★SYRIA
U.S. Envoy Opens Ambassador’s Residence in Damascus After 13 Years
U.S. Special Envoy Thomas Barrack and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Sheibani inaugurated the American ambassador’s residence in Damascus—Washington’s first official presence since its embassy closed in 2012. Barrack, appointed last week, stated the post-Assad era offers a path to peace and prosperity, signaling openness to lifting sanctions. The move reflects a shift toward regional diplomacy and underscores U.S. recognition of Syria’s new governing reality.
EU Targets Turkish-Backed Syrian Officers Over Coastal Massacres
The EU sanctioned Mohammed al-Jassem (Abu Amsha) and Saif Bulad (Abu Bakr), along with three factions—the Sultan Suleiman Shah Brigade, Hamza Division, and Sultan Murad Brigade—for war crimes committed in Syria’s coastal region in March 2025. Abu Amsha commands the 25th Division and heads the Hama Security Zone, while Abu Bakr leads the Hamza Division. EU investigators cited systematic atrocities by these factions prior to their integration into the army. ============
★ ISRAEL
Witkoff Reportedly Proposes Gaza Plan With 60-Day Ceasefire
U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff proposed a Gaza ceasefire plan involving a 60-day truce, phased prisoner releases, and aid delivery. It includes the release of 10 live hostages and 18 bodies, with 125 Palestinian prisoners with life sentences freed. Arabic media reported that Hamas signaled acceptance of the plan, which entails Israeli withdrawal to agreed lines and continued negotiations. Netanyahu’s cabinet is reviewing the proposal.
Israel Struggles With Global Backlash and Budget Delays
Israel faces increasing international condemnation over Gaza, with France leading a peace summit and Chile recalling military attachés. Graphic Gaza images fuel diplomatic tensions. Meanwhile, budget delays hinder Israel’s public diplomacy efforts despite a planned NIS 545 million boost.
IDF Laser Defense Achieves Breakthrough With Dozens of Interceptions
The IDF announced that its laser defense system, similar to Iron Beam, intercepted dozens of aerial threats during the war, marking a historic milestone. Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the technology is praised for its reliability, adaptability, and operational effectiveness. The laser’s success is expected to expand Israel’s defense layers while complementing Iron Dome’s missile interception capabilities.
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★ IRAN
Austria: Iran’s Nuclear Weapons Program ‘Well Advanced,’ Defies U.S. View
Austria’s top intelligence agency reported Iran is actively developing nuclear weapons and long-range delivery systems, contradicting recent U.S. assessments. The Austrian Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution described Tehran’s nuclear program as “well advanced” and tied it to Iran’s broader strategy for regional dominance. The report also flagged Iran’s missile buildup, sanctions evasion, proxy arming, and intelligence operations via its large Vienna embassy. U.S. DNI Tulsi Gabbard in March claimed Iran’s weapons program remained dormant, a position now openly challenged by European intelligence.
Iran Sends Mixed Signals on Enrichment Freeze as Talks Loom
Iran denied a Reuters report claiming it would pause uranium enrichment if the U.S. recognized its civilian nuclear rights. Tehran called the claim “false,” insisting enrichment is non-negotiable. Yet Israeli outlets say Iran agreed to a freeze under those exact terms. With a sixth round of U.S.–Iran talks expected, the contradiction suggests Tehran is using ambiguity to pressure Washington for sanctions relief, while testing whether the U.S. will cross Israel’s red line: recognizing Iran’s right to enrich.
Iran Expands Afghan Trade Ties as U.S. Eyes Bagram Return
Iran is accelerating efforts to counter U.S. reentry into Afghanistan by boosting Taliban ties. Tehran advanced its Iran-Afghanistan-China corridor plans and expanded Chabahar port access, fueling trade growth. Talks with Taliban officials now focus on rail links and economic integration, reinforcing Iran’s role in reshaping Kabul’s regional alignment.
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★ LEBANON
Lebanese Army Dismantles Hezbollah Sites, with Israeli and US Help
Lebanon’s army has dismantled most of Hezbollah’s positions and weapons caches in southern Lebanon, using Israeli intelligence shared by the US. While challenges remain to complete the disarmament process outlined in the November 2024 ceasefire, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said 80% of objectives have been met. Israel withdrew from southern Lebanon, except for five posts near the border.
Israel Hoists Flags in Lebanese Border Area as Tensions Rise
Israel raised two large flags in the Lebanese border area of Wazzani near Khiam, marking its latest incursion. One flag stood on a hill overlooking the Wazzani River, while the other hung on an earthen barrier facing Lebanese land. Residents of Yater blocked a UNIFIL patrol, citing unauthorized entry without Lebanese army presence, despite updated UNIFIL mandates allowing such patrols.
Lebanon’s Municipal Elections Signal Shifts in Hezbollah’s Influence
Lebanon’s municipal elections on 24 May, considered a test for Hezbollah’s post-war popularity, saw Hezbollah and Amal secure major wins in the Bekaa and South through uncontested councils and low turnout. Despite the impact of the war with Israel, Assad’s fall, and border scrutiny, Hezbollah aimed to project strength, though voter participation fell sharply. The group faces growing domestic and international pressure to disarm.
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★ TÜRKIYE
Istanbul Secures Central Role in Russia–Ukraine Peace Negotiations
Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu announced Istanbul’s role as the primary venue for negotiations with Ukraine, crediting Türkiye’s efforts to ensure security and a conducive environment. Shoigu highlighted the success of previous Istanbul-hosted talks, including a prisoner exchange and the Black Sea grain deal. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has proposed a second round of talks in Istanbul for June 2.
Türkiye Faces Risk of Massive U.S. Tariffs on Russian Gas Imports
A U.S. Senate bill threatens to impose a 500% tariff on Russian gas imports, severely affecting Türkiye, which relies on Russian pipelines such as “TurkStream” and “Blue Stream.” The bill grants President Trump the authority to issue temporary waivers, but it reflects an escalation in economic pressure on Moscow with major implications for Ankara.
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★ GULF
UAE issues rare warning to Israel after summoning envoy over Jerusalem Flag March
The UAE summoned Israel’s envoy, issuing a rare warning over the Jerusalem Flag March’s violence and provocations, demanding decisive action. Officials condemned far-right slogans and harassment of Palestinians, citing violations of the Temple Mount’s sanctity. They warned of regional escalation if Israel fails to address the actions, despite the UAE’s ongoing diplomatic and economic ties with Israel.
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★LIBYA
Protests Erupt in Libya Demanding Dbeibah’s Ouster
Overnight protests in western Libyan cities, including Tripoli, blocked roads with burning tires and garbage bins, as demonstrators demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah. Demonstrators chanted for change and condemned recent militia violence and political corruption. The unrest follows armed clashes and reflects deepening discontent amid stalled political solutions.
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