★ TURKIYE
Turkey Secures Release of Five Thai Hostages from Gaza
Turkey’s intelligence agency facilitated the release of five Thai hostages from Gaza following diplomatic efforts with Hamas, under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s directive. Turkish intelligence sources confirmed that, in line with Erdoğan’s commitment to the Palestinian cause, both the intelligence agency and the Foreign Ministry maintained continuous communication with key actors to achieve a Gaza ceasefire since October 2023.
Turkey Awaits Eurofighter Typhoon Purchase Offer to Strengthen Air Force
Turkey expects a price offer for Eurofighter Typhoon jets as part of efforts to enhance its air force capabilities, according to the Defense Ministry. Military security sources confirmed Turkey prioritizes domestically produced defense systems, including KAAN, HURJET, KIZILELMA, and ANKA-3 while pursuing F-16 and Eurofighter Typhoon acquisitions to meet immediate operational needs.
Turkish and Dutch Foreign Ministers Discuss Syria and Gaza Developments
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a phone call with his Dutch counterpart Caspar Veldkamp to discuss developments in Syria and Gaza. According to Turkish Foreign Ministry sources, the conversation on Thursday covered the situation in Syria, ongoing events in Gaza, and bilateral relations. Both ministers also addressed Turkey-EU relations and key regional issues impacting diplomatic engagement between Ankara and The Hague.
Turkey’s Exports to Africa Reach $20 Billion in 2024
Turkey’s exports to African nations reached $19.42 billion in 2024, marking a 1.7% annual increase and representing 7.4% of total exports. According to the Turkish Exporters’ Assembly, Turkey exported goods to 56 African countries last year. Egypt ranked as the top importer with $3.5 billion, followed by Morocco with $3.1 billion and Libya with $2.5 billion. This reflects Ankara’s expanding trade footprint across the continent.
Turkey Neutralizes 278 PKK/YPG Militants in January 2025
Turkey’s Defense Ministry announced that security forces neutralized 278 PKK/YPG militants since the beginning of 2025, intensifying counterterrorism operations. Ministry spokesperson Admiral Zeki Aktürk confirmed in a press briefing that 57 militants were eliminated in northern Iraq and Syria over the past week. He emphasized Turkey’s commitment to eradicating threats at their source through continuous military operations.
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★ SYRIA
Qatar’s Emir Visits Syria, Backs Transitional Leadership and Stability
Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani visited Damascus, meeting Al-Julani to reaffirm Qatar’s support for Syria’s unity, sovereignty, and stability. He emphasized forming an inclusive government and praised transitional efforts. The visit followed Bashar Al-Assad’s ouster, marking Qatar’s renewed engagement. Doha pledged support for reconstruction and regional cooperation, strengthening ties with Syria’s new administration. This visit underscores Qatar’s strategic role in shaping Syria’s post-war political landscape and fostering regional stability.
Syria’s Interim President Vows Inclusive Government, Security Reforms, and National Unity
Interim Syrian President Al-Julani pledged to establish an inclusive government, issue a constitutional declaration, and organize a national dialogue conference. He prioritized national reconciliation, full sovereignty, and accountability for war crimes. His administration dissolved Assad’s security forces, the Baath Party, and affiliated institutions, emphasizing transparent governance. Plans include free elections, institutional restructuring, and economic reforms. Al-Julani reaffirmed their commitment to stability, justice, and rebuilding Syria, ensuring a unified nation under one authority with strengthened regional and international cooperation.
U.S. Maintains Sanctions on Syria Despite Temporary Economic Relief
The U.S. eased financial restrictions on Syria for six months but upheld key sanctions, including the Caesar Act, arms export bans, and financial transaction restrictions. The Captagon Law remains active, targeting Syrian officials involved in drug trafficking. Despite humanitarian aid exemptions, Syria’s terror sponsor designation limits international banking access and foreign investments. Washington’s measures continue to block Syria’s economic reintegration, preventing full recovery while maintaining diplomatic leverage over the new transitional government’s policies and financial dealings.
U.S. Airstrike Kills Al-Qaeda Leader as Trump Denies Syria Withdrawal
The U.S. Central Command confirmed a precise airstrike in northwest Syria, killing Mohammed Salah Al-Zubair, a senior Hurras al-Din leader. CENTCOM emphasized ongoing counterterrorism efforts, with 900 U.S. troops in Syria and 2,500 in Iraq supporting anti-ISIS operations. Meanwhile, Donald Trump denied reports of planning a U.S. troop withdrawal, dismissing claims that the White House informed Israel of reductions. The Pentagon confirmed 2,000 troops remain in Syria, exceeding previous estimates, reflecting undisclosed deployments for counterterrorism missions.
Gabbard Accuses U.S. of Aiding al-Qaeda as Kelly Questions Claims
During a hearing, Tulsi Gabbard accused the Obama and Trump administrations of providing direct and indirect support to al-Qaeda in Syria, citing government programs like Timber Sycamore that armed fighters linked to the group. She argued that regime change efforts led to the rise of extremists. Senator Mark Kelly challenged her claims, accusing her of echoing Russian and Iranian narratives. Gabbard insisted Americans deserve to know the truth about their government’s support for a 9/11-linked terrorist organization.
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★ IRAN
Iran Sets Conditions for Nuclear Talks With Western Nations
Iran expressed readiness for nuclear discussions if Western nations demonstrate “seriousness,” according to the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Thursday. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei stated in an interview with the state-run Iran newspaper that Tehran remains open to negotiations but requires clear commitments from Western counterparts. He emphasized that Iran has repeatedly affirmed its willingness for dialogue but only if the other side proves its seriousness.
Iranian Foreign Minister Meets Senior Hamas Leaders in Doha
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is set to visit Qatar on Thursday for high-level talks with senior Hamas leaders, according to the Iranian Foreign Ministry. The ministry’s statement highlighted that the visit aims to commend the Palestinian people for their “legendary resistance” over the past 16 months. Discussions will also focus on the latest developments in Palestine. This diplomatic engagement underscores Iran’s continued support for Hamas and its strategic alignment with Palestinian factions during ongoing regional tensions.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Hamas Frees Eight Hostages as Secret ‘Shadow Unit’ Appears Publicly
Eight hostages, including Israelis and Thai nationals, were released after 482 days in captivity under a ceasefire deal. Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes, and five Thai workers endured a chaotic handover in Khan Younis, while IDF soldier Agam Berger was freed in Jabalia after a staged Hamas ceremony. Hamas’s covert Shadow Unit appeared publicly for the first time during Berger’s transfer, provoking Israeli outrage. The unit, responsible for hiding captives, has evaded Israeli intelligence since 2014 using tunnels and secret locations.
Israel Releases 110 Palestinian Prisoners in Ceasefire Exchange
Israel freed 110 Palestinian prisoners, including 32 serving life sentences, in exchange for three hostages under the ceasefire deal. Among those released was Zakaria Zubeidi, a former al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades leader. Celebrations in Ramallah led to clashes as Israeli forces used tear gas to disperse crowds. The IDF carried out arrests and confiscated terror group flags. Israel initially delayed the release after a chaotic hostage handover but resumed after securing guarantees for future safe transfers.
Hamas Confirms Muhammad Deif Killed in Israeli Airstrike
Hamas officially admitted its military commander Muhammad Deif was killed in an Israeli airstrike on July 13 in Khan Younis. Spokesman Abu Obeida also confirmed the deaths of senior leaders Marwan Issa, Ghazi Abu Tama’a, Raad Thabet, and Rafa’a Salameh. Deif, mastermind of Hamas’s October 7 attack, had survived multiple Israeli assassination attempts. The ICC had issued an arrest warrant for Deif on war crimes charges, but it remains active despite confirmation of his death.
Israel Bans UNRWA Over Alleged Hamas Ties During Global Reactions
Israel banned UNRWA, citing its alleged links to Hamas and terror activities, with the Supreme Court upholding the decision. The ban, covering East Jerusalem, blocks UNRWA operations and government contact. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged Israel to reverse the move, defending UNRWA’s humanitarian role. The U.S., under President Trump, backed Israel, claiming the agency fuels instability. Israel insists other organizations can replace UNRWA, while donor nations debate its future in Palestinian aid distribution.
Israel Intensifies West Bank Raids, Killing 13 Palestinians During Clashes
Israeli forces escalated operations across the West Bank, conducting airstrikes in Tammun that killed 10 Palestinians and deadly raids in Jenin and Nablus. An ambush in Jenin left one Israeli soldier dead and five wounded. Troops raided homes, demolished properties, and forcibly displaced thousands in Tulkarm, worsening humanitarian conditions. Resistance groups claimed attacks on Israeli forces, reporting direct hits. The Palestinian Red Crescent warned of severe shortages in essentials, while tensions continue escalating across the occupied territories.
Jenin Battalion Ambush Kills and Wounds Israeli Soldiers During Escalation
Al-Quds Brigades–Jenin Battalion detonated a booby-trapped house, killing and injuring Israeli soldiers after luring them inside. The explosives used were reportedly seized from Israeli forces during ongoing military operations. The attack was in response to Israel’s assassination of 10 Palestinian fighters in Tammun. Following the ambush, Israeli Apache helicopters bombed Jenin, intensifying military operations across the northern West Bank as tensions and clashes escalate in the occupied territories.
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★ LEBANON
Israel Accuses Iran of Funding Hezbollah, Threatens Beirut Airport Strike
Israel told the U.S.-led ceasefire committee that Iranian diplomats are delivering millions in cash to Hezbollah via Beirut Airport. The Wall Street Journal reported Israeli claims that Turkish entities transferred Iranian funds to Hezbollah by air, which Turkey denied. The committee acknowledges Iran’s continued financial support for Hezbollah. Israel warned it would strike Beirut Airport if used for smuggling. The ceasefire extension remains fragile as Israel delays its full withdrawal from southern Lebanon, citing security concerns.
Hezbollah Faces Weapons Looting and Financial Struggles During Ceasefire Talks
Hezbollah is grappling with security and financial crises as criminal groups loot its weapons depots in Beirut’s southern suburbs and southern Lebanon, selling stolen arms on the black market. Simultaneously, the group postponed compensation payments for war-damaged homes, citing technical issues during reports of a cyberattack on Al-Qard Al-Hassan systems. Experts question Hezbollah’s financial vulnerabilities, while analysts suggest economic strain or security concerns caused the delay. Hezbollah admitted needing Lebanese and foreign aid to manage reconstruction efforts.
IDF Downs Hezbollah Drone in Ceasefire Violation
The IDF intercepted a Hezbollah surveillance drone near Israel’s border, marking the first such incident since the November ceasefire. The drone, downed by a ground-based air defense system, violated the agreement barring Hezbollah from operating south of the Litani River. The incident follows Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah targets, heightening tensions. Israel postponed its withdrawal from southern Lebanon, citing the Lebanese army’s failure to deploy as required under the U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement.
Israel Strikes Eastern Lebanon and Syria Border During Ceasefire Tensions
Israeli warplanes struck eastern Lebanon and the Lebanon-Syria border, targeting Janta in Baalbek and Al-Qasr. Drones hit a Hussainiya site in southern Lebanon, narrowly missing workers. The IDF demolished structures in Kafr Kila and fired on civilians in Rmeish. Artillery targeted Shebaa, while Israeli forces destroyed properties in multiple southern villages. The escalation continues despite Lebanon extending the ceasefire until February 18, raising fears of renewed conflict along the volatile border.
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★IRAQ
Iraqi Activist Salwan Momika Shot Dead in Sweden During Live Stream
Iraqi activist Salwan Momika, known for Quran burnings, was fatally shot near Stockholm during a live-streamed broadcast. Swedish authorities arrested five suspects and are investigating possible foreign involvement. Momika, a Catholic, sought asylum in Norway and the U.S. after facing legal action and backlash for anti-Islam protests. His demonstrations, allowed under Sweden’s free speech laws, sparked riots and diplomatic tensions with Muslim-majority nations. Swedish security services are probing international links to his assassination.
Iraq and Egypt Expand Trade Ties with New Agreements
Iraq and Egypt signed 11 trade and economic agreements in Baghdad during Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly’s visit. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and Madbouly oversaw deals covering trade, energy, transport, agriculture, and technology. The agreements encourage Egyptian investment in Iraq’s infrastructure and banking sectors. A business forum aimed at boosting private sector collaboration and regional economic growth. The move strengthens long-term political and trade relations, fostering sustainable development and mutual economic benefits.
Iraq Seeks Global Cooperation to Counter ISIS Threats
Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein stressed the need for international collaboration to combat ISIS threats and ensure regional security. He confirmed ongoing U.S. talks on military presence and Iraq’s efforts to control security without armed faction influence. Hussein warned of 12,000 ISIS prisoners in Syria posing risks if released, urging stronger border security. Iraq is also enhancing ties with Syria and Turkey for counterterrorism cooperation, prioritizing diplomatic efforts to strengthen long-term regional stability.
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★ GULF NATIONS
UAE Receives First Batch of French Rafale Fighter Jets
The UAE Ministry of Defense announced the delivery of the first batch of 80 Rafale fighter jets, marking a significant step in strengthening its armed forces. This acquisition is part of a “historic deal” signed with France’s Dassault Aviation, reflecting deep strategic ties between the UAE and France. The handover took place during an official ceremony in Paris, attended by UAE Minister of State for Defense Affairs Mohammed Al Mazrouei, senior defense officials, and high-ranking French representatives.
Saudi and Russian Foreign Ministers Discuss Regional Developments
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan received a call from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to discuss bilateral relations and regional developments. The ministers reviewed key geopolitical issues and exchanged views on pressing regional matters. The conversation emphasized ongoing diplomatic engagement between Riyadh and Moscow, reinforcing cooperation on strategic and security concerns.
Saudi Economy Expands by 4.4% in Q4 2024, Highest in Two Years
Saudi Arabia’s economy grew by 4.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024, marking its highest expansion in two years, according to the General Authority for Statistics. Non-oil activities surged by 4.6%, while oil activities increased by 3.4%, reflecting broad economic expansion. Government sector activities also rose by 2.2% compared to the same period in 2023. This growth underscores Saudi Arabia’s ongoing economic diversification and strengthened performance across key sectors.
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★ EGYPT & North Africa
World’s Largest Sovereign Fund Invests $100.3 Million in Egypt
Norway’s sovereign wealth fund, the world’s largest, invested $100.3 million in 11 Egyptian companies by the end of last year, according to fund data. The figures indicate a decline from $134.6 million in 13 companies in 2023. The fund’s report also revealed that its total investments in 89 publicly listed Arab companies reached approximately $5 billion. This shift reflects a strategic reallocation of assets during evolving global and regional economic conditions.
Egypt-Iraq Trade Volume Reaches $703 Million, Growing 32%
Egypt’s Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation reported that trade between Egypt and Iraq reached $703 million in 2023, marking a 32% increase. The announcement coincides with the third session of the Egyptian-Iraqi Joint Higher Committee. Additionally, Iraqi investments in Egypt amounted to $542 million as of April 2023. The growing trade and investment ties highlight strengthening economic relations between both nations.
Italian Drilling Ship Arrives in Egypt for New Zohr Gas Wells
Egypt’s Petroleum Ministry announced the arrival of an Italian Eni-owned drilling ship to start drilling new wells at the Zohr gas field. The Saipem 10000 vessel reached Egyptian waters on Tuesday to commence operations in the offshore field north of Port Said, utilizing advanced drilling technology. The ministry did not specify the exact number of wells or a precise timeline, but the vessel’s arrival signals the start of the new drilling phase.
Tunisia’s Foreign Reserves Drop to $7.3 Billion After Debt Payment
Tunisia’s foreign currency reserves fell to $7.3 billion, covering 104 days of imports, after repaying $1.1 billion in external debt. The Central Bank of Tunisia reported on Thursday that reserves declined to 23.325 billion dinars ($7.30 billion), down from 26.701 billion dinars, which covered 119 days of imports the previous day. The drop highlights Tunisia’s financial pressures during ongoing economic challenges.
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