★ SYRIA
UN Rights Chief Volker Turk Visits Syria for First Time
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, arrived in Damascus on Tuesday, marking the first-ever visit by a UN rights chief to Syria. The Austrian lawyer will visit Syria and Lebanon from January 14-16, engaging with officials, civil society groups, diplomats, and UN agencies. His visit underscores the global body’s commitment to addressing human rights challenges in the region.
Landmines Claim 80 Civilian Lives in Post-War Syria
Since Bashar Al-Assad’s fall on December 8, landmines and explosives have killed 80 civilians in Syria, including a dozen children and a returning family, according to The Halo Trust. The charity highlighted the severe danger posed by millions of mines and abandoned munitions to civilians resettling in former conflict zones. This growing threat underscores the urgent need for large-scale mine clearance efforts as displaced families return to their homes.
Hostage Aid Confirms Austin Tice Held by Assad Loyalists
Hostage Aid Worldwide confirms journalist Austin Tice remains detained in Syria by Assad loyalists since 2012. Tice briefly escaped in 2013 but was re-captured. Limited cooperation from factions hampers progress, yet reports suggest advances in negotiations. With no U.S. representation in Syria, Tice’s family relies on President Trump’s administration to secure his release through potential Russian-mediated agreements.
Germany to Support War Crimes Investigations in Syria with One Million Euros
Germany will provide one million euros to support the United Nations’ IIIM for investigating war crimes committed under the ousted Assad regime.The funding will help document human rights violations since 2016, aiding judicial action. Germany has been a consistent supporter of the IIIM’s efforts to promote reconciliation and accountability in Syria, ensuring evidence is prepared for legal proceedings.This financial support aims to strengthen Syria’s path toward justice and recovery.
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★ ISRAEL
Israeli Economy Faces Crisis With Inflated Fiscal Deficit Reports
Israel’s official 2024 fiscal deficit stands at 6.9% of GDP ($36.1 billion), but analyses reveal it actually reaches 7.2% ($37.7 billion). Structural economic flaws, rising costs of living, and unchecked public spending severely impact Israeli households. War expenditures and pre-tax consumer activities temporarily mask underlying weaknesses. The 2025 budget anticipates deficit reduction but lacks essential reforms, raising doubts about long-term economic recovery and sustainability in Israel.
Katz Introduces Haredi Draft Law Delaying Service Until 2032
Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, introduced a draft law to gradually increase ultra-Orthodox military enlistment, targeting 50% by 2032. The plan starts with 4,800 recruits in the first year, with annual increases. Sanctions will apply to yeshivas failing to meet recruitment goals. Despite opposition from ultra-Orthodox parties and protests against the bill, Katz emphasized the importance of integrating the community into security and the economy with their consent. This law aims to address military manpower shortages and improve national security.
After Striking Houthis, Israeli Pilots Say Air Force ‘Is Ready to Attack Iran Now’
Following an airstrike on Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, Israeli Air Force commanders stated they are prepared to strike Iran directly. Israeli pilots emphasized their readiness for any orders, even targeting Iran, as part of Israel’s broader strategy against Iran’s regional influence. Israel has previously conducted strikes on Iranian air defenses and missile sites in retaliation for attacks on Israeli territory. Tensions are escalating with potential future actions, including strikes on Iran’s nuclear program.
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★ LEBANON
International Court of Justice: Nawaf Salam Resigns from Court Membership
Nawaf Salam resigned from his position at the International Court of Justice after being appointed Lebanon’s Prime Minister. His term as president of the court was set to end in February 2027. Salam is currently leading non-binding parliamentary consultations to form a new Lebanese government on January 15-16, 2025. He emphasized his commitment to national unity, strengthening state authority, and addressing Lebanon’s economic challenges, following a parliamentary vote that supported his nomination.
Israeli Army Demolishes Buildings in Southern Lebanon, Intensifies Violations
Israeli forces demolished homes in Mays al-Jabal and Kfarkela towns in southern Lebanon and intensified ceasefire violations. These violations included incursions, explosions, drone strikes, and house raids in Beirut, Bent Jbeil, and Marjayoun. Troops also moved into Aytaroun, cutting roads and fortifying positions. Since November 27, 2024, a fragile ceasefire has ended clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, which began on October 8, 2023, escalating into a broader conflict.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Gaza Deal: Netanyahu Continues Consultations, Hamas Requests Hours to Respond
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu continues consultations on the Gaza ceasefire deal, while Hamas requests more hours to respond. The Israeli military plans a gradual withdrawal from Gaza, including areas like Netzarim and Rafah. Negotiations in Doha have made significant progress, with both Israel and Hamas nearing an agreement on a phased ceasefire and prisoner exchanges.The deal aims to end the conflict, release hostages, and restore security, while addressing humanitarian concerns in Gaza.
Ben Gvir Threatens to Resign Over Gaza Agreement
Itamar Ben Gvir, Israel’s National Security Minister, threatened to resign from Netanyahu’s government if a ceasefire deal in Gaza is approved. He called the deal a dangerous surrender to Hamas and urged Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to oppose it. Despite Ben Gvir’s objections, Smotrich did not threaten to leave the coalition. The deal, supported by most ministers, involves a phased ceasefire and prisoner releases, with negotiations mediated by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar.
Israeli Media: Entire “Nahal” Brigade Team Killed in Northern Gaza
Israeli media reported that an entire “Nahal” Brigade team was killed in Beit Hanoun, northern Gaza, during ongoing battles. The Israeli military confirmed five soldiers’ deaths and eight others’ serious injuries. Prime Minister Netanyahu mourned the soldiers, while the resistance claimed successful operations against Israeli forces. Among the deceased was Captain Yair Yaacov Shushan, leading the “Nahal” Brigade group. The soldiers were part of the “Team Z1,” trained just two months before the October 7, 2023 attack.
6 Killed as IDF Strikes Jenin Amid PA Terror Crackdown
Israel conducted its first drone strike in Jenin on Tuesday, targeting the Jenin refugee camp amid the Palestinian Authority’s counterterrorism efforts. The Palestinian Authority health ministry reported at least six deaths, including one teenager. This strike risks undermining the PA’s campaign to restore security, as various armed groups have taken control of the camp. Since the counterterrorism mission began, 13 people, including six Palestinian security officers, have been killed, deepening divisions within the West Bank.
Israel Commits 4 New Massacres in Gaza Amid Disaster Warning
Since October 7, 2023, Gaza has seen 46,645 martyrs and over 110,000 injuries. Israel’s military continues its devastating campaign, committing four new massacres, killing 61 people and injuring 281 in 24 hours. The ongoing violence has halted essential services like water and sewage due to fuel shortages, putting over 1.1 million people in Khan Younis at severe risk. This has led to a growing environmental disaster, worsening the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkey Targets $10 Billion Trade Goal With Syria
Turkey plans to boost trade with Syria to $10 billion, rising from $2.5 billion in 2024. Leveraging its industrial and logistical advantages, Turkey aims to play a pivotal role in Syria’s reconstruction under the new government. Bilateral partnerships emphasize infrastructure redevelopment and trade expansion, reflecting a major recovery from pre-conflict trade levels and strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
Turkey Launches Advanced Istanbul-Class Frigates With Domestic Technology
Turkey launched two Istanbul-class frigates with 80% locally developed equipment, highlighting its advanced shipbuilding capabilities. The first frigate, developed in 2017, joined the Turkish Navy in 2024. Contracts for three more were signed in 2023, with ongoing construction at Turkish shipyards. These upgraded Ada-class frigates, measuring 113.2 meters and reaching speeds of 29 knots, are equipped with HISAR missiles, ATMACA missiles, torpedoes, and advanced naval guns, showcasing Turkey’s self-reliance and global competitiveness in maritime defense.
Islamic Financing of $174 Million to Support Turkish Businesses
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) provided $174 million in financing to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Turkey. In partnership with the Turkish Export-Import Bank, the funding aims to drive economic growth, job creation, and development in sectors such as textiles, manufacturing, and transportation. The initiative also aims to boost Turkish exports. This financing demonstrates ITFC’s commitment to fostering social and economic development and enhancing trade finance systems in its member countries.
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★ IRAN
Iran Ready for “Equitable Negotiations” with Washington, Says President
Iranian President Masoud Bezhashkian stated that his country is committed to peace and de-escalation both regionally and globally, sending a peaceful message likely aimed at the incoming U.S. administration under President-elect Donald Trump. In an interview with NBC News from Tehran, Bezhashkian expressed that Iran is “ready for equitable negotiations with Washington.” He consistently called for regional and global peace, stating last month during a visit to North Khorasan province, “We desire friendly relations with countries in the region and the world, and we are working hard to establish peace and security both inside and outside the country.”
Azerbaijan Foils Iranian Plot to Assassinate Prominent Jewish Community Figure
Azerbaijani intelligence agencies thwarted a terrorist attack targeting a prominent member of the local Jewish community. Sources within the Jewish community confirm that the intended victim is a highly respected figure in Azerbaijan and internationally, particularly in Israel, for his significant efforts in strengthening relations between the two countries. Two suspects, Georgian national Akil Aslanov and Azerbaijani national Siyahon Ismailov, were arrested near a Jewish center. Local media reports indicate that the foiled attack was part of an Iranian plot.
Iranian Navy Receives New Destroyer and Opens Strategic Base in Oman Gulf
The Iranian Navy is significantly enhancing its naval capabilities with the introduction of the Zagros destroyer and the inauguration of a new military base in Jask. The destroyer, designed and built using the latest maritime technology, is expected to become a cornerstone of Iran’s naval operations. Iranian Navy Commander Admiral Shahram Irani announced the addition of the Zagros destroyer to the fleet, highlighting its unique features developed with Iranian expertise. He emphasized that “this ship, created with local knowledge and capabilities, is ready to operate in the region, showcasing our naval power.”
Non-Oil Trade Between Iran and Russia Reaches $1.9 Billion in Nine Months
Non-oil trade between Iran and Russia reached 3.447 million tons of goods valued at $1.902 billion in the first nine months of the current Iranian year (beginning March 21, 2023), according to customs data. From the beginning of this year until the end of December, Iran exported 1.056 million tons of non-oil goods to Russia, worth $803 million, marking a 14% increase compared to the same period last year. Customs data also revealed that Iran imported 1.491 million tons of goods valued at $1.099 billion from Russia during this period.
Petrochemical Exports Reach $10 Billion in Nine Months
A senior official revealed that Iran’s petrochemical industry achieved exports worth $10 billion during the first nine months of the Iranian year 1403 (March-December 2024), with projections indicating that the figure could reach $13 billion by year-end. Hassan Abbas Zadeh, head of the National Petrochemical Company, disclosed these figures during a meeting with Ministry of Oil officials, including First Vice President Mohammad Reza Arif, as reported by Shana News Agency. Abbas Zadeh highlighted the significant role this sector plays in the economy, noting the existence of 70 production complexes and three public service complexes.
Chinese Refineries Rush to Secure Oil Before Potential Sanctions on Iran and Russia
Bloomberg reported on Tuesday that Chinese state-owned oil companies and major private refineries are urgently securing crude oil supplies as stricter sanctions on Iran and Russia threaten to disrupt oil flows in the near future. According to traders cited by Bloomberg, companies like Sinopec, Shandong Yulong Petrochemicals, and Jiangsu Eastern Shenghong are urgently seeking crude, focusing on various grades from the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas. Shipments for February are seeing increased demand as refineries prepare for potential disruptions in supply.
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★ IRAQ
Iraq Launches Joint Security Operation Along Syria Border
Iraqi joint forces, supervised by the Nineveh Operations Command of the Popular Mobilization Forces, initiated a security operation along the Iraq-Syria border on Tuesday. The operation aims to bolster security and stability in the border region and address ongoing security and military vulnerabilities. This effort reflects Iraq’s commitment to safeguarding its borders and mitigating cross-border threats.
Iraq Assumes Presidency of Group of 77 and China
Iraq assumed the presidency of the Group of 77 and China,a bloc focused on enhancing developing nations’ economic interests. Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein emphasized Iraq’s responsibility to achieve common goals, including sustainable development, poverty reduction, improved education, healthcare, and international cooperation. Iraq also aims to support global climate change initiatives and secure financial assistance for developing nations. The Group, initially comprising 77 members, now includes over 130 countries, working towards a fairer global economic system.
Iraq and Britain Agree on $15 Billion Trade Package
Iraq and the UK signed a £12.3 billion ($15 billion) trade agreement to enhance economic and strategic cooperation. The deal includes export guarantees and covers sectors like infrastructure, energy, defense, and finance. Key projects involve demining operations, rehabilitation of Iraq’s airbases, and water infrastructure improvements, such as the Basra water desalination project. The agreement aims to strengthen bilateral relations, boost trade, and support Iraq’s development, improving living conditions and essential services for its population.
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★ YEMEN
Houthi Claims Attacks on Tel Aviv Targets and Eilat Power Plant
The Houthi group announced on Tuesday that it attacked Tel Aviv and Eilat, Israel. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree confirmed the use of drones to strike unspecified targets in Tel Aviv and a cruise missile targeting Israel’s Eilat power station. Both operations were deemed successful. Saree vowed further military actions in support of Palestinian resistance and called for an end to Israeli aggression on Gaza and the lifting of its blockade.
Yemeni Army Downs Houthi Drone in Taiz Defense Front
The Yemeni army downed a Houthi reconnaissance drone in Taiz province while it was flying over military positions. This incident occurred on the northern-western frontline of Taiz city. Houthi militias frequently target civilian areas with drones, artillery, and heavy weapons, resulting in civilian casualties, particularly among women and children. These attacks continue to escalate the humanitarian crisis in Yemen’s conflict zones.
Grunberg Requests Iran’s Mediation for Release of UN Staff Held by Houthis
UN Special Envoy Hans Grunberg urged Iran to support efforts to secure the release of UN, international, and local staff held by Houthis since June 2024. During his visit to Iran, he discussed restarting Yemen’s peace process and emphasized the need for regional and international support. Grunberg condemned the detentions, stating they obstruct humanitarian aid and violate international law. He called for immediate action to address the escalating tensions and work toward a peaceful resolution in Yemen.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Bin Salman Discusses Strengthening Saudi-Brazil Relations with President Lula
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Brazilian President Lula discussed enhancing bilateral relations, focusing on trade, energy, and investment. The talks followed a recent conversation between Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Brazilian Minister Mauro Vieira. The Saudi-Brazilian relationship has strengthened with agreements such as the creation of a Coordination Council in November 2023. The countries’ commercial exchange continues to grow, with Saudi exports to Brazil totaling $4.5 billion, including $1.14 billion in non-oil exports.
UAE Signs Economic Partnership Deals With Malaysia, New Zealand, Kenya
The UAE signed CEPAs with Malaysia, New Zealand, and Kenya, focusing on tariff reductions, trade facilitation, and private sector collaboration. The Malaysia agreement targets key growth sectors, while New Zealand’s deal, its first with a Middle Eastern nation, ensures mutual tariff exemptions. Kenya’s CEPA emphasizes agriculture, healthcare, and technology, promoting sustainable development. These agreements align with the UAE’s 2031 trade strategy to achieve 4 trillion dirhams in non-oil foreign trade revenue.
Italy and Saudi Arabia Sign Energy Cooperation Agreement
Italy and Saudi Arabia signed a five-year energy cooperation agreement, focusing on hydrogen supply from Saudi Arabia to Europe. The agreement, signed in Riyadh by Italian Energy Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, covers renewable energy, methane emissions reduction, power interconnection, and low-emission hydrogen and ammonia. It also includes carbon capture and storage, positioning Italy as a strategic hub for hydrogen and ammonia in Europe.
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★ EGYPT
Sisi and Biden Discuss Mediation Efforts for Gaza Ceasefire
During a phone call on Tuesday, the Egyptian presidency stated that President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi discussed with U.S. President Joe Biden the ongoing mediation efforts led by Cairo, Doha, and Washington to reach a ceasefire agreement in Gaza and secure the release of hostages. According to Reuters, the statement emphasized the importance of all parties involved overcoming obstacles and showing the necessary flexibility to reach an agreement. President Sisi also stressed the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire to end the severe humanitarian suffering of the people in Gaza and to allow the unrestricted delivery of humanitarian aid.
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