Top Headlines:
- McGurk’s Secret Iran Talks Continue, Confirms Bagheri
- Qaani Claims Visit to Resistance Fronts to Pledge More Support
- Russian Soldier Kidnapped, Explosion Injures Another in Syria
- Erdogan Vows to Veto NATO-Israel Cooperation
- Merchant Ship Reports Explosions Near Mocha, Yemen
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★ ISRAEL & PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES
Israel Unveils Roem: Revolutionary Artillery System Enhancing IDF
Israel has introduced the Roem, a cutting-edge artillery system designed to enhance the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Developed by Elbit Systems, the Roem replaces the M109 howitzer with an automated gun mounted on a wheeled vehicle, offering superior mobility and efficiency. Its firing rate is double that of the M109, significantly boosting firepower and maneuverability. The Roem will be integrated into the IDF’s 282nd Artillery Brigade, complementing Israel’s broader technological advancements such as F-35 jets and Eitan APCs, thereby strengthening the IDF’s overall combat capabilities.
IDF Withdraws from Gaza City: Rafah Remains Active
IDF forces have withdrawn from southwest Gaza City, including Tel el Hawa, the UNRWA headquarters area, and the Sabra neighborhood. 60 bodies from the area of Tel el Hawa and Sanaa in the southwest of Gaza were rescued. Tanks remain in “Abu Mazen Square” and the Ansar area. Recent footage from the UNRWA headquarters shows the aftermath. In Shejaiya, 85% of homes and infrastructure were destroyed, labeling it a “disaster zone” after IDF forces left. With Shejaiya now clear of IDF presence, Rafah in the south remains the only active combat zone, though Palestinian reports indicate low-intensity activity there.
IDF Kills Deputy Commander of Hamas’s Shejaiya Battalion
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced the death of Ayman Shweidah, deputy commander of Hamas’s Shejaiya Battalion, in a recent airstrike in Gaza City. Shweidah was involved in the October 7 attacks and subsequent assaults on IDF troops. The strike also killed Ubadah Abu Hain, a prominent company commander in the Shejaiya Battalion. The 98th Division concluded a two-week operation in Shejaiya, resulting in over 150 terrorist operatives killed and eight tunnels destroyed.
Israel’s Internal Politics: Labor-Meretz Merger and Ben-Gvir’s Rise
The Labor Party conference approved a merger with Meretz, forming the Democrats party and strengthening Yair Golan’s leadership. Despite criticism from veteran members, the merger passed with one dissenting vote. Golan, elected Labor chairman in May, also abolished the secretary-general role and secured two top positions for Meretz in the next elections. He highlighted the merger’s historic significance and its potential to challenge Netanyahu’s government, aiming to unite liberal forces. A Maariv survey shows National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir as the top choice among coalition voters to lead the right-wing bloc post-Netanyahu, with 24% support. The poll by Dr. Menachem Lazar indicates minor seat changes, with the National Camp at 24 seats and Likud at 20. A unified right-wing party scenario suggests a coalition with 47 seats versus 63 for the opposition, with former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett favored to lead and Benny Gantz surpassing Netanyahu in prime minister suitability.
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★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH CRISIS
Israel Targets Deeper into Lebanon; Hezbollah Destroys Spy Equipment
On Friday, Israeli warplanes and drones targeted multiple locations in southern Lebanon, including Tair Harfa, Kafr Kila, and a motorcycle near Al-Mari-Rashaya Al-Fakhar. An Israeli machine gun attack hit a Lebanese army vehicle near Ghajar, though occupants survived. Hezbollah announced the death of Ali Nadala, injured in Taybeh, bringing their militant death toll to 368. Lebanese media reported another Hezbollah fighter injured in Almari by an Israeli drone. In response to Hezbollah’s increased use of drones and long-range missiles, Israel has shifted its military operations to target towns 7 to 10 kilometers inside Lebanon. An Israeli soldier was killed near the Lebanon border, reportedly by a drone strike. Hezbollah claimed the destruction of spy equipment in Metulla and targeted Israeli soldiers near Hanita. Israeli media reported anti-tank missiles hitting Metulla, causing power outages. Israel’s electricity company is preparing for potential large-scale power outages in the north, following heavy bombardments on Shaqra, Baraashit, and Tair Harfa.
Southern Lebanon Faces $1.7 Billion in Damages as Conflict Intensifies
The head of the Southern Council in Lebanon, Hashem Haider, announced that Israeli bombings have caused $1.7 billion in damages to southern Lebanese villages. The destruction includes 3,000 demolished housing units and significant agricultural losses, with 17 million square meters of farmland burned.
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★ SYRIA
Putin and Assad Play Venue Tug-of-War Over Talks
Russian President Vladimir Putin opposes Iraq hosting high-level meetings between Erdogan and Assad, preferring Turkiye as the venue with Russian mediation due to strategic and security concerns. Hosting talks in Turkiye allows Russia to exert greater influence and aligns with its regional interests, while Iraq’s volatile security situation poses risks. Assad, however, refuses to go to Turkiye. This led Erdogan to announce tasking his foreign minister, Hakan Fidan, with meeting Assad in Damascus to begin restoration talks.
Explosion Injures Russian Soldier, Civilians in Hasakah Security Square
An explosive device detonated in the security square of Hasakah, northeastern Syria, injuring a Russian soldier, a translator, a doctor, and several civilians. The explosion occurred near a Russian forces clinic in the Pearl Medical Complex. Following the incident, regime forces heightened security. Reports from local sources indicate that the device was locally manufactured, causing minor injuries and material damage. This follows a previous attack in May, where a Hezbollah leader was injured in Hasakah. The city’s security square hosts several militia headquarters, including those of Hezbollah and Iranian forces.
Russian Soldier Kidnapped by Two Syrians, Exposing Military Weakness
Following the Assad regime militia’s assassination of local leader Abdullah Ismail Karim Al-Halqi, severe clashes escalated in Daraa, southern Syria with Assad’s army. Mediation efforts failed, resulting in four deaths, including two civilians. This morning, unidentified gunmen set up a temporary checkpoint on the road to the town of Ghabaghb, reminiscent of the Free Syrian Army’s actions, and arrested a Russian military member, taking him to an undisclosed location. The Russians immediately sent mediators to the region’s notables, asking them to secure the soldier’s release, and the notables pledged to ensure his safety. A few hours later, under the pressure of the notables, the unidentified gunmen agreed to release the Russian soldier.
Local As-Suwayda Factions Detain Army Members, Demand Release of Detainees
Local factions in As-Suwayda, Syria, detained five army and security force members, including a captain, in response to the arrest of a young man from the region. They demand the release of three detainees in exchange for the captured officers. This incident underscores a recurring pattern where locals use such tactics to negotiate the release of arbitrarily arrested individuals. Concurrently, residents in Jaramana protested poor electricity and water services, revealing widespread dissatisfaction with basic living conditions, leading to heightened tensions and demands for improvements.
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★ IRAN
McGurk’s Secret Iran Talks Continue, Confirms Bagheri
Iran’s acting foreign minister Ali Bagheri Kani confirmed ongoing secret and indirect talks with the United States via Oman which was first reported in May of 2023, defying explicit Congressional prohibitions. This contradicts a May 2022 bipartisan Senate vote demanding any new nuclear agreement with Iran address its support for terrorism and maintain sanctions on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. A September 2023 Subcommittee hearing criticized the Biden administration for unauthorized, opaque negotiations with Iran, stressing these actions violate the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act, which mandates transparency and Congressional oversight. These secret diplomatic efforts, facilitated by Brett McGurk, suggest a breach of federal laws and undermine legislative authority.
Iran Demands US pay $6.8 bln for Sanctions that Impacted Sick Patients
An Iranian court has ordered the United States to pay nearly $6.8 billion in damages for sanctions affecting patients with epidermolysis bullosa, a rare skin disease. The sanctions, reinstated by then-President Trump in 2018, deprived patients of essential medicines, leading to around 20 deaths. The trial began in November 2021 with 295 complainants suing 30 American officials. Despite humanitarian exemptions, international banks’ reluctance to deal with Iran obstructed medical supplies. This follows a March report where Iran’s judiciary ordered the seizure of American oil in retaliation for the sanctions.
Iran Smuggles Two Aircraft from Europe, Evading Sanctions
Iran has covertly acquired two Airbus A340 aircraft from Lithuania, bypassing stringent Western sanctions. These planes, originally scheduled for South Asia, were diverted mid-flight, switched off their transponders, and landed in Iran. Owned by Gambian leasing company Macka Invest, the aircraft now belong to Iran’s Mahan Air. This incident underscores Iran’s adeptness at circumventing sanctions to sustain its aging aviation fleet, which suffers from severe restrictions on purchasing new planes due to US sanctions. The operation has raised significant concerns among Lithuanian authorities and highlights the ongoing challenge of enforcing international sanctions against Iran.
Qaani Claims Visit to Resistance Fronts to Pledge More Support
Following the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, Iranian media reported Brigadier General Esmail Qaani’s visit to an unspecified resistance front, where he met senior leaders and reaffirmed Iran’s support for the Palestinian resistance. Qaani’s statements highlight Iran’s strategy of backing proxy groups to counter Israel’s military. Emphasizing support for Gaza, Qaani signals Iran’s commitment to asymmetric warfare. His visit underscores unified state support, ensuring sustained aid to these groups. As tensions rise with Hezbollah, Qaani’s remarks indicate Iran’s intent to pressure Israel through its network of militant allies.
Iran’s Reformist President Pezeshkian Joins Muharram Mourning Ceremony with Regime Loyalists
Iran’s newly elected President Massoud Pezeshkian, known as a reformer, made a dramatic appearance on Thursday at a traditional Muharram ceremony in Tehran – the “latmiya,” marked by rhythmic lamentations for Husayn ibn Ali, the Prophet Muhammad’s grandson. Pezeshkian, dressed in black and accompanied by loyalists, fully immersed himself in the religious exercise, showcasing his deep cultural ties and connection to traditional practices despite his reformist stance.
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★ YEMEN
Merchant Ship Reports Explosions Near Mocha, Yemen
British maritime security company Ambrey reported that a commercial ship experienced two explosions about 21 nautical miles west of Mocha, Yemen. One missile fell into the water while another exploded mid-air, both within half a nautical mile of the ship, which had its automated identification system off at the time. Ambrey is investigating potential links between the ship and targets claimed by the Houthis.
US Army Destroys Houthi Drones and Boats in Red Sea
CENTCOM announced the destruction of five boats and three drones belonging to the Houthi group in Yemen, with two drones destroyed in the Red Sea and one in a Houthi-controlled area in Yemen. Centcom cited these assets as imminent threats to the US, coalition forces, and commercial ships. Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi admitted that 57 members were killed and 87 wounded due to American-British raids. In his weekly televised address, al-Houthi mentioned that the coalition conducted eight raids in Hodeidah and Hajjah this week, totaling 570 attacks since February. He also stated that Houthi forces launched operations using 10 winged and unmanned ballistic missiles this week.
Taiz Airport Reopens Under Houthi Control
After keeping the airport closed for nine years, the Houthi militia’s announcement to reopen Taiz Airport while maintaining restricted operations at Sanaa Airport indicates a new approach. This move aims to diversify their logistical assets, reducing dependency on Sanaa Airport, which has faced coalition airstrikes and blockades. By adding a second operational airport, the Houthis enhance their economic leverage, presenting themselves as capable of managing critical infrastructure and facilitating humanitarian aid. Militarily, this provides greater flexibility for the movement of forces and supplies, ensuring operational continuity even if Sanaa becomes non-operational. Politically, it sends a message of governance and resilience, potentially garnering local and international support. The dual operational strategy also creates redundancy, crucial in maintaining aerial logistics in the ongoing conflict, underscoring the Houthis’ tactical acumen in a protracted war scenario.
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★ TURKIYE
Erdogan Vows to Veto NATO-Israel Cooperation
At NATO’s 75th anniversary summit in Washington, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan warned that Turkey would veto any attempts by NATO to cooperate with Israel until comprehensive peace is achieved in Palestine. He emphasized, “Until comprehensive, sustainable peace is established in Palestine, attempts at cooperation with Israel within NATO will not be approved by Turkey.” Despite Turkey’s ability to hinder NATO-Israel initiatives, Erdogan cannot unilaterally end their collaboration, which includes counter-terrorism and cyber defense. NATO’s consensus-based decision-making ensures that a single member cannot dismantle the longstanding partnership without broader support from other members.
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★ IRAQ
Turkiye’s Military Ambitions in Iraq Raise Tensions with Baghdad
Turkiye claimed today through its Defense Minister Yasar Guler it would conclude its Claw-Lock operations against PKK militants in northern Iraq by November. Despite Turkiye’s assertion of targeting militants while respecting Iraq’s territorial integrity, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein denies any agreement on these actions and stresses the need for a political solution. Baghdad continues to call for dialogue, demonstrating its inability to control the increasing incursions by Turkiye or the PKK presence in Iraq.
Iraqi Foreign Minister Urges Resolution for Frozen Iranian Funds
Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein emphasized the need for a swift and fair resolution to the issue of Iranian funds frozen in Iraq during a meeting with US Under Secretary of State John Bass. The discussion covered various bilateral and regional issues, including the enhancement of US-Iraqi relations and economic cooperation. Hussein highlighted the importance of addressing the frozen funds to promote financial stability in the region. He also expressed concerns over the situation in Gaza and potential conflict spread to southern Lebanon, advocating for international efforts to de-escalate tensions and achieve peace.
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★ EGYPT & NORTH AFRICA
Netanyahu Denies Discussing Border Monitoring System with Egypt
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office refuted a Reuters report claiming Israel discussed withdrawing from the Philadelphia axis and installing a border monitoring system with Egypt. The statement emphasized that Netanyahu insists on maintaining Israel’s presence in the Philadelphia axis, a stance communicated to US representatives and the Council of Ministers. Reuters had reported talks between Israel and Egypt on preventing smuggling on the Gaza-Egypt border as part of a ceasefire agreement, driven by Israeli concerns over Hamas smuggling activities and other threats.
Egypt Secures €397 Million Green Ammonia Supply Contract with Europe
The Suez Canal Economic Zone announced that the “Egypt Green Hydrogen” project has secured a €397 million contract to supply renewable ammonia to the EU until 2033. This initiative aligns with Egypt’s strategy to localize green fuel production and diversify energy sources. The project, involving companies like Fertiglobe, Scatec ASA, Orascom Construction, and the Sovereign Fund of Egypt, will start with 19,500 tons in 2027, potentially reaching 397,000 tons by 2033. The success reflects Egypt’s competitive advantage in green hydrogen production and its commitment to clean energy.
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★ THE GULF
Saudi Envoy Highlights International Cooperation at OPCW Meeting
The 106th session of the OPCW’s executive council has begun in The Hague, with Saudi Ambassador Ziyad bin Maashi Al-Attiyah leading the Saudi delegation. Al-Attiyah reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the prohibition of chemical weapons, condemning their use and supporting Palestine’s request for close monitoring in occupied territories. He welcomed recent recognitions of Palestine by several countries and urged the international community to follow suit. Al-Attiyah emphasized cooperation on Syria’s chemical weapons program and highlighted the importance of addressing AI threats in chemical warfare. The session acknowledged Algeria’s new OPCW laboratory.
Qatar Sees Significant Growth in Air Cargo and Aircraft Movement in June 2024
Qatar’s aviation sector experienced robust growth in June 2024, with a 10.1% rise in air cargo, reaching 214,823 tons, and an 11.3% increase in aircraft movements, totaling 23,257. Passenger numbers soared by 16.4%, with over 4.34 million travelers passing through Hamad International Airport. The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) highlighted these developments on social media. According to IATA, global air cargo demand grew by 14.7% annually in May, with the Middle East seeing a 15.3% increase. Global cargo capacity also rose by 6.7% year-on-year.
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📌 In case you missed it,
📰 THE EARLY PHOENIX July 11, 2024
📰 THE EARLY PHOENIX July 10, 2024
📰 THE EARLY PHOENIX July 9, 2024
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