★ SYRIA
Julani’s Islamist constitutional declaration Cements Absolute Rule, Spurs Instability
Self-proclaimed Syrian president Abu Mohamad al Julani (Ahmad Al Sharaa) has imposed a constitutional declaration that eliminates elections, decentralization, and opposition, consolidating all power under his presidency. Syrian experts warn this document is not transitional but a permanent framework ensuring Julani’s indefinite rule. The so-called “People’s Committee” serves as a rubber-stamp legislature, while the National Security Council remains fully under his control. The constitution criminalizes praise of the former Assad regime and enshrines Islamic law without specifying which interpretation, allowing for ideological manipulation. While it claims to uphold rights and freedoms, experts argue these provisions are meaningless, as no mechanisms exist to enforce them. The military is now designated as a “professional national institution,” banning independent armed groups and placing all security forces under Julani’s authority.
Eyewitness, Intelligence, and Satellite Images Confirm Syrian Coast Mass Graves Concealment
Israeli “Alma” Research and Education Center published a report on March 11, 2025, citing eyewitness accounts of Julani’s forces removing bodies, intelligence sources confirming he personally authorized the cover-up, and satellite imagery showing disturbances at massacre sites, detailing the recent massacres against Alawites in Syria’s coastal areas. Witnesses described regime forces clearing streets ahead of a UN inspection, discarding bodies and erasing signs of violence, while intelligence sources verified orders came directly from Julani. Satellite imagery revealed evidence of mass graves and altered terrain at key massacre locations, reinforcing accounts of systematic concealment efforts.
Israel Hits Palestinian Militant Hub in Damascus Airstrike
An Israeli airstrike on a residential building in Damascus’s Dummar project injured three people, including a seriously wounded elderly woman, and caused severe structural damage, partially impacting two adjacent buildings and sparking a fire that was later extinguished. Israel released footage of the operation, confirming it targeted a Palestinian Islamic Jihad command center, vowing continued military action against terror groups in Syria. A Syrian security source told Reuters the strike was aimed at a Palestinian figure on the outskirts of the capital.
UN Security Council Condemns Syria Violence as Russia Warns of ‘Iraq Scenario’
The UN Security Council unanimously approved a joint statement drafted by Russia and the United States, condemning the large-scale sectarian violence in Syria’s coastal region and urging interim authorities to protect all Syrians regardless of ethnicity or religion. The decision follows deadly clashes in Tartus and Latakia, where over 1,000 people were killed, including entire Alawite families, according to the UN Human Rights Office. During a closed-door session, Russian envoy Vassily Nebenzia strongly criticized Syria’s new leadership, comparing the situation to the 1994 Rwandan genocide and warning of an “Iraq scenario” characterized by prolonged instability. Moscow accused the new rulers of dismantling the Syrian army and exacerbating the country’s fragile security situation. The statement, formally adopted on Friday, calls for accountability for mass killings and warns against foreign interference that could further destabilize Syria. It reaffirms Syria’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, urging all states to respect these principles. The UN also emphasized the need to combat terrorism and the threat posed by foreign fighters, while Interim President Ahmed Sharaa vowed to hold perpetrators accountable, including members of his administration if necessary.
Druze Leadership in Syria Divided as Military Council Backs Al-Hijri
Syria’s Druze leadership remains split over its stance on the new government in Damascus. Sheikh Hikmat Al-Hijri rejected the administration, calling it extremist, while Sheikh Hammoud Al-Hanawi reaffirmed the Druze community’s Syrian identity and urged patience. As-Suwayda Governor Mustafa Bakour claimed that 90% of Druze clerics support an alliance with Damascus, clarifying that his discussions with Al-Hijri were a memorandum of understanding, not a formal pact. Meanwhile, the Suwayda Military Council fully backed Al-Hijri’s opposition, rejecting cooperation with Damascus unless guarantees were made to protect all Syrian communities. The council also demanded decentralization and pledged to defend Suwayda against any attacks. These divisions reflect the Druze community’s challenges in navigating Syria’s political transition. vigate political transition, national identity, and governance.
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★ ISRAEL
Israel Rejects UN Genocide Allegations, Calls Report ‘Blood Libel’
A UN investigative report accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, claiming systematic destruction of maternal healthcare and the use of sexual violence as a war tactic. The report alleges Israel deliberately targeted reproductive health services to prevent Palestinian births. Israel’s UN delegation dismissed the findings as biased and lacking credibility. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the report, calling the UN Human Rights Council an “antisemitic, terrorist-supporting body.” He criticized the report for ignoring Hamas’s October 7 attack and dismissed allegations of sexual violence as false. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar called the report “one of the worst blood libels,” accusing the UN of distorting reality.
Witkoff Plan: Hostage Deal Proposes 50-Day Ceasefire for Israeli Detainees
U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff proposed a deal for Hamas to release five Israeli hostages and several bodies in exchange for a 50-day ceasefire. The proposal, discussed during Witkoff’s visit to the region, aims to extend negotiations beyond April 20. Optimism surrounds the plan despite internal Israeli concerns over strategic concessions.
IDF Strikes Gaza Terror Squad in Central Strip
An Israeli Air Force craft targeted a terrorist squad in central Gaza on Thursday after they were spotted planting an explosive device near IDF forces. The military also struck militants involved in suspicious activity in Gaza’s Netzarim Corridor earlier this week. Palestinian reports indicate at least five casualties in recent Israeli airstrikes.
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★IRAN
Iran Sets Six Conditions for Constructive U.S. Talks
Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei outlined six conditions for potential negotiations with the U.S., emphasizing sanctions relief, no additional military demands, guarantees on deal adherence, abandonment of military threats, recognition of Iran’s nuclear rights, and restoration of lost trust. His remarks counter assumptions of outright rejection, signaling that talks remain possible under specific terms.
Iran Summons European Envoys Over UN Security Council Meeting
Iran summoned the ambassadors of Britain, France, and Germany to protest their cooperation with the U.S. following a closed UN Security Council session on Tehran’s nuclear program. Iranian officials condemned the meeting as politically motivated. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed ongoing talks with European mediators but insisted direct negotiations with Washington require equal terms and sanctions relief.
Iran Warns of Firm Response to Any Military Action
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Army Ground Forces Commander Brigadier General Kioumars Heydari warned that any military aggression against Iran would face a decisive response. Khamenei dismissed U.S. threats as ineffective, asserting Iran’s capability to retaliate. Heydari echoed this stance, vowing that any attacker would regret their actions. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized Iran’s “maximum resistance” strategy, insisting that Tehran will only negotiate on equal terms, free from sanctions and external pressure.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkish Officials Visit Damascus to Discuss YPG-Syria Agreement
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Defense Minister Yaşar Güler, and intelligence chief İbrahim Kalın arrived in Damascus to discuss the recent YPG-SDF integration deal with Syrian interim President Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, also known as Ahmed al-Sharaa. Türkiye reaffirmed its stance against terrorism and vowed to monitor the agreement’s implementation.
Türkiye Insists on Removal of Foreign Fighters from Syria
Türkiye reaffirmed its demand for terrorist disarmament and the expulsion of foreign fighters from Syria following an agreement between the new Syrian government and the Kurdish-led SDF. Ankara, closely aligned with interim President Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, also known as Ahmed al-Sharaa, continues to put pressure on a resolution to the YPG issue. President Erdoğan welcomed the deal as a step toward regional stability.
UK Offers Türkiye 40 Eurofighter Jets During Security Talks
The UK has formally proposed selling 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets to Türkiye, with Ankara reviewing the offer. The sale requires approval from Germany, Spain, Italy, and the UK. Defense ministers from both nations discussed regional security, European defense cooperation, and Ukraine, as Türkiye’s role in European security gains prominence amid shifting U.S. commitments.
Türkiye Seeks U.S. Sanctions Waiver Extension for Russian Gas Imports
Türkiye is working to extend a U.S. sanctions waiver allowing it to continue importing Russian natural gas, which is vital for its economy. The exemption granted in December 2024 for Gazprombank transactions is set to expire on March 20. Turkish Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek is expected to discuss the extension with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bissett this week.
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★ LEBANON
Israel Strikes Hezbollah Weapons Site as Tensions Escalate
The IDF targeted a Hezbollah site in Lebanon’s Bekaa region used for producing and storing strategic weapons. The strike follows increased cross-border hostilities since the February 18 end of the ceasefire. Meanwhile, Israel and Lebanon have initiated talks on border disputes and detainees, aiming to stabilize the region amid ongoing Israeli military operations.
Israel Returns Fifth Lebanese Prisoner During Border Talks with Lebanon
Israel released a fifth Lebanese detainee as part of goodwill gestures following rare negotiations with Lebanon on border delineation. The discussions in Naqoura with U.S. and French mediation led to working groups addressing disputed border areas and detainees. While Israel seeks normalization, Lebanon insists that talks remain within UN Resolution 1701.
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★YEMEN
U.S. Bans Oil Imports via Yemen’s Hodeidah Port Starting April 2
The U.S. Treasury announced a ban on importing refined petroleum products through Yemen’s Hodeidah port, effective April 2, aiming to cut off Houthi funding. The move follows the group’s resumption of attacks on Israeli-linked ships and its recent U.S. terrorist designation. Fuel shipments will now be redirected to government-controlled ports.
Houthis Develop Hydrogen-Powered Drones to Enhance Stealth and Range
The Houthis are advancing their drone capabilities by integrating hydrogen fuel cells, enabling longer flight ranges and greater stealth. A recent report revealed smuggled components from Chinese manufacturers, bypassing traditional Iranian support. These drones, harder to detect with infrared and acoustic sensors, pose an increased threat to Red Sea security and global shipping routes.
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★THE GULF
Bin Salman and Putin Discuss Efforts to Resolve Ukraine Crisis
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed diplomatic efforts to resolve the Ukraine crisis. Bin Salman reaffirmed Riyadh’s commitment to facilitating dialogue, while Putin praised Saudi mediation, including hosting U.S.-Russia talks. The leaders also emphasized ongoing cooperation within OPEC+ to maintain energy market stability.
Qatar Begins Supplying Natural Gas to Syria via Jordan
Qatar has started supplying Syria with natural gas through Jordan to address electricity shortages, following directives from Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The initiative, backed by the Qatar Fund for Development and the UNDP, aims to generate 400 MW of electricity in the first phase, benefiting multiple Syrian regions and supporting post-war reconstruction efforts.
UAE Makes Record $2 Billion Investment in Crypto Sector
Emirati firm MGX has invested $2 billion in the U.S. cryptocurrency market through Binance, marking the largest institutional investment in the sector. The deal strengthens digital assets and blockchain technology while expanding MGX’s presence in AI and digital economies. Backed by Mubadala and G42, MGX aims to grow its assets to $100 billion, advancing UAE’s tech leadership.
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