★IRAN
Trump Issues Two-Month Deadline for New Nuclear Deal with Iran
President Donald Trump has set a two-month deadline for Iran to reach a new nuclear agreement, according to sources. Trump’s letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei stresses the urgency of a diplomatic resolution, with threats of alternative actions if unsuccessful. The deadline aligns with warnings from European powers about the reimposition of sanctions if no deal is reached by mid-year. As Iran’s nuclear program advances, the situation remains tense, with concerns over military action if diplomacy fails.
Report: U.S. Targets Iranian Leaders in Yemen
A report revealed a list of key Iranian Revolutionary Guard leaders who may be targeted in U.S. strikes in Yemen. Among the top targets is Abdul Reza Shahlai, a senior figure in the Revolutionary Guard, with a $15 million reward for his capture. Other potential targets include Esmail Qaani, the head of the Quds Force, and Falah Zadeh, deputy commander of the Quds Force. The U.S. also considers leaders in the Iranian Air Force, responsible for missile attacks, as possible targets. These strikes are part of ongoing efforts to counter Iranian influence in the region.
U.S. Offers $15 Million for Information on Chinese Technology Suppliers to Iran
The U.S. Department of State’s Rewards for Justice program is offering up to $15 million for information on four Chinese individuals involved in supplying the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) with U.S.-controlled technology. The accused—Liu Baoxia, Li Yongxin, Yong Yiwa, and Zhong Yanlai—are alleged to have used front companies to illegally ship U.S.-made electronic components to Iran. These components were reportedly used in the production of drones and ballistic missile systems.
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★YEMEN
Houthi Forces Target U.S. Aircraft Carrier for Fourth Time
Houthi forces launched a missile attack on the U.S. aircraft carrier Harry Truman in the Red Sea, marking the fourth assault in 72 hours. In response, U.S. airstrikes targeted Houthi positions in Yemen, including sites near the Ministry of Communications and the Postal Authority in Sana’a. Additional strikes hit locations in Saada, Al-Bayda, and Al-Hudaydah, with witnesses confirming attacks near Sana’a airport. U.S. sources reported further strikes on Houthi warehouses and strongholds, leading to the death of 16 fighters. Meanwhile, Houthi forces launched a missile toward Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv, which was intercepted by Israel’s defense systems. U.S. President Donald Trump vowed continued heavy strikes against the Houthi military, with Pentagon officials confirming sustained operations to weaken their capabilities during ongoing accusations of Iranian support.
Reactions to U.S. Strikes on Houthi Militias
The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson condemned the U.S. airstrikes on Yemen, which resulted in the deaths of civilians and the destruction of infrastructure, describing them as war crimes. He emphasized that the timing of the U.S. strikes, coinciding with the Israeli escalation in Gaza, reveals a joint conspiracy between the United States and Israel against the Islamic nation. Meanwhile, Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council Chairman Rashad Al-Alimi stressed the need for sanctions against the Houthis to dry up their funding and address their violations. The Houthis also confirmed they would continue blocking Israeli maritime traffic until the Gaza blockade is lifted.
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★ TURKIYE
$8 Billion Rescue: İmamoğlu Arrest Triggers Political Storm and Lira Collapse
Turkish authorities detained Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and over 100 others in investigations into corruption, tender manipulation, and PKK ties. Prosecutors accuse İmamoğlu of leading a criminal organization and financial misconduct, while his university degree was revoked over alleged irregularities, potentially affecting his election eligibility. Officials assert judicial independence, while opposition figures call the move politically motivated, drawing international scrutiny. The arrests triggered a sharp economic reaction, with the Turkish lira plunging to 42 per dollar, prompting the Central Bank to inject $5 billion through state-owned banks. Despite this, the Istanbul Stock Exchange dropped 5%, leading to trading halts. Analysts link the market turmoil to investor uncertainty, while Treasury Minister Mehmet Şimşek insists Türkiye’s economic program remains stable. However, capital outflows persist, and volatility continues, with officials working to restore confidence during concerns over further fluctuations.
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★ ISRAEL
IDF Targets Hamas, Islamic Jihad in Gaza; Katz Warns of ‘Total Destruction’
The IDF launched targeted ground operations in central and southern Gaza, with Defense Minister Israel Katz warning that Hamas would face total destruction if it refused to release hostages. The operations aim to expand the security zone and deploy the Golani Brigade. At the same time, Israeli forces struck Hamas and Islamic Jihad military sites in northern Gaza, after detecting preparations for attacks on Israeli territory. These actions are part of the ongoing campaign to neutralize militant threats in the region. Katz issued an ultimatum to Gaza residents, threatening severe action if hostages are not freed.
Heavy Israeli Airstrikes Hit Gaza, 15 Bombings Reported
Israeli airstrikes continued Thursday, with 15 bombings across Gaza, targeting homes in Khan Yunis and Rafah, killing at least 33 people. A strike in northern Gaza killed 11. The bombing follows Wednesday’s artillery attacks on Gaza’s Zeitoun neighborhood and northern Beit Hanoun. Over 470 Palestinians have been killed since Tuesday, with many fatalities among women and children. Meanwhile, Israel resumed ground operations, aiming to create a buffer zone between Gaza’s northern and southern regions.
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★ IRAQ
Muqtada al-Sadr Bans Followers from “Brandishing Weapons” in Iraq
Muqtada al-Sadr, leader of the Sadrist Movement, has instructed his militia, Saraya al-Salam, not to brandish weapons within Iraq or abroad. His aide, Tahsin al-Hamidiawi, emphasized that the directive includes avoiding sectarian tensions and advised turning to religious scholars if Iraq faces external aggression. Additionally, the Iraqi Navy intercepted an unidentified ship suspected of smuggling fuel in southern Iraqi waters, with a crew of Iranian, Indian, and Iraqi nationals on board.
Iraqi Factions Relocate Headquarters During Threats of Israeli Strikes
Iran-backed factions in Iraq, including Kata’ib Hezbollah and Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq, have secretly relocated key headquarters and weapons depots due to fears of Israeli or U.S. strikes. The moves, coordinated with the Iraqi government, follow warnings from Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein about Israel targeting Iraq. Diplomatic efforts are underway to safeguard the country from immediate threats.
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★ SYRIA
.Advanced Talks Between Damascus and SDF Cover Military, Political, and Economic Issues
Advanced negotiations between Damascus and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have progressed, covering military, political, and economic arrangements. The meeting, led by SDF commander Mazloum Abdi and the Syrian negotiation committee, discussed the constitutional declaration, the need for inclusive representation, and a nationwide ceasefire. They also reviewed the formation of specialized committees set to start in April. Economic discussions, including the oil agreement, and security concerns in SDF-controlled areas, were also addressed.
Iran’s Arm in Captagon Trade: Adnan Al-Sayed Arrested in Aleppo
The General Security in Aleppo announced the arrest of Adnan Al-Sayed, the deputy commander of the Quds Brigade in the province, today. Al-Sayed is accused of being one of Iran and Hezbollah’s key figures in the Captagon trade. Previously, Aleppo witnessed a sweeping campaign targeting war criminals and individuals involved in crimes. Syria has become a major hub for Captagon production, with billions in annual profits.
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★ LEBANON
Syrian and Lebanese Armies Coordinate to Ensure Border Peace
The Syrian and Lebanese armies have coordinated efforts to restore peace along their shared border, particularly in the divided town of “Hosh al-Sayyid Ali.” Both armies have agreed to withdraw, allowing civilians to return. The Syrian army has warned Hezbollah against violating the agreement, pledging a firm response to any breach. Meanwhile, the Lebanese army has completed its deployment in the town, securing full control and seizing weapons from homes. The army has begun patrolling the area to maintain regional security and stability.
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★ THE GULF
Mohammed bin Salman Discusses Gaza and Ukraine Developments with Macron
French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman condemned Israel’s renewed attacks on Gaza during their discussions. They announced plans to co-host a conference on a two-state solution to revive political prospects for Israelis and Palestinians. Macron also supported Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah initiative on Ukraine peace talks, and both leaders emphasized shared goals for stability in Lebanon and Syria.
Emirati Mediation Leads to Release of 350 Prisoners in Ukraine Conflict
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced a successful mediation between Russia and Ukraine, facilitating the release of 350 prisoners. This marks the 13th mediation effort by the UAE, with a total of 3,233 prisoners exchanged. The UAE’s ongoing commitment to resolving the conflict highlights its strong diplomatic ties with both countries and its role in easing the humanitarian impact of the crisis.
US-Russia Talks Set for Jeddah on Ukraine Ceasefire
US Middle East envoy Steve Wietekov announced new talks with Russia on Ukraine, scheduled for Sunday in Jeddah. Following a call between Presidents Trump and Putin, Wietekov revealed his recent Moscow meetings with Putin, focusing on a 30-day ceasefire. Discussions will continue in Saudi Arabia, led by US officials, addressing key issues such as energy infrastructure and Black Sea navigation.
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★ EGYPT & NORTH AFRICA
Emergency Arab Meeting in Cairo Discusses Israeli Escalation in Gaza
The Arab League condemned Israel’s disregard for the peace message issued during the emergency Palestinian summit in Cairo earlier this month. In an extraordinary meeting, a working group was formed to follow up on the summit’s decisions. The meeting, called by Palestine, addressed Israel’s renewed airstrikes on Gaza, which killed at least 430 people. The League demanded the UN suspend Israel’s membership, pursue legal action, and enforce previous Arab summit decisions.
Chinese and Russian Dominance Exacerbates Trade Deficit in Tunisia
Tunisia’s trade deficit has significantly worsened in the first two months of 2025, doubling compared to the same period last year. This is largely due to imbalanced trade with China and Russia. The deficit reached over $1.2 billion, with China and Russia accounting for significant shortfalls. Economic experts warn that these trade relations strain Tunisia’s financial stability, urging a review of agreements with both countries and a shift towards more balanced partnerships.
IMF Approves $496 Million for Morocco After Third Review
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) announced that its executive board concluded the third review under Morocco’s “Flexible and Sustainable Arrangement,” granting the country approximately $496 million. Despite facing another year of drought, Morocco’s economy has shown resilience, with expected medium-term growth driven by significant investments and ongoing structural reforms. This new financing increases the total allocated amount for the program to $1.24 billion.
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