★ SYRIA
Syria Permits Oil Imports to Alleviate Fuel Shortages
Syria announced it will permit oil imports from international and commercial entities to address critical fuel shortages in its domestic market. Oil Minister Ghiath Diab confirmed the decision during an interview with Syrian state television on Monday. This measure comes in response to severe deficits in oil derivatives, with daily imports from neighboring Lebanon insufficient to meet demand. The initiative aims to stabilize the supply of essential fuel resources to the local market amidst ongoing challenges.
Syrian Defense Ministry Restructures, Gains Armed Faction Support
Syria’s Defense Ministry announced agreements with armed factions, including northern and Sweida groups, for integration into a unified, non-sectarian, volunteer-based army. Proposals for regional autonomy from Daraa factions were rejected to maintain national unity.
Canadian Delegation Visits Syrian Border, Announces Humanitarian Aid
International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen and MP Omar Alghabra visited the Turkey-Syria border, marking Canada’s first delegation since the Assad regime’s fall. Hussein pledged $17.25 million for humanitarian aid, including clean water, food, protection, sanitation, and health services. The officials later visited Qatar to discuss its role in supporting Syrians with the Qatari minister of state for international cooperation.
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★ ISRAEL
Houthi Missile Strikes Spark Sirens, Disrupt Flights in Israel
A Houthi missile from Yemen triggered sirens across central Israel, forcing Ben Gurion Airport to suspend operations briefly. Intercepted by the IDF, shrapnel caused property damage near Jerusalem, with 11 injured seeking shelter. This marked the third Houthi attack in 12 hours, following a drone and another missile. The Houthis vowed continued strikes until Gaza fighting ends and the blockade is lifted, claiming their hypersonic missile targeted Tel Aviv’s Defense Ministry. Flights diverted, and we are awaiting clearance to resume landing.
Knesset Approves Insufficient Aid for October 7 Massacre Victims
The Knesset allocated 1 billion shekels for October 7 massacre victims, offering limited compensation and rehabilitation refunds. Legal gaps exclude some survivors, family members, and indirect witnesses, leaving them with little or no aid. Critics argue the funds fail to address medical and emotional needs. Advocates demand equitable support, citing moral and national responsibilities. Residents of affected areas, like Ofakim, receive inadequate aid, intensifying calls for comprehensive government recognition and fair compensation for all impacted.
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★ LEBANON
Nawaf Salam Appointed to Form Lebanon’s Government Facing Challenges
Lebanon’s presidency appointed Nawaf Salam to form a government with support from 85 MPs, surpassing Najib Mikati’s nine votes. Thirty-four MPs, including Hezbollah’s bloc, abstained. The government faces significant challenges, including post-war reconstruction, implementing UN Resolution 1701, disarming non-state groups, and addressing political divisions. Urgent economic reforms are critical to revive Lebanon’s economy after over five years of financial collapse and ensure stability in the war-affected regions of the country.
U.S. Military Delegation Meets Aoun After Israeli Strikes on Lebanon
A U.S. military delegation, led by General Michael Kurilla, met President Joseph Aoun following Israeli airstrikes on Jenta and Nabatieh. Israel targeted Hezbollah’s military infrastructure and arms-smuggling routes near the Syrian-Lebanese border. The strikes come ahead of Israel’s January 26 withdrawal from southern Lebanon under a ceasefire agreement requiring Hezbollah to retreat north of the Litani River. Despite the agreement, Israeli ceasefire violations persist, raising tensions after months of conflict that caused extensive destruction in Lebanon.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Hamas Requests Sinwar’s Body in Prisoner Exchange Talks
Hamas requested Yahya Sinwar’s body in a prisoner exchange with Israel, which is considering exiling his brother and detainees for five years. An agreement reportedly includes improving prisoner conditions. Hamas announced progress in ceasefire efforts following talks with Qatar’s Emir, supported by diplomatic mediation from Doha and Washington. The White House confirmed significant advancements in prisoner negotiations and emphasized improving Gaza’s humanitarian conditions while addressing broader regional stability concerns.
Trump Pushes for Gaza Ceasefire Agreement Before Inauguration
President-elect Donald Trump announced a potential Gaza ceasefire and detainee exchange agreement could be finalized by week’s end. Ambassador-designate Steve Witkoff, working with Brett McGurk, ensures the deal’s success. The agreement includes a ceasefire, detainee releases, and plans for Gaza’s reconstruction and governance. Trump warned Hamas of unprecedented consequences if no deal is reached before his January 20 inauguration. The U.S. will play a key role in guaranteeing the agreement’s implementation and long-term stability.
Heavy Losses for Israeli Forces in Beit Hanoun and Rafah
Palestinian resistance conducted two significant operations in Beit Hanoun and Rafah, causing heavy Israeli losses. Al-Qassam Brigades attacked an Israeli force of 25 soldiers in Rafah, killing and injuring all members, and destroyed two armored vehicles with landmines. Clashes and fires persist as resistance operations intensify. Over 10 Israeli soldiers were killed in northern Gaza within 72 hours, with 55 soldiers killed since October 5. Israel has reported 840 military deaths since the war began, including 405 in ground battles.
50 Dead in Israeli Strikes as Gaza Faces Escalating Crisis
Israeli airstrikes killed 50 Palestinians on Monday, targeting Gaza neighborhoods like Shujaiya and Sheikh Radwan. Hospitals, overwhelmed by injured civilians, face severe shortages of medical supplies. Strikes in Rafah, Khan Younis, and refugee camps left 19 dead and 71 injured in 24 hours. Since October 2023, Israeli attacks have killed 46,584 Palestinians, injured 109,000, and caused massive destruction, marking Gaza’s humanitarian crisis as one of the worst in modern history.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkey, Hamas Discuss Gaza Ceasefire and Prisoner Exchange Progress
Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalın and Hamas leaders discussed advancing Gaza ceasefire negotiations and a prisoner exchange deal. Talks hosted in Qatar have reached 90% progress, proposing the release of 10,300 Palestinian prisoners for 99 Israeli hostages. Despite significant mediation by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S., Israeli resistance delays finalization. The war since October 2023 has caused 156,000 Palestinian casualties and severe humanitarian crises, intensifying efforts for resolution.
FM Fidan Advances Regional Ties with Slovenian and Norwegian Counterparts
FM Hakan Fidan met Slovenia’s Deputy PM Tanja Fajon in Ankara and discussed Syria and Gaza ceasefire efforts with Norwegian FM Espen Barth Eide. Fajon also inaugurated an exhibition and will meet Turkish ministers to enhance economic ties. Türkiye-Slovenia relations, established after Slovenia’s 1991 independence, were strengthened by a 2011 strategic partnership, fostering regional stability and cooperation. Discussions emphasized diplomacy, peace initiatives, and expanding collaboration across various sectors.
Key Perpetrator of 2013 Reyhanlı Bombings Captured by Turkish Intelligence
The National Intelligence Organization (MİT) captured Muhammed Dib Koralı, one of the planners behind the 2013 Reyhanlı bombings that killed 53 and injured over 140 near Türkiye’s Syrian border. Koralı, who provided the explosives, was handed over to Hatay police. Earlier arrests include Yusuf Nazik, who confessed to organizing the attack with Syrian intelligence, and Mehmet Gezer, who was extradited from the U.S. in 2022. The bombings remain one of Türkiye’s deadliest, with Syria denying any involvement.
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★ IRAN
Iranian Army Receives 1,000 Drones During Rising Tensions
On Monday, the Iranian army received 1,000 new drones, according to the semi-official news agency Tasnim. The delivery comes as the country prepares for potential confrontations with both Israel and the United States under the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump. The drones, reportedly delivered at various locations across Iran, are said to feature high stealth capabilities and the ability to penetrate fortified positions, strengthening Iran’s military readiness in the face of growing geopolitical tensions.
Iran Unveils New Laser-Powered Air Defense System
The Iranian military unveiled a new laser-based air defense system called “Seraj” during recent military drills in the western and northern regions of the country. The announcement was made on Sunday, with the system being showcased near the Fordo uranium enrichment facility. According to the Iranian Army, the system is equipped with advanced laser technology, earning praise for its capabilities. Observers described the system as “terrifying,” with Western countries expressing surprise at its advanced features. This move underscores Iran’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities amidst rising tensions.
Iran Holds Secret Talks with Russia to Strengthen Nuclear Ambitions
Iran is quietly deepening its ties with Russia to boost its military and nuclear capabilities, a move that has raised significant concerns among Western nations. Amid planned discussions with European diplomats in Geneva to revive the nuclear deal, Tehran’s covert diplomatic missions to Moscow suggest a parallel strategy. Ali Larijani, a close ally of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and an experienced negotiator, has played a pivotal role in these behind-the-scenes negotiations.
Iran-European Talks on Tehran’s Nuclear Program Begin in Switzerland
Switzerland is hosting talks on Iran’s nuclear program between Tehran and France, Germany, and the UK, just a week before Donald Trump’s return to the White House. These discussions follow closely on the heels of secret negotiations between Iran and representatives from the three European countries in Geneva, during growing concerns in the West about the progress of Iran’s nuclear program. The German Foreign Ministry clarified to AFP that “these are not negotiations,” while Iran stated that the meetings are simply “consultations.”
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★ IRAQ
Iraq Urges Iran to Honor Gas Supply Agreement
Iraqi Electricity Minister Ziyad Ali Fadel called on Iranian Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi to adhere to the gas supply agreement supporting Iraq’s power plants. During their meeting in Baghdad, they discussed enhancing energy sector cooperation, including improving electricity transmission line efficiency between the two nations. The talks follow a recent visit to Iran by a delegation led by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani.
Iraqi PM Visits UK to Strengthen Ties and Sign Agreements
Iraqi PM Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani visited the UK to sign a strategic partnership and security agreement, enhancing military cooperation ahead of the 2026 US-led coalition withdrawal. Al-Sudani highlighted the partnership as a new chapter in bilateral relations. The visit includes meetings with King Charles III and PM Keir Starmer, alongside agreements with British companies focused on economic, investment, and security collaboration, aiming to bolster UK-Iraq relations across various strategic sectors.
Iraq Receives Over 190 ISIS-Linked Families from Syria
Iraqi authorities have received 191 families, totaling 710 individuals, mostly women and children, at Al-Jada Camp in Nineveh after their transfer from Syria’s Al-Hol Camp. The relocation, conducted under strict security with the SDF and international coalition, aims to rehabilitate these families for reintegration into Iraqi society after ensuring they no longer adhere to extremist ideologies. Thousands have already been reintegrated with international and UN support, with more transfers from Al-Hol Camp planned in the coming days.
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★ YEMEN
Houthis Escalate Attacks on Israel with Hypersonic Missiles and Drones
Yemen’s Ansarallah movement (Houthis) claimed launching a Palestine 2 hypersonic missile and four drones targeting Israel’s Defense Ministry and critical sites in Tel Aviv, asserting successful strikes. Israeli air defenses intercepted two missiles and a drone from Yemen, reporting no injuries. The Houthis stated their actions aimed to pressure Israel over Gaza, while earlier attacks disrupted Ben Gurion Airport operations and Red Sea shipping. Since November 2023, Ansarallah has intensified operations, aligning with Palestinians during the Gaza conflict.
Houthis Escalate Attacks on US Forces During Regional Tensions
The Houthis claimed five missile attacks on the USS Harry S. Truman within a month, marking a strategic shift against US forces. Their operations, tied to solidarity with Gaza, also targeted American and Israeli vessels in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. In response, US-UK forces launched airstrikes on Houthi sites. The Houthis vowed to expand attacks on Western ships, intensifying regional tensions and highlighting the escalating conflict’s geopolitical and military implications.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Qatar’s Emir and Biden Advance Gaza Mediation During Prisoner Swap Talks
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim and U.S. President Joe Biden discussed efforts to end Gaza’s war and secure a prisoner swap. Qatar hosts indirect Israel-Hamas negotiations, with reports indicating 90% completion of a deal involving 10,300 Palestinians and 99 Israelis. Since October 2023, Israeli attacks have caused 156,000 Palestinian casualties and widespread destruction. The leaders emphasized joint mediation and regional stability as progress builds toward finalizing The agreement during one of Gaza’s worst humanitarian crises.
Qatar’s Prime Minister Discusses Gaza and Ceasefire with Guterres
Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, held a phone conversation on Monday with UN Secretary-General António Guterres to discuss the situation in Gaza and ceasefire negotiations. The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the talks addressed developments in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories, as well as the latest updates on ceasefire negotiations. The discussion also focused on facilitating the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Sheikh Mohammed reaffirmed Qatar’s full support for regional and international efforts aimed at achieving security, peace, and stability in the region.
Saudi Arabia Announces Plans to Enrich and Sell Uranium
Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman announced plans to enrich uranium, produce yellowcake, and sell it. Speaking at the “iktva 2025” Forum, he revealed that Saudi Arabia’s mountains are rich in rare minerals, including uranium, and stated the kingdom will monetize these resources. Yellowcake, a concentrated form of uranium, is produced by refining uranium ore into a powdered state.
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★ EGYPT &North Africa
Egypt and Turkey Agree on Advancing a Comprehensive Political Process in Syria
Egypt emphasized the necessity of preventing the harboring of “terrorist elements” in Syrian territory following the formation of the new Syrian administration. During a meeting in Riyadh, on the sidelines of the Riyadh meeting on Syria, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Ati affirmed to his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, the importance of ensuring that Syria does not become a source of regional instability.
Egypt’s Fuel Imports Rise by 26% to $15.5 Billion in 2024
Egypt’s fuel imports surged by 26% in 2024, reaching approximately $15.5 billion, up from $12.3 billion in 2023. According to a government official, these imports included crude oil, petroleum products, and natural gas, which were crucial for meeting the country’s energy needs, especially for power stations and industrial projects. The fuel imports cover the gap between domestic production and consumption, representing about 20-25% of the market’s total consumption.
Egypt Receives $21 Billion in Investments from Arab Countries in Three Months
Egypt received $20.9 billion in direct foreign investments from Arab countries in the last quarter of the previous fiscal year, according to recent data from the Central Bank of Egypt. The total investments from Arab countries in the past fiscal year reached $39.448 billion, a significant increase from $4.3 billion in the previous year. Notably, UAE investments in the construction sector accounted for 95.3% of these inflows, totaling $37.5 billion, compared to $1.7 billion in the 2023-2022 fiscal year.
Libya’s Oil Revenues Drop to $15.5 Billion in 2024
Libya’s oil revenues decreased by nearly 23%, reaching 76.7 billion dinars($15.50 billion) in 2024, down from 99.1 billion dinars in 2023, according to the Central Bank of Libya. Despite this decline, Libya saw an increase in crude oil production in 2024, with the National Oil Corporation reporting daily production rates of 1.417 million barrels.
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