★ IRAN
Tehran Shuts 23 Provinces As Energy Crisis, Unrest Soar
As severe heat intensifies and power and water shortages worsen, Iran suspended public services in 23 provinces on July 23, 2025. Citizens face daily outages despite decades-old promises of free utilities. Protests erupted in Sabzevar, while critics blamed regime mismanagement. Officials warned closures may continue as water access nears crisis levels and quality of life sharply declines.
Iran Accuses Israel in String of Domestic Explosions and Fires
Iranian officials suspect Israel is behind recent unexplained explosions targeting apartments, factories, and infrastructure nationwide, though public blame is placed on gas leaks and aging systems. While no formal accusation was made, Israeli officials declined to comment, and a Mossad-linked account hinted at involvement. The chaos follows last month’s deadly Israel-Iran war that killed 1,000 in Iran.
Iran, Russia, China Coordinate on Nuclear Talks, Sanctions Strategy
Senior Iranian, Russian, and Chinese diplomats met Tuesday in Tehran to coordinate positions on Iran’s nuclear program and Western sanctions ahead of July 25 talks with European powers in Istanbul. The meeting reviewed negotiations with the U.S. and EU. Parties agreed to hold similar consultations in the coming weeks as post-war regional tensions and renewed diplomatic efforts continue.
Iranian Regime Arrests Over 2,000 for Aiding Israel, Some Face Execution
Iran’s judiciary chief announced over 2,000 arrests after the 12-day war with Israel, with some detainees accused of organized collaboration with the enemy and facing life sentences or execution. Many were civilians filming attacks, while others reportedly have security records. Human rights groups warn of mass executions reminiscent of the 1988 “bloody summer” crackdown.
Iran’s Internet Restrictions Led to Massive Economic Losses During 12-Day War
Iran’s Communications Minister revealed internet curbs caused a 30% drop in digital sector jobs and monthly losses of 15 trillion tomans. Over 10 million Iranians depend on the digital economy, which was crippled by state-imposed outages during the war. Over 20,000 cyberattacks and banking system disruptions further damaged infrastructure, with officials blaming security agencies for limiting access.
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★ IRAQ
Rubio Pressures Iraq Over Militia Law and Attacks on US Energy Companies
On Tuesday US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called Iraq’s Prime Minister al-Sudani to warn of critical events against U.S. interests taking place in Iraq. Rubio demanded Iraqi accountability for recent attacks targeting U.S. company energy infrastructure in the Kurdistan Region, Salahuddin, and Kirkuk. Rubio also signalled opposition to a pending Iraqi law on the Popular Mobilization Commission that would institutionalize Iranian influence and armed terrorist groups. The PMC bill threatens to legitimize Iranian proxy control over Iraqi military apparatus while energy attacks directly target American commercial operations and strategic pipeline access to Mediterranean markets. Finally, Rubio pressed Sudani for the urgent reopening of the Iraq-Türkiye Pipeline to Ceyhan port and for consistent Kurdistan Region salary payments to protect U.S. investments.
Iraq Launches Fiscal Reform Plan to Cut Oil Dependence
Iraq is executing broad reforms to diversify revenue sources and reduce oil dependence, according to PM adviser Mudhhir Mohammed Saleh. Efforts include tax system automation, border customs digitization, improved public service fees, telecom levies, and local bond issuance. The government also aims to revive stalled projects, restructure public firms, and attract investment through enhanced financial governance.
Iraq Approves Global Gold City Project in Baghdad to Boost Industry
Iraq’s Economic Ministerial Council approved a plan to establish the Global Gold City in Baghdad, aiming to localize gold and jewelry production. The project includes industrial units, training centers, markets, and a gold exchange. It will be built within Baghdad’s economic zone to support private sector growth, create jobs, and position the capital as a regional gold trade hub.
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★ SYRIA
Turkish Foreign Minister Threatens War Over Syrian Territorial Future
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned Tuesday that Türkiye would launch military action against any attempt to divide Syria, declaring it a direct national security threat. He blamed Israel for unrest in Suwayda and claimed Ankara helped de-escalate Israeli strikes. Fidan pledged support for a “post-Assad government” and asserted Türkiye’s role in shaping Syria’s future. He threatened intervention if Kurdish autonomy or territorial changes would proceed, implying that Syria’s unity falls under Ankara’s authority. While calling for regional cooperation, Fidan’s remarks underscored Türkiye’s intent to use force to dictate outcomes inside sovereign Syrian territory. The SDF refuses disarmament, citing ongoing threats. The US opposes SDF autonomy demands, backing Syrian unity. Talks with Western and Syrian officials this month yielded no progress, despite prior agreements on joint control of military and energy sites.
US to Host Israeli-Syrian Security Meeting Thursday: Axios
US envoy Tom Barrack will lead a high-level meeting Thursday between Israeli and Syrian officials to discuss southern Syria’s security. Axios reports the talks aim to boost coordination and communication, though the venue remains undisclosed. The meeting reflects growing US mediation efforts as regional instability and shifting military dynamics persist.
US Pressures Syria’s Sharaa to Adapt After Sectarian Killings
US envoy Thomas Barrack urged Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to swiftly shift policies toward inclusivity after mass sectarian killings in Sweida, warning failure would fragment Syria and end foreign support. Barrack advised reviving pre-war army structures, ending Islamist indoctrination, and seeking regional security help. He denied Syrian troops were behind Druze civilian killings, blaming disguised ISIS elements, and stressed the U.S.-brokered July 13 ceasefire as critical amid Israeli airstrikes that halted government assaults on Druze. Barrack warned Syria faced collapse with no successor to Sharaa, and urged Israel to engage diplomatically, affirming the US would act as mediator.
US Confirms American Citizen Killed in Syria’s Sweida Clashes
The US confirmed the death of American citizen Hossam Saraya in Sweida last week, as deadly clashes killed 558 and displaced over 128,000. Saraya appeared in a video being shot, relatives said. Syria’s Defense Ministry condemned violations by uniformed personnel. Local armed groups remain mobilized as tensions persist in the Druze-majority region.
Saudi Delegation Arrives in Damascus to Launch Investment Forum
A high-level Saudi delegation led by Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih arrived in Damascus on Wednesday to launch the Saudi-Syrian Investment Forum, following Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s directive. Over 130 Saudi businessmen joined the visit to explore joint opportunities, launch a cement plant in Adra, and revive economic ties. The forum aims to support Syria’s recovery and deepen bilateral cooperation.
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★ ISRAEL
Israel Denies Gaza Famine Claims, Blames UN Aid Distribution
Israel rejects international famine allegations in Gaza, citing 950 aid trucks awaiting UN collection at border crossings. COGAT attributes the humanitarian crisis to UN distribution delays, Hamas obstruction, and civilian looting rather than Israeli restrictions. Only 30 of 70 approved trucks moved July 22 despite Israeli clearance. The UN reports 1,054 Palestinians killed near aid distribution sites since May, while Hamas claims 20 starvation deaths in 48 hours. Over 100 NGOs demand immediate ceasefire and crossing access, with Amnesty and Oxfam accusing Israel of weaponizing starvation. Israeli officials blame Hamas for exploiting civilian suffering in hostage negotiations. UN agencies report Gaza health system collapse with 94% of facilities damaged. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff will travel to Europe for humanitarian corridor discussions.
DOJ Seizes Crypto Linked To Gaza Firm Funding Hamas
The U.S. Justice Department filed a forfeiture claim on $2 million in cryptocurrency held in Tether and Binance accounts linked to Gaza’s BuyCash company, which financed Hamas, ISIS, and al-Qaeda affiliates. Authorities said $4 million was funneled before and after October 7 to support Hamas, with BuyCash’s owner, Ahmed al-Qad, facilitating the transfers. U.S. officials said the action aims to shut down terror-linked digital financing networks.
Mediators Reject Hamas Response, Demand Key Ceasefire Amendments
Qatari and Egyptian mediators received Hamas’s response to the latest Gaza truce proposal but deemed it unsatisfactory, demanding several amendments. Israel labeled the reply disappointing but signaled talks could progress if improved. Disputes remain over IDF withdrawal terms. A short-term 60-day deal involving hostage and prisoner exchanges is reportedly near, pending Hamas’ flexibility.
Israeli Leftist Arrested for Plotting Netanyahu Assassination
Shin Bet arrested a 70-year-old leftist woman activist from central Israel for plotting to assassinate Prime Minister Netanyahu using an improvised explosive device, in coordination with others. She was released under tight restrictions but faces indictment Thursday for conspiracy to commit a crime and a terrorist act. The suspect had previously participated in anti-government protests where assassination threats were made.
Sinwar’s Widow Reportedly Escapes Gaza and Remarries in Turkey
As Gaza reels from war and humanitarian crisis, reports claim Samar Abu Zamer, widow of Hamas commander Yahya Sinwar, fled Gaza via Rafah with a fake passport and cash, later remarrying in Turkey. Her escape, along with other Hamas leaders’ families, has fueled public anger over perceived elitism and abandonment, contrasting with residents’ ongoing suffering under siege.
Islamic Jihad Claims It Lost Contact With Captors of Israeli Hostage Rom Braslavski
Islamic Jihad said it lost contact with those holding Israeli hostage Rom Braslavski after an IDF operation in Deir al-Balah. Braslavski, kidnapped from the Nova festival, is among 50 hostages in Gaza. His family, demanding answers, criticized Israel’s leadership for a lack of updates and risking the hostages’ lives as ceasefire negotiations continue in Qatar.
Israeli Troop Deaths And Suicides Surge In Gaza War
A surge in military suicides has triggered urgent scrutiny. July alone saw multiple cases, including reservist Daniel Edri and lone soldier Dan Phillipson. With 38 suspected suicides since 2023 and a sharp rise in psychological support requests, experts and lawmakers are demanding transparent reforms and immediate PTSD response measures. The toll of war is now measured in both operational strain and psychological collapse, exposing cracks in Israel’s combat resilience. Since the last ceasefire collapsed, 44 soldiers have been killed in Gaza due to guerrilla ambushes, friendly fire, and operational errors.
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★ TÜRKIYE
Erdoğan: Türkiye Must Boost Defense as Global Power Shifts
President Erdoğan said Türkiye is “compelled” to expand its defense capabilities as global dynamics shift, emphasizing domestic production at IDEF 2025. Türkiye now meets most military needs locally, with exports hitting $7.5 billion. Erdoğan highlighted drone success, reduced foreign dependence, and readiness for long-term defense partnerships to elevate Türkiye’s global role in security and defense industries.
Türkiye Advances Eurofighter Jet Deal With UK, Enhancing Defense Ties
Türkiye and the UK signed a memorandum enabling Türkiye’s future use of Eurofighter Typhoons, moving closer to Ankara’s purchase of 40 jets. The MoU follows Erdoğan’s call with UK Prime Minister Starmer and Germany’s reported clearance of the sale. Ongoing negotiations signal strengthened defense cooperation between Türkiye, Britain, and other Eurofighter partners.
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★ LEBANON
Hezbollah Rejects Disarmament as Lebanese State Pushes for Monopoly on Arms
Hezbollah told Speaker Nabih Berri it will not disarm, even if Israel withdraws, prompting state anger over lost diplomatic momentum. U.S. envoy Tom Barrack, on a third Beirut visit, received Lebanon’s reply to U.S. proposals on enforcing arms control. The Lebanese government insists on reclaiming sole authority over weapons, while Washington demands a disarmament timeline before year’s end.
Israeli Unit Raids South Lebanon, Questions Syrians and Locals
An Israeli infantry unit raided the Reihana area near Abbasiya early Wednesday, searched homes, and interrogated Lebanese residents and Syrian workers, briefly detaining two. Despite the November 2024 US-brokered ceasefire, Israel continues strikes, citing Hezbollah threats. The truce mandates Hezbollah’s withdrawal south of the Litani River and Israeli pullback, though key hill positions remain contested.
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★ YEMEN
US Imposes New Sanctions on Houthis’ Petroleum Smuggling Network
The US imposed fresh sanctions on two individuals and five entities tied to a Houthi petroleum smuggling and laundering network spanning Yemen and the UAE, accusing them of generating hundreds of millions annually for the Iran-backed group. The move follows continued Houthi drone and missile attacks on Israel and recent Israeli airstrikes on Houthi infrastructure at Yemen’s Hodeida port.
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★ Disclaimer: The Early Phoenix is a digest of various news sources compiled by the Early Phoenix team and edited by Rania Kisar. The items are curated, concise summaries of news items hyperlinked within each story. The items and summaries presented do not necessarily represent the views of the American Center for Levant Studies.
