★ SYRIA
Israeli Airstrikes Devastate Syrian Military Infrastructure in Escalated Campaign
Israeli warplanes launched over 60 airstrikes within five hours, hitting Tartus and multiple locations across Syria, including ballistic missile tunnels, weapons depots, and military sites. The strikes destroyed critical assets such as air bases, helicopters, and naval equipment, with explosions from missiles shaking mountainous areas and sending shockwaves tens of kilometers away. In Tartus alone, over 10 raids burned the city for eight hours, causing fires, panic, and a 3.0 magnitude tremor. Major General Kamal Al-Moussa estimated 85% of the Syrian army’s equipment has been destroyed in these operations. Since Assad’s fall, Israel has conducted 500 strikes, citing national security concerns and the dismantling of hostile weapons to maintain regional stability.
Israel Approves Plan to Expand Golan Heights Settlements
The Israeli government approved a plan on Sunday to expand settlements in the occupied Golan Heights, citing Syria’s instability as an opportunity to strengthen border security and advance settlement growth. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated, “Strengthening the Golan is strengthening Israel. We will continue to hold onto it, cause it to blossom, and settle in it.” The move comes during a power vacuum in Syria following ongoing turmoil in the region.
Russia Reorganizes Forces, Evacuates Diplomats After Assad’s Regime Collapse
Russia has shifted military forces and evacuated diplomats following Bashar al-Assad’s regime collapse. Tanks and equipment were withdrawn from Damascus to Latakia, with satellite images revealing Antonov An-124 cargo planes at Hmeimim Airbase preparing for transport. Personnel from Belarus, North Korea, and Abkhazia were also evacuated. While Russia retains its main bases in Syria, reports indicate troop withdrawals from northern and coastal areas. Ahmed Shar’a highlighted Russia’s frustration with repeated efforts to sustain Assad’s regime, warning of potential escalations.
Global Powers Engage Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham on Syria’s Transition
The UK, US, and Russia have opened diplomatic channels with Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), designated a terrorist group in Britain. Following HTS’s takeover in Syria, forcing Bashar al-Assad to flee to Moscow, talks focus on establishing an inclusive government, securing chemical weapons, and ensuring stability. After meetings with regional ministers, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized Syria’s political transition. Russia confirmed ongoing negotiations with Syria’s new leadership while maintaining its military bases, signaling coordinated global efforts for long-term peace.
Syrian Pound Gains 20% Against Dollar in Two Days
The Syrian pound surged by at least 20% against the dollar over the past two days, following an influx of Syrians from Lebanon and Jordan and the lifting of strict foreign exchange controls after Bashar al-Assad’s government fell. Currency exchange workers in Damascus reported rates ranging between 10,000 and 12,500 pounds per dollar on Saturday, a significant improvement from the previous 15,000 pounds, reflecting 20% to 50% fluctuations due to heightened market volatility.
UN Envoy to Syria Supports Lifting Sanctions on HTS
UN Special Envoy to Syria, Geir Pedersen, arrived in Damascus on Sunday, marking the first visit by a senior UN official since Bashar al-Assad’s regime fell. Upon arrival, Pedersen expressed support for lifting sanctions on Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). He emphasized the need for “credible justice to prevent retaliatory actions” and highlighted Syria’s urgent requirement for humanitarian assistance.
70 Killed in Six ISIS Attacks in Syrian Desert
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that ISIS carried out six attacks in the Syrian desert following Bashar al-Assad’s departure on December 8. The attacks killed 70 people, including civilians and military personnel, most of whom were Assad regime forces. The rise in ISIS activity has sparked concerns about the group’s resurgence in Syria.
Syria Negotiates with Iraq to Repatriate 2,000 Soldiers
Syria’s new leadership is negotiating with Iraq to return over 2,000 soldiers who fled a week ago. The new authorities issued a general amnesty for conscripts from the ousted Assad regime. The soldiers were sheltered in Iraqi camps after Syrian forces in Al-Bukamal withdrew with equipment and surrendered to the Iraqi army, according to local sources.
Germany Vows Full Accountability for Assad’s Supporters
German ministers Annalena Baerbock and Nancy Faeser warned Assad regime supporters against hiding in Germany. Baerbock stated that all accomplices will face the full force of the law for their crimes, urging close international intelligence cooperation. Faeser highlighted strict border checks, affirming that Germany relentlessly pursues such crimes and aims to deter regime figures from seeking refuge.
Archive Reveals Assad’s Systematic Crimes Against Syrians
The Justice and Accountability Commission collected 1.3 million files over 13 years, proving Assad’s responsibility for torture, executions, chemical attacks, and systemic oppression. Smuggled to Europe, the archive supported 13 international cases against Syrian officials. The field team faced deadly risks gathering these crucial documents. Investigator Bill Wiley emphasized the evidence surpasses Nuremberg Trials in scale, predicting Russia may sacrifice Assad to secure interests. The archive, history’s most documented regime crimes, is pivotal for future prosecutions.
Syria Ends Conscription and Dissolves Armed Factions
Ahmed Al-Sharaa announced the dissolution of armed factions, exclusive state control over weapons, and the end of mandatory conscription. Plans include raising salaries by 400%. Previously, conscription lasted up to 21 months but was extended indefinitely during the war, causing widespread evasion. Recent offensives by armed factions led to the capture of major cities, including Damascus, and Bashar al-Assad’s exile to Russia, signaling a major political shift in Syria’s governance and stability.
British-Origin Chemicals Found in Syrian Captagon Factory
A Telegraph report revealed that chemicals discovered in a Captagon factory in Douma, Damascus countryside, were of British origin. The factory, previously controlled by Bashar al-Assad’s regime, contained chloroform, formaldehyde solution, hydrochloric acid, petroleum ether, and ethyl acetate, stored in containers from Suffolk-based Surechem. The company confirmed it exported these materials in 2010, its final shipment before the Syrian uprising in 2011 and subsequent sanctions. Surechem stated the chemicals were intended for general laboratory use.
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★ ISRAEL
Netanyahu, Trump Discuss Syria Crisis, Gaza War, Hostage Deal
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump discussed the situation in Syria, the Gaza war, and ongoing hostage negotiations. U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan highlighted Netanyahu’s willingness to finalize a hostage deal and achieve a Gaza ceasefire, attributing Hamas’s shifting stance to Assad’s regime collapse and the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire. While no official details were disclosed, Sullivan stressed the urgency of releasing hostages and ending the conflict, underlining changing regional dynamics.
Greece Finalizes $630 Million Israeli Artillery Deal
Greece is finalizing a $630 million deal to purchase 36 PULS rocket artillery systems from Israel’s Elbit Systems, featuring a 300 km range. Pending parliamentary approval in early 2025, the agreement includes Greek-based component construction and supports defense along northeastern borders and Aegean islands. Greece also approved US-made Switchblade drones as part of a broader military modernization plan. The move enhances military capabilities during longstanding tensions with Turkiye over territorial, energy, and regional sovereignty disputes.
Israel Closes Embassy in Ireland, Strengthens Ties with Moldova
Israel closed its Dublin embassy, citing Ireland’s anti-Israel policies, including joining an ICJ case accusing Israel of genocide. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar emphasized prioritizing ties with supportive nations and announced a new embassy in Moldova, reflecting strong bilateral relations. Tensions with Ireland escalated after it recognized Palestine and actions following the October 7 Hamas attacks. The move aligns with Israel’s policy shift to focus on cooperative allies while reducing engagement with adversarial countries.
Israelis, Jordanians Discuss Syrian Rebel Surge and Regional Security
Israeli and Jordanian officials secretly met to address security challenges after Assad’s ousting. Talks focused on threats from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), countering Iranian weapon smuggling, and stabilizing Syria. Israel’s Shin Bet director and Military Intelligence Chief met Jordanian intelligence head Ahmad Husni. Both nations coordinated with Syrian insurgents for political transition and regional security. The meeting emphasized Jordan’s critical role as a strategic ally for Israel and the US in maintaining Middle East stability.
Katz Urges Defense Budget Increase Due to Syrian Threats
Defense Minister Israel Katz called for a defense budget increase, citing threats following Assad’s ousting by Islamist forces. He highlighted Israel’s recent operations to destroy Syrian military assets and prevent jihadists from acquiring strategic capabilities. Katz emphasized maintaining military readiness, including securing Mount Hermon’s border region. While Syria’s new leader Ahmad al-Sharaa prioritized rebuilding, Katz stressed Israel’s commitment to counter threats and adapt its military strategy to address evolving regional security challenges effectively.
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★ LEBANON
Hezbollah Chief Acknowledges Arms Route Loss, Warns Against Israel Ties
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem confirmed losing its Syrian arms route after Assad’s fall but vowed to find alternatives. He urged Syria’s new rulers not to normalize relations with Israel. Rebel leader Ahmad al-Sharaa condemned recent Israeli airstrikes as escalatory but stressed avoiding further conflict.
IDF Enforces Ceasefire and Confiscates 10,000 Hezbollah Weapons in Southern Lebanon
The IDF seized over 10,000 Hezbollah weapons and destroyed rocket launchers, anti-tank missiles, and RPGs across 16 districts in southern Lebanon. Operations, led by Divisions 91 and 98, dismantled 1,000 sites near the Litani River and 300 in Khiam and Marjayoun. Airstrikes targeted Hezbollah operatives violating the November 27 ceasefire, killing over 20 militants. Despite repeated truce violations, the IDF remains committed to securing Israel’s borders, dismantling Hezbollah’s infrastructure, and ensuring Lebanon’s army assumes control by January.
Lebanese-Syrian Agreements Under Review Following Assad’s Fall
Over 40 agreements signed between Lebanon and Syria since 1990 are under review after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. These treaties, including the “Brotherhood and Cooperation Treaty,” are criticized for undermining Lebanese sovereignty and favoring Syrian dominance in political, economic, and security sectors. Experts call for legal and constitutional reviews to revise or annul outdated and imbalanced agreements. Advocates emphasize the need to safeguard Lebanon’s independence, ensuring new arrangements align with its national interests and current geopolitical realities.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Report Accuses Hamas of Inflating Casualty Figures, Exposes Prison Torture
The Henry Jackson Society alleges Hamas inflated Gaza war casualty figures, including natural deaths and failed rocket launch fatalities, to misrepresent Israel’s actions. Misreported identities and anomalies in reported ages further questioned the accuracy of figures. Separately, IDF footage revealed Hamas guards torturing detainees in Gaza’s Al-Kateeba prison, showcasing severe abuse and inhumane conditions. The revelations counter Hamas’s claims of distancing itself from Assad regime-like practices, exposing brutality within its internal security operations.
Israel Accused of Targeting Hostages in Gaza Bombing
The Al-Qassam Brigades claimed Israel intentionally bombed a Gaza site holding hostages, repeating strikes to ensure fatalities. Fighters reportedly rescued one hostage, though their condition is unknown. Stalled prisoner exchange negotiations centered on border control and security disagreements. Gaza suffers over 151,000 casualties, mostly women and children, alongside widespread destruction and famine. International criticism intensifies as Israel’s actions, backed by the U.S., exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Palestinian Factions Intensify Operations Against Israeli Forces in Gaza
Al-Quds Brigades targeted Israeli forces in Rafah with mortars and rockets, while Al-Qassam Brigades ambushed troops in Jabalia, destroying a truck and seizing a bulldozer. Both operations caused significant casualties and damage to Israeli military assets. These actions, part of retaliation against intensified Israeli bombardments and sieges on Gaza, highlight the factions’ tactical resistance and their ongoing confrontations with Israeli forces across multiple fronts in the region.
Israeli Airstrikes Kill 47, Intensify Gaza’s Humanitarian Crisis
Israeli airstrikes killed 47 Palestinians, including 10 in Deir al-Balah and 5 in a Jabalia school. Gaza’s Health Ministry reported 55 deaths and 170 injuries in 24 hours, raising the toll to 44,930 deaths and over 106,000 injuries since the conflict began. Evacuation orders in southern Gaza have worsened displacement, with officials warning of catastrophic conditions as 70% of victims are women and children. The situation highlights an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the region.
Israeli Strike Kills Gaza Mayor Linked to Hamas Operations
An Israeli airstrike killed Deir al-Balah Mayor Diab Emad al-Jaro, accused of aiding Hamas’s military wing. The IDF stated al-Jaro maintained ties with militants and misused civilian infrastructure for planning attacks. Targeted in a humanitarian zone building, the strike killed 11 people. The IDF emphasized precision measures to minimize civilian harm while accusing Hamas of violating international law by using humanitarian infrastructure for militant activities in the Gaza Strip.
IDF, Shin Bet Neutralize Hamas Command Center in Gaza
The IDF and Shin Bet conducted targeted operations in Gaza, eliminating dozens of Hamas terrorists and dismantling weapons in Beit Hanoun and Beit Lahiya. An IAF strike destroyed a Hamas command center in northern Gaza, previously used for coordinating attacks. These actions disrupted operational capabilities and neutralized imminent threats. Precise measures, including advanced munitions and surveillance, minimized civilian harm while ensuring the success of counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
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★ IRAQ
Blinken Visits Iraq to Advance Syria Diplomacy
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made an unannounced visit to Iraq on Friday, meeting with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to discuss Syria’s future. Blinken focused on addressing regional security challenges and opportunities while reaffirming U.S. commitment to engaging all Syrian communities to support an inclusive political transition.
Iraq and France Discuss Syria’s Future and Regional Security
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani stressed collective efforts to help Syrians rebuild their state through an inclusive political process, ensuring sovereignty and territorial integrity for regional stability. French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed France’s support for Iraq’s security, counterterrorism efforts, and its vital regional role, according to an official statement.
Iraqi Sunni Leaders Call for Reform During Regional Shifts
Six Sunni leaders, including Mahmoud al-Mashhadani, Osama al-Nujaifi, and Saleh al-Mutlaq, urged “national dialogue” and resolving detainee issues, addressing Shia dominance. Their statement follows Assad’s fall, signaling calls for change in Iraq. Mohammed al-Halbousi notably abstained.
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★ IRAN
Israel Prepares Military Strike On Iran After Weakening Syrian Army
Israel’s attacks on the Syrian army’s military capabilities advanced Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plans for a broad strike on Iran. Netanyahu, long driven by a 13-year aspiration to dismantle Iran’s nuclear project, now sees it as a tangible goal. Encouraged by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, Netanyahu is bolstered by a key ally supporting this move. Israeli military and intelligence officials view this strike as a monumental task exceeding Israel’s independent capabilities.
Trump Considers Preemptive Strikes To Prevent Iranian Nuclear Bomb
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is exploring options to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, including potential preemptive airstrikes. This approach would break from existing U.S. policy focused on containing Iran through diplomacy and sanctions. The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump’s transition team is discussing Iran’s weakened regional position following Assad’s fall in Syria and Israel’s actions against militias like Hezbollah and Hamas. Transition officials stated that Iran’s regional vulnerabilities and revelations of its nuclear progress have intensified sensitive internal discussions, though deliberations remain in the early stages.
Iran Vows Not To Obstruct IAEA Inspectors’ Mission
Iran pledged not to hinder the mission of United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors at its nuclear sites. Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, stated on Saturday that Iran will allow IAEA representatives full access to inspect its facilities. Iranian media quoted Eslami saying, “We have not and will not impose any obstacles on inspections and monitoring conducted by the IAEA.”
Tehran Sentences Iranian-American Journalist To 10 Years In Prison
An Iranian court sentenced Iranian-American journalist Reza Vali Zadeh to 10 years in prison for alleged cooperation with a hostile government. Vali Zadeh, a former journalist for the Persian Service of U.S.-funded Voice of America, also worked for Radio Farda, a division of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty under the U.S. Agency for Global Media. His lawyer, Mohammad Hossein Aghasi, stated on Saturday that Tehran’s Revolutionary Court issued a preliminary verdict against his client for collaborating with the U.S. government, labeling it as hostile.
Iran Demands $30 Billion Debt Repayment From Syria’s New Government
Former Iranian MP Heshmatollah Falahatpisheh stated that any new Syrian government must repay debts owed to Iran, estimated between $20-30 billion. He emphasized the importance of formalizing this demand under international law, noting Syria’s obligation to fulfill these payments despite Bashar al-Assad’s government collapse. Falahatpisheh added that Iran must document its claims to ensure the new Syrian political and administrative structure adheres to repayment commitments benefiting the Iranian people.
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★ YEMEN
Yemen Calls for New U.S. Strategy to Counter Houthi Threats
The internationally recognized Yemeni government urged the United States to adopt a new strategy to address escalating Houthi threats to Yemen and the region. Yemeni Ambassador to the U.S., Mohammed Al-Hadhrami, stated before the U.S. Senate that “a new U.S. strategy on Yemen is crucial to help us defeat the Houthis, restore state institutions, and bring peace to the country.”
US-British Airstrike Targets Hodeidah in Western Yemen
Recent airstrikes hit Yemen’s Hodeidah, with Houthi sources reporting on Sunday that US-British forces targeted the Al-Tuhayat district in the coastal city of Hodeidah along the Red Sea, according to local media. The strikes followed a Houthi claim last Tuesday of a “special operation” targeting three US supply ships after they departed Djibouti’s port.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkiye Supports Syria’s New Administration, Targets Kurdish Units’ Elimination
Turkiye declared readiness to back Syria’s new government militarily if requested, prioritizing the elimination of Kurdish Units linked to PKK. Defense Minister Yaşar Güler emphasized preventing Syria’s division, combating terrorism, and adhering to UN Resolution 2254. He urged the U.S. to reconsider its support for Kurdish groups. Turkiye’s military presence depends on security conditions and regional stability. Syrian refugee returns remain gradual, facilitated by Turkiye under voluntary conditions as Syria’s political dynamics evolve toward cooperation and peace-building.
Turkish Embassy in Damascus Reopens After 12 Years
The Turkish Embassy in Damascus reopened after 12 years, led by Ambassador Burhan Köroğlu. Operations, suspended in 2012 during the regime’s crackdown, resumed following Bashar Assad’s ousting. Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz emphasized the reopening as a commitment to Syria’s stability, peace, and rebuilding efforts. The embassy aims to normalize life for Syrians and support economic and institutional recovery. Meanwhile, the Syrian Consulate in Istanbul continues uninterrupted, highlighting renewed diplomatic ties and regional cooperation.
Türkiye Reports 7,621 Syrians Returned Home in Five Days
Türkiye announced 7,621 Syrians returned voluntarily between December 9–13 after Syria’s liberation. Minister Ali Yerlikaya noted 1,259 returned on December 9, 1,669 on December 10, 1,293 on December 11, 1,553 on December 12, and 1,847 on December 13. Before liberation, 726 returned from December 6–8. Yerlikaya stated that 2.9 million Syrians remain under temporary protection in Türkiye. Syria’s December 8 liberation ended decades of Baath Party rule and Assad family dominance, enabling safer repatriations.
Turkiye Secures Iraq Border After PKK Clearance in Zap
Turkiye declared its Iraq border secure after clearing PKK elements from Zap through Operation “Claw-Lock,” ongoing since April 2022. Defense Minister Yaşar Güler reported 1,136 militants neutralized, over 910,000 munitions seized, and 1,327 shelters destroyed. Improved Turkiye-Iraq ties include an August memorandum for military-security cooperation. Iraq banned PKK, aligning with Turkiye’s anti-terror goals. Turkish forces monitor PKK movements from Syria to Iraq, maintaining border security and regional stability through sustained operations.
Türkiye Achieves Record $88.4 Million November Exports to Kyrgyzstan
Türkiye’s November exports to Kyrgyzstan reached $88.4 million, a 27.9% year-on-year rise. Strengthened by 19 agreements from President Erdoğan’s visit, jewelry led exports at $37.9 million, followed by apparel, chemicals, and automotive products. Istanbul dominated contributions with $65.8 million, with Bursa, Ankara, Gaziantep, and Izmir following. The growth highlights Türkiye’s strengthening bilateral trade relations, diversifying markets, and boosting economic opportunities.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Kuwait and Iraq to Resume Maritime Border Talks
The Kuwaiti-Iraqi Joint Committee will meet on Monday to discuss unresolved issues, particularly maritime border demarcation beyond point 162. Kuwait’s UN representative, Tareq Al-Bannai, recently reaffirmed Kuwait’s commitment to the Khawr Abdullah Navigation Agreement and called on Iraq to resolve the agreement’s legal status and resume technical team meetings to finalize the borders. The talks will address technical and legal aspects to advance bilateral relations.
QatarEnergy Secures 27.5% Stake in Namibian Offshore Exploration
QatarEnergy has acquired a 27.5% stake in an offshore petroleum exploration license off Namibia’s coast through an agreement with Harmattan Energy Limited, a Chevron subsidiary. Harmattan retains 52.5%, while Trago Energy and NAMCOR each hold 10%, as announced by QatarEnergy on Sunday.
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★ EGYPT &North Africa
Sisi Discusses Gaza Ceasefire And Hostage Release With U.S. Officials
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi met with U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Middle East Coordinator Brett McGurk on Saturday. The discussions focused on joint efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza, facilitate hostage exchanges, and ensure humanitarian aid delivery, particularly as winter approaches. A statement from the Egyptian presidency highlighted the attendance of Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aty, General Intelligence Chief Hassan Rashad, and U.S. Ambassador to Cairo, Herro Mustafa Garg.
Egypt Signs $600 Million Energy Deals With UAE’s AMEA Power
Egypt signed two agreements worth $600 million with UAE-based AMEA Power to build a 500-megawatt wind farm in the Gulf of Suez. The agreements, signed in the presence of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, aim to enhance Egypt’s renewable energy capabilities. The project supports Egypt’s national renewable energy strategy, targeting 42% of its energy mix from renewable sources by 2030.
Egyptian Parliament Approves €1 Billion Loan From EU
The Egyptian Parliament approved President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s decision on a €1 billion ($1.05 billion) macroeconomic support loan agreement with the European Union. Finance Minister Ahmed Kojak stated the loan is part of a broader package, including grants, concessional financing, and budget funding to support critical reforms and attract investments. Kojok reassured that Egypt reduced its external debt by $3 billion last year, adding, “We repaid more than we borrowed, and the debt is lower.”
Libya Halts Key Oil Refinery Operations During Armed Clashes
A major oil refinery in western Libya ceased operations Sunday following clashes between local armed groups that ignited fires in several tanks. The National Oil Corporation reported that the fires at the Zawiya refinery, 45 kilometers west of Tripoli, were contained. As the only refinery in western Libya, it supplies fuel to the local market. Built-in 1974, the Zawiya facility also serves as a hub for crude exports and fuel imports.
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