★ SYRIA
Syria and Lebanon Leaders Pledge Renewed Ties During Historic Visit
Syria’s new leader, and Lebanon’s Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, committed to fostering strong bilateral relations during Mikati’s visit to Damascus. This marks the first trip by a Lebanese head of government since Syria’s civil war began in 2011. The visit followed the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime last month after Islamist-led rebels took control of Damascus. Past Lebanese governments avoided Syria due to Hezbollah’s backing of Assad during the conflict. Al-Sharaa emphasized turning a new page in relations, coinciding with Lebanon’s resolution of a two-year political stalemate by electing a president. Both nations aim to rebuild ties and ensure regional stability.
Syria’s Foreign Minister Engages in High-Level Talks in Riyadh
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani held bilateral meetings with Arab and international counterparts during Riyadh-hosted discussions on Syria’s post-Assad landscape. Al-Shaibani met Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, Jordan’s Ayman Safadi, Bahrain’s Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani, Turkey’s Hakan Fidan, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and UN envoy Geir Pedersen. These talks occurred during Arab and Western ministerial gatherings addressing Syria’s evolving political and humanitarian situation following last month’s fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Specific details of the discussions were not disclosed.
Syrian Forces Disrupt Islamic State Plot Targeting Damascus Shrine
Syria’s Interior Ministry announced the successful prevention of an Islamic State (IS) bombing plot against the Sayyidah Zaynab shrine near Damascus, a sacred site for Shi’ite Muslims. Authorities arrested four suspects and confiscated weapons, ammunition, grenades, communication devices, and cash. The operation underscores ongoing threats to key religious sites and the vigilance of Syrian security forces.
Germany Pledges €50 Million More in Aid to Syria
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock announced an additional €50 million in aid to Syria for food, emergency shelters, and medical care. Speaking in Riyadh during a regional conference with Western and Arab foreign ministers, including Syria’s Asaad Al-Shaibani, Baerbock emphasized Berlin’s proposal for a “smart sanctions” approach to provide some relief to the Syrian population.
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★ ISRAEL
Israel Approves Diplomatic Appointments, Names Envoy to Bahrain
Israel approved 11 key diplomatic postings, including Shmuel Revel as envoy to Bahrain, pending Manama’s approval. In succeeding Eitan Na’eh, Revel brings experience as ambassador to Cyprus and trade officer in Qatar. Despite Bahrain recalling its envoy during Israel’s Gaza conflict, bilateral ties remain stable under the Abraham Accords. Other appointments include Ronen Kraus to Azerbaijan, Eliaz Luf to Montreal, Elad Strohmayer to Chicago, and Eitan Weiss to Atlanta, strengthening Israel’s global diplomatic network.
Israel and PA Agree to Release Withheld Tax Revenues
Israel and the Palestinian Authority finalized a U.S.-mediated deal to release $500 million in tax revenues, settling fuel and electricity debts. The agreement improves the PA’s financial standing with banks but excludes $570 million in Gaza-specific funds withheld over Hamas concerns. Israel also deducts amounts equal to PA “martyr payments,” leaving over $980 million still frozen. The deal aims to stabilize PA finances and direct funds toward essential services and debt repayment, alleviating financial pressure.
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★ LEBANON
Lebanese Army Deploys South Following Israeli Withdrawal
The Lebanese army deployed in Ramia and southern villages following Israel’s gradual withdrawal under the ceasefire agreement. Coordinating with UNIFIL, units are securing areas, removing unexploded ordnance, and dismantling unauthorized military sites. Despite the truce, Israel committed 455 violations, including airstrikes and demolitions. The agreement mandates Israel’s pullback to the Blue Line and Lebanese forces as the sole armed authority in the south, ensuring stability and adherence to the ceasefire terms.
Aoun Vows to Resolve Issues and Strengthen Syrian-Lebanese Relations
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun pledged to address unresolved issues with Syria and strengthen bilateral ties during a call with the Syrian leader. This followed PM Najib Mikati’s visit to Damascus, where both nations committed to strategic, sovereign-based relations. Aoun’s inaugural speech, praised by Maronite Patriarch Bechara al-Rahi, emphasized justice, institutional reform, and combating corruption, drug smuggling, and money laundering, enhancing domestic and international confidence in Lebanon’s renewed governance vision.
Biden Redirects Military Aid to Support Lebanon Ceasefire
The Biden administration redirected $100 million in military aid from Israel and Egypt to Lebanon, bolstering the Lebanese Armed Forces and U.N. peacekeeping efforts along the Blue Line. Additional funds support Lebanon’s Internal Security Forces, Palestinian Authority police, and Jordan’s Public Security Directorate. Under a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, Israeli forces withdraw from Southern Lebanon as Hezbollah retreats north of the Litani River, aiming to stabilize the region and prevent further hostilities.
IDF Strikes Hezbollah Targets During South Lebanon Withdrawal Preparations
The IDF conducted drone strikes in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah operatives near Mount Dov and Kounine, and hitting rocket launchers, a military site, and smuggling routes on the Syria-Lebanon border. These actions follow unaddressed warnings to an international ceasefire mechanism and come ahead of Israel’s January 26 withdrawal under a U.S.-brokered truce requiring Hezbollah’s retreat north of the Litani River. Lebanese Armed Forces and UNIFIL will assume control as Lebanese leaders pledge to disarm Hezbollah and stabilize the region.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Netanyahu Advances Gaza Deal During High-Level International Coordination
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu excluded ministers from secret Gaza deal talks in Doha, emphasizing the agreement’s necessity despite imperfections. He dispatched Mossad and Shin Bet chiefs and other officials to finalize negotiations while managing Gaza tensions and ensuring confidentiality. Netanyahu discussed ceasefire progress, hostage release, and regional impacts, including Lebanon’s truce and Assad’s fall, with President Joe Biden. President-elect Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, also arrived in Israel to accelerate the deal’s completion before Trump’s January 20 inauguration.
Israeli Losses and Rocket Interception During Gaza Conflict Escalation
Eight Israeli soldiers were injured in Jabalia, while four were killed and two critically injured in Beit Hanoun explosions. Mounting losses have led Israel to adjust combat strategies, with 11 soldiers killed and 20 injured since operations began. Meanwhile, the Israeli military intercepted a rocket from southern Gaza targeting Kerem Shalom as airstrikes continue in northern Gaza.
Saraya Al-Quds Targets Israeli Forces in Gaza Operations
Saraya Al-Quds released footage showing the explosion of a house in Jabalia camp, targeting an Israeli special force. The video featured rigging the house with explosives and observing soldiers before detonation. Another clip captured a Merkava tank being hit in Beit Lahia with a tandem warhead, causing a fire. Since October 2023, resistance factions have shared videos of attacks on Israeli forces, highlighting anti-armor missiles, sniping, and ambushes across Gaza battlefronts.
Israel Continues Gaza Strikes, Thousands Killed and Displaced
Israeli airstrikes on Gaza killed nine Palestinians, including four at a school for displaced civilians and five in Shujaiya. In northern Gaza, 5,000 have been killed or are missing, and 9,400 injured during 100 days of Israeli operations. Most infrastructure in Jabalia, Beit Lahia, and Beit Hanoun is destroyed, and hospitals are nonfunctional. With U.S. support, Israel’s 16-month offensive has caused over 156,000 casualties, devastating Gaza’s homes, schools, and medical facilities.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkey Vows Decisive Blow Against Kurds in Syria
Turkey escalates military operations in northern Syria, aiming to eliminate Kurdish threats and ensure regional security. President Erdoğan announced successes against terrorism, warning Kurdish militants to disarm or face elimination. Intense clashes near Tishrin Dam raised fears of humanitarian disaster, prompting the Autonomous Administration to call for international intervention. The U.S. and France acknowledged Turkey’s security concerns but urged stability. Meanwhile, Turkey is preparing to reopen its Aleppo consulate, which has been closed since 2012, During broader diplomatic efforts.
Turkey Upgrades Anka Drone with L-UMTAS for Precision Strikes
Turkey’s TUSAS equipped the Anka drone with Roketsan’s L-UMTAS missile, enhancing its capability to strike armored targets with precision. The drone operates for over 24 hours at altitudes of 9,000 meters, using advanced sensors and satellite communication for real-time surveillance. The L-UMTAS missile features laser guidance, tandem warheads, and an 8-kilometer range, ensuring accurate hits on moving and stationary targets. This integration boosts Anka’s efficiency, advancing Turkey’s combat capabilities and operational effectiveness in diverse conditions.
Fidan Engages in Diplomacy on Syria, Energy, and Regional Stability
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held critical discussions with Arab, EU, and Russian officials on Syria’s future, energy security, and Ukraine. In Riyadh, Fidan emphasized sanctions relief, combating ISIL, and rebuilding efforts, urging regional cooperation and the dissolution of the SDF for integration. Concurrently, in talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Fidan addressed energy collaboration and the geopolitical impact of Ukraine, underscoring Turkey’s active role in shaping regional stability and addressing global challenges.
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★ IRAN
France Summons Iranian Ambassador Over Unacceptable Conditions for French Hostages
France summoned the Iranian ambassador in Paris on Friday to protest the situation of French “state hostages” imprisoned in Iran, according to the French Foreign Ministry. The ministry stated in a statement, “We firmly reiterated our demand for the immediate release of French nationals who are state hostages in Tehran, enduring conditions that are unbearable, and for some, amount to torture under international law.” Currently, three French citizens are held in Iranian prisons.
Iran Reveals Rare Footage of Underground Facility Used to Attack Israel
Iran’s state TV broadcast rare footage showing Revolutionary Guard Commander Hossein Salami visiting an underground missile base housing dozens of missiles. The base was reportedly used in October to launch nearly 200 missiles at Israel, including hypersonic missiles for the first time. The Iranian TV aired the footage without revealing the specific location, following a military parade in Tehran attended by thousands of Revolutionary Guard members, heavy weapons, and military vehicles. This marks a significant display of Iran’s missile capabilities and readiness to confront threats.
Iran Enhances Air Defense Measures for Strategic Nuclear Facilities
Iran’s military air defense units conducted a training exercise to bolster protection for the country’s key nuclear facilities, including the Fordo site. This move comes as Tehran accelerates its uranium enrichment process, raising concerns about the future direction of its nuclear program. The Iranian army, alongside the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), initiated the annual “Eghtedar” military drills, set to conclude by mid-March. According to the official news agency, IRNA, the exercises were carried out late on Saturday near the Fordo facility, located in the mountains of Qom, 160 kilometers south of Tehran.
Iran Appoints New Ambassador to Syria During Regional Developments
Iran announced on Sunday the appointment of a new ambassador to Syria, joining other countries that have reopened their embassies in Damascus following a new administration’s rise to power. A statement from Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, signed by Minister Abbas Araghchi, confirmed the appointment of Mohammad Reza Rouh Shibani as the new ambassador to Syria. In the letter, Araghchi emphasized Shibani’s prominent diplomatic experience, noting his role as a special representative for Iranian affairs in Syria.
Italy Releases Iranian Wanted by the United States
Italy released an Iranian national on Sunday, who was wanted by the United States after the Italian Minister of Justice requested the court to lift his arrest warrant. The released individual, Mohammad Abedini, is sought by the U.S. on charges related to his involvement in a drone strike in Jordan last year, which resulted in the deaths of three Americans. Italian newspapers reported on Abedini’s release, while Iranian state television confirmed that the Iranian national had already returned to his country.
Iran Allegedly Agrees to Send 1,500 Drones to Syrian Kurds
Iran reportedly agreed to supply 1,500 suicide drones to the Kurdish YPG/PKK in Syria, aiming to counter Turkey’s military operations. The agreement followed a meeting between Iranian officials and Kurdish representatives in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq. However, heightened Turkish surveillance and threats to intercept shipments have delayed the transfer. Turkey, which designates YPG/PKK as terrorist groups, remains committed to blocking the drones, straining Iran-YPG/PKK cooperation.
Iran Rushes to Sell Oil Stored in China to Fund Militias
Iran has expedited the sale of nearly 3 million barrels of oil stored in China, sources revealed, in an effort to raise funds for supporting Iran-aligned militias in the Middle East. This oil is part of a larger reserve of at least 25 million barrels sent to China in late 2018 when Iran feared that renewed sanctions by the Trump administration would hinder its ability to export oil. The move highlights Iran’s ongoing efforts to navigate economic pressures while sustaining its regional influence.
Iran Faces Severe Electricity Crisis, Highlighting Systemic Failures
Iran is grappling with a severe electricity crisis that underscores the “depth of the system’s bankruptcy” and its inability to provide effective solutions, experts say. Despite the country’s vast oil and gas resources, authorities have been forced to close schools and public buildings in several cities. This move highlights the government’s failure to manage state resources and address the growing suffering of the population.
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★ IRAQ
Iraq Strengthens Borders After Assad’s Fall
Iraq fortified its border with Syria, constructing concrete walls, and trenches, and deploying troops to counter terrorist infiltration and smuggling. The measures target threats from camps like al-Hol housing ISIS members. Iraq plans to purchase South Korean air defense systems and French helicopters during U.S. troop withdrawal concerns. Experts emphasize the importance of enhanced defenses for regional stability and combating illegal trafficking. These efforts underscore Iraq’s commitment to securing its borders and addressing evolving security challenges.
Iraqi Airstrike Eliminates Four Daesh Members, Including Leaders
An Iraqi airstrike in the Hamrin Mountains killed four Daesh militants, including two senior leaders, security officials reported. The Iraqi Security Media Cell confirmed the operation, carried out by F-16 fighter jets on Friday, and stated that the bodies of the militants were recovered at the strike site. This marks a significant blow to Daesh’s leadership in eastern Iraq.
Iraq Announces Significant 70% Drop in Armed Conflicts
Iraq’s Interior Ministry announced a 70% reduction in armed conflicts, attributing it to the success of the state’s disarmament campaign launched in March 2023. Through over 600 government centers nationwide, the initiative facilitates the purchase of light and medium weapons from citizens to curb unlicensed arms possession.
Tsurkov Case Pressures Iraq During International Scrutiny
The disappearance of Elizabeth Tsurkov in March 2023 has sparked international pressure on Iraq to resolve the case. Israel accuses Hezbollah-affiliated groups of her abduction, urging action. Western envoys demand her release, testing Iraq’s commitment to global cooperation. Observers see this as an opportunity for Iraq to assert authority over armed factions, align with international standards, and enhance regional stability. Failure to act may jeopardize international support and Iraq’s standing in the global community.
Iraq Surpasses Saudi Arabia in Oil Exports to U.S. Second Week
Iraq has exceeded Saudi Arabia in crude oil exports to the United States for the second consecutive week, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). The EIA reported that U.S. crude imports from 10 key exporters averaged 6.016 million barrels per day last week, reflecting an increase of 251,000 barrels per day compared to the previous week’s total of 5.765 million barrels daily. This marks a notable shift in U.S. crude sourcing, underscoring Iraq’s growing role as a leading oil supplier.
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★ YEMEN
Israel Targets Houthi Positions in Joint Military Operation
The Israeli military announced airstrikes on Houthi targets in Sana’a, Saada, and the ports of Hodeidah and Ras Isa, focusing on military infrastructure. The operations included simultaneous U.S. strikes aimed at disrupting Houthi capabilities. Israel’s Defense Minister vowed to continue the campaign, pledging to pursue Houthi leaders and emphasizing the need to bolster regional security and deter threats.
Pentagon Denies Houthi Claims of Targeting U.S. Ships in the Red Sea
The Houthi group announced targeting a U.S. aircraft carrier and warships in the northern Red Sea using missiles and drones, claiming it was a response to “Israeli, American, and British aggression.” However, Pentagon Deputy Spokesperson Sabrina Singh denied these claims, describing them as “misleading.” She affirmed that U.S. ships had not been subjected to any recent attacks, according to statements made to Alhurra TV.
Houthis Storm Village in Central Yemen, Escalate Abuses Against Civilians
Houthi militias stormed Hanakat Al-Masoud village in Qayfa, northwest of Al-Bayda province, following days of a suffocating siege. Tribal sources confirmed to “Erem News” that Houthis seized 80% of the village, accompanied by widespread crimes against civilians. The violations included property destruction, home invasions, arson, and planting explosives. Residents were forcibly displaced, with no regard for women, children, or the elderly. The militia also carried out mass arrests and abductions, escalating to direct physical executions.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Arab, and EU Diplomats Meet in Saudi Arabia to Discuss Support for Syria
Diplomatic talks in Saudi Arabia on Sunday will occur in two sessions, a Saudi official told AFP. The first session will involve Arab officials, while the second will expand to include Türkiye, France, the European Union, and the United Nations. The meeting follows Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, seizing control of Damascus and ousting longtime ruler Assad last month. Al-Sharaa is now advocating for sanctions relief to stabilize the country.
Gulf-Jordanian Talks Held on Sidelines of Syria Meeting in Riyadh
The Saudi capital, Riyadh, hosted separate discussions on Sunday between Qatar, the UAE, and Bahrain’s foreign ministers and their Jordanian counterparts. These talks took place on the sidelines of the expanded ministerial meeting on Syria. During the meeting in Riyadh, Jordan’s Foreign Ministry announced via “X” that Minister Ayman Safadi held extensive discussions with Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister.
Kuwaiti Team to Travel to Damascus to Reopen Embassy
A diplomatic source revealed to Al-Qabas that a Kuwaiti team is set to depart for Damascus in the coming days to prepare and rehabilitate the country’s embassy in Syria. The source noted that the reopening of the embassy will proceed gradually. Last month, Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya, as president of the GCC ministerial council, visited Damascus with GCC Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi. During the visit, they met with Ahmed Al-Sharaa, head of Syria’s new administration.
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★ EGYPT &NORTH AFRICA
Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea Agree on Red Sea Security Responsibility
On Saturday, Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea emphasized the need for the security of the Red Sea to remain the responsibility of the countries bordering it. This statement came during a tripartite meeting of the foreign ministers of the three countries in Cairo, where they discussed regional stability, the situation in Sudan and Somalia, and the affairs of the Red Sea bordering nations. The ministers also agreed to establish a tripartite mechanism to meet regularly and discuss ways to enhance their relations and address common issues.
Egypt Stresses Syria’s Unity and Rejects Harboring Terrorists
On Sunday, the Egyptian government highlighted the importance of “not harboring terrorist elements” within Syria and called for global efforts to prevent Syria from becoming “a source of regional instability or a hub for terrorist groups.”
These remarks were made by Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Ati during his speech at the expanded Arab ministerial meeting on Syria, held in Riyadh. He also reaffirmed Egypt’s position on the need to maintain Syria’s territorial integrity and respect its sovereignty, while suppo
Intelligence Reports: Russia Transfers Military Equipment from Syria to Libya
Intelligence reports revealed that the Russian military is currently transferring its military equipment from Syria to Libya following recent developments in Syria. The Ukrainian military intelligence service reported on Sunday that these transfers are being conducted via air, as Russia faces difficulties in evacuating its forces by sea.
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