The following events are presented in reverse chronological order, detailing key developments from November 13 to 15, 2024.
★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
Israel Advances in Lebanon; Hezbollah Response Weakens
The Israeli military launched airstrikes on Hezbollah-linked sites in Beirut’s southern suburbs, ordering evacuations in Ghobeiry based on IDF intelligence maps. Simultaneously, Israeli ground forces advanced into southern Lebanon along three axes, clashing with Hezbollah near Shamaa, close to the strategic city of Tyre. In response, Hezbollah fired five rockets at Haifa, Acre, and surrounding areas, with one striking a building in Krayot and injuring a civilian, while Israeli defenses intercepted several others over Haifa Bay.
IDF Launches Unprecedented Air Raids, Targets Senior Hezbollah Leaders
On November 14, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) intensified air and naval operations across Lebanon, launching 106 airstrikes within a 24-hour period primarily targeting Nabatieh and southern towns, resulting in 44 fatalities and 88 injuries. Among the strikes, six targeted Hezbollah-linked areas in Beirut’s southern suburbs, while another hit Aramoun, a location not traditionally associated with Hezbollah. In Beirut’s Dahiyeh district, Israeli jets targeted over 30 Hezbollah sites, including weapons depots and command centers, with a concurrent naval strike on senior Hezbollah commander Ali Barakat, linked to drone and missile threats. The Israeli Defense Forces have targeted over 300 Hezbollah sites across Lebanon within the past week, with 40 strikes concentrated in Beirut, according to Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari on Thursday evening. Hezbollah responded by launching five rockets at Haifa that were intercepted while the rest struck open areas.
Hezbollah Strikes Defense Department, Unveils Fadi6 Ballistic Missile
Hezbollah escalated tensions with an unprecedented Qader2 ballistic missile strike targeting Tel Aviv’s Kiryah Defense Ministry compound, marking a significant escalation on November 13. The group also unveiled its advanced Fadi6 precision missiles, which boast a 225-kilometer range, 140 kg warhead, and composite solid-fuel propulsion for high accuracy. Subsequent attacks totalling 24 operations targeted critical Israeli military sites, including Tel Nof air base, logistics hubs in northern Israel, the Rameem Battalion command post at Honin Barracks, and a logistical base for Israel’s 146th Brigade near Sheikh Danun. The group deployed drones to strike Amos Base, 55 km from Lebanon’s border, and launched rockets toward Galilee, while Israeli forces intercepted two drones heading to Haifa Bay. On ground, Arabic channels are reporting that Hezbollah militants ambushed and killed six Israeli soldiers citing Israeli military reports. Israeli media says the IDF has eliminated 200 fighters and dismantled 140 rocket launchers along with anti-tank missiles, explosives, and command centers, this week.
Washington’s Shadows: Israel Battles to Frame Lebanon’s Ceasefire Talks
An Israeli official dismissed a Washington Post claim that Israel is pursuing a Lebanon ceasefire as a “gift” to President-elect Trump, asserting ongoing talks with the Biden administration aim to secure a sustainable calm by translating military gains against Hezbollah into civilian stability. The Wall Street Journal reported Trump approved a ceasefire plan during a meeting with Israeli Minister Ron Dermer, following a draft submitted by US Ambassador Lisa Johnson to Lebanese Speaker Nabih Berri, a key Hezbollah conduit. While the draft’s details remain undisclosed, Israeli officials hint at conditions like Hezbollah’s disarmament. Sources told Middle East Eye that the Biden plan includes a stronger UN peacekeeping force, the Lebanese army securing Hezbollah’s southern strongholds, and expanded Israeli operational freedom in Lebanon. A former Trump official noted the plan would mirror Syria’s status quo, allowing Israeli strikes against perceived threats while Hezbollah retains control over Lebanon’s government akin to Assad’s hold in Damascus.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Al-Qassam Brigades Lead Coordinated Attacks Across Gaza and Netsarim Axis, Says Al Jazeera
On November 13, the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades released footage of Hamas fighters engaging Israeli forces in Jabalia Camp, northern Gaza. The video shows attacks on Israeli troops near Al-Yemen Al-Saeed Hospital, the destruction of a Merkava tank, and strikes on a maintenance crew with an anti-personnel device. The next day, the group, with support from the Abu Ali Mustafa and Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades, launched attacks on Israeli command centers along the Netsarim axis. Al-Qassam and Jihad Jibril Brigades also fired 107 rockets at Israeli positions, reported Al Jazeera. The Jewish News Syndicate reported that a Gaza-fired rocket struck an open area in Kibbutz Erez, with no injuries reported. Sky News Arabia said that Israeli airstrikes on Gaza Wednesday killed at least 12 Palestinians and injured over 40, including children. The strikes hit Jabalia Camp, Beit Lahiya, Gaza City, Nuseirat Camp, and Rafah. Al Jazeera later reported that strikes destroyed over 20 homes in Jabalia, trapping civilians under rubble, forcing thousands to flee southward. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken meanwhile announced that Israel has achieved its objectives in Gaza and urged an end to the conflict.
Islamic Jihad Shares Video of Russian-Israeli Hostage Troufanov
Palestinian Islamic Jihad released a video of Alexander Troufanov, a Russian-Israeli hostage held in Gaza for 404 days. Troufanov describes severe shortages of food and essentials and urges the Israeli public to advocate for a hostage deal. He was taken during the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack; his mother, grandmother, and girlfriend were later freed in 2023 through Russian intervention and a ceasefire deal.
Judiciary-Government Rift Under Wartime Strain
As Prime Minister Netanyahu faces a December 2 testimony in his corruption trial, Israel’s attorney general has demanded his response to High Court petitions seeking the removal of National Security Minister Ben Gvir, accusing him of unlawful interference in police operations and governance. Simultaneously, Deputy Attorney General Gil Limon alleges senior Netanyahu aide Alon Haliva pressured staff for unauthorized investigation updates, disciplining a security officer for refusing to disclose protected information. Another controversy is the accusation of Maj. Gen. Avi Gil and the Attorney General’s Office against Tzachi Braverman, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s chief of staff, of altering official records to change when Netanyahu was first informed about the October 7 Hamas attack, reportedly to shift blame. Allegations include unauthorized access to sensitive transcripts and a dismissed blackmail claim. Separately, Eli Feldstein, tied to leaking classified military documents, was placed under house arrest. Netanyahu denies any wrongdoing. Coalition leaders denounced any suggestion of declaring Netanyahu incapacitated during the trial as a “coup,” asserting his leadership is indispensable during a multi-front war. Meanwhile, potential communication gaps may exist between Israel’s Defense Minister Katz and IDF Chief Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi. Days after declaring Hezbollah’s defeat, Katz unexpectedly prioritized disarming the militia, pushing it beyond the Litani River, and ensuring residents’ safety—objectives that caught Halevi off guard and were notably absent from earlier official plans. On Thursday, Katz also announced enforcement of 1,000 new drafts to haredi recruits, with 6,000 more in the coming weeks.
Israel Unveils “INS Dragon” Submarine to Enhance Naval Strength
Israel introduced its sixth submarine, “INS Dragon,” at a ceremony in Germany. Built with advanced capabilities, this Dolphin-class vessel, set for 2025 delivery, includes vertical launch systems and can deploy Rafael-made nuclear-capable cruise missiles. At over 70 meters, it strengthens Israel’s operational reach and honors the legacy of the lost “INS Dakar.”
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★ IRAN
Musk’s Meeting with Iran’s UN Envoy Sparks Speculations on U.S.-Iran Relations
Elon Musk reportedly met Iran’s UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani at a confidential location on Monday in an effort to ease the U.S.-Iran tensions, The New York Times reports. Anonymous Iranian sources called the over-hour-long meeting “positive,” though neither Trump’s transition team nor Iran’s UN mission confirmed the encounter. If true, it suggests Trump may prioritize diplomacy over the hardline stance favored by Republicans and Israeli leaders. Just a day prior, Tehran warned Trump against revisiting the “maximum pressure” policy, labeling it a path to “greater failure.” Iranian sources told Sky News Arabia on Wednesday that Tehran has postponed its planned retaliation against Israel. Iran International cited concerns in Tehran after President-elect Donald Trump announced security, intelligence, and defense appointments. Al Jazeera reported a different stance, with IRGC Commander Hossein Salami declaring on Thursday, three days after the alleged Musk-led meeting, that Iran’s response to Israel would be devastating, asserting, “We are the ones who determine the timing and method of response.”
U.S. Court Exempts Iran from $1.68 Billion Payment in 1983 Beirut Bombing
A U.S. appellate court overturned a ruling Wednesday, releasing Iran’s central bank from paying $1.68 billion to families of soldiers killed and injured in the 1983 Beirut Marine barracks bombing. The Manhattan Court of Appeals ruled that the lower court judge should have considered state law issues before ruling against the Central Bank and Clearstream Banking, a Luxembourg-based subsidiary of the German stock exchange. This decision impacts previous compensation expectations tied to the tragic bombing.
Iran Signals Defiance in Nuclear Talks, Warns of Retaliation
Iran has announced its unwillingness to bow to external pressure in nuclear negotiations with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), as Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted that progress depends on equitable dialogue and action from the European Union and E3 nations. Following talks in Tehran, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi reiterated the agency’s commitment to fostering clarity and transparency, stressing that an agreement remains within reach. Simultaneously, Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization warned of swift retaliatory measures against any hostile resolutions, framing the discussions as pivotal to averting further geopolitical tensions and safeguarding its nuclear infrastructure.
Iranian Intelligence Gains Advantage Over Israel
The U.S. charged CIA official Asif Rahman for leaking classified details of Israel’s plans to retaliate against Iran’s missile strikes, including movements of drones and munitions, handing Tehran a critical intelligence advantage. Shortly after, Iranian hackers compounded Israel’s vulnerabilities by exposing the identities of its nuclear scientists and leaking sensitive data, including private emails and photos of senior officials, such as a former Defense Ministry director-general.
Iran Earns $1.16 Billion From Two-Month Oil Surge
Iran’s oil revenue surged as an 8% increase in crude oil and gas condensate production in the third quarter of 2024 likely generated $1.16 billion over the past two months. OPEC data revealed that Iran’s crude production averaged 3.259 million barrels per day in October, with heavy crude prices rising to $74.06 per barrel. Despite a slight dip in daily production from September, Tehran Times highlighted Iran’s pricing resilience in capitalizing on global demand.
Iran’s Attack on Israel Cost Economy $2.3 Billion
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Iranians, stating their recent attack on Israel cost Iran’s economy $2.3 billion, burdening its citizens. He urged them not to lose hope, claiming their regime fears them more than external threats and called for ending hostilities to focus on a brighter future.
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★ SYRIA
Israel Further Erodes Assad’s Air Sovereignty with Precision Strikes
Assad regime media reported on Friday that two new Israeli airstrikes targeted Mazzeh and Kafr Sousa in central Damascus. Syrian opposition sources indicated the strikes hit military-linked residential areas. While Assad media did not disclose the casualty details of more than 20 people killed, reports are expected to emerge through Israeli outlets. These strikes followed intensified Israeli operations on Thursday, which targeted Iran-linked sites in Syria, killing 15 in Damascus. The Thursday strikes hit residential areas in Mazzeh and Qudsaya, both known to host senior leaders of Hezbollah, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, and Islamic Jihad. Israel confirmed the attacks were aimed at Islamic Jihad headquarters and related military installations.
Israeli Strikes in Qusayr Decimate Hezbollah Networks and Nasrallah’s Kin
A new Israeli airstrike struck Qusayr in central Syria near the Lebanon border on Wednesday, damaging bridges and military checkpoints, according to the Assad News Agency (SANA). The raid injured 15 Assad regime forces and targeted routes reportedly used to smuggle weapons to Hezbollah. Critical infrastructure suffered significant damage, leaving roads inoperative. Previous strikes on the same city, specifically the one in which Salim Ayyash in Qusayr, the man convicted in the assassination of Rafik Hariri, killed Hassan Nasrallah’s father and nephew, according to Syria TV. Reports suggest the airstrike killed all three men after a visit by Khamenei’s envoy to a secret location in Qusayr. Social media videos surfaced showing Abdul Karim Nasrallah discussing his deceased son.
U.S. Strikes Target Iran-Backed Groups in Syria After Rocket Attack
U.S. forces conducted strikes in Syria early Wednesday against Iran-backed targets following a rocket attack on American troops at Al-Shaddadi base. CENTCOM confirmed that arms storage and supply facilities were hit with no damage or injuries to U.S. forces. The day prior, similar strikes on nine Iran-linked sites in Syria reportedly killed four Iran-aligned fighters.
Larijani Visit Reinforces Iran’s Hold in Syria
The Iranian Foreign Ministry dismissed reports of military adjustments in Syria, affirming that its advisory presence remains unchanged. Senior advisor Ali Asghar Haji reiterated there are no plans to alter troop levels. On Thursday, Ali Larijani, a senior advisor to Supreme Leader Khamenei, visited Damascus to meet Bashar al-Assad and top officials, signaling Tehran’s commitment to securing supply routes and reinforcing its operational foothold amid intensified Israeli strikes on Iran-linked sites. The Iranian Foreign Ministry confirmed that Iranian military advisors remain deployed as before in Syria.
Israel Strikes Damascus Suburb During Iranian Official’s Visit, Causing Casualties
Israel targeted Damascus’s Al Mazzeh quarter Thursday, causing casualties and damaging two buildings. The airstrike coincided with a visit by an advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader, reportedly on a special mission. Syrian opposition sources confirmed the strike targeted an apartment, with ambulances seen at the scene.
The Turkish Condition for Withdrawal: Syria’s National Army
Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler asserted that Turkiye’s withdrawal from Syria hinges on specific conditions, emphasizing the National Army’s role in Syria’s future stability and unity. He suggested reconciliation between Ankara and Damascus under Erdoğan’s leadership could pave the way for peace.
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★ IRAQ
Iraqi Resistance Targets Strategic Sites in Israel
Early Wednesday, the “Islamic Resistance in Iraq” launched drone strikes on two critical sites in central and northern Israel. Recent strikes hit northern Israel, Eilat, and central areas, with some drones intercepted over Syria.
US Contractor Ordered to Pay $42 Million to Former Abu Ghraib Detainees for Torture Role
A US federal jury awarded $42 million to three Iraqi men tortured at Abu Ghraib prison, holding defense contractor CACI Premier Technology Inc. liable. Filed by the Center for Constitutional Rights in 2008, the lawsuit claims CACI, hired by the US government post-Iraq invasion, provided interrogation services at the facility where detainees were abused.
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★ YEMEN
Houthi Claims Take a Comedic Turn After U.S. Strike
Yemeni sources say a U.S. airstrike on Al-Hafa Camp in Sanaa severely injured Ahmed Nasser, brother of Houthi Defense Minister Mohammed Nasser Al-Atifi on November 11. The injured Ahmed Nasser is the chief of staff of his brother’s ministry and never leaves his sight. The Houthis maintained strict silence on the incident. After the news broke, the Houthis Defense Minister appeared on one of the Houthi channels. In his speech, Al-Atifi declared his group capable of targeting U.S., British, and Israeli naval forces with missiles and drones. His statement came hours after failed Houthi attacks on two U.S. ships confirmed by the Pentagon, which reported no damage. The story took an even more ironic turn until the Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree also claimed a successful strike on the U.S. aircraft carrier Abraham, allegedly averting a planned American offensive.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkiye Cuts Trade with Israel, Affirms Support for Palestinians
President Erdoğan announced Turkiye’s cut in trade and relations with Israel, affirming full support for Palestinians. He warned that ongoing arms supplies fuel Israel’s aggression, worsening conditions in Palestine and Lebanon. Erdoğan highlighted Russia and China’s support for a Turkish initiative at the UN to ban arms to Israel and expressed concerns about Donald Trump’s election, hoping for a different U.S. stance in the Middle East.
Turkiye Receives BRICS Invitation to Join as Partner, Decision Pending
BRICS invited Turkiye to join as a partner, falling short of Turkiye’s goal for full membership. Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat welcomed the offer, highlighting BRICS’s role in fostering political and global cooperation. Bolat noted the final decision on membership would be made later, denying any objections from India over Turkiye’s Pakistan ties.
Turkiye Borrows $770.4 Million Through Bonds and Sukuk for Stability
Turkiye’s Treasury issued $770.37 million in dollar-denominated bonds and sukuk, including $562 million in bonds and $208.37 million in sukuk. Additionally, a two-year sukuk issuance of 12.08 billion lira ($351.43 million) was completed to bolster reserves. This issuance follows an S&P credit rating upgrade to -BB for Turkiye, highlighting tighter monetary policy and reserve growth.
Germany Approves Sale of Eurofighter Typhoon Jets to Turkiye
Turkiye’s Defense Minister Yaşar Güler announced Germany’s approval for selling 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets, following support from Italy, Spain, and the UK. Turkiye, previously hindered by a German ban, now plans to add two new squadrons to its air fleet. Supported by BAE Systems, Airbus, and Leonardo, the Eurofighter project has delivered over 550 jets to several countries, enhancing European defense partnerships.
Türkiye’s FDI Reaches $7.7 Billion with 8% Growth in 2024
Türkiye’s FDI inflows reached $7.67 billion from January to September 2024, marking an 8% year-on-year increase. Wholesale, retail, and real estate sectors attracted significant investments, with the EU leading at 52%, followed by the Netherlands, Germany, and the U.S. September alone saw $1.1 billion in FDI, bringing third-quarter totals to $2.8 billion, indicating steady foreign investor interest.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Gulf Markets Decline as Investors Await US Inflation Data
Gulf stock markets mostly closed down on Wednesday, awaiting US inflation data that could impact the Federal Reserve’s December rate decision. With a 0.2% rise in the October Consumer Price Index, further increases may reduce chances for a rate cut, currently at a 58.7% probability. Saudi Arabia’s index fell 1%, led by losses in Al-Tayseer Aluminum Products and Al Rajhi Bank, while oil prices hovered near two-week lows amid OPEC’s reduced demand forecasts. Dubai’s index rose 0.7%, driven by a 4.7% increase in Salik after reporting Q3 profit gains, while Emaar Properties rose 2%. Abu Dhabi and Qatar’s indices dropped 0.5% and 0.4%, respectively, and Egypt’s blue-chip index declined 0.5%.
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