★ IRAN

1. The Third Round of Iranian-American Talks Begins

The third round of indirect Iran-US nuclear talks began in Geneva, mediated by Oman, aiming to resolve disputes over Tehran’s nuclear program and avoid U.S. strikes. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Omani counterpart Badr Al Busaidi discussed sanctions relief and Iran’s peaceful nuclear rights, while Washington emphasized technical and missile safeguards amid rising military and diplomatic pressure in the region.

2. Iran Readies Billion‑Dollar Energy Incentives to Boost Geneva Nuclear Talks

Iran is reportedly preparing a major economic proposal, potentially offering U.S. oil, gas, and mineral investment opportunities worth billions to entice Washington toward a diplomatic nuclear deal instead of military action.

3. US Imposes New Sanctions on Iran Over Oil and Weapons

The U.S. Treasury sanctioned over 30 individuals, entities, and “shadow fleet” vessels supporting Iran’s illicit oil sales, ballistic missiles, and weapons production. Targets include networks aiding the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Defense Ministry in acquiring missile components. The move follows President Trump’s efforts to pressure Iran economically and militarily amid nuclear disputes, while Tehran insists its nuclear work is civilian.

4. World Capitals Rush to Evacuate Citizens From Iran

Several countries urged citizens to leave Iran and withdrew diplomats’ families amid fears of a potential U.S. strike on Tehran, as talks resume in Geneva. Donald Trump accused Iran of pursuing nuclear weapons, while Washington reinforced forces in the Gulf. Nations, including the U.S., Australia, Germany, India, and others, issued travel warnings.

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★ ISRAEL

5. US, Israeli Forces Bolstered During Geneva Talks on Iran

As indirect US–Iran nuclear talks resumed in Geneva, footage showed the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford leaving Crete for the eastern Mediterranean, while Israeli Air Force base images revealed 11 F-22s and a Patriot battery. Reports suggest a potential joint US–Israeli strike remains under consideration.

6. Israel Delivers BlueWhale Autonomous Spy Sub to Germany

State-owned Israel Aerospace Industries and Thyssenkrupp delivered the BlueWhale autonomous submarine to the German Navy at Eckernförde naval base. Designed for anti-submarine warfare and covert missions, the system was tested in the Baltic Sea and features advanced sonar, radar, and intelligence-gathering capabilities.

7. Iran-Linked Hackers Claim Breach of Israel’s Largest Health Network

A hacking group called “Hanzala” announced it accessed Clalit Health Services systems, exposing sensitive medical data of over 10,000 patients. The group framed the attack as retaliation for Israeli policies. Clalit said investigations are ongoing, systems remain operational, and precautionary security measures have been activated.

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★IRAQ

8. Iran Resumes Gas Supplies to Iraq for Power Plants

Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity announced the resumption of Iranian gas deliveries at seven million cubic feet per day, after December’s halt reduced output by 5 GW. Iran provides 30–40% of Iraq’s gas and electricity needs. Iraq plans talks in Tehran to secure summer supplies, aiming to meet a 25 GW demand with the current 19 GW output.

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★SYRIA

9. Syria and Druze Factions Conduct First Prisoner Swap in Sweida

Syrian government forces and Druze factions in Sweida carried out their first prisoner exchange since the deadly July clashes, releasing 61 Druze detainees in return for 25 government personnel. Facilitated by the ICRC and U.S. non-profit Tim Ballard Foundation, the swap aims to foster further releases and dialogue, while Sweida province remains largely outside government control.

10. IMF Approves Aid Program for Syria, Reports 2025 Budget Surplus

The International Monetary Fund approved a technical assistance program for Syria, noting accelerating economic recovery driven by rising confidence, returning refugees, increased electricity, and regional reintegration. Preliminary data show a slight 2025 budget surplus, while 2026 plans focus on health, education, infrastructure, and social protection, supported by disciplined monetary policy and banking reforms.

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★THE GULF

11. South Korea, UAE Sign $35 Billion Defence Cooperation MOU

South Korea and the United Arab Emirates signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance defence cooperation worth over $35 billion, covering air, naval, and anti-air defence projects, presidential envoy Kang Hoon-sik said, highlighting a major strategic partnership between the two nations in military technology and regional security collaboration.

12. Saudi Arabia Allocates $346 Million to Yemen

Reuters reported Wednesday that Saudi Arabia will provide 1.3 billion riyals ($346 million) to support Yemen’s government, covering salaries and the budget deficit. The grant is part of ongoing aid to stabilize state institutions, with earlier plans indicating at least $3 billion this year for wages.

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★ Disclaimer: This publication 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.