★ SYRIA
U.S. Reestablishes Presence in Kobani During Syrian Unrest
The United States is reportedly constructing a military base in Kobani, a northern Syrian city on the Turkish border. This move comes six years after U.S. forces withdrew from the area, which remains a focal point of conflict between Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Turkish-backed groups. The development aligns with efforts by Syria’s new government to assert control following the removal of Bashar al-Assad, signaling a renewed U.S. strategic interest in the region’s stability and security.
Assad Targeted in Poisoning Assassination Attempt in Russia
British newspaper The Sun reported that ousted Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad was the target of a poisoning attempt in Russia. According to CNBC Arabia, Assad experienced choking and persistent coughing on Sunday, prompting him to seek immediate medical assistance.
24 Dead in Clashes Between Turkish-Backed Groups and SDF
Clashes in Syria’s northern Manbij district have left 24 fighters dead, including 23 from Turkish-backed factions and one from the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)-affiliated Manbij Military Council, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The conflict highlights ongoing tensions in the region as violence between these rival groups continues to escalate.
Israeli Airstrikes Hit Key Syrian Military Sites in Multiple Regions
Israel’s first airstrike on Syria in 2025 targeted the 90th Brigade command in rural Damascus, a critical Iranian ally near Israel. The brigade, located north of Quneitra, contains advanced weapons, including Shihab missiles and electronic warfare systems. This strike follows a deadly explosion at a Syrian weapons facility that killed 11 civilians. In addition, Israel’s military took control of the Al-Muntarah Dam in Quneitra, vital for local water supply, and established bases. Israeli forces also bombed Syrian army positions near Aleppo, targeting defense and research facilities.
Ukraine Prepares to Resume Diplomatic Relations with Syria
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Thursday that Ukraine is preparing to restore diplomatic relations with Syria. Following a briefing from Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha about his visit to Syria, Zelensky confirmed plans to resume diplomatic ties and collaboration with international organizations. Syrian Foreign Minister Assad Hassan al-Shibani expressed hopes for strategic partnerships with Ukraine, emphasizing cooperation on political, economic, social, and scientific fronts.
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★ ISRAEL
IDF Reveals Details of Heroic Commando Raid on Syrian Missile Facility
The IDF revealed a successful September 8 operation targeting an Iranian missile production facility near Masyaf, Syria. IAF commandos from the Shaldag Unit disrupted the site’s production of precision missiles for Hezbollah, eliminating 30 Syrian soldiers and preventing up to 300 missiles from being produced annually. The mission, which lasted three hours, stopped Iran’s missile production efforts, preventing advanced missile capabilities from reaching Hezbollah and pro-Iranian forces. The operation was carried out with no IDF casualties.
IDF Releases Official Casualty Numbers from War: 891 Fatalities, Suicides Rise
The IDF confirmed 891 fatalities since the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led assault, including 528 in 2023. Suicides rose from 17 in 2023 to 21 in 2024, and traffic accidents caused 49 deaths over both years. Operational accidents led to 65 fatalities. The IDF is addressing the mental health crisis with expanded support services, especially for combat units and reservists. The war’s toll far exceeds the previous decade, which recorded only 152 fatalities, including during the 2014 Gaza war.
Explosions Heard in Jerusalem as Fragments of Houthi Rocket Fall
A ballistic missile launched by the Houthis from Yemen towards Jerusalem caused explosions in the city as Israel intercepted it. Fragments of the missile fell near Modiin. The Houthi group, backed by Iran, has frequently targeted Israel with missiles and drones, despite Israeli warnings. In response, Israel has conducted airstrikes on Houthi positions in Yemen, including attacks on Sana’a and Hodeidah ports. Tensions remain high as both sides exchange threats and military actions.
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★ LEBANON
Lebanon Prevents Iranian Plane from Landing Due to Suspected Suspicious Cargo
Lebanese authorities blocked an Iranian “Mahan Air” plane from landing at Beirut Airport, suspecting it carried funds for Hezbollah. They demanded a cargo inspection as a condition for landing, stating that suspicious funds would be handed over to the Lebanese state. A designated stopping area was assigned to the plane, ensuring no Hezbollah members could approach it. The authorities aimed to confirm the cargo’s contents and maintain airport security during the inspection process.
IAF Jets Destroy Hezbollah Launch Pads Posing Threat to Israeli Civilians, Soldiers
Israeli Air Force jets struck Hezbollah rocket launchers in Southern Lebanon on January 2, 2025, after the Lebanese Armed Forces failed to act on Israel’s request to confiscate the launch pads. The attacks targeted Hezbollah sites in Nabatieh, which housed medium-range missiles. Israel reiterated its commitment to neutralizing threats per the November ceasefire agreement and warned that it may need to maintain troops in Southern Lebanon if the Lebanese Army’s deployment remains delayed.
Israel Violates Ceasefire with Incursion into Lebanese Town
Despite the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, Israeli forces violated it by entering Beit Leif, southern Lebanon, on Thursday. The patrol, supported by Merkava tanks and bulldozers, searched the town and nearby villages. This marks the first incursion since September 23. Israel has committed 344 violations since the ceasefire began, resulting in 32 deaths and 39 injuries in Lebanon. Tensions remain high, and Israel’s actions continue to escalate the conflict in the region.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Israeli Negotiators to Head to Qatar During Reported Progress in Hostage Talks
Prime Minister Netanyahu authorized an Israeli delegation to travel to Qatar for hostage-ceasefire talks with Hamas, following reported progress. The team, including officials from Mossad, Shin Bet, and the IDF, will continue negotiations with Hamas representatives. While challenges remain, including hostage lists and ceasefire terms, both sides have expressed some optimism. The talks aim to secure the return of Israeli hostages before the U.S. presidential transition. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum urges swift action to seize the opportunity.
Al-Quds Brigades Claims Rocket Attack on Houlit Settlement, Israel Intercepts Gaza Rocket
Al-Quds Brigades, the military wing of Islamic Jihad, claimed responsibility for a rocket attack on the Houlit settlement in Israel, using 107 rockets. The Israeli military reported intercepting one of the rockets with air defense systems, causing no casualties or damage. This attack comes during Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza. which have resulted in significant casualties and destruction since October 7, 2023, despite international calls for accountability over Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Israel Confirms Killing of Hamas Internal Security Chief in Gaza
An Israeli airstrike on Thursday killed 11 Palestinians, including Hamas’s internal security chief Mahmoud Salah and deputy Hussam Shahwan, in Khan Younis. The attack, targeting a displacement tent in the Al-Mawasi area, also killed four children and three women, with 15 others injured. The Israeli military is investigating the incident. Hamas condemned the attack, viewing it as an effort to destabilize Gaza and deepen the suffering of its people during the ongoing conflict.
71 Martyrs from 34 Israeli Airstrikes on Gaza in 24 Hours
Israeli airstrikes on Gaza over 24 hours killed 71 Palestinians and injured many others, targeting civilians and infrastructure. Hospitals are overwhelmed during medical shortages. with bodies left in streets as Israeli forces blocked recovery efforts, violating international law. This marks the 454th day of Israel’s ongoing genocide against Palestinians, with widespread destruction and violations of human rights. The attacks add to the catastrophic toll, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and continuing Israel’s destructive actions in Gaza.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkey Initiates Talks with Syria for Strategic Relations and Cooperation
Turkish Ministry of Defense sources revealed that discussions are ongoing with Syrian counterparts to establish strategic relations and cooperation in various fields following the activation of government institutions in Damascus. The talks are expected to lead to the development of a roadmap based on specific needs identified during these discussions. The Ministry also emphasized the commitment to confronting “terrorist organizations” in Syria as part of the new phase, aligning with the stance of the new Syrian administration.
Fidan: Turkey Will Protect Any Group in Trouble in Syria
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that Turkey will act as a protector for any majority or minority group facing difficulties during the new phase in Syria. In a press conference held Thursday in Ankara with Belgian Foreign Minister Bernard Quintin, Fidan emphasized that Turkey would support any group in need, regardless of their identity.
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★ IRAN
Iran Established 13 Spy Networks in Israel in 2024
According to Israel’s Shin Bet security service, Iran set up 13 espionage networks in Israel in 2024, involving 37 individuals. This marked a record high, with a 400% increase in the number of spies. The majority of these spies were Jewish citizens motivated by greed for money, and they were willing to engage in dangerous operations, including helping assassinate Israeli political and security figures. The cyber warfare also intensified significantly last year, with Israel facing thousands of cyberattacks, of which only 700 were thwarted.
Iran Denies Ties to Houthis at the United Nations
Iran rejected claims of its connection to the Houthi group in Yemen, describing allegations made by Israel’s UN envoy, Danny Danon, as “false” and aimed at justifying aggressive policies. In a letter to the UN Secretary-General and the President of the Security Council, Iran’s Ambassador to the UN, Amir Saeed Iravani, emphasized that Israel’s accusations were “groundless” and part of a provocative campaign intended to destabilize the region.
Rome and Tehran Summon Ambassadors Over Arrest of Italian Journalist
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stated that Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Italy’s Ambassador to Tehran, Paola Amadei, following the arrest of journalist Cecilia Sala in Tehran two weeks ago. Sala was detained while working with a regular journalistic visa. The summoning of the Italian ambassador came hours after Rome had summoned the Iranian ambassador, Mohammad Reza Sabouri, demanding the “immediate release” of the Italian journalist. Reports from Italian media indicate that the journalist is being held in solitary confinement, sleeping on the floor.
Axios: Biden Discussed Plans to Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites
White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan presented U.S. President Joe Biden with options for a “potential U.S. strike” on Iranian nuclear facilities, should Iran move closer to acquiring nuclear weapons before Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20. Three sources told Axios that Sullivan briefed Biden on the details of the attack in a meeting held several weeks ago, which remained confidential until now. The sources indicated that Biden did not give the “green light” for the strike during the meeting, nor has he done so since. Biden and his national security team discussed various options and scenarios during the meeting, but no final decision was made, according to the sources.
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★ IRAQ
Sulaimaniyah Bans Organizations Over Alleged PKK Affiliations
Authorities in Sulaimaniyah, a Kurdish city in Iraq, have banned four organizations accused of ties to the Turkish-designated Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). Among the banned entities are two feminist groups and a media production house, according to activists and the METRO Center for Press Freedoms. Activists have criticized the decision, labeling it as politically motivated.
Israel Pursues Talks for Release of Kidnapped Researcher in Iraq
Israeli officials have recently resumed third-party communications to secure the release of kidnapped Israeli researcher Elizabeth Tsurkov, according to i24NEWS. Previous attempts at negotiations had stalled but have now reentered preliminary stages.
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★ YEMEN
Houthi Announces 22 Operations Against Israeli Targets in One Week
Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi announced 22 operations this week targeting Israeli and U.S. assets using missiles and drones. These included strikes on Tel Aviv, Ben Gurion Airport, Negev Air Base, and a power station, plus an attack on a ship violating a blockade in the Arabian Sea. The group also targeted the USS Harry Truman with 11 missiles. In retaliation, the U.S. and UK launched airstrikes on Houthi positions, marking a year of escalating conflict in Yemen with significant casualties.
Houthi Leader Dismisses Impact of Israeli Strikes in Yemen
Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi downplayed the impact of recent Israeli strikes on presumed Houthi positions in northern and western Yemen. In his weekly speech broadcast on Al-Masirah TV, al-Houthi stated that neither Israeli, American, nor British actions would deter his group’s support for Gaza. He emphasized their open war against Israel, vowing intensified operations despite ongoing airstrikes.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Qatar Airways Resumes Flights to Syria After 13 Years
Qatar Airways announced the resumption of flights to Syria starting January 7, marking the end of a 13-year suspension. The airline will operate three weekly flights to Syrian cities, as stated in an official announcement on its website. Qatar Airways confirmed close collaboration with relevant authorities to ensure that all flights to Syria meet required safety, security, and operational standards before restarting operations.
Saudi Arabia Secures $2.5 Billion Sharia-Compliant Facility
The Saudi National Debt Management Center finalized a $2.5 billion Sharia-compliant revolving credit facility for the general budget, spanning three years. Supported by three regional and international financial institutions, this facility aligns with Saudi Arabia’s medium-term debt strategy to diversify funding, manage risks, and ensure fair pricing. It complements the annual borrowing plan, targeting alternative financing for economic growth through development and infrastructure projects.
Saudi Trade Balance Grows 30% in October 2024
Saudi Arabia’s trade balance grew by 30% month-on-month in October 2024, increasing by over 4 billion SAR. The surplus reached 20.77 billion SAR ($5.53 billion), compared to 15.9 billion SAR in September, according to preliminary data from the Kingdom’s recently released International Trade Bulletin.
Oman Records $1.4 Billion Budget Surplus in 2024
Oman recorded a $1.4 billion budget surplus in 2024, driven by higher oil prices, which averaged $82 per barrel. Revenues reached $32.98 billion, 15% above projections, while expenditures were 4% below expected, totaling $30.26 billion. This turnaround reversed a predicted deficit of $1.66 billion. Fitch Ratings upgraded Oman’s outlook to positive, highlighting the country’s fiscal resilience and ability to manage financial challenges.
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★ EGYPT & NORTH AFRICA
$12.8 Billion in EU Grants and Funding to Egypt Over Four Years
The Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation released its annual report, highlighting advancements in bilateral and multilateral relations. This report reflects the efforts of the ministry to enhance Egypt’s relations with the European Union, particularly following the elevation of their partnership to a strategic level. The EU has provided Egypt with a total of $12.8 billion in grants and funding over the past four years, reinforcing Egypt’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with the international community, especially after the merger of the two ministries.
UN Calls for $4.2 Billion to Address Sudan’s Urgent Needs
The United Nations has called for $4.2 billion to meet Sudan’s most urgent humanitarian needs for nearly half of its population in the coming year. The UN highlighted that around 21 million Sudanese are considered the most vulnerable. The international organization urged the humanitarian community to intervene urgently to alleviate the conflict, describing the crisis as “the worst in history.” UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Clementine Nkuita Salami, announced a plan for 2025 to raise the required funds, emphasizing that the crisis has reached unprecedented and historical levels.
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