★USA
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US-Iran Draft Deal Links Nuclear Freeze Sanctions Relief
US envoys are reportedly negotiating a 14-point memorandum with Iran to end the conflict and launch 30-day talks. proposes easing of maritime restrictions, with meetings possibly in Islamabad or Geneva. It includes freezing uranium enrichment for 12–15 years, inspections, removal of highly enriched stockpiles, and sanctions relief. Trump warned of renewed bombing if talks fail while Iran remains cautious.
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Trump Says Iran War Will End Very Soon Indeed
US President Donald Trump said the war with Iran could end quickly as negotiations advance over nuclear restrictions and regional tensions. He said recent talks were “very good” and a deal is close, insisting Iran must not obtain nuclear weapons. Trump denied a uranium transfer clause and warned of renewed strikes if no agreement is reached.
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★IRAN
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Iran’s Economy Collapses Under Sanctions Blockade And Inflation Surge
Iran’s economy is deteriorating under US sanctions and a blockade on ports and oil exports, with inflation at 73.5% and food prices up 115%. The rial has fallen to about 1.9 million per dollar, while the minimum wage stays near $92 monthly. Officials report severe job losses, production damage, and continued digital disruptions.
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★LEBANON
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Israel Strikes Hezbollah Commander In First Beirut Attack Since Ceasefire
Israel carried out its first Beirut airstrike in nearly a month, targeting Hezbollah Radwan Force commander Malek Ballout, according to Israeli officials and Hezbollah sources. The strike followed escalating cross-border clashes that injured seven Israeli soldiers in Hezbollah drone attacks. Israel also launched strikes across southern Lebanon after evacuation warnings, while ceasefire efforts between both sides continued to deteriorate.
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Israeli Army Reports Four Soldiers Injured in Southern Lebanon Attack
Israeli army said four soldiers were injured, including one seriously, on Wednesday in southern Lebanon after a drone carrying explosives struck their position. The wounded were evacuated to the hospital for treatment, and their families were informed, according to military spokesperson statements reported by Yedioth Ahronoth.
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★THE GULF
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Saudi Pressure Forced Trump To Pause Hormuz Escort Mission
Saudi Arabia reportedly denied US access to its airspace and Prince Sultan Airbase for Project Freedom, pressuring President Donald Trump to pause the Strait of Hormuz escort operation. NBC News cited US officials saying Trump failed to reverse the decision in talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, while Gulf allies and Oman said coordination on the mission followed its public announcement.
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Saudi and Iranian Foreign Ministers Discuss Regional Security And Stability
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to discuss the latest regional developments and ongoing efforts to maintain security and stability. Both sides reviewed key updates and emphasized strengthening cooperation to support regional peace and balance amid current geopolitical challenges.
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Netanyahu Condemns Iranian Strikes On UAE In Phone Call
Netanyahu condemned Iranian attacks on UAE civilians and infrastructure in a call with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, reaffirming Israeli support, the Israeli Embassy said. UAE air defenses intercepted multiple missiles and drones, causing limited damage and injuries. Jordan’s King Abdullah II and Kurdistan PM Masrour Barzani also held solidarity calls with UAE leadership.
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★IRAQ
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Washington Conditions Iraq Support On Excluding Iran-Backed Militias Institutions
Washington tied support for Baghdad to “tangible measures” excluding Iran-backed armed groups from state institutions, AFP reported, citing a senior US official. PM-designate Ali Al-Zaydi was urged to clarify state–militia boundaries and cut budget funding and salaries. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth discussed coordination, while Washington offered $10m for Akram al-Kaabi of Nujaba.
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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.
