air Force struck Hezbollah weapons caches and command centers in Beirut’s Dahiyeh suburbs, based on precise intelligence. The IDF implemented measures to minimize civilian harm, issuing evacuation warnings before the strikes. Hezbollah-affiliated media reported multiple buildings were targeted, highlighting escalating tensions in the region. Residents were advised to evacuate to ensure their safety due to proximity to Hezbollah facilities.
Hezbollah’s New Leader Demands End to Aggression for Negotiations
Hezbollah’s new leader Naim Qassem stated negotiations with Israel cannot occur until the country ceases its military actions in Lebanon. He emphasized the war will only end when Israel stops its aggression. Qassem indicated Hezbollah’s willingness to engage in indirect talks mediated by Nabih Berri, contingent upon protecting Lebanese sovereignty. He confirmed Hezbollah’s preparedness for a prolonged conflict and stated that over 120 rockets were fired from Lebanon into central Israel, causing damage but no injuries.
Hezbollah Rockets Strike Israel, Killing Teen and Targeting Military Sites
Israeli teenager Sivan Sade was killed by a Hezbollah rocket in northern Israel, part of a barrage of over 150 rockets launched on Wednesday. The strikes targeted areas near Ben Gurion Airport, prompting Israeli fighter jets to retaliate against Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Beirut, hitting command rooms and weapon depots. Hezbollah also announced it successfully targeted six military bases and three sites in northern and central Israel using advanced rockets and drones, including the Tserfin base. This escalation resulted in significant damage and casualties, raising concerns about ongoing conflicts in the region.
IDF Reports Soldier’s Death and Strikes Against Hezbollah in Lebanon
The IDF confirmed that Sgt. Ariel Sosnov, 20, was killed in a Hezbollah rocket attack on northern Israel, making him the 62nd military casualty since October 2023. The attack involved around 50 rockets targeting Avivim, injuring three soldiers. In retaliation, Israel conducted airstrikes on 20 targets in northern Lebanon, including Baalbek, reportedly killing about 60 Hezbollah operatives. The strikes targeted a rocket launcher and weapon storage facilities, highlighting Hezbollah’s use of civilian areas as human shields. Lebanon’s health ministry reports over 3,000 deaths in the conflict, while Israel aims to secure northern areas for displaced residents.
IDF Uncovers Hezbollah Operation in Southern Lebanon During Conflict
Reservists from the Nahal Brigade, part of the 91st Division, engaged in ground operations along Israel’s northern border and in southern Lebanon. These operations resulted in 16 soldiers wounded and five reservists killed, including Captain (res.) Avraham Yosef Goldberg. The brigade eliminated dozens of terrorists, uncovered weapons, and destroyed terror infrastructure. During a raid on a Hezbollah compound, soldiers faced gunfire while evacuating wounded personnel, demonstrating their operational effectiveness against terrorist activities.
Lebanon Approves Recruitment of 1,500 Soldiers
The Lebanese government approved funding to recruit 1,500 new soldiers for the Lebanese Army to enhance military presence along the southern border. This initiative addresses ongoing Israeli hostilities and aims to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned escalating Israeli attacks as crimes against humanity and emphasized the need to halt hostilities. The cabinet also allocated funds for winter heating in shelters housing displaced families affected by the conflict.
Death of Hassan Nasrallah’s Uncle Due to Airstrike in Bazourieh
Lebanese sources reported that Hassan Nasrallah’s uncle, Abu Haidar Nasrallah, was killed in an airstrike targeting his home in Bazourieh. The strike also claimed the lives of his two sons, Abdul Karim and Haidar, along with Haidar’s son. Bazourieh is the birthplace of former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. The National News Agency confirmed one death and several injuries, with all casualties transferred to Tyre Hospital following the attack.
U.S. Embassy Increases Security at Beirut Airport Over Hezbollah
Tehran Times reported that the U.S. Embassy in Beirut has intensified security efforts, including inspections at Beirut International Airport, after rising concerns about Hezbollah’s influence over key Lebanese infrastructure. Military attachés have reportedly assessed the airport for Hezbollah activity, while restrictions have been imposed on Iraqi Airways and Middle East Airlines to control potential arms and personnel movements. These actions follow Hezbollah’s documented tactic of embedding operations in civilian areas, raising risks of escalation near critical sites. The Embassy’s recent precautions align with the U.S. priority of limiting Hezbollah’s reach in Lebanon’s strategic zones, reflecting a renewed vigilance to secure American assets and interests in the region.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Hamas Rejects Egypt’s Ceasefire Proposal, Insisting on Israeli Withdrawal
Hamas rejected Egypt’s 48-hour ceasefire proposal, which included releasing four Israeli hostages in exchange for 100 Palestinian prisoners. Hamas demanded a long-term ceasefire guarantee, which Israel refused. U.S. Secretary of State Blinken acknowledged Hamas’s refusal, while Netanyahu pledged to continue operations until Hamas is dismantled and hostages are recovered, despite diplomatic efforts.
Netanyahu Offers Captors Millions, Safe Passage for Hostage Release
Prime Minister Netanyahu proposed offering millions and safe passage from Gaza for captors who release hostages. The plan, discussed with official Gal Hirsch, aligns with ongoing military operations and humanitarian concerns in Gaza. Egypt’s ceasefire proposal stalled over Hamas’s demand for long-term guarantees.
Gaza Militants Trained in Iran to Manufacture Weapons Locally
A report reveals that Gaza militants trained in Iran received instructions on producing weapons, including Iranian-designed drones and explosives. Documents align with weapons used by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
Netanyahu Dismisses Defense Minister Gallant
Prime Minister Netanyahu fired Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing a “crisis of trust” due to the escalating tensions with Iran. Gallant’s departure follows the IDF’s recent successful strike on Iranian missile facilities, with Foreign Minister Israel Katz nominated as his replacement pending Knesset approval.
IDF Eliminates Four Terrorists in West Bank Clashes
The IDF killed four terrorists during operations in the West Bank on Tuesday. Two terrorists died in Qabatiya after colliding with an IDF vehicle, injuring two soldiers. One deceased, Majdi Hamza Ahmed Shkira, was wanted for organizing terrorism. In a separate incident, an airstrike eliminated two terrorists who had thrown explosives at Israeli forces. The IDF also arrested suspects, seized weapons, and destroyed an explosives lab during these operations.
Al-Qassam: We Ambushed Israeli Forces in Jabalia at Close Range
Al-Qassam Brigades announced their fighters ambushed an Israeli infantry unit of five soldiers using machine guns and explosives in Jabalia. The Al-Quds Brigades targeted an Israeli Merkava tank near al-Yemen al-Saeed Hospital with a powerful explosive device. Previous footage showed Al-Qassam attacking Israeli soldiers and a tank.
IDF Operations Target Terrorists in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon
IDF troops launched operations in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza, eliminating potential terrorists and infrastructure based on intelligence reports. They evacuated civilians to ensure safety during the conflict. In Jabalya, around 50 terrorists were killed, while the Israel Air Force struck over 110 terror sites linked to Hamas and Hezbollah. Approximately 60 Hezbollah terrorists were eliminated in the strikes, particularly in Lebanon’s Baalbek area and north of the Litani River.
Trump and Netanyahu Reunite As Israel Faces New Challenges
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu celebrated Donald Trump’s election victory, which may shift US-Israel relations. Netanyahu fired Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to strengthen his coalition before collaborating with the incoming Trump administration. GOP spokesperson Elizabeth Pipko stated that President-elect Donald Trump wants Israel to swiftly conclude its wars against Hezbollah and Hamas. Despite potential advantages, Netanyahu continues to confront challenges stemming from the October 7 Hamas attack. As Joe Biden completes his presidency, he may adopt a more forceful stance against Iran. Meanwhile, Biden’s dislike for Netanyahu could impact future US-Israel relations significantly.
Israel Signs $5.2 Billion Deal for 25 Advanced F-15IA Fighter Jets
Israel has finalized a $5.2 billion agreement to acquire 25 F-15IA fighter jets, funded by U.S. military aid, with deliveries starting in 2031. These Boeing F-15EX variants will feature advanced weapon systems and Israeli technologies, enhancing the Israeli Air Force’s range and operational capabilities. Since the Gaza conflict escalated on October 7, 2023, Israel has secured nearly $40 billion in military contracts, significantly boosting its air power and strategic defense objectives.
Israel Intercepts Drone Over Dead Sea as Iraqi Factions Claim Attack
Despite Iraq’s assurances against using its territory for attacks, Iraqi factions announced they targeted Israel with drones. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq reported increased operational activity, claiming responsibility for attacking four military targets in Eilat. An Israeli military source confirmed intercepting a drone launched from Iraq over the Dead Sea. Iraqi officials stressed their commitment to avoiding escalations that could lead to war, emphasizing the need for calm to prevent further conflict with Israel.
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★ YEMEN
Houthi Leader Says Trump Will Fail to End Palestinian Issue
Abdul-Malik al-Houthi, leader of Yemen’s Houthis, stated that President-elect Donald Trump will fail in attempts to resolve the Palestinian issue during his second term, just as he did with the “Deal of the Century.” Trump’s re-election, following a victory over Kamala Harris, comes amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. Al-Houthi highlighted Trump’s past pro-Israel actions, such as recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and relocating the U.S. embassy there. He accused U.S. presidents of competing to serve Israeli interests and warned Arab leaders that Trump sees wealthy Arabs as “cash cows” to exploit.
Houthi Alliance with al-Qaeda Includes Drone and Missile Supplies
A UN Security Council expert panel on Yemen revealed that the Houthi group has a significant alliance with al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula and Somalia’s al-Shabaab. This relationship involves security and intelligence collaboration, mutual safe havens, strengthened bases, and coordinated attacks on the internationally recognized Yemeni government. The report, based on confidential sources, highlighted the alarming nature of this strategic cooperation.
UN Report Names Houthi Leader Managing Iranian Arms Smuggling
A UN Security Council expert report identified Major General Mohammed Ahmed Al-Talbi, head of procurement for the Houthi Ministry of Defense, as the key figure in smuggling Iranian weapons to the Houthis. According to confidential sources, Al-Talbi arranged for a Yemeni customs agent to be stationed in Djibouti in 2022 to aid in arms transfers. This led to the agent’s arrest after authorities seized 52 “Dehlavieh” anti-tank missiles at a border crossing with Oman on March 10, 2022.
Houthi Group Generates $180 Million Monthly from Maritime Fees
A UN report disclosed that Yemen’s Houthi group collects around $180 million monthly from maritime shipping agencies for safe passage in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Coordinated with a company tied to a senior Houthi leader, these fees are transferred through banking methods involving trade-based money laundering. The report highlighted that Houthi attacks on commercial vessels have severely impacted Yemen, increasing transport and insurance costs and raising global prices for essential goods. Additionally, the Houthi-enforced ban on crude oil exports has depleted Yemen’s foreign currency reserves and devalued the Yemeni rial.
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★ SYRIA
IDF Captures Iranian Spy Gathering Intelligence in Syria
The IDF reported the arrest of Ali Soleiman al-Assi, an Iranian Revolutionary Guard operative and Syrian citizen from Saida, southern Syria. The nighttime operation was conducted by the Egoz unit and Unit 504 under Division 210’s command. Al-Assi had been collecting intelligence on IDF forces near the border for future terrorist activities. He was under surveillance and is currently being investigated by Israeli security forces.
Assad Regime’s Escalated Shelling Intensifies Displacement in Idlib
The Assad regime’s intensified heavy artillery and drone attacks have sparked a new wave of civilian displacement in Idlib and Aleppo. Civilians, including elderly residents like Bushra Al-Mohammed, have been forced to flee from camps near southern Idlib’s frontlines due to the military escalation. Villages and towns near these lines have seen residents seeking safety in distant camps as regime forces target residential areas and farmland in eastern and southern Idlib and western Aleppo.
Israel Conducts Airstrikes on Hezbollah Intelligence and Weapon Facilities in Syria
The Israeli military confirmed conducting targeted airstrikes on Hezbollah’s intelligence facilities in Damascus and weapon depots in Qusayr, Homs province. The military stated that these actions were a response to Syria’s support for Hezbollah, which involves establishing facilities in civilian areas and putting residents at risk. The strikes in Damascus specifically targeted sites associated with the “intelligence directorate,” a crucial element of Hezbollah’s intelligence operations. In Qusayr, the airstrike resulted in one fatality and three injuries, with Syrian state media “SANA” reporting that nearby residential buildings sustained damage. Additionally, on Monday night, Israeli airstrikes near Sayyidah Zaynab, located south of Damascus, caused material damage, with local reports indicating that the target was a house used by Hezbollah and members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Trump Plans U.S. Troop Withdrawal from Northern Syria
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated that Donald Trump intends to withdraw U.S. troops from northern Syria to avoid potential conflicts with Turkish and Kurdish forces. Speaking with Tucker Carlson, Kennedy recounted Trump illustrating the Middle East map during a discussion and focusing on the 500 U.S. troops stationed at the Syria-Turkey border, who were at risk after a recent bombing. Trump highlighted the presence of 750,000 Turkish troops and 250,000 Syrian troops as significant factors in his decision.
Brussels Conference Fails to Unite Syrian Democratic Forces
The October 25–26 conference in Brussels, intended to unify Syrian democratic forces, was dominated by Kurdish-led bodies, particularly the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), with limited representation from other factions. Critics argue the event reinforced SDF control rather than fostering a diverse Syrian opposition. Despite ongoing regional upheavals, the conference overlooked pressing issues in Syria, including uprisings in Sweida and Idlib, economic decline, and opposition to the Assad regime. Participants hoped for a “democratic pole” representing all Syrians, but the conference missed this opportunity, further fragmenting the opposition.
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★ TURKIYE
Erdogan and Trump Discuss Strengthening Cooperation Between Turkiye and the United States
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a phone call with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to discuss enhancing cooperation between their countries. Erdogan congratulated Trump on his election victory, highlighting the importance of collaboration moving forward. Both leaders committed to strengthening bilateral ties in various sectors, reflecting their mutual interests in regional and global issues. This conversation represents a significant step towards deeper relations under Trump’s new administration.
Erdogan Discusses Bilateral, Regional, and International Issues with Macron
During a meeting in Budapest, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and French President Emmanuel Macron addressed crucial bilateral, regional, and international issues. Erdogan emphasized the importance of deepening trade and economic relations between Turkey and France. He reiterated Turkey’s pursuit of full EU membership and the need to revive stalled negotiations. Additionally, they discussed resolving tensions between Ukraine and Russia, as well as between Israel and Palestine and Israel and Lebanon through peaceful diplomatic solutions.
Washington May Consider Withdrawing Forces from Syria and Iraq After Elections
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced the U.S. may withdraw its forces from Syria and Iraq after the elections. He emphasized that the stability of Syria is vital for Turkey’s national security. Fidan expressed support for dialogue between the Syrian regime and opposition to achieve peace. Following Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election, U.S. troops remain deployed in northeastern Syria against ISIS. The Syrian government insists on the withdrawal of U.S. forces, considering their presence illegal.
Turkiye Showcases “Steel Dome” Air Defense System in France for First Time
Turkiye’s indigenous air defense system, “Siper,” aims to meet long-range air defense needs without foreign reliance. The “Product 2” missile, with a 150-kilometer range, was showcased at Euronaval 2024, alongside “Product 1,” which exceeds 100 kilometers. “Siper Product 2” shares systems with “Product 1” while enhancing effectiveness. Successful tests confirm “Siper” as crucial for Turkey’s defense strategy, improving protection against various aerial threats, with further development of “Siper Product 3” already planned.
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★ IRAQ
Iraqi Leaders React to Trump Victory, Weigh U.S. Relations
Following Trump’s election victory, Iraq’s Shiite militant faction Sayyid al-Shuhada Brigades expressed skepticism, stating that both Trump and Biden represent the same “deep state” goals, pursuing U.S. dominance and resource control. Group leader Abbas al-Zaidi claimed U.S. policy towards Israel heavily shapes its foreign actions. Separately, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani congratulated Trump, emphasizing Iraq’s commitment to mutual respect and cooperation. Despite an outstanding Iraqi arrest warrant for Trump over the 2020 killing of Qassem Soleimani, Iraq’s Foreign Relations Committee highlighted the importance of engagement based on national interests.
Iraq Reduces Oil Production to 3.3 Million Barrels Per Day
Iraq’s Ministry of Oil confirmed its adherence to voluntary oil production cuts under the “OPEC+” agreement. The ministry stated that Iraq has reduced its oil production and exports to 3.3 million barrels per day. This reduction will persist in the coming months to ensure production remains within agreed limits and to compensate for surplus output in past months.
Iran’s Missile Transfers to Iraq Escalate Israeli Retaliation Risk
Iran’s proxies in Iraq have launched over 100 attacks on Israel in the past year, including an October 4 drone strike that killed two Israeli soldiers and injured 24. Intelligence reports now indicate Iran is moving ballistic missiles to Iraq for potential strikes on Israel. This move highlights Tehran’s control over Iraq, using it as a base for its regional operations. As a result, Iraq’s alignment with Iran and hosting of such proxies could expose it to Israeli retaliation.
Iraq Denies Allegations of Iranian Attack Plans on Israel
Iraq’s Council for National Security refuted reports that Iran may use Iraqi land to attack Israel, calling them “false pretexts” to justify aggression. Military spokesperson Yahya Rasool’s statement followed an Oct. 31 Axios report citing Israeli intelligence on potential Iranian operations from Iraq.
Iraq Launches 100 km Concrete Barrier Project on Syrian Border
Iraq’s Ministry of Interior announced a project to install 100 km of concrete barriers along the Syrian border as part of security measures. This initiative complements past efforts like thermal cameras, trenches, and concrete walls to prevent “terrorist” infiltration. The project focuses on fortifying a key section north and south of the Euphrates River in Tarfaoui, western Anbar province.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Gulf States Prepare for Trump’s Second Presidency
With Donald Trump set for a second term as US president, Gulf states are assessing the impact. Members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) swiftly congratulated Trump on his victory, with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman—who shares a strong post-Khashoggi relationship with Trump—among the first to speak to him. Trump’s previous support for the Saudi-led blockade of Qatar and rising Gulf stock markets after his win indicate regional confidence. Analysts are now considering how Trump’s return will shape relations and policies in the region.
Gulf States Send Relief Aid to Lebanon
Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE sent five relief planes to Beirut, carrying essential food and shelter supplies for the Lebanese population. Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the arrival of a Qatari Emiri Air Force plane, part of ongoing cooperation with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
Qatari Emir Ends Parliament Elections, Appoints All 45
Qatar’s Emir Tamim bin Hamad Aal Thani has canceled parliamentary elections and secured full authority to appoint all 45 parliament members, a decision approved in a November 5 referendum. Previously, the constitution required that 30 members be elected by the public, with 15 appointed by the Emir. This marks an end to Qatar’s brief electoral experiment, which critics argue was primarily for international image-building ahead of the 2022 World Cup.
Arab Journalists See Trump’s Victory as Defeat for Iran, Hope for Stability
Following Donald Trump’s re-election, several Arab liberal journalists and writers celebrated on social media, expressing optimism for greater Middle East stability and a reduction in Iranian influence. Bahraini journalist Ahdeya Ahmed Al-Sayed called Trump’s return “a nightmare for terrorist militias” and a step toward stability. Saudi journalist Ghassan Ibrahim echoed this, framing Trump’s win as support for Israel’s stance against Hezbollah. Other voices, like Paris-based Algerian writer Anwar Malek, hoped that Trump’s administration would further pressure Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei and his regional allies. Influencers across the region anticipate increased challenges for Iran’s allies, including the Houthis and Hamas. Amjad Taha, a Bahraini analyst, remarked that “the Middle East can finally breathe,” while UAE-based Loay Al-Shareef called for strengthening the Abraham Accords to enhance regional peace.
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★ EGYPT
Egyptians and President Sisi Welcome Trump’s Victory
Following Trump’s election win, Egyptian social media erupted with celebration, using hashtags to praise his victory and hoping for stability, particularly in Gaza. Egyptian commentators viewed Trump’s return as a setback for groups like the Muslim Brotherhood. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi congratulated Trump, stressing the importance of strengthening U.S.-Egypt strategic ties and working jointly for regional peace. Sisi expressed optimism for continued collaboration, especially amid global challenges.
Egypt to Pay $1.32 Billion in Dollar Bonds, Seeks New Treasury Funding
Egypt will repay $1.32 billion in dollar bonds this Sunday, honoring debts from 2016 with a 6.75% return. To strengthen its dollar reserves, the Central Bank of Egypt plans to issue $1.6 billion in dollar-denominated treasury bills next week, targeting foreign investors. Recent data show Egypt’s external debt has declined to $152.9 billion by June 2024, down from $168 billion in December 2023. This includes a reduction in long-term debt to $126.8 billion and short-term debt to $26.24 billion. The government’s own debt balances fell to $80.2 billion, reflecting ongoing efforts to manage fiscal stability amidst economic challenges.
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