★ GULF NATIONS
UAE Brokers Russia-Ukraine Prisoner Swap, Facilitates 2,883 Releases
The UAE brokered a Russia-Ukraine prisoner swap, exchanging 150 detainees per side, totaling 300 captives. Abu Dhabi praised Russian-Ukrainian cooperation, reinforcing its role as a trusted mediator. Since 2024, the UAE has facilitated 12 exchanges, bringing the total to 2,883 prisoners. The UAE’s foreign ministry reaffirmed its commitment to diplomatic efforts for peace in Ukraine and mitigating humanitarian impacts, including refugee crises and prisoner conditions.
Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and UAE Leaders Discuss Gaza Developments
Jordan’s King Abdullah II held calls with Qatar’s Emir, Saudi Crown Prince, and UAE President, discussing Gaza’s worsening crisis. They stressed halting Israeli settlements, rejecting land annexation, and preventing Palestinian displacement. Jordan welcomed Saudi Arabia’s firm support for Palestinian rights. Talks followed U.S. President Trump’s proposal to relocate Gazans, which Jordan, Egypt, and Palestinians strongly opposed. The leaders urged intensified Arab and global efforts to secure Palestinian rights and maintain a lasting ceasefire in Gaza.
Saudi Foreign Reserves Drop to $436.98 Billion in December 2024
Saudi Arabia’s foreign reserves fell 2.9% monthly to $436.98 billion but rose 0.1% year-on-year. Investments in foreign securities grew to $270.88 billion, increasing 0.7% monthly and 3.1% annually. Foreign currency and deposits declined 9.4% monthly to $142 billion, down 4.7% yearly. The IMF reserve fell 12.2% annually to $3.24 billion, while special drawing rights dropped 1.8% to $20.52 billion. The central bank’s reserves include gold, IMF holdings, foreign deposits, and investments.
UAE Foreign Trade Surpasses 3 Trillion Dirhams in 2024
The UAE’s foreign trade hit a record 3 trillion dirhams in 2024, growing 14.6% annually. Non-oil exports rose 27.6% to 561.2 billion dirhams, contributing 18.7% to total trade. Trade with top partners grew 10%, while economic partnerships added 135 billion dirhams, up 42.3%. Re-exports reached 734.4 billion dirhams, rising 7.3%, and non-oil imports hit 1.7 trillion dirhams. The UAE’s strong trade performance highlights its economic diversification and global market leadership.
============
★ IRAN
Trump Open to Iran Deal, Tehran Considers Diplomatic Engagement
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed willingness to negotiate a new agreement with Iran, aiming to ease tensions while ensuring Tehran never acquires nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, a senior Iranian official indicated openness to diplomacy despite past U.S. pressure, emphasizing Iran’s stance against weapons of mass destruction. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi noted Iran’s concerns over Israeli sabotage but acknowledged the possibility of a diplomatic resolution. Both sides appear cautiously receptive to renewed negotiations during regional uncertainties.
Iran Warns U.S. Sanctions Will Destabilize Global Oil Markets
Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad stated that unilateral sanctions on crude oil producers threaten global energy stability, following Trump’s vow to cut Iranian oil exports to zero. Speaking to OPEC Secretary-General Haitham Al-Ghais, he emphasized that depoliticizing oil markets is crucial for energy security. He warned that sanctions on major producers and pressure on OPEC would destabilize oil markets and harm global consumers, exacerbating energy volatility worldwide.
Iran Deploys Russian Air Defense Systems in Military Exercises
Iran utilized Russian-made long-range air defense systems during military drills following Israeli airstrikes in October, which Tel Aviv claimed weakened Tehran’s defenses. Iranian state television reported that Iran’s Bavar-373 and Russia’s S-300 systems successfully intercepted a simulated hostile target using synchronized missile launches. Officials dismissed claims that Iran’s air defense had been neutralized, emphasizing the continued operational readiness of long-range defense systems.
Iranian Rial Plunges to Record Low After U.S. Sanctions Return
The Iranian rial fell to an all-time low of 850,000 rials per dollar after Donald Trump reinstated maximum pressure policies. The executive order, signed Tuesday night, calls for halting Iranian oil exports and seeking reimposition of UN sanctions. However, Trump also indicated reluctance to enforce full sanctions and expressed interest in negotiating a new agreement with Tehran.
============
★ TURKIYE
German President Visits Turkey for Regional Cooperation Talks
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara during his regional tour, including Saudi Arabia and Jordan. The leaders held closed-door discussions, a working lunch, and a joint press conference. German diplomatic sources highlighted Turkey’s growing regional influence, particularly regarding Syria. Steinmeier aims to enhance cooperation on Syria and will visit German troops stationed in Jordan during his scheduled stop in Amman.
Türkiye Strengthens Regional Security Ties, Proposes Coalition Against ISIL
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan praised Syria’s stance against PKK/YPG during President Ahmad Shar’a’s visit, discussing counterterrorism, security, and Syria’s reconstruction. Türkiye proposed a Türkiye-Syria-Iraq-Jordan coalition to combat ISIL and manage prisons in Syria, with a ministerial meeting in Jordan to formalize the initiative. Fidan urged regional cooperation during potential U.S. troop withdrawal and called for an end to YPG support. Türkiye also seeks CAATSA sanctions removal to enhance trade, defense, and technology ties with Washington.
Turkey Plans Military Bases in Syria, Deploys F-16 Jets
Turkey is set to establish two military bases in Syria and deploy 50 F-16 jets under a defense pact with Damascus. The agreement includes Turkish forces training Syrian troops, and enhancing Syria’s air capabilities. Turkey also plans to deploy advanced radar and electronic warfare systems to bolster security. This move signals a long-term military commitment, potentially shifting regional power dynamics and strengthening Turkey’s strategic influence in Syria’s evolving security landscape.
EU Grants $323M to Enhance Türkiye’s Competitiveness and Sustainability
The EU will provide Türkiye with a €310 million ($323M) grant from 2025-2027 under the IPA program to boost competitiveness and sustainability. This follows €780M in EU funding for Türkiye’s green transformation. The grant prioritizes civil society, energy, transport, education, and employment. EU officials also aim to prevent trade disruptions during potential U.S. tariffs under Trump’s administration, emphasizing economic cooperation and maintaining stable transatlantic trade relations.
============
★ LEBANON
Khamenei Appoints Hezbollah Leader Naim Qassem as Lebanon Representative
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei appointed Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem as his representative in Lebanon, overseeing religious and administrative affairs. Qassem replaces Hassan Nasrallah, killed in an Israeli airstrike in September 2024. Hezbollah, part of Iran’s “axis of resistance,” opposes Israel and U.S. influence. Following a ceasefire, Hezbollah plans a public funeral for Nasrallah and his successor, Hashem Safieddine, both killed in Israeli strikes, marking a major shift in Hezbollah’s leadership.
UNIFIL Confirms Lebanese Army Readiness During Israeli Violations
UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti affirmed the Lebanese army’s deployment in southern Lebanon as Israeli ceasefire violations reached 854. Israeli forces continue demolitions in Rab Thalathin and Yaroun, escalating tensions. Israel failed to withdraw within the agreed 60-day deadline, prompting an extension until February 18. The violations have resulted in 67 deaths and 263 injuries. Overall, the conflict has left 4,098 dead, 16,888 injured, and displaced 1.4 million people across Lebanon.
===============
★ SYRIA
Trump Plans U.S. Withdrawal from Syria, SDF Vows to Defend Territory
The Pentagon is drafting plans to withdraw all U.S. troops from Syria within 30 to 90 days, following Trump’s directive. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz visited U.S. Central Command for security briefings during concerns over ISIS. resurgence. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) stated they were not informed of the withdrawal and warned of potential ISIS threats. SDF representatives affirmed continued U.S. coordination but pledged to defend their territory if American forces left.
Macron Congratulates Syrian President al-Jolani, Invites Him to France
French President Emmanuel Macron called Syrian President al-Jolani to congratulate him and invite him to Paris for diplomatic talks. Macron pledged support for Syria’s transition and efforts to lift sanctions. Al-Jolani thanked Macron, highlighting economic challenges due to sanctions. France, which reopened its embassy in Damascus, aims to assist in drafting a new Syrian constitution. Macron also emphasized counterterrorism efforts and integrating the Syrian Democratic Forces into Syria’s political transition process.
Syria Signs New Deal with French Firm to Operate Latakia Port
Syria’s General Authority for Land and Sea Ports signed a new contract with CMA CGM to manage Latakia’s container terminal. The agreement settles past financial disputes, revises revenue-sharing terms, and shortens the lease period. Latakia Port, Syria’s main maritime hub, has been operated by CMA CGM since 2009. Following Bashar al-Assad’s removal in December 2024, the transitional government renegotiated terms to secure greater financial benefits and enhance operational efficiency.
============
★ ISRAEL
Israel Follows U.S. in Withdrawing from UN Human Rights Council
Israel withdrew from the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) after U.S. President Donald Trump ended American participation, citing anti-Israel bias. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar condemned the UNHRC for disproportionately targeting Israel while ignoring major human rights violators. He noted that over 20% of its condemnatory resolutions have been against Israel. Trump also halted U.S. funding for UNRWA, accusing it of ties to terrorism. Israel vowed to reject discrimination within international human rights institutions.
Israel Tests 22 Anti-Drone Technologies to Counter Evolving Threats
Israel’s Defense Ministry completed testing 22 drone defense technologies from nine companies, including kinetic shoot-downs and counter-drone systems. Despite advancements, no deployment timeline was provided. The trials, involving firms like Elbit, Rafael, and IAI, were observed by U.S. military experts. Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized rapid innovation to counter escalating UAV threats, particularly those from Iran and its regional proxies. The ministry aims to expedite development, deploying new interception systems within months to enhance national security.
============
★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Trump’s Gaza Relocation Plan Sparks Debate, U.S. Rules Out Reconstruction Funding
U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal suggests relocating Gazans to Somalia, Puntland, or Morocco, with Jordan and Egypt expected to host them temporarily. White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt called the plan “historic,” while Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised it as a “generous offer.” National Security Advisor Mike Waltz framed it as pressure on Arab states for alternatives. The White House confirmed the U.S. will not fund Gaza’s reconstruction. The plan contradicts decades of U.S. policy and faces strong Arab opposition.
Jordan Warns of War If Israel Expels Palestinians
Jordan vows to shut its borders and warns of possible war if Israel forcibly expels Palestinians. Middle East Eye reported Jordan prefers peace but sees forced displacement as a red line. Trump reiterated Palestinians must leave Gaza, urging Egypt and Jordan to host them temporarily. Reports indicate Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and King Abdullah may meet Trump in Washington to discuss alternatives, as regional tensions escalate over the proposed Palestinian relocation.
Hamas Calls for Unity Government, Fatah Rejects During Trump’s Gaza Plan
Hamas urged forming a unity government to counter Trump’s plan to relocate Palestinians and control Gaza, rejecting any administration without its role. Spokesman Mahmoud Mardawi affirmed Hamas’ acceptance of Egypt’s proposals for Gaza’s management. Fatah dismissed the call as belated, insisting Hamas must step aside for international engagement.
Israel Strikes Tubas, Expands Settlements in Sheikh Jarrah
An Israeli drone strike hit Tubas as forces raided homes, converting them into military posts during intensified West Bank operations. Troops expanded assaults in Jenin and Tulkarm, causing casualties, arrests, and infrastructure destruction. Meanwhile, Haaretz reported Israel’s plan to build 316 settler units in Sheikh Jarrah, displacing Palestinian families. The expansion follows Trump’s return, violating international law and undermining the two-state solution. The UN continues to condemn settlement activity, warning it jeopardizes peace efforts.
============
★IRAQ
Trump Envoy Pressures Iraq Over Kidnapped Israeli’s Release
U.S. envoy Adam Buehler warned Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani, demanding the release of Israeli citizen Elizabeth Tsurkov. He stated Iraq must secure her freedom or be seen as complicit. Tsurkov, a Princeton Ph.D. student, was abducted in Baghdad in March 2023, allegedly by Kataib Hezbollah, which denies involvement. Reports suggest Israel considered a Hezbollah prisoner swap, but Iraqi sources rejected claims of negotiations or government efforts. The case strains Iraq-U.S. relations during regional tensions.
Trump Halts Iraq’s Energy Imports from Iran, Tightens Sanctions
President Trump revoked Iraq’s waiver to import electricity and gas from Iran, escalating sanctions pressure. His directive enforces immediate measures preventing Iran from using Iraq’s financial system to evade sanctions. The order mandates reviewing and revoking exemptions providing Iran economic relief, including the Chabahar Port projects. It also implements strict actions to reduce Iranian oil exports, particularly shipments to China and Gulf nations, aiming to cut Tehran’s revenue and limit its regional influence.
Iraq and Russia Strengthen Cooperation, Address Regional Issues
Iraq and Russia discussed enhancing bilateral ties and regional stability in meetings between Russian envoy Mikhail Bogdanov and top Iraqi officials. Talks covered Palestinian self-determination, Syria’s stability, and economic collaboration. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani agreed in principle to attend the upcoming Arab-Russian summit in Moscow. Russia seeks to activate agreements before the 10th Iraq-Russia Joint Committee meeting, reinforcing energy, trade, and defense cooperation between both nations.
Iraq Freezes Talks on Armed Factions During Political Deadlock
Iraq suspended plans to resolve armed factions due to stalled U.S. engagement and Iran’s refusal to offer concessions. Shiite forces debated dissolving factions into the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) or freezing them while restructuring PMF leadership. Western sources suspect the talks are symbolic, aimed at easing pressure without real change. Iran rejected external influence on PMF reforms, considering concessions unnecessary unless strategically beneficial, effectively stalling efforts to address the factions’ status.
===============
★ EGYPT
Palestinian-Egyptian Meeting in Cairo to Discuss Gaza Governance
A high-level meeting between Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa convenes Wednesday in Cairo. Talks focus on Gaza’s administration following U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks about American control over the enclave. A Palestinian government source confirmed discussions will address policy coordination and mechanisms for Palestinian governmental intervention in Gaza, following the establishment of a committee to manage the territory.
Sisi Urges Macron to Back International Support for Two-State Solution
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi stressed to French President Emmanuel Macron the importance of international support for the two-state solution. During a phone call on Wednesday, both leaders reaffirmed strong bilateral ties and commitment to enhancing cooperation across various sectors. They emphasized the need for continued coordination on regional and international issues. Discussions also covered developments in the Middle East, highlighting the importance of diplomatic efforts for regional stability.
Egypt to Repay $661.6 Million to IMF During February 2025
According to data published on the IMF website, Egypt is set to repay $661.6 million to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) this month. The country already paid $252.6 million in January, bringing total repayments to $914.2 million for the first two months of 2025. Meanwhile, the Egyptian government awaits the IMF Executive Board’s approval to disburse the fourth tranche of $1.2 billion, following a staff-level agreement reached 40 days ago.
===========
