★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
Israel and Hezbollah’s Conditions Entrap U.S. Envoy Hochstein
U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein navigates a standoff as Israel demands operational freedom and Hezbollah insists on sovereignty in cease-fire negotiations. Following a 90-minute meeting with Lebanese Speaker Nabih Berri, the U.S. and Lebanon agreed on terms barring Israeli preemptive strikes while permitting self-defense. Lebanon showed flexibility on Britain’s monitoring role but sought clarity on dismantling Hezbollah’s Litani infrastructure, as the U.S. pressed for full Lebanese Army deployment along the border. Shortly after Hochstein’s announcement, Naim Qassem released a speech and vowed retaliation for Beirut attacks, including Mohammad Afif’s assassination, targeting Tel Aviv while accusing Israel of exploiting talks. Concurrently, the IDF bolstered defenses near the Lebanon border, establishing permanent outposts, a $6.6 million tactical unit, surveillance systems, and a 60-member rapid response team while dismantling older infrastructure to secure border communities. An Israeli airstrike on the Lebanese-Syrian border has further inflamed tensions, displacing residents and complicating talks.
Hezbollah Missiles and Drones Kill Five, Injure Eleven
Over the past two days, Hezbollah intensified hostilities by targeting Israel’s Ramat David Airbase with drones and employing precision-guided missiles, rockets, and drones against critical military installations, including the Gililot intelligence base near Tel Aviv, home to Unit 8200. Last week, Hezbollah launched 400 rockets and 27 drones, with Israel intercepting the majority. Five Israeli soldiers were killed in southern Lebanon as Hezbollah launched rockets and drones targeting bases in Nahariya, Safed, and Acca. Israel reported 11 injured soldiers, multiple rocket impacts, and significant damage across northern regions, including Shaghra and Khiyam. Advanced Qader 2 missiles and drones have inflicted substantial damage on bases such as Tel Hai and Beit Lid, affecting civilian areas and triggering alarms in Haifa and the Galilee. Fierce clashes erupted between the Israeli army and Hezbollah near Khiyam and Shamaa in southern Lebanon. Israeli forces launched airstrikes and artillery to advance on Khiyam after previous failed attempts. In Shamaa, efforts to encircle Bayada and isolate Naqoura continue under heavy fire. Hezbollah launched rockets from southern Lebanon on November 19, with one projectile striking a UNIFIL post in Ramiyeh, approximately six miles from Israel’s northern border. The attack occurred during a broader missile barrage targeting Israeli areas and caused damage to the base.
Israel Conducts 150 Strikes, Discovers New Russian Arms, Eliminates Commanders
Israel conducted 150 strikes on Hezbollah targets, destroying 25 weapon depots and 30 rocket platforms. Last week, Hezbollah fired 400 rockets and 27 drones, with Israel intercepting 22 drones. The Israel Air Force eliminated Hezbollah’s anti-tank missile commanders, responsible for attacks on Israeli civilians in Galilee and coastal areas. Hezbollah’s medium-range rocket commander Ali Tawfiq Dweik in an airstrike on Kfar Jouz, Lebanon. Dweik, responsible for over 300 rockets targeting Haifa and central Israel, was appointed in September. IDF operations struck over 100 targets, including command centers, launchers, weapons storage facilities, and military structures, significantly reducing Hezbollah’s firepower. Ground forces discovered advanced Russian-made weapons, including Konkurs, Fagot, and Sagger missile systems, in Hezbollah depots near the Lebanon-Israel border. Reports reveal 70% of seized arms, smuggled via Syria since 2015 with Russian backing for Assad, significantly enhanced Hezbollah’s combat capabilities. Another Israeli airstrike killed a Lebanese soldier on the Burj al-Muluk-Qalaa road, following three soldiers killed in Sarafand.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
ICC Issues Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu, Galant, and Deif
The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Galant, and Qassam Brigades leader Mohammed Deif, citing war crimes in Gaza. The court accused Netanyahu and Galant of using starvation as a war tactic, targeting civilians, and blocking humanitarian aid, with charges including genocide and crimes against humanity. Despite Israel’s non-recognition of the court’s jurisdiction, the ICC emphasized its mandate to deliver justice to Gaza’s victims. Netanyahu’s office denounced the ICC’s arrest warrants for him and Yoav Galant as a “modern-day Dreyfus trial,” labeling the court a corrupt and antisemitic body. The statement accused ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan of fabricating charges to distract from his own scandals and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to achieving its war objectives in Gaza. Netanyahu declared Israel’s actions in Gaza as just, following the October 2023 Hamas attacks, rejecting any interference with its self-defense efforts.
Israeli Operations Intensify in Gaza and West Bank
Israeli forces conducted a two-day operation in Jenin, neutralizing three Islamic Jihad gunmen, dismantling four explosives labs, and seizing weapons. Employing the “pressure cooker” tactic, the operation uncovered rifles, destroyed bomb-making facilities, and neutralized explosives targeting soldiers. Since October 2023, over 5,250 Palestinians, including 2,050 Hamas operatives, have been arrested in intensified counter-terrorism measures linked to the Gaza conflict. In Beit Lahiya, clashes claimed the lives of Seven IDF soldiers, including Staff Sergeant Orr Katz and Capt. Yogev Pazy was killed in recent operations, raising Israel’s toll to 379 in the Gaza offensive and 800 overall since October 7. Meanwhile, an airstrike in Khan Younis killed seven Palestinians, including a girl, in a humanitarian zone. G20 leaders urged ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon, citing humanitarian crises and demanding increased aid and removal of delivery barriers.
Captured Documents Reveal Iran’s Decades-Long Funding of Hamas
Israel obtained documents showing Iran funded Hamas with tens of millions annually over 20 years. These records, seized during Gaza operations, were analyzed by The Meir Amit Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center. Interrogations of captured Hamas terrorists provided Israel’s Shin Bet with further insights into Iran’s financial networks supporting Hamas. The findings confirm Iran’s long-term role in funding and empowering Hamas’s terror operations through sustained monetary assistance.
Israel Seeks Ukraine’s Expertise To Counter Iranian Drone Threats
Israeli defense companies are collaborating with Ukraine, leveraging its three years of battlefield experience and advanced drone expertise. Both nations face threats from Iranian Shahed drones, which pose unpredictable challenges across multiple fronts. This partnership focuses on knowledge exchange to enhance Israel’s drone defense strategies, addressing shared security concerns without forming formal military alliances. The collaboration aims to foster economic and strategic benefits while improving solutions for evolving drone threats.
Netanyahu Increases Hostage Reward and Guarantees Safe Gaza Exit
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu raised the reward for hostage information in Gaza to 5 million shekels per hostage and guaranteed safe passage for informants and their families. While Israel offers financial incentives to expedite releases, negotiations remain stalled, with Netanyahu and the U.S. blaming Hamas and Qatar halting mediation. Public and political pressure on Netanyahu intensifies as demands grow for swift and effective solutions to the ongoing hostage crisis.
Israel Conducts Largest Arms Transfer To Azerbaijan In November
Israel carried out unprecedented arms transfers to Azerbaijan in November, with four operations on November 5, 8, 9, and 13. Reports confirm six flights this month and five in October, emphasizing strengthened defense ties. Israel’s support during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, aiding Azerbaijan’s territorial reclamation, reflects growing military collaboration. Published photos highlight these strategic transfers.
UN Reports Largest Gaza Aid Theft, Escalating Food Crisis
Nearly 100 UN aid trucks carrying food were looted in Gaza after rerouting through Kerem Shalom, with 98 of 109 trucks raided and transporters injured. UN officials called it the worst theft in terms of volume, worsening food shortages for over two million residents reliant on aid. The convoy faced access challenges after Israeli instructions forced an unfamiliar route, highlighting critical security and logistical issues in delivering humanitarian relief to southern and central Gaza.
New U.S. Sanctions Target Senior Hamas Leaders
The U.S. Treasury sanctioned six senior Hamas officials, including a leader of the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades. The sanctions targeted fundraising, arms smuggling to Gaza, and representatives abroad. Treasury pledged to disrupt Hamas’s financial networks and hold enablers accountable. Earlier sanctions exposed fake charities raising $10 million monthly for Hamas, bolstering its operations in Gaza. The announcement coincided with the anniversary of Hamas’s October attack on southern Israel, where 1,200 were killed, and 250 abducted.
US Vetoes UN Cease-Fire Resolution Over Hostage Conditions
The U.S. vetoed a UN resolution for a Gaza cease-fire, citing Hamas’ refusal to release seven American hostages. Fourteen Security Council members supported the resolution, but the U.S. insisted on explicit hostage release conditions. Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon praised the U.S. stance, opposing any cease-fire without freeing hostages. Israeli leadership vowed to dismantle Hamas’ rule, offering a $5 million reward for information aiding hostage recovery, as tensions in Gaza remain unresolved.
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★ IRAN
Iran’s Enriched Uranium Stockpile Hits 6,604.4 Kilograms
The United States and European nations have submitted a resolution to the IAEA Board of Governors, condemning Iran’s lack of transparency on its nuclear program ahead of a vote on Thursday in Vienna. This follows the IAEA’s recent report on Tuesday that Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile grew by 852.6 kilograms since the last quarterly report, reaching 6,604.4 kilograms by October 26. The report also noted a rise in uranium enriched to 60% purity, increasing by 17.6 kilograms to a total of 182.3 kilograms. Western powers remain skeptical, and Iran has warned of “appropriate” retaliation if the resolution passes, escalating tensions over its nuclear agenda.
Iran Summons EU Envoy Over New Sanctions Dispute
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei denounced new EU and UK sanctions over alleged missile transfers to Russia as baseless and unlawful. Baghaei claimed the measures violate international law and lack credible evidence. In protest, Iran summoned Hungary’s ambassador, representing the EU presidency, to formally object to the sanctions targeting Iranian entities, including shipping lines.
Iran’s Global Assassination Campaign Extends to Critics in Canada
Since 1979, Iran has systematically targeted opponents abroad through assassinations. Canadian authorities recently thwarted an Iranian plot to kill former Justice Minister Irwin Cotler, a vocal Tehran critic. Cotler, 84, was warned on October 26 of an imminent threat within 48 hours, allegedly planned by Iranian operatives. Despite retiring in 2015, he remains a global human rights advocate. Simultaneously, Iran’s regime has intensified internal repression, issuing death sentences against political prisoners, ethnic minorities, and foreign nationals, according to Human Rights Watch.
Iran Reports $32.52 Billion Non-Oil Exports, Gas Surges
Iran’s non-oil exports reached $32.52 billion in the first seven months of the year, a 14.72% rise from last year, according to Exports Union President Mohammad Lahouti. Customs data show 88.7 million tons of non-oil goods were exported, excluding crude oil and fuels. Simultaneously, Iran’s gas refineries produce 840 million cubic meters daily, meeting over 75% of the country’s energy needs. Production Coordination Director Mohammad Reza Julaei emphasized advanced facilities processing sour gas for domestic, industrial, and export purposes, reflecting the energy sector’s critical role in Iran’s economy.
Dutch Law Firm Allegedly Facilitated Iranian Oil Sales
Investigations by Dutch radio station BNR revealed that Dutch law firm ILFT allegedly helped Iran’s oil industry evade U.S. sanctions for years. The report claims ILFT played a key role by establishing at least six shell companies since 2020 and using intermediaries as managers to conceal the true ownership of oil tankers, enabling continued Iranian oil sales under sanctions.
Names Kept Secret: Top Candidates to Succeed Khamenei
The Assembly of Experts has reportedly identified three prioritized candidates to succeed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, though their names remain confidential, according to temporary Isfahan Imam and Assemblymember Abolhassan Mahdavi. This announcement comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, fears of an Israeli assassination attempt on Khamenei, and concerns over potential public unrest in the event of his sudden absence.
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★ SYRIA
Israel Advocates U.S. Sanction Freeze on Assad to Trump Administration
Israel’s Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer has engaged with the incoming U.S. administration to advocate a conditional freeze on sanctions against Bashar al-Assad, according to reports from Al Joumhouria and Ynet. Dermer presented the case that easing sanctions could compel Assad to enforce stringent measures against Hezbollah arms smuggling, particularly along the “Iranian highway,” a vital route connecting Tehran to Lebanon via Iraq and Syria. Dermer’s efforts in Washington followed a Moscow meeting where he initially presented the idea. Israel would not benefit if sanctions on Assad are lifted simply because during the last four years, sanctions were not being implemented and various waivers were granted to both Iran and Assad by the Biden administration. During this time, Assad became a top drug cartel producing Captagon and shipping it across the world. Two years after the Biden administration shift of policy towards, the October 7 assault happened. Captagon pills were found in the pockets of the Hamas perpetrators. Subsequent accounts from USA Today and Semafor corroborated these findings, citing unnamed officials from the IDF and the U.S. government. The Syrian supply chain funneling weapons and drugs from Iran to Iraq and Hezbollah remains fully operational, posing a significant security threat not only to Israel but also to neighboring nations, mostly Jordan. In his November 15, 2024, Middle East Institute report, Charles Lister examines Hezbollah’s deep-rooted presence and growing influence within Syria, reinforcing its collaboration with the Assad regime. Hezbollah operates from over 12 military bases and strategic hubs, dominates military R&D alongside Iran’s IRGC at Syrian centers, and maintains a clandestine military and intelligence presence. The FINANCIAL TIMES recent analysis says that Assad’s hold on power relies heavily on Iran and Hezbollah. He has allowed southern Syria to be used for launching rockets and drones into Israel by Iranian-backed militias but has refrained from direct military engagement, likely to avoid a larger Israeli assault that could threaten his regime. Meanwhile, Arabic media continues to report how Tehran is reinforcing its Revolutionary Guard-affiliated militias, which continue attacking U.S.-led coalition bases and U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
Strikes in Palmyra Kill Militants, Destroy Warehouse
Opposition outlets, including Tadmur News Network, shared footage of airstrikes targeting Palmyra, reportedly hitting military-linked sites and killing non-Syrian nationals. The strikes, allegedly reported by SANA were launched from the Tanf area, targeted the Al-Madmar region near Military Security Branch 221, along with two locations in the industrial area and near the cemetery. Two strikes in the Al-Jam’iya area reportedly hit positions of Iraqi and Afghan militias, while a third strike destroyed a warehouse in the city’s industrial zone. Syria’s Defense Ministry confirmed the strikes, blaming Israel for targeting multiple buildings in the Syrian desert. The Israeli military said it did not comment.
U.S. Warplanes Strike Iran-Backed Militia Positions in Deir ez-Zor
For the third time in under 10 days, U.S. warplanes targeted positions of Iran-backed militias in Deir ez-Zor’s Mayadin, Quria, and Ashara desert areas. The strikes followed a missile landing near the U.S. base in Al-Shaddadi, Hasakah. Meanwhile, Tehran is reinforcing its Revolutionary Guard-affiliated militias, which continue attacking U.S.-led coalition bases and U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
Oldest Alphabet Discovered in Syria Challenges Writing Origins
Archaeologists from Johns Hopkins University unearthed clay cylinders in Syria’s Umm el-Marra, bearing engravings dating back to 2400 BCE—500 years before previously known alphabets. This groundbreaking discovery, tied to Early Bronze Age tombs, challenges existing theories about the alphabet’s Egyptian origins and its role in early civilizations. Engravings suggest practical uses, potentially as labels, though their exact meaning remains speculative. The find highlights earlier-than-expected experimentation with communication systems in unexpected locations, reshaping the narrative of writing’s evolution. This finding suggests that ancient Syrians were pioneering innovators in written communication, developing alphabetic systems that predate and challenge traditional narratives of writing’s origins. Details will be shared at the American Society of Overseas Research’s Annual Meeting.
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★ IRAQ
Baghdad Aligns with Tehran: Militias Prepare for Israeli Escalation
Iran is reportedly smuggling missiles and drones to Iraqi militias via tankers, driving a surge in drone attacks on Israel, with incidents rising from six in August to 155 between October and November. In response, Israel warned of targeted strikes and assassinations, citing its right to self-defense in a letter to the UN. Iran-aligned militias claimed responsibility for a drone attack on Eilat and pledged intensified operations against U.S. and Israeli interests over Gaza and Lebanon. During a cabinet meeting addressing these tensions, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani denounced Israel’s warnings as a pretext for aggression, reaffirming Iraq’s sovereignty and rejection of war while expressing steadfast support for the Palestinian and Lebanese people. Meanwhile, Iraqi resistance group Ansar Allah Al-Awfia vowed to counter any Israeli escalation, pledging to sustain operations against Israel despite the threats.
Iraq’s Judicial Failures: Torture, Executions Rise, 8,000 Await Death
A 19 November report accused Iraq of systemic judicial abuse, including torture-tainted confessions, denial of fair trials, and executions carried out without informing families or lawyers. Around 8,000 people remain on death row, with allegations of mistreatment at Nasiriyah Central Prison. Discrepancies in death certificates further suggest irregularities in execution procedures. HRW called for an execution moratorium and comprehensive judicial reforms to ensure compliance with international standards.
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★ YEMEN
Turkish Ship Seized by Houthis in Erroneous Red Sea Operation
Houthi forces claimed on Wednesday to have seized an Israeli vessel during a military operation in the Red Sea, later transferring it to Yemeni shores. The ship, carrying food to Karachi, Pakistan, was hit with missiles. The operation, directed by Ansarullah movement leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi, was accompanied by assurances that the now hostage crew was being treated according to Islamic values. However, the situation took an unexpected turn when Turkish authorities clarified that the targeted vessel was in fact the Turkish-owned, Panama-flagged cargo ship Anadolu S. Houthi spokesperson Yahia Saree asserted that their forces had struck Anadolu S with multiple ballistic and naval missiles, describing the strike as “accurate and direct.” Notably, Saree failed to acknowledge the vessel’s Turkish ownership or its lack of any connection to Israel or the United States. Meanwhile, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced that the U.S. military would escalate efforts to counter Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping, aiming to diminish their operational capabilities.
Houthis Target German Shipowners with Email Threats
The German Shipowners Association (VDR) disclosed that Houthi rebels are sending threatening emails to intimidate shipping companies. Irina Heisler, VDR board member and maritime security policy officer, reported that the Houthis have obtained specific email addresses and are issuing threats directly to individual contacts. She described the actions as deliberate attempts at intimidation, according to The Maritime Executive.
UN Security Council Demands Release of Galaxy Leader Crew
The UN Security Council called on the Houthi group to immediately release the Galaxy Leader and its 25-member crew, illegally detained since November 19, 2023. In a statement, the Council condemned Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden and stressed the importance of protecting maritime rights under international law.
Tribal Clashes with Houthis Erupt in Al-Jawf
Armed clashes broke out late last night between the Bani Nawf tribe and Houthi militants in Al-Jawf province, northeastern Yemen. The violence, near the strategic Labnat Camp east of Al-Hazm, followed the killing of a tribesman, Jaber Hamad Jareem Al-Nawfi, by Houthis at a checkpoint. The Houthis have long targeted opposition tribes at checkpoints, continuing widespread abuses in their controlled areas.
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★ TURKIYE
Shin Bet Chief Visits Turkiye to Discuss Hostage Release
Citing sources involved in the matter, the report says the pair discussed efforts to restart the Gaza ceasefire-hostage talks and the possibility of Turkish assistance. Ronen Bar, Shin Bet chief, met with İbrahim Kalın, head of Turkiye’s intelligence agency. The Turkish officials clarified that Turkiye will not act as a mediator in the negotiations but will focus on exerting pressure on Hamas.
Turkiye’s Deficit Persists Despite $90 Billion Investment Boost
Turkiye’s economic deficit remains a critical challenge, with an international investment gap of $318.1 billion recorded in September 2024. Despite a $90 billion boost in foreign investments and a 6.7% increase in assets to $354.8 billion, the deficit still represents a 94.3% shortfall. Exports to Arab countries reached $40 billion in 2024, led by grains, chemicals, and jewelry, with Iraq and the UAE as top importers. Trade with Africa is projected to climb to $50 billion, up from $37 billion in 2023, supported by $10 billion in investments and expanded Turkish Airlines routes. Additionally, Turkiye plans $80 billion in renewable energy investments by 2035, aiming to quadruple wind and solar capacity, save $11 billion annually on energy imports, and achieve net-zero emissions by 2053.
Turkiye Launches Cybersecurity Agency Following Israeli Attacks on Lebanon
Turkiye is creating a new cybersecurity agency under the presidency to address increasing global cyber threats, including recent Israeli cyberattacks on Lebanon. Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz detailed initiatives such as the establishment of the country’s first cybersecurity high school, vocational training programs, and specialized university degrees. The proposed agency will manage cybersecurity operations, certify companies, and safeguard national security. The Turkish Parliament is set to review the proposal as part of Turkiye’s broader vision for advancements in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Qatar’s FM in Tehran to Negotiate Hamas’ Fate
Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs arrived in Tehran on Wednesday, leading a delegation in response to an invitation from Araghchi. This visit coincides with discussions about the relocation of Hamas leadership, following Qatar’s confirmation of their departure from Doha. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al-Ansari confirmed Hamas negotiation leaders are not in Doha, traveling between various capitals. The Qatari Foreign Ministry clarified that the Hamas political office in Doha has not been permanently closed. Tehran is reportedly one of the proposed destinations for the militia’s leadership. Following U.S. warnings against Turkiye hosting Hamas officials, a Turkish diplomatic source denied reports of Hamas relocating its political office to Turkiye, stating that movement members visit only intermittently.
King Abdullah II Conducts Fraternal Visit to UAE, Discusses Lebanon and Gaza
Jordan’s King arrived in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday for a ‘fraternal visit’ to the UAE, reports Sky News Arabia. The President of the United Arab Emirates and the King of Jordan affirmed the necessity of intensifying efforts to prevent the escalation of conflict in the Middle East, which threatens the region’s security and stability. They reiterated the unwavering Emirati-Jordanian stance on preserving Lebanon’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, while standing in solidarity with the Lebanese people. The leaders also emphasized the importance of establishing a clear path toward a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace based on the two-state solution, ensuring security and stability for all.
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★ EGYPT
Egypt Pursues Strategic Investments in Energy, Agriculture, and Industry
Egypt is advancing key projects in energy, agriculture, and industrial development to bolster economic resilience. UAE’s Al Dahra plans a $200 million investment for 80,000 acres by 2025, enhancing its position as Egypt’s leading citrus exporter and major grain producer. In energy, gas production rose by 200 million cubic feet and oil output by 39,000 barrels per day in Q3 2023, while talks with the U.S. target securing long-term LNG import agreements to address shortages. The El-Dabaa Nuclear Plant progresses with Russian collaboration, aiming for a 4,800 MW output by 2028, and a $21 million EBRD loan will expand wind energy in the Gulf of Suez. Industrially, Turkiye invests $40 million in Ismailia’s Qantara West zone, expected to generate $320 million in exports annually.
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