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U.S. Imposes Sanctions on Iranian Oil Shipments to China

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U.S. Imposes Sanctions on Iranian Oil Shipments to China

 

IRAN

  1. U.S. Imposes Sanctions on Iranian Oil Shipments to China

The U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions on a global network shipping millions of barrels of Iranian oil annually to China, funding Tehran’s military activities. This move follows Trump’s reinstatement of maximum pressure to force Iran into accepting a new nuclear agreement. His directive aims to reduce Iranian oil exports to zero to prevent Tehran from developing a military nuclear program. These sanctions mark the first economic measures imposed by Trump’s new administration on Iran since returning to office.

  1. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Launches Drone Carrier Warship

The Revolutionary Guard unveiled a new drone carrier warship equipped with helicopters and cruise missiles,  enhancing Iran’s maritime capabilities. Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri stated that the move aligns with Ali Khamenei’s naval expansion strategy, which was announced last year. He emphasized that Iran’s coastal, island, and maritime presence necessitates protection against foreign threats and that armed forces bear this strategic responsibility. Bagheri assured us these capabilities would not be used against neighbors or regional states.

  1. Iran’s Exports to Oman Reach $1.146 Billion in Nine Months

Iran’s exports to Oman totaled $1.146 billion over the past nine months, marking a 15% increase compared to the previous year. Abdolamir Rabihavi, head of West Asia at Iran’s Trade Development Organization, highlighted the recent Iran-Oman Economic Cooperation Committee meetings. Iran’s imports from Oman reached $631 million during the same period. Rabihavi noted the Iranian Industry Minister’s talks with Omani officials and expressed optimism about expanding trade volume by another 15%.

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TURKIYE

  1. Turkish, and Russian FMs Discuss Syria, Ukraine, and Bilateral Ties

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov discussed Syria, Ukraine, and bilateral ties in a phone call. They focused on regional security and diplomatic cooperation. Fidan also met Iraqi Azm Alliance leader Muthanna Samarrai in Ankara, reinforcing Turkey’s engagement in Iraq’s political landscape. His January 26 visit to Iraq further emphasized Turkey’s strategic outreach. These discussions highlight Turkey’s active foreign policy and strengthening ties with Russia and Iraq on key geopolitical issues.

  1. Erdogan: Turkey’s 2023 Earthquake Cost Government $104 Billion

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake caused $104 billion in direct losses and $150 billion indirectly. The disaster affected 14 million people, displacing 2.5 million. The government allocated $400 million for industrial recovery in 11 affected provinces. Spanning 120,000 square kilometers, the earthquake killed 53,537 and injured 107,213. Reconstruction efforts include a 3,000-meter runway at Hatay Airport to support recovery and improve logistics in disaster-stricken areas.

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LEBANON

  1. Hezbollah Ties Exposed: Hind Rajab Foundation Linked to Terrorist Funding Network

New evidence reveals deep links between Hezbollah and the Belgium-based Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF), led by Dyab Abou Jahjah. Reports confirm his ties to Hezbollah financiers, including sanctioned figures like Kassim Tajideen and Salem Sleem. Jahjah’s associates engaged in illicit financial activities, including real estate, maritime shipments, and diamond trade. U.S. authorities flagged HRF leaders for terrorism connections, raising concerns about its role in Hezbollah’s global funding network under the guise of legal advocacy.

  1. Israel Strikes Southern and Eastern Lebanon, Targets Hezbollah Military Sites

Israeli warplanes struck Hezbollah-linked sites in southern and eastern Lebanon, targeting Wadi between Bafruwa and Aazzeh and the eastern mountain range near Syria. The Israeli military claimed the attacks hit two Hezbollah military sites containing weapons, citing cease-fire violations. The truce, in effect since November 27 and extended until February 18, required Israel’s withdrawal and Hezbollah’s military dismantling south of the Litani River. Both sides accuse each other of breaches, escalating tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border.

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SYRIA

  1. Syrian Defector “Caesar” Breaks Silence on Atrocities

Fared Al-Madani, known as “Caesar,” revealed his identity, detailing how he smuggled images exposing systematic torture under Bashar al-Assad’s regime. His leaked files, pivotal in the U.S. Caesar Act sanctions, also fueled European war crimes investigations. He described victims being numbered, mass graves, and officials extorting families seeking missing relatives. Now in exile, he urges continued legal action against perpetrators, highlighting Syria’s deep-seated human rights violations and the urgent need for justice.

  1. Syrian Army Advances Into Lebanon, Clashes With Hezbollah

Syrian forces entered Lebanon’s Hermel region for the first time since Assad’s fall, clashing with Hezbollah near Al Qusayr. Syrian troops repelled Hezbollah’s advances, forcing their retreat. Mortar fire targeted smuggling routes used for weapons and drug trafficking. Footage showed captured Syrian soldiers, with reports of detained Hezbollah fighters. The new Syrian administration aims to secure borders, disrupting Hezbollah’s operations. This marks a strategic shift, breaking past alliances and escalating tensions in the region.

  1. Syrian Defense Minister: Damascus Open to Keeping Russian Bases

Syrian Defense Minister Marhaf Abu Qasra confirmed Syria may allow Russia to retain its Mediterranean bases if agreements serve national interests. He revealed ongoing negotiations with the U.S. and Turkey on military bases, considering troop reductions. Talks with Washington also address Kurdish forces, with Damascus preferring diplomacy over military action. These discussions highlight Syria’s shifting alliances and evolving security agreements, marking a significant realignment in its military and geopolitical strategy under the new administration.

  1. Alawite Islamic Council Forms as Ex-Military Leader Mobilizes  

Over 130 Alawite clerics announced the formation of the Alawite Islamic Council, led by Ghazal Ghazal, to address sectarian divisions until a constitutional government is established. Meanwhile, former Republican Guard officer Muqdad Futeihah declared the creation of the “Coastal Shield Brigade” to target military and security forces. Concerns over sectarian retaliation are rising during claims of abuses, while divisions persist over the council’s legitimacy and its role in Alawite political representation in Syria.

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ISRAEL

  1. Netanyahu: ‘Saudis Can Create a Palestinian State in Saudi Arabia’

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested Saudi Arabia establish a Palestinian state on its land, rejecting any deal endangering Israel’s security. He cited Hamas-led Gaza as a failed Palestinian state. His remarks came during a Washington visit, where he discussed Israeli-Saudi normalization with U.S. President Donald Trump. However, Saudi Arabia reaffirmed it would not engage in talks without establishing a Palestinian state. Israeli officials fear Netanyahu may delay West Bank annexation to advance Saudi normalization efforts.

  1. IDF Successfully Tests ‘World’s Most Advanced Naval Strike System’

The Israeli Navy successfully tested the Gabriel 5 sea-to-sea missile, precisely striking a simulated enemy vessel. Defense officials hailed it as a major advancement, enhancing Israel’s maritime superiority. The missile strengthens Israel’s ability to protect strategic assets and counter regional threats. IAI CEO Boaz Levy called it the most advanced naval strike system, reinforcing Israel’s commitment to cutting-edge military technology. The test underscores Israel’s ongoing efforts to maintain dominance in naval warfare and regional security.

  1. Trump Sanctions ICC Over Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu, U.S. Soldiers

U.S. President Donald Trump sanctioned ICC officials investigating American troops and Israeli leaders, freezing assets and restricting travel. The move follows ICC arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the Gaza war and U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan. Trump accused the court of abusing its power and politically targeting allies. The ICC warned sanctions could cripple its operations. The decision coincides with Netanyahu’s Washington visit, reinforcing U.S.-Israel cooperation during escalating legal and diplomatic tensions.

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ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR

  1. Trump: “After the War, Israel Will Transfer Gaza to the U.S.”

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Israel would transfer Gaza to the U.S. after the war, eliminating the need for American troops. He proposed relocating Palestinians to safer, modern communities while the U.S. led a large-scale redevelopment project. Speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump suggested Jordan and Egypt should accept Palestinian refugees. The controversial plan has sparked global reactions, raising concerns about Palestinian self-determination, regional stability, and the geopolitical consequences of U.S. involvement in Gaza’s future.

  1. U.S. Attorney General Launches Task Force to Prosecute Hamas

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi established Joint Task Force on October 7 (JTF 10-7) to prosecute Hamas operatives, disrupt terror financing, and combat antisemitic crimes. The task force collaborates with the FBI, Treasury, and Israel to pursue criminal charges, extraditions, and financial sanctions. It will investigate Hamas-linked hate crimes and funding networks. The initiative follows Hamas’ October 7 attack, which killed 1,200 people, including 47 Americans, intensifying counterterrorism efforts to dismantle Hamas operations and financial infrastructure globally.

  1. Resistance Targets Israeli Forces During Catastrophic Conditions in Northern West Bank

Al-Qassam Brigades attacked Israeli forces near Tulkarm as Israel’s military assault devastated northern West Bank, displacing 15,000 Palestinians and demolishing 180 homes. Jenin, Tulkarm, and Tubas face severe destruction, with mass evacuations and infrastructure collapse. Israeli forces imposed a 48-hour curfew in Tubas, forcibly displacing residents, while raids in Nablus and Ramallah resulted in arrests and demolitions. The offensive has killed 905 Palestinians, worsened humanitarian conditions, and escalated regional tensions as essential services collapse under continued Israeli attacks.

  1. Israel Thwarts 90 Major Attacks as Iran Fuels West Bank Unrest

Israeli security forces and the IDF thwarted 90 terrorist attacks, with 75 in Samaria, as Iran funds and arms militant networks. “Operation Iron Wall” has killed 50 terrorists and arrested over 100 suspects near Jenin. The IDF intensified operations after a deadly attack killed two soldiers and wounded eight others. For the first time since 2000, Eitan armored personnel carriers were deployed, signaling expanded military actions to neutralize Iranian-backed threats and prevent further escalation in Judea and Samaria.

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IRAQ

  1. Iraq And Iran Discuss Coordination On Regional Developments

Iraq and Iran held talks in Baghdad to strengthen diplomatic coordination, security cooperation, and economic partnerships during regional tensions. Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid and Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani met Iranian Vice President Mohammad Javad Zarif, to discuss strategic collaboration. The visit followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s reinstatement of “maximum pressure” sanctions on Iran, targeting its economy and oil exports. Iraq views Iran as a key ally, emphasizing past counterterrorism cooperation and regional stability efforts.

  1. Iran Exploits Iraq’s Financial System During U.S. Sanctions

Iraq’s financial system enables billions in dollar flows to Iran, with currency auctions reaching $81 billion in 2024. U.S. President Donald Trump reinstated “maximum pressure” sanctions to block Iran’s access to Iraq’s banking system. Iran bypasses sanctions through trade networks, inflated invoices, and illicit currency transfers. Iraq’s dependence on Iranian gas complicates enforcement, risking economic instability. Despite official crackdowns, smuggling networks persist, undermining financial security and fueling concerns over Iraq’s economic independence from Iran’s influence.

  1. U.S. Exports To Iraq Drop 26.4% 

U.S. exports to Iraq fell 26.4% in 2024, reaching $1.66 billion from $2.255 billion in 2023. Automotive and transport equipment exports grew 42% to $513 million, but declines in aircraft parts and grain exports drove the overall drop. Iraqi exports to the U.S. fell 12% to $7.4 billion, mostly crude oil. Total trade declined to $9 billion, with Iraq maintaining a $5.7 billion surplus, reflecting continued export dominance despite the overall reduction in trade exchange.

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Yemen

  1. Yemen Captures Two Iranian Sailors Smuggling Weapons for Houthis

Yemeni authorities arrested two Iranian sailors involved in arms smuggling for Houthis while attempting illegal entry into Yemen. Initial investigations revealed that both detainees worked for Houthis and admitted to transporting illicit shipments through Djibouti, then to Mocha’s coast. The operation is part of Houthi-led smuggling networks supported and financed by Iran, facilitating arms and prohibited materials transfer.

  1. Rights Groups Demand Houthi Release of International Aid Workers

A total of 24 human rights organizations called on Houthis to immediately release UN employees detained in Houthi prisons. On May 31, 2024, Houthi forces conducted raids, arresting 13 UN staff and at least 50 aid workers from Yemeni and international organizations. In a joint statement, the groups accused Houthis of a systematic crackdown on civil society and the violent targeting of human rights and humanitarian workers under fabricated espionage charges.

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GULF NATIONS

  1. Qatar Records $5 Billion Trade Surplus In December 2025

Qatar’s trade surplus reached 18.3 billion riyals ($5 billion) in December 2024, with exports at 31.19 billion riyals ($8.55 billion) and imports at 12.76 billion riyals ($3.50 billion). The fourth-quarter budget surplus hit 930 million riyals ($255 million), based on a $73.9 per barrel oil price, with funds allocated to debt reduction. Government tenders totaled 6.4 billion riyals, with 4.8 billion awarded to local firms, reinforcing economic growth and increased business activity.

  1. Aramco Raises Oil Prices To Asia To Highest In Two Years

Saudi Arabia raised Arab Light crude prices for Asia by $2.40 per barrel, the biggest increase since 2022, exceeding market expectations. Strict U.S. sanctions on Russian oil drove Asian refiners to secure Middle Eastern crude as the nearest alternative. Refining margins improved as some refineries cut production. Brent crude peaked at $80 before dropping to $75. OPEC+ will ease production limits in April but resisted external pressure to lower prices, maintaining its current output strategy.

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EGYPT 

  1. Egypt Warns Israel Against Implementing Gaza Displacement Plan

Egypt warned of the grave consequences of Israeli government statements on initiating a plan to displace Palestinians from Gaza. The Foreign Ministry denounced the move as a blatant violation of international law and Palestinian rights, demanding accountability. Egypt stressed that such actions undermine ceasefire negotiations, fuel renewed conflict, and threaten regional stability. Cairo reiterated its firm rejection of these irresponsible statements, warning of their potential to destabilize peace efforts.

  1. Egypt Signs $3 Billion LNG Deal for 60 Shipments in 2025

Egypt signed two agreements with Shell and TotalEnergies worth $3 billion to purchase 60 liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments for 2025. The deals aim to meet domestic energy demand during declining local gas production. supplies, which hit a seven-year low in September 2024. The drop resulted from lower output at the Zohr field and rising energy consumption, according to the Joint Organizations Data Initiative (JODI).

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