★USA

1. U.S. Envoy Brokers Sweida Accord, Syria-Israel Talks Accelerate

Washington confirmed envoy Tom Barrack mediated a preliminary Damascus-Sweida ceasefire and reconciliation accord with Druze factions, backed by Syrian, Jordanian, and U.S. officials. A tripartite task force will oversee implementation, though armed group resistance and Israeli operations threaten stability. Separately, Reuters reports Syria and Israel, under U.S. pressure, are advancing talks on a limited security pact before the UN General Assembly. Negotiations in Abu Dhabi, Baku, and Paris focus on Israeli withdrawal from seized Syrian land, restoring a 1974 buffer zone, and halting strikes, excluding the Golan Heights. Officials warn of mistrust and Israeli reluctance.

2. Arab Media, Islamic Outlets Condemn Charlie Kirk Assassination

Arab and Islamic media widely condemned Charlie Kirk’s assassination, reporting regional mourning and official condemnations. Simultaneously, outlets and influencers amplified unverified conspiracy claims alleging Israeli involvement or political motives, with some coverage labeling these as “reports.” Regional reporting cited concerns about U.S. polarization, dehumanizing rhetoric, and possible foreign-policy reverberations.

============

★ISRAEL

3. Israel Launches Gaza City Offensive As Mass Evacuation Ordered

Israel struck 500 Hamas sites in Gaza City and began ground operations, ordering nearly one million civilians to evacuate; only 250,000 fled south. Airstrikes flattened residential towers and UN shelters, killing dozens and worsening famine and infrastructure collapse. Israel framed demolitions as targeting Hamas positions but gave civilians limited warning. Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned Hamas has only days or weeks to accept a ceasefire as Israel intensifies its push to seize the group’s last stronghold.

4. Israel Strikes Sana’a Port After Houthis Attack Ramon Airport

Israel confirmed twelve airstrikes near Houthi-held Sana’a port, targeting command centers, media outlets, and fuel storage after Houthi drones hit Ramon Airport and a Negev military site. Sirens sounded in Eilat warning of drone incursions; Israel reported intercepting another drone near the airport the same day. Houthi officials claimed civilian casualties, reporting 35 dead and 130 wounded, including journalists. Houthis said surface-to-air missiles briefly repelled aircraft and vowed escalation against Israel and regional interests.

5. EU Escalates Pressure As Spain Cancels Israeli Arms Deal

The European Commission confirmed sanctions suspending EU-Israel trade provisions over the Gaza war, while Spain canceled $1.1 billion in Israeli arms contracts and banned further military sales. Madrid’s move, led by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, sparked diplomatic fallout, and ambassador withdrawals. The sanctions package, set for adoption Wednesday, marks Brussels’ strongest collective response yet against Israel. 

6. Netanyahu Welcomes U.S. Delegation, Vows to Defeat Hamas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu received 250 bipartisan U.S. state legislators in Jerusalem, the largest such delegation ever, praising their presence after efforts by China, Qatar, and Iran to weaken the U.S.-Israel ties. Some U.S. lawmakers criticized or withdrew, while others defended the trip as critical for witnessing Israel’s security challenges firsthand.

============

★THE GULF

7. Doha Summit Endorses Collective Security, Urges Suspending Israel’s UN Membership

Qatar’s emergency Arab-Islamic summit concluded with unprecedented “collective security” provisions among 79 states, five days after Israeli strikes in Doha on Hamas leadership marked the Abraham Accords’ fifth anniversary. Leaders including Iran’s Masoud Pezeshkian, Turkey’s Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Iraq’s Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, and Palestine’s Mahmoud Abbas backed a draft resolution declaring an attack on one member “an attack on all Arab and Islamic countries.” The final communiqué condemned Israel’s “cowardly” Qatar strike, called for suspending its UN membership, urged halting arms transfers, and reviewed ties, while reaffirming Arab Peace Initiative commitments and praising Qatari, Egyptian, U.S., Saudi, and French mediation.

8. Doha Summit Urges Suspending Israel’s UN Membership

Qatar’s emergency Arab-Islamic summit concluded with unprecedented “collective security” provisions among 79 states, five days after Israeli strikes in Doha on Hamas leadership marked the Abraham Accords’ fifth anniversary. Leaders including Iran’s Masoud Pezeshkian, Turkey’s Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Iraq’s Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, and Palestine’s Mahmoud Abbas backed a draft resolution declaring an attack on one member “an attack on all Arab and Islamic countries.” The final communiqué condemned Israel’s “cowardly” Qatar strike, called for suspending its UN membership, urged halting arms transfers, and reviewed ties. Egypt’s Sisi revived his 2015 “joint Arab force” plan, but the statement reaffirmed the Arab Peace Initiative, praised mediation, and drew Trump’s caution as critics dismissed effectiveness.

9. Qatar, U.S. Nearing Enhanced Defence Deal After Israeli Strike

Qatar and the United States are close to finalizing an enhanced defence cooperation agreement, Secretary Rubio said, following Israel’s attack on Hamas leaders in Doha. Qatar, hosting the largest U.S. military base in the Middle East, continues its role as a mediator in the Gaza conflict alongside Egypt, despite condemning the strike as “cowardly and treacherous.”

 ============

★IRAN

10. Iran Threatens U.S. Troops, Vows To Close Hormuz Strait

Hardline Iranian officials Morteza Mahmoudi and Kayhan editor Hossein Shariatmadari threaten U.S. forces and say they may close the Strait of Hormuz. Mahmoudi claims threatening the lives of “at least 500” U.S. troops could alter American calculations, the parliamentarian stated. Shariatmadari says restricting passage would spike oil to $200 a barrel and punish “hostile” states. Analysts say closing Hormuz is unlikely and would invite UN condemnation and severe measures.

11. Iran Rejects Doha Summit’s Two-State Solution, Pushes Alternative

Iran rejected the Arab-Islamic summit’s Doha communique endorsing a two-state solution, insisting that only a single democratic state via referendum can resolve the Palestinian issue. Tehran accused U.S. policy of sustaining Israeli aggression, condemned Israeli “crimes,” and aligned with Houthi criticism of the summit’s “empty rhetoric,” while requesting its reservations be noted in the final report. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian urged Islamic unity against Israel’s attacks, condemned U.S. and European support for Tel Aviv, and pledged to strengthen regional cooperation amid escalating violence and a deadly Israeli strike in Doha.

12. Iran, Pakistan Set $10b Trade Goal, Expand Economic Cooperation

Iran and Pakistan’s joint economic committee pledged to raise trade to $10 billion, with ministers highlighting plans for stronger banking ties, transport projects, renewable energy, agriculture, and digital innovation. Both sides stressed cultural and historical bonds, launched new business forums, and signed agricultural agreements, aiming to boost bilateral exchanges and regional connectivity despite existing infrastructure and geopolitical challenges.

13. US Seizes $585K Crypto from Iranian Tied to IRGC Drones

The US seized nearly $585,000 in Tether from Iranian national Mohammad Abedini, accused of aiding the IRGC’s drone and missile program through SDRA, which supplied navigation systems used in deadly attacks on US forces. Abedini, briefly detained in Italy in 2024, is also charged with smuggling sensitive US technology to Iran.

14. Iran, Allies Push IAEA Ban On Nuclear Site Attacks

Iran, backed by China, Russia, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Belarus, submitted a draft resolution to the IAEA conference banning attacks on safeguarded nuclear sites. The proposal reaffirms states’ right to peaceful nuclear energy and urges disputes be resolved diplomatically. The debate coincides with European moves to trigger UN snapback sanctions and Tehran’s pending cooperation deal with IAEA chief Rafael Grossi. Meanwhile, Iran’s Cairo agreement with the IAEA has split Tehran’s elite. Ultra-hardliners denounce it as a threat to national security and push for possible NPT withdrawal, while the Supreme National Security Council and a Revolutionary Guards–linked outlet defend it as legally authorized and strategically vital.

============

★LEBANON

15. Canada Warned of Hamas, Hezbollah Fundraising, Criminal Links

A Canadian Finance Department report revealed Hamas and Hezbollah exploit Canada’s open economy to raise funds via banks, charities, non-profits, cryptocurrencies, and criminal activity. Hezbollah also trades cars, drugs, and luxury goods, with proceeds sent to Lebanon. The report highlights trade-based money laundering, digital asset vulnerabilities, and global organized crime networks supporting terrorism.

16. Lebanon Seizes 6.5M Captagon Pills, 700kg Hashish

Lebanese authorities dismantled an international drug smuggling network, seizing 6.5 million Captagon pills and 720 kg of hashish, and arrested the ringleader and associates. The network, with links to Turkey, Australia, and Jordan, was planning to ship the drugs from Beirut port. Security efforts follow months of surveillance amid regional pressure to curb trafficking.

17. Starlink Satellite Internet Licensed for Lebanon’s Nationwide Coverage

Lebanon has officially granted Elon Musk’s Starlink a license to provide satellite internet services nationwide, addressing chronic infrastructure failures and internet shortages. Information Minister Paul Morcos announced the move following months of negotiations and a prior call between Musk and President Joseph Aoun. The Cabinet also approved long-delayed telecommunications and electricity regulatory authorities, key reforms demanded by international lenders. Lebanon’s state-owned electricity provider has cost the government nearly $40 billion since the civil war, worsening daily power outages and infrastructure collapse. Starlink aims initially to serve businesses at $100 monthly subscription.

18. Hezbollah Escalates Against Lebanese Government Over Exclusive Arms Policy

Hezbollah rejected Lebanon’s push for “exclusive state arms,” insisting its weapons are essential for national defense. The party’s MPs warned the government cannot protect citizens, framing disarmament as a threat to sovereignty. Meanwhile, officials caution that Hezbollah’s stance risks halting reconstruction and deepening Lebanon’s international isolation, with ultimate control over Hezbollah’s arsenal reportedly resting with Iran.

19. Beirut Port Explosion: Ship Owner Arrested in Sofia

Igor Grechushkin, owner of the ship carrying the ammonium nitrate that exploded in Beirut port in 2020, was arrested in Sofia, Bulgaria, under an Interpol red notice. He was placed in detention for up to 40 days while authorities reviewed extradition documents. The blast killed over 200 people and caused massive damage, with investigations ongoing in Lebanon.

============

★TURKIYE

20. Türkiye  Launches Initiative to Develop Domestic Nuclear Reactor

Türkiye announced a program inviting universities and researchers to develop a local nuclear reactor to enhance energy security, reduce foreign dependence, and support carbon emission reduction. The initiative complements the Akkuyu plant under construction with Russia, while Türkiye plans additional reactors and small modular reactors to reach 20 GW nuclear capacity by 2050.

21. Russia Proposes Buying Back S-400 Systems from Türkiye

Reports indicate Russia offered to repurchase the two S-400 air defense systems sold to Moscow by Türkiye in 2019 for $2.5 billion. Facing shortages, Russia seeks to restore its stock, while Türkiye is developing its own “Steel Shield” system and sees limited NATO-aligned use for the S-400s. No official statement has been issued yet.

22. Türkiye Detains Istanbul District Mayor in Corruption Probe

Turkish authorities ordered the detention of 48 suspects, including Bayrampasa Mayor Hasan Mutlu of the opposition CHP, in a corruption investigation involving embezzlement, bribery, and tender rigging. Raids were conducted at 72 locations. Mutlu denied wrongdoing, calling the probe a politically motivated attack amid a broader crackdown on CHP-run municipalities.

23. Türkiye Mediates Libya Government Accord with Armed Group

Libya’s U.N.-recognized government in Tripoli has reached a preliminary agreement with the Radaa Force to end months of tensions, facilitated by Türkiye. The deal includes a unified force managing four airports, including Mitiga, and transferring prisons under the Attorney General’s authority. Turkish and U.N. mediation was praised, highlighting Ankara’s growing regional influence and engagement with both Tripoli and Khalifa Haftar.

============

★EGYPT

24. Egypt Pushes Arab NATO Plan After Doha Attack Summit

Egypt proposed creating a joint Arab-Islamic force at the Doha summit, citing Israeli strikes in Gaza and regional threats. The plan envisions military coordination, shared resources, and a joint operations room. Several states welcomed the initiative as a show of solidarity, though practical mechanisms remain unresolved. Egypt also imposed unprecedented security measures around senior Palestinian figures in Cairo, including released prisoners from prior swap deals. Intelligence services now protect leaders from Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front under a clear warning to Israel and the U.S. that any attack on Egyptian soil will have severe consequences, signaling Cairo’s shift from neutral mediator to official Palestinian safe haven.

25. Egypt Signs $121M Oil and Gas Exploration Deals

Egypt’s Ministry of Petroleum signed three agreements to expand oil and gas exploration in the Western Desert, Gulf of Suez, and North Sinai, totaling over $121 million. Companies including Brenco Egypt, Dragon Oil, and Apache will drill multiple wells with signing bonuses. The deals aim to boost gas production, incentivize exports, and address Egypt’s daily gas deficit amid growing East Mediterranean exploration.

============

★IRAQ

26. U.S. Increases Iraq Military Aid As Russia Expands Baghdad Ties

Washington confirmed $61 million in aid to Kurdish Peshmerga and $48 million to Iraqi federal forces, totaling $109 million in 2026. The funding shift highlights U.S. confidence in Kurdish units and concerns over Baghdad’s fragmented security. Concurrently, Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu visited Baghdad for talks on arms contracts, joint defense systems, and weapons co-production. Shoigu invited Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa Al-Sudani to Moscow as part of efforts to restore military cooperation and expand Russia’s regional security role.

27. Iraq Signs Energy Deals with Total Energies, QatarEnergy, and Partners

Iraq’s oil ministry signed a joint operation agreement with TotalEnergies, QatarEnergy LNG, and Basra Oil Company to operate the Artawi oilfield under the Gas Growth Integrated Project, which includes gas recovery, power supply improvements, and renewable energy initiatives. TotalEnergies also partnered with ENKA, China’s PetroChina, and Hyundai to build oil, gas, and seawater treatment facilities, boosting foreign investment in Iraq.

28. Iraq, Syria Border Trade Deal Faces Asaib Ahl al-Haq Defiance

Iraq and Syria reached an initial accord to reopen the Al-Waleed crossing, enabling trade expansion with strict security checks. Iraqi officials emphasized the deal’s economic potential, while U.S. concerns focus on sanctions evasion and illicit transfers along Iraq’s western frontier. Separately, Iraqi lawmaker Mohammed al-Baldawi, tied to Asaib Ahl al-Haq, rejected ties with Syria under Ahmad al Sharaa, alleging U.S.-Israeli support for terrorism. Badr leader Mokhtar al-Moussawi said Iraqi forces rely on Popular Mobilization Forces to secure the Syrian border, warning withdrawal would leave positions undefended.

============

★ 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.