★SYRIA
UAE Secretly Brokers Syria-Israel Security Talks After Al-Julani Visit
The United Arab Emirates is quietly mediating indirect security-focused talks between Syria and Israel following an April visit to Abu Dhabi by Abu Mohamad al-Julani, also known as Ahmad al-Sharaa. The discussions involve Syrian and Emirati officials along with former Israeli intelligence figures, aiming to reduce regional tensions and foster trust. During a press appearance in Paris alongside President Emmanuel Macron, al-Julani acknowledged the indirect dialogue. Although Reuters cited the UAE as a mediator, Emirati authorities denied involvement. Israeli, Syrian, and UAE officials have not issued formal statements.
Syria and France Discuss Reconstruction and Economic Cooperation
Abu Mohamad al Julani,aka (Ahmad al Sharaa). met French President Macron in Paris to discuss Syria’s reconstruction and economic cooperation, focusing on energy and aviation. The visit, al Julani’s first to Europe since taking office, follows a 30-year port deal with French firm CMA CGM. Talks also addressed Israeli attacks, regional ties, and restoring Syria’s sovereignty after recent internal violence. Meanwhile, al-Julani addressed the issue of foreign fighters in Syria during his press conference with French President Macron, stating that the Syrian constitution will determine which foreign fighters and their families will receive Syrian citizenship.
Qatar to Fund Syrian Public Sector Salaries with U.S. Approval
Qatar will provide Syria $29 million monthly for three months, extendable, to pay civilian public sector salaries, following a U.S. sanctions exemption. The UNDP will manage the funds, excluding security ministries. The initiative, backed by Washington, marks a shift in U.S. policy as European nations ease sanctions, enabling a 400% salary increase for over one million employees.
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★YEMEN
The Houthis Confirm the Truce with Washington and Announce Continued Targeting of Israel
The Houthis confirmed a ceasefire agreement with the U.S. brokered via Oman, explicitly excluding attacks on Israel. Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdulsalam warned that Israel remains a military target, especially after Israeli airstrikes caused over $500 million in damage to Sana’a airport and decimated Hodeidah’s port. Iran endorsed the truce’s framework while backing ongoing operations against Israeli targets. A Houthi missile aimed at Israel recently misfired, landing in Saudi Arabia. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Katz, vowed to escalate attacks on Yemen regardless of U.S. support. Meanwhile, the U.S. offered $15 million for intelligence on Houthi funding networks, accusing the Iran-aligned group of endangering maritime security and civilian lives. The confrontation sharpens regional flashpoints, intensifying the shadow war rooted in the Gaza conflict.
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★ IRAN
Tehran Confirms Indirect Talks Will Continue, Warns Washington Against Tampering With Persian Gulf Name
Iran confirmed the continuation of indirect nuclear talks with the U.S. through Omani mediation but denied proposing direct negotiations, calling related reports fabricated. Tehran welcomed a Red Sea ceasefire as a step toward potential diplomatic gains, while Washington linked the truce to hopes for curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Simultaneously, Iran condemned U.S. efforts to rename the Persian Gulf, warning of global backlash and accusing Washington of stoking regional tensions ahead of Trump’s Saudi visit.
Iran Criticizes UK Arrests of Nationals Tied to Terror Plot
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned Britain’s arrest of seven Iranian nationals amid a major counterterrorism investigation, offering Tehran’s cooperation if illegal activity is verified. The UK described the probe as one of its most significant anti-terror efforts in recent years. Reports revealed that the primary suspect maintains close ties with the Iranian regime, raising diplomatic tensions. The arrests followed coordinated raids by British security units, part of operations that have foiled over 20 Iran-linked plots since 2022. Authorities suspect the targets may be linked to Iranian opposition groups.
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★ ISRAEL
Netanyahu Confirms 21 Hostages Alive in Gaza, Fate of 3 Unclear
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu confirmed that 21 hostages taken by Hamas on October 7 remain alive, while the fate of 3 others is unknown. His statement, delivered via video, followed U.S. President Trump’s comments suggesting those three may be dead. Israel also confirmed that 35 hostages’ bodies remain in Gaza, fueling concern over ongoing captivity conditions.
UK Firms Sent Munitions to Israel Despite Arms Export Freeze
Despite a suspension on arms exports, UK companies reportedly sent over 8,600 war munitions items and F-35 parts to Israel since September 2024. The shipments contradict Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s claim that only “defensive” gear like helmets was supplied. Critics accuse the UK government of secrecy and complicity in Gaza violence, demanding an immediate halt to all military exports.
Israel Expands Gaza Assault, Declares Draft, Faces Internal Rebellion
Israeli strikes killed 16 Palestinians, including a child and journalist Nour Abdu, as Gaza’s population is squeezed into just 30% of the enclave. Air raids hit homes, a school, and a shelter, worsening a crisis the UN now calls a famine. A separate airstrike on a Gaza City restaurant killed dozens, including women and children, with many critically wounded. Al-Qassam Brigades released footage of a deadly ambush on Israeli forces in Rafah, part of its ongoing Operation “Gates of Hell.” Meanwhile, IDF Chief Eyal Zamir ordered the draft of 50,000 ultra-Orthodox Jews, sparking backlash and threatening the Netanyahu coalition. Former Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon denounced the government as “Nazi-like” and urged civil disobedience to save Israeli democracy. Palestinian PM Mohammad Mustafa declared Gaza a famine zone, while UN officials warned that starvation tactics amount to war crimes and genocide under international law. Ceasefire talks continue under international mediation.
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★ TÜRKIYE
Erdoğan Praises Pakistan’s Restraint, Offers Support Over Kashmir Attack
President Erdoğan expressed solidarity with Prime Minister Sharif after the May 6 Kashmir attack, lauding Pakistan’s restraint and backing calls for an impartial probe. In their call, Erdoğan extended condolences, pledged diplomatic support to defuse tensions with India, and affirmed Türkiye’s readiness to help prevent further escalation along the Line of Control.
Türkiye, Israel Hold Syria-Focused Talks in Baku Mediated by Azerbaijan
Turkish and Israeli officials met Thursday in Baku, with Israel demanding Syria remain free of strategic weapons and hostile forces near its borders. The talks, brokered by Azerbaijan, follow Israel’s military buildup near the Golan Heights and reflect growing concerns over Turkish influence in Syria and coordination efforts between Ankara and Tel Aviv on regional security.
Turkish Opposition Pushes for Snap Elections as Erdoğan Eyes Constitutional Changes
Türkiye’s opposition demands early elections following Ekrem İmamoğlu’s arrest, while Erdoğan’s bloc explores constitutional reforms allowing his re-election and altering the 50%+1 presidential win rule. The CHP may trigger by-elections through mass resignations to pressure the government. Meanwhile, Erdoğan met MHP leader Bahçeli to discuss the new constitution during unrest and legal action against Kurdish politicians.
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★LEBANON
Arab Fund Resumes Development Financing for Lebanon After Years of Suspension
The Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development will resume funding development projects in Lebanon, and it is now conducting feasibility studies. President Joseph Aoun welcomed the move as part of efforts to rebuild the state with transparency and reform. Priority sectors include electricity, with plans for cost-effective renewable energy to revive economic activity.
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★ THE GULF
Saudi Arabia Rejects Israeli Declaration of Gaza Control
Saudi Arabia firmly rejected Israel’s claim of control over Gaza, denouncing violations of international and humanitarian law. Riyadh reaffirmed opposition to settlement expansion and support for a Palestinian state based on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as capital. The statement followed Israeli Defense Minister Katz’s warning of a full-scale Gaza invasion unless a prisoner swap deal is reached.
UAE Rejects Sudan’s Decision to Cut Diplomatic Relations
The UAE dismissed Sudan’s decision to sever diplomatic ties, stating it does not recognize the Port Sudan authority as legitimate. Abu Dhabi linked the move to the ICJ’s dismissal of Sudan’s genocide case, which accused the UAE of backing the Rapid Support Forces. The UAE reaffirmed support for Sudan’s people and denied any interference in Sudan’s internal conflict.
Qatar Central Bank Reserves Hit Record $70.6 Billion in April
Qatar Central Bank’s international reserves rose 3.6% year-on-year in April 2025, reaching a record $70.6 billion. Official reserves climbed 4.6% to $54.4 billion, driven by a 60% surge in gold holdings to $12.3 billion, despite a $1.82 billion drop in foreign bonds and treasury bills. The increase reflects the bank’s cautious asset diversification strategy during global uncertainty.
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★ EGYPT&NORTH AFRICA
Egypt and Greece Upgrade Ties, Sisi to Join Russia’s Victory Day
President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis signed a strategic partnership agreement in Athens, enhancing energy, trade, and regional security cooperation. Sisi reaffirmed opposition to Palestinian displacement and lauded Greece’s past diplomatic support. Talks also addressed Gaza, Syria, Libya, and illegal migration. Sisi will next attend Russia’s Victory Day celebrations in Moscow on May 9.
Explosions Rock Port Sudan as Army Downs Drones on Fourth Day of Attacks
Sudan’s army intercepted multiple drones targeting Port Sudan, including strikes near the air college and Flamingo naval base. Explosions echoed across the city, which houses the interim government. UN Secretary-General Guterres warned that continued drone attacks by Rapid Support Forces risk mass civilian casualties and threaten vital humanitarian aid routes through the Red Sea port.
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