★ SYRIA
Senior U.S. Diplomat to Visit Damascus for Talks
Barbara Leaf, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, will visit Damascus in the coming days. This marks the first high-level U.S. delegation visit to Syria in years. While U.S. officials emphasize that it is premature to discuss removing “Hayat Tahrir al-Sham,” from the terrorism list, the meeting reflects a rare move toward direct engagement.
UN Chief Demands Israel Halt Airstrikes in Syria
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged Israel to cease airstrikes in Syria, citing violations of sovereignty and territorial integrity. Since Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government collapsed earlier this month, Israel has launched hundreds of strikes, targeting military infrastructure and weapons near Damascus. Concerns from Austin Tice’s family, the American journalist detained in Syria for over 12 years, suggest the strikes may threaten areas where he is held.
Putin Plans Meeting with Assad, Declares Russia Unbeaten in Syria
President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia remains undefeated in Syria despite the ousting of Bashar al-Assad earlier this month. In his first remarks on the matter, Putin confirmed plans to meet the former Syrian leader, now in Moscow, and emphasized his intent to discuss the fate of missing U.S. journalist Austin Tice. The White House has labeled Tice’s release a “top priority.”
Pentagon Confirms 2,000 U.S. Troops in Syria During Crisis
The Department of Defense revealed approximately 2,000 U.S. troops are currently deployed in Syria, significantly more than the previously reported 900. Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder clarified that the additional 1,100 personnel are “temporary rotational forces” serving 30-90 day missions, while 900 are “core” assets on longer deployments of 9-12 months. Ryder emphasized such fluctuations are routine, and the increase occurred prior to the Dec. 8 collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
Syrians Demand Civil State and Women’s Role in Politics
In Damascus’ Umayyad Square, hundreds protested Thursday, urging a democratic civil state and women’s inclusion in rebuilding Syria. This was the first demonstration since “Hayat Tahrir al-Sham” assumed control in the capital. Participants chanted for unity and secularism near the Damascus Sword monument, carrying banners promoting “citizenship and law” and equal rights.
Syria’s Largest Oil Refinery Shuts Down Due to Iranian Supply Halt
Syria’s largest oil refinery, Baniyas, halted operations after Iran stopped supplying 90% of the country’s crude oil needs. The refinery, which processed 90,000–100,000 barrels daily, ceased production following the fall of Iran-backed President Bashar al-Assad. Currently undergoing maintenance, the refinery is preparing for future crude supply. Syria’s new leadership, including figures from the former opposition-led Salvation Government, hopes for sanctions relief to enable non-Iranian oil imports and equipment spare parts procurement.
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★ ISRAEL
Netanyahu States Israel Strikes Houthis For World’s Protection Against Iran
Israel’s airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen protect global security, with Netanyahu asserting that the Iran-backed group threatens international trade. The Israeli Defense Forces targeted key positions in Yemen, including Sana’a, to disrupt Houthi operations. Netanyahu highlighted that Israel’s actions defend the international community, supported by the U.S. and others. He warned the Houthis that attacks on Israel come with severe consequences, aiming to neutralize the group’s key ports and logistical capabilities.
Nazareth Resident, 19, Charged With Spying for Hezbollah During War
Mohammad Sa’adi, 19, from Nazareth, was indicted for spying for Hezbollah during the war and charged with contacting a foreign agent. He allegedly provided Hezbollah with information on rocket impacts, aircraft movements, and IDF troop positions. Sa’adi is also accused of sending photos and videos to Hezbollah’s al-Manar TV. His case is part of a larger investigation into Israeli espionage, linked to Iranian recruitment for spying activities during the conflict.
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★ LEBANON
Miqati: Lebanon’s Reconstruction Costs $5 Billion, Demands Halt to Israeli Violations
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Miqati called for global pressure on Israel to stop violating the ceasefire with Hezbollah. He stressed that Lebanon’s reconstruction costs due to Israeli aggression are estimated at $5 billion. Speaking at the 11th Developing Eight Summit, Miqati sought international support to help Lebanon recover. He also emphasized the need for enforcing international resolutions, particularly UN Security Council Resolution 1701, to ensure a complete and lasting ceasefire.
Lebanese Official Statement on Ali Mamlouk and Maher Assad’s Family
Lebanese authorities denied reports claiming Ali Mamlouk used Lebanon to escape. Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi confirmed Mamlouk is not in Lebanon, and his photo was circulated at the airport to prevent entry with fake documents. Mawlawi also confirmed Maher Assad’s wife and son entered and exited Lebanon legally. Mamlouk, a former Syrian intelligence chief, faces international sanctions and criminal charges related to terrorism and human rights violations in Lebanon.
Four Israelis Detained After Entering Lebanon to Visit Rabbi’s Tomb
Four Israeli civilians were arrested Thursday after illegally crossing into southern Lebanon, reportedly to visit the tomb of Rav Ashi. The suspects, from Ashdod, Beit Shemesh, and Hatzor Haglilit, were detained by Israeli troops and returned to Israel for questioning. The incident occurred as IDF forces targeted Hezbollah weapons along the border. Illegal crossings are punishable with up to four years in prison, with the tomb located near the Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Drone Threat Neutralized by Israeli Air Force Near Gaza Border
The Israeli Air Force intercepted a UAV launched from Gaza over the border region on Thursday, with no casualties. Alarms sounded in Kibbutz Magen and Moshav Ein HaBesor in the Eshkol region at 11:45 a.m. The IDF investigated, and after 40 minutes, the Home Front Command declared the incident resolved. It was later revealed that two UAVs infiltrated the area, with one crashing near Ma’on and Urim. Authorities continue to monitor aerial threats along the Gaza border.
Saraya Al-Quds Targets Israeli Occupation Forces’ Headquarters in Netzarim
Saraya Al-Quds, the military wing of Islamic Jihad, released footage showing fighters targeting Israeli occupation forces’ headquarters in Netzarim. The video featured mortars being fired at the Israeli infantry division headquarters, with shells hitting the target. An Israeli military ambulance was seen arriving to evacuate the wounded. Resistance factions continue to target Israeli forces in the Netzarim area, which has become a significant conflict zone for Palestinians under heavy Israeli occupation.
Israeli Airstrikes Target Gaza, Destroy Buildings in Jabaliya
Israeli forces carried out airstrikes across Gaza, bombing Sheikh Radwan and the coastal area, and destroying buildings in Jabaliya camp. Artillery targeted shelter centers in Al-Tuffah, killing 15 Palestinians. Drones dropped incendiary materials in residential areas of Jabaliya. Intense fighting continues, with Hamas’s Al-Qassam Brigades claiming responsibility for killing an Israeli officer and soldiers. Drones targeted further Israeli military positions as the conflict escalated across Gaza.
Six Palestinians Killed in IDF Drone Strike and West Bank Raid
Israeli forces killed six Palestinians and injured several others in West Bank raids targeting rising terrorism. Among the dead was an 80-year-old woman. In Tulkarem, a drone strike killed four gunmen, including a senior terror operative financed by Iran. The strike also left three others severely injured. IDF troops destroyed infrastructure and sealed city entrances, aiming to neutralize key terror elements and disrupt Iran-linked militant activities in the region.
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★ TURKIYE
Erdogan and Sisi Meet to Strengthen Bilateral Relations and Regional Stability
Turkish President Erdogan and Egyptian President Sisi met in Cairo to strengthen bilateral relations, focusing on defense, energy, and trade. Both leaders aim for $15 billion in trade and support Syria’s political unity, territorial integrity, and reconstruction. They emphasized achieving a permanent Gaza ceasefire and enhancing humanitarian aid. Discussions also covered regional stability in Syria, Libya, Sudan, and Somalia, stressing territorial integrity. Both leaders condemned Israeli violations in Syria, calling for an immediate cessation of such actions.
Ensuring Syria’s Stability to Facilitate Regional Stability, Security
President Erdoğan stressed that Syria’s stability is crucial for regional security, requiring the collective efforts of all actors. He called for national reconciliation, restoring Syria’s territorial integrity, and peaceful coexistence among all ethnic and religious groups. Iranian President Pezeshkian supported inclusive governance, condemned Israeli attacks in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, and emphasized the moral responsibility to protect civilians. The D-8 Summit underscored the significance of Türkiye-Iran relations for regional stability during ongoing Middle East turmoil.
Turkey Denies US Claim of Ceasefire Agreement with SDF
Turkey denied the US claim of a ceasefire agreement with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northern Syria. A Turkish Defense Ministry official confirmed that Turkey-backed factions would control areas held by Kurdish YPG forces. He emphasized the continued Turkish threat and preparations until foreign fighters leave Syria. While SDF leader proposed a demilitarized zone in Kobani, Turkey insisted Syrian authorities must address the Kurdish issue to prevent further conflict.
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★ IRAN
Iranian Dissident Highlights Regime’s Funding Of Syrian Drug Operations
Iranian political prisoner Ahmad Reza Haeri criticized Tehran’s financial support for Assad’s regime, exposing drug production facilities linked to the Syrian leadership. He highlighted billions spent by Iran to sustain Assad’s regime while Iranian youths face execution for minor drug offenses. This disparity deepens public outrage and accelerates the potential collapse of Iran’s ruling system.
Iran And Egypt Poised To Restore Diplomatic Relations After 40 Years
Iranian Vice President Mehdi Sanaei announced imminent diplomatic normalization with Egypt, including reopening embassies after a 40-year suspension. Relations, severed since Iran’s 1979 revolution, have been limited to interest sections despite previous reconciliation attempts. Sanaei emphasized mutual determination to reestablish ties, expressing optimism for embassy reopenings soon following required procedural steps.
IRGC Denies Russian Claims Of 4,000 Iranian Forces In Syria
The IRGC refuted President Putin’s statement about transferring 4,000 Iranian personnel from Syria to Iran. Iranian MP General Esmail Kothari clarified that the number included Lebanese, Afghan, and other advisory personnel, asserting Iran never deployed such a large military contingent in Syria.
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★ IRAQ
Iraq Resumes Diplomatic Mission Operations in Damascus
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani announced Thursday that Iraq’s diplomatic mission in Damascus has officially resumed operations. The embassy, previously relocated to Lebanon following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, has reopened in the Syrian capital. Al-Sudani affirmed Iraq’s willingness to engage with Syria’s new administration, emphasizing the importance of fostering stability in Syria and the region.
Iraq Repatriates 1,905 Syrian Military Personnel
Iraq’s Joint Operations Command announced on Thursday the repatriation of 1,905 Syrian military officers and personnel to Syria. According to an official statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Syrian army members, including officers, soldiers, and staff from the Al-Bukamal border crossing, sought refuge in Iraq on December 7 following recent events in Syria. Iraq allowed their entry on humanitarian grounds, providing temporary shelter before facilitating their formal return to Syrian authorities.
Iraqi Advisor Urges Disbandment of Armed Factions Due to External Threats
An Iraqi Prime Minister advisor stressed the urgency of disbanding Iranian-backed armed factions to avoid forced dissolution by external powers. International efforts reportedly aim to break ties between Iraq’s government and these factions, fueled by regional developments such as the Gaza conflict, Hezbollah’s decline, and Syria’s Baath regime collapse. Public discussions have emerged on the risk of Israeli military strikes targeting these groups, which have launched over 200 rocket attacks on Israel, escalating regional tensions.
Iraq and BP Finalize Kirkuk Oilfield Development Deal
Following an August agreement, Iraq and BP have agreed on technical terms to redevelop Kirkuk’s oil and gas fields. The project includes exploration, oilfield development, and construction of power and solar energy plants. Sources indicate the deal offers a more favorable profit-sharing model than previous contracts. Iraq, OPEC’s second-largest oil producer, has a capacity of five million barrels per day.
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★ YEMEN
Houthi Leader Declares Open War Against Israel
In response to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s warning that attacks on Israel “will pay a very heavy price,” Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi announced his group is in an open war with Israel, the United States, and Britain. He pledged continued escalation, including targeting ships in the Red Sea, claiming these actions support the Palestinian cause.
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★ GULF NATIONS
UAE Completes Largest Acquisition Deal in Europe for 2024
ADNOC’s investment arm, XRG, acquired 91.32% of German company Covestro, marking Europe’s largest acquisition in 2024. The deal, pending regulatory approvals, will be finalized in the second half of next year. Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of XRG, highlighted the alignment with the UAE’s sustainable economic growth vision. This marks XRG’s first major investment in chemicals, supporting its goal to become a top global leader while addressing growing energy and low-carbon demands.
Kuwait Arrests 19 Suspects, Seizes 15 Kilograms of Drugs
Kuwait’s General Directorate for Drug Control arrested 19 individuals from various nationalities, confiscating 15 kilograms of narcotics, 10,000 psychotropic pills, 30 alcohol bottles, four unlicensed firearms, and ammunition. The suspects were referred to the Drugs and Alcohol Prosecution for legal action. This operation is part of intensified campaigns by the Directorate to combat drug trafficking, ensuring the safety and security of society and citizens.
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★ EGYPT
67% Increase In Trade Volume Between Iran And Egypt
Iran’s trade with Egypt reached $16.186 million in the first eight months of 2024, marking a 67% year-on-year increase. Iranian trade official Ruhollah Latifi attributed the growth to improved political relations and both nations’ shared membership in BRICS. Despite fluctuating diplomatic ties, bilateral trade demonstrates positive momentum.
Foreign Investments In Egypt Surge To $20 Billion
Egypt’s foreign investments reached $20 billion following strategic economic reforms initiated in 2016 to improve the investment climate. Measures included accelerating economic reforms, reducing investment risks, enhancing transparency, and effectively engaging with local and international investors to showcase opportunities.
Gulf Real Estate Firm Invests $700 Million In Egypt
Gulf-based “Nama Gulf Real Estate” announced a $700 million investment in Egypt, launching the “Celesta Mall” project in Dahshur. The mall, a collaboration with “Pure Build,” features a gold retail hub alongside administrative and commercial complexes, establishing it as a key business center between Sheikh Zayed and Sixth of October cities.
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