★ ISRAEL
Israel Balances U.S. and Russia Ties to Counter Iran
President-elect Donald Trump intends to revive his “maximum pressure” policy on Iran, focusing on strict sanctions to curb Tehran’s nuclear and regional activities. In three recent calls, Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed shared concerns over the “Iranian threat,” aligning on a coordinated approach. Meanwhile, Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer visited Russia last week to support ceasefire efforts with Hezbollah, leveraging Russia’s influence in Syria to prevent Hezbollah’s rearming. Dermer then traveled to Washington for further talks with U.S. officials. U.S. Special Envoy Amos Hochstein is also expected in Lebanon to advance ceasefire negotiations, despite ongoing obstacles to progress.
Russia Establishes New Observation Post in Golan Heights
Russia raised its flag at a new observation post near the disengagement zone between Syrian and Israeli forces in the occupied Golan Heights, southern Syria. General Alexander Rodionov, deputy commander of Russian forces in Syria, stated to Sputnik that the post was inaugurated on Saturday in line with agreements to preserve the UN-monitored buffer zone. This marks the eighth observation point set up by Russia to ensure operational success and protect Syrian territory from violations.
Netanyahu to Dispatch New Envoy to US Once Trump Returns to the White House
Prime Minister Netanyahu will appoint Yechiel Leiter as Israel’s next ambassador to the US once Donald Trump returns to office. Current ambassador Michael Herzog’s term will be extended until January 20, effectively denying him another year in the role. Netanyahu thanked Herzog for his contributions during a challenging period. The announcement came after Netanyahu and Trump discussed security matters and the Iranian threat following Trump’s victory.
Maccabi Tel Aviv Fans Targeted in Amsterdam Stabbings, Car Ramming After Soccer Match
After Maccabi Tel Aviv’s match in Amsterdam, fans were attacked, injuring at least 10 Israelis, with two still unaccounted for. Videos show fans being chased and assaulted in multiple city locations. Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered evacuation flights for Israelis. Dutch police intervened, escorting victims and arresting 30 attackers. Violent clashes and attempts to break into hotels were reported, as the police struggled to control the violence across the city.
Spanish Port Denies Entry to Danish Ship, Alleging Arms Shipment to Israel
A Maersk container ship was denied entry to Spain’s Algeciras port, with officials claiming it carried arms to Israel. Maersk denied the allegation, stating the cargo contained no military weapons. Spain, opposing arms exports to Israel and supporting Palestinian state recognition, has refused docking ships carrying arms. The Maersk Denver was rerouted to Tangier and is now heading to Oman, avoiding Spain’s restrictions on arms shipments to Israel.
Gideon Sa’ar Seeks Stronger Kurdish Ties
Incoming Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar aims to strengthen Israel’s alliances with Kurdish and Druze communities, describing Kurds as “natural allies” against Iranian and Turkish oppression.
★ HAMAS
Al-Qassam Executes 15 Israeli Soldiers at Zero Distance
Al-Qassam Brigades killed 15 Israeli soldiers in a close-range attack using RPGs, small arms, and hand grenades in Gaza, reports Al Jazeera. The group also targeted two military vehicles with “Yassin 105” and “Tandem” missiles, and a bulldozer with a bomb.
D9 Bulldozer Shipment Stalled by US Embargo, Leaving IDF Soldiers Exposed
The U.S. arms embargo on Israel is delaying the shipment of 134 D9 bulldozers, crucial for IDF operations in Gaza and Lebanon. Israel has already paid for the bulldozers, but they await export approval. The delay follows internal U.S. protests against their use in Gaza. Many existing bulldozers need maintenance, leaving the IDF exposed during ongoing ground operations. Despite this, the U.S. continues supporting Israel through other military deals, including APC acquisitions.
41 Killed, Including 13 Children, in Two Israeli Airstrikes on Gaza
Two Israeli airstrikes on northern Gaza killed at least 41 people, including 13 children. The first strike targeted a house in Jabalia, killing 25, while the second hit Gaza City’s Sabra neighborhood, killing five. The death toll in Jabalia rose to 36, with many trapped under debris. Since October 2023, the ongoing Gaza conflict has claimed over 43,600 lives and left more than 103,000 injured.
UN Report: Nearly 70% of Gaza Deaths Over 6 Months Are Women, Children
The UN Human Rights Commission reported that 70% of identified Gaza war deaths were women and children, condemning violations of international law. The data, covering the first seven months of Israel’s war against Hamas, showed 8,119 deaths, far lower than the 43,000 reported by Palestinian health authorities. Israel asserts its aim is to eliminate Hamas, while Hamas denies using civilians as shields. The report highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
IDF Reports 2,000 Hamas Fighters Killed, Captured in Jabalia
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi confirmed that 1,000 Hamas terrorists were killed and 1,000 captured in Jabalia. The operation, launched in early October, severely weakened Hamas. Halevi emphasized the IDF’s growing strength and determination, sending a strong message to the Middle East. The IDF aims to ensure long-term security for Israeli communities and bring home 101 hostages held by Hamas, with operations continuing intensively across Gaza.
Report: Possible Hamas Leadership Destinations If Qatar Expels Them
Arab media reported that if Qatar expels Hamas leadership, they could relocate to Turkiye, Iran, or Lebanon. However, Hamas sources deny any such request, attributing reports to U.S. pressure for an agreement before President Biden’s administration transition. They stated that U.S. pressure on Qatar remains minimal, and its effect could harm diplomatic relations. Additionally, Qatar seeks to end its mediation role with Hamas and Israel, after unsuccessful efforts to resolve the conflict.
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★ SYRIA
Rafiq Hariri’s Convicted Hezbollah Assassin Killed by Israel in Syria
Salim Ayyash, a Hezbollah commander convicted in absentia for the 2005 assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri, was reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike targeting the Syrian city of Qusayr. Ayyash, who was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Special Tribunal for Lebanon in 2020, was linked to the car bombing that killed Hariri and 21 others.
IAF Strikes Hezbollah Stronghold in Damascus, Killing Nine
For the second time in a week, the Israeli Air Force struck a six-story building in Sayyida Zeinab, southern Damascus, known as a Hezbollah stronghold. The targeted building housed Lebanese families and Hezbollah members. Nine people were killed, including five Lebanese and four Syrians. The identities are still unknown. The strike followed recent Israeli raids on Syria, including strikes on a Syrian army radar site in Sweida.
Israel Expands Strikes on Hezbollah Sites in Idlib, Aleppo
On November 9, Israeli airstrikes for the first time targeted Hezbollah and Iranian militia sites near Aleppo and Idlib, hitting Al-Safira’s Scientific Research Center and Hezbollah positions in Saraqib. Seven were killed, with around 15 injured. The Assad regime retaliated against opposition areas with artillery, hitting a health center in Sarmin, Idlib. Israeli jets reportedly crossed Al-Tanf airspace, with Israel also intercepting a drone near the Golan Heights. This marks part of an intensified Israeli campaign, totaling 146 strikes in Syria in 2024.
Iran, Turkiye, and Russia Expedite Reaching a Syria Deal
The 22nd international meeting on Syria, set for November 11-12 in Astana, Kazakhstan, aims to accelerate diplomatic efforts by Iran, Turkiye, and Russia to reach a lasting agreement on Syria’s future. Delegations will hold bilateral and tripartite consultations on the first day, followed by broader discussions and a general session on the second. The talks will also focus on bridging positions between Damascus and Ankara.
RFK’s Statement to Tucker Carlson on Syria Triggers Widespread Concern
After Robert F. Kennedy revealed to journalist Tucker Carlson that he overheard President-elect Trump discussing a potential U.S. troop withdrawal from Syria with a military advisor, the story quickly went viral in regional media, prompting extensive analysis. Former U.S. Ambassador James Jeffrey warned against such a move, cautioning it could bolster Iranian and Assad influence and destabilize the region. “This would be a grave mistake, strengthening Iran’s reach and creating a vacuum that would harm our partners, including Turkey,” he told Middle East Eye. The Syrian Democratic Forces, meanwhile, maintain cooperative ties with both the U.S. and Russia, anticipating continued collaboration in countering ISIS.
U.S.-Led Coalition Destroys Iranian Headquarters in Syria’s Northeast
On Sunday evening, U.S.-led coalition forces bombed Iranian-linked militia positions in eastern Deir Ezzor, Syria, following an attack on a coalition base in the Al-Omar oil field by Iranian militias. Local sources reported that the coalition launched four rockets at militia headquarters in Mahkan, along the Euphrates’ western bank. The initial strike by Iranian militias on the coalition base reportedly caused no material damage. In response, coalition forces mobilized, deploying helicopters and reconnaissance aircraft, while flares illuminated the Al-Omar base amidst heightened security activity.
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★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
IDF Claims Hezbollah Missile Arsenal Severely Depleted Since Operations Began
The IDF reported that Hezbollah has suffered significant losses, with over 2,550 killed and 5,000 wounded. Hezbollah’s rocket arsenal has been severely reduced, with 80% of rockets within 40 kilometers destroyed, leaving fewer than 1,000 medium-range rockets and 10,000 short-range rockets operational. Their precision-guided missile stockpile has dropped to fewer than 100. The IDF believes Hezbollah’s rocket-launch capacity is significantly impaired due to airstrikes, command losses, and disrupted communication methods.
Hezbollah Strikes Israeli Forces, Israel Retaliates with Airstrikes
Hezbollah launched missiles targeting Israeli forces and settlements in southern Lebanon, including Even Menachem and Kiryat Shmona, with clashes near Aytaroun causing casualties. Israel intercepted missiles aimed at the Galilee and responded with airstrikes on Lebanese villages such as Tyre and Bint Jbeil, resulting in 20 deaths, including three children. Significant damage was reported in the region, including an Israeli strike on a dining hall in Kiryat Shmona.
Hezbollah Rockets Devastate Metula’s Infrastructure
Hezbollah’s rocket attacks have destroyed over 60% of buildings in Metula, Israel’s northernmost town near the Lebanon border. Since October 2023, relentless bombardment has displaced Metula’s 2,000 residents, forcing regional council head David Azoulai to manage operations from a bunker.
Hezbollah Launches Over 20 Operations, Targets Major Cities and Military Sites
Hezbollah executed more than 20 operations, including missile strikes on key military sites such as the Ain Khuzlout base and the Zofolon military base. The group also targeted Israeli settlements in the Galilee and fired rockets at cities including Haifa, Acre, and Tiberias. Hezbollah downed an Israeli Hermes 450 drone in southern Lebanon. In response, Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon killed at least seven people and targeted Hezbollah infrastructure, including launch pads near Shabaa and Beirut’s Dahieh quarter.
Hezbollah Fires Dozens of Rockets at Israel as IDF Pounds Lebanon, Syria Targets
Hezbollah fired over 40 rockets at Israel, with some hitting the Galilee and others intercepted. In retaliation, the IDF conducted airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon and Syria, including command centers and weapons facilities. The IDF’s Alpinist Unit uncovered Hezbollah tunnels and weapon depots in Lebanon. Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon killed seven people, including two children. Meanwhile, several soldiers were wounded in an Israeli airstrike in Syria’s Aleppo and Idlib regions.
Israeli Army Destroys Homes in Three Lebanese Border Towns, Warns Residents
The Israeli army detonated homes in Yaron, Aytaroun, and Maroun al-Ras in southern Lebanon, part of ongoing military operations. Airstrikes also targeted Kafr Tebnit, Kafr Sir, and areas between al-Majdal and al-Shahabiya. The Israeli military warned residents against returning to their homes or olive fields, citing the dangerous combat zones. Additionally, Israel accused Hezbollah of using ambulances to transport militants and weapons, pledging action against any vehicle involved.
Heavy Rocket Fire Targets Acre, Haifa, and Surrounding Areas
Israel was targeted by a rocket barrage early Friday, with 10 projectiles hitting Acre, Haifa, and the Jezreel Valley. No injuries were reported. The attack followed an earlier incident where the IDF tracked a hostile aircraft in the Haifa region, which later ended without further details. Separately, the IDF intercepted a missile from Yemen, triggering sirens across the Arava Desert, Dead Sea area, and Dimona.
IDF Discovers Hezbollah Terror Training Center Near UNIFIL Post
IDF forces in Lebanon discovered a Hezbollah training center just 200 meters from a UNIFIL post during a raid. The center stored weapons, missile launchers aimed at Israeli communities, and instructional materials. The IDF seized documents and maps detailing Hezbollah’s operations and IDF equipment. All weapons were confiscated, and the facility was dismantled. UNIFIL condemned the destruction of part of its structure by IDF forces in Ras Naqoura, despite Israel’s denial of activity inside the UNIFIL base.
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★ YEMEN
U.S.-British Strikes Hit Houthi Targets After Missile Fired Toward Israel
The Pentagon reported that U.S. warplanes launched multiple strikes on Saturday night targeting advanced weapons storage facilities in Yemen linked to Iran-backed Houthi forces. In retaliation, the Houthis fired a missile toward Israel on Monday, with falling fragments igniting fires in the Beit Shemesh area, west of Jerusalem. Fire crews worked to contain the blazes and conducted surveys to ensure no further damage. Later on Monday, U.S. and British airstrikes targeted Houthi positions in Yemen’s Saada and Amran governorates, with Houthi sources reporting seven strikes on Amran and two on Saada.
Houthis Claim Downing of U.S. MQ-9 Reaper Drone Over Yemen
Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed to have shot down an American MQ-9 Reaper drone early Friday over Yemen’s al-Jawf province. Video footage showed a flaming aircraft falling and burning debris, which the U.S. military acknowledged and is investigating. The Houthis reportedly used surface-to-air missiles, possibly Iranian-made 358 missiles, capable of downing such aircraft, though Iran denies arming the Houthis. This incident marks one of several MQ-9 drones allegedly downed by the Houthis since their 2014 seizure of northern Yemen.
Houthi Leader Warns Trump of Potential Missile Threats
Houthi leader Mohammed Ali al-Houthi warned President-elect Donald Trump against any escalation involving Yemen, emphasizing that US interests in the region remain under threat from their missiles and drones. Speaking at a rally in Saada for Gaza and Lebanon, al-Houthi reiterated that Yemen’s missile capabilities are intact and capable of targeting US assets. He stressed that any further aggression would only strengthen Yemeni resolve and intensify their operations, echoing leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi’s statement that Trump is familiar with the resilience of the Yemeni people.
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★ IRAN
Tehran Warns Trump: Vengeance for Soleimani Still Awaits
Iranian officials and media reacted sharply to Donald Trump’s re-election, focusing on his role in the 2020 assassination of IRGC commander General Qassem Soleimani. Tehran’s major newspaper, Hamshari, labeled Trump “The Return of the Murderer,” with images of him in prison attire, highlighting his “crimes” against Iran. Former IRGC officer Hossein Kanani Moghaddam stated that “the sword of vengeance” for Soleimani’s death remains over Trump, while IRGC Deputy Commander Ali Fadavi warned that Iran is ready for any confrontation. Regime-affiliated outlets reaffirmed the stance that America remains Iran’s primary adversary, regardless of who leads the U.S.
Iranian President Requests Supreme Leader to Delay Israel Attack
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has reportedly asked Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei to postpone an attack on Israel by two weeks. This request follows messages from the Biden administration to Tehran, indicating that such an attack could hinder efforts to achieve ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon. Additionally, President-elect Donald Trump’s team has conveyed that an attack on Israel might jeopardize ongoing understandings between the incoming U.S. administration and Tehran.
IAEA Director to Visit Tehran for Nuclear Program Discussions
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi is set to visit Iran on Wednesday, initiating talks with Iranian officials the following day. Iranian state media confirmed the visit, aimed at discussing Iran’s nuclear program. Grossi also announced on “X” his planned meetings with Iranian officials, signaling continued international engagement with Tehran on nuclear issues. This visit underscores the IAEA’s ongoing efforts to monitor and assess Iran’s nuclear activities in alignment with global non-proliferation objectives.
Iran-Turkiye Non-Oil Trade Reaches $9.9 Billion in Seven Months
Iran’s former Customs Administration head announced that non-oil trade between Iran and Turkiye reached $9.9 billion in the first seven months of the Iranian year (March 20 – October 21). Mohammad Rezvani-Far noted Turkiye ranked as Iran’s second-largest trading partner among its neighbors during this period. Earlier reports indicated that Iran exported $2.4 billion in non-oil goods to Turkiye in the first half of the Iranian year (March 20 – September 22). Turkiye was the fourth-largest destination for Iranian exports among neighboring countries during these six months.
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★ IRAQ
Iraqi Factions Launch Two Drone Attacks on Northern Israel
One day after the Iraqi Prime Minister congratulated President-elect Trump on his victory and requested U.S. intervention to end Middle Eastern conflicts, the Iran-affiliated “Islamic Resistance in Iraq” launched two drone strikes on northern Israel. These strikes targeted a “vital site” and a “military site” on Saturday. The Israeli military reported intercepting a suspicious aerial object from the east before it breached Israeli airspace. No further information was disclosed regarding the exact sites or possible casualties. Meanwhile, the Iraqi Foreign Minister announced receiving assurances from Iran not to use its territory for any attacks on Israel. In a televised interview, Hussein stated that Israel used Iraqi airspace for its attack on Iran and confirmed Iran’s commitment to refrain from retaliating from Iraq. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani contacted Iranian officials, who reinforced this commitment. However, Iraqi political analyst Ihsan Al-Shammari expressed doubt over Iran’s adherence to such promises, noting that Tehran has previously stated that Iraqi armed factions operate independently.
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★ TURKIYE
Erdogan Urges Trump to Halt Kurdish Support, Reinforces Northern Syria Plans
Turkish President Erdogan urged President-elect Trump to cease U.S. support for Syria’s Kurdish YPG forces, which Turkiye associates with the PKK. During their conversation, Erdogan emphasized that continued U.S. backing for the YPG, part of the Syrian Democratic Forces, should stop. Concurrently, Erdogan reaffirmed Turkiye’s strategy to secure a 30-40 kilometer buffer zone along its southern border, aimed at blocking terrorist threats. Speaking at Atatürk’s memorial, he highlighted Turkiye’s determination to disrupt militant networks through cross-border operations like Euphrates Shield and Olive Branch, signaling Turkiye’s ongoing commitment to establishing a secured zone in northern Syria.
Turkish-Russian Meetings Aim to Ease Tensions in Putin-Erdogan Region
Turkiye and Russia held talks in Idlib before the 22nd round of the Astana peace process in Kazakhstan. The focus was on Syria’s humanitarian situation, confidence-building, and reconstruction efforts. Despite these discussions, Syrian forces, supported by Russia, continued attacks on opposition-controlled areas in Idlib. The Astana talks are expected to address these issues and explore potential normalization of relations between Turkiye and Syria, with Russia’s support.
World Bank in Talks to Help Finance $28 Billion Turkish Energy Upgrade
The World Bank is negotiating with Türkiye to finance a $28 billion upgrade to its energy transmission system. Discussions involve Turkiye’s Ministry of Energy and aim to expand beyond the $35 billion already allocated through 2028. Recently, Türkiye and the World Bank signed a $1.9 billion agreement for renewable energy, flood management, climate adaptation, and export sector support, enhancing Turkiye’s infrastructure and sustainability efforts.
Turkiye Starts Oil and Gas Exploration in Black Sea Waters
Turkiye began oil and gas exploration in the Black Sea on November 9, 2024, using the Abdulhamid Khan vessel. The drilling at the “Amasra 4” well is part of a month-long campaign targeting rich hydrocarbon resources. Minister Alparslan Bayraktar aims to reduce energy dependence and expects positive results. Turkiye is also active in global exploration efforts, including in Iraq, Russia, Azerbaijan, and other nations, while expanding energy projects in Libya, Sudan, and Somalia.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Biden’s Final Bid for Ceasefire Puts Qatar in a Predicament
With 71 days remaining before President Trump takes office, the Biden administration has intensified efforts to secure a Gaza ceasefire, pressuring Qatar to cut ties with Hamas leaders following the group’s refusal of recent hostage negotiations. In response, Qatar announced it would temporarily suspend its mediation role, citing frustration with both Hamas and Israel for obstructing progress. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan then urged the international community to pressure Hamas to negotiate, clarifying that the group’s refusal is the main barrier to a ceasefire. While Israel welcomed Qatar’s decision, hoping it would weaken Hamas’s influence, Qatar clarified that its mediation pause aims to encourage genuine negotiation from both sides. U.S. senators additionally called for freezing Hamas assets in Qatar, aligning with broader U.S. goals to curtail the group’s operations. This diplomatic shift now places Egypt in a primary mediator role and positions Qatar in a complex diplomatic balance as it navigates U.S. and regional expectations.
Saudi Officers Killed in Yemen Sparks Saudi-Iran Defense Talks
The Saudi-led coalition reported that a Yemeni soldier under the legitimate government killed two Saudi officers in Sayoun, Yemen. Immediately after, Houthi leadership praised the attack as “heroic” and a symbol of local resentment against what they termed “occupation” forces. Houthi leader Hamid Rizq vowed on X that more such actions may follow. The incident may have prompted the Saudi Armed Forces Chief’s unexpected visit to Tehran on Sunday. Reports indicate that discussions with Iranian Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Mohammad Bagheri focused on “strengthening defense diplomacy.”
Riyadh Summit Targets Israeli Actions in Gaza, Lebanon
Leaders from Arab and Islamic nations convene in Riyadh on Monday, aiming for a unified stance against Israeli actions in Gaza and Lebanon. Directed by King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the summit seeks international support to halt Israeli attacks, protect civilians, and pressure for a two-state solution. The Arab-Islamic Ministerial Committee, actively coordinating with countries worldwide, has engaged with key global players like China, Russia, and France to advocate for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid. The committee calls for unrestricted UN aid access, denounces Israel’s escalation, and urges international bodies to cease arms supplies to Israel. Hamas meanwhile, called on the Arab and Islamic countries meeting in Riyadh to assume their duty and responsibility towards the occupied city of Jerusalem , which is being subjected to a systematic Israeli Judaization campaign, reported Al Jazeera. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian informed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of his absence from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation summit, sending the Iranian vice president instead. Analysts say this absence is due to possible strains between the two countries.
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