★ IRAN
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Vows to Destroy Tel Aviv, Flatten Israel
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard senior advisor Ebrahim Jabari declared that “True Promise 3” would be executed to destroy Tel Aviv and flatten Israel completely. His statement was made during the “Great Prophet” drills conducted by the Revolutionary Guard and Basij forces in Birjand, South Khorasan Province. Escalating tensions between Iran and Israel have fueled concerns over a potential direct military confrontation in the region.
Iranian President Open to Talks, But Trump Tightens Pressure
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Tehran is willing to negotiate but not under extreme pressure imposed by Donald Trump’s administration. Speaking at a meeting with Iranian elites in western Tehran Province, Pezeshkian emphasized Iran’s stance on U.S. negotiations. He reiterated that Tehran remains open to discussions, but only under fair and acceptable conditions. His remarks highlight ongoing diplomatic tensions and challenges in resuming U.S.-Iran talks.
Iran Urges Qatar to Release Oil Funds, Resist Trump’s Pressure
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei called on Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to resist U.S. pressure and release Iranian oil revenues frozen in Doha. During talks in Tehran, Khamenei emphasized that Iran still expects Qatar to take action, describing it as a “friendly and brotherly nation” despite unresolved issues. The remarks, reported by Bloomberg, highlight Tehran’s push for financial relief during escalating U.S. economic restrictions.
Iran Sees Sharp Surge in Political Executions, Rights Groups Warn
Two human rights organizations reported that Iran executed at least 975 people in 2024, describing it as a “horrific escalation” in using capital punishment for political repression. According to Iran Human Rights (Norway) and France-based “Together Against the Death Penalty”, many executions were linked to drug offenses, murder, rape, and vague charges like “corruption on earth” and “rebellion”, often targeting dissidents. The report urged the UN to end counter-narcotics cooperation with Iran, claiming Tehran exploits it to justify oppression.
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★ SYRIA
After 33 Years, Syrian Jews Return to Damascus Under Official Invitation
Syrian Rabbi Youssef Hamra returned to Damascus after 33 years, visiting Jobar Synagogue and historic Jewish sites under official invitation. The delegation sought to reclaim properties, reconnect with heritage, and engage with Syria’s new government. Since 1992, over 5,000 Jews left Syria, reducing the ancient Jewish community from 30,000 to a few. Prior visits in 2021 and 2023 saw warm local receptions and government-supported synagogue restorations, reflecting Syria’s growing openness to its Jewish heritage.
Five Killed in War Remnants Explosion in Syria’s Idlib
An explosion from war remnants in Al-Nayrab, Idlib, killed five civilians, including a man, woman, and child, and injured a young girl. The Syrian Civil Defense continues search-and-rescue operations during widespread destruction. Unexploded ordnance poses a daily threat, hindering displaced civilians’ return, worsening humanitarian needs, and endangering lives across Syria. Immediate clearance efforts are essential to ensure safety, stability, and reconstruction in war-affected regions.
Syria Faces Economic Collapse While Boosting Energy Production
Syria lost $800 billion in GDP, setting progress back 40 years, with GDP dropping 50% and poverty surging to 90%. Energy production declined 80%, damaging 70% of power plants and cutting national grid capacity by 75%, requiring 55 years for economic recovery at 1.3% growth. Meanwhile, Oil Minister Ghiath Diab inaugurated the “Tayyas 5” gas well in Homs, producing 130,000 cubic meters daily to stabilize electricity supplies. Despite efforts, Syria’s energy crisis continues during severe economic challenges and urgent reform needs.
Syria Urges Sanctions Removal and Recovery of Frozen European Assets
Syrian Economy Minister Basil Abdel Hanin demanded the EU release Syria’s frozen assets and lift sanctions to boost economic recovery. The government plans a free-market shift, reducing intervention and enhancing local industries for exports. Over 100 investors returned in January 2025 for post-war reconstruction. U.S. and EU eased sanctions temporarily, supporting humanitarian aid. Syria’s December 2024 transition ended Baath Party rule, dissolving militias and security forces, implementing economic reforms, and restructuring governance for stability.
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★ TURKEY
Fidan Engages in High-Level Diplomatic Talks at G20 Summit
Turkish FM Hakan Fidan met Russian FM Sergey Lavrov and Chinese FM Wang Yi at the G20 Summit in South Africa, discussing key global issues. With Lavrov, he assessed diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war, including Riyadh peace talks and agreements on diplomatic resolutions. In talks with Wang Yi, discussions covered Türkiye-China bilateral ties, trade opportunities, and regional issues, including Syria and Gaza. Both meetings addressed global security challenges and geopolitical stability concerns.
Türkiye Rejects SDF Integration, Calls for Unified Syrian Army
Türkiye’s Defense Ministry stressed that SDF, YPG, and PKK must disarm, with foreign leaders leaving Syria, and militants integrating into a unified Syrian army. Türkiye rejects independent military or political entities, affirming cooperation with Syria’s new leadership for stability. FM Hakan Fidan stated Türkiye may reconsider its military presence if PKK elements are eliminated.
Türkiye Eliminates 31 PKK Terrorists in Iraq, Syria in One Week
Türkiye confirmed eliminating 31 PKK terrorists in Iraq and Syria last week, bringing the 2025 total to 408. Operations targeted PKK strongholds, including Qandil Mountains, with airstrikes and Claw-Lock raids. Five militants surrendered, while Türkiye tightened border security, stopping 720 illegal crossers and blocking 9,754 entries. The “Terror-Free Initiative” urges PKK disarmament, rejecting negotiations. Türkiye also monitors reports of YPG joining Syria’s army, insisting militants disarm and integrate under Syria’s Ministry of Defense without independent factions.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Israel Receives Hostage Remains, Ceasefire Deal Faces Uncertainty
Hamas handed over four Israeli hostage bodies to the Red Cross in Khan Younis, fulfilling phase one of the ceasefire agreement. Israel identified Oded Lifshitz, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas, but Shiri Bibas’s body was missing, violating the deal. IDF forensic experts couldn’t confirm the fourth body’s identity, raising doubts about the hostage exchange’s integrity. Sixty-seven hostages remain in Gaza, including 35 confirmed dead, while six captives are set for release Saturday. The truce’s second phase, aimed at ending the war, remains uncertain.
Israel Bus Bombings Prompt Netanyahu’s West Bank Military Response
Three simultaneous explosions targeted buses in Bat Yam, near Tel Aviv, while police defused multiple explosive devices. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered an intensified military operation in the West Bank, targeting suspected militants. Security forces heightened measures at Ben Gurion Airport and Jerusalem’s light rail to prevent further attacks. Defense Minister Israel Katz labeled it a major terrorist attack, linking perpetrators to West Bank refugee camps, escalating regional tensions and security concerns.
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★ LEBANON
Lebanon Needs $1 Billion for Reconstruction After Israeli War
Lebanon launched reconstruction plans, but funding depends on international aid, financial reforms, and UN Resolution 1701 implementation. World Bank estimates $11 billion in war losses, with $700 million needed for infrastructure repairs and $35 million for debris removal. 51,000 homes were destroyed, displacing 100,000 residents. A donor-backed reconstruction fund is required, ensuring transparency and economic reforms to secure financial support and rebuild critical infrastructure for long-term stability and recovery.
Israel Strikes Smuggling Routes Between Syria and Lebanon
Israel launched airstrikes on illegal border crossings in Wadi Khaled and western Homs, disabling Al-Waouiyat crossing and damaging Lebanese properties. The attack followed smuggling convoy movements from Syria to Lebanon, causing injuries. Israel has not confirmed responsibility but continues targeting Hezbollah’s arms smuggling routes. Since early 2025, the Syrian Observatory documented 12 Israeli airstrikes on weapons depots, military sites, and border crossings, escalating regional tensions during ongoing security threats.
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★IRAQ
Iranian Gas Halt Threatens Iraq’s Power Grid Stability
Iraq’s Finance Committee Chairman Atwan Al-Atwani warned that halting Iranian gas imports risks collapsing the national power grid. In a meeting with Electricity Minister Ziyad Ali Fadel, officials discussed boosting energy production, revenue growth, and transitioning to solar power. The ministry targets four trillion dinars in 2025 without raising consumer costs. Challenges include weak billing collection, rising electricity demand, and reliance on Iranian gas, making Iraq the primary victim of supply disruptions, not Iran.
Report Links “Ahl al-Kahf” Militia to American Teacher’s Assassination
FBI evidence suggests Iran-backed “Ahl al-Kahf” militia orchestrated the 2022 assassination of American teacher Stephen Troell in Baghdad. The attack was reportedly retaliation for Qassem Soleimani’s death, involving Quds Force operatives and Iraqi militias. Investigations revealed plans for multiple kidnappings and assassinations targeting U.S. citizens. In 2023, an Iraqi court sentenced one Iranian and four Iraqis to life imprisonment. Troell was fatally shot while driving with his family near Baghdad’s Karrada market.
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★YEMEN
Yemen Urges Lebanon to Arrest Houthi Leaders Attending Nasrallah’s Funeral
Yemeni Information Minister Muammar Al-Eryani urged Lebanon to arrest and extradite Houthi leaders attending Hezbollah’s former Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah’s funeral. In a statement on X, Al-Eryani confirmed that Iran-backed Houthi officials traveled from Sanaa to Beirut, reaffirming their allegiance to Iran’s regional agenda. He accused the Houthis of prioritizing Tehran’s interests over Yemen, worsening war, poverty, and humanitarian suffering through their destructive policies. The request escalates regional tensions over Iran’s influence in Yemen.
EU’s “Aspides” Mission Protects 650 Commercial Ships in Red Sea
During its first operational year, the European Union’s naval mission “Aspides” safeguarded over 650 commercial vessels crossing the Red Sea. In a statement on X, the EU naval force highlighted its commitment to securing vital maritime routes in one of the world’s most strategic waterways. The mission, operating west of Yemen, plays a crucial role in protecting global trade and ensuring maritime security during ongoing regional tensions.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Putin Thanks Mohammed Bin Salman, Strengthens Russia-Saudi Cooperation
Russian President Vladimir Putin called Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, thanking him for hosting U.S.-Russia negotiations in Riyadh. He reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to OPEC+ for global oil market stability. Talks between U.S. and Russian officials established a consultation mechanism to resolve the Ukraine conflict and enhance diplomatic and economic cooperation. Discussions lasted over four hours, addressing diplomatic missions’ restoration and a possible Trump-Putin meeting, though no date was confirmed.
Faisal Bin Farhan Engages in High-Level G20 Diplomatic Talks
Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan met with counterparts at the G20 Summit in South Africa, discussing bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and regional stability. He held talks with British, Chinese, French, and Australian foreign ministers, addressing trade, security, and geopolitical developments. The summit, marked by tensions over the Ukraine war and trade disputes, faces growing divisions since 2022. Washington’s absence due to diplomatic disagreements challenges reaching a consensus among G20 members.
Saudi Arabia Launches Riyal Symbol to Enhance Financial Identity
King Salman approved the Saudi riyal symbol to strengthen its financial identity globally. Central Bank Governor Ayman Al-Sayari stated the initiative enhances the riyal’s market presence, gradually integrating it into financial and commercial transactions. Designed with Arabic calligraphy, it reflects Saudi heritage and economic influence. The move aligns with Vision 2030, reinforcing the kingdom’s financial stability and global credibility. This step highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthening its monetary system and economic position among leading global economies.
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★ EGYPT & North Africa
Egypt and Spain Reject Trump’s Palestinian Displacement Proposal
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez rejected any attempts to displace Palestinians to neighboring countries, responding to U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal. In a joint statement concluding El-Sisi’s visit to Spain, both leaders reaffirmed Palestinians’ right to remain on their land, emphasizing their firm stance on protecting Palestinian sovereignty and stability in the region.
Egypt’s Exports to Saudi Arabia Rise 25.9% in 2024
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi arrived in Saudi Arabia for an official visit, coinciding with economic reports on bilateral trade growth. According to Egypt’s Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics, Egypt’s exports to Saudi Arabia reached $3.4 billion in 2024, marking a 25.9% increase from $2.7 billion in 2023. Imports from Saudi Arabia also surged to $7.9 billion in 2024, compared to $5.5 billion in 2023, reflecting a 43.6% rise in bilateral trade.
Lavrov and Algerian FM Discuss Middle East, Sahara, and Sahel Issues
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf to discuss Middle East, Sahara, and Sahel developments. The talks took place on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Johannesburg. Russia’s Foreign Ministry stated that both diplomats exchanged views on global and regional issues, focusing on key security and geopolitical challenges. Their discussions emphasized cooperation in addressing ongoing conflicts and regional stability concerns.
Sudan Recalls Ambassador, Condemns Kenya for Hosting Parallel Government
Sudan’s Foreign Ministry condemned Kenya’s support for a parallel government, calling it a threat to national security. The statement followed Kenya’s hosting of rival Sudanese factions, which Sudan claims reinforces Rapid Support Forces (RSF) activities. The ministry declared that Kenyan President William Ruto is complicit in aggression against Sudan, prioritizing business interests over historical ties. Sudan also recalled its ambassador from Nairobi, escalating diplomatic tensions between both nations.
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