Top Headlines:
Houthis Attack Tankers Causing Oil Spill, Major Loss for Putin
Israeli Delegation in Egypt for Philadelphi Route Withdrawal Despite Expert Warning
Nasrallah Threatens Israel’s Tanks with Shahed-101 Drones
Iranian-Backed Militias Resume Attacks on U.S. Forces in Iraq
ISIS Claims 153 Attacks; Kurilla’s Visit Highlights U.S. Concerns
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★ ISRAEL & PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES
Israeli Delegation in Egypt for Philadelphi Route Withdrawal Despite Expert Warning
An Israeli delegation is in Egypt for ceasefire and prisoner exchange negotiations with Hamas. Ongoing talks involve daily communications with Qatari and American officials. A key issue is the potential Israeli troop withdrawal from the Philadelphi Route, with Prime Minister Netanyahu’s decision crucial for progress. Hudson Institute Senior Fellow, Mike Doran and board member of ACLS, explained that Israel would be at great risk if it leaves the Philadelphi Route, citing it as a critical weapons and materials smuggling route into Gaza. Abandoning it would allow Hamas to strengthen its arsenal and capabilities, posing a significant threat to Israeli security. The last thing Israel should want to see is an internationalized Gaza Strip that is going to have deep Iranian influence.” Later in the evening time in Israel, Access to Eilat was temporarily blocked on Tuesday due to a suspected infiltration from Egypt. Authorities deployed significant security forces, including helicopters, and set up roadblocks on Routes 12, 90, and 40 to inspect vehicles. The investigation focused on the possibility of undocumented workers or terrorist operatives entering the city. After several hours, the suspicion was dismissed, and normal traffic resumed. Security officials continue to monitor the area to ensure safety.
US and UK Increase Pressure on Israel Over Settlement and Aid Policies
The Biden administration and the UK’s new Labour government are intensifying pressure on Israel regarding its settlement and aid policies. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, from the newly elected progressive Labour Party, warned Israeli officials of potential sanctions and boycotts if Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich continues to legitimize illegal West Bank settlements. Lammy’s visit highlighted growing international discontent, with the EU recently sanctioning figures close to National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. Concurrently, the White House imposed sanctions on Shlomo Yehezkel Hai Sarid, the founder of the Order 9 movement, for blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza. In an embarrassing misstep, the US State Department had initially sanctioned the wrong person, Aviad Shlomo Sarid, before correcting the error.
CENTCOM Ends Gaza Dock Mission, Israel Resumes Aid via Ashdod
The US Central Command concluded its $230 million floating dock mission off Gaza, aimed at delivering humanitarian aid despite severe air and security challenges. Admiral Brad Cooper announced the dock’s dismantling and return to the US. The project, which facilitated nearly 9 million kilograms of supplies, faced criticism for its limited effectiveness. President Biden expressed disappointment in the mission’s outcomes. Israel will replace the US offshore pier for delivering aid to Gaza with a new facility at Ashdod port, announced Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The new “Pier 28” will facilitate humanitarian aid through Israeli land crossings. Despite concerns about land crossings and military operations, this move aims to provide a more sustainable aid solution. Additionally, a planned field hospital in Israel will treat Palestinian children, addressing immediate humanitarian needs as Gaza’s Rafah crossing into Egypt remains closed.
IDF strikes Gaza, destroys tunnel, prepares homes for demolition
The IDF conducted several operations in Gaza today. Israeli Air Force jets targeted areas in northern Gaza from which rockets were launched at Sderot, causing no injuries. Concurrently, the IDF’s engineering and special units destroyed a tunnel in Rafah that Hamas militants attempted to use for infiltration in June. Additionally, IDF and Shin Bet forces raided the homes of attackers responsible for the killing of Amnon Mokhtar in Qalqilya, preparing them for demolition. The raid resulted in nine arrests and the seizure of weapons across the West Bank.
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★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH CRISIS
Hezbollah Deploys Shahed-101 Drones, Nasrallah Threatens Israel’s Tanks
Overnight, Israel’s aerial defense systems intercepted rockets as 15 projectiles targeted the northern city of Nahariya. Hezbollah’s use of Iranian-made Shahed-101 suicide drones marks a notable escalation in their tactical capabilities. These drones, which travel up to 560 miles with heavy ammunition, are nearly undetectable due to their electric engines and low noise. The Shahed-101’s stealthy design complicates detection and interception efforts, particularly in northern Israel’s mountainous terrains. Today, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah showcased these new tactics, issuing a stern warning that if Israel sends tanks into southern Lebanon, Hezbollah would ensure their complete destruction. Nasrallah also vowed to continue fighting until the conflict in Gaza ends, signaling an unwavering stance against Israel.
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★ IRAN
Iran Denies Explosion Claims; U.S. Secretly Warned Iran
Washington issued a secret warning to Iran last month regarding suspicious research and development activities potentially linked to nuclear weapon production, as detected by U.S. and Israeli intelligence. Despite Iran’s denial of pursuing nuclear weapons, the activities remain closely monitored. In a related development today, Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, dismissed claims connecting nuclear sites to recent explosion images near Kashan, clarifying they were unrelated to the nuclear industry.
Tehran Praises Russia’s UNSC Presidency Efforts on Palestinian Issue
Iran’s acting Foreign Minister Ali Baqeri Kani praised Russia’s efforts on the Palestinian issue during its presidency of the UN Security Council. In a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Kani emphasized the need to halt Israeli aggression in Gaza. The discussion also covered bilateral relations and international developments, with both ministers noting progress in Iran-Russia cooperation and expressing optimism about finalizing a comprehensive strategic partnership. Lavrov expressed concern about the Gaza conflict potentially expanding and affirmed Russia’s commitment to preventing it.
Iranian Hacking Group Expands Global Cyber Operations
Iranian hackers, known as MuddyWater, have expanded their cyber activities to countries including Azerbaijan, Portugal, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and India, using new malware called BugSleep. This malware enables remote command execution and file transfers between infected systems and servers, targeting government organizations, media outlets, and travel agencies. Attributed to Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence, MuddyWater’s tactics now involve embedding malicious links in PDF attachments to evade email security filters. Their cyber-espionage efforts align with Iran’s geopolitical interests, particularly since the Gaza war outbreak.
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★ YEMEN
Houthis Attack Tankers Causing Oil Spill, Major Loss for Putin
Houthi rebels in Yemen have launched coordinated attacks on multiple tankers carrying Russian oil, dealing a significant blow to the Kremlin. The Panama-flagged, Israeli-owned MT Bently I, the Liberian-flagged Chios Lion, and the Olvia were targeted by drones and small boats approximately 100 nautical miles northwest of Hodeidah. The Chios Lion was specifically targeted by an uncrewed surface vessel 97 nautical miles northwest of Hodeidah, causing significant damage and resulting in an oil slick stretching nearly the length of Yemen’s Red Sea coast, as reported by the Conflict and Environment Observatory. Satellite imagery from the European Space Agency revealed the slick, measuring 220 kilometers (135 miles) long, indicating a substantial oil release from the damaged tanker. The MT Bently I, en route to Shanghai, and the Chios Lion, carrying 100,000 tonnes of Russian oil, were part of these attacks, with both vessels reporting no casualties. This incident is devastating for Putin as it directly impacts Russia’s crucial oil revenue, a major source of funding for the war in Ukraine. The disruption of oil exports undermines Russia’s financial stability and weakens its economic position. Additionally, the attacks expose vulnerabilities in Russia’s supply chains, further straining the Kremlin’s resources and strategic planning.
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★ IRAQ
Iranian-Backed Militias Resume Attacks on U.S. Forces in Iraq
Iraq’s Ain al-Asad Airbase, which hosts U.S. and international forces, was targeted by two armed drones. One drone was intercepted near the base perimeter, and no casualties were reported. Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq, led by Qais Khazali, claimed responsibility for the drone attack. Militia leader Ali Al-Fatlawi warned that any U.S. retaliation would escalate operations against American interests in Iraq. This incident comes ahead of talks between a high-level Iraqi military delegation and Washington on the U.S.-led coalition’s presence in Iraq, formed to combat Islamic State since 2014.
China Expands Stronghold in Iraq Through Major Oil Investments
A British report by “Oil Price” highlights China’s growing influence in Iraq’s oil and gas sector. China has secured nine oil and gas fields in recent auctions and formed a consortium with Iraqi state companies to develop the Mansuriya gas field, expected to produce 100 million cubic feet of gas in 18 months and 300 million cubic feet within five years. This move aims to reduce Iraq’s reliance on Iran for gas. Chinese companies also won bids to explore and develop several other fields, including a 300,000-barrel-per-day refinery in the key port of Faw. This investment surge follows a 2019 “oil-for-reconstruction” agreement between Baghdad and Beijing, paving the way for extensive Chinese involvement in Iraq’s infrastructure in exchange for oil. China’s strategic investments are part of Iraq’s broader efforts to enhance its energy industry and achieve self-sufficiency in gas production.
Iraq Modernizes Ports to Boost Influence, Reduce Reliance, Draws U.S. Interest
Iraq is advancing its marine industry modernization through the implementation of a Maritime Single Window (MSW) system at Umm Qasr South Port and Umm Qasr North Port in Basra, following the January 1, 2024, IMO mandate for digital information exchange. By modernizing its ports, Iraq not only strengthens its infrastructure but also reduces its reliance on neighboring countries, a move that positively impacts global oil markets. The MSW system is crucial as over 80 percent of Iraq’s imports flow through these ports, and it will extend to the Al-Faw Grand Port, expected to open in December 2024, and other Iraqi ports.
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★ SYRIA
ISIS Claims 153 Attacks; Kurilla’s Visit Highlights U.S. Concerns
From January to June 2024, ISIS claimed 153 attacks in Iraq and Syria, indicating a significant rise as they attempt to regain strength. General Michael Kurilla’s visit to Syria’s northeast reaffirmed continued operations against ISIS with the SDF. He met US commanders to evaluate protection measures, heightening SDF fears about Turkiye’s normalization process with Assad, which could lead to military operations against them. Today, the SDF, supported by the international coalition, dismantled an ISIS cell in eastern Deir Ezzor, targeting three members responsible for attacks on military and civilian institutions.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), in collaboration with Iraqi Security Forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces, executed 196 missions to combat ISIS, resulting in 44 ISIS operatives killed and 166 detained, with 137 operations in Iraq and 59 in Syria. These missions also eliminated or captured eight senior ISIS leaders involved in planning, recruiting, and smuggling weapons. Additionally, within a specific period between March and April, CENTCOM conducted 94 missions, resulting in 18 deaths and 63 arrests. In Syria, 28 operations led to seven deaths and 27 arrests, while in Iraq, 66 operations resulted in 11 deaths and 36 arrests. CENTCOM emphasized the importance of continuing to target ISIS’s 2,500 fighters and managing over 9,000 detainees, alongside rehabilitating 45,000 individuals from camps to prevent ISIS from regrouping. General Kurilla highlighted the necessity of maintaining pressure on ISIS to ensure their capabilities remain degraded. The U.S. State Department announced its opposition to any normalization between Turkiye and Syria without substantial political progress, stressing the importance of UNSCR 2254 for humanitarian and security improvements. Despite Arab nations re-establishing ties with Damascus, the U.S. remains firm against normalizing relations with the Assad regime.
Uncovering the Mass Graves in Syria’s Natural Pits
In Syria, ISIS used natural pits as mass graves during its control from 2014 to 2019. Notable sites include the “Al-Hota ” gorge in Raqqa, once a family outing spot, now a grave for many victims. Human Rights Watch reported that bodies were thrown into this 50-meter-deep pit. Despite ISIS’s departure, bodies continue to be found, suggesting ongoing use of the pit by other groups. Investigations reveal that victims were often thrown in alive, their identities largely unknown, underscoring the brutality of ISIS’s reign in Syria.
SDF Announces Amnesty While Battling Counterfeit Currency Crisis
The “Autonomous Administration” in northeastern Syria issued a general amnesty for crimes under the Anti-Terrorism Law, excluding major offenses like acts against the SDF. This move aims to reintegrate individuals into society. Simultaneously, Deir ez-Zor is grappling with a surge in counterfeit currency, reportedly originating from Assad-controlled areas, impacting traders and residents. These challenges highlight the region’s complex security and economic landscape, with ongoing efforts to address both legal and economic stability.
Sweida’s Crisis: Assassination of Opposition Leader Marhej Al-Jarmani
In the city of Sweida, unknown gunmen assassinated Marhej Al-Jarmani, commander of the Mountain Brigade, at his home early Wednesday. Known for his strong opposition to the Assad regime, Al-Jarmani was a prominent figure in the Sweida protests, advocating for the implementation of UN Resolution 2254. His assassination, believed to be by trained operatives, has stirred significant unrest. The “Huwaat al-Karama” movement condemned the killing, warning it could lead to further violence. Al-Jarmani’s efforts included investigating defamation cases and challenging security authority abuses, marking his role as both a peace advocate and a protest leader.
Dual Struggle: Syrians Oppose Assad and Former Al-Qaeda HTS’s Thug Brutality
In Idlib, northwest Syria, where over 5 million people are internally displaced and resolute in their opposition to Assad, civilians face the dual challenge imposed by Julani and his thugs. HTS manipulates events, arrests opposition figures, and stages incidents to justify crackdowns, much like the recent upheaval in Binnish. Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) announced an agreement with the movement in Binnish following mass demonstrations triggered by a security officer running over a girl. The agreement includes releasing detainees, withdrawing barriers and security forces, and halting demonstrations for three months. Despite these terms, the protests highlight the deep-seated contempt for HTS’s Al Qaeda thug Abu Muhammad al-Julani, reflecting the broader resistance among Syrians who continue to demand accountability and reject both Assad’s regime and HTS’s oppressive practices.
Syrian Refugees in Egypt and Turkiye Face Political and Administrative Hurdles
Syrian refugees in Egypt are under immense pressure due to expired deadlines for residency status adjustments, leading to long waits and bureaucratic challenges at the UNHCR. Many struggle to renew their residencies, fearing legal repercussions. In Turkiye, refugees are anxious about potential forced returns as Turkiye considers normalizing relations with the Assad regime. Despite reassurances from the Turkish government to the Syrian opposition, refugees remain skeptical. This highlights the ongoing plight of displaced Syrians facing political uncertainty and administrative obstacles in host countries.
Fake Democracy: Buying Votes in Assad’s Syria
In Assad-controlled Syria, harsh taxes and financial obligations burden merchants, leading to a mass exodus from the Damascus Chamber of Commerce. The regime’s arbitrary tax hikes and increased customs duties have resulted in rising food prices, further straining the local economy. Recently, the Assad regime conducted illegitimate parliamentary elections, which were widely boycotted. Reports indicated rampant vote-buying, with votes being sold for as little as 150,000 Syrian liras, approximately $10.20 at the current exchange rate of 14,700 liras per U.S. dollar. Allegedly, individuals such as a man known as Abu Amin would pay voters directly to cast their votes for certain candidates. Additionally, some candidates offered other incentives, like food and fuel, in exchange for votes, further undermining the election’s legitimacy.
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★ EGYPT & NORTH AFRICA
Surplus, Export Growth, Renewable Energy Investments Boost Egypt’s Economy
Egypt’s economic strengths include a record $18.14 billion surplus, export growth in key sectors, and substantial investments in renewable energy projects. Gold prices surged due to investor reactions to the U.S. Federal Reserve signals, yet local market liquidity remains weak. The budget deficit decreased to 505 billion pounds, and a record primary surplus of $18.14 billion was achieved despite inflation and geopolitical disruptions. Export growth, particularly in petroleum and pharmaceuticals, narrowed the trade deficit to $2.7 billion in April, although the overall current account deficit widened to $17.1 billion. A record wheat purchase from Russia reflects strategic responses to falling global grain prices. Furthermore, the country’s renewable energy ambitions are underscored by a major green hydrogen project led by BP and Masdar. Collectively, these factors demonstrate Egypt’s resilience and strategic efforts to bolster its economic stability due to external pressures.
Six Detainees Die in Overcrowded Egyptian Detention Center
Six detainees died within a week at the Zagazig detention facility in Egypt’s al-Sharqia governorate, attributed to overcrowding, poor ventilation, and high temperatures. Mohamed Farouk Hussein, the latest victim, had requested medical assistance for weeks. The Egyptian Network for Human Rights (ENHR) highlighted severe violations, including limited water supply and deteriorating hygiene, contributing to these deaths. ENHR calls for immediate reforms and accountability.
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★ THE GULF
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Steps Down, Appoints Son as Defense Minister
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who has led the UAE Ministry of Defense since its inception in 1971, has stepped down, passing the role to his son, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This change marks a significant transition after five decades of leadership. The new appointments, part of a broader cabinet reshuffle, include Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Deputy Prime Minister while retaining his position as Foreign Minister. These moves reflect ongoing efforts to develop and modernize the UAE government under the guidance of President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed.
Gulf Leaders Extend Congratulations to Iran’s New President
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani have congratulated Iran’s newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian, emphasizing the development of bilateral relations. This comes after restored diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran in March 2023 and Qatar’s consistent engagement with Tehran. Both leaders highlighted the importance of continued cooperation, marking a significant step in Gulf nations’ diplomatic efforts to maintain and enhance relations with Iran.
60 Million Tourists Visit Saudi Arabia in First Half of 2024
Saudi Arabia saw a record 60 million tourists in the first half of 2024, contributing about $40 billion to the economy. Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb highlighted that tourism now accounts for 5% of the local economy and aims to reach 10% of GDP. The Kingdom ranked 11th globally in tourism, with 27 million international visitors. These figures underscore the success of Saudi Vision 2030, positioning the Kingdom as a premier global tourist destination.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkish Delegation Visits Niger to Strengthen Strategic Ties
Türkiye’s foreign, defense, and energy ministers met with Niger’s prime minister and other top officials in Niamey, signifying a deepening relationship between the two countries. The Turkish delegation, including Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, National Defense Minister Yaşar Güler, and Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar, discussed political and economic relations, regional developments, and defense cooperation. This visit follows Niger’s shift away from Western alliances, particularly France, and its efforts to establish new partnerships. Türkiye’s presence in Africa, emphasized by President Erdoğan’s “win-win approach,” contrasts with the colonial history of other foreign powers. With Niger severing ties with France and facing sanctions from ECOWAS, the country is seeking new alliances, making Türkiye’s visit a strategic move for both nations.
Renewed Tensions Emerge Between Türkiye and Greece Over Cyprus
Türkiye called on Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias to stop undermining efforts to advance Türkiye-Greece relations after Dendias’ comments targeting Turkish Cypriots and the Turkish army. Türkiye’s National Defense Ministry condemned Dendias’ remarks as false and slanderous, highlighting the Turkish military’s role in protecting Turkish Cypriots from persecution by Greek Cypriots from 1963-1974.
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📌 In case you missed it,
📰 THE EARLY PHOENIX July 16, 2024
📰 THE EARLY PHOENIX July 15, 2024
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