★ SYRIA
Washington And EU Outline Syria Sanctions, Support, And Risks
The United States reiterated that any sanctions relief for Syria hinges on counterterrorism efforts, curbing Iranian influence, dismantling chemical weapons, resolving missing persons cases, and protecting minorities. While some restrictions were eased, full economic engagement remains contingent on these conditions. Concurrently, the European Union welcomed Syria’s new transitional government and voiced readiness to assist in stabilization. Israeli officials warned of al-Sharaa’s perceived alignment with Hamas and Islamic Jihad, describing his approach as antagonistic. Tensions further rose as Turkey reportedly sought to limit Israeli operations in Syrian airspace and negotiate a military base in Palmyra. Meanwhile, Syria’s 23-member cabinet confronts catastrophic economic damage, with recovery costs nearing $900 billion. Despite sanctions, officials hope to attract Arab and Western investors through reform and BOT frameworks, leveraging young technocrats to restore economic stability .
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★ IRAN
Iran Warns U.S. and Israel, Vows Retaliation and Nuclear Shift
Iran formally protested to the UN Security Council and the Swiss embassy in Tehran over U.S. President Donald Trump’s military threats and coercive demands regarding a nuclear agreement. Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, labeled the threats illegal and warned of swift retaliation to any attack. The IRGC declared that U.S. bases in the region are vulnerable while seizing two foreign tankers accused of smuggling fuel. Iran confirmed indirect talks only and rejected negotiations under pressure. Senior officials, including Ali Larijani, warned that continued U.S. pressure could push Iran toward a nuclear weapons path. Khamenei also cautioned against domestic unrest, accusing Washington and Tel Aviv of instigating instability. Iran reiterated its position: any aggression will trigger a decisive response.
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★ ISRAEL
Hamas Urges Global Armed Action as Israel Orders Rafah Evacuations
Hamas called on supporters worldwide to take up arms against forced displacement, following Israel’s sweeping evacuation order in southern Gaza, including Rafah. The IDF warned of intensified operations and urged civilians to move to Al-Mawasi. The evacuation follows Prime Minister Netanyahu’s renewed backing of the Trump-era plan for Gaza’s “voluntary migration,” which was rejected by Arab states. Israel’s offensive has killed over 60,000 Palestinians.
Netanyahu Reverses Shin Bet Appointment As Coalition Rift Widens in Israel
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu withdrew Eli Sharvit’s appointment as Shin Bet chief one day after announcing it, citing legal ambiguity and political backlash for bypassing current director Ronen Bar. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich simultaneously quit his Cabinet roles to return to the Knesset, prompting a coalition reshuffle and renewed disputes with Otzma Yehudit over unfulfilled promises. Netanyahu later accused authorities of politically targeting him in the “Qatargate” probe, claiming his aides were being used to block Bar’s dismissal and undermine his leadership. The moves exposed heightened instability within Israel’s far-right ruling bloc.
Israel Begins Border Fence With Jordan, Fitch Warns on Debt
Israel will start building a $1.4 billion border fence with Jordan in June to stop arms smuggling. The plan includes new towns and infrastructure upgrades. Fitch kept Israel’s ‘A’ rating but warned of rising debt and Gaza war risks. President Abbas approved the 2025 Palestinian budget with a $1.88 billion deficit. Revenues are estimated at 16.04 billion shekels, and spending at 20.65 billion. The deficit may grow if Israel keeps deducting tax revenues.
Islamic Jihad and Hamas Escalate Attacks as Drone Crashes
Islamic Jihad struck Hatzerim Airbase and Gaza-border settlements with 107mm rockets, targeting Israeli forces near Beit Lahia and northern Gaza. Al-Qassam Brigades destroyed an Israeli tank east of Khan Younis and shelled the area, marking renewed combat since March 18. Gaza’s Health Ministry reported over 1,000 Palestinians killed and 2,359 injured. Meanwhile, an Israeli Sky Rider drone crashed near Nir Yitzhak due to technical failure—its second malfunction in two weeks.
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★YEMEN
U.S. Escalates Yemen Strikes As Trump Vows To Pressure Iran
The United States launched 15 new airstrikes on Houthi positions in Yemen’s Saada province and Kamaran Island, following an alleged downing of an American MQ-9 drone over Marib. Strikes expanded to include Al-Dailami airbase in Sanaa and leadership sites, causing blackouts and widespread explosions. Houthi sources confirmed 17 attacks near Sanaa and areas in Majz and Sahar. President Donald Trump declared the offensive would persist until Houthi threats to Red Sea navigation end, warning Iran of repercussions. The White House claimed a top Houthi missile commander was killed, possibly Abdul Khaleq Badr al-Din al-Houthi, though the Pentagon has not confirmed his death. These developments signal a significant escalation in U.S. military operations, aiming to disrupt Houthi capabilities and assert control over maritime security.
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★ LEBANON
Israel Strike In Beirut Kills Three, Lebanon Condemns Violation
Israel struck Beirut’s southern suburb, targeting a Hezbollah member accused of aiding Hamas, killing three and injuring four. The airstrike, Israel’s second since the November ceasefire, drew sharp condemnation from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, who called it a grave warning of Israeli intent. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam labeled it a blatant breach of UN Resolution 1701.
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★ THE GULF
Israel Participates With Qatar In Greek Air Drill Despite Tensions
Israel joined Qatar in Greece’s Iniochos 25 air drill, deploying its Oron spy jet, while Qatar sent F-15s. The joint participation comes despite Qatar’s known ties to Hamas and ongoing investigations into alleged Qatari influence in Israel. Other participants include the U.S., UAE, France, India, and more. Israel skipped the previous two editions due to regional tensions and war in Gaza.
Abu Dhabi Records All-Time High GDP Of 1.2 Trillion Dirhams
Abu Dhabi’s economy reached a record GDP of 1.2 trillion dirhams in 2024, driven by 6.2% non-oil sector growth. The non-oil economy contributed 54.7% of the total output, reflecting successful diversification. Key sectors—manufacturing, construction, finance, ICT, education, and health—hit historic highs, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a rising global economic hub.
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★ EGYPT & NORTH AFRICA
Egypt And Iran Presidents Discuss Regional De-Escalation And Gaza Ceasefire
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held a phone call, stressing the need to prevent regional conflict. Pezeshkian praised Egypt’s Gaza ceasefire efforts, and El-Sisi emphasized regional stability. Both leaders highlighted unity among Islamic nations and expressed solidarity with Palestinians facing ongoing Israeli attacks since October 2023.
Israel Demands Egypt Roll Back Sinai Military Buildup Violating Treaty
Israel accused Egypt of breaching their peace treaty by deploying excess troops and expanding military infrastructure in Sinai. A senior Israeli official confirmed Tel Aviv requested Cairo and Washington dismantle the buildup, calling it a serious threat to border stability. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant prioritized the issue as Israel prepares diplomatic and strategic responses to ensure compliance.
France And Algeria Agree To Reset Ties And Resume Cooperation
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and French President Emmanuel Macron agreed to resolve tensions and restore bilateral cooperation. Both sides committed to immediate coordination on migration, security, and judicial exchanges. French ministers will visit Algiers next week, and joint historical and economic initiatives will also resume. Macron supported revising Algeria’s EU partnership agreement and urged clemency for writer Boualem Sansal.
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