★ SYRIA
Julani of HTS Vows Territory Won’t Be Used Against Israel
Abu Muhammad al-Julani, leader of the Islamist group that toppled Bashar al-Assad, stated Syria will not be a launchpad for attacks against Israel. Speaking to The Times of London, he reaffirmed commitment to the 1974 demilitarized zone agreement, which serves as a buffer between the two nations. Julani expressed readiness to restore UN peacekeeping forces alongside Syrian troops. He emphasized avoiding conflict with Israel or any other party, calling for an end to strikes and urging Israel to return to previous positions. Julani highlighted that the Syrian people need relief from the ongoing conflict.
Israeli Forces Reported Near Damascus and Syrian Druze Villages
An Israeli helicopter landed near Damascus, with troops operating briefly before retreating. IDF advances were reported in buffer zones, including Hader town. Syrian Druze leaders denied annexation requests but preferred temporary Israeli presence over rebel control, citing safety concerns. Tribal sources urged minority protection mechanisms as regional instability grows. Israeli operations targeted strategic sites linked to Syria and Hezbollah, reflecting heightened military activity and security priorities in the area.
Syrian Democratic Forces Propose Demilitarized Zone, U.S. Secures Ceasefire Extension
The Syrian Democratic Forces proposed a U.S.-supervised demilitarized zone in Kobani to address Turkish security concerns during troop buildups near the border, signaling a potential assault. Concurrently, the U.S. mediated an extension of the ceasefire between Turkish-backed fighters and Kurdish forces in Manbij, set to last until the week’s end. With Turkiye conducting operations since 2016 to secure border areas from Kurdish groups it labels terrorists, the U.S.-led efforts aim to prevent escalation and promote regional stability through continued negotiations.
U.S. Ties Position on HTS to Actions, Prioritizes ISIS Prevention
U.S. State Department regional spokesperson Michael Mitchell stated Tuesday that Washington’s stance on Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) will depend on its actions on the ground. He reiterated President Biden and Secretary Blinken’s calls for a new, inclusive Syrian government that respects all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity. Speaking to Alhurra, Mitchell emphasized that preventing ISIS’s resurgence remains a top priority for the Biden administration.
Assad Fled Syria with Wealth of Gold, Money, and Antiquities
Bashar al-Assad fled Syria on the 8th of this month after opposition factions seized all regime-held areas, leaving behind a legacy of mass killings, torture, and war crimes. Ibrahim, a former negotiation official and advisor to Harakat Al-Shughl Al-Madani told Al Arabiya.net that Assad departed with “vast amounts of Syrian wealth, including money, gold, and antiquities.” He added that Assad mortgaged the country for decades through agreements with Russia and Iran.
Syrian Coalition: Supports Bashir Government, No Barriers to Resolution 2254
The Syrian National Coalition announced support for the interim government led by Mohammad al-Bashir, stating that implementing UN Resolution 2254 now rests solely with revolutionary forces after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. In a Monday statement titled “On Transitional Steps Toward a New Syria,” the coalition emphasized that Assad’s fall on December 8, following opposition control of Damascus and other cities, ended 61 years of Baath Party rule and 53 years of Assad family dominance. With the regime’s collapse, the coalition asserted there were no remaining obstacles to executing Resolution 2254 and called for its swift implementation.
U.S. Pursues Accountability For Mass Graves And Torture In Syria
The U.S. collaborates with UN bodies to address mass graves, torture, and detentions in Syria, ensuring justice for victims. Evidence reveals systemic brutality under Assad’s regime, with over 100,000 tortured and killed since 2013. Human rights groups accuse Assad of widespread extrajudicial executions and abuses. Spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized providing answers for victims’ families, while former envoy Stephen Rapp highlighted the regime’s “machine of death,” underscoring urgent calls for accountability and transitional justice efforts.
Security Council Calls for Syrian-Led Inclusive Political Process
The UN Security Council urged an inclusive political process led by Syrians after Assad’s departure, emphasizing Syrians’ right to determine their future peacefully and democratically. It reaffirmed Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, calling for all nations to respect this. UN envoy Pedersen warned of ongoing conflict in northern Syria and called for an end to Israeli settlement activity in the Golan Heights. The council discussed lifting sanctions and addressing Western nations’ response to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.
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★ ISRAEL
Netanyahu Confirms Israeli Troop Presence On Mount Hermon
Prime Minister Netanyahu confirmed that Israeli troops will remain on Mount Hermon until a secure arrangement ensures national safety. Following the Syrian rebels’ December 8 seizure of Damascus, Israel entered the UN-patrolled Golan Heights buffer zone as a temporary defensive measure. Defense Minister Katz highlighted Mount Hermon’s strategic importance for observing threats from Hezbollah in Lebanon and rebels in Damascus. Both leaders emphasized the area’s critical role in maintaining Israel’s security and regional stability.
Jerusalem Man Arrested For Spying For Iran, Planning Attack
Israeli resident Erdler Israel Amoyal, 23, was arrested for collaborating with Iranian intelligence, conducting surveillance, and planning a terror attack. Recruited via social media by operatives using aliases like “Arianna” and “John,” Amoyal photographed locations and vandalized sites for financial gain. This arrest, following similar cases, highlights Iran’s ongoing attempts to recruit operatives in Israel. Authorities stress vigilance in addressing espionage and thwarting threats to national security.
Israel Establishes Five New Reserve Brigades for Defense
Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi announced the formation of five “David Brigades” for border defense, composed of older reservists. These brigades aim to alleviate pressure on active reserve forces and enhance operational readiness. Reservists, forming 70% of Israel’s military, are key to national security, supporting 170,000 regular troops with 465,000 personnel prepared for emergencies. The initiative reflects Israel’s lessons from ongoing conflict, emphasizing the need for an expanded and adaptive military structure.
Over 75,000 Soldiers Wounded In Israeli Wars To Date
The Israeli Defense Ministry reported over 75,000 soldiers wounded in wars, including 13,500 during the current conflict. Despite reduced ground battles following Hamas’s defeat in Rafah, 2024 saw a 20% increase in wounded soldiers compared to pre-war figures. Civilian casualties during the October 7 Hamas attack significantly exceeded military numbers. Recognition day for wounded soldiers underscores ongoing challenges, with an estimated 20,000 soldiers expected to be wounded by year-end.
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★ LEBANON
Switzerland Bans Hezbollah in Policy Shift
Switzerland’s parliament banned Hezbollah, citing global security threats and aligning with anti-terrorism efforts. The decision passed with 126 votes in favor, 20 against, and 41 abstentions, despite government opposition. Switzerland clarified the ban will not impact its mediation and humanitarian roles. This marks a rare departure from its neutral stance, as Switzerland had previously banned only al-Qaeda and ISIS under UN terrorism classifications.
Lebanese Authorities Seize Hezbollah Weapons Stored in University Warehouse
Lebanese State Security confiscated a Hezbollah weapons cache in Beirut’s Msaitbeh neighborhood, stored in a warehouse rented by Lebanese University. The site contained military equipment, including night-vision goggles and combat gear, reportedly relocated during Israeli airstrikes. Judicial authorities sealed the warehouse before clearing it, sparking public outrage and embarrassment for Hezbollah over using university property for weapons storage. The incident highlights rising tensions and security concerns within Lebanon.
IDF Targets Hezbollah Weapons Transport During Ceasefire Violations
The IDF struck a Hezbollah weapons transport in Southern Lebanon, citing ceasefire violations. An Israeli aircraft targeted a vehicle in Majdal Zoun, wounding two individuals. Under the November 26 ceasefire, Hezbollah must retreat north of the Litani River as Israeli forces withdraw with UNIFIL monitoring the border. The IDF, which dismantled 300 Hezbollah sites during recent operations, reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring Israel’s security and responding to threats against its citizens.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Hostage Deal Includes Palestinian Prisoner Release And Ceasefire
A proposed deal involves releasing Palestinian prisoners and hostages, a 1.5-month ceasefire, and a partial Israeli presence in the Philadelphi Corridor. Hamas showed flexibility by dropping demands for full Israeli withdrawal from key areas. Gaza residents would return under organized security checks to prevent militant infiltration. Disputes remain over prisoner numbers and release locations. Israel emphasized combat would resume after the ceasefire to ensure border security and maintain control over strategic points in Gaza.
World Bank Reports Severe Financial Destruction in Gaza
Israeli attacks destroyed 93% of Gaza’s bank branches, and 88% of financial institutions, and left only three ATMs operational. The financial collapse hampers private sector recovery, job creation, and access to essentials like food and medicine. Gaza’s financial system, holding over $3 billion in deposits, faces severe strain, exacerbating an already devastating humanitarian crisis. The World Bank emphasized that effective financial services are crucial for economic stability, especially during crises, as digital payments could provide a lifeline.
Palestinian Resistance Escalates With Attacks on Israeli Forces
Al-Quds Brigades targeted Israeli bulldozers in Tulkarm and vehicles in Rafah using explosives and mortar fire. Al-Qassam Brigades reported killing three soldiers, destroying an armored vehicle, and detonating a booby-trapped house in Jabalia. The Israeli military detained 12 Palestinians, including children and a student, as protests and strikes intensified in Jenin and Tulkarm against Israeli and Palestinian Authority operations. These actions highlight the escalating confrontations across the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Gaza Violence Intensifies With Rising Casualties and Destruction
Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed 10 Palestinians, including 3 children, with 31 additional casualties and 79 injuries reported in 24 hours. Strikes targeted homes, hospitals, and civilians, severely impacting rescue operations. Palestinian resistance forces claimed operations killing Israeli soldiers. Since October 2023, the conflict has left 45,000 dead and 107,000 injured, creating a severe humanitarian crisis marked by widespread destruction, displacement, and escalating violence affecting countless civilians across Gaza.
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★ Türkiye
Israel And Turkiye Exchange Accusations Over Syrian Occupation
Israel and Turkiye clashed over Syrian occupation, with Turkiye condemning Israel’s Golan Heights settlements as “border expansion through occupation” and urging compliance with the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, which Israel dismissed as void. Israel accused Turkiye of occupying Syrian territories via operations in 2016, 2018, and 2019, using armed proxies like the Syrian National Army and integrating Turkish institutions. Both nations blame each other for destabilizing Syria, escalating tensions over territorial control and regional stability.
- Türkiye Strengthens International Cooperation For Syria’s Reconstruction And Stability
President Erdoğan discussed Syria’s reconstruction with Qatar’s Emir and EU leaders, emphasizing international collaboration to rebuild and stabilize Syria. Erdoğan reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to safeguarding Syria’s sovereignty, and territorial integrity and promoting inclusive governance post-Assad. The EU pledged €1 billion to support Türkiye’s Syrian refugees and migration management, while Türkiye highlighted ongoing counter-terrorism efforts, including liberating areas from PKK/YPG control. Both Qatar and the EU recognized Türkiye’s vital role in regional security and rebuilding Syria after years of war and destruction.
Turkiye Prepares For Assault On Kurdish-Held Syrian Territories
Turkiye is amassing forces, including militias and artillery, near Kobani for an imminent invasion of Kurdish-held Syrian regions. U.S. officials confirmed the buildup resembles Turkiye’s 2019 incursion preparations. The troop buildup follows the fall of Assad’s regime, with Turkiye aiming to strengthen influence and secure control over key territories in the evolving Syrian political landscape.
Greece Increases Defense Budget Citing Türkiye Threats
Greece doubled its defense budget to €6.1 billion, citing a “real war threat” from Türkiye. Funds will modernize equipment, including Rafale jets, Belharra frigates, and anti-drone systems, alongside European Sky Shield participation. Türkiye criticized Greece’s militarization of the Aegean islands and warned against an arms race. Despite tensions over sovereignty and territorial disputes, both nations are cautiously pursuing normalization efforts following President Erdoğan’s visit to Athens. The upgrades aim to address Greece’s security concerns and regional instability.
Turkish Naval Vessels Conduct Drills Off Libya’s Coast
Three Turkish naval ships conducted drills near Libya, including frigates TCG Gaziantep and TCG Gelibolu and supply ship TCG Akar. Turkiye’s Ministry of Defense shared images of the exercises, emphasizing operational readiness and strategic military presence in the Mediterranean. These activities underscore Turkiye’s commitment to regional defense capabilities and maintaining a strong maritime presence near North Africa.
Türkiye And Kosovo Collaborate On NATO-Standard Ammunition Factory
Türkiye and Kosovo agreed to establish a NATO-standard ammunition factory in Pristina, enhancing defense cooperation and strengthening Kosovo’s capabilities. Led by Türkiye’s Mechanical and Chemical Industry Company, the project includes equipment provision, personnel training, and quality system implementation. The factory will operate as a fully locally owned public institution in Kosovo. Prime Minister Albin Kurti highlighted the partnership’s significance, marking a new phase of collaboration to produce military equipment and bolster regional defense efforts locally.
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★ IRAN
Iran Sets Condition For Reopening Embassy In Damascus
Iran announced Tuesday it would not immediately reopen its Damascus embassy, citing security concerns following its damage during recent factional attacks. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei stated that preparations are necessary, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the embassy and staff’s safety. Reopening will proceed once suitable security conditions are met
Iran Denies Syria Owes $50 Billion While Acknowledging Debt
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei denied claims that Syria owes $50 billion but confirmed the presence of outstanding debts. Speaking at a weekly press conference, Baghaei urged Syria’s new leadership to honor agreements made under former President Bashar al-Assad. He emphasized adherence to existing contracts while uncertainty surrounds Tehran’s relations with Damascus, despite Iran’s extensive military and financial support since 2011.
Iran Plans Auction for Two Seized Oil Tankers
Iran will auction two oil tankers, Sqa 2 and Ariana, seized for oil smuggling. The Revolutionary Guard captured Ariana in October 2022, carrying 11 million liters of smuggled fuel while flying the Panama flag. The cargo was transferred to the Iranian National Oil Company. Further details on the Sqa 2 tanker have not been disclosed. This action reflects Iran’s ongoing efforts to address illicit oil trading activities.
Khamenei Asserts Resilience Of Iran’s Influence After Assad’s Fall
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dismissed claims that the Tehran-backed “Axis of Resistance” collapsed following Bashar al-Assad’s ousting in Syria. In a televised speech Tuesday, Khamenei criticized Israel and the United States, Calling their assumptions “completely mistaken” during Syria’s developments. He emphasized that resistance remains strong despite perceived setbacks.
U.S. Demands Iran Release Jailed Iranian-American Journalist Immediately
The United States urged Iran on Tuesday to release Iranian-American journalist Reza Vali Zadeh, sentenced to 10 years for allegedly working with a hostile government. Vali Zadeh, formerly with U.S.-funded Radio Farda, is the first known American convicted in Iran since last year’s prisoner exchange. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller condemned the ruling, calling for his immediate release and the release of all political prisoners in Iran.
U.S. Indicts Iranians Over Drone Attack On Jordan Base
The U.S. Justice Department indicted two Iranian-linked individuals for involvement in a January drone attack on a Jordanian base that killed three U.S. soldiers and injured 40 others. The indictment accused the pair of illegally transferring sensitive technology to Iran, which was used in the attack. Federal prosecutors in Boston identified the suspects Monday as Mehdi Mohammad Sadeghi, an Iranian-American, and Mohammad Abedini Najafabadi, residing in Iran and Switzerland.
IAEA Chief Declares 2015 Nuclear Deal No Longer Relevant
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi stated that the 2015 nuclear deal is no longer viable, holding Iran primarily responsible for its stagnation. Speaking during his visit to Italy, Grossi suggested the initial Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) framework could serve as a basis, but the agreement itself is unnecessary. He highlighted Iran’s uranium enrichment levels reaching 60%, nearing the 90% threshold required for military-grade uranium production.
Iran-China Non-Oil Trade Reaches $21.4 Billion In Eight Months
Iran’s Customs Administration reported non-oil trade with China totaling $21.4 billion between March 20 and November 20, 2024. China imported $9.9 billion worth of Iranian non-oil goods, making it Iran’s top export destination during this period. Additionally, China exported $11.5 billion in non-oil products to Iran, ranking as Iran’s second-largest import source. This highlights the growing economic ties between the two nations.
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★ IRAQ
Iran-Backed Popular Mobilization Forces: No Intention to Intervene in Syria
The Iran-backed Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) in Iraq announced they do not intend to interfere in Syria’s internal affairs. In a statement, the group emphasized the need for cautious positions given the current uncertainty surrounding the Syrian situation.
Iraq Sees Sharp Drop in Captagon Smuggling After Assad’s Fall
The Iraqi National Counter-Narcotics Agency reported Tuesday a sharp decline in captagon trafficking along the Syria-Iraq border following Bashar al-Assad’s regime collapse. Haider al-Quraishi, a member of the agency, told Al-Hurra that the fall disrupted the main smuggling route into Iraq. He noted no recent arrests of traffickers and emphasized that Syria had been the source of 90% of the captagon circulating in Iraq.
Iraqi Interior Ministry Denies Presence of Maher Al-Assad in Iraq
Iraqi Interior Ministry spokesperson Brigadier General Muqdad Miri denied reports circulating on social media claiming that Maher al-Assad, the brother of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, is in Iraq. Speaking to the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Miri stated the news is “baseless” and urged media outlets to ensure accuracy and rely on official sources when reporting.
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★ YEMEN
Houthis Ready to Sign Yemen Peace Roadmap, Reject Red Sea Link
The Houthis announced their “immediate” readiness to sign the roadmap to resolve Yemen’s decade-long crisis. They rejected linking the peace process to their escalating Red Sea attacks. The statement followed a meeting in Sanaa between Houthi Foreign Minister Jamal Amer, UN envoy office director Mohammed Al-Ghanem, and economic advisor Dirk Jan Omtzigt, as reported by Saba News Agency. Amer reiterated Sanaa’s clear stance, affirming the roadmap as the gateway to initiating Yemen’s political settlement.
Houthi Leader Warns of Dangerous Phase, Fears Military Escalation
The Iran-backed Houthi militia admitted facing a “dangerous phase,” fearing a fate similar to Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria and anticipating military escalation. Abdul Karim al-Houthi, Interior Minister of the unrecognized Houthi government and uncle of the group’s leader, stated that Yemen requires heightened vigilance and responsibility to counter “malicious conspiracies” against it.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Qatar and Greece Discuss Bilateral Relations, Gaza, and Syria
Qatar and Greece held consultations in Doha on Tuesday to strengthen bilateral relations and discuss developments in Gaza and Syria. Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani met with Greek Defense Minister Nikolaos Dendias to review cooperation and regional issues. Additionally, Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs, Saud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, met Dendias to discuss mutual interests and ways to enhance cooperation, according to the Qatar News Agency (QNA).
CIA Director Engages In Qatar Talks Over Hostage Negotiations
CIA Director Bill Burns met Qatar’s Prime Minister to advance hostage release and ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas. Progress has been reported in negotiations held in Doha and Cairo, though significant obstacles persist, including Hamas’s demand to end the war. Previous agreements released 105 hostages, with 96 captives still held, including confirmed deceased. Mediators from Egypt and Qatar remain involved as U.S. and Israeli officials work to finalize a sustainable agreement addressing hostages and conflict resolution.
Space 42 Secures $5.1 Billion UAE Satellite Services Contract
Space 42, an AI-driven space technology company, signed a 17-year, $5.1 billion (18.7 billion AED) contract with the UAE government to provide satellite communication services from 2026 to 2043. The company disclosed to the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange that the deal strengthens its financial position, accounting for most of its future contracted revenues, which total 26 billion AED ($7.1 billion).
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★ EGYPT
China Transfers Technology And Factories Worth Billions To Egypt
In a historic move reshaping the regional economic landscape, China is investing billions to transfer advanced technology and factories to Egypt. Leading Chinese companies are establishing large-scale projects, positioning Egypt as a regional and global industrial hub. These investments also serve as a gateway for advanced technological expertise and the creation of thousands of direct and indirect job opportunities.
Egypt Gulf Elevators Shares Sold For EGP 180 Million
The Egyptian Stock Exchange reported two off-exchange deals for Egypt Gulf Elevators and Escalators on Tuesday, involving 3.6 million shares worth EGP 180 million. Additional transactions included Kazareen Textiles, with 143,200 shares valued at EGP 14.3 million, and Eurotex Garments, with 963,900 shares totaling EGP 12.2 million.
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