★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
Fragile Hudna: Trump’s Return Reshapes Iran-Israel Dynamics
TV7 Israel’s deep dive featured Dr. Michael Doran and Major General Gilead Aquin unraveling Iran’s regional tactics and Israel’s strategic dilemmas. Doran framed a potential ceasefire with Hezbollah as a calculated move to align Israel with the incoming Trump administration, paving the way to address Iran—the core driver of regional instability. Discover pivotal moments for Israel as it anticipates President Trump’s leadership, heralding a transformative shift in Middle East dynamics.
Israel to Vote on U.S.-Backed Lebanon Ceasefire Agreement
Israel’s government will vote tonight on a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah, described by an Israeli official as temporary and fragile. Military sources acknowledge its imperfections but highlight potential benefits, including the return of displaced northern residents. The 60-day truce under UN Resolution 1701 requires Israeli withdrawal, Lebanese army deployment, and Hezbollah’s retreat south of the Litani River, with compliance monitored by a U.S.-led committee including France. Iranian Revolutionary Guard sources indicate Hezbollah’s likely acceptance, while U.S. officials press Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to finalize the deal by Thanksgiving. The Biden administration and France are set to announce the agreement, which establishes a UNIFIL-monitored buffer zone and includes U.S. assurances against immediate threats and Hezbollah’s military resurgence. Israeli hardliners remain opposed, and the Israeli military expects a final Hezbollah missile barrage before implementation.
Northern Israelis Reject Hezbollah Cease-Fire, Demand Complete Elimination
Northern Israelis voiced outrage over reports of a Hezbollah cease-fire, fearing it would enable rebuilding and compromise future security. Kiryat Shmona Mayor Avihay Stern criticized the agreement as a surrender, urging leaders to dismantle Hezbollah entirely and prioritize safety. Residents highlighted Hezbollah’s weakened state after Israeli strikes and demanded its complete elimination. Mateh Asher Regional Council head Moshe Davidovich condemned the deal, emphasizing the psychological toll on citizens after a year of fear and bomb shelters.
Hezbollah Targets Israeli Forces and Settlements During South Lebanon Clashes
Hezbollah targeted an Israeli force during its withdrawal from Bayada, damaging two Merkava tanks and causing casualties. Clashes erupted near the Marun al-Ras-Ainata-Bint Jbeil triangle, with Hezbollah striking Israeli positions in Shamaa and Bayada, forcing a retreat. Additionally, Hezbollah launched rocket salvos at Meron settlement, Shraga base, and Avivim settlement in northern Israel, intensifying hostilities. The attacks highlight ongoing regional tensions and Hezbollah’s operational effectiveness against Israeli military units and settlements.
Hezbollah Strikes Israeli Troops, Airstrikes Wreak Havoc Across Lebanon
Hezbollah targeted Israeli troops near Khiam, causing casualties and helicopter evacuations. Israeli airstrikes devastated Beirut’s southern suburbs, including Tayouneh and Haret Hreik, causing massive destruction. In southern Lebanon, strikes on Tyre and Nabatieh killed 10, injured 17, and destroyed infrastructure, with efforts underway to reopen damaged roads. Heavy violence persists across Lebanon, with significant civilian and property losses reported as escalations intensify between Hezbollah and Israeli forces in key regions.
IAF Destroys 25 Hezbollah Command Centers In Lebanon
IAF jets struck 25 Hezbollah Executive Council targets across Nabatieh, Baalbek, Bekaa Valley, Dahieh, and Beirut, destroying command centers and intelligence hubs. The strikes disrupted Hezbollah’s ability to plan and execute attacks against Israel. The Executive Council oversees political, social, and financial activities, exploiting Lebanon’s systems for terrorist purposes. The IDF highlighted significant operational damage following the elimination of leaders like Hashem Safieddine, further weakening Hezbollah’s structure and recovery capabilities.
IDF Airstrikes Target Hezbollah Command Centers and Rocket Launcher
The Israeli Defense Forces struck Hezbollah’s anti-ship missile unit, communications rooms, and operational centers in Beirut’s southern suburbs after issuing evacuation warnings. Separately, fighter jets destroyed a Hezbollah rocket launcher in Bazouriye, used in a recent attack on Nahariya. The IDF released footage of the Bazouriye strike, emphasizing its precision and targeted strategy.
Israeli Soldiers Mock Christian Rituals in Lebanese Church, Stir Outrage
A video of Israeli soldiers mocking Christian wedding rituals inside a church in Deir Mimas, South Lebanon, sparked anger. This follows Israeli incursions into border areas, causing destruction and raising flags over ruins. Similar scenes from Gaza include soldiers looting homes, mocking belongings, and airing violent content. Such actions, including offensive songs broadcasted last year, have provoked widespread regional outrage, highlighting ongoing tensions and escalating anger across Lebanese and Palestinian communities.
IDF Strikes Disrupt Hezbollah’s Iranian Weapons Smuggling Network
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed ongoing efforts targeting Hezbollah’s Unit 4400, responsible for smuggling Iranian arms into Lebanon via Syria. Airstrikes on the Syria-Lebanon border have dismantled key smuggling routes, including a 3.5-kilometer-long tunnel operational since 2019 and multiple bridges near Al-Qusayr. Strikes also neutralized Unit 4400 leaders and damaged Hezbollah’s leadership infrastructure, significantly curbing their weapons stockpile. This military campaign, part of a yearslong operation, escalated after Hezbollah initiated attacks following Hamas’s October 7 assault on Israel, resulting in over 1,200 deaths and 251 kidnappings.
Hezbollah Rockets Injure Two as Ceasefire Talks Advance
Hezbollah rocket fire injured an elderly woman and an elderly man in Nahariya, northern Israel, amid intensified cross-border strikes preceding an anticipated 60-day truce. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) imposed stricter activity limits in northern regions, closing schools and banning large gatherings, while continuing airstrikes targeting Hezbollah strongholds and smuggling networks in Lebanon and Syria. Lebanese sources reported 31 fatalities from Israeli strikes. Prime Minister Netanyahu is set to convene the cabinet for a truce decision, as local leaders criticize the agreement for lacking robust security guarantees.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Israel Investigates Southern Command Chief Deceived by Hamas Tactics
Internal Israeli army investigations revealed Major General Yaron Finkelman, Southern Command chief, fell victim to Hamas’s tactical deception on October 7, 2023. Despite being aware of Hamas’s “Jericho Wall” invasion plan since 2022, Finkelman misjudged the threat and failed to act decisively. Warnings about increased Hamas activity were dismissed as training or preparations, and his response lacked effective measures. Criticism has mounted, and the Israeli Ministry of Defense continues investigating, with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant halting promotions for involved commanders.
Prosecutors Reject Netanyahu’s Request to Delay Court Appearance
Israeli prosecutors rejected Prime Minister Netanyahu’s request to delay his December 2 court appearance over bribery, fraud, and breach of trust charges. Netanyahu cited his focus on responding to the ICC arrest warrant for alleged Gaza war crimes as a reason for the delay. Prosecutors argued postponement undermines public trust in the judiciary and equality before the law. The Jerusalem District Court will decide whether to grant his request or proceed with the scheduled hearing.
Fierce Clashes and Israeli Strikes Cause Heavy Losses in Gaza
Al-Qassam Brigades killed and injured 10 Israeli soldiers in a Beit Lahia ambush, also targeting a Merkava tank. Clashes escalated as Al-Qassam and Saraya Al-Quds hit an Israeli command site in Netzarim with mortars. Israeli airstrikes in Rafah, Jabalia, and Nuseirat killed 11 Palestinians and injured many others. Over 2,300 Palestinians have died since Israel’s northern Gaza operation began, systematically destroying Jabalia and displacing thousands.
Al-Quds Brigades Target Israeli Forces in West Bank Clashes
The Al-Quds Brigades released footage showing explosions targeting Israeli vehicles and bulldozers in Tammun, Tubas, and Balata Camp, Nablus. They also struck military installations in the Qaneer settlement near Jenin and a guard post in the Ram On settlement, Marj Ibn Amer. The attacks, involving explosives and gunfire, highlight the group’s ability to engage Israeli forces effectively in northern West Bank areas, showcasing their ongoing resistance and operational strength against occupation forces.
IAF Strikes Hamas, Hezbollah Targets, Eliminates Terrorists, Dismantles Rockets
The Israel Air Force, guided by IDF and Shin Bet intelligence, eliminated Hamas leader Ahmad Abu Hussein and other terrorists. This included Muhammad Zakout, involved in the October 7 massacre. In southern Lebanon, IDF forces found large weapon caches and dismantled rocket launchers aimed at Israeli communities. The IAF also targeted Hezbollah command centers, weapons storage, and rocket launchers in southern and central Lebanon, reinforcing Israel’s continued counterterrorism operations.
IDF Kills Two Palestinians in Ya’bad After Explosive Attack
Israeli forces killed two Palestinians, including a teenager, in Ya’bad after they reportedly hurled explosives at soldiers. The deceased were identified as Mohammad Hamarsheh, aged 13 or 16, and Ahmad Zaid, 20. Clashes erupted during an IDF operation, with both shot multiple times. This follows a recent Jenin raid that killed nine gunmen, destroyed bomb labs, and arrested 5,250 Palestinians, including over 2,050 linked to Hamas, since October 7.
Israel Accelerates Construction of Border Fence with Jordan
Israel announced plans to fast-track constructing a security fence along its 335-kilometer border with Jordan following recent security incidents, including attacks at Allenby Bridge and the Dead Sea. Prime Minister Netanyahu aims to replicate the Egypt border fence, with military trench-digging already underway. The border includes three key crossings—Allenby Bridge, Sheikh Hussein, and Wadi Araba—which generally operate regularly but occasionally close due to security concerns, highlighting Israel’s intensified efforts to bolster border defenses.
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★ IRAN
Khamenei Calls for Death Sentence Against Israeli Leaders
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei demanded death sentences for Israeli leaders, rejecting arrest warrants as insufficient for their actions. Addressing Basij members, he specifically called for the execution of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrants issued last Thursday.
Reports Emerge on Delivery of Russian Su-35 Fighters to Iran
Unconfirmed Iranian reports suggest Russia delivered the first batch of Su-35 fighter jets to Iran, stationed in Hamadan Airbase. Persian-language channel “Chand Saniya” and Iranian outlet “Tabnak” cited conflicting Israeli media claims on the deployment of these advanced aircraft. This development could mark a significant shift in regional military dynamics.
Iran Denies Involvement in Israeli Rabbi’s Killing in UAE
Iran strongly denied involvement in the murder of Israeli Rabbi Tsvi Kogan in the UAE, according to an Iranian embassy statement. UAE authorities announced the arrest of three suspects linked to Kogan’s abduction and killing, who held Moldovan citizenship and resided in the Gulf state. Investigations into the incident continue.
U.S. Bill Proposes Sanctions Against Iran for Assassination Plots
A bipartisan U.S. bill aims to enhance penalties on foreign adversaries, targeting Iran for alleged assassination plots on American soil. The proposed legislation responds to Iran’s reported schemes to kill former President Donald Trump and other targeted killings revealed in recent criminal complaints. The bill seeks to deter foreign-backed violence against U.S. citizens.
Iran Adopts National Currencies for Trade with BRICS Members
Iran’s Central Bank Governor Mohammad Reza Farzin announced replacing the SWIFT system with national currencies for trade with BRICS countries. Speaking at the 11th Annual Modern Banking Conference, Farzin highlighted challenges from sanctions but emphasized efforts to sustain international banking interactions. Iran’s domestic “Shetab” network now leads regional financial systems, enabling smoother transactions.
Iran Temporarily Halts Gas Exports to Iraq, Threatening Electricity
Iran has temporarily suspended gas exports to Iraq for pipeline maintenance, causing a significant electricity generation drop in Baghdad and southern Iraq. Iraqi Electricity Ministry spokesperson Ahmed Moussa stated the halt will last 15 days, reducing the national grid by 5,500 megawatts. Simultaneously, ongoing maintenance of Iraq’s power plants has further decreased electricity production below 15,000 megawatts, intensifying the energy crisis.
Iran Exports $513 Million Iron Ore in Seven Months
Iran’s Steel Producers Association reported $513 million in iron ore exports from March 20 to October 21, a 6.1% annual decline. Exported volume reached 6.166 million tons, marking a 13% increase compared to 5.469 million tons in the same period last year. These figures highlight Iran’s continued significance in the global iron ore market.
Iran Asserts Oil Production Rights, Rejects Output Restrictions
Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to maintaining its oil production share, rejecting any imposed output limits. His statement precedes the upcoming OPEC and OPEC+ meeting in December, highlighting Iran’s stance against measures conflicting with its U.S.-sanctioned economic conditions. Iran seeks to protect its oil sector under mounting international pressures.
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★ SYRIA
Hezbollah Withdraws Forces From Syria’s Strategic Fatima Hills
Hezbollah’s prolonged Syrian campaign has exposed its operational vulnerabilities and diminished its regional standing. Experts note that its reliance on Syrian arms corridors faces constant disruption from Israeli strikes and intelligence leaks. Dr. Makram Rabah and Magdy Halabi highlighted Hezbollah’s reduced military footprint and logistical focus, reflecting waning influence. Dr. Radwan Sayyed observed that sectarian actions have alienated Arab communities, while Dr. Khaldoun Nabwani pointed to Assad’s alignment with Russia, sidelining Hezbollah in favor of Moscow’s strategy. Financial strain from sanctions and Iran’s limited support has forced Hezbollah to rely on illicit activities, including Captagon trafficking. Recent reports indicate the group has evacuated forces from the strategically significant Fatima Hills, a corridor linking western Damascus with Quneitra and the Golan Heights. Relocating to southern Lebanon, this withdrawal signals Hezbollah’s shrinking presence and a strategic recalibration under mounting regional pressures.
Israeli Airstrikes Hit Bridges in Homs, Disrupt Arms Smuggling
Israeli airstrikes in Qusayr, Homs Governorate, near the Lebanese border, injured two people and damaged several bridges, Syrian state media reported. The Israeli military confirmed the attacks targeted Iranian weapon-smuggling routes to Hezbollah, disrupting arms supplies. These strikes follow Israel’s intensified operations since Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack, as part of its efforts to limit Iranian and Hezbollah influence in the region.Iranian Factions Establish New Positions in Deir ez-Zor
Iranian factions affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reestablished bases and positions in eastern Deir ez-Zor following recent Israeli and U.S. airstrikes. The IRGC set up four new positions and a military headquarters along the Euphrates River, with the main base in al-Duwayr and additional positions in Mayadin, Sabikhan, and al-Quriyah. Additionally, the pro-Iran “Liwa al-Baqir” created two new headquarters in al-Asharah after concluding a training program for its members. The Afghan “Liwa Fatemiyoun” also established military positions in the Mayadin desert and redeployed forces in the region.Kurdish Forces Kill 15 Turkish-Backed Fighters in Syria
Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) infiltrated Turkish-backed positions in northern Syria, resulting in violent clashes that left 15 Ankara-backed fighters dead, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The incident occurred in Aleppo’s countryside, where the SDF, controlling significant parts of northeastern Syria, launched the attack. The Observatory, which relies on a vast network within Syria, confirmed the confrontation marked a significant escalation between the two groups in the region.
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★ IRAQ
Iraqi Militia Claims Drone Strikes on Israeli Sites
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a Shiite militia, claimed responsibility for two drone attacks on Israel, targeting a “vital site” and a “military site,” according to Xinhua. The group provided no details on the locations or casualties but stated the attacks were in solidarity with Palestinians and Lebanon. The militia pledged to escalate its operations against Israeli targets. Since the Israeli-Palestinian conflict escalated in Gaza on October 7, 2023, the group has consistently targeted Israeli and U.S. positions to support Palestinians in Gaza.
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★ YEMEN
Lenderking Visits Yemen, Highlights Russian-Houthi Cooperation
U.S. Envoy Timothy Lenderking and Ambassador Steven Fagin met with Yemen’s President Rashad Al-Alimi and Council member Othman Mujalli to discuss U.S. economic support, strategies for improving living conditions, and mitigating the humanitarian impact of Houthi attacks on oil facilities and shipping routes. Lenderking briefed Al-Alimi on regional and global developments following U.S. elections, recent de-escalation efforts, and initiatives to compel the Houthis toward serious engagement with U.N.-led peace processes. Al-Alimi reiterated the government’s dedication to achieving a just and comprehensive peace in alignment with national, regional, and international resolutions, including U.N. Resolution 2216. Lenderking, confirmed Russian experts are in Sanaa to strengthen military ties with the Houthis. Russia is reportedly discussing supplying advanced weapons, including anti-ship missiles, potentially enhancing Houthi capabilities to target ships in the Red Sea and beyond. Reports also suggest Russia may be recruiting Yemeni mercenaries, a development Lenderking described as alarming.- Houthi Landmine Kills One, Injures Two in Hodeidah
A Houthi-planted landmine killed Saleh Mujammal, 44, and injured two others in Hodeidah Governorate this week. The explosion occurred east of the July 7 Neighborhood in Al-Hali district. Mujammal, displaced by Houthi forces with his six-member family, had been collecting scrap materials for income when the landmine detonated. The incident underscores the dangers civilians face from landmines in the region.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkiye’s Exports to the US Expected to Surpass $16 Billion This Year
The Turkish Exporters Council predicts exports to the U.S. will exceed $16 billion by year-end. Exports reached $13.4 billion in the first 10 months of 2024, a 9.2% increase from last year. Recent talks with U.S. business leaders aim to strengthen trade. A delegation of 18 Turkish representatives met 120 U.S. companies in Houston. Turkiye exported $15 billion to the U.S. in 2023, its second-largest export market. Efforts to boost trade include 54 trade fairs and six trade missions in 2024.
Erdogan and NATO Secretary General Discuss Ending Israeli Atrocities in Gaza
President Erdogan met with NATO Secretary General Stoltenberg in Ankara to address Israeli atrocities in Palestine, the Russia-Ukraine war, and counterterrorism efforts. They reviewed Turkiye’s contributions to NATO and preparations for the 2026 NATO summit. Erdogan thanked Stoltenberg for his support after a terrorist attack on Turkiye’s TAI aerospace company in October, which killed five and injured 22. Stoltenberg highlighted Turkiye’s strategic importance in NATO, given its strong defense capabilities and longstanding alliance.
Fire Erupts on Russian Plane After Landing in Antalya
A Sukhoi Superjet 100 from Sochi caught fire after landing at Antalya Airport, carrying 89 passengers and six crew. All were safely evacuated, and landings were suspended until 0300 local time. Emergency units extinguished flames, which are visible in the footage showing smoke billowing from the engine. The plane, operated by Azimuth Airlines, landed at 18:25 GMT, with authorities ensuring swift response to prevent further incidents. No injuries were reported during the evacuation or recovery operations.
Turkiye’s $6 Billion Space Base in Somalia Sends Political Messages
Turkiye is investing $6 billion in a space base in Somalia to enhance its global space presence. Approved by Somalia’s parliament, the project enables rocket launches and missile testing from strategic locations. The equatorial location reduces fuel needs, while uninhabited land ensures safety. The initiative aligns with Turkiye’s broader strategy to strengthen ties with Africa and assert itself as a global player, with potential UAE involvement in financing, reflecting Turkiye’s ambition in space and geopolitical influence.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Qatari Aid Plane Delivers Medical Supplies to Beirut
A Qatari Emiri Air Force plane carrying medical aid and medicines arrived at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport on Monday. Qatar Fund for Development aids Lebanon through an air bridge, providing crucial support during Lebanon’s persistent socio-economic struggles.
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★ Egypt & North Africa
Energy Crisis Positions Israel to Deepen Gas Supply Role in Egypt
Israel views Egypt’s energy crisis, marked by rising consumption and declining gas production, as an opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties. Recent relations have weakened, but Gaza’s offshore gas field may become a pivotal factor, given that 86% of bilateral trade involves energy. Israel aims to leverage this dependence to restore stronger cooperation with Egypt.
Polish Company Plans $1.6 Billion Green Ammonia Plant in Egypt
Polish firm Hynfra announced plans to invest $1.6 billion in a green ammonia plant in Egypt, producing 100,000 tons annually initially. The project aims to supply Eastern and Central Europe, with production starting post-completion of phase one by 2030. Future expansions could increase capacity to one million tons yearly, reflecting Egypt’s pivotal role in green energy initiatives.
Egyptian Remittances Double Annually, Reaching $2.7 Billion in September
Egyptian expatriate remittances surged 100% year-on-year, recording $2.7 billion in September 2024, up from $1.3 billion previously. Central Bank data revealed a 42.6% increase during January-September 2024, totaling $20.8 billion compared to $14.6 billion in the same 2023 period. These figures underscore remittances’ critical role in Egypt’s economic stability and foreign reserves
Red Sea Tragedy: Tourist Boat Sinks Off Egypt’s Coast
A tourist boat carrying 45 passengers sank near Marsa Alam, leaving 17 missing as rescue efforts continue. “Sea Story” was a mid-dive journey when contact was lost, with 28 survivors, including tourists and crew, rescued. Egyptian authorities remain engaged in search and rescue operations to locate the missing passengers.
EU Pledges €200 Million to Support Morocco Earthquake Recovery
The European Union announced a €200 million ($210 million) aid package to Morocco for reconstruction after the devastating September 2023 earthquake. The 6.8-magnitude quake claimed over 2,900 lives and severely damaged vital infrastructure, marking Morocco’s deadliest earthquake since 1960.
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