THE EARLY PHOENIX – Oct 24-2023

Top 5 Headlines: 

• North Korea Accuses Washington of Fueling Israel-Hamas Conflict. 
• U.S. Jews, Muslims Seek Unity During Israel-Hamas Crisis.
• China Excludes Iran from the Belt Road Initiative.
• Internationally Banned Missiles Strike Civilians near Aleppo.
• Egypt Proposes Palestinian Camps near Rafah to Address Gaza Crisis

Currencies:

THE EARLY PHOENIX – Oct 24-2023

USA 

1. Biden Sets Hostage Release as Precondition for Israel-Hamas Ceasefire. President Joe Biden stated he won’t support a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict until all hostages are released. The statement comes as some Democrats urge for a ceasefire due to rising casualties in Gaza. The Pentagon is also increasing troop presence in the Middle East to deter Iran and Hezbollah from escalating the conflict (USA Today).
2. U.S. Jews, Muslims Seek Unity During Israel-Hamas Crisis.The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, based in Pennsylvania, is facilitating conversations between Jewish and Muslim women in the U.S. as violence escalates in the Middle East. The group focuses on mutual understanding and peace, discussing faith, politics, and culture. In a time of global tension, these women continue to strengthen their friendships and discuss the conflict’s impact on their communities (USA Today).   
3. US Troops Return to Middle East 40 Years After Beirut Bombing.Forty years after the deadly Beirut barracks bombing, the U.S. is deploying troops in the Middle East during rising tensions between Israel and Hamas. The move is seen as a warning to Iran and Hezbollah, raising concerns about a potential new conflict involving the U.S. in the region. Various Iran-backed groups have issued threats against the U.S., and American bases in Iraq and Syria have been targeted. The situation remains volatile, with both U.S. and Iranian officials signaling readiness for escalation (AP).
4. U.S. Shuts Down Embassy in Iraq Following Surge in Base Attacks. The U.S. State Department is closing its embassy in Iraq, the fourth such action in an Arab country. This decision comes as attacks on U.S. bases escalate, signaling a shift in American influence in the region and raising questions about the U.S.’s future role (Motabaat).

================================

THE EARLY PHOENIX – Oct 24-2023

IRAN

5. Iran Leads Talks on South Caucasus, Gaza; Criticizes U.S., EU. Iran engaged in a series of diplomatic meetings, hosting leaders from Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey. The discussions aimed to resolve the South Caucasus conflict, enhance bilateral relations, and address the Gaza situation. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to discuss Gaza and regional stability, while also prioritizing closer ties with Azerbaijan. Concurrently, Iran and Armenia committed to boosting bilateral trade to $3 billion. The meetings criticized external involvement from the U.S. and EU, emphasizing Iran’s role in regional diplomacy (Iran International).
6. Russia and Iran Strengthen Relations. Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in Tehran, discussing various aspects of their bilateral agenda and emphasizing the growth of their partnership. The talks also covered energy and logistics projects, but few details were disclosed. This meeting occurred during rising Middle East tensions. Lavrov also participated in regional talks hosted by Iran to promote peace in the South Caucasus, following recent developments in Nagorno-Karabakh.The U.S. has expressed concerns about the defense partnership between Iran and Russia (Iran International). 
7. China Excludes Iran from the Belt Road Initiative. Despite China’s substantial investments in its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Iran’s participation has been constrained by US sanctions. China has directed significant BRI investments globally, but Iran has received only two investment agreements, one of which was canceled in 2018. This raises doubts about the implementation of the China-Iran 25-year strategic partnership agreement and its impact on crucial sectors like infrastructure and energy. Additionally, Iran has been excluded from major regional transport projects, disadvantageous compared to its neighbors (Iran International). 
8. Iran Thwarts 10 Major Cyber Attacks in Past Year: Civil Defense Chief. Iran’s Civil Defense Organization, in collaboration with the Intelligence Ministry and the Intelligence Department of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), has successfully thwarted ten significant cyberattacks over the past year. These efforts included taking 16 operational measures to prevent a cyberattack on the country’s electricity dispatch center, setting a pattern for detecting and repelling subsequent attacks. Iran has also prevented cyberattacks in the wake of the Al-Aqsa Storm operation against the Zionist regime, with 80% of these thwarted using domestic equipment. Over 300 domestically-developed products have been created through cooperation with the Defense Ministry and local knowledge-based companies (Tasnim Agency).
9. Iranian Expert: Tehran Regime “Digs Its Own Grave” in Israel-Hamas Conflict.  Benny Sabati, an Iranian researcher and Persian government spokesman, discussed the Iranian public’s sentiment towards the Israel-Hamas conflict. He emphasized that the Iranian regime is responsible for the regional unrest and that its actions have led to internal dissent. Sabati also noted instances where the Iranian public showed disapproval of their government’s stance, including during soccer games where boos were heard during a minute’s silence for Palestinians. He argues that it’s crucial to show Iranians the “true picture” of the conflict (Maariv Online).

===================================

THE EARLY PHOENIX – Oct 24-2023

ISRAEL & PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES

10. Hamas Highlights New Strategic Balance in Region After Al-Aqsa Storm Operation. Following the Al-Aqsa Storm operation outside Gaza, Hamas’ Political Bureau Head Ismail Haniyeh spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, emphasizing the establishment of a new strategic balance in the region. Haniyeh praised Iran’s support for Palestine and criticized the U.S.’ unwavering support for Israel. The article also highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza due to Israeli strikes (Tasnim Agency). 
11. Day 18 of Israel-Hamas Conflict: Key Developments and Diplomatic Efforts. As the Israel-Hamas conflict enters its 18th day, the death toll in Gaza surpasses 5,000. Two elderly Israeli captives were released by Hamas, while Israeli air raids have resulted in significant casualties. Diplomatic efforts are underway, with French President Emmanuel Macron visiting Tel Aviv and the UN General Assembly set to discuss the situation. Meanwhile, tensions are also rising in the West Bank and along the Lebanon-Israel border (Al Jazeera). 
12. EU Foreign Policy Chief Calls for Additional Gaza Aid and Humanitarian Ceasefire. EU’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, calls for increased aid to Gaza and suggests a humanitarian ceasefire during intense Israeli bombardment. Gaza receives only 4% of daily imports due to depleted supplies. EU employees criticize Ursula von der Leyen’s stance, condemning both Hamas’ attack on Israel and the disproportionate Israeli response (Sharq Awsat).
13. Hamas Resumes Rocket Fires on Southern Israel. Hamas resumed rocket fire from the Gaza Strip on Monday morning, launching a barrage of rockets at southern Israel some 14 hours after sirens were last heard across Israel. Residents of the southern port city of Ashkelon, as well as those who remained in Gaza border towns such as Yad Mordechai, Erez, Karmia, and Nativ Ha’Asara were all told to seek shelter (Jerusalem Post).
14. Israel Delays Ground Operation in Gaza for U.S. Reinforcements. The Israeli army postponed the anticipated ground operation in Gaza in response to Hamas’ recent actions. Israel’s move is dependent on the arrival of U.S. reinforcements in the region, with the U.S. preparing for possible Iranian attacks. While the delay is also attributed to operational readiness and resolving the issue of Palestinian prisoners, increased U.S. military presence aims to support Israel during the ongoing conflict (Haberler, Israeli Army Radio).
15. North Korea Accuses Washington of Fueling Israel-Hamas Conflict. North Korea blames Washington for escalating the Israel-Hamas conflict, accusing the U.S. of driving the situation in the Middle East. This comes after the U.S. vetoed a UN resolution for humanitarian aid to Gaza, citing concerns about Israel’s self-defense rights. North Korea criticizes both the U.S. and the EU for their stances, while expressing concern about deteriorating Middle East conditions (Sharq Awsat).
16. Germany Urges Fuel Delivery to Gaza, Warns of Cholera Outbreak. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called for the delivery of fuel to the besieged Gaza Strip, which has been targeted by Israeli airstrikes for 17 days. Baerbock emphasized the urgent need for fuel, especially for hospitals and essential services like water desalination and drinking water pumps. She warned of the potential spread of cholera due to the dire situation. Fuel shortages have already had a severe impact on Gaza’s hospitals and daily life, prompting concerns about potential health crises (:24).
17. Two Israeli Hostages Released by Hamas after 17 Days in Captivity. Hamas has released two elderly Israeli hostages, Nurit Cooper and Yocheved Lifshitz, who were taken captive from their homes in Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7. The release comes after reports suggesting that up to 50 hostages with foreign citizenships could be freed. However, it is believed that at least 220 others, including the husbands of both women, are still held hostage by Hamas (Times of Israel).
18. Herzog and Macron Discuss Israel’s Response to Hostage Situation. During a meeting in Jerusalem, Israeli President Isaac Herzog and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the ongoing conflict with Hamas, emphasizing the demand for the immediate release of Israeli citizens held hostage. Herzog warned of potential consequences for Lebanon if Hezbollah were to initiate hostilities. Macron called for targeted operations against terrorist organizations but cautioned against widening the conflict (Timesofisrael).
19. Israel Protests Russian Stance on Gaza War, Calls for ‘More Balance. Israel has expressed dissatisfaction with Russia over its statements against Israel during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Israeli Foreign Ministry voiced its displeasure to a Russian official, urging Moscow to adopt more balanced positions. The Russian stance included submitting a UN Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire that did not mention Hamas, as well as criticizing Israel’s methods in its campaign against the terror group. Israel argued that Russia’s remarks don’t align with the severity of the situation Israel is facing. Russia has sought to maintain relations with both parties but has faced criticism for comparing Israel’s Gaza blockade to the Nazi siege of Leningrad (Timesofisrael).

===================================

THE EARLY PHOENIX – Oct 24-2023

LEBANON

20. Israeli Airstrikes Hit Hezbollah Cells in Southern Lebanon. Israeli forces targeted two Hezbollah cells in southern Lebanon, preventing an attack on Israel. Hezbollah confirmed one fighter’s death, while the Israeli military reported striking the cells near Aitaroun and in the Shebaa Farms area. Later, Israel conducted additional strikes against Hezbollah targets. No injuries or damage have been reported (New Arab).
21. Lebanese Socialist Party Prepares Emergency Plan for Possible Conflict. The Lebanese Socialist Party, led by Timur Jumblatt, is among the first political parties in Lebanon to respond to the government’s emergency plan during escalating tensions in the region. They aim to maintain stability and are holding meetings to prepare preventive measures, especially if Israel attacks Lebanon. The party is also coordinating with other political groups and religious authorities. They emphasize the need to set aside political and sectarian disputes, prioritizing Lebanon’s safety, as uncertainty in the region grows. Meetings with the opposition are also anticipated as preparations for potential conflict expand beyond political parties to encompass various sectors in the country (lebanon24).
22. Lebanese Parties Prepare for Potential Conflict During Gaza Tensions. Lebanese political parties, led by the Progressive Socialist Party, are coordinating emergency plans in anticipation of potential conflict due to the ongoing events in Gaza. The parties are focusing on maintaining stability and preparing for any emergencies. While the exact nature of future developments is uncertain, the aim is to be prepared for any scenario, including the possibility of Israeli aggression against Lebanon (Lebanon 24).

===================================

THE EARLY PHOENIX – Oct 24-2023

SYRIA

23. US Forces Shoot Down Iranian Militia Drones Near Al-Tanf. American forces reportedly downed three Iranian militia drones near the Al-Tanf base, situated at the Syrian-Iraqi-Jordanian border. This attack is the second of its kind in five days, as the US maintains a heightened state of alert at the base to counter potential threats from Iranian-backed militias (Al-Nahar).
24. Attack Targets Iranian-Backed Faction HQ in Central Syria, Leaving Several Dead. In central Syria, an armed attack on an Iranian-backed faction’s headquarters near Homs resulted in three casualties, including a leader, and two others were wounded. This marks the third attack in the region within the current week, affecting both government entities and Iranian-affiliated groups (North Press).
25. Iranian Militias Launch 6 Attacks on US Bases in Syria in 5 Days as Revenge for Gaza. Iranian-affiliated militias have executed multiple attacks against the US-led coalition forces in Syria in a campaign titled “Revenge for Gaza.” The attacks, including rocket strikes and drone strikes, have targeted bases such as Al-Tanf, Al-Omar oil field, and the Koniko gas field, leading to casualties and material damage. These actions are in response to alleged Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, escalating tensions in the region (SyriaHR).
26. Internationally Banned Missiles Strike Civilians near Aleppo Camp. Civilians were injured when the Syrian regime and Russia targeted the outskirts of an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp in western Aleppo with internationally banned phosphorus missiles. Meanwhile, Turkish artillery hit military positions of the Syrian regime and Iranian militias in eastern Idlib and western Aleppo. Clashes and strikes persisted across northwestern Syria (Zaman Alwsl).

===================================

THE EARLY PHOENIX – Oct 24-2023

IRAQ

27. Iraqi PM Orders Crackdown on Attacks Against Coalition Bases. Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shiaa al-Sudani has directed security forces to identify and apprehend those responsible for attacks on military bases hosting international advisors. The move comes during a rise in drone attacks on these bases, launched in support of Palestinians. The government emphasized that the safety of these bases is non-negotiable, even as it condemned Israeli actions in Gaza. U.S. Central Command has denied reports of American casualties in recent attacks (Sharq Awsat).
28. Intensified Counterterrorism Efforts in Iraq Yield Positive Results. Iraq’s Counter-Terrorism Service has ramped up operations against ISIS, focusing on intelligence-driven, tactical missions. Their efforts have led to the elimination of 45 terrorists and the capture of 110, including key ISIS leaders. This coordinated approach aims to eradicate security threats, enhancing Iraq’s stability (Sky News Arabia).

===================================

THE EARLY PHOENIX – Oct 24-2023

THE GULF REGION & YEMEN

29. Emirati Aircraft Allegedly Join Israeli Strikes on Gaza. France 24 has reported that Emirati warplanes are participating alongside the Israeli Air Force in airstrikes on Gaza, causing casualties among Palestinians. Recent intelligence suggests that private Emirati planes have conducted repeated secret flights between Tel Aviv and Abu Dhabi, further implicating the UAE’s involvement in the ongoing Israeli war in Gaza. The UAE has openly supported Israel diplomatically and in the media, while also assisting in mobilizing Israeli reserve soldiers. This marks a significant departure from traditional Arab support for Palestine (26sep).
30. Yemeni President-In-Exile Attributes Attack on Israel to Houthi Militants. Yemen’s Houthi group has pushed the acting government’s president in Sanaa to claim responsibility for the attack that the U.S. defense had announced foiled off the Red Sea coast, suggesting it was possibly targeting Israel. The Houthi leadership didn’t officially claim the attack, raising questions about the event. Experts doubt Houthi capabilities to launch missiles on U.S. ships or Israel, considering it a political move to justify potential strikes on Gaza and disrupt Arab solidarity with Palestine (Mareb Press).

===================================

THE EARLY PHOENIX – Oct 24-2023

EGYPT & NORTH AFRICA

31. Egypt Proposes Palestinian Camps near Rafah to Address Gaza Crisis. Egypt is considering establishing camps near Rafah, just 3 kilometers inside Palestinian territory, as a way to manage the influx of displaced people from northern Gaza. This initiative would enable Egypt to provide humanitarian services and assess the medical needs of those affected. The proposal is connected to negotiations facilitated by Qatar for the release of civilian prisoners in Gaza, backed by U.S. pressure on Israel. Egypt aims to expand its role beyond providing humanitarian aid to a more comprehensive solution for Gaza (i24news).

===================================

THE EARLY PHOENIX – Oct 24-2023

TURKIYE

32. Istanbul Faces Alarming Drought: Lowest Dam Levels in a Decade. Istanbul’s reservoirs are sounding the alarm on drought. According to ISKI data, the current reservoir occupancy rate is measured at 20.36%. This marks the lowest value in the past decade, with 2014, a drought year, recording a 21.13% level. The occupancy rate has fallen below 10% in six of Istanbul’s dams, with the highest level at 43.55% in the Ömerli Dam, supplied with water from the Melen River (Hurriyet).
33. Date Announced! All Balances Will Be Overturned. A roadmap for establishing an international gas center in Turkey between Ankara and Moscow is expected to come to life before the end of 2023. Turkey’s Ministry of Energy and Gazprom have reached an agreement to prepare and sign a roadmap for the project’s implementation. Meetings between the two sides have been progressing positively since the discussions held in Moscow during Russia Energy Week in October (Aksam).
34. Germany Claims Turkey Could Have Brought Peace, but US Hindered It. Former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder alleges that Ukraine was prevented from signing a peace agreement during the 2022 talks in Istanbul due to U.S. intervention. Schröder stated that Ukraine was willing to make concessions, but the U.S. restricted the discussions, and he criticized the American strategy as potentially divisive (Yeniakit).

===================================

THE EARLY PHOENIX – Oct 24-2023