★ SYRIA
U.S. Questions Al-Jul ani’s Legitimacy While Supporting Israel’s Syria Presence
Washington has not recognized Al-Julani as Syria’s president, citing concerns over his jihadist past and commitment to democracy. The U.S. warns against Syria becoming a terrorism hub and foreign actors exploiting instability. Meanwhile, Israel will maintain its buffer zone in Syria with U.S. backing, citing security threats from Al-Julani’s regime. The IDF plans extended operations in Jenin and will retain five key positions in Lebanon beyond February 18, ensuring security against Hezbollah across multiple fronts.
Turkish, Saudi, Lebanese Officials Join Syrian Minister In Paris Conference
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani attended a Paris conference, marking his first European visit since Bashar Al-Assad’s removal. Ministers from Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Lebanon discussed stabilizing Syria’s fragile transition. France aimed to coordinate efforts for Syria’s security, economic support, and accountability. EU divisions persisted over lifting sanctions, complicating border negotiations with Turkey. The U.S. maintained low-level representation, while Turkey raised security concerns over Kurdish groups. Humanitarian conditions worsened in northeastern Syria due to U.S. aid cuts, with financial commitments postponed to Brussels in March.
Syrian National Dialogue Committee Excludes Military Factions, SDF Rejects Decision
Syria’s National Dialogue Committee confirmed no set date for its conference, prioritizing public participation while excluding military factions, including the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Committee member Huda Al-Atassi emphasized inclusivity, rejecting sectarian quotas. Kurdish leader Saleh Muslim criticized the decision, claiming the committee lacks diverse representation, warning SDF won’t recognize conference decisions. Spokesman Hassan Al-Daghim stated invitations won’t be based on religion, sect, or party affiliation. The conference, delayed twice, will host 1,000 participants individually, with ongoing debates over inclusivity. Transition leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa pledged a constitutional declaration, an interim government next month, and legislative elections within four years.
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★ EGYPT & North Africa
Egypt And UAE Discuss Gas Cooperation And Petroleum Investments
Egypt’s Petroleum Minister Karim Badawi met UAE’s Industry Minister and ADNOC CEO during the World Government Summit in Dubai. Talks focused on securing natural gas supplies and exploring investment opportunities in Egypt’s gas exploration sector. Discussions included potential ADNOC investments as part of its expansion strategy in Egypt.
Sudan Informs African Union Army Has Secured National Control
Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Yusuf sent a letter to African Peace and Security Council ministers confirming the army’s full territorial control. The letter stated that Sudanese forces and Juba Agreement-aligned factions successfully repelled Rapid Support Forces attacks. Sudan urged the African Union to reassess its stance, calling for Sudan’s reinstatement in the continental organization and resumption of its African diplomatic role.
Russia-Sudan Agreement: Naval Refueling Base In Exchange For Weapons
Russia and Sudan reached a deal granting Moscow a naval refueling station on the Red Sea in exchange for advanced weaponry. The agreement strengthens military cooperation and secures Russia’s strategic foothold in the region. It includes modern arms supplies to support Sudanese forces during ongoing internal tensions.
Tunisia Records $531 Million Trade Deficit In January 2025
Tunisia’s National Institute of Statistics reported a 1.7 billion dinar ($531.2 million) trade deficit in January 2025, up from 577 million dinars ($180.3 million) in January 2024. Exports reached 5 billion dinars, slightly down from 5.1 billion dinars in January 2024, while imports surged to 6.7 billion dinars, up from 5.7 billion dinars last year. This widening deficit reflects increased import expenditures outpacing export performance.
Libya Drills 14 Oil And Gas Wells During 2024
Libyan authorities confirmed drilling 14 oil and gas wells and conducting maintenance on 213 wells throughout 2024. The National Drilling Company completed these operations, but no production estimates or drilling locations were disclosed. Meanwhile, the National Oil Corporation reviewed 2024 projects, discussed 2025 development plans, and assessed the required budget for implementation.
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★ Yemen
Houthi Threatens New Attacks If Trump Enforces Palestinian Displacement
Abdul Malik Al-Houthi vowed to launch missile, drone, and naval attacks if the Trump administration proceeds with displacing Palestinians from Gaza. Despite halting Red Sea and Israel-targeted attacks for a month, he warned of immediate military action if Israel or the U.S. launched an offensive. His threats come during global and Arab rejection of the displacement plan. escalating regional tensions.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Hamas Confirms Hostage Release as Israel Threatens Renewed Fighting
Hamas committed to releasing three Israeli hostages Saturday, contingent on receiving humanitarian aid, including medical supplies and heavy equipment. Israel warned that failure to comply would terminate the ceasefire. Defense Minister Israel Katz threatened intensified military action if hostages weren’t freed. Prime Minister Netanyahu reaffirmed the ultimatum, echoing U.S. President Trump’s warning of resumed fighting. The Israeli military is preparing for potential operations in Gaza as Hamas signals possible delays in the scheduled hostage release.
U.S. Sanctions ICC Chief Over Netanyahu, Gallant Arrest Warrants
The U.S. sanctioned ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan, freezing his assets and barring entry after he sought arrest warrants for Israeli leaders. President Trump’s executive order accused the ICC of abusing power and politically targeting Israel and the U.S. Republican lawmakers pushed for sanctions, but Senate Democrats blocked a related bill. The ICC also pursued Hamas leaders, later dropping charges against some after their deaths. Israel rejects the court’s accusations as politically motivated and biased.
Israeli-Palestinian Tensions Escalate as Gaza Rocket Misfires, IDF Launches Strikes
A misfired rocket from Gaza killed a 14-year-old boy in the Al-Bureij refugee camp, prompting an Israeli airstrike. Palestinian sources claimed the rocket was from Israeli missile remnants. Meanwhile, Israeli forces shot dead a Palestinian near an IDF base in Nablus and destroyed a bomb-laden car in Jenin. Clashes in Nur Shams camp left three gunmen dead. Under “Operation Iron Wall,” over 60 militants have been killed and 210 arrested. Israel warns of intensified military action if ceasefire violations persist.
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★ IRAN
Iran Asserts Ability To Build Nuclear Sites After Any Attack
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that enemies might target nuclear facilities but cannot prevent Iran from constructing new sites. His remarks followed U.S. intelligence reports predicting a potential Israeli preemptive strike on Iran’s nuclear program by mid-year. Reports suggest such an attack could delay Iran’s nuclear progress for weeks or months but would escalate regional tensions.
Iran Resumes Missile Production With Chinese Components At Bandar Abbas
Ship tracking data confirmed two vessels carrying 1,000 tons of Chinese-made chemicals docked outside Bandar Abbas on Thursday. The Golbon departed China’s Taicang port three weeks ago, transporting sodium perchlorate, a key solid propellant ingredient for Iran’s medium-range missiles. This suggests Iran’s missile production has resumed despite last year’s Israeli strikes on major factories.
Iran’s Non-Oil Exports To UAE Reach $5.9 Billion In Ten Months
Iran exported $5.9 billion in non-oil goods to the UAE between March 20, 2024, and January 19, 2025, ranking it as Iran’s third-largest export destination. Meanwhile, the UAE was Iran’s top supplier, exporting $17 billion of goods during the same period. In August 2024, UAE Ambassador Saif Mohammed Al Zaabi stated that over 122,000 Iranian entrepreneurs operate in the UAE, reflecting strengthened bilateral trade relations in recent years.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkey Pushes Meteor Missile Plans During Greek Opposition and Political Tensions
Turkey advances Meteor missile acquisition for Eurofighter Typhoon jets despite Greek opposition while prioritizing domestic Gökhan missile production for defense independence. France rejects Greek efforts to block the sale, citing multinational agreements. Meanwhile, Turkish opposition debates early elections and presidential candidates, with Istanbul Mayor İmamoğlu and Ankara Mayor Yavaş emerging as potential challengers. Erdoğan strategizes reelection despite constitutional limits, as economic hardships fuel political uncertainty. The upcoming elections are expected to reshape Turkey’s political landscape.
Turkey to Receive 1.3 BCM Turkmen Gas via Iran Pipeline in 2025
Turkey will import 1.3 billion cubic meters of Turkmen gas through Iran’s pipeline, ensuring energy diversification and regional supply stability. Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar emphasized Turkmenistan’s strategic importance in meeting Turkey and Europe’s rising gas demands. The gas will enter via Turkey’s Gurbulak point. Turkey is advancing energy exports, negotiating new deals, and planning a Caspian pipeline to enhance capacity, reinforcing its role as a key regional gas hub.
Turkey, Pakistan Strengthen Economic and Strategic Ties
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif agreed to enhance trade to $5 billion, signing 24 agreements in defense, energy, education, and healthcare. Erdoğan reaffirmed support for Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts and Kashmir’s resolution under UN frameworks. He praised Pakistan’s stance on Turkish Cypriots and encouraged Turkish investments. The visit, part of Erdoğan’s Asian tour, aims to deepen economic ties and strategic cooperation, reinforcing Turkey’s commitment to regional stability and diplomatic collaboration.
Türkiye’s Current Account Deficit Drops, Strengthening Economic Outlook
Türkiye’s current account deficit fell to $10 billion in 2024 from $39.9 billion in 2023, reflecting improved financial stability. December’s deficit reached $4.65 billion, surpassing forecasts, while the non-energy and gold balance showed a $2.46 billion surplus. Financing came from $4.7 billion in direct investments, $11.7 billion in portfolio inflows, and $26.2 billion in loans. The deficit-to-GDP ratio dropped to 0.7%, reinforcing macroeconomic stability, reducing external debt reliance, and boosting Türkiye’s global economic credibility.
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★ LEBANON
Lebanon Blocks Iranian Flight Over Israeli Allegations of Hezbollah Smuggling
Lebanon denied an Iranian flight permission to land in Beirut after Israel accused Iran of using civilian flights to smuggle cash to Hezbollah. Dozens of Lebanese passengers were stranded in Tehran, while Hezbollah supporters protested near Beirut airport. The IDF claimed Iran’s Revolutionary Guards were funding Hezbollah’s rebuilding despite the ceasefire. Israeli officials alerted a U.S.-led oversight committee, vowing to prevent Hezbollah’s financial strengthening. Some transfers reportedly succeeded, raising security concerns for Israel’s government.
Lebanon Rejects Israeli Plan to Stay in South, U.S. Supports Move
Despite U.S. backing, Lebanese Speaker Nabih Berri rejected Israel’s plan to remain in five southern positions beyond the February 18 withdrawal deadline. Under the ceasefire deal, Lebanon’s army and UN peacekeepers were to replace Israeli forces, with Hezbollah withdrawing. Israel claims Lebanon failed to meet obligations, justifying its extended presence. The U.S. views Israeli control as preventing Hezbollah’s resurgence. UN officials urged both sides to honor commitments, as Israel launched airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon.
Israeli Strikes Hit Southern Lebanon as France Proposes Peacekeeping Plan
Israel launched airstrikes on Hezbollah sites in southern Lebanon, claiming they housed weapons and posed security threats. Strikes targeted areas near Zibqin and between Deir Siryan and Yohmor. France proposed deploying UN peacekeepers, including French troops, to replace Israeli forces and ensure withdrawal by the ceasefire deadline. Lebanese Speaker Nabih Berri rejected Israel’s plan to remain in five positions. Defense Minister Michel Mansi accused Israel of obstructing UN Resolution 1701’s implementation, affirming Lebanon’s commitment to sovereignty.
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★IRAQ
Iraqi PM Strengthens Industrial and Energy Ties with Czech Companies
Iraqi PM Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani met Czech firms Aero Vodochody and UNIS to discuss aircraft maintenance, oil, and gas projects. Talks focused on localizing industries, enhancing Iraq’s aviation sector, and expanding energy cooperation. Al-Sudani emphasized Iraq’s commitment to attracting foreign investments, ensuring a stable business environment, and fostering technology transfer. The discussions align with Iraq’s economic strategy to modernize infrastructure, develop domestic manufacturing, and establish long-term industrial and energy sustainability through strategic international partnerships.
Iraq Negotiates Militia Disarmament During U.S. Pressure and Resistance
Iraq’s government is negotiating militia disarmament, focusing on drones, under U.S. pressure, but Iranian-backed factions refuse integration into security forces. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani insists on merging armed groups into state institutions, yet ongoing resistance complicates efforts to establish sovereignty. Analysts suggest integration could shield militias from U.S. strikes, but negotiations remain stalled. The government faces mounting challenges balancing security, political stability, and foreign influence while working to unify Iraq’s armed forces under state control.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Kuwait Thwarts Chinese Cybercrime Network Targeting Banks and Telecoms
Kuwaiti authorities dismantled a Chinese cybercrime network that launched phishing scams impersonating banks and telecom firms to steal sensitive data. Investigators traced cyberattacks to a vehicle in Farwaniya, seizing hacking devices and arresting suspects using fraudulent identities. The Ministry of Interior reaffirmed its commitment to cybersecurity, enhancing defenses against financial fraud and digital threats. The operation highlights Kuwait’s proactive measures to safeguard national infrastructure from cyberattacks and strengthen security protocols against evolving cybercriminal tactics.
Saudi Budget Deficit of $30 Billion and Growth in Non-Oil Revenues
Saudi Arabia’s 2024 budget showed a deficit of 115.6 billion riyals ($30.82 billion) with revenues totaling 1.25 trillion riyals. Expenditures reached 1.37 trillion riyals, while the fourth-quarter deficit was 57.7 billion riyals. Non-oil revenues grew by 21% in Q4, totaling 132 billion riyals, supporting economic diversification. The municipal services sector saw a 51% increase in annual spending, reflecting growth in infrastructure and public services, with total public debt reaching 1.25 trillion riyals.
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