★ SYRIA
December 11
U.S. Conditions on HTS Removal Tie to Chemical Safeguards
Arabic outlets reported that the U.S. conditions to removing Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) from the terror list requires securing chemical weapons and counterterrorism guarantees. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Ankara on Friday, five days after Bashar al-Assad’s fall. Talks will focus on Syria’s transitional government, steps to achieve political stability, preserving the country’s territorial integrity, and a ceasefire in Minbaj between the Turkish-led Syrian forces and the American-backed Syrian Democratic Forces.
Syria to Unify Factions Under Defense Ministry Leadership
Damascus sees normalcy return after Bashar al-Assad’s fall, with the transitional government now controlling border crossings and airports. Sources confirmed the imminent resumption of their operations. Meanwhile, a high-level security and military meeting has initiated plans to restructure the Ministry of Defense, aiming to unify all factions under its command, ensuring centralized military authority and stability across Syria.
Syrian Opposition Takes Full Control of Deir ez-Zor
The Syrian opposition’s Military Operations Administration announced full control of Deir ez-Zor city and its western and eastern countryside on Wednesday, following the withdrawal of Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Opposition forces continued advancing in the eastern countryside. Meanwhile, unidentified airstrikes, likely Israeli, targeted Deir ez-Zor Airport. Opposition spokesperson Hassan Abdul-Ghani confirmed the complete capture of the airport during ongoing operations.
SDF Accidentally Shoots Down U.S. MQ-9 Drone in Syria
CNN reports that Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) mistakenly shot down a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone in northern Syria on Monday. The SDF believed the drone was Turkish and fired, considering it a threat. The incident comes amid recent clashes between Turkish-backed groups and U.S.-supported SDF forces in Kurdish-controlled areas, held for nearly a decade.
Israel Strikes Mezzeh Military Airport in Damascus Again
Israel conducted airstrikes on Mezzeh Military Airport in Damascus on Wednesday, following repeated attacks on the site in recent days. This comes after hundreds of Israeli strikes across Syria over the past two days, targeting key locations.
Rebuilding Syria’s Military Post-Israeli Strikes to Take Years, Billions
Restoring Syria’s military capabilities following Israel’s Operation Bashan Arrow will require years and billions of dollars, according to analysts. The Syrian army, once a formidable force with significant military power, was considered a potential threat to Israel before the recent devastating strikes.
Russia Helped Bashar al-Assad Escape Without a Trace
U.S. media reported Wednesday that Russia convinced former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad he would lose the battle against opposition factions and offered him and his family asylum. According to the reports, Russian intelligence agents orchestrated Assad’s escape, transporting him through a Syrian airbase while disabling the plane’s transponder to prevent tracking.
Sednaya Prison’s “Human Slaughterhouse” Unveiled in Harrowing Report
A chilling report has emerged from inside Sednaya Prison, revealing its macabre function as a site of industrialized human cruelty. Survivors and families of victims describe rooms designed for systematic body disposal, including a compression machine used to crush the corpses of detainees who perished under torture. Cars typically require 20 tons of pressure for compression, whereas this machine operates with a capacity of 400 tons, as indicated by the scale visible on the device used for compressing detainees’ bodies.
Once compressed, the remains were moved to adjacent acid tanks, where bodies were dissolved. Another adjoining chamber contained sawing machines, reportedly used to dismember corpses before transferring them to mass graves or further dissolution. Witnesses recount the pervasive stench of death and the visceral horror of these spaces. Civil defense teams have since removed many bodies from the premises, but the facilities remain a grim testament to the scale of atrocities committed. Dubbed a “human slaughterhouse” by Syrians, Sednaya Prison stands as a stark emblem of brutality, with rooms tailored for death and disposal. These revelations, including graphic accounts of acid baths and sawing equipment, have shocked survivors and the broader public. The prison’s surrounding areas are also believed to harbor numerous mass graves. This exposé underscores the calculated and inhumane measures employed within Sednaya, leaving an indelible mark on the collective memory of those who have borne witness.
December 10
Israel Targets Strategic Weapons in Syria, Plans Demilitarized Zone
Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz stated on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, that he and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed the army to establish a demilitarized zone in southern Syria following the fall of the Assad regime. Katz, during a visit to a naval base in Haifa, explained that the area would be entirely free of weapons and terrorist threats, without any permanent Israeli presence. The initiative aims to secure Israel’s northern border and prevent southern Syria from becoming a new threat base.
Captagon Pills Discovered at Mezzeh Military Airport After Israeli Strikes
Following repeated Israeli airstrikes, “Al Arabiya” and “Al Hadath” entered the Mezzeh Military Airport in Damascus, now controlled by armed factions since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad last Sunday. Inside the airport’s Air Force Intelligence branch, cameras captured large quantities of Captagon pills, some of which were damaged.
No Secret Chambers Found in Saydnaya Prison Search
The Syrian Civil Defense (White Helmets) completed a two-day search of the infamous Saydnaya Prison near Damascus, uncovering no hidden cells or chambers. Teams, guided by experts familiar with the prison, inspected all sections and surrounding areas. Despite the exhaustive effort, no evidence emerged about the fate of thousands of missing detainees, leaving families desperate for answers about their loved ones. The findings highlight the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Syria’s detainee crisis.
December 9, 2024
Israel Conducts Extensive Airstrikes Targeting Syrian Military And Chemical Weapons Sites
Following Bashar al-Assad’s regime collapse on December 8, Israel launched 250 airstrikes across Syria, targeting critical military infrastructure and chemical weapons. Strikes destroyed airports, radars, communication stations, arms depots, and research centers, crippling key defense systems and neutralizing Iranian Revolutionary Guard sites. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar confirmed the attacks aimed to prevent strategic weapons, including rockets and chemical stockpiles, from falling into extremist hands. The operations prioritized national security, dismantling Assad’s military capabilities while addressing regional stability concerns.
U.S. Charges Syrian Officers As Opposition Uncovers Tortured Bodies Post-Assad’s Fall
The U.S. Justice Department charged Syrian intelligence officers Jamil Hassan and Abdul Salam Mahmoud with war crimes, including torturing detainees from 2012 to 2019 in Mazzeh military prison. Concurrently, Syrian opposition fighters discovered 40 tortured corpses in Harasta Hospital near Damascus, showing severe abuse linked to Saydnaya prison. The Syrian Red Crescent transferred the remains for identification, drawing grieving families. These revelations intensify calls for accountability and war crime charges against Bashar al-Assad during Syria’s justice-focused transitional phase after his regime’s fall.
Netanyahu: Golan Heights Will Remain Israeli Forever
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that the annexed Golan Heights will remain part of Israel “forever,” following Bashar al-Assad’s fall. He thanked former U.S. President Donald Trump for recognizing Israel’s annexation during his first term and emphasized Israel’s commitment to ensuring its security amid Syria’s leadership changes. Netanyahu also noted that Hamas’s isolation after Assad’s fall may pave the way for a hostage release agreement but stated it is too early to confirm its success. He affirmed that military operations in Gaza will continue.
SDF Refuses Withdrawal From Deir Ezzor, 13 Protesters Killed or Injured
Thirteen people were killed or injured after the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) opened fire on protesters in Deir Ezzor, eastern Syria. Demonstrations erupted demanding the SDF’s withdrawal and the entry of Syrian opposition factions. Local sources reported that the SDF refused to leave the city despite the presence of Syrian National Army forces and military operations command surrounding the area. The protests turned deadly when the SDF used live ammunition, resulting in three fatalities and ten injuries.
Syrian Opposition Flag Raised at Embassy in Moscow
In Moscow, the Syrian opposition flag was raised at the Syrian embassy following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. An embassy representative confirmed to TASS that operations resumed “under a new flag.” Assad reportedly fled to Moscow shortly after a swift rebel offensive ended his family’s 53-year rule in Syria, marking a significant turning point in the country’s history.
Mohammed Al-Bashir Tasked With Leading Syria’s Transitional Government
Mohammed Al-Bashir, a former Minister of Development in the Salvation Government and Aleppo University engineering graduate, was appointed by opposition leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa to form Syria’s transitional government. With degrees in Sharia and Law, and expertise in administrative planning, Al-Bashir’s role focuses on ensuring a smooth power transfer and preventing chaos following Bashar al-Assad’s regime collapse. The move underscores efforts to stabilize governance and rebuild Syria during its pivotal post-regime transitional phase.
Syrian Opposition Grants Amnesty, Plans Military Unification
The Syrian opposition declared amnesty for conscripts under mandatory service, ensuring their safety. Plans were announced to unify all factions into a single military institution, following their control over Damascus and most provinces. Ahmed Al-Sharaa, the opposition leader, affirmed their commitment to the revolution, declaring, “The future is ours.”
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★ ISRAEL
Israel Enters Demilitarized Zone, Violates Disengagement Agreement
Israeli forces advanced into the demilitarized zone near the Golan Heights, reportedly reaching southern Damascus suburbs. Prime Minister Netanyahu declared the Golan Heights “Israeli forever.” The move violated the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, which established a UN-monitored buffer zone separating Israeli and Syrian forces. UN officials confirmed violations at three locations, sparking international condemnation and escalating regional tensions.
Israel Seeks to Recover Eli Cohen and Missing Soldiers
With Assad’s regime collapse, Israel hopes to recover spy Eli Cohen’s remains and missing soldiers Yehuda Katz, Zvika Feldman, and Guy Hever. Cohen’s widow urged Mossad to act, viewing Syria’s political changes as a rare opportunity. Families expressed optimism after recent Syrian prisoner releases, calling for Israel to fulfill its national responsibility to resolve these decades-long cases.
Netanyahu Dismantles Iran’s Regional Axis in 14 Months
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s 14-month military strategy dismantled Iran’s 45-year “Axis of Resistance,” targeting Hezbollah, Hamas, and Iranian-backed forces in Syria and Yemen. These calculated operations disrupted Tehran’s multibillion-dollar ambitions, exacerbated by the collapse of the Assad regime. Analyst Bardia Garshasbi praised Netanyahu’s decisive actions, criticizing U.S. Democratic leaders’ regional strategies. This reshaped Middle Eastern dynamics, significantly weakening Iran’s proxies and influence.
Netanyahu Begins Testimony in Historic Corruption Trial
Prime Minister Netanyahu, accused of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, began testifying in Cases 1000, 2000, and 4000. This marks the first time a sitting Israeli prime minister defended himself in court. Following 120 prosecution witnesses, Netanyahu’s defense challenges accusations, alleging political persecution and procedural flaws. Testifying in a secure Tel Aviv courtroom, he aims to dismantle charges he calls baseless, supported by a legal team addressing high-profile cases and controversial evidence.
IDF Destroys Assad Regime’s Military in Historic Syrian Campaign
The IDF’s “Bashan Arrow” operation conducted 350 strikes, destroying 70-80% of Assad regime military assets, including airbases, missiles, and chemical sites. Israeli Air Force and Navy targeted long-range projectiles, fighter jets, naval vessels, and radars, preventing weapon transfers to hostile groups. The campaign marks a decisive blow to Iran-aligned forces after Assad’s regime collapse, ensuring strategic security.
Netanyahu Warns Syria’s New Regime Against Security Threats
Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed Israel’s willingness to tie in with Syria’s new regime but warned against threats to Israel’s security. He confirmed airstrikes targeting Assad regime military assets to prevent misuse by jihadists or hostile groups. Netanyahu warned of retaliation if Iran reestablishes, weapons are transferred to Hezbollah, or Israel is attacked. He vowed forceful action to maintain regional stability, ensuring the new regime avoids repeating its predecessor’s mistakes.
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★ LEBANON
Israel Intensifies Lebanon Strikes, Violates Ceasefire Agreement
Israeli forces hit a home in Qleiaat and detonated buildings in Khiam and Marun al-Ras, breaching the ceasefire. Lebanon reported 176 violations since November 27, causing 4,055 deaths, 16,652 injuries, and displacing 1.4 million people.
Lebanon’s Economic Recovery Gains Global Attention Amid Post-War Reforms
Lebanon’s post-war recovery attracts international focus as it embarks on reforms and debt restructuring to stabilize governance and economy. Goldman Sachs predicts 20% economic growth by 2026, contingent on restored stability. Despite a 38% GDP decline since 2019, Lebanon seeks to regain market access through strategic investments and infrastructure rebuilding. Institutions stress the need for comprehensive reforms, targeting economic stability, improved governance, and restored services. These efforts are essential for long-term development and resilience in the country’s recovery journey.
Lebanon Files Complaint Against Assad, Condemns Israeli Golan Occupation
Lebanon has filed a complaint against Bashar al-Assad and Syrian officials over the enforced disappearance of 622 Lebanese citizens, demanding absentee arrest warrants. Lebanese authorities also condemned Israel’s occupation of the Golan demilitarized zone, labeling it a breach of Syria’s sovereignty and international law. The Foreign Ministry urged global condemnation and adherence to international resolutions. Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi confirmed strict border measures, barring entry to Syrian officials and reinforcing security protocols to uphold Lebanese sovereignty.
Israeli Airstrikes Kill Five in Southern Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Violations
Israeli airstrikes on Southern Lebanon killed five, targeting Bint Jbeil and Beit Lif despite a fragile ceasefire. Lebanese army units deployed near Khiyam, devastated by Israeli forces, while residents remain barred from returning. The November 27 ceasefire followed two months of conflict, leaving 4,000 dead and significant destruction. The agreement mandates Israeli troop withdrawal within 60 days and enhanced Lebanese and UN force deployment along the southern border.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Hamas Submits Hostage List During Ceasefire Negotiations
Hamas gave Egypt a list of 30 Israeli hostages for release during a 60-day ceasefire under humanitarian criteria. The agreement requires no attacks and demands Israeli withdrawal from the Philadelphi Corridor, which Jerusalem opposes due to security concerns. Israeli officials and Egypt discussed hostages, Gaza conflicts, and regional tensions. Families await updates, frustrated by limited transparency. Captive release progress remains cautious as negotiations address key demands, including territorial control and ceasefire conditions.
Al-Qassam Brigades Destroy Israeli Tanks, Bulldozer in Gaza Ambushes
Al-Qassam Brigades revealed footage of two ambushes in Rafah’s Al-Jneineh neighborhood, destroying a bulldozer and four Merkava tanks. The attacks, on November 28 and December 6, used “105 Yassin” shells, targeting Israeli vehicles at close range. Resistance factions, including Al-Quds Brigades, continue releasing footage of ambushes, sniper operations, and anti-armor strikes against Israeli forces across Gaza’s battlefronts.
51 Killed in Gaza Strikes, Al-Qassam Targets Israeli Forces
Israeli airstrikes killed 51 Palestinians in Gaza within 24 hours, including 25 in Beit Hanoun. Al-Qassam Brigades ambushed Israeli forces in Rafah, escalating combat amid severe humanitarian crises. Gaza’s Indonesian Hospital warned of critical shortages endangering 60 patients. Officials report 44,758 deaths and 106,134 injuries since the war began. Israeli forces report 813 soldier deaths, including 381 in ground battles, highlighting the intense ongoing conflict.
IDF Orders Gaza Evacuations After Rare Rocket Fire
Four rockets fired from Gaza toward Israel caused no damage, with two intercepted and two landing in open areas. The attack follows Israel’s extensive anti-Hamas campaign, depleting the group’s rocket arsenal. In response, the IDF ordered evacuations in Gaza’s Maghazi camp, warning civilians of repeated rocket launches from the area. Residents were directed to designated humanitarian zones for safety, as the military emphasized the need to prevent further threats from terrorist activities in the region.
Al-Quds Brigades Capture Israeli Drone Over Khan Younis
Al-Quds Brigades seized an Israeli “Ma’oz” drone over Khan Younis before its mission, revealing technical details in released footage. Resistance factions continue showcasing ambushes, sniper operations, and drone interceptions targeting Israeli forces across Gaza. This development comes amid ongoing Israeli offensives causing widespread casualties and destruction in the region.
Airstrikes Kill 25 Palestinians, Resistance Strikes Israeli Forces
Israeli airstrikes killed 25 Palestinians in Beit Lahia and Nuseirat, with explosions causing fires near hospitals and endangering civilians. Al-Qassam Brigades attacked Israeli tanks and troop carriers in Rafah, sharing ambush footage, while Al-Quds Brigades clashed with Israeli forces in Jabalia. The ongoing war has devastated Gaza, leaving thousands dead, overwhelming medical facilities, and exacerbating severe humanitarian and food crises.
IDF Airstrike Targets Hamas Operatives Behind Soldier Deaths
An IDF airstrike in Gaza killed 10 Hamas operatives responsible for an attack that killed three Israeli soldiers in Jabalia. The incident occurred during an ongoing offensive targeting northern Gaza towns, which has reportedly killed 1,750 Hamas operatives, detained 1,300, and evacuated 90,000 civilians. Thirty-four IDF soldiers have died in the campaign, launched after Hamas’s October 7 massacre, which killed 1,200 Israelis and resulted in 251 hostages being taken.
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★ IRAQ
Baghdad Transfers 430 Billion Dinars to Address Kurdistan Salary Deficit
Iraq’s federal Ministry of Finance sent 430 billion dinars to the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to cover salary shortages for October, November, and December. The KRG’s Ministry of Finance plans to disburse the delayed salaries, pending for two months, as soon as possible. This follows a previous statement from the KRG Ministry of Finance confirming efforts to resolve the salary allocation deficit.
CENTCOM Commander Visits Iraq; Continued Coalition Presence Unchallenged
U.S. CENTCOM Commander Gen. Michael Kurilla visited Iraq and Syria, emphasizing collaboration against terrorism. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s role in the anti-ISIS Coalition, with no evident push to end Coalition presence, a stance previously prioritized after Sudani assumed office in October 2022.
Iraq in Talks with Iran to Address Gas and Power Shortage
Iraq is negotiating with Iran to restore natural gas exports, which have fallen from 45 to 7 million cubic meters per day, crippling electricity production. This reduction has shut down power plants in central and southern Iraq, cutting 6,000 megawatts from the grid. Current imports generate only 1,000 megawatts, with most Iraqi power plants reliant on Iranian gas. Talks aim to normalize supply levels and resolve the crisis.
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★ IRAN
December 12
Iranian Revolutionary Guard Leader Asserts Strength After Assad’s Fall
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Commander, Hossein Salami, assured parliamentarians that Iran remains strong despite the fall of its ally, Bashar al-Assad. MP Ahmad Nadri revealed details from a closed parliamentary session, stating the meeting focused on Iran’s regional military strategies and counter-operations against Israel. The discussion also covered security, intelligence, and military dynamics in the region, emphasizing Iran’s resilience and continued strategic influence.
Iran Repatriates 4,000 Citizens Following Assad’s Fall
Iran announced the return of 4,000 citizens from Syria after armed factions seized Damascus on Sunday, marking the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani stated on Tuesday that the repatriation occurred over the past three days through ten Mahan Air flights. This swift evacuation highlights Iran’s logistical efforts amid shifting regional dynamics following Assad’s ousting.
Iranian Revolutionary Guard Confirms Troop Withdrawal From Syria
During a closed parliamentary session discussing regional developments, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard confirmed that no Iranian forces remain in Syria. Commander Hossein Salami stated that Iranian troops were present until the final moments before the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Iranian MP Ahmad Nadri shared this detail, highlighting the significant shift in Iran’s military presence in the region following Assad’s ousting.
December 11
Khamenei Attributes Assad’s Fall to U.S.-Israeli Conspiracy
Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei blamed Bashar al-Assad’s ousting on a coordinated U.S.-Israeli plan and neighboring countries’ complicity. Speaking on Wednesday, Khamenei criticized the Syrian army’s shortcomings while rejecting claims of a diminished Iranian role or weakened “Axis of Resistance.” He vowed to expel U.S. forces from the region, asserting that Syria’s developments were undeniably part of a joint American-Zionist scheme targeting regional stability and resistance movements.
Israel Uncovers 30 Suspected Iranian Spies, Raising Security Concerns
Israeli security agencies have arrested 30 individuals, mostly Jewish, suspected of spying for Iran within nine covert cells. According to four security sources, these cells represent one of Tehran’s most significant espionage efforts in decades against its longstanding adversary. The Israeli Shin Bet revealed that the alleged cells had plans, though unsuccessful, to assassinate an Israeli nuclear scientist and former military officials. This discovery underscores heightened tensions and serious security vulnerabilities within Israel.
U.S. Extends Iraq’s Sanctions Waiver on Iran for Four Months
The Biden administration extended Iraq’s sanctions waiver on Iran for four months, enabling Iran to receive approximately $10 billion from Iraq. According to Fox News, this decision came just two days after Donald Trump’s electoral victory. The waiver reflects ongoing U.S. efforts to manage regional dynamics while maintaining economic channels between Iraq and Iran.
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★ Yemen
Houthis Target U.S. and Israeli Ships; U.S. Military Repels Attack
The Houthi group announced missile and drone attacks targeting three U.S. supply ships departing Djibouti port, two U.S. destroyers in the Gulf of Aden, and military sites in Ashkelon and Jaffa, Israel. Military spokesperson Yahya Saree confirmed the success of the operations. Meanwhile, U.S. Central Command reported repelling a Houthi attack involving drones and a cruise missile on commercial ships escorted by two U.S. destroyers in the Gulf of Aden, according to a statement on the platform “X.”
UN Security Council Convenes to Address Yemen Crisis
The United Nations Security Council is holding its monthly session today to discuss the ongoing conflict and stalled peace efforts in Yemen. The meeting will begin with an open session, followed by closed consultations. Discussions will focus on the humanitarian and economic conditions, peace process developments, and the abduction of UN and civil society staff by the Houthis. UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg and Emergency Relief Coordinator Thomas Fletcher will present updates during the open session.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkiye Expands Border Security, Supports Syrian Refugee Returns Post-Assad Collapse
Turkiye has increased border crossing capacity with Syria to 20,000 daily, facilitating voluntary Syrian refugee returns following the Baath regime’s collapse. Since 2016, 737,000 Syrians have returned, with monthly figures doubling to 11,000 in 2023. Turkiye is engaging NATO to address Kurdish militant threats and ensure a unified, stable Syria. A comprehensive government roadmap involving Turkish ministries and Syrian organizations aims to support these returns. Syrian opposition now controls Damascus, while the Assad family sought asylum in Russia.
Turkiye Eyes Qatari Gas Pipeline Through Syria to Europe
Turkiye plans to rebuild Syria’s energy infrastructure post-Assad and proposes a Qatari gas pipeline to Europe via Syria. Energy Minister Bayraktar emphasized Syria’s stability and unity as essential for securing the pipeline’s success, highlighting its potential for regional collaboration and development.
Turkish FM Fidan Condemns Israel’s Actions, Advocates Palestinian Rights
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan condemned Israel’s actions in Palestine, exposing global human rights double standards. Marking Human Rights Day, he urged unbiased international efforts against brutality and highlighted Turkiye’s commitment to Palestinian rights, humanitarian aid, and combating racism and xenophobia globally.
Iran and Turkiye Strengthen Trade Relations with New Agreement
Iran and Turkiye signed a memorandum during the Joint Economic Cooperation Committee meeting in Tehran, covering trade, energy, transport, and tourism. The agreement aims to boost current trade volume from $11.7 billion to $30 billion within five years, fostering bilateral economic growth and collaboration.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Qatar to Reopen Embassy in Syria
Qatar announced it will reopen its embassy in Syria soon after finalizing arrangements. Spokesperson Majed bin Mohammed Al-Ansari highlighted the move reflects historic ties and Qatar’s commitment to supporting the Syrian people. The reopening aims to enhance coordination for delivering humanitarian aid through Qatar’s airbridge.
Saudi Arabia Officially Awarded Hosting Rights for 2034 FIFA World Cup
FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced today that Saudi Arabia has officially won the bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The decision was revealed during an extraordinary virtual conference held by Infantino.
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★ Egypt
Assad’s Fall Sparks Social Media Debates Among Egyptian Factions
The fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad ignited heated debates on Egyptian social media between opposing factions. Members of the Muslim Brotherhood, officially designated as a terrorist group in Egypt, speculated about the possibility of replicating Syria’s scenario in Egypt. In contrast, Egyptian journalists and parliamentarians dismissed such claims, highlighting the strong public support for Egypt’s government and military. They emphasized the army’s pivotal role as a stabilizing force, ensuring the nation’s security and resilience against potential threats.
Senior Israeli Delegation Visits Cairo for Gaza Ceasefire Talks
A high-level Israeli delegation visited Cairo on Tuesday to discuss a potential ceasefire in Gaza, following prolonged hostilities lasting over a year. The visit aligns with ongoing efforts, initiated after Donald Trump’s election, to broker an agreement addressing hostilities and facilitating hostage releases. A senior Egyptian official confirmed that Egypt is working to mediate a truce, support humanitarian aid delivery, and monitor regional developments. These talks underscore Egypt’s role in stabilizing Gaza and addressing the escalating crisis.
Egypt to Sell Army-Owned Companies in Privatization Push
Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced plans to offer stakes in at least 10 state-owned companies by 2025. Among them, four military-affiliated companies—Wataniya, Safi, Silo Foods, and Chillout—are set to be listed on the Egyptian Stock Exchange next year. This move reflects the government’s commitment to boosting private sector participation and enhancing economic reforms under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s leadership.
Sisi’s European Tour Opens New Markets for Egyptian Products
The Egyptian Parties Alliance, representing 42 political groups, praised President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s European tour, which included Denmark, Norway, and Ireland. The alliance emphasized the tour’s significant political and economic impact, fostering enhanced cooperation and opening new markets for Egyptian products in these countries. This initiative underscores Egypt’s strategic efforts to expand international partnerships and economic opportunities.
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