★SYRIA
Trump Approves Syria’s Plan to Integrate Foreign Jihadists into Army
The US has endorsed Syria’s plan to integrate 3,500 foreign jihadist ex-rebels, including Uyghurs, into the national army’s new 84th division. US Special Envoy for Syria Thomas Barrack emphasized transparency in the process, which aims to prevent them from joining ISIS or al-Qaeda. China has expressed concern, while Syria’s new leadership offers citizenship to loyalists. The move may deepen geopolitical friction with Beijing, legitimize former extremists, and permanently entrench jihadist influence within Syria’s new military order.
Syria and Kurdish-Led Forces Swap 470 Prisoners to Ease Tensions
Syria and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces exchanged 470 prisoners in Aleppo, aiming to reduce tensions and build trust. The deal, part of a wider ceasefire agreement merging SDF fighters into the Syrian army, follows earlier exchanges and has halted recent clashes. Released detainees described harsh conditions in SDF-run prisons.
Syrian Intelligence Files Reveal Fate of Austin Tice in Damascus
Leaked Syrian intelligence documents and testimonies from former officials indicate that American journalist Austin Tice was held in a Damascus intelligence facility after his 2012 disappearance. Although Tice initially thought to be abducted by extremists, the leaked evidence indicates he was detained by pro-Assad security forces and a paramilitary group. Tice endured harsh treatment but received some medical care. His fate remains unknown since Syrian prisons were emptied after Assad’s fall.
US Withdraws 500 Troops from Syria, Closes Two Bases, Transfers One to SDF
Over 500 US troops left Syria after shutting down two military bases and handing over a third to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), according to US officials. The Pentagon plans to reduce forces to under 1,000 troops in the coming months, consolidating under Operation Inherent Resolve. The US will retain a regional presence to counter ISIS and adapt to security changes.
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★ IRAN
Iran Reinforces Air Defenses, Rejects US Nuclear Proposal
Iran is enhancing its air defense due to fears of US or Israeli attacks if nuclear negotiations fail. Tehran deployed advanced systems like the S-300 near the Natanz and Fordow nuclear sites. Iranian military chief Mohammad Baqeri threatened severe retaliation for any airspace violations. Simultaneously, Iran rejected a new US nuclear deal, labeling it one-sided and a “non-starter.” The proposal, delivered via Oman’s mediation, was dismissed by Iran’s nuclear committee, which demands immediate sanctions relief and maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes.
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★ ISRAEL AND PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES
Izz al-Din al-Haddad to Replace Sinwar as Hamas Military Leader
Izz al-Din al-Haddad, head of Hamas’s northern Gaza brigade and Gaza City chief since 2021, is set to replace Mohammed Sinwar as the group’s military leader. He coordinated the October 7 attack, survived six assassination attempts, and reportedly holds veto power over hostage deal proposals. Al-Haddad is also highly cautious, with a $750,000 bounty on his head.
Germany Says It Has Approved Nearly €500 Million in Arms Exports to Israel Since October 7
Germany has approved arms exports to Israel worth €485.1 million since October 7, 2023. This was revealed by the Economy Ministry in response to a Left Party inquiry. The new government, formed in May, has not yet clarified its stance on future approvals. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul announced plans to review these exports for compliance with international humanitarian law.
Dozens Shot Near Gaza Aid Center, Renewing Hamas Accusations Against Israel
Hamas-linked sources accused Israeli forces of opening fire near a Rafah aid center for a third consecutive day, with the sources citing 15 deaths and over 200 injuries. The IDF acknowledged firing warning shots at advancing suspects but denied shooting at the aid site. The Red Cross reported treating nearly 230 wounded in Rafah, while international calls for an investigation intensify.
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★ TÜRKIYE
Secret Russia-Ukraine Meeting Precedes Istanbul Peace Talks
A covert meeting between Russian and Ukrainian officials, including Vladimir Medinsky and Rustem Umerov, took place before the second round of Istanbul peace talks. The talks concluded without breakthroughs, though agreements were made to exchange seriously ill prisoners and those under 25. Russia proposed a partial ceasefire and a broader peace plan, while Ukraine demanded an unconditional 30-day ceasefire and provided lists of deported children. Tensions escalated due to continued drone attacks, and both sides blamed each other for delays. A future leaders’ summit is under consideration.
Ekrem İmamoğlu Accused of Vote Manipulation in Opposition Party Conference
Istanbul’s jailed Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and 11 others were charged with vote manipulation at the 2023 Republican People’s Party (CHP) conference. The indictment alleges offering money, jobs, and benefits to secure votes for CHP leader Özgür Özel. The trial resumes on June 30, and a ruling could annul the conference results, forcing new party leadership elections.
Türkiye Joins the Caspian Gas Field, as alliance with Azerbaijan grows
Türkiye’s TPAO acquired a 30% stake in Azerbaijan’s Shafag-Asiman gas field, solidifying Ankara-Baku energy ties. The deal, signed with SOCAR and BP, boosts regional energy security and aims to expand renewable projects. President Erdoğan emphasized strategic partnerships, while Energy Minister Bayraktar highlighted increased gas output, regional interconnections, and investments in renewables and critical minerals.
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★ YEMEN
Houthis Launch Ballistic Missile Targeting Ben Gurion Airport
Houthi forces launched a ballistic missile at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv, forcing 4 million residents into shelters and halting airport operations. Military spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed the attack used a Zulfiqar missile and was a response to Israeli actions in Gaza. The Israeli army intercepted the missile, activating sirens across central Israel and suspending flights temporarily.
Houthis Threaten Economic Damage to Israel, Urge Investors to Leave
Houthi leader Mahdi al-Mashat warned foreign companies to withdraw investments from Israel, citing risks of economic harm. He claimed some firms plan to leave and suggested remaining investors exit before it’s too late. The threat follows Houthi missile attacks aimed at disrupting Israeli air traffic and causing substantial economic damage.
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★ LEBANON
Araqchi Visits Beirut as Lebanon Insists on Restricting Arms to the State
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, visiting Beirut, emphasized Iran’s respect for Lebanon’s sovereignty and non-interference in its affairs. Lebanon’s Foreign Minister Rajai reportedly told Araqchi the Lebanese government intended to follow through with its policy to disarm non-state actors. Araqchi expressed hope for a new chapter in bilateral ties during meetings with Lebanese officials. His visit comes during strained US-Iran nuclear talks and Israeli threats against Iran. Araqchi reaffirmed Iran’s support for Lebanon’s independence and unity.
Lebanon Faces Hezbollah Pressure Over Israel War Response
Lebanon’s PM Nawaf Salam seeks $7 billion to rebuild post-Israeli strikes but faces Hezbollah demands, including Israeli withdrawal, release of prisoners, and reconstruction guarantees. Hezbollah’s opposition intensified following Salam’s comments on normalization with Israel. The government’s efforts to disarm Hezbollah and refugee camps fuel tensions as the IDF continues strikes against Hezbollah-associated targets.
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★ EGYPT &NORTH AFRICA
Egypt Hosts Iran-IAEA Talks to Avert Regional Escalation
Egypt convened Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to revive stalled nuclear negotiations. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aati emphasized the need for a diplomatic solution to prevent military escalation. Iran’s Abbas Araghchi confirmed cooperation and asserted peaceful nuclear intentions. IAEA chief Rafael Grossi praised Egypt’s role. Discussions also covered Gaza, regional stability, and free navigation in the Red Sea.
Hemetti Vows to Continue Fighting Against Burhan’s Forces in Sudan
RSF leader Hemetti accused Burhan’s forces of attempting to assassinate him and vowed no negotiations with “criminals.” He warned against using North Kordofan and Northern State to attack Darfur and Kordofan, threatened military action, and claimed victory in South and West Kordofan. Hemetti also accused Burhan’s forces of harboring ISIS elements and warned of external interference.
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