The events below are arranged by significance and relevance, to current national security or policy interests, rather than being listed based on the sequence in which they occurred.
★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
The Voice and Architect of Hezbollah Media Strategy, Eliminated
Israel conducted eight waves of airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in Beirut’s Dahieh on Sunday, targeting key sites including the Supreme Islamic Shiite Council and a Hezbollah civil defense center. The most significant strike hit the Syrian Baath Party headquarters, killing Hezbollah co-founder and spokesperson Mohamad Afif, his aide, and two others. Known for his defiance, Afif held public press conferences in southern Beirut despite constant Israeli drone surveillance. His final appearance, on October 19, 2024, at the Sayyed al-Shuhada Complex, went viral on social media and was described as hilarious. During his statement, where he claimed responsibility for a suicide drone attack on the Israeli Prime Minister’s residence, the press was forced to flee due to an IDF airstrike alert. In retaliation, Hezbollah fired 40 to 80 rockets into northern Israel, striking the Nesher gas facility, damaging a synagogue in Haifa, and injuring civilians in towns such as Nahariya and the Western Galilee.
Israeli Forces Advance in Lebanon as Clashes with Hezbollah Intensify
Israeli forces launched their deepest ground operation in southern Lebanon on Saturday, advancing 5 kilometers to the hill of Shama before retreating after fierce clashes with Hezbollah. The IDF’s Haruv Reconnaissance Unit dismantled Hezbollah tunnels, weapon storage facilities, and military sites in nearby villages, while airstrikes destroyed the municipality building in Khirbet Selm. An Israeli strike on a Lebanese army post reportedly killed two soldiers and injured three. Heavy resistance along the Shama-Tayr Harfa axis, combined with Hezbollah’s drone and missile counterattacks, stalled Israeli progress. Concurrently, Hezbollah fired rockets and missiles at northern Israeli sites, hitting bases near Haifa and troop gatherings west of Al-Jbeen, reportedly causing casualties. An Israeli shell struck Italy’s UNIFIL base in Lebanon, prompting a diplomatic protest. Sergeant Ori Nisanovich, 21, of the Golani Brigade, was killed during the fighting.
10,000 Troops and Arms Control: Key Points of U.S. Ceasefire for Lebanon
Lebanon has reportedly welcomed the U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal aimed at de-escalating hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, according to LBCI. Delivered by U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson, the proposal outlines measures to stabilize southern Lebanon. Key provisions include deploying 5,000–10,000 Lebanese soldiers to the area and ensuring Israeli attacks on Lebanese territory cease. The plan also calls for redrawing land borders and banning the rearmament of unofficial armed groups. Arms sales and domestic weapons production would be restricted to government oversight, with Lebanese security forces authorized to monitor weapon entries, dismantle unregulated arms facilities, and enforce compliance. Under the agreement, Israel would withdraw from southern Lebanon within seven days, with the Lebanese army taking control under international supervision. Armed groups south of the Litani River would be disarmed within 60 days of the agreement’s signing.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
IDF Strikes Kill 130 as Hamas Claims Destruction of Seven Israeli Vehicles
Israeli forces intensified operations in northern Gaza, killing 10 gunmen in a Jabalia drone strike and targeting a Hamas command center in Shati camp, previously a school for displaced civilians, causing 10 deaths and 20 injuries. Precision munitions were used to limit civilian harm. Meanwhile, Gaza remains isolated, with intensified strikes on Beit Hanoun and Jabalia as Israeli tanks advance. Over 120 civilians, including entire families, were killed in airstrikes on Beit Lahiya, Bureij, and Nuseirat camps. Hamas’ Al-Qassam Brigades released footage showing the destruction of seven Israeli vehicles, the killing of several soldiers, and the capture of a MAG machine gun. Total Palestinian casualties have exceeded 43,799 killed and 103,601 injured since October 7.
Pope Calls for Genocide Inquiry into Gaza Actions
Pope Francis, citing expert opinions, questioned if Israel’s Gaza actions constitute genocide, marking intensified criticism. His remarks, previewed in an upcoming book, align with growing accountability demands. Israel denies the allegations, while South Africa has filed a case at the International Court of Justice.
Suspects Arrested Over Flares at Netanyahu’s Residence
Three suspects, including an IDF reserves officer, were arrested for launching flares into Prime Minister Netanyahu’s Caesarea residence yard during a protest. Netanyahu was absent. Shin Bet is investigating, with a 30-day gag order on case details.
Hamas Pressures Trump, Rejects U.S. Hostage Demands
Senior Hamas official Bassem Naim urged U.S. President-elect Trump to pressure Israel to end hostilities, reiterating that the group’s ceasefire demands include a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Another senior official, speaking to the Qatari newspaper *Al-Araby Al-Jadeed* on Sunday, confirmed that communication with Gaza’s field leadership, responsible for managing Israeli hostages, has been severed for a month. He dismissed claims that Hamas’s political leadership had lost control over field operations, emphasizing hostages as bargaining leverage. During prior negotiations led by the Biden administration, Hamas withheld information about hostage conditions, citing the U.S.’s refusal to provide guarantees to stop Israeli military actions.
Israeli Economy Surges 3.8% Despite Conflict
Israel’s economy grew at an annualized rate of 3.8% in Q3 2024, surpassing projections of 2.9%. Growth was driven by an 8.6% increase in consumer spending, a 21.8% rise in fixed asset investments, and a 1.7% export boost. Despite a 10.8% decline in government spending, per capita GDP climbed 2.6%, underscoring economic resilience during the Gaza conflict with Hamas and diminishing the prospect of imminent interest rate cuts.
Israel Expands Ultra-Orthodox Military Recruitment Under Rising Pressure
Israel issued draft notices to 7,000 ultra-Orthodox Jews (“Haredim”) to bolster forces in Gaza and Lebanon following a Supreme Court decision abolishing exemptions for religious seminary students. The Defense Ministry promised accommodations for religious observance while aiming to meet military demands and alleviate pressure on reservists. The initiative, a pivotal step in integrating ultra-Orthodox communities into national service, risks intensifying tensions between secular and religious factions.
Settlers Disrupt Mosque, Block Vital Route, Target Harvest
On Friday, 20 settlers entered a mosque, chanting, dancing, and broadcasting Hebrew songs, with some ascending the minaret. Settlers occupied a vital route blocked by Israeli closures and gathered under military protection in another area. Across Judea and Samaria, now known as the West Bank, settlers targeted the Palestinian olive harvest with assaults on individuals and property, often backed by the Israeli army.
Israel, Greece Negotiating 2 Billion-Euro Deal for Defense System
Greece is negotiating a 2 billion euro deal with Israel to develop a defense system similar to the Iron Dome. The system will intercept short-range and long-range missiles, bolstering Greece’s defense capabilities against regional threats, including Turkiye.
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★ IRAN
Israeli Strike on Iran’s Parchin Facility Halts Nuclear Development
Israel’s late-October strike on Iran’s Parchin military complex significantly hindered Iran’s nuclear bomb development capabilities, according to senior Israeli officials. The attack destroyed advanced equipment critical for shaping and testing plastic explosives surrounding uranium in a nuclear device, essential for initiating a nuclear chain reaction. Iran had previously utilized this equipment before suspending its military nuclear program in 2003.
Secret Committee Established to Identify Iran’s Supreme Leader Successor
Abolhassan Mahdavi, a temporary Imam in Isfahan, disclosed during Friday’s sermon that Iran’s Assembly of Experts has formed a secret committee to nominate three potential successors to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The candidates have been ranked according to criteria set by the Assembly.
Trump Administration Plans to Bankrupt Iran with ‘Maximum Pressure’ Policies
The incoming Trump administration is preparing to reinstate the “maximum pressure” strategy against Iran, aiming to destabilize Tehran’s economy and hinder its support for militant proxies and nuclear development.
Iran Vows Response to Israel, Ready for Nuclear Talks
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi affirmed Iran’s right to self-defense against any Israeli attacks, stating Iran will determine the time and place for its response. He emphasized that Israel is aware of Iran’s potential retaliation if its nuclear sites are targeted. Iran has repeatedly vowed a “destructive response” to Israel’s airstrikes on Iranian sites last October and reaffirmed its strong support for Hezbollah and the resistance axis.
EU Plans Sanctions on Iran for Supplying Missiles to Russia
European Union foreign ministers plan new sanctions against Iran for supplying ballistic missiles to Russia used in Ukraine’s war. This follows an initial sanctions package imposed in October. The ministers will finalize the sanctions during Monday’s Brussels meeting on Ukraine’s war and Russia’s support from North Korea, China, and Iran.
Iran Denies Elon Musk Meeting with UN Ambassador
Iran’s Foreign Ministry categorically denied claims of a meeting between businessman Elon Musk and its UN ambassador. Spokesperson Ismail Baghaei expressed surprise over media reports of the alleged encounter. The New York Times previously reported that Musk, close to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, met with Iran’s ambassador to ease tensions between Tehran and Washington.
Iran Imports $1.755 Billion in Goods from China in One Month
Iran imported $1.755 billion worth of goods from China between September 22 and October 21, according to the Iranian Chamber of Commerce. Spokesperson Ruhollah Latifi stated that China was Iran’s second-largest import source during this period. Additionally, China imported $1.434 billion in non-oil goods from Iran, ranking as the second-largest destination for Iranian exports.
Iranian Revolutionary Guard Opens Advanced Military Simulation Center
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard inaugurated a modern wargaming center at its Command and Staff University in Tehran. The center, officially opened by General Hossein Salami, uses advanced simulation technology to create realistic combat scenarios. This allows the armed forces to evaluate tactics and enhance operational readiness without the risks of actual combat.
Iran Exports $1.2 Billion in Non-Oil Goods to Pakistan
Iran exported $1.2 billion in non-oil goods to Pakistan during the first seven months of the Iranian year (March 20 – October 21). Former Customs Administration head Mohammad Rezvani-Far stated that Pakistan ranked as the sixth-largest destination for Iranian non-oil exports. Industry and Trade Minister Mohammad Atabak announced that a free trade agreement with Pakistan is finalized, with the goods list to be issued within two months.
Iran Faces Power Outages Despite Massive Natural Gas Reserves
Iran, holding the world’s second-largest natural gas reserves, struggles to meet electricity demands, facing widespread blackouts nationwide. Scheduled outages have affected Tehran and other major cities, highlighting challenges in balancing domestic energy needs with geopolitical priorities. U.S. sanctions hinder investments essential for infrastructure upgrades, exacerbating the energy crisis.
Iran Seeks $20 Billion Trade with Iraq, Cites Banking Barriers
Iranian officials stated that trade with Iraq could reach $20 billion if banking barriers and competitive market incentives are resolved. Chamber of Commerce head Samad Mohsenzadeh emphasized Iraq’s demand for Iranian products but noted competition from Turkiye, Pakistan, and India. These nations offer Iraqi businesses banking facilities, such as six- to twelve-month letters of credit, easing trade processes.
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★ SYRIA
Iran Steps Up Pressure on Assad to Counter Efforts Limiting Its Influence in Syria
Forty-eight hours after Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s message was delivered by advisor Ali Larijani to Bashar al-Assad, Iranian Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh met with Assad on Sunday. Upon his arrival with an official delegation, he stated that his visit, at the invitation of Assad’s foreign minister, was open-ended. Analysts suggest the visit aims to counter intensified efforts to limit Iran’s influence in Syria.
Iran Closes Saipa Factory in Syria Citing Economic Challenges
Iran has closed its Saipa factory in Syria, its only industrial facility there, due to unresolved bilateral issues, according to Saeed Aref, Secretary-General of the Iran-Syria Joint Chamber of Commerce. Despite investing $50 million in the factory and over $25 billion supporting Syria during the war, Iran has not gained significant economic returns from reconstruction efforts. Other Iranian industrial projects in Syria also remain inactive. However, Iranian companies continue to provide technical and engineering services for infrastructure repair. The announcement coincided with Iranian advisor Ali Larijani’s visit to Damascus and Beirut.
Hezbollah-Israel Conflict Disrupts Syria’s Captagon Trade
The Hezbollah-Israel conflict has disrupted Syria’s Captagon trade, a key economic pillar for Assad’s regime and Hezbollah’s funding. Captagon, a synthetic stimulant, generates revenues surpassing Mexican cartels, with Syria as the world’s largest producer. International sanctions target Assad’s relatives and Syria’s 4th Armored Division for facilitating production and smuggling. The conflict has reduced smuggling and caused shortages, threatening Syria’s economy and prompting calls for stronger international action against the regime’s drug networks and global trafficking operations.
Israeli Airstrike Strikes Damascus Twice in 48 Hours
An Israeli airstrike on Friday targeted Damascus’s Mazzeh area, the second attack there in two days, Syrian state media reported. Casualty details from the latest strike were not disclosed. This follows intensified Israeli attacks against Syria amid ongoing conflict with Lebanon since September. On Thursday, Israeli strikes on residential areas in Mazzeh and Qudsaya killed 15 and injured 16, according to Syrian state and military sources.
Islamic Jihad Confirms Death of Two Leaders in Israeli Airstrike
The Islamic Jihad movement confirmed the deaths of two leaders, Abdul Aziz Al-Minaawi and Rami Abu Issa, in an Israeli airstrike on Qudsaya near Damascus. The strike killed at least 20 operatives and leaders of the group. Several leaders were reported dead in the Israeli attack, which destroyed the targeted building. The airstrike targeted key figures in the group, intensifying the ongoing conflict.
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★ IRAQ
Roadside Bomb Kills Three Iraqi Soldiers Near Tuz Khurmatu
A roadside bomb struck an Iraqi army vehicle near Tuz Khurmatu, 175 kilometers north of Baghdad, on Sunday. The attack claimed the lives of three soldiers and left two others critically injured, according to police and hospital sources. While no group immediately claimed responsibility, Iraqi security officials noted the area’s activity by Islamic State militants.
Iraqi Resistance Conducts Drone Strikes on Israeli Targets
Iraqi resistance groups launched drone strikes on strategic Israeli sites across occupied territories on Saturday, supporting Palestinian and Lebanese civilians. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq confirmed targeting a key facility in Eilat, also known as Umm Al-Rashrash, with explosive-laden drones. A second strike hit another vital target in the same area. The group described the operations as retaliation for Israeli actions against civilians and vowed to intensify their attacks.
Iraqi Airstrike Targets and Kills Four ISIS Suspects in Kirkuk
On Saturday, an Iraqi airstrike killed four ISIS suspects in Kirkuk province, following two days of tracking by the Joint Operations Command’s Targeting Cell. The strike, executed with an F-16 in the Zaghaitoun Valley, destroyed their hideout. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to eliminate ISIS remnants in disputed areas between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government. Despite its 2017 defeat, ISIS continues exploiting security gaps. A similar strike last week killed four more suspects, raising the year’s total of ISIS operatives killed to over 100.
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★ YEMEN
Houthi Drone Strike Targets Israeli Port of Eilat
Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree announced a drone attack on a “vital target” in Israel’s Red Sea port city of Eilat, on Saturday. Saree confirmed multiple drones were used in the operation, marking a direct strike on Israeli territory.
Houthis Demonstrate Advanced Military Capabilities in Yemen
A report by “Axios” underscores the substantial growth in Houthi military capabilities in Yemen. According to U.S. Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, Bill LaPlante, the Houthis are increasingly employing advanced weaponry, including missiles. Speaking at the Future of Defense Summit in Washington, LaPlante detailed their use of drones and missiles over the past year to target ships and blockade maritime routes near Yemen, causing significant disruptions in global shipping. LaPlante, an experienced missile engineer and physicist, described their advancements in the last six months as remarkable. Behnam Ben Taleblu, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, further emphasized that the Houthis are Iran’s sole proxy equipped with anti-ship ballistic missiles.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkiye Blocks Israeli President’s Plane, Forcing Cancellation of Azerbaijan Visit
Turkiye denied airspace access to Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s plane, compelling him to cancel his planned visit to Azerbaijan for the COP29 Climate Summit in Baku. Herzog’s office cited security concerns for the abrupt change, though neither Turkiye nor Israel officially confirmed the airspace denial. The cancellation occurs amidst heightened tensions over Israel’s Gaza conflict, with Herzog’s visit to Azerbaijan, a neighbor of Iran, intended to address regional unrest and growing diplomatic challenges.
Croatia Approves $91 Million Purchase Of Turkish Combat Drones
Croatia signed a $91 million deal to acquire six Bayraktar TB2 drones from Türkiye by 2026, including weapons, reconnaissance equipment, training, and maintenance. Defense Minister Ivan Anusic emphasized the system’s importance in addressing modern threats. The package features spare parts for 4,000 flight hours, ground control systems, and a two-year warranty. Bayraktar TB2 drones have proven effective in Ukraine and North Africa. Croatia also plans to purchase eight HIMARS missile systems from the U.S. for $290 million.
Turkiye Records $5.5 Billion Budget Deficit in October
Turkiye recorded a $5.41 billion budget deficit in October, totaling 1.26 trillion lira year-to-date. The primary deficit, excluding interest, reached 50.05 billion lira in October and 211.38 billion lira for 2024. The Central Bank projects inflation at 44% by the end of 2024, decreasing to 21% in 2025.
Erdoğan Attends G20 Summit, Highlights Middle East Crisis
President Erdoğan arrived in Brazil for the G20 summit, prioritizing Middle East violence and urging action against Israel’s attacks. The two-day summit addresses economic concerns, climate change, and international security. Erdoğan’s participation follows key diplomatic events, including the Organization of Turkic States summit and COP29.
Türkiye Captures PKK Portugal Ringleader, Neutralises Eight Terrorists
Turkish forces arrested Serdar Tunagur, the PKK’s Portugal ringleader, during a joint operation in Istanbul. Tunagur was involved in subversive PKK activities in Portugal. Türkiye also “neutralized” eight PKK/YPG terrorists in Syria and Iraq as part of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Saudi-U.S. Discussions Focus on Air Force Cooperation
Saudi Air Force Commander Lt. Gen. Turki bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz held talks with U.S. officials on military cooperation during his visit to the United States. According to a statement by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense, the discussions included current and future programs and projects of the Royal Saudi Air Force. Lt. Gen. Turki bin Bandar also met with Kelly Seybolt, U.S. Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for International Affairs, to explore collaborative initiatives.
Saudi Voluntary Carbon Market Targets Climate Finance Deficit
Saudi Arabia’s Regional Voluntary Carbon Market aims to bridge the growing climate finance gap in developing nations. CEO Riham Al-Gizy stated that achieving a $100 billion market by 2030 could play a crucial role in addressing the shortfall. Speaking at COP29 in Baku, she emphasized the $2.4 trillion annual investment needed by 2030 for climate action, noting that only $18 billion—less than 2% of the required amount—was allocated to Global South nations in 2022. She stressed the urgency of scalable solutions to meet net-zero goals.
Jordan and Qatar Call for Immediate Action in Gaza
Jordanian and Qatari Foreign Ministers, Ayman Safadi and Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, urged the international community to act immediately to address the severe humanitarian crisis in northern Gaza, warning of imminent famine as estimated by the UN. They stressed the importance of continued aid delivery, criticized Israel’s blockade on humanitarian assistance, and reaffirmed support for UNRWA, rejecting any efforts to undermine its role.
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★ EGYPT
Egypt Boosts Economic Momentum with Energy Projects and Trade Growth
Egypt is relocating renewable energy projects for green hydrogen production to sites near the Suez Canal Economic Zone, reducing transmission costs and advancing green hydrogen initiatives. The petroleum sector is also expanding, with Chevron drilling gas wells in the Western Mediterranean and ExxonMobil commencing operations next month. Foreign investments by G20 countries reached $12 billion in 2022/2023, up from $8.7 billion the previous year, while Egypt’s trade with G20 nations grew to $61 billion in the first nine months of 2024. Exports totaled $14.4 billion, despite a slight decline from $14.9 billion in 2023. These developments reflect Egypt’s efforts to solidify its position as a regional economic hub.
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