★ SYRIA
Mother of Missing Journalist Austin Tice Seeks Support in Syria
Debra Tice visited Syria after a decade to seek help finding her son Austin, missing since 2012 near Damascus. She expressed hope in the Trump administration’s support and cited claims Austin is alive. Tice met the Syrian leader, visited notorious intelligence prisons, and vowed to continue searching. Austin’s last sighting was in a 2012 video showing him blindfolded by armed men, and his mother remains determined to bring him home.
Clashes in Northeast Syria Escalate During Disarmament Push
Fighting between the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) persists in northeast Syria, as Damascus intensifies efforts to disarm U.S.-backed Kurdish forces. The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported eight SNA fighters killed and eight SDF fighters wounded near the Tishreen Dam on January 20. Since December, clashes between the groups have resulted in 440 fatalities. These confrontations unfold alongside complex negotiations over the strategic region’s control and the shape of Syria’s future state.
Syria Issues Tenders To Revive Oil Sector Despite Sanctions
Syria announced public tenders for oil imports, targeting efficiency and competition. Post-2011 production plummeted from 400,000 to 80,000 barrels daily. Western firms, including Gulf Sands and Shell, show renewed interest but await eased sanctions and political clarity. Gulf Sands’ CEO advocates lifting restrictions to boost revenues and support reconstruction. Once active, firms like Total and Suncor had major investments but paused due to sanctions. Companies anticipate returning if conditions stabilize, aiming to restore Syria’s oil industry to pre-crisis levels.
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★ ISRAEL
Trump Revokes Biden Sanctions, Restores ICC and Judea Policies
President Trump rescinded Biden-era sanctions on Jews in Judea and Samaria and reinstated Executive Order 13928 opposing ICC jurisdiction over U.S. and allies. The move restores sanctions on ICC officials targeting Americans and Israelis, strengthening U.S.-Israel relations. Advocacy groups, including AIPAC, praised the decision and urged Congress to make the sanctions permanent, ensuring protections for democratic allies. These actions demonstrate Trump’s commitment to reversing controversial Biden policies and safeguarding U.S. sovereignty and ally interests.
Israeli Finance Minister Threatens Coalition Over Gaza Ceasefire
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich warned of toppling Netanyahu’s government if the Gaza war isn’t resumed after the ceasefire. Smotrich claimed Netanyahu assured him the war would continue to meet its objectives, including prisoner exchanges. His potential withdrawal could collapse the coalition and trigger early elections. The ceasefire, opposed by Smotrich and former minister Ben Gvir, faces political tension as Netanyahu balances coalition demands with international expectations for stability and further negotiations.
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★ LEBANON
Hezbollah Warns Israel of Escalation Over South Lebanon Occupation
Hezbollah warned of a new confrontation if Israeli forces fail to withdraw from occupied Lebanese villages by the 60-day deadline. Israeli forces continue destroying infrastructure in southern Lebanon, including homes and farmland, heightening tensions. The Lebanese Army has bolstered its presence south of the Litani River, preparing for potential escalation. Hezbollah called on international actors to enforce Israeli compliance, emphasizing that violations threaten peace, stability, and reconstruction in Lebanon, unifying resistance efforts against continued occupation.
Lebanese Soldier Injured in Cross-Border Clash with Gunmen
A Lebanese army soldier was injured during clashes with unidentified gunmen along the Lebanese-Syrian border in the Qasr-Hermel area. According to the army’s statement on X, the incident occurred while a patrol conducted a security operation. The gunmen, firing from the Syrian side, engaged the patrol, prompting a response that led to an exchange of fire. The injured soldier was transported to a hospital for treatment, while the situation remains under investigation.
Lebanese Army Deploys in Bint Jbeil After Israeli Withdrawal
The Lebanese Army deployed in Bint Jbeil following Israeli withdrawal under a ceasefire agreement, coordinating operations with UNIFIL. Checkpoints were established in nearby towns, and residents were warned not to return due to unexploded ordnance. Meanwhile, Israeli forces continued demolitions in southern towns like Maroun al-Ras and Houla, despite the ceasefire. The agreement, effective November 27, requires full Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon within 60 days, marking a significant step toward regional stabilization.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Hamas Confirms Hostage Exchange for January 25 as Ceasefire Progresses
Hamas confirmed the second hostage exchange for January 25, involving four Israeli hostages swapped for Palestinian prisoners, facilitated by the Red Cross. Israel plans next-phase negotiations on February 4, following international calls to extend the ceasefire. Simultaneously, thousands of Hamas police deployed across Gaza to maintain security, assist aid deliveries, and stabilize conditions. Despite internal Israeli government criticism, the ceasefire has allowed humanitarian aid to flow, while Israeli officials assert their aim to dismantle Hamas’ capabilities.
Israeli Soldier Killed, Four Injured in West Bank Bombing
A bombing in Tammun, northern West Bank, killed an Israeli soldier and injured four, including a battalion commander, during a military raid. The town, targeted by intensified Israeli operations, has seen 19 Palestinian deaths, 200 arrests, and infrastructure destruction since October 2023. Concurrently, escalations across the West Bank and Gaza have resulted in 848 Palestinian deaths, 6,700 injuries, and 14,300 arrests, reflecting the ongoing violence and deteriorating conditions in the occupied territories.
21 Palestinians Injured in Israeli Settler Attacks Across West Bank
Israeli settlers injured 21 Palestinians in attacks on Qalqilya villages, burning homes, vehicles, and shops. An Israeli officer accidentally shot two settlers during the violence. The military imposed barriers, restricting Palestinian movement. Hamas condemned the attacks, urging resistance escalation against government-backed settler aggression. In 2024, settlers committed 2,971 violations, Killing 10 Palestinians and destroying over 14,000 trees. During intensified violence, 860 Palestinians were killed, 6,700 injured, and 14,300 arrested across the West Bank and Gaza.
Massive Destruction in Gaza During Dire Reconstruction Challenges
Gaza faces devastation with 10,000 bodies under rubble, 170,000 buildings destroyed, and infrastructure damage costing $18.5 billion. Over 1.8 million people lack shelter, while 50% of farmland and 95% of livestock are destroyed, worsening hunger. Reconstruction could take decades and cost $80 billion, as removing 50 million tons of rubble may span 21 years. Essential services, including water and healthcare, are severely disrupted, heightening fears of epidemics and prolonged humanitarian crises in the war-torn region.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkey and EU Discuss Syria’s Transition and Gaza Ceasefire Progress
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and EU Commissioner Hajja Lahbib discussed lifting Syrian sanctions, rebuilding its economy, and ensuring safe refugee returns. Both emphasized the importance of a successful transitional phase in Syria. They also addressed the Gaza ceasefire, initiated Sunday, spanning 42 days and involving prisoner exchanges. The ceasefire follows devastating Israeli operations in Gaza, resulting in over 157,000 Palestinian casualties, as humanitarian aid and further negotiations proceed in subsequent phases.
Turkey and Slovakia Strengthen Ties with Strategic Partnership and Agreements
Turkey and Slovakia signed a strategic partnership declaration and three agreements in media, cultural collaboration (2025-2029), and military cooperation. The agreements, signed by President Erdogan and PM Fico in Ankara, enhance bilateral relations in communication, cultural exchange, and defense. The media agreement involves Turkey’s Presidential Communications Directorate and Slovakia’s Government Office, while the cultural agreement includes both countries’ culture ministries. These efforts reflect both nations’ commitment to strengthening political, cultural, and military cooperation.
Turkey Reopens Aleppo Consulate During Clashes in Eastern Syria
Turkey reopened its Aleppo consulate after 13 years as fierce clashes erupted in eastern Aleppo between Turkish-backed factions and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The fighting near Tishrin Dam resulted in significant casualties and equipment destruction. Meanwhile, the U.S. reinforced the SDF with advanced weapons and supplies to bolster its positions. Turkey anticipates potential U.S. policy shifts under a second Trump term, hoping for troop withdrawal and reduced American support for SDF.
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★ IRAN
Iran Balances Media Silence on Trump’s Inauguration with Diplomacy Efforts
Iranian state TV ignored Donald Trump’s inauguration, while Telegram, popular among Iranians, shared ceremony highlights, including posts from hardline agencies. This contrast underscores Iran’s controlled media versus digital platforms’ openness. Meanwhile, Tehran seeks Iraqi mediation for direct talks with the U.S., signaling diplomatic intentions under Trump’s presidency. Reports suggest an Iraqi figure received approval to facilitate dialogue, reflecting Iran’s readiness to engage diplomatically despite enduring tensions with Washington.
Trump’s Pressure on Iran Could Create $30 Billion Gap in Economy
Donald Trump’s renewed “maximum pressure” campaign on Iran could lead to a $30 billion gap in the Iranian economy. Over the past four years, Iran has managed to circumvent sanctions, partly due to the U.S.’s more lenient enforcement, allowing the country to increase its oil exports by around one million barrels per day, with most of the supplies going to China, according to Bloomberg data tracking tankers and estimates from commercial and governmental organizations. However, this situation could change rapidly.
Iran Exports $1.4 Billion in Non-Oil Goods to India in Nine Months
Iran’s Customs Administration announced that non-oil exports to India totaled $1.4 billion during the first nine months of the current Iranian year (March 20 – December 21, 2024). According to Farood Asgari, India became the seventh-largest destination for Iranian exports during this period. Additionally, Asgari mentioned that India was the fifth-largest source of Iranian imports, with goods valued at $1.1 billion being shipped to Iran during the same period. This indicates robust trade relations between the two nations, further strengthening their economic ties.
Iran’s Gas Exports to Turkey Reach Record High in 2024
Iran’s gas exports to Turkey hit a record high in September and October 2024. Data revealed that Iran sent 1.38 billion cubic meters of gas during this period, a substantial increase compared to the same months last year. Turkish energy data confirmed that Iran provided Turkey with 5.58 billion cubic meters of gas in early 2024, marking a 41% rise from the previous year. The figures from September 1 to October 31 alone show a dramatic tenfold increase in gas exports, highlighting Iran’s growing role in meeting Turkey’s energy needs and solidifying the trade relationship between the two nations.
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★ IRAQ
Iraqi Parliament Approves Intelligence Law, Prepares for Key Votes
Iraq’s parliament secretly passed the National Intelligence Agency Law, facing criticism for lack of transparency. Lawmakers are preparing to vote on contentious proposals, including amendments to the Personal Status Law, the General Amnesty Law, and adjustments to the 2023–2025 national budget. The Personal Status Law has sparked a significant backlash over provisions critics say harm women’s rights and impose restrictive religious interpretations. Civil society groups and political factions remain deeply divided as debates intensify over these legislative measures.
Iraq Discovers Largest Oil Reserve in Baghdad with 2 Billion Barrels
Iraq’s Midland Oil Company, in partnership with China’s “EBS,” discovered the largest oil reserve in East Baghdad, adding over 2 billion barrels to its reserves. In August, Iraq signed 13 contracts to boost oil production by 750,000 barrels daily. Initial tests from the discovery show a daily production of 5,000 barrels. China dominates Iraq’s oil exploration, with companies like “ZEB” securing contracts. Iraq is relying on China to achieve its goal of 7 million barrels per day by 2027.
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★ YEMEN
Houthi Leader Threatens Escalation and Reveals Blocked Support for Palestinians
Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi disclosed plans to send fighters to Gaza, blocked by geopolitical barriers and restricted access. He warned of retaliation if Israel breaches the ceasefire, reaffirming readiness for escalation. The Houthis launched over 40 missiles and 300 drones at Israel, with most intercepted by Israeli defenses. Following the Gaza ceasefire, the Houthis warned of resuming attacks on Israeli-linked ships and vessels from the U.S. or Britain if these nations strike Yemen. The group pledged continued resistance and solidarity with Palestinians.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Qatar, UK Leaders Strengthen Ties, Address Regional and Global Issues
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer discussed bilateral relations, regional developments, and Gaza mediation efforts. Starmer thanked Qatar for facilitating a ceasefire and prisoner exchange. In December 2024, both leaders explored enhancing cooperation in economy, defense, education, and investment. Their discussions also focused on addressing shared concerns over Gaza and fostering international stability, reinforcing Qatar-UK collaboration on critical regional and global challenges.
Qatar Launches Fuel Supply Corridor to Gaza Following Ceasefire
Doha, January 20 (QNA) – Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar has established a land corridor to deliver 12.5 million liters of fuel to Gaza over the first ten days of the ceasefire. This amounts to 1.25 million liters daily. Today, 25 fuel trucks funded by Qatar entered Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing, marking the start of the initiative.
Kuwait Discovers Major Oil and Gas Reserves in Al-Jalaya Field
Kuwait Oil Company announced discovering 800 million barrels of medium-density oil and 600 billion cubic feet of gas in Al-Jalaya maritime field. Spanning 74 square kilometers, the field boosts Kuwait’s hydrocarbon resources and reinforces its role as a top producer. This discovery, following the 2024 Al-Nokhatha field find, aligns with Kuwait’s exploration strategy. Plans include three-dimensional surveys over 6,000 square kilometers to enhance production capabilities and meet strategic goals under Kuwait’s 2040 vision.
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★ EGYPT
Egypt Settles $1 Billion in Outstanding Payments to Foreign Oil Companies
Egypt’s government paid $1 billion in outstanding dues to foreign oil companies in the first week of January, according to a government official familiar with the matter. The payment increases Egypt’s total settlement of arrears to $4.5 billion since June of last year. This move comes as Egypt seeks to boost its natural gas production, which has decreased to 4.6 billion cubic feet per day, which is insufficient to meet the country’s daily needs. Egypt has recently rejoined the ranks of LNG importers after five years of being a net exporter. The country is making efforts to settle these outstanding payments in order to support its energy sector and meet growing domestic demands.
EBRD Invested €1.5 Billion in Egypt’s Private Sector in 2024
The Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation has confirmed that Egypt ranked first in the South and East Mediterranean region as the largest recipient of investments from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in 2024. This marks the seventh consecutive year Egypt has held this position. The country also ranked third globally among EBRD member countries, reflecting the pivotal role of economic diplomacy in driving development financing. Of the total investments, 98% was directed towards the private sector, highlighting Egypt’s commitment to boosting its economy and fostering sustainable growth.
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