★ IRAN
Iranian Guards Claim Strike on US Radar Site in Bahrain
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they targeted a US early-warning radar in Bahrain in retaliation for an alleged airstrike on a telecommunications tower in southern Iran. The claim marks the first reported targeting of US military assets in a Gulf country since early September, amid a fragile lull in the conflict. Neither Washington nor Manama immediately commented.
Trump Abandons Iran Deal, Maintains Naval Blockade
US President Donald Trump abandoned efforts for an agreement with Iran, reaffirming the blockade and shifting Vice President JD Vance away from negotiations. Tehran responded with threats of expanded missile strikes and new military capabilities, while officials reaffirmed strict conditions for talks. Pakistan urged dialogue and restraint amid growing regional tensions.
LNG Tanker Explodes After Hitting Naval Mine in Hormuz
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard reported that an LNG tanker struck a naval mine and exploded in the Strait of Hormuz while navigating an allegedly unauthorized route. The incident follows explosions involving four oil tankers on Wednesday and Thursday, with at least 10 vessels attacked in November, compared with 37 in October.
Iran Warns of Winter Gas Shortages as Supply Deficit Deepens
Iran warned that winter gas shortages could trigger supply cuts in Tehran, with the deficit expected to reach 430 million cubic meters. Damage to four processing facilities has reduced capacity, while authorities plan to prioritize households and power plants, shift industries to alternative fuels, and curb consumption, threatening industrial output and exports.
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★ YEMEN
UN Security Council Renews Sanctions on Houthis and Targets Arms Supplies
The UN Security Council unanimously renewed sanctions on the Houthis until November 2027, extending asset freezes and travel bans while targeting their access to drone and missile components. The resolution calls for stronger international cooperation against arms smuggling, monitors the group’s financial revenues, and condemns attacks on Saudi Arabia and commercial shipping. Russia and China raised concerns over certain measures.
Houthis Claim Attacks on Key Saudi Oil Infrastructure Sites
Yemen’s Houthis claimed attacks on Saudi Arabia’s East-West pipeline pumping station, a Yanbu oil facility, and an Aramco building in Riyadh. Saudi forces reported intercepting two drones. The escalation threatens vital oil exports amid Hormuz disruptions, while the Houthis denied targeting Mecca with ballistic missiles.
Yemeni Army Reports 703 Operations Against Houthis Across Frontlines
Yemen’s government forces reported conducting 703 air and ground operations against Houthi positions, claiming 219 fighters were killed, wounded, or fled, and 103 vehicles and equipment were damaged or destroyed. The operations included airstrikes, drone attacks, rockets, and artillery across several provinces under the “Dawn of Yemen” campaign.
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★ ISRAEL
Washington Warns Israel to Prepare for Possible War With Iran
The US Central Command has urged Israeli military representatives to prepare for possible renewed operations against Iran, according to Israeli media. Washington is reinforcing its regional presence with refueling aircraft, warships, and thousands of troops, despite President Trump publicly dismissing renewed strikes. The warning comes amid Israeli security disagreements over escalation risks.
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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.