★ SYRIA
First International Flight Reaches Syria After al-Assad’s Removal
Qatar Airways marked a historic milestone as the first international commercial flight landed at Damascus International Airport since the removal of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The aircraft’s arrival on Tuesday was met with emotional scenes as passengers reunited with awaiting relatives and friends inside the terminal. This event signifies a step toward Syria’s reintegration into the international aviation network following a significant political transition.
Syria Plans Inclusive National Dialogue Conference
Syria will carefully prepare for a landmark national dialogue conference to include all societal segments, Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani stated on Tuesday via state media. The conference seeks to unite Syrians in shaping the country’s future after Islamist rebels ousted President Bashar al-Assad, who fled to Russia following his family’s 54-year rule.
Syria and Jordan Strengthen Security Cooperation
Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi pledged cooperation with Syria’s new authorities to combat drug and weapons smuggling along their shared border. During a meeting in Amman with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, Safadi discussed border security, countering terrorism, and preventing Daesh’s resurgence. Al-Shaibani’s visit is part of a regional tour, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. Safadi emphasized joint efforts to address regional challenges and enhance stability.
Syria to Receive Electricity Ships from Turkey and Qatar
Syria will receive two electricity-generating ships from Turkey and Qatar to address energy shortages caused by infrastructure damage during Bashar al-Assad’s rule, state news agency SANA reported Tuesday. Khaled Abu Dai, director general of the General Establishment for Electricity Transmission and Distribution, stated the ships would supply 800 megawatts of electricity. However, details on the duration of the supply were not disclosed.
Secret Document Reveals Syria-Russia Money Smuggling Operation
Between 2020 and 2024, Syrian Air conducted weekly flights smuggling $20 million to Russia under strict intelligence supervision. Funds were sent from Damascus Airport to Moscow’s Syrian Embassy, later invested in properties, companies, and banks. Mohammed Makhlouf, Bashar Assad’s uncle, managed operations while his sons purchased luxury Moscow apartments. These activities occurred as most Syrians endured extreme poverty and economic collapse, highlighting corruption and exploitation during Assad’s regime.
Israel and France Support PKK/YPG During Post-Assad Syria
Israel and France reaffirmed support for the PKK/YPG following Assad’s ouster. Israel criticized Türkiye’s strikes on PKK/YPG and urged international pressure, while France called them “freedom fighters” and promised continued backing. Türkiye opposes PKK/YPG, citing 40,000 deaths and their occupation of northern Syria, warning of military action if disbandment fails. Relations between Türkiye and Israel remain strained, worsened by Türkiye’s condemnation of Israel’s Gaza actions as genocide.
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★ ISRAEL
Ultra-Orthodox Recruitment in Israeli Army Sees Significant Increase
The Israeli army reported a sharp rise in ultra-Orthodox recruits in 2024, with 338 joining various units, including combat roles. Additionally, 7,000 call-up orders were issued, meeting Defense Ministry goals. Recruitment programs were adapted to respect religious practices while ensuring inclusivity and addressing national security needs. This development underscores the army’s emphasis on integrating all societal sectors to strengthen operational capabilities and fulfill Israel’s growing defense requirements.
Israel Boosts Defense Independence with Local Bomb Production
Israel’s Defense Ministry signed $275 million deals with Elbit Systems to produce heavy bombs and raw materials locally. The initiative enhances IDF’s operational independence, reducing reliance on delayed U.S. supplies. Elbit will manufacture thousands of munitions and establish advanced production facilities for defense materials. This move addresses wartime lessons, ensuring sustainable military capabilities across conflict zones and strengthening Israel’s self-sufficiency in critical defense manufacturing.
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★ LEBANON
UN Appeals for $370 Million to Aid Lebanon’s War Victims
The UN and Lebanon requested $371.4 million to support 1 million Lebanese, Syrian, and Palestinian refugees affected by the Israel-Hezbollah conflict. Over 125,000 remain displaced, struggling to rebuild lives despite the return of 800,000 following the November 2024 ceasefire. The funds aim to provide urgent humanitarian aid through March 2025 and prevent further deterioration in living conditions, highlighting the need for global support to address Lebanon’s severe humanitarian crisis effectively.
Iran Allegedly Using Turkish Airspace to Supply Hezbollah
Between December 2024 and January 2025, Iran’s Mahan Air conducted 11 flights over Turkish airspace to Lebanon, reportedly transporting weapons to Hezbollah. This route replaces Iran’s disrupted land corridor through Syria. The flights carried anti-tank missiles and drones using Airbus A340 and A300 aircraft. Turkey’s allowance of these flights, despite its past opposition to Iran-backed forces, may reflect President Erdoğan’s tensions with Israel, raising regional security concerns over Iran’s resupply efforts to Hezbollah.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Israel Accuses Hamas of Blocking Gaza Ceasefire Agreement
Israel accused Hamas of obstructing a Gaza ceasefire, urging international pressure for progress. Hamas agreed to exchange 34 prisoners but conditioned the deal on Israel’s Gaza withdrawal and a permanent ceasefire, demands Israel rejects. Mediated talks by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. continue ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration, with hopes for a resolution to the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Israel claims Hamas remains the primary obstacle to securing an agreement and releasing Israeli captives.
Hamas Exploits Syrian Chaos, Targets Global Israeli and Jewish Interests
Hamas, bolstered by Syrian instability and Iranian support, has embedded 2,000 operatives alongside 7,000 Islamic Jihad members, orchestrating global terror plots targeting Israelis, Jewish communities, and embassies. Israeli intelligence dismantled Hamas networks in Europe, thwarting attacks in Denmark, Germany, and other regions. Hamas’s plans include drone acquisitions and mobilizing criminal organizations for coordinated strikes. Despite persistent threats, Israeli efforts and international cooperation have foiled numerous attacks worldwide, showcasing resilience against the group’s expanding ambitions.
Dozens Killed in Gaza, Resistance Seizes Israeli Drones
Israeli airstrikes on Gaza killed 52 Palestinians, including children, targeting homes and camps in multiple areas. Palestinian resistance seized Israeli drones and launched attacks on military vehicles. Gaza’s health ministry warned of a humanitarian crisis due to fuel shortages and aid theft. Israel reported soldier casualties while claiming operational success despite intensified resistance. The conflict continues with devastating human losses and growing challenges for both sides.
IAF Eliminates Terrorists Behind October 7 Gaza Massacre
The Israel Air Force targeted and eliminated key terrorists responsible for the October 7 massacre during precision strikes in Khan Yunis, Gaza. Among those killed was Islamic Jihad commander Sa’ed Saeed Zaki Dahnoun, linked to ambushes against Israeli forces. The operation, guided by Shin Bet and military intelligence, employed advanced surveillance and precision munitions to minimize civilian harm. The IDF emphasized Hamas’s exploitation of civilians as human shields while reaffirming its mission to dismantle terror networks.
IDF Chief Halevi Vows Relentless Operations Until Hostages Freed
IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi pledged to intensify operations in Gaza, stressing relentless pressure until Hamas releases all hostages. Speaking from Jabalya, he highlighted ongoing efforts to minimize Israeli casualties while targeting Hamas operatives. Halevi emphasized pushing Hamas to an unbearable position to secure the hostages’ release. Earlier, a Hamas member arrested at Kamal Adwan Hospital exposed its use for weapon storage and attacks. Halevi reaffirmed Israel’s unwavering commitment to the hostages’ safe return.
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★ TURKIYE
Erdoğan and Barzani Discuss Regional Cooperation and Syria’s Transition
Turkish President Erdoğan met Iraqi KRG Prime Minister Barzani in Ankara to discuss bilateral ties, security, and regional developments. Talks focused on economic, energy, and transportation cooperation, joint efforts against the PKK, and Syria’s post-Assad transition. Erdoğan emphasized Syria’s unity, rejecting terrorism’s exploitation during its rebuilding, and reaffirmed Türkiye’s readiness for decisive action to ensure stability and eliminate threats.
Erdoğan Calls for Global Support to Rebuild Syria
Turkish President Erdoğan highlighted Syria’s war damages exceeding $500 billion, urging international contributions for comprehensive reconstruction. He emphasized the collapse of the Baath regime as a historic opportunity for Syria and the region. Erdoğan called for rebuilding infrastructure, economy, agriculture, and industry while addressing worsening conditions on the ground. He stressed Syria’s developments as vital for Türkiye’s regional security, underscoring the need for global cooperation to achieve sustainable recovery and long-term stability.
Turkey Threatens YPG With Military Action in Syria
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned of a cross-border operation against the YPG if Ankara’s demands are ignored. President Erdoğan, meeting KRG’s Masrour Barzani, emphasized that there is no room for terrorist organizations in Syria’s future. Türkiye accuses the YPG of PKK ties and vowed their elimination is imminent. Criticizing Western support for the YPG under anti-ISIS claims, Türkiye reaffirmed its commitment to Syria’s stability and integration of Kurdish forces into the Syrian national army.
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★ IRAN
American Concern Over Iran’s Attempt to Reassert Military Presence in Syria
The U.S. is concerned about Iran’s efforts to re-establish its military presence in Syria, including Hezbollah’s supply lines. Despite Iran’s significant troop withdrawal following the fall of Assad’s regime last month, which dealt a blow to its regional strategy, Western and regional officials have expressed concerns. A senior U.S. official told The Wall Street Journal that Iran’s retreat from Syria marks the end of Tehran’s regional efforts to exert influence and wage proxy wars against the U.S. and Israel. Iran spent billions of dollars supporting Assad during the war and deployed Revolutionary Guard troops to help keep its ally in power.
Iran Prepares to Resume Flights to Damascus Despite Restrictions
The head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization announced plans to resume flights to Damascus, following the temporary suspension since December 8. Damascus International Airport resumed flights after a brief hiatus, as confirmed by the airport’s press office to TASS. The source stated that both arrivals and departures had restarted, with a Qatar Airways flight from Doha to Damascus scheduled for Tuesday. The U.S. has decided to maintain sanctions on Syria but has eased restrictions on humanitarian aid.
Iran Prepares to Resume Flights to Damascus While Facing Restrictions
Iran’s defense systems successfully intercepted bunker-busting projectiles targeting its nuclear facilities, including Natanz, during ongoing national military drills in Isfahan province. These projectiles, known for their ability to penetrate underground structures, are among the most feared military arsenals worldwide. Despite significant media attention, security analyst and defense expert Mohammad Sheltouki emphasized that this development is not new. He confirmed that Iran has routinely practiced intercepting such weapons during military exercises for several years.
Iran Uses Fake Documents and Signals to Smuggle Sanctioned Oil Worldwide
The oil tanker “Remy” carried a dual identity. In February 2023, it was heading to Malaysia under the Panama flag, carrying one million barrels of oil from Iraq, according to a certificate held by its captain. The document, a certificate of origin obtained by Reuters from the Basra oil port in southern Iraq, confirmed the ship was loaded with crude oil from there on February 22, 2023. However, the reality was entirely different. The tanker was part of a vast oil smuggling network and was also known as “Deep Ocean,” secretly transporting crude oil from another country—Iran. The captain held a second certificate of origin from the National Iranian Oil Company, dated the same day.
France Urges Citizens to Avoid Travel to Iran Until Hostages Are Released
On Tuesday, France advised its citizens to avoid traveling to Iran until the release of French nationals held there. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated, “The situation of our citizens being held hostage in Iran is completely unacceptable. They have been unjustly detained for several years under inhumane conditions.” He urged French citizens not to travel to Iran until the “release of our hostages.”French authorities confirmed that three French nationals are currently being detained in Iran.
UN: Iran Executed Over 900 People in 2024, Including Dozens of Women
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights reported on Tuesday that Iran executed 901 individuals in 2024, including 31 women. Some of these women were convicted for killing their husbands to avoid rape or because they were forced into marriage. The UN statement highlighted that most executions were related to drug crimes, but political opponents and individuals connected to the 2022 mass protests—sparked by the death of a 22-year-old woman in police custody—were also among those executed.
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★ IRAQ
Iraq to Reopen Al Qaim Border Crossing with Syria
Iraq plans to reopen the Al Qaim border crossing with Syria within days for travelers and goods, signaling improved relations between Baghdad and Damascus under Iraq’s interim government. The crossing, located in Anbar province, 400km west of Baghdad, was closed last month after Hayat Tahrir Al Sham-led Syrian rebels captured the Albukamal crossing in eastern Deir Ezzor province. The rebels’ offensive culminated in their entry into Damascus and the overthrow of Bashar Al Assad’s regime.
Iraqi Air Force Targets ISIS Hideouts in Hamrin Mountains
The Iraqi Air Force executed precision airstrikes on ISIS hideouts in the Hamrin Mountains of Kirkuk province, the Joint Operations Command (JOC) announced Tuesday. Based on intelligence from the Counter-Terrorism Service, and supported by the JOC’s targeting cell and the Global Coalition, F-16 fighter jets destroyed key militant hideouts and caves in the rugged terrain, previously deemed unreachable by Iraqi forces. The strikes represent a significant blow to ISIS operations in the region.
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★ YEMEN
Iranian Source Reveals Israeli Plot to Assassinate Houthi Leader
An Iranian source close to the Quds Force disclosed that Tehran warned Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi of an Israeli assassination plot, coordinated with Washington. According to the source, who spoke to “Erem News” on condition of anonymity, Iran conveyed the warning through its ambassador in Sana’a, Ali Mohammed Rezai. Intelligence gathered from within and outside Yemen reportedly confirms Israeli-trained operatives are preparing for the operation.
Houthi Militia Targets Government Forces in Eastern Taiz
Houthi militia, described as Iran’s proxies, launched heavy artillery attacks on government forces in Taiz, southwest Yemen, Tuesday evening. Field sources reported that the shelling focused on the vicinity of the Al-Tashrifat camp, east of Taiz city, causing material damage with no confirmed human casualties yet. This escalation is part of ongoing violations by the militia in Taiz and other government-controlled areas.
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★ GULF NATIONS
UAE and Israeli Foreign Ministers Discuss Gaza Ceasefire
UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar on Tuesday in Abu Dhabi to discuss bilateral relations and the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. According to WAM, talks focused on regional and international efforts to achieve a sustainable ceasefire. Sheikh Abdullah emphasized the urgent need for serious political prospects to resume negotiations for a comprehensive peace based on a two-state solution, aiming to stabilize the region and end the ongoing violence.
Qatar’s Emir Discusses Regional Developments With Brazil’s President
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva discussed strengthening bilateral relations. The $1.4 billion trade volume reflects strong economic ties, with advanced relations enabling strategic partnerships in energy, economy, and investment. Doha hosted the Brazilian President to address political issues, Gaza developments, and cooperation expansion. Qatar’s Emir also attended the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, focusing on global challenges under sustainability and justice themes.
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★ EGYPT & North Africa
Egypt Records Highest Export Value in Its History, Reaching $40 Billion
The Egyptian government announced that its exports reached a record $40 billion in 2024, marking a historic milestone.
In a statement, Egypt’s Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, Hassan Al-Khatib, confirmed that exports in 2024 have reached this unprecedented figure. During a meeting with export council leaders, the minister emphasized the government’s goal to increase exports to $145 billion by 2030. Egypt’s commodity exports in 2023 amounted to $35.63 billion.
Egypt’s Foreign Assets Decline by $3.25 Billion in November
The Central Bank of Egypt’s data revealed a $3.25 billion decrease in net foreign assets in November, marking the second decline in two months.
According to Reuters, the decline is attributed to pressures on the local currency due to imminent foreign obligations. Based on official exchange rates, net foreign assets fell to $5.96 billion in November from $9.21 billion at the end of October. This drop follows a reduction of $1.12 billion in October.
Biden Administration Accuses Sudanese Rebel Forces of Genocide and Imposes Sanctions
On Tuesday, the Biden administration announced its determination that Sudanese militia groups and their affiliates are committing genocide in the country’s ongoing civil war and imposed sanctions on their leader and affiliated companies. In a statement, Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that the conflict, now the world’s largest humanitarian disaster, has escalated beyond war crimes and ethnic cleansing, actions which were previously condemned in December 2023.
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