★ SYRIA
Syria’s New Leadership Visits Saudi Arabia, Strengthening Regional Ties
A high-ranking Syrian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Assaad al-Shibani, Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra, and Intelligence Chief Anas Khattab, arrived in Riyadh on Wednesday. This marks the first official foreign visit by Syria’s newly established Islamist government following the removal of President Bashar al-Assad last month. The visit, conducted at the invitation of Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister, underscores the shifting dynamics in the region. State media described the engagement as a significant step toward fostering diplomatic and strategic relations between Syria and Saudi Arabia.
Syrian Protesters Demand Justice for Missing Activists
Protesters assembled in Douma on Wednesday, urging Syria’s new Islamist-led government to address the decade-long disappearance of four prominent activists. The missing individuals—Razan Zaitouneh, Wael Hamadeh, Samira Khalil, and Nazem Hammadi—were abducted over ten years ago. Demonstrators called for a comprehensive investigation by the newly established rulers, highlighting the persistent demand for justice and accountability in post-conflict Syria.
Syria’s Foreign Minister Urges Lifting of Sanctions for Progress
Syria’s new Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, in an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, called for the removal of international sanctions. Speaking three weeks after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, al-Shaibani emphasized the administration’s readiness to engage with global partners and highlighted efforts to stabilize the country. He detailed the government’s progress, focusing on rebuilding infrastructure and fostering diplomatic relations to reintegrate Syria into the international community.
Technocratic Government and Humanitarian Aid Shape Syria’s Transition
Syria’s transition will be led by a technocratic government formed through a National Dialogue Conference, prioritizing inclusivity for internal figures like youth, women, and former detainees. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia initiated an aid bridge to Damascus, delivering food, shelter, medical supplies, and bakery-specific fuel. SDF and Damascus officials held productive military-focused talks, marking potential progress. The King Salman Relief Center confirmed aid would continue until Syria’s humanitarian crisis stabilizes, emphasizing sustained international support for recovery efforts.
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★ ISRAEL
Yoav Gallant Resigns Over Haredi Exemption Law During Political Turmoil
Yoav Gallant resigned from Israel’s Knesset after opposing the Haredi exemption law, citing national security risks. Despite his dismissal as Defense Minister, he reaffirmed loyalty to Likud and accountability for October 7 events. Benny Gantz praised his courage, while Yair Lapid condemned the law as a betrayal of fallen soldiers. Gallant’s resignation highlights divisions over military service obligations during wartime, reflecting political tensions as Israel grapples with internal debates on security and conscription policies.
Serbia Acquires Advanced Drones and Artillery From Israel
Serbia signed a $335 million deal with Israel’s Elbit Systems for Hermes drones and Pulse artillery systems. Confirmed by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, the 3.5-year agreement bolsters Serbia’s military modernization efforts and aligns with Elbit’s undisclosed European arms deal. The collaboration marks a significant step in Serbia-Israel defense relations, enhancing Serbia’s defense capabilities with advanced Israeli technology.
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★ LEBANON
Hezbollah Responds to Israeli Violations During Withdrawal Plans
Hezbollah warned Israel over ongoing ceasefire violations, including assassinations and airstrikes, while urging Lebanon to enforce Resolution 1701. Israeli airstrikes targeted Hezbollah assets, destroying weapon depots and vehicles, despite announcing plans for a southern Lebanon withdrawal coordinated with the U.S. Israeli aircraft intensified flights over Beirut and southern regions, raising tensions. Hezbollah accused UNIFIL and international bodies of failing to prevent violations and vowed a calculated response to protect Lebanon’s sovereignty and regional stability.
Hezbollah Transforms Naqoura Into Strategic Terror Hub Near UNIFIL Base
The IDF revealed Hezbollah’s extensive infrastructure in Naqoura, uncovering tunnels, weapon caches, and rockets near UNIFIL’s base. Nearly every home contained military supplies, making the village a hub for Hezbollah’s Galilee invasion plans. Iranian missiles and command centers were found, while UNIFIL faced criticism for failing to intervene. The IDF delayed operations to protect UNIFIL troops, exposing Hezbollah’s reliance on the village for logistical and strategic operations along the Israel-Lebanon border.
Israeli Airstrike Targets Hezbollah Site as Lebanese Army Deploys
Israel struck a Hezbollah weapons storage site in Bani Hayyan, citing arms transfers, during ceasefire violations involving killings and destruction. The Lebanese Army deployed in Shamaa and Khiam, coordinated with UNIFIL, under the ceasefire agreement requiring control south of the Litani River. Israel claims strategic necessity for continued presence, citing uncovered weapons caches, including missiles and explosives, in Wadi Salouqi. Challenges in Lebanese Army deployment timelines increase tensions over Israel’s potential extension of its operations in Southern Lebanon.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Hamas Strengthens Forces in Gaza During Recruitment Surge
Hamas and Islamic Jihad now field 20,000-23,000 fighters, with earlier estimates suggesting 12,000. The IDF reports killing 17,000-20,000 terrorists and detaining 6,000 Gazans, with 4,300 still in custody. Initial estimates placed Hamas forces at 25,000, but pre-war figures reached 40,000, indicating substantial recruitment has replenished their ranks. These evolving numbers highlight challenges in accurately assessing Hamas’s operational capacity during the ongoing Gaza conflict.
Israeli Defense Minister Warns Hamas of Unprecedented Strikes
Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz issued a stern warning to Hamas, demanding the release of Israeli hostages and an end to rocket fire. Katz threatened intensified military action if these demands are unmet. Negotiations remain stalled as Hamas requests a ceasefire and partial prisoner exchange, which Israel rejects. President-elect Trump emphasized the urgency of freeing hostages by January 20. During the deadlock, Hamas proposed a week-long truce, promising a prisoner list while offering to release 22 hostages alive. Since the conflict began in October 2023, over 45,000 lives have been lost in Gaza.
Palestinian Authority Suspends Al Jazeera Over Incitement Allegations
The Palestinian Authority suspended Al Jazeera’s operations, accusing it of incitement, legal violations, and false reporting on Jenin clashes. The PA denied involvement in a journalist’s death, citing her alleged ties to Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Hamas condemned the suspension as oppressive and anti-press freedom. Al Jazeera staff in PA territories now face legal penalties. The decision mirrors Israel’s earlier ban on the network, citing its broadcasts as threats to national security.
Gaza Population Declines by 6% During Ongoing War
Gaza’s population decreased by 6%, with 100,000 displaced and over 55,000 presumed dead, including 45,500 confirmed killed and 11,000 missing. Severe food insecurity affects 22% of residents, including 3,500 children at risk of malnutrition. Israel claims killing 18,000 combatants while detaining thousands, emphasizing Hamas’s use of civilians as shields in conflict zones. Palestinian figures cite extensive civilian casualties, while Israel denies targeting non-combatants, highlighting its efforts to minimize harm and focus on militant operatives.
Israeli Strikes Kill 42 in Gaza, Deepen Humanitarian Catastrophe
Israeli airstrikes killed 42 Palestinians, including women and children, targeting homes, hospitals, camps, and a designated “safe zone” in Mawasi. Over 1,500 displacement tents were flooded by rain, worsening living conditions for displaced families during freezing winter weather. Since October 2023, Gaza has reported over 154,000 deaths and injuries, with 11,000 missing. Infrastructure destruction, famine, and allegations of war crimes against Israeli leaders exacerbate one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, drawing international condemnation.
Israeli Airstrikes in Gaza Reach 1,400 in December During Conflict
The Israeli military reported 1,400 airstrikes in Gaza during December, targeting militant threats and supporting ground forces during ongoing resistance. Since October 2023, the conflict has resulted in 825 Israeli military deaths, 5,569 injuries, and 154,000 Palestinian casualties, including over 11,000 missing. Gaza faces severe destruction, famine, and humanitarian devastation, with children and the elderly most affected. Despite relentless bombings and a 15-month-long siege, resistance continues, highlighting the ongoing toll on both sides.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkey Intensifies Strikes Following Bayraktar Drone Downing in Syria
Turkey bombed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) positions near Kobani, hitting six areas, including Qaraqozak Bridge and Bir Hasu, damaging properties. A Turkish drone targeted a sugar factory in Deir Hafir, causing infrastructure damage. Pro-Turkish factions also attacked Khirbet Zmala near Tishreen Dam, sparking intense clashes with the SDF. Earlier, the SDF announced downing a Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drone over Qaraqozak Bridge, escalating tensions and violence in the region.
Europe Ends Russian Gas Reliance, Turkey Gains Strategic Advantage
Europe ceased Russian gas imports after a five-year agreement expired, spiking prices to $530 per 1,000 cubic meters. Russia redirected supplies to China, India, and Iran, while Turkey emerged as a vital transit hub. Europe’s limited alternatives, including costly imports from Qatar and the U.S., heightened its energy crisis. Estimated EU gas and electricity costs may rise by €120 billion over two years, straining industries and households during a challenging winter without affordable energy solutions.
Fatih Vessel Set for Black Sea Gas Exploration
After completing maintenance, the Fatih drilling vessel will start exploring near the Türkiye-Bulgaria exclusive economic zone, south of the Sakarya Gas Field. The Sakarya Gas Field, discovered in 2021, produces 7 million cubic meters of gas daily, supplying energy to 3 million households. Production is set to rise to 9 million cubic meters by 2025. Supporting vessels enhance output, while Oruç Reis surveys Somalia. A floating facility will secure 20 years of Sakarya gas production starting June 2026.
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★ IRAN
Khamenei: US Bases in Syria Cannot Continue
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, stated that the presence of US forces in Syria is “impossible” and warned of being“trampled under the feet of Syrian youth.” He also remarked that the “US invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq, about 25 years ago, was a conspiracy against Iran thwarted by General Qasem Soleimani by entering the battlefield.” Khamenei’s office began today the fifth anniversary ceremonies of General Soleimani’s death, the architect of Iran’s regional strategy, who was killed in a US airstrike in Baghdad under President Donald Trump’s orders.
Experts: Trump to Take Decisive Action on Iran’s Nuclear Program
Experts in international relations and Iranian affairs predict that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump will begin his new term by escalating tensions with Tehran, potentially targeting Iran’s nuclear program through a joint military strike with Israel. The experts, speaking to “Erem News,” stated that Trump will pursue a “maximum pressure” policy against Iran, especially regarding sanctions that President Joe Biden had been more lenient with. They indicated that a military strike would be aimed at forcing Iran to sign a new nuclear agreement with the incoming U.S. administration.
Iran’s Oil Derivatives Production According to Euro Standards Reaches 110 Million Liters Daily
Saeed Madah Moroj, Director of Coordination and Supervision at Iran’s National Oil Refining and Distribution Company, announced that the production of oil derivatives (including gasoline and diesel) meeting Euro standards has increased from 98 million liters to 110 million liters daily since the formation of the 14th government a few months ago.
Iran Exports $1.2 Billion in Non-Oil Goods to India in 8 Months
The head of Iran’s Customs Administration announced that Iran exported non-oil goods worth $1.2 billion to India during the first eight months of the current Iranian year (March 20 to November 20). Farood Asgari stated that India was the seventh-largest destination for Iran’s exports during this period. Additionally, India ranked as the sixth-largest source of Iranian imports, exporting goods valued at $1 billion to Iran. A representative from the Iranian Trade Promotion Organization also mentioned that Iran exported goods worth $2.217 billion to India during the previous Iranian year, marking a 2% increase compared to the previous year.
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★ IRAQ
Iraqi Forces Uncover ISIS Intelligence Cache in Kirkuk Raid
Elite Iraqi special forces launched an operation in Wadi al-Shay, south of Kirkuk, following the discovery of critical ISIS intelligence. The raid, conducted in Daquq District, occurred after the elimination of seven ISIS militants. The retrieved intelligence, described as a “treasure,” is expected to provide significant insights into the group’s operations and strategies.
PMF Reinforces Al-Anbar Border with Strategic Security Measures
The Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) deployed substantial reinforcements to Al-Anbar on Wednesday to secure the Iraqi-Syrian border. Commander Qassem Musleh confirmed the move is part of a strategic plan to prevent infiltration and enhance regional security. The operation includes logistics support for supplies and intelligence teams to ensure operational accuracy. Iraqi security leaders affirmed the border is fully secured through intensive unit deployment and continuous monitoring of defenses.
Finland to Withdraw Troops from Iraq by End of 2024
The Finnish Ministry of Defense announced the withdrawal of its remaining troops from Iraq by late 2024. These forces, part of the international coalition, trained Iraqi security personnel to combat ISIS. Despite ISIS losing most of its territory, the group remains a threat, requiring ongoing global anti-terrorism efforts. The ministry highlighted that Finland’s contributions will have a lasting impact, as its training improved the capabilities of Iraqi forces to secure their regions and protect local populations.
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★ YEMEN
Yemeni Forces Shoot Down U.S. MQ-9 Drone Over Ma’rib
Yemeni military spokesperson Brigadier General Yahya Saree announced the downing of a U.S. MQ-9 drone on Wednesday over Ma’rib. The drone, conducting hostile operations, was intercepted with a domestically produced surface-to-air missile. This is the second drone downed in 72 hours and the fourteenth during the “Promised Conquest” campaign, which supports Gaza. The event underscores Yemen’s advancing air defense capabilities.
Houthi-China Collaboration Raises Gulf Security Threat Concerns
The Houthis reportedly established a partnership with China, leveraging Chinese-made components to enhance missile capabilities for Red Sea and Gulf attacks. U.S. intelligence unveiled a sophisticated supply chain enabling the acquisition of advanced weapon parts from Chinese companies. Despite U.S. diplomatic protests and sanctions on involved entities, Beijing has taken no action. The Houthis aim to produce hundreds of cruise missiles capable of targeting Gulf nations and key shipping routes, posing significant long-term security risks.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Gulf States Condemn Deadly New Orleans Vehicle Attack
Gulf nations condemned a vehicular attack in New Orleans, USA, that claimed 15 lives and injured 30 others. Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly denounced the incident, reaffirming Doha’s rejection of violence, terrorism, and criminal acts, regardless of motives. The ministry expressed condolences to the victims’ families and the U.S. government and people, wishing the injured a swift recovery.
Iran Summons Saudi Ambassador Over Execution of Six Nationals
Iran summoned Saudi Ambassador Abdullah bin Saud Al-Anzi after Riyadh executed six Iranians convicted of drug trafficking. Tehran lodged a formal protest, demanding explanations and asserting the executions undermine judicial cooperation efforts. Iranian official Karimi Shasti noted the sentences were issued years ago and that Iran had worked to provide consular support and reduce the penalties.
Qatar’s Economy Grows 2% in Third Quarter 2024
Qatar’s economy expanded by 2% in Q3 2024, reaching a GDP of 180.23 billion riyals at constant prices. Non-hydrocarbon sectors drove growth, with construction up 7.7%, financial services up 10.6%, and transportation growing 5.4%. Retail trade rose 3.5%, while manufacturing contracted 2.7%. Mining remained the largest contributor, despite a slight decline. These results reflect Qatar’s ongoing diversification efforts under its third National Development Strategy, emphasizing sustainable growth across key sectors like construction, tourism, and logistics.
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★ EGYPT
- Egypt Receives €1 Billion of New Funding from the EU
Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced on Wednesday that Egypt received the first installment of €1 billion on Friday, as part of its partnership program with the European Union. The amount has already been deposited into the Central Bank. Egyptian Planning Minister Rania Al-Mashat had announced on December 20 that the European Commission had approved €1 billion in funding for Egypt under the Macro-Financial Assistance (MFA) mechanism, marking the first phase of €5 billion in funding to be provided until 2027.
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