★ SYRIA
Julani Declares Himself Syria’s Transitional President, Reshapes Government
Abu Mohammed al-Julani named himself Syria’s transitional president, suspending the constitution and dissolving Baath Party institutions after ousting Bashar al-Assad. His HTS-backed interim government is cautiously approached by Western nations during concerns over extremism. Julani pledged state-building, Arab world reintegration, and rejecting foreign interference. Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Sheibani emphasized a new Syrian identity based on justice and freedom. Syria is strengthening regional ties and reshaping its foreign policy through new strategic partnerships.
Syria Demands Israeli Withdrawal as UN Conducts Mine-Clearing Operations
Syria’s new administration urged Israel to withdraw from occupied southern areas, reaffirming cooperation under the 1974 mandate if Israel complies. Meanwhile, Israel built a helicopter base on Mount Hermon and expanded military incursions near Quneitra. The UN condemned Israel’s buffer zone control as a ceasefire violation. In response, UN teams launched mine-clearing operations in Israeli-controlled Quneitra to enhance security and stabilize the region during ongoing territorial disputes and rising tensions.
Syria and EU Discuss Sanctions Relief During Russian Asset Concerns
Syria’s Finance Minister Mohammed Abazid met EU officials in Damascus to discuss economic recovery and easing sanctions imposed after Assad’s ouster. Talks followed the EU’s roadmap for gradual sanctions relief, including restrictions on Syrian oil exports and financial access. A European source confirmed that Russian assets in Syria remain a key reason for maintaining banking sanctions. Officials emphasized a cautious, reviewable approach, balancing Syria’s recovery with diplomatic leverage while addressing Russian economic influence and ensuring compliance with international financial regulations.
Gabbard’s Syria Meeting Sparks Controversy in Intelligence Nomination
Tulsi Gabbard faces scrutiny over her 2017 meeting with Bashar al-Assad as she seeks confirmation as U.S. intelligence chief. Lawmakers question her foreign policy stance on Syria, Russia, and intelligence reforms, raising national security concerns. Gabbard defends the trip as a diplomatic effort, but bipartisan skepticism remains. With Assad ousted and exiled, Senate Republicans demand clarity on her discussions before voting on her nomination, fueling debates over U.S. intelligence strategy and global security policies.
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★ ISRAEL
Trump Strengthens U.S. Support for Israel, Signs Order Against Antisemitism
President Donald Trump signed an executive order combatting antisemitism, vowing to deport non-citizens involved in pro-Palestinian protests and revoke student visas for Hamas sympathizers. The order mandates immediate Justice Department action against threats targeting Jewish Americans. Meanwhile, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth assured Israeli counterpart Yisrael Katz of full U.S. support for Israel’s self-defense. The Trump administration also resumed 2,000-pound bomb shipments to Israel, reinforcing military cooperation during escalating regional threats and ongoing strategic defense collaboration.
IDF Downs Drone Smuggling Rifles, Ammo Near Egypt Border
The IDF intercepted a drone carrying 13 rifles and ammunition after it crossed from Egypt into Israel. Soldiers from the Paran Brigade downed the UAV, transferring it to security forces for inspection. Similar incidents occurred on November 27 and October 30, with drones smuggling firearms into Israel. Security officials confirmed blocking over 30 smuggling attempts via drones near the border, raising concerns over increasing arms trafficking and the need for enhanced surveillance.
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★ IRAN
Khamenei Gives Implicit Approval for Trump Negotiations
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has implicitly approved Iranian officials to engage in negotiations with U.S. President Donald Trump. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran has yet to decide on the necessity of talks. During a meeting in Tehran, Khamenei urged officials to recognize their adversary when negotiating and structure agreements accordingly. He emphasized the importance of caution, stating, “We must open our eyes and be vigilant in our dealings.” Meanwhile, Araghchi reiterated that Iran has not finalized a decision on negotiations, stressing that any talks would be conducted on equal terms.
Iran Declares Syrian Resistance Will Return Stronger Soon
Iranian Deputy Speaker of Parliament Hamid Reza Haji Babaei stated that the resistance movement in Syria has not been defeated and will soon return stronger. He emphasized that Gaza’s recent actions followed this strategic approach, leading to its perceived success in the conflict. Babaei asserted that despite U.S. and Israeli opposition, they failed to achieve victory over Gaza. He further argued that no nation can ensure its security solely within its borders, stressing that Iran’s strategy is to establish security beyond its territorial boundaries.
Iran Adds Su-35 Fighters to Fleet, Issues Warning to “Enemy”
Iran confirmed the acquisition of Russian Su-35 fighter jets, strengthening military ties with Moscow under a new 20-year strategic partnership. The announcement follows an agreement between Russia and Iran to enhance defense cooperation during Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s visit to Moscow. Western nations have expressed concerns over the deepening military alliance. General Ali Shadmani, Deputy Chief of Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters, confirmed the purchase without specifying the number of jets.
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★ TURKIYE
Renewable Energy Saves Turkey $15 Billion in Gas Imports
Turkey saved $15 billion in natural gas imports over the past two and a half years due to solar and wind energy expansion, according to a report by London-based Ember Energy Research. The report highlighted that solar power alone generated 52 terawatt-hours of electricity during this period, accounting for 6% of Turkey’s total electricity supply. This shift helped the country avoid importing $5.4 billion worth of natural gas, strengthening energy independence and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan Agree on Connectivity Projects
Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan agreed to enhance trade and transportation cooperation, working together to establish efficient routes between Asia and Europe. Foreign, trade, economy, and transport ministers from the three nations met in Ankara on January 29 for the second trilateral meeting. Following discussions, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov, and Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov held a joint press conference to announce key decisions aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and economic integration.
Turkey Eliminates Key PKK Financial Operative in Syria
Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization neutralized a senior financial operative of the PKK in Syria, security sources confirmed on Wednesday. Intelligence efforts pinpointed the location of Shiraz Omar, also known as Sozdar Afrin, a financial leader within the group. He was tracked and eliminated in a precision operation along the Rumelan-Malikiyah road in Syria. The operation marks a continued effort by Turkish intelligence to disrupt PKK financial networks and operational structures in the region.
Turkey Removes Kurdish Mayor, Detains Opposition Journalists
Turkey’s Interior Ministry removed Siirt Mayor Sofya Alagöz from office and detained several opposition journalists linked to an investigation involving Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. Alagöz, a member of a pro-Kurdish party, was dismissed due to a previous six-year prison sentence for alleged ties to the Kurdistan Communities Union, affiliated with the outlawed PKK. Turkish authorities continue to crack down on figures linked to groups classified as terrorist organizations by Turkey, the U.S., and the EU.
Turkish President Erdoğan Meets Hamas Delegation in Ankara
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan met with a Hamas delegation led by Political Council Chairman Mohammed Darwish at the Presidential Complex in Ankara. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Intelligence Chief İbrahim Kalın, and Presidential Communications Director Fahrettin Altun attended the meeting. Discussions focused on regional developments and Türkiye’s engagement with Palestinian affairs.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Hamas Accuses Israel of Aid Delays, Threatens Hostage Deal; Israel Denies Claims
Hamas accused Israel of delaying aid deliveries to Gaza, warning it could disrupt the hostage exchange. Israel dismissed the claim as “fake news,” stating that 3,000 aid trucks entered since Sunday, exceeding requirements. Hamas insists key supplies like fuel and heavy machinery remain undelivered. The dispute arises as Hamas prepares to release six hostages in the coming days under the ceasefire agreement, which also mandates phased exchanges, Israeli withdrawal, and continued humanitarian aid.
Hamas Submits List of Israeli Hostages for Release Under Ceasefire Deal
Hamas submitted a list of three Israeli hostages—Arbel Yehoud, Agam Berger, and Gadi Moses—set for release Thursday. In exchange, Israel will free 110 Palestinian prisoners, including 30 serving life sentences, 30 minors, and several women. Israel also confirmed Zakaria Zubeidi, Ahmed Barghouti, and Mahmoud Attallah are among the released prisoners. Five Thai nationals may also be freed. The exchange is part of a ceasefire deal starting January 19, aiming for phased hostage releases and further diplomatic negotiations.
Israeli Airstrikes Kill 10 in West Bank, Target Militant Leaders
An Israeli airstrike in Tamun, northern West Bank, killed 10 people, including Omar Basharat, commander of Palestinian Islamic Jihad’s Tamun Battalion. The IDF confirmed targeting an armed terrorist cell as part of intensified counterterrorism operations. Palestinian sources identified Osama and Montaser Bani Odeh among the dead. Earlier, an Israeli strike in Tulkarm’s Nur Shams camp killed Hamas commander Iyad Abu Atiyeh. The IDF stated these operations aim to dismantle militant networks and prevent future attacks.
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★ LEBANON
Lebanese Army Takes Control of Hezbollah’s Massive Tunnel Complex
The Lebanese army took over Hezbollah’s Imad 4 tunnel facility near Tyre, a vast underground network designed for trucks, weapons, and missile storage. The site was emptied before military entry. Reports highlight Hezbollah’s extensive tunnels, spanning hundreds of kilometers and reaching 80 meters deep, surpassing Gaza’s underground infrastructure. Meanwhile, the IDF continues targeting Hezbollah’s hidden weapons caches before withdrawing under the extended Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, set to expire on February 18, 2025.
Israeli Strikes in Southern Lebanon Injure 29 During Ceasefire Tensions
An Israeli drone strike in Majdal Selm injured five people, while another airstrike in Nabatieh targeted Hezbollah vehicles, injuring 24. Israel extended its withdrawal deadline to February 18, citing Lebanese army deployment delays. Under the US-brokered ceasefire, Hezbollah must retreat north of the Litani River, while Israel can strike imminent threats. The ongoing conflict has displaced 1.3 million Lebanese and 60,000 Israelis, raising humanitarian concerns and regional security challenges.
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★ YEMEN
Italian Frigate Joins EU’s Aspides Mission to Protect Red Sea Shipping
The Italian frigate ITS Martinengo joined the EU’s Aspides mission, securing Red Sea shipping lanes from Houthi attacks. The defensive operation, launched on February 19, 2024, protects commercial vessels but prohibits strikes on Houthi land targets. Its deployment follows Houthi claims of reducing attacks after the Gaza ceasefire. Aspides, headquartered in Greece, operates with warships from 21 European nations, ensuring maritime security and stability in one of the world’s most critical trade routes.
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★ GULF NATIONS
UAE and Hungary Sign Agreements to Strengthen Economic Cooperation
UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed met Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to enhance economic, trade, and investment ties. Both leaders witnessed agreements in education, renewable energy, and infrastructure, exchanged by UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed and Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó. Discussions focused on technology, sustainable development, and economic collaboration. In March, both nations signed an economic cooperation pact to boost private-sector partnerships, reinforcing bilateral trade and long-term investment opportunities.
Saudi Crown Prince, European Council President Discuss Security, and Cooperation
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received a call from European Council President António Costa to discuss Saudi-EU cooperation and regional stability. Both leaders exchanged views on key international issues, emphasizing efforts to enhance security, diplomacy, and economic collaboration. The discussion reinforced strategic partnerships between Saudi Arabia and Europe, highlighting mutual commitments to peace, stability, and long-term cooperation across trade, security, and geopolitical matters in an evolving global landscape.
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★ EGYPT & North Africa
Egypt and Jordan Firmly Reject Proposal to Displace Palestinians
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Jordanian King Abdullah II firmly rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to relocate Gaza residents to their countries. In their first direct response, El-Sisi stated in Cairo that displacing Palestinians is an injustice Egypt cannot support. Meanwhile, King Abdullah reaffirmed in Brussels Jordan’s “firm stance” on ensuring Palestinians remain on their land. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to the two-state solution as the only path to securing Palestinian rights.
Egypt Discovers 8 Million Barrels of Oil in Gulf of Suez Well
Egypt’s Petroleum Ministry announced the discovery of at least 8 million barrels of oil in the East Crystal-1 exploratory well in the Gulf of Suez. In a statement on Wednesday, the ministry confirmed that drilling operations in the integrated concession area validated pre-drilling estimates, with the potential for exceeding the projected reserves. The drilling and exploration are being conducted by UAE-based Dragon Oil through its joint venture company, GUPCO.
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