★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
Netanyahu Links Ceasefire to IDF’s Anti-Hezbollah Operations at Border
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that any ceasefire with Lebanon must ensure the IDF’s ability to counter Hezbollah’s arms smuggling, particularly along the Syrian-Lebanese border. Addressing the Knesset, he vowed continued military pressure on Hezbollah during U.S.-brokered truce negotiations, citing the need to prevent the group from rearming. Lebanon submitted a written response to a U.S. truce proposal aimed at ending hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. The proposal includes a 60-day ceasefire and references U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for Hezbollah’s disarmament and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon. Al-Hadath sources noted Lebanon’s partial openness to discussing terms tied to sovereignty, but ongoing southern clashes and Beirut tensions suggest no imminent ceasefire. According to media sources, Israeli forces have already taken control of Chamaa village and advanced halfway to the western sea.
Israeli Drone Strike and Hezbollah Retaliation Precede U.S. Envoy’s Beirut Visit
An Israeli drone strike hit a building in Beirut’s Shiyah suburb early Tuesday, causing moderate injuries. Hezbollah claimed to down an Israeli “Hermes 450” drone over southern Lebanon and retaliated with 10 rockets on Meron and Upper Galilee, as well as missiles on northern Tel Aviv. Explosions were reported in the Sharon region, where five rockets were intercepted or landed. The Meron base attack injured three Israeli soldiers, hours before U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein’s arrival in Beirut.
Equal Treatment? US Envoy Hochstein Faces Iranian-Style Airport Scrutiny
U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein arrived in Beirut for cease-fire talks. Lebanon’s state agency reported that US Presidential Envoy Amos Hochstein’s luggage underwent detailed inspection upon arrival at Beirut’s international airport, adhering to standard security protocols. On November 15, the Iranian adviser Ali Larijani’s delegation was also searched at Beirut Airport, causing a brief diplomatic standoff when they resisted, prompting security to temporarily close the gates. The scrutiny reflects Lebanon’s approach of treating the United States as another potential supporter of Hezbollah while addressing the nation’s stability and disarmament efforts. The U.S. envoy confirmed he is negotiating a formula addressing security arrangements for all of Lebanon, not just the south, including Beirut, the seaport, and the airport. Sources indicated Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri responded positively to U.S. proposals, but Hezbollah remains resistant under Iranian influence.
Weapons and Attack Plans Found in Hezbollah Underground Facility
The IDF uncovered and destroyed a Hezbollah underground facility in southern Lebanon containing weapons, rockets, and living quarters. Documents detailing Israeli communities were also found, suggesting potential future attack plans. The facility supported hundreds of attacks on Israeli territory over the past year.
Hezbollah Heavy Missiles Hit Tel Aviv, Injure 12, Close Airport
Hezbollah launched rockets into central Israel, with a projectile striking Ramat Gan, a Tel Aviv suburb, injuring five individuals, one critically, and causing extensive property damage. Simultaneously, Israeli forces intercepted a drone over northern Israel, prompting sirens in Haifa. A rocket struck Bnei Brak near Tel Aviv, injuring six, while fragments from an interceptor missile caused a large fire in the area. In Harod, a bus carrying soldiers sustained damage from interceptor fragments after passengers had evacuated. Over 100 sirens sounded as Israeli defenses failed to intercept a ballistic missile due to weather and system errors, forcing the closure of Ben Gurion Airport.
Hezbollah Rockets Devastate Northern Israel, Kill One, Injure 30
Hezbollah launched 170 rockets into northern Israel, striking Haifa, Acre, Nahariya, Shefa-Amr, and the Western Galilee, killing one Arabic Israeli woman and injuring 30, including two critically. Arab-Israeli journalist Furat Nassar urges Arab Knesset members to challenge Israeli security over Iron Dome’s effectiveness in Arab areas. In Kiryat Shmona, rockets damaged homes and a Hesder yeshiva, while strikes in Shefa-Amr caused severe damage to five buildings. Some rockets were intercepted by the Iron Dome, but many landed in populated areas, triggering widespread sirens and marking the most intense barrage in recent days.
Israeli Strike Targets Beirut’s Zqaq al-Blat, Escalates Casualties
Israeli airstrikes hit central Beirut’s Zqaq al-Blat neighborhood, killing five people and injuring 31 near the parliament, prime minister’s office, and a Shia mosque. The strikes reportedly targeted a Hezbollah-linked social services office without prior evacuation warnings. This marked the third attack in 48 hours, following strikes in Ras al-Nabeh and Mar Elias that killed 15 and wounded 69.
Israeli Airstrikes Continue, Intensifying Destruction in Southern Lebanon
Israeli airstrikes have repeatedly targeted southern Lebanon, including Saghmar, Mansouri, and Halta, causing widespread destruction and displacing civilians.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Biden Urges G20 Leaders to Increase Pressure on Hamas for Ceasefire
President Biden called on G20 leaders to intensify pressure on Hamas for a ceasefire with Israel. He stressed the importance of minimizing civilian casualties while Israel defended itself. Biden committed to continuing efforts to secure a ceasefire that guarantees Israel’s security, facilitates the release of hostages, and alleviates the suffering of Palestinians. Despite Hamas’s rejection, Biden remains determined to reach an agreement before the end of his term.
U.S. Imposes Sanctions on Israeli Settlement Organization Amana in West Bank
The U.S. Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions on Amana, an Israeli settlement group operating in the West Bank. This decision restricts the organization’s access to the U.S. financial system and prohibits American entities from conducting transactions with it. The sanctions align with U.S. policy to discourage activities that undermine the peace process and promote regional stability in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Unveiling the Horror: Testimonies of Hamas’ Sexual Atrocities
Survivor testimonies and findings from Hamas’ October 7 attack reveal systematic sexual violence concealed amid chaos. Witnesses described women tied, naked, brutalized, and mutilated to hide crimes. First responders found broken pelvises, spread legs, burned bodies, and gunshots targeting sexual organs. Evidence of assault, including scattered underwear and used condoms, was largely uncollected due to operational demands. At Shura base, overwhelmed personnel prioritized victim identification over examining sexual injuries. A soldier covered a brutalized woman’s body rather than documenting it. Researchers noted deliberate use of sexual violence as a weapon of terror, with mutilation and burning employed to destroy evidence. The report highlights systemic failures in evidence preservation, the psychological toll on responders, and the need for reforms to address sexual violence in conflict.
Israeli Strikes Kill 31 Palestinians, Deepening Gaza’s Humanitarian Crisis
Israeli airstrikes killed 31 Palestinians Monday, targeting Nuseirat, Jabalia, Rafah, Mawasi, and Beit Lahia. Residential bombings destroyed homes, shelters, and safe zones, killing families and injuring others. Gaza’s Health Ministry reported 76 deaths in 24 hours, with hospitals overwhelmed, malnutrition rising, and civilians trapped in conflict zones. The ongoing assault has left over 43,846 dead, mostly women and children, and thousands remain under rubble, as intensified military operations worsen the humanitarian crisis across Gaza.
Hamas Claims Soldier Casualties, Israeli Forces Report Rising Losses
Hamas’s Al-Qassam Brigades claimed sniping five soldiers, targeting 12 others, and destroying an Israeli Merkava tank in Beit Lahia. Israeli army data confirmed five soldiers injured in Gaza, raising total military injuries to 5,370 and reporting two fatalities, including a commander. Casualties on both sides are mounting as intensified ground battles in northern Gaza continue, reflecting escalating conflict and significant losses.
Israeli Cyber Authority Alerts Organizations to Iranian Phishing Attack
Iranian hacker group MuddyWater is targeting Israeli organizations with phishing emails labeled “Israel’s International Tourism Program,” aiming to infiltrate networks, spy, and seize control. Operating under Iran’s Cyber Authority since 2017, the group employs advanced malware for espionage. The Cyber Authority urges organizations to neutralize the email and advises the public to avoid suspicious links in emails and messages.
Malfunctioning IDF Interceptor Crashes in Jordan After Drone Incident
An Israeli interceptor missile malfunctioned and crashed in Jordan’s Aqaba after intercepting a drone approaching Eilat from Iraq. The missile landed near Aqaba’s Ayla inlet, with two explosions reported—one from its self-destruction mechanism and another on impact. The IDF confirmed the malfunction during the interception, while Jordanian authorities reported a “flying object” crash without referencing Israel. The incident occurred near the border, highlighting tensions in the region amid escalating aerial threats.
Israeli Court Reveals Sinwar Document Leak, Security Risks Exposed
An Israeli court exposed details of the “Sinwar Document” leak from Netanyahu’s office. In April 2024, a reservist accessed and shared the sensitive document with Eli Feldstein, Netanyahu’s spokesperson, who bypassed censorship to distribute it to foreign outlets, aiming to sway public opinion on hostage negotiations. Investigations by Shin Bet and military intelligence revealed extensive internal breaches, highlighting significant risks to Israel’s security and leading to intensified scrutiny of unauthorized information leaks.
Israeli Police Clash With Ultra-Orthodox Over Military Draft Orders
Clashes erupted in Tel Aviv as ultra-Orthodox Jews protested 1,000 military draft notices, part of 7,000 expected soon. Protesters blocked streets in Bnei Brak, rejecting conscription as a violation of their traditions. Opposition leader Yair Lapid proposed cutting Haredim budgets and passport access, escalating tensions. The Israeli military faces personnel shortages amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, intensifying the draft debate and the need for broader conscription compliance.
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★ IRAN
Families Sue Iran Over October 7 Attack, Citing Secret Documents
Families of American victims from the October 7 Hamas-led attack have filed a federal lawsuit against Iran and affiliated terrorist groups. The lawsuit presents alleged secret documents indicating Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps transferred millions of dollars to Hamas. Attorney Gary Osen, representing several plaintiffs, claims this evidence demonstrates Tehran’s involvement in the attack. The case underscores ongoing concerns about Iran’s support for militant organizations and its impact on regional stability.
EU Imposes New Sanctions on Iran and Russian Shipping Firms
The European Council announced expanded sanctions against Iran for supporting Russia in the Ukraine war. New measures include banning the sale of EU components used by Iran to develop missiles and drones. Additionally, the EU prohibits dealings with ports linked to sanctioned entities or used to transfer Iranian equipment and technology to Russia.
Iran Seeks Unpressured Nuclear Talks Ahead of IAEA Meeting
Iran expressed hope for nuclear program discussions free from political pressures, ahead of this week’s critical International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) meeting in Vienna. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi visited two significant Iranian nuclear sites on Friday. President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized the desire to dispel doubts and ambiguities surrounding Tehran’s nuclear activities.
Iran’s Economic Influence in Syria Faces Challenges Post-Trump’s Re-election
Following Donald Trump’s re-election, Iran’s economic investments in Syria are under threat. The shift in U.S. leadership has led to increased Israeli attacks on Iranian targets in Syria, jeopardizing Tehran’s economic and military presence. This development raises concerns about the future of Iran’s influence in the region.
Iran-China Relations Unaffected by Trump’s Return, Says Advisor
Ali Akbar Velayati, senior advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader, stated that Donald Trump’s return to the presidency will not impact Iran’s foreign policy. During a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Kong Piao in Tehran, Velayati emphasized that Iran-China relations remain stable, as China is Iran’s largest trading partner and major oil importer.
Iran-Russia Non-Oil Trade Reaches $1.5 Billion in Seven Months
Iran’s non-oil trade with Russia reached $1.5 billion between March 20 and October 21, according to former Customs Administration head Mohammad Rezvani-Far. Russia ranked as Iran’s fifth-largest trading partner among neighboring countries during this period. Recent steps, including linking Russia’s “Mir” payment system with Iran’s “Shetab,” aim to enhance financial cooperation. Iranian Central Bank Governor Mohammad Reza Farzin highlighted this integration as a significant move toward economic collaboration, de-dollarization, and bolstering economic and tourism ties.
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★ SYRIA
Islamic State Resurgence and Ambushes in Syrian Badia Intensify
The Islamic State has escalated its presence in the Syrian Badia throughout 2024, carrying out 211 operations that have killed 592 people, including 478 Assad regime soldiers and pro-Iranian militia members, 58 civilians, and 56 of its own fighters. In a recent double attack east of Homs, ISIS ambushed Iranian militia positions, killing seven members of the Fatemiyoun Brigade and the Revolutionary Guards, and injuring others. Reinforcements were ambushed en route, with explosive devices destroying three vehicles and claiming additional lives. Despite Russian airstrikes and military campaigns, ISIS continues to exploit the vast desert terrain to launch surprise attacks, undermining regime forces and their allies across Deir Ezzor, Homs, Hama, Raqqa, and Aleppo, threatening regional stability.
Assad Foreign Minister Visits Tehran Following Two Iranian Officials Visit to Syria
Assad Foreign Minister Bassam al-Sabbagh arrived in Tehran on his first visit since taking office in September, marking a significant step in escalating coordination between the Assad regime and Iran. The visit follows recent trips by Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh and senior advisor Ali Larijani, who met Bashar al-Assad and regime officials. Al-Sabbagh is set to meet Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and other senior officials to discuss deepening bilateral ties and regional developments, reinforcing Tehran’s influence in Syria amid ongoing conflicts and power struggles.
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★ IRAQ
Iran Smuggles Missiles via Tankers, Fuels Iraqi Drone Strikes
Iran is allegedly smuggling missiles and ballistic drones to militias in Iraq using water and oil tankers, fueling a surge in drone attacks on Israel. These strikes, rising from six in August to 90 in October and 65 more in November, have prompted Israel to adopt cost-efficient countermeasures and warn of targeted strikes and assassinations. Iran-aligned Iraqi militias have vowed intensified operations against U.S. and Israeli interests over Gaza and Lebanon, claiming responsibility for a drone attack on Eilat. Iraqi officials warn that escalating militia activities risk pulling the country into a broader conflict, further destabilizing the region.
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★ YEMEN
US Military Flights Signal Deployment to Yemen
The U.S. has reportedly begun military flights to Yemen, signaling potential troop deployment as part of an escalation plan. Diplomatic sources confirm that military cargo planes have landed in Shabwa province. While officially described as humanitarian, satellite images show Ataq Airport is unsuitable for such missions, suggesting military objectives.
Ship Reports Missile Incidents Near Yemen Amid Red Sea Escalation
A ship reported missile landings near its location twice within two days in Yemen’s Red Sea waters. The British Maritime Trade Operations confirmed that on Monday, a missile fell 60 nautical miles southeast of Aden, with no harm to the crew or vessel. On Sunday, the same ship reported a similar incident 25 nautical miles west of Mocha Port, highlighting rising tensions in the region.
Houthi Militia Expands Landmine Networks in Hodeidah
The Houthi militia is intensifying landmine planting in Yemen’s Hodeidah after forcibly displacing residents. Local authorities report widespread mining in farmlands, homes, and villages in Al-Jarrahi, Al-Manzar, Al-Durayhimi, and coastal areas of Al-Tuhayta and Beit Al-Faqih districts. These actions endanger civilian lives and destabilize the region. The Houthis aim to turn coastal and frontline areas into extensive minefields, with operations continuing non-stop.
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★ TURKIYE
Reports Claim Hamas Relocated to Turkiye; Ankara Denies
Reports suggested Hamas leaders had relocated to Turkiye after Qatar ended mediation in the Gaza conflict, citing ineffective negotiation efforts. The U.S. had pressured Qatar to expel Hamas leaders following failed hostage negotiations and executions, including that of an American. While Qatar clarified that the move was temporary and mediation could resume if talks became serious, Turkiye denied hosting a Hamas office, stating visits by members are occasional. Turkiye currently hosts families of Hamas leaders, reflecting the evolving dynamics in the ongoing conflict.
Turkish Exports To G20 Nations Near $100 Billion
Turkiye’s exports to G20 nations rose 37% in five years, reaching $97.2 billion in 2023, after recovering from a COVID-19-induced drop in 2020. Exports increased from $71.2 billion in 2019 to $86.8 billion in 2021 and $97.3 billion in 2022. In the first nine months of 2024, exports reached $73.9 billion. The ongoing G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro emphasizes economic collaboration and sustainability among its member nations.
Turkiye’s Short-Term External Debt Rises Again
Turkiye’s short-term external debt rose 0.1% to $176.4 billion by September. Bank debt increased 15.5% to $79 billion, while other sectors’ debt dropped 3.9% to $59 billion. Loans for banks surged 60.8% to $20.3 billion. Non-resident deposits in foreign currencies fell 1.2% to $19.8 billion, while Turkish lira deposits rose 26.8% to $19.2 billion. Public sector debt grew 14.8% to $39.6 billion, and private debt increased 3.3% to $98.4 billion, totaling $233.1 billion in maturing obligations.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Saudi Defense Minister Meets Indiana Governor in Riyadh
Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman met with Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb to discuss enhancing Saudi-U.S. relations and shared interests. The meeting included high-ranking Saudi officials, such as Deputy Defense Minister Prince Abdulrahman bin Mohammed and Chief of General Staff General Fayyad Al-Ruwaili, alongside U.S. officials, including Indiana National Guard Commander Major General Dale Lyles. The talks emphasized cooperation and strategic partnerships.
Saudi Arabia and France Discuss Strengthening Defense Cooperation
Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman met French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu in Riyadh to enhance military and defense collaboration. The discussions focused on Saudi-French relations, regional developments, and global peace efforts. Prince Khalid highlighted on “X” the importance of advancing bilateral ties and addressing shared interests.
ACWA Power Signs $4 Billion Energy Deals for Gas Power Plants
Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power signed $4 billion agreements with the Saudi Power Procurement Company for two 1,800 MW combined-cycle gas power plants, “Al-Ramah-1” in Riyadh and “Al-Nairiyah-1” in the Eastern Province. ACWA Power owns 35% of the projects, alongside Saudi Electricity Company and KEPCO. The 25-year agreements cover development, financing, construction, ownership, and operation. Financial impact is expected by the second half of 2028.
Jeddah to Host Formula 1 Women’s Academy Race in Historic Milestone
Jeddah will host the second round of the Formula 1 Women’s Academy in April, marking a landmark moment in Saudi Arabia, where women gained the right to drive just a few years ago. The 2025 season spans three continents, concluding in Las Vegas, and features cars reaching 240 km/h. Supported by all ten Formula 1 teams, the series highlights the growing global prominence of women in motorsport, with a Netflix documentary set to follow.
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★ EGYPT & SUDAN
Egypt and Brazil Elevate Relations to Strategic Partnership
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva signed a joint statement to elevate bilateral relations to a strategic partnership. The announcement followed el-Sisi’s arrival in Brazil for the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro. Both leaders discussed regional issues, agreeing on implementing the two-state solution and expanding international recognition of Palestine while rejecting attempts to undermine the Palestinian cause.
Egypt’s Proposed Refugee Law Sparks National Debate
Egypt’s parliament is currently debating a proposed law aimed at regulating the status of refugees within the country. The legislation has ignited widespread discussion, with critics questioning the benefits to Egypt and expressing concerns that the provisions may lead to the permanent settlement of refugees, thereby increasing economic burdens. Experts acknowledge the necessity of formalizing refugee regulations but attribute the controversy to a lack of public preparation and perceived inconsistencies with previous governmental narratives highlighting the economic challenges posed by the growing refugee population.
Sudan Pays the Price for U.S. Missile Authorization to Ukraine
Russia vetoed a UN Security Council resolution led by the UK and Sierra Leone that sought an immediate ceasefire in Sudan’s conflict between military factions and the RSF. The resolution, supported by all other members, aimed to address a worsening humanitarian crisis. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned Russia’s veto as a “disgrace,” accusing it of blocking consensus and repeatedly denouncing President Putin. Tensions escalated further after President Biden authorized Ukraine’s use of American-made long-range missiles against Russia. Moscow’s Deputy UN Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy dismissed the resolution as “post-colonial” and criticized the omission of Sudan’s legitimate authorities, while Sudan’s foreign ministry welcomed Russia’s veto as a stance for its sovereignty and unity. Over 61,000 people have died since the conflict began in April 2023, a toll underscoring the dire humanitarian crisis Russia chose to disregard by vetoing the resolution.
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