★ SYRIA
Russia Launches Major Military Withdrawal from Syria
Russia has begun a significant withdrawal of military equipment and personnel from Syria, according to U.S. and Western officials. The operation, which started last week, follows the ouster of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Intelligence indicates Russia is exploring a potential agreement with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the dominant rebel group, to maintain access to strategic bases such as Khmeimim airbase in Latakia and the Tartus naval port. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed contact with rebels in Damascus. Despite the large scale of the withdrawal, its permanence remains uncertain.
U.S. Airstrikes Eliminate 12 ISIS Operatives in Syria
U.S. Central Command forces conducted precision airstrikes on December 16, targeting ISIS leaders, operatives, and camps in Syria. The strikes, which killed 12 ISIS members, are part of ongoing efforts to disrupt, weaken, and defeat the group. The mission aims to prevent ISIS from conducting external operations and to thwart any attempt to regroup in central Syria.
UK Diplomats Meet Ahmad Shar’a, Discuss Syria’s Future and Sanctions
British diplomats met Syrian leader Ahmad Shar’a following Assad’s fall, signaling renewed international engagement. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized support for Syria’s transitional process. Shar’a pledged to dissolve armed factions, integrate fighters into a unified Ministry of Defense, and ensure national unity. He urged lifting international sanctions to enable refugee returns and economic recovery. This meeting precedes a French delegation’s visit to Damascus as Syria’s new leadership works to stabilize governance and restore global diplomatic relations.
Israeli Ground Forces Destroy Syrian Military Infrastructure in South
Israeli ground forces destroyed Syrian military assets in southern Syria, citing threats to Israel’s security. The mission, approved due to its sensitivity, involved armored battalions and infantry units targeting strategic infrastructure. Israeli officials emphasized the necessity of eliminating these military sites to ensure regional stability and protect national interests. This marks a shift from previous airstrikes to direct ground operations, reflecting an escalation in Israel’s measures against perceived Syrian military threats.
Bashar al-Assad Reveals Details of His Final Hours in Syria
Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad stated he left Syria unexpectedly and did not request asylum in Russia. In a statement published on the former Presidential Office’s social media accounts, Assad clarified he fled to Russia after opposition forces entered Damascus on December 8. He noted difficulties in sharing his message through Arab and international media, leaving social media as the only option for dissemination.
Israeli Strikes on Syrian Coast Injure 36 Civilians
Israeli airstrikes targeted military sites near Tartus on Monday, injuring 36 civilians, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Described as the “most intense on the coast since 2012,” the strikes caused explosions at weapons depots, damaging homes and properties in the village of Bmalka. The Dreikish-Tartus road was partially closed due to the attacks.
Syrian Ports Operating Normally During Ukrainian Efforts to Ship Essential Food Supplies
Maritime officials reported on Monday that Syria’s main ports are operating normally after recent disruptions. Ukraine has stated it is in talks with Syria’s transitional government about shipping essential food supplies. The developments follow the December 8 overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad by opposition factions led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Since then, Israeli airstrikes have targeted areas near the main port of Latakia, with shipping sources also reporting labor shortages at the ports.
SDF: U.S. Mediation Fails to Achieve Ceasefire with Opposition
Farhad Shami, head of the SDF media center, stated that U.S. mediation efforts to secure a permanent ceasefire in Manbij and Kobani failed. He attributed the failure to Turkey’s reluctance to accept key mediation points, according to Reuters.
Mass Grave Near Damascus Holds 100,000 Assad Regime Victims
A Syrian rights group reported a mass grave near Damascus, containing over 100,000 bodies of torture victims under Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The site in Al-Qatifa is one of five identified locations. Bodies were transferred by Air Force Intelligence and funeral offices, often buried using bulldozers to crush remains. Witnesses, including workers forced to dig graves, confirmed the process. The organization’s head, Maad Mustafa, urged securing the sites to preserve evidence for future investigations into the atrocities.
Syria Retains 26 Tons of Gold Reserves Post-Assad Government Collapse
Syria’s central bank retains 26 tons of gold reserves, unchanged since 2011, while foreign currency reserves remain minimal. The Syrian pound recently strengthened by 20%, fueled by relaxed foreign exchange controls and the return of citizens. Exchange rates fluctuated between 10,000 and 12,500 pounds per dollar. Syria’s new government promises wage increases and improved services. However, inflation, commodity shortages, and economic hardships persist, with many families relying heavily on remittances to survive the ongoing economic crisis.
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★ ISRAEL
Biden Links Assad’s Fall to U.S. Support for Israel
U.S. President Joe Biden claimed unwavering U.S. support for Israel weakened Assad’s allies—Iran, Hezbollah, and Russia—leading to the regime’s swift collapse. Biden highlighted military pressures in Ukraine and Gaza as critical factors. Senior officials defended the administration’s policies despite Democratic criticisms over humanitarian destruction in Gaza, highlighting Israel’s successes.
including eliminating key Hezbollah and Hamas leaders, as evidence of strategic gains. Despite internal opposition, Biden maintains his Middle East approach effectively secured regional stability and weakened adversarial forces.
Israel Seeks Eli Cohen’s Remains and Missing Soldier in Syria
Israel, through intermediaries, is working to locate the remains of Eli Cohen, executed in 1965, and an Israeli soldier missing since 1982. Palestinian officials confirmed efforts involve Russia and Palestinian representatives outside Syria. Israel has previously retrieved Zachary Baumel’s remains and Cohen’s watch through Russian mediation. Recent reports indicated Russian forces excavated graves in Yarmouk Camp, south of Damascus, searching for Israeli soldiers and Cohen’s remains as part of ongoing recovery efforts.
Three Million Israelis Face Poverty as Living Costs Continue to Rise
A Latet report shows 2.76 million Israelis, including 1.24 million children, live in poverty during 2024. Rising costs—5,355 shekels monthly per person—outpace incomes, forcing 78.8% of vulnerable families into debt and 62.4% to skip meals. Children suffer academic declines, mental health issues, and increased dropouts, while 81.7% of elderly beneficiaries live in poverty, with many unable to afford food or medications. Latet warns inflation, war recovery costs, and economic measures will worsen conditions, urging immediate government intervention to reduce poverty.
Serbia Accused of Using Israeli Cellebrite Tool for Spy Campaign
Amnesty International reported Serbian officials used “NoviSpy” spyware to hack journalists’ and activists’ phones, extracting contacts and screenshots. In two cases, Israeli firm Cellebrite’s software unlocked the devices before infection. Amnesty linked suspicious phone activity to recent interviews with Serbian authorities. Cellebrite is investigating and warned of suspending Serbian access if misuse is confirmed. Serbia’s intelligence agency dismissed the report as “nonsensical,” insisting operations comply with local laws.
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★ LEBANON
Lebanon Reopens Embassy in Damascus After Recent Closure
Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati directed the reopening of Lebanon’s embassy in Damascus, previously closed during recent events. Mikati discussed the decision with Foreign Minister Abdullah Bou Habib while addressing ongoing diplomatic efforts to counter Israeli attacks and Syria’s current situation. The move signifies Lebanon’s intent to restore diplomatic ties with Syria, maintain regional communication, and navigate political challenges. Reopening the embassy highlights Lebanon’s strategic approach to ensuring representation and fostering cooperation with its neighboring country.
Israeli Airstrikes and Ground Operations Escalate in Southern Lebanon
Israeli warplanes bombed areas between Sarafand and Qa’qaiyat Al-Sanawbar, while drone strikes on Najjarieh injured three people. Israeli forces advanced into Naqoura, destroying homes with tanks and sweeping the area using heavy machine guns. These actions mark repeated violations of the ceasefire agreement announced by U.S. President Joe Biden, which requires Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon within 60 days. Persistent breaches and military operations further destabilize the region, exacerbating humanitarian concerns and undermining efforts to maintain peace.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Islamic Jihad’s Al-Quds Brigades Target Israeli Base in Jabalia
The Al-Quds Brigades, Islamic Jihad’s military wing, released footage of mortar strikes on an Israeli command center in Jabalia, northern Gaza. The operation began with precise surveillance of Israeli troops and vehicles, followed by successful artillery shelling. Israeli media described the fighting in Jabalia and Beit Lahia as intense, predicting operations would persist for weeks. Resistance factions continue documenting attacks, showcasing ambushes, significant Israeli military losses, and the destruction of armored vehicles during ongoing ground operations.
IDF Claims Al Jazeera Cameraman Killed Was Islamic Jihad Operative
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said Al Jazeera cameraman Ahmad Al-Louh, killed in a Gaza airstrike, was a former Islamic Jihad commander. The strike targeted a Hamas and Islamic Jihad command center in Nuseirat, used for planning attacks. The IDF stated it used precision munitions and intelligence to minimize civilian harm. Al Jazeera condemned the killing, accusing Israel of systematically targeting journalists. Hamas labeled the strike a war crime aimed at intimidating media and silencing coverage of Gaza.
Israeli Strikes Kill Dozens as Gaza Faces Humanitarian Collapse
Israeli airstrikes across Gaza killed and injured dozens, with medical teams unable to recover bodies or treat victims. The Ministry of Health reported 45,028 deaths and 106,962 injuries since October 7. Strikes on Shuja’iyya and Nuseirat killed multiple civilians, including children. Hospitals face catastrophic conditions due to severe damage, blocked access, and shortages of medical supplies, food, and water. Israeli forces continue targeting infrastructure and residential areas, exacerbating the dire humanitarian crisis for Gaza’s civilians.
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★ IRAQ
Iraq and Kuwait Commit to Strengthening Cooperation
Iraq and Kuwait’s Technical and Legal Committee held its seventh meeting in Baghdad, chaired by Iraqi Ambassador Abdul Karim Hashim and Kuwaiti Deputy Foreign Minister Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral relations and advancing joint cooperation, with both sides reviewing progress on the committee’s work to achieve tangible results, according to Iraq’s Foreign Ministry.
Barzani Welcomes Assurances from Syria’s New Leadership on Kurds’ Future
Iraq’s Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani commended assurances from Syria’s new government about the future of the Kurdish Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES). Despite this, many Syrian Kurds express concerns about their fate under the new administration. On December 14, Syrian Defense Minister Col. Hasan al-Hamada emphasized that Syria’s security requires eliminating “separatist schemes” of the PKK, which he claims controls eastern Syria. The PKK, a Marxist-origin separatist group established in the 1970s, is designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S., Turkey, and several European countries.
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★ IRAN
U.S. Sanctions Disrupt Iranian Oil Exports To China
Heightened U.S. sanctions on Iranian oil tankers have disrupted crude exports to China, Iran’s largest OPEC customer. A Vortexa Ltd report revealed significant delays for Iranian supertankers, particularly affecting oil flows to Shandong ports. October shipments faced extensive delays, and some November cargoes remain undelivered, according to Vortexa analyst Emma Li. The U.S. sanctions list includes 191 Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs), causing substantial disruptions to Iranian shipping activities.
Iran Closes Schools, Offices Due to Cold Snap and Energy Crisis
Iran Closes Schools and Offices Across Provinces Due to Severe Cold Snap and energy shortages caused by insufficient gas supplies. Power plants struggled to meet demand, leading to nationwide power cuts and public frustration. President Masoud Pezeshkian urged citizens to reduce heating use to conserve energy. Despite holding vast natural gas reserves, Iran’s outdated electricity infrastructure, worsened by Western sanctions, struggles to meet needs, reflecting ongoing challenges in the country’s energy sector.
U.S. Charges Two Men Over Killing Of Soldiers In Jordan
U.S. prosecutors charged two men linked to Iran over a January drone strike in Jordan near the Syrian border. The attack, carried out by Iran-backed militants, killed three U.S. soldiers and injured approximately 40 others. Prosecutors in Boston announced plans for a press conference detailing charges against an Iranian national and a dual Iranian-American citizen. The charges include export violations and providing material support to Iran connected to the drone strike.
Iran Unveils Locally Made Simorgh Aircraft At Air Show
Iran showcased its locally manufactured Simorgh light transport aircraft for the first time on December 11, 2024, during the Kish Island International Airshow. The 12th exhibition, held from December 10 to 13, featured over 300 foreign participants and displayed diverse products from domestic and international companies. Defense Minister Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh stated that the Simorgh was entirely designed and produced by Iran’s Ministry of Defense and local companies.
Iran’s Uranium Enrichment Nears Military-Grade Levels, Says IAEA
IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi stated that Iran is approaching military-grade uranium enrichment, urging alternative approaches to address the issue. Speaking Monday at the 17th Italian Ambassadors’ Conference in Rome, Grossi emphasized the unprecedented phase of Iran’s nuclear program. He highlighted this as the first instance of direct attacks occurring between Iran and Israel.
Iran Sets Record Gas Production At South Pars Field
Iran achieved a record daily gas production of 712 million cubic meters at the South Pars field, according to POGC Chairman Touraj Dehghani. This milestone was credited to over 1,500 workers operating 39 offshore platforms and 350 wells in the shared gas field. Dehghani highlighted the relentless efforts of workers, particularly during unexpected cold weather, to ensure stable production levels. With the world’s second-largest natural gas reserves, Iran ranks as the third-largest producer and fourth-largest consumer globally.
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★ YEMEN
Ballistic Missiles Fired from Yemen Toward Tel Aviv, Airport Temporarily Closed
Sirens sounded across central Israel after a ballistic missile was launched from Yemen, according to Al Arabiya/Al Hadath reports. Multiple missiles targeted Tel Aviv and central Israel on Monday, prompting a temporary closure of Tel Aviv Airport due to intercepted missile fragments.
U.S. Strikes Houthi Sites in Yemen Targeting Operations Center
The U.S. military conducted precise airstrikes on Houthi-controlled military sites in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, targeting an operations center coordinating attacks on naval and commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Explosions struck the Houthi-occupied Ministry of Defense and Al-Hafa military camp. U.S. Central Command emphasized its commitment to protecting coalition forces and ensuring the safety of international shipping. The Houthis, backed by Iran, continue targeting vessels, claiming solidarity with Palestinians during the Gaza conflict.
Houthi Terrorism Dominates Yemeni-U.S. Talks in Riyadh
Yemeni leaders and U.S. officials in Riyadh discussed designating the Iran-backed Houthi group as a global terrorist organization and cutting off its financial and military resources. The talks come as Yemenis hope for an end to the Houthi coup and the liberation of Sana’a and other regions. Regional developments, including Iran’s setbacks in Lebanon and Syria, have further fueled these expectations.
Israeli Finance Minister Warns Houthis: “They Haven’t Felt Our Strength Yet”
Israeli Finance Minister and Security Cabinet member Bezalel Smotrich issued a warning to Yemen’s Houthi group, stating they are “the only arm of Iran’s axis that hasn’t yet felt our strength.” Speaking at a meeting on Monday, Smotrich added, “Since we’ve decided not to leave any arm unsevered, I suggest everyone wait. This arm will also feel the weight of our strength.”
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★ TURKIYE
Turkey Declares Kurdish Units Will Not Exist in New Syria
Turkey vowed to eliminate the Kurdish YPG, core to the SDF, labeling it a national security threat. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan demanded foreign fighters leave Syria and the organization disband, prioritizing territorial unity and stability. Turkey supports the Syrian National Army to combat ISIS, PKK, and similar groups. President Erdoğan criticized the opposition’s stance, emphasizing strong leadership. Recent polls show rising support for Erdoğan’s AKP, reflecting approval of Turkey’s firm Syria policy and strategic objectives.
Türkiye Takes Command of NATO’s Mine Countermeasures Unit
Türkiye assumed command of NATO’s Standing Mine Countermeasures Group 2 (SNMCMG-2), overseeing mine operations in the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Black Seas. Naval Capt. Kürşat Kurnaz succeeded Romania’s Capt. Sebastian Barote during a ceremony in Erdek. Rear Adm. Stefan Pauly praised Türkiye’s contributions to NATO security, while Kurnaz pledged operational excellence and professionalism. Under Turkish leadership until July, SNMCMG-2 will participate in five major NATO exercises, including drills in Spain, Italy, and Greece, before handing command to Italy.
Turkey Denies Backing HTS as Trump Accuses It of Syrian Control
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump accused Turkey of orchestrating an “unfriendly takeover” in Syria, empowering factions that led to Bashar al-Assad’s regime collapse. Trump highlighted Turkey’s dominance over Syria’s future during a period of ongoing uncertainty. In response, Türkiye denied supporting Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), attributing the regime’s downfall to its weakness as forces fled. Justice and Development Party spokesperson Ömer Çelik reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to Syria’s territorial integrity, emphasizing military operations against PKK/YPG to prevent a “terror corridor” and ensure regional stability.
Türkiye’s Budget Deficit Shrinks to $483.8 Million in November
Türkiye’s central government budget posted a TL 16.7 billion ($483.8 million) deficit in November, improving from October’s TL 186.3 billion shortfall. Revenues reached TL 939.5 billion, while expenditures totaled TL 956.1 billion, including TL 809.8 billion in non-interest spending and TL 146.3 billion in interest payments. Tax revenues contributed to TL 819.4 billion. Türkiye recorded a TL 1.3 trillion deficit from January to November, with cumulative revenues at TL 7.8 trillion and expenditures reaching TL 9 trillion.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Israeli Officials in Doha for Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Talks
Israeli officials arrived in Doha on Monday for negotiations with Qatar to establish a Gaza ceasefire and finalize a hostages-prisoners exchange with Hamas. The discussions involve technical teams from both countries, according to an anonymous source familiar with the sensitive talks.
ADNOC Signs 15-Year LNG Supply Agreement with Germany’s EnBW
ADNOC has signed a 15-year agreement to supply 600,000 metric tons of low-carbon LNG annually to Germany’s EnBW. The deal, part of ADNOC’s Ruwais LNG project, formalizes a previously signed agreement into a binding contract, enhancing energy ties between the UAE and Europe.
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★ EGYPT
Egypt, Jordan Stress Need For Inclusive Political Process In Syria
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Jordan’s King Abdullah II emphasized the importance of initiating an inclusive political process in Syria. During their meeting on Monday, they highlighted the need to preserve Syria’s territorial integrity, ensure its security, and support its state institutions. Both nations, part of the Arab Liaison Committee on Syria alongside Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Lebanon, and the Arab League Secretary-General, reaffirmed their commitment to Syria’s unity and the well-being of its people.
Egypt’s Glass Exports Reach $397 Million In Ten Months
Egypt’s glass exports reached $397 million from January to October 2024, a 3% increase compared to $385 million during the same period in 2023. Turkey ranked as the top importer, with $65.965 million in 2024, down from $73.996 million in 2023. The U.S. recorded $41.080 million, compared to $44.320 million in 2023. Meanwhile, Brazil saw significant growth, importing $30.938 million in 2024, up from $11.508 million in 2023.
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