★ THE GULF
The Houthis attack Najran Airport and facilities belonging to Saudi Aramco
Yemen’s Houthis claimed they launched two drone attacks on targets in Saudi Arabia’s Najran, including the airport and an Aramco facility. Military spokesperson Yahya Saree described them as sensitive targets. Saudi Arabia had not immediately confirmed the attacks, according to Reuters.
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★ U.S.A
Through Economic Sanctions, Washington Vows to Topple Iran’s Regime
The US will impose what Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called the “toughest sanctions in history” on Iran, with details expected Monday. Bessent said maximum economic pressure could reduce the need for major military operations. Washington is also seeking China’s cooperation in isolating Tehran.
US Tightens Sanctions and Reclassifies Hezbollah as Iranian Proxy
The US is set to redesignate Hezbollah as an Iranian proxy under the IRGC-Quds Force while making its disarmament central to Lebanon’s sovereignty and stability. Separately, Treasury sanctioned 10 individuals linked to a network allegedly moving hundreds of millions of dollars between Lebanon, Türkiye, and Iran through couriers, exchange firms, shell companies, and bank accounts. To bypass sanctions and transfer Iranian-backed funds to Hezbollah.
US Imposes New Sanctions on Iran
The US imposed sanctions on 21 individuals, 16 companies, and 10 vessels linked to Iran. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned countries trading with Tehran of possible action, urged China to align with Washington’s strategy, and said maximum economic pressure could reduce the need for major military operations.
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★ IRAQ
Iraqi Faction Hands Over Iranian-Made Drones to Government
An Iraqi armed faction handed over about 20 Iranian-made drones and missiles to the government near Baghdad, in the presence of US representatives. The move supports efforts to place weapons under state control amid US pressure, while Iran-aligned factions including Kataib Hezbollah and Harakat al-Nujaba continue to reject disarmament.
Iraqi PM Rules Out Second Term, Vows to Consolidate State Authority
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zeidi pledged to complete efforts to place all weapons under state control, rule out military confrontation, and continue fighting corruption. He also ruled out seeking a second term, saying reforms would benefit future governments, while stressing Iraq’s role as a regional bridge for dialogue and cooperation.
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★ IRAN
Iran Prepares to Face Trump’s Economic “Landing”
Iran vowed to resist President Donald Trump’s campaign targeting its financial, oil and trade channels. Tehran called the sanctions “economic terrorism,” while officials warned of a response. Iran’s central bank chief confirmed oil exports had halted and expressed hope for renewed negotiations as Washington prepares tougher sanctions.
Hijacked Tanker Suspected of Ties to Iran’s Shadow Fleet
Somali pirates seized the Eritrean-flagged SIBU 1 off Yemen, diverting it toward Somalia. The New York Times reported the tanker may be linked to Iran’s shadow fleet and was sanctioned by the US last December. Tracking data showed it regularly delivered fuel to Houthi-controlled Ras Isa port.
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★LEBANON
Israeli Strikes and Explosions Hit Southern Lebanon
Israeli forces carried out airstrikes, artillery shelling, and explosions across southern Lebanon on Friday. Artillery targeted areas near Mifdoun, while airstrikes hit Mansouri and locations around Nabatieh al-Fawqa. Overnight, Israeli forces also carried out large explosions in Hadatha and Tayri, according to Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency.
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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.
