TOP HEADLINES:
- US Forces Destroy 10 Houthi Missiles and Drones from Yemen
- Nikki Haley Writes “Finish Them” on Israeli Rockets Aimed at South Lebanon
- Saudi Arabia Expels Iranian Media Team Sent for Hajj Coverage
- Israeli-Hezbollah Clashes: Drones Intercepted, Rockets Fired, Drone Campaign Launched
- Lebanese Forces Exile Syrians, Assad Forces Arrest Returnees
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★ ISRAEL & PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES
White House Clarifies Stance as Israel’s Actions in Rafah Escalate
The Biden administration stated that recent Israeli military activities in Rafah, Gaza, including a deadly airstrike and ground operations, do not violate U.S. red lines. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby emphasized that the U.S. is closely observing Israel’s investigation into the airstrike that resulted in at least 45 fatalities. The U.S. maintains that the operations were limited and did not involve large-scale military maneuvers that could heighten Israeli isolation internationally. The administration expects Israel to use precision munitions like the GBU-39 to minimize civilian casualties, reportedly used in the recent attack. The White House opposes a Republican-backed bill to sanction senior International Criminal Court (ICC) members following the court’s arrest warrants for Israeli leaders. Kirby emphasized that the administration believes the ICC lacks jurisdiction in this case and criticized the proposed sanctions as inappropriate. Despite some Congressional Democrats supporting legislative action, the White House argues against reversing President Biden’s decision to lift previous sanctions on the ICC. Kirby also clarified the U.S. stance on Israel’s actions in Rafah, stating they have not met the criteria for a “major ground operation.” Israeli forces have not stormed Rafah with large units or coordinated maneuvers against multiple targets, focusing instead on movements along the Philadelphia Corridor on Rafah’s outskirts to target Hamas. The attack on Rafah has drawn global condemnation, particularly after a deadly airstrike. President Biden has warned against a large-scale invasion without adequate civilian protection, and the International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to cease military actions in Rafah. Investigations by CNN and The New York Times confirm that Israel’s Rafah strike employed US-manufactured GBU-39 bombs, designed for precision and reduced civilian casualties. Despite their intended accuracy, the strike resulted in unintended noncombatant deaths. The IDF and US officials are examining the incident, with initial findings indicating secondary factors like ignited fuel tanks may have caused extensive fire.
IDF Presents Claims of Hamas Role in Rafah Incident
The IDF spokesperson has released further evidence suggesting Hamas’s involvement in the Rafah incident, which includes a conversation between two Gazans identifying Hamas ammunition at the site and satellite imagery indicating the presence of Hamas rocket launchers nearby. This claim strengthens the assertion that Hamas orchestrated the attack, reinforcing a pattern of deception followed by narrative manipulation. The spokesperson emphasizes that this incident is not isolated, highlighting a recurring strategy employed by Hamas throughout the conflict. They initially propagate falsehoods to shape the narrative, then address the aftermath to their advantage.
Israeli War Cabinet Divided Over Hamas Demand in Hostage Negotiations
Reports reveal a stark division within the Israeli war cabinet regarding Hamas’s demand for an end to the conflict as part of a hostage exchange. While some ministers advocate for negotiation flexibility, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vehemently opposes conceding to what he views as surrendering to the terror group. Talks are ongoing, with Israeli officials acknowledging the critical need for a resolution to secure the release of hostages. During these discussions, Western officials advise Israel to explore proposals encompassing a long-term ceasefire, Gaza’s reconstruction, and the exile of Hamas leaders. However, Netanyahu remains cautious, emphasizing national security concerns. Criticism mounts as various sources, including families of hostages and politicians, question the government’s approach, raising concerns about political motivations hindering progress.
US Gaza Pier Damaged by Heavy Seas
A temporary pier constructed by the US military to provide aid to Gaza has been rendered inoperative due to damage caused by heavy seas, with repairs expected to take at least a week, according to US officials. The pier, consisting of a floating dock and a causeway, was built to facilitate aid delivery to Palestinians in Gaza. However, a portion of the causeway broke away amidst rough weather conditions, necessitating removal for repairs in the Israeli port of Ashod.
Russian Embassy Rejects Haley’s Collusion Claims Following Israel Hayom Interview
The Russian Embassy in Israel vehemently denied former US Ambassador Nikki Haley’s claims that Russia provided intelligence to Hamas for the October 7 attacks on Israel. Haley, in an interview with Israel Hayom, suggested Russian intelligence aided Hamas, attributing the precise data used by Hamas terrorists during their assault to Russian involvement. The Embassy labeled Haley’s allegations as conspiracy theories and reiterated Russia’s denial of any involvement, criticizing her for spreading baseless accusations without evidence. The Embassy’s statement also dismissed Haley’s remarks as a rehash of old unfounded claims, likening her to Hillary Clinton’s past allegations against Russia.
Israeli Adviser Predicts Prolonged Gaza Conflict, Cites Border Control
Israel’s National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi announced that military operations in Gaza will extend through the year to dismantle Hamas and Islamic Jihad’s capabilities. Israel currently controls 75% of the Gaza-Egypt border zone, crucial for preventing militant smuggling. The Philadelphia axis, a key area under the Camp David peace agreement, remains a focus for Israeli security efforts. There has been no immediate response from Egypt regarding Israel’s actions. Hanegbi also emphasized the necessity of closing the Egypt-Gaza border, stating that Israel must rely on itself for protection.
Knesset Advances Bill to Designate UNRWA as Terrorist Organization
The Israeli Knesset has advanced a preliminary bill to classify the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) as a terrorist organization, spearheaded by Yisrael Beitenu MK Yulia Malinovsky. The bill mandates severing all ties with UNRWA, accusing it of collaborating with Hamas and involvement in the October 7 attacks. Additionally, a bill from Likud MK Dan Illouz aims to strip UNRWA of various immunities. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant reported that several UNRWA employees participated in Hamas activities, reinforcing calls for legislative action against the agency.
Gaza Death Toll Hits 36,171; 291 Israeli Soldiers Killed
The Palestinian Health Ministry reports that Gaza’s death toll has surged to 36,171, with 75 killed and 384 injured in the past 24 hours alone, as relentless Israeli attacks continue. Rescue efforts are hampered by ongoing hostilities, trapping many under rubble. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Amnesty International have called for an urgent ceasefire, but the Palestinian health minister noted no indication from Israel that the Rafah crossing will reopen soon, affecting aid deliveries. Israeli forces have detained 25 more Palestinians in the West Bank, totaling 8,935 since October. In Rafah, three Israeli soldiers from the Nahal Brigade’s 50th Battalion were killed by a blast in a booby-trapped building, bringing the total number of IDF soldiers killed in the current ground offensive to 291.
New Labor Party Leader Warns Israel Risks Becoming a Pariah State
Yair Golan, the newly elected head of the Israeli Labor Party, has warned that Israel is close to becoming a pariah state due to the policies of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. He emphasized the need for the government to secure the return of Israeli prisoners and suggested that halting the fighting could benefit Israel.
Historical Ties Between Iran and Israel Offer Hope for Future Reconciliation
The article by Ali M. Ansari in Foreign Affairs explores the historical ties between Iran and Israel, contrasting the deep cultural connections with the current extremist stance of the Iranian regime. It highlights the positive relationship from ancient times, such as the liberation of Jews by Persian king Cyrus the Great, to the unofficial yet significant cooperation during the Pahlavi dynasty. The 1979 Islamic Revolution shifted Iran’s stance to vehement hostility, supporting anti-Israel proxies and adopting anti-Zionist rhetoric. Despite recent tensions, including missile exchanges, ordinary Iranians show little support for the regime’s anti-Israel stance, focusing instead on domestic issues. The article argues that the shared history between Jews and Iranians offers a foundation for potential reconciliation, suggesting diplomatic engagement in post-Gaza peace talks could pave the way for normalization. The long-standing cultural affinity indicates that the current enmity is not deeply rooted and can be addressed by fostering a historically informed political perspective.
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★ IRAN
Iran to Modernize Homegrown Weapons
During a recent inspection of a mechanized brigade base in southeastern Iran, Army Ground Force Commander Brigadier General Kiomars Heidari highlighted the military’s collaboration with academic institutions to integrate advanced technologies. He emphasized the development of precision weapons with long-range capabilities, smart features, and network integration to enhance operational efficiency. This modernization aims to ensure rapid and decisive responses to threats. Ayatollah Khamenei, Iran’s leader, has called for continuous military readiness.
Iran’s Potential Nuclear Negotiator Opposed JCPOA Revival
Reports suggest Ali Shamkhani, an adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, may become the new chief nuclear negotiator. Shamkhani, a former secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, previously opposed reviving the JCPOA nuclear agreement. Mahmoud Vaezi, chief of staff to former President Rouhani, stated that Shamkhani’s stance hindered the deal’s revival. Highlighting these views could be an attempt to undermine Shamkhani’s potential appointment. Ultimately, Supreme Leader Khamenei will decide on all security and foreign policy matters, including Shamkhani’s role. The appointment, if confirmed, will indicate Khamenei’s direction for Iran’s nuclear policy.
Saudi Arabia Expels Iranian Media Team Sent for Hajj Coverage
Saudi Arabia expelled six members of an Iranian media team linked to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, accusing them of attempting to politicize the Hajj pilgrimage. The team was detained while filming at Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, where political activities are banned. Six Iranian journalists and a documentary maker, arrested while recording Quran recitations at Al-Nabi Mosque, have returned to Iran after brief detention in Saudi Arabia. They were taken to the Medina Central Police Detention Center after their arrest last Tuesday. IRIB head Jebeli stated they were performing their duties when detained. Two days later, Saudi police also arrested two additional Iranian journalists, including reporters from Al-Alam and IRIB, as they attended a prayer ceremony. Both were also transferred to the detention center before being released.
Iran’s Acting FM to Tour Regional States Following Rafah Massacre
Iran’s Acting Foreign Minister announced plans to tour regional states in response to Israel’s massacre in Rafah. Speaking after a cabinet session in Tehran on Wednesday, he emphasized the need for regional cooperation. Regarding Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman’s potential visit to Tehran, Bagheri Kani confirmed mutual invitations but noted that the visit’s timing remains undecided.
Key Candidates Emerge in Iran’s Presidential Elections
As Iran prepares for presidential elections on June 28, several notable figures have announced or are expected to announce their candidacies to succeed the late President Ebrahim Raisi. Among the contenders are former Supreme National Security Council head Ali Shamkhani, former parliament speaker Ali Larijani, and current president Mohammad Mokhber. Other candidates include parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Supreme National Security Council member Saeed Jalili, and reformist MP Masoud Pezeshkian. Additional potential candidates include former IRGC officer Parviz Fattah and former Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. All candidates must be approved by the Guardian Council.
Iranian Diplomat in US Threatens Iranian-American Activist
A US court has issued a temporary order against Ramezan Soltan-Mohammadi, an employee of Iran’s Interests Section in Washington, DC, after he threatened Iranian-American activist Siamak Aram at a rally. Aram reported that Soltan-Mohammadi made a throat-slitting gesture at him during a protest outside a memorial for Iranian officials in Maryland.
YouTube Deletes Iranian Foreign Ministry’s Account Over Video
YouTube has deleted the Iranian Foreign Ministry’s official channel after it posted a video supporting Hamas. The video, titled “Resistance is the only path to Palestine,” criticized Israel and praised Hamas’s actions against Israeli military bases and settlements on October 7. The exact reason for the deletion has not been officially announced by YouTube. This move follows a trend where social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, have removed content they deem supportive of Hamas, which they interpret as inciting violence or hatred.
Iran’s Sudan Intervention: A Strategic Move or Mere Arms Transfer?
Iran’s involvement in Sudan’s civil war has raised questions about its motives and potential outcomes. Initially providing humanitarian aid, Tehran escalated its support by supplying midrange Mohajer-6 drones to President Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). This intervention strategically aligns with Iran’s geopolitical goals, projecting power and countering regional rivals like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Israel. However, it risks alienating Sudan due to historical tensions and competing interests. While supporting al-Burhan’s faction may seem advantageous, victory is uncertain, and Iran’s Shiite identity clashes with Sudan’s Sunni-majority population. Moreover, Iran’s backing of the SAF contrasts with Russia’s support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), complicating its alliances. Ultimately, Iran’s Sudan intervention may signal a shift in bilateral relations or merely perpetuate conflict through foreign intervention.
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★ YEMEN
Tehran Provides Houthis with Sea-Launched Ballistic Missile
As the Houthis continue targeting cargo ships in the Red Sea, Iran’s Tasnim News Agency reported that Tehran has supplied them with a “Qader” sea-launched ballistic missile. This missile poses significant challenges to US and Israeli interests in the region. Iran has three types of Qader missiles, with the Qader F being a liquid-fueled variant capable of hitting targets up to 2,000 kilometers away. The US Defense Intelligence Agency noted that Iran has provided the Houthis with a variety of weapons, including ballistic and cruise missiles, since 2015, intercepting at least 18 smuggling attempts.
Houthis Claim to Target Six Ships Across Three Seas
Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed they targeted six ships in the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and Mediterranean Sea. The attacks, allegedly in retaliation for actions against Palestine, included severe damage to the Marshall Islands-flagged ship LAAX off the coast of Yemen. According to the Houthis, the operations utilized naval and ballistic missiles as well as drones, and targeted ships such as MOREA and Sealady in the Red Sea, ALBA and Maersk Hartford in the Arabian Sea, and Minerva Antonia in the Mediterranean. These attacks coincide with Iran’s admission of supplying the Houthis with a Mohsen ballistic missile, an advanced version of the Ghadr-101/110 missile.
US Forces Destroy 10 Houthi Missiles and Drones from Yemen
The US Central Command reported that three of five anti-ship ballistic missiles launched by Houthis from Yemen hit a Greek-owned cargo ship flying the Marshall Islands flag in the Red Sea. The M/V Laax, a Greek-owned cargo ship, was struck by three missiles but continued its voyage. Additionally, US Central Command successfully destroyed five drones over the Red Sea, launched from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. The Houthi group reported that American and British aircraft conducted two airstrikes on the Al-Jabbana area in Hodeidah, western Yemen, on Tuesday evening. This came after a British authority announced an attack on a ship in the Red Sea, which was damaged northwest of Mokha.
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★ THE GULF
South Korea and UAE Sign Partnership Agreement on Trade and Nuclear Energy
South Korea and the UAE signed a comprehensive economic partnership agreement and a memorandum of understanding on nuclear energy during a summit in Seoul. The UAE committed to building at least six liquefied natural gas carriers worth $1.5 billion with South Korea. Additionally, the UAE sovereign wealth fund pledged to invest $30 billion in South Korea. The summit included the signing of 19 trade deals covering investment, energy, defense, technology, climate change, and cultural exchange. This visit marks the first time an Emirati president has made a state visit to South Korea, highlighting deepening bilateral cooperation.
“Jazz Arabia” Secures 761 Million Riyal Contracts with Aramco
Jazz Arabian Services has signed two contracts with Aramco worth approximately 761 million riyals. The first contract, valued at 416 million riyals, involves engineering, supply, and construction for the main gas network expansion in the Eastern Province and Qassim region, set to last 30 months. The second contract, valued at 345 million riyals and lasting 40 months, covers similar work for the gas network expansion from Shedgum to the Aramco East-West Pumping Station-1. Both contracts are expected to positively impact Jazz Arabia’s financial statements from 2024 to 2027.
Abu Dhabi Development Fund Invests $9.6 Billion in Africa
Over four decades, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development has financed sustainable projects worth $9.6 billion in 42 African countries. This includes a $4.5 billion initiative in 2023 to boost Africa’s clean energy sector, in partnership with Africa 50 Group. The Fund focuses on infrastructure, clean energy, transport, communications, and ICT, improving access to essential services. Notable projects include the Mohammed bin Zayed Solar Park in Togo and a solar energy station in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The Fund collaborates with international financial institutions to drive economic growth and social progress across Africa.
Kuwait Boosts Refining Capacity to 1.83 Million Barrels per Day with Al-Zour Refinery
Kuwait announced an increase in its oil refining capacity to 1.83 million barrels per day following the full operation of its largest oil refinery, Al-Zour. The refinery, which faced a five-year delay due to the Covid-19 pandemic, began full operations last December. Contracts worth $13.2 billion were signed in 2015 to build the refinery, which now processes 615,000 barrels of oil per day. Kuwait’s Oil Minister, Imad Al-Ateeqi, highlighted that the internal refineries’ capacity is 1.415 million barrels per day, with the rest of Kuwait’s shares in international refineries. The refinery aims to reduce emissions and export high-quality oil derivatives globally.
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★ LEBANON
Nikki Haley Writes “Finish Them” on Israeli Rockets Aimed at South Lebanon
Former US ambassador Nikki Haley inscribed “Finish Them” on Israeli rockets reportedly destined for south Lebanon amid ongoing clashes with Hezbollah. Touring Israeli military sites at the Lebanon border, Haley, a strong supporter of Israel’s Gaza offensive, was accompanied by Knesset Member Danny Danon, who also wrote messages on the shells. Online reactions condemned her actions. Clashes between Hezbollah and Israel have killed over 400 people in Lebanon, including civilians and journalists.
Israeli-Hezbollah Clashes: Drones Intercepted, Rockets Fired, Drone Campaign Launched
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported that the Iron Dome system intercepted two drones entering Israeli airspace from Lebanon, following an earlier incident where another suspected drone from Lebanon was downed over the sea near Rosh Hanikra. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for destroying espionage equipment at the Israeli Raheb site and targeting Israeli soldiers at the Bayad Blida site. Israeli air defenses intercepted a suspicious aerial target over Ras Naqoura, while Israeli forces bombed rocket launch sites and attacked a Hezbollah military building in Naqoura. Rockets launched from Lebanon fell in open areas in Shtula, Western Galilee, without causing casualties. In response, Israeli forces dropped flares and incendiary bombs near the Blue Line and intensified air strikes and artillery shelling on southern Lebanon, targeting villages and towns. Hezbollah, as part of its “Support Front” for Gaza, retaliated by attacking Israeli sites and settlements, targeting Israeli soldiers in the Shtoula forest, and destroying spy equipment at the Israeli monk site. Shrapnel from the attacks fell near a Lebanese army center in Alma al-Shaab, and Israeli artillery hit areas around Al-Jebeen and Shehin. Meanwhile, Hezbollah launched a donation campaign, “March – Maysara,” to fund the purchase of missiles and drones for their battle against the Israeli army, raising security concerns and questions about its motives.
Nasrallah Reveals Information Security Measures in Hezbollah
In a brief speech marking the end of mourning for his mother, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah apologized for his absence at related ceremonies due to security reasons. He highlighted Hezbollah’s strict information security, noting he cannot use regular phones and relies on a limited internal network.
Criminal Gangs Intensify Syrian Kidnappings During Global Uncertainty
Lebanon faces a surge in kidnappings of Syrian refugees, with gangs exploiting their vulnerable situation. The recent abduction of Ahmed Al-Mutlaq highlights the brutality of these crimes, with captors demanding ransoms and subjecting victims to severe torture. Despite efforts from Lebanese security forces, many kidnappings go unaddressed, particularly when victims are moved to Syria. Human rights advocates call for greater accountability and protection for refugees, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated action to stop these heinous acts. Meanwhile, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati announced a coordinated plan involving Lebanon and Arab countries to manage Syrian refugees during the “Brussels 8” conference. The plan focuses on separating refugee issues from politics and creating safe zones in Syria for their return. Foreign Minister Abdullah Bouhabib secured agreements with Jordan, Iraq, and Egypt for a unified approach. Lebanon also reached an accord with the UNHCR to access refugee data, and the conference pledged €7.5 billion in aid for Syrians, with additional support for host countries. Despite these efforts, the EU maintains that Syria is not safe for refugee return.
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★ SYRIA
Syria Sees Surge in ISIS Attacks, Leaving 55 Dead
ISIS has intensified its attacks in Syria, carrying out 37 operations in the past month that resulted in 55 deaths, including soldiers and civilians. Despite claims of ISIS’s defeat in 2019, the group remains active, targeting regime forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). ISIS’s tactics include armed assaults, bombings, and kidnappings. Counter-operations by the SDF, backed by the International Coalition, and regime forces with Russian support have led to numerous arrests and some ISIS casualties. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights calls for international accountability for ISIS’s ongoing crimes.
Lebanese Forces Exile Syrians, Assad Forces Arrest Returnees
Over 400 Syrian refugees were abruptly deported from Lebanon by army forces, triggering fears of human rights violations. The deportation, conducted through raids and checkpoints, raised concerns about forced military conscription and arbitrary detention. Lebanese municipalities imposed new curfews and expelled Syrian tenants, causing Syrians to disperse. Meanwhile, the Syrian regime has been leading arrests campaigns towards those who are forced to return, sparking concerns over the human rights violations committed by the Lebanese government.
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★ IRAQ
Iranian Exports to Iraq Reach $12 Billion
Iran’s Department of Land Development and Regional Development in the Planning and Budgeting Organization revealed that Iranian exports to Iraq have amounted to approximately $12 billion, encompassing over 2,200 Iranian goods. A recent meeting focused on enhancing bilateral trade relations and attracting Iraqi investors highlighted the significant growth in Iranian exports to Iraq, which have increased 15-fold over the past 20 years. With Iraq possessing substantial foreign exchange reserves and oil wealth, Iran aims to strengthen commercial infrastructure, develop trade routes, and facilitate business investments to further bolster trade relations. The meeting also discussed Iran’s priority activities in Iraq, including importing oil for distribution and creating job opportunities for Iraqi youth through retail networks and industrial cooperation.
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★ EGYPT
Ceasefire in Gaza Tops Discussions Between Sisi and Chinese President
In Beijing, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza, condemning the Israeli military operations in Palestinian Rafah. They rejected the forced displacement of Palestinians and reiterated the importance of the two-state solution for regional peace. The two leaders witnessed the signing of cooperation agree El-Sisi also highlighted the priority of Egyptian water security. ments, including a joint development plan for the Belt and Road Initiative and collaborations in technology and innovation. El-Sisi also met with Zhao Lijie, underscoring the strong momentum in Egyptian-Chinese relations.
Egypt and China Strengthen Cooperation in Beijing Visit
During President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi’s visit to Beijing, Egypt and China signed agreements deepening their cooperation, marking the 10th anniversary of their comprehensive strategic partnership. The agreements encompass collaboration in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, focusing on transportation, energy, and infrastructure projects. With China’s significant investments in Egyptian state projects like the Suez Canal Economic Zone and the new Administrative Capital, bilateral investments totaled approximately $14 billion in 2023. Discussions also addressed regional stability amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, although details were not provided in the statement released by the Egyptian presidency.
South Korean Ambassador Foresees Egypt’s Electronics Industry Rise
The Korean Promotion, Investment and Trade Agency in Egypt (KOTRA) organized a seminar highlighting the burgeoning partnership between South Korea and Egypt in the electronics industry. Ambassador Kim Young-hyun emphasized South Korea’s global leadership in electronics and Egypt’s potential to become a regional and global center for the industry through initiatives like the Egypt Manufactures Electronics (EME) initiative. The symposium aimed to enhance cooperation in the electronic devices sector, with discussions focusing on investment incentives, industry trends, and the EME initiative’s role in Egypt’s economic growth. As part of the visit, the Korean trade delegation will tour an Egyptian factory to explore opportunities for collaboration in supplying the market with feed industry supplies for electronic device manufacturing.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkiye Seeks Joint Action with Assad Against SDF in Syria
President Erdogan emphasized zero tolerance for threats to national security or regional integrity, reviewing operations against PKK, and YPG, with plans to eliminate these groups after the announcement of soon to take place general municipality elections. Devlet Bahceli, leader of Turkey’s National Movement Party, called for coordination with the Assad regime to counter the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). He criticized the SDF for conducting municipal elections in northeastern Syria, labeling them as attempts to divide the country under the guise of democracy and accusing the United States of supporting these elections. The Kurdish National Council in Syria boycotted the elections, citing their illegitimacy, while the Democratic Union Party viewed them as a step toward unity. The Autonomous Administration postponed the elections to June 11 for better preparation and adherence to electoral laws.
Erdogan Calls Netanyahu a ‘Psychopath’ Over Gaza Bloodshed
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemns Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu as a “psychopath” after the recent attack on Rafah in Gaza, accusing the US and Europe of complicity. Erdogan criticized their silence on Israeli actions, urging decisive action from the Islamic world and praising countries like Spain, Ireland, and Norway for recognizing Palestine. He highlighted the UN’s failure to protect its employees in Gaza and called for immediate international intervention to halt the massacres. Erdogan emphasized the need for global unity to end the violence and hold Israel accountable under international law.
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📌 In case you missed it,
📰 THE EARLY PHOENIX May 28, 2024
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