★IRAN
Iran Rejects Oman Enrichment Suspension Proposal During Nuclear Talks
Iran rejected Oman’s proposal for a six-month uranium enrichment halt during U.S. nuclear talks. Tehran dismissed the confidence-building measure, citing past “excessive demands” while declaring enrichment non-negotiable. Iran possesses 300 kilograms of enriched uranium, sufficient for ten atomic bombs.
China-Iran Rail Corridor Begins Commercial Operations
A Chinese freight train from Xi’an completed its first commercial delivery to Aprin dry port near Tehran, launching China-Iran rail corridor operations. Six-nation railway officials from Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Turkey agreed on competitive tariffs for Europe-bound services during Tehran meetings. Simultaneously, the Iranian Transport Minister inspected the Shalamcheh-Basra railway project during the Iraq border visit, emphasizing infrastructure acceleration for Iran-Iraq economic integration. President Masoud Pezeshkian declared that the Iranian people “will not die of hunger if the United States rejects negotiations or imposes sanctions,” stating Tehran possesses “many alternative solutions if negotiations prove unsuccessful.” The corridor connects Chinese manufacturing to Middle Eastern markets while reducing Iranian transportation costs through Iran’s largest cargo station.
Pakistani Prime Minister Thanks Iran for India Conflict Support
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday, expressing gratitude for Iran’s mediation during Pakistan’s recent military confrontation with India. Khamenei praised Pakistan’s refusal to normalize relations with Israel despite Western pressure, stating Pakistan “has never succumbed to these temptations.” The Iranian leader described Gaza’s situation as dire while criticizing Islamic governments that “stand alongside the Zionist regime.” Sharif briefed Iranian leadership on what he called India’s “hegemonistic and revisionist designs” and thanked Iran for diplomatic support during the four-day conflict that killed 48 people. Both leaders discussed expanding bilateral trade from the current $2 billion to a potential $10 billion through enhanced banking cooperation. The meeting addressed counterterrorism coordination along the Iran-Pakistan border, where foreign-backed militants target security forces. Separately, the Iranian Transport Minister inspected the stalled $7 billion Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project despite ongoing U.S. sanctions complications.
Iran Sentences Christian Converts to Combined 24 Years
The Iranian Revolutionary Court sentenced two Christian converts to 24 years imprisonment and $24,000 fines for “promoting deviant Christian Zionist beliefs.” Mehdi Rahimi and Kia Nourinia received in absentia convictions from the Tabriz court without being able to present a defense. Intelligence agents confiscated 5,000 religious books from raids targeting Christian literature possession.
Iran Air Receives Two Used Airbus A330s in Oil-for-Planes Deal with China
Iran Air has acquired two secondhand Airbus A330-200 aircraft from Hong Kong Airlines via a barter deal with Chinese firm Haokun Energy, trading Iranian oil worth $116 million. The planes, valued at under $30 million each in the secondhand market, have sparked criticism of over-inflated costs and lack of transparency. The deal, involving aging aircraft and incomplete commitments by Haokun, highlights Iran’s struggles with an aging fleet amid sanctions.
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★ ISRAEL
Hamas, Israel Dispute Claims of Gaza Ceasefire Deal
A Palestinian source close to Hamas said the group had agreed to a Gaza ceasefire deal attributed to U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, proposing to release 10 Israeli hostages in exchange for a 70-day truce, prisoner releases, and partial IDF withdrawal. Witkoff denied Hamas’s claims, asserting that a deal involving half the hostages is still pending, while Israel insisted Hamas has not accepted any offer.
Violence and Anti-Arab Chants Erupt During Jerusalem Day March
Tens of thousands of religious Zionists flooded Jerusalem’s Old City for the Flag March, chanting anti-Arab slogans and clashing with Palestinians and police. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir led calls for harsher actions against Palestinians and pledged further expansion into Gaza. Israeli police reported multiple detentions and pepper spray incidents. Ben Gvir, joined by over 2,000 settlers and Israeli officials, led provocative raids on the Al-Aqsa Mosque, sparking assaults on Palestinians and drawing widespread condemnation from Palestine, Qatar, and Türkiye.
U.S.-Backed Gaza Aid System Draws Criticism and Violent Retaliation
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, supported by the U.S. and Israel, initiated new aid hubs in Gaza during a three-month blockade, but the effort faces objections from the U.N. and warnings from Hamas over concerns about misappropriated aid. Channel 12 reported that the UK indirectly funded Hamas via UNICEF’s Gaza cash-transfer program, and that the UK persisted with the payments despite reputational risks. Amid corruption allegations and internal dissent, Hamas executed four men accused of looting aid convoys, while a prominent Rafah clan leader criticized Hamas for monopolizing aid distribution.
Qassam Brigades Strike in Gaza, Israel Responds With Intense Firepower
Hamas’s Qassam Brigades attacked two Israeli tanks and a group of Israeli forces in Beit Lahia with Yassin-105 shells and anti-personnel projectiles. Meanwhile, Israel launched over 200 airstrikes targeting Hamas sites, including weapons depots, rocket launchers, and tunnel entrances. Three rockets were fired toward Kissufim, while heavy air and artillery strikes hit eastern Gaza City and Khan Younis. Al Jazeera claimed that the strikes killed over 80 Palestinians. Meanwhile, Israel has approved the emergency mobilization of up to 450,000 reservists under “Order 8,” effective until August 31, 2025. This is the largest call-up since the conflict began in October, despite legal concerns about the fairness of draft laws, particularly regarding ultra-Orthodox conscription. The daily cost per reservist is estimated at 1,000 shekels.
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★IRAQ
Iraq’s Sudani Announces Largest Electoral Coalition Ahead of November Vote
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani formed the “Reconstruction and Development Coalition” with seven Coordination Framework entities for the November elections. The Sadr Movement has thus far maintained a boycott, leaving a potential vacuum in the Shia community constituency. Sunni parties are seeking a unified electoral alliance while Kurdish parties signal potential cooperation after years of division.
Iraq Proposes Gas Swap Mechanism for Turkmen Gas Imports
Iraq’s electricity ministry proposed a gas swap mechanism to overcome sanctions blocking gas imports from Turkmenistan. The plan involves moving gas to northern Iran and receiving equivalent quantities from Iran. This follows an earlier 20 million cubic meter/day supply deal via Iranian pipelines, stalled by sanctions preventing payments through the Trade Bank of Iraq.
Conflicting Reports on Potential Deal to Free Israeli-Russian Hostage Elizabeth Tsurkov
Iran International reported that Elizabeth Tsurkov, an Israeli-Russian academic kidnapped in Baghdad in 2023, is set to be released in a deal involving Iranian prisoners convicted in Iraq of crimes including murder and kidnapping. The deal reportedly follows quiet talks involving Washington, Baghdad, and Iran-backed groups. According to the report, among those to be exchanged is Mohammadreza Nouri, convicted of killing U.S. citizen Stephen Troell. However, U.S. officials denied that such a deal has been agreed.
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★SYRIA
US-Backed Kurds and Syrian Government Secure Deal to Clear ISIS Camps
The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces and the Syrian interim government struck a deal to evacuate Syrians from al-Hol camp and return them to their original areas. The deal includes a joint evacuation mechanism and Damascus assuming control over all Rojava regions, including camps. This follows increased US involvement and recent security integrations between Kurdish forces and Syrian authorities.
Syrian Security Arrests ISIS Cell in Damascus Countryside
Syrian internal security forces conducted a “precise and decisive” operation today, capturing multiple ISIS operatives in Kesweh, Deir Khabiyah, Muqaylibah, and Zakiyah, Damascus countryside. Weapons, including missiles, explosives, and suicide vests, were seized. The raid followed an earlier car bombing in Deir ez-Zor and a complex anti-ISIS operation in Aleppo, reflecting intensified Syrian security efforts.
Syrian Defense Minister Announces Merger of 130 Factions into National Army
Syrian Defense Minister Morhaf Abu Qusra announced the completion of the integration of 130 factions into the ministry, emphasizing the shift toward a disciplined, professional national army. Abu Qusra revealed restructuring plans, new training programs, and the rehabilitation of military institutions to support a stable, efficient military force. Some dissident officers are being reintegrated into service amid broader reforms.
Washington and Damascus Discuss Five-Year Oil Reconstruction Plan
CNBC Arabia revealed a strategic plan for reviving Syria’s oil and gas sector through a U.S.-Syrian partnership. The plan involves creating “SyriUS Energy,” a joint company listed on the U.S. stock market, with a 30% stake held by a Syrian energy sovereign fund. The plan includes rebuilding infrastructure, securing fuel supplies, stabilizing energy, and preparing for regional exports via Iraq, Israel, or rehabilitated ports. It prioritizes Syrian sovereignty, economic recovery, and international cooperation.
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★ TÜRKIYE
Speculation Grows Over Major Erdogan Cabinet Shake-Up
Speculation is mounting that Turkish President Erdogan may enact a sweeping cabinet reshuffle by mid-June. Reports suggest replacing eight ministers, splitting two ministries, adding 10 new ministers, and possibly expanding vice-presidential positions. While Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Environment Minister Murat Kurum are expected to remain, Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek faces criticism over economic policies, fueling rumors of his departure.
FM Fidan Meets President Putin in Moscow to Discuss Ukraine War and Bilateral Ties
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss efforts to end the Ukraine war, following Istanbul peace talks on May 16. Bilateral economic and energy issues were also addressed. The meeting followed Fidan’s earlier meeting with Putin’s aide, Vladimir Medinsky.
Türkiye Plans to Establish Naval and Air Bases in Syria
Turkish media revealed plans for Ankara to build its first military bases in Syria, one naval and one air, aimed at bolstering counter-terrorism efforts against ISIS. The bases are part of a broader Turkish-Syrian security cooperation, with agreements for military and security restructuring. A mechanism was established to avoid clashes with Israel over this expansion.
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★YEMEN
Houthi Missile Attacks from Yemen Trigger Sirens Across Israel
Two missiles fired from Yemen were intercepted within hours early Tuesday, setting off sirens across the Jordan Valley and northern West Bank, but causing no injuries or damage. Sirens sounded in numerous towns, including Ariel and Elon Moreh. The attacks follow similar recent missile launches by Houthi rebels, some aimed at Ben Gurion Airport. Israel’s air defenses intercepted all projectiles.
Houthis Claim $1.4 Billion Losses from US and Israeli Strikes on Red Sea Ports
Houthi-controlled Red Sea Ports Corporation reported $1.4 billion in losses due to U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Hudaydah, As-Salif, and Ras Issa ports from July 2024 to May 2025. The group cited over $531 million in direct damage and $856 million in indirect losses from disrupted services and supply chains, including the destruction of port infrastructure, cranes, and power facilities.
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★ LEBANON
Lebanese PM Declares End of Iranian Influence and Demands Real Peace
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam declared the end of Iranian revolutionary influence in Lebanon, insisting on real peace with Israel and rejecting weapons outside state control. He emphasized that Hezbollah must align with government authority, marking a decisive shift away from Iran-backed policies and underscoring Lebanon’s commitment to sovereignty and stability.
Hezbollah Chief Doubles Down on ‘Resistance’ Against Israel and US
Hezbollah leader Sheikh Naim Qassem reaffirmed the group’s unwavering commitment to resistance during a speech marking Resistance and Liberation Day. He criticized US support for Israel under President Trump, called for an end to Israeli occupation, and praised pro-Iranian groups in Yemen and Iraq. Qassem emphasized Hezbollah’s resolve, rejecting pressure and threats while positioning the group as Lebanon’s defender and citing the historical roots of its struggle.
Israeli Strikes Hit Hezbollah Sites and IDF Forces Advance Into Lebanon
Israeli airstrikes struck Hezbollah military positions near Baalbek’s Britel area, following prior IDF evacuation warnings. The strikes targeted rocket launchers and weapons sites, killing a Hezbollah Radwan operative. Explosions erupted in Tyre, Toul, and other southern Lebanese villages, with smoke and visible destruction reported. Concurrently, an Israeli infantry unit, supported by bulldozers, advanced over 200 meters into Lebanese territory east of Mais al-Jabal. Soldiers searched homes using flashlights while the Lebanese military responded with patrols. A Lebanese family near the incursion site evacuated amid escalating tension, and reports indicate excavation operations occurred.
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★ GULF
Saudi Arabia and Kuwait Announce Major Oil Discovery in Divided Zone
Saudi Arabia and Kuwait announced a significant new oil discovery in the “North Wafra Wara – Burgan” field, located five kilometers north of the Wafra field. Oil flowed from the Wara reservoir at the North Wafra (Wara Burgan -1) well at over 500 barrels per day with an API gravity of 26-27. This marks the first discovery since joint production resumed in the Divided Zone and the adjacent submerged area in mid-2020.
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★EGYPT & NORTH AFRICA
Israel Confronts Egypt’s Quiet Military Build-Up in Sinai
Israeli officials are alarmed by Egypt’s growing military presence in Sinai, reportedly amassing 180 battalions—quadrupling the Camp David treaty’s limit. Amid IDF’s downsizing and a shortened mandatory service, Israel’s ability to respond is diminished. Egypt’s force buildup, including reports of chemical weapons preparations, and its refusal to appoint an ambassador signal a dangerous shift in regional relations.
IDF and Moroccan Army Train Together in African Lion 2025 Exercise
The IDF’s Golani reconnaissance unit and Moroccan forces conducted joint tunnel warfare training in the African Lion 2025 exercise, sparking backlash across Arab social media. The drills, involving robotic systems and advanced surveillance, were part of a multinational exercise spanning multiple Moroccan cities. Over 10,000 personnel from the U.S., Morocco, and allies participated, with operations including commando training and humanitarian aid.
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