Top Headlines:
- Tracking Iran’s Weapons Route into the West Bank
- Ansar Allah Leader Threatens Saudi Infrastructure
- ISIS Ambush Highlights Regime’s Vulnerability in Syrian Desert
- Pezeshkian Wins Iran’s Presidential Election
- Turkish Parliament Speaker Kurtulmus Holds Strategic Meetings in DC
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★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH CRISIS
U.S. Contractor Injured in Hezbollah-Israel Weekend Escalation
Over the weekend, the IDF eliminated Maysam al-Attar, a key Hezbollah air defense member, in a Saturday drone strike near Shaat, northeastern Lebanon. In retaliation, Hezbollah launched its largest air operation on Sunday, deploying explosive drones against an Israeli military intelligence base on Mount Hermon in the Golan Heights. Israeli airstrikes targeted Maaroub and Aita al-Shaab in southern Lebanon, causing no casualties but producing large clouds of smoke. Hezbollah responded by bombarding the Meron base in Jabal al-Jarmaq with Katyusha rockets, wounding three Israeli soldiers. Rockets also hit Israeli settlements, injuring three, including a U.S. citizen soldier. An anti-tank missile in Zarit injured the same American drone company employee and an Israeli soldier. Israeli media reported the attack injured three Israelis in Moshav Zar’it, Upper Galilee, with the Galilee Medical Center treating the injured, including a U.S. citizen. Hezbollah launched a rare barrage of 20 rockets from Lebanon, striking northern Israel and injuring four people, including two seriously. An American drone company employee was seriously injured and placed in an artificial coma at Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya, prompting an investigation by the Israeli army into their presence in the area. Hezbollah reiterated its stance, linking the halt of aggression in Gaza to ceasing its support operations in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah parliamentary member Hassan Fadlallah emphasized Lebanon’s sovereignty in decision-making, criticizing Israeli military and political actions, amid recent cross-border clashes and bombings which injured four civilians.
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★ ISRAEL & PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES
Israeli Paratroopers in Close-Quarters Combat with Terrorists in Gaza
Footage from the IDF shows Israeli Paratroopers in close-quarters combat with Hamas fighters in Gaza’s Shujaiya neighborhood. The elite Paratroopers’ Reconnaissance Battalion, active in the area for a week, has seized weapons and destroyed booby-trapped buildings. They killed several terrorists in face-to-face encounters and eliminated others using drones and tank fire.
Druze Officer Killed as IDF Eliminates Over 30 Terrorists in Rafah
IDF Maj. Jalaa Ibrahem, a 25-year-old Druze officer, was killed by an anti-tank missile in Rafah. In the past 24 hours, the IDF killed over 30 terrorists in Rafah and targeted a rocket launcher. In Shejaiya, Israeli forces eliminated several terrorists and dismantled terror infrastructure.
Israeli Airstrike Kills Gaza Ministry Official
Hamas media reported that an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City killed Ihab Al-Ghussein, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labor in the Hamas-led government, along with three others. The strike was confirmed by the Civil Emergency Service. This incident adds to the ongoing conflict and highlights the continuing military actions in the region.
Rafah Reduced to Ghost Town as IDF Nears Hamas Defeat
Rafah, once a shelter for over 2 million Gazans, now stands deserted, its buildings bullet-ridden and shattered. Israeli forces claim to be close to dismantling Hamas in this last stronghold. Humanitarian efforts face severe challenges, with aid deliveries stalled and living conditions deteriorating for the remaining 50,000 civilians. As combat continues, the humanitarian crisis worsens, with fuel shortages threatening critical services in hospitals.
Hamas Drops Permanent Ceasefire Condition in Prisoner Exchange Talks
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that any Gaza ceasefire agreement must allow Israel to continue its military operations until its objectives are met. Meanwhile, Hamas has agreed to negotiate prisoner exchanges without requiring a permanent ceasefire. This shift follows mediation efforts by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar. Hamas leaders indicated negotiations could take two to three weeks if Israel cooperates. The talks aim to stop the nine-month conflict and secure the release of prisoners. CIA Director William Burns will join the negotiations in Doha, while Israel prepares to send envoys to continue discussions.
Abu Ubaida’s Statement on Al-Qassam’s Capabilities and Recruitment
Abu Ubaida, military spokesman for Hamas’ Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, declared their capabilities intact and confirmed the recruitment of thousands during the conflict in Gaza. He highlighted the group’s continued resistance without external support, criticized Israeli military tactics, and noted widespread Palestinian support for their actions. He also mentioned the ongoing battles in Rafah and Shuja’iya, the rehabilitation of capabilities, and retaliatory attacks. Additionally, Ubaida criticized Israeli PM Netanyahu, addressing Israeli public opinion on his handling of the conflict. He also acknowledged support from Hezbollah, other Palestinian factions, and regional allies.
Israeli Protests Surge and Government Internal Conflicts Escalate
Internal rage surged in Israel on Sunday as more than 200 thousands protested nationwide, marking nine months since the war on Gaza began. Demonstrators demanded a prisoner exchange deal with Hamas and the resignation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. Protests began at 06:29 AM, the same time Hamas launched its October 7 attack. Israeli police arrested several protesters and fined others for blocking major roads in cities like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, Herzliya, and Beersheba. Over 150 tech companies allowed employees to join the protests. The Israeli Broadcasting Authority reported demonstrations outside ministers’ homes, including those of Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. During a security briefing, Gallant faced criticism for his insistence on passing a haredi draft bill with broad agreement. He urged measures to extend IDF service and reserve duty, but his stance on the draft bill, requiring support from Benny Gantz’s National Unity party, drew opposition. Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi challenged Gallant’s consistency, while Prime Minister Netanyahu accused him of politicizing the issue. Settlement Minister Orit Strock expressed doubts about the government’s ability to complete its term, pointing to a contentious focus on West Bank settlement expansion.
Study: Winning the Thirty Years’ War with Iran
Brig. Gen. (res.) Eran Ortal suggests that to win the war with Iran’s proxies, Israel must take a strategic pause to rebuild its military strength and develop an effective offensive strategy. This includes quickly and effectively neutralizing threats in Gaza and Lebanon without prolonged attrition, renewing national unity and leadership, and leveraging regional coalitions and international support to counter Iran’s influence. Additionally, Israel should focus on strategic planning and professional military readiness, ensuring true learning at both political and military levels while avoiding the overlap of political discourse with strategic decisions. These steps will enable Israel to transition from containment and deterrence to decisive offensive actions, ultimately overwhelming Iran’s proxies and securing long-term stability.
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★ IRAN
Pezeshkian Wins Iran’s Presidential Election
Masoud Pezeshkian won Iran’s presidential runoff, defeating hardliner Saeed Jalili with 16.3 million votes to 13.5 million. Pezeshkian, a cardiac surgeon advocating for moderate policies and improved Western relations, secured victory amid higher voter turnout driven by fears of a hardline administration. His win marks a significant shift for Iran’s reformist camp, which has been sidelined in recent years. Pezeshkian promises economic reforms tied to foreign policy and opposes the mandatory hijab law, though he maintains Iran’s firm stance against Israel. Observers believe Khamenei may be allowing for “heroic flexibility” in foreign policy, similar to the strategy used in 2013, to address internal and external challenges.
Khamenei Awaits US Election Outcome to Decide Iran’s Nuclear Policy
Iran expert Raz Zimmt highlights that while Khamenei controls candidate selection, he doesn’t fully control election outcomes. Despite reformist candidate Pezeshkian’s stance, Khamenei’s ultimate control means significant shifts in nuclear policy are unlikely. Khamenei may consider a limited nuclear deal with the current US administration to alleviate economic pressures, but major concessions are improbable until after the US election. Experts suggest Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is waiting to see if Donald Trump wins the US election before making definitive decisions on Iran’s nuclear policy.
Tracking Iran’s Weapons Route into the West Bank
Iran is actively working to flood the West Bank with weaponry, aiming to open a third front against Israel. Utilizing a route through Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan, Iranian-backed militias transport arms into the West Bank. This effort involves Hezbollah and local smuggling networks, moving advanced weaponry such as RPG launchers and anti-tank missiles. Iran’s strategy focuses on empowering loosely organized militant groups in the West Bank to carry out attacks against Israel. This subversion of Jordanian sovereignty poses a significant and growing threat to Israel’s security.
Iranian Warship Capsizes During Repairs in Bandar Abbas
The Iranian Navy’s destroyer Sahand capsized during repairs at a port in Bandar Abbas due to water infiltration into its ballast tanks. The 96-meter vessel tilted and became partially submerged but is now being refloated and repaired. The incident occurred as Sahand was being prepared for an anti-piracy patrol mission in the Indian Ocean. Previously, the frigate led a flotilla in the Red Sea amid Houthi attacks on commercial ships. Named after the Sahand volcano, this Moudge-class frigate joined Iran’s Navy in 2018 and is equipped with cruise missiles and stealth technology.
Everything You Need to Know About the Israel-Iran Conflict
Iran and Israel have long been geopolitical rivals, with tensions exacerbated since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution. Iran views Israel and the US as key enemies, while Israel considers Iran an existential threat. Their conflict involves proxy wars, espionage, and military actions. Iran supports groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, and Israel frequently targets Iranian assets in Syria. Recent escalations include Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets and Iran’s retaliatory attacks. Iran’s pursuit of nuclear capabilities further heightens tensions, with Israel strongly opposing a nuclear-armed Iran. The conflict remains a critical factor in Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Iran to Purchase 10 Billion Cubic Meters of Turkmen Gas Annually
Turkmenistan and Iran have signed a contract for the annual delivery of 10 billion cubic meters of Turkmen natural gas, which Iran will then ship to Iraq. To facilitate this, Iran will construct a new 125-kilometer pipeline to increase gas delivery capacity. Turkmenistan plans to boost its gas supplies to Iran to 40 billion cubic meters annually. This deal aims to meet rising domestic demand in Iran and support Turkmenistan’s economy, which heavily relies on natural gas exports. The partnership continues the ongoing gas swaps between the two nations, enhancing regional energy cooperation.
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★ YEMEN
Ansar Allah Leader Threatens Saudi Infrastructure
Abdul-Malik al-Houthi, leader of Ansar Allah, threatened to close Riyadh airport and target Saudi banks and ports in retaliation for Saudi actions he claims serve Israel and are driven by American influence. In a televised speech, al-Houthi criticized Saudi Arabia’s moves to transfer banks from Sana’a and disrupt Sanaa Airport, warning of escalated retaliation. He emphasized that Ansar Allah would respond to Saudi provocations with equivalent measures, urging Saudi Arabia to reconsider its steps to avoid further conflict and economic instability. Al-Houthi praised Yemen’s advanced military capabilities, which he claimed have blindsided the West, and highlighted the continuous downing of US MQ-9 Reaper drones.
Biden’s Strategy Fails; Time to Confront Houthis Directly
President Biden’s current defensive strategy against the Houthis has proven ineffective as attacks on military and commercial vessels in the Red Sea continue. US Central Command has struck multiple Houthi targets, but a more aggressive approach is necessary. Experts argue that the US must target Houthi launch sites, command centers, and supply chains from Iran. Retired Adm. James Stavridis suggests a four-phase offensive campaign to defeat the Houthis. As the Iranian-backed rebels intensify their assaults, the US needs a comprehensive strategy to dismantle their operations and protect global shipping routes.
US Forces Destroy Four Houthi Drones in 24 Hours
The US Army announced the destruction of four Houthi drones in the past 24 hours. US forces downed two drones in Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, while partner forces eliminated two more over the Gulf of Aden. These actions aimed to protect US and coalition forces, as well as commercial ships, from imminent threats.
Greek Frigate Shoots Down Houthi Drones in Red Sea
The Greek frigate Psara, part of the EU’s “Aspides” operation, successfully intercepted and neutralized Houthi drones targeting a commercial vessel in the Red Sea. Utilizing its anti-drone systems and guns, Psara engaged four UAVs, shooting down two and dispersing the others. This marked Psara’s first engagement in the Red Sea since replacing the Hydra. The operation aims to protect maritime routes from Houthi attacks, contributing to regional security. Greek officials emphasize the mission’s defensive nature, focusing on safeguarding shipping lanes vital for global trade.
Houthis Stage Mock Drills Targeting Israeli and British Sites
Houthi rebels in Yemen have conducted a large-scale military drill named ‘Al-Toofan Al-Modmr’ (‘The Devastating Flood Manoeuvre‘), showcasing their capabilities against mock Israeli and British targets. The dramatic footage shows Houthi fighters using drones, artillery, RPGs, and snipers. The exercise involved a thousand fighters and emphasizes their readiness for combat. This demonstration follows ongoing attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and reinforces their opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Houthis Accused of Using Espionage Allegations to Purge Internal Rivals
The Houthi militia in Sanaa has intensified arbitrary arrests of prominent leaders loyal to them under the guise of “spying for America and Israel.” Recently, the Houthi intelligence service detained Ali Abbas, director of Yahya al-Houthi’s office, and Ahmed Al-Nono, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education, along with three others on charges of espionage. This crackdown is part of a broader campaign targeting civil society employees and former officials, reflecting internal power struggles within the Houthi ranks. The arrests followed a meeting led by Houthi leader Mahdi Al-Mashat, who vowed to expand detentions under espionage accusations.
Yemen Foes Make Breakthrough in Prisoner Swap Talks: UN
The UN announced a significant breakthrough in Yemen’s prisoner swap talks held in Oman between the Yemeni government and Houthi rebels, although no final agreement was reached. Both sides agreed to release Mohamed Qahtan, a Sunni Islamist leader held by the Houthis since 2015. A follow-up meeting will finalize detainee names and release arrangements. This progress follows a reconciliation deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran, leading to prisoner releases and renewed peace efforts.
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★ IRAQ
Continuous Turkish Incursions into Dohuk, Silence from Baghdad and Erbil
Despite escalating Turkish bombings and incursions in Dohuk Governorate, Iraqi authorities in Baghdad and Erbil remain silent, while Iraqi political forces call for deterrence. Reports suggest an “implicit agreement” between Ankara, Baghdad, and Erbil allowing Turkiye to pursue the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) within Iraqi territory. Turkish forces have established numerous military points in Dohuk, intensifying their presence. Kurdish media reports Turkiye’s construction of military bases and checkpoints. Iraqi political coalitions urge strong measures to protect citizens and counter Turkish violations, while regional authorities struggle to respond effectively.
Mass Evacuation in Northern Iraq Following Turkish Incursion
Turkish forces have advanced up to 15 kilometers into Iraqi Kurdistan, conducting numerous strikes against the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). This operation has led to the evacuation of 602 villages in Duhok Province. The Community Peacemaker Teams reported 238 bombardments and the burning of over 20,000 dunams of agricultural land. This incursion, more extensive than previous operations, follows an April agreement allowing Turkiye to target the PKK within Iraq. The PKK is recognized as a terrorist group by Turkiye, the US, and the EU, with decades of conflict resulting in over 40,000 deaths.
Iran’s Quarterly Exports to Iraq Increase by 27%
Iran’s exports to Iraq reached $3.0 billion in the first quarter of the current Iranian year, marking a 27% increase from the same period last year, according to Farzad Piltan of Iran’s Commercial Consultancy Office in Baghdad. Key exports included natural gas, fresh apples, iron, and steel. Imports from Iraq also rose by 25%, totaling $107 million. Iran exports $12 billion worth of goods to Iraq annually, with trade relations growing significantly over the past 20 years.
GCC and Iraq Discuss Security and Economic Issues
Officials from the GCC and Iraq convened on Sunday to address Iraq’s security and economic issues, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency. Jasem Al-Budaiwi, GCC secretary-general, emphasized the meeting’s goal of enhancing cooperation. The GCC Ministerial Council had affirmed ongoing support for Iraq in its 160th session last month. The discussions covered various mutual interests, including recent regional and international developments.
ISIS Car Bomb Manufacturer Arrested in Iraq
Iraqi security forces have captured a senior ISIS terrorist responsible for manufacturing car bombs in a village 30 km south of Baghdad, according to the Iraqi military and Xinhua news agency. The arrest followed an intelligence-led operation by the Iraqi army and police in the Yusufiya area. The suspect, a key figure in ISIS’s bomb-making operations, had orchestrated numerous attacks on security forces and civilians.
Turkiye and Iraq’s Water Crisis Talks Highlight Need for Syrian Involvement
Turkiye and Iraq are advancing bilateral discussions on managing the Euphrates and Tigris rivers amid climate change concerns. The second round of talks for their permanent joint committee on water took place in Baghdad on July 1. Experts emphasize the necessity of including Syria to effectively resolve the historical water sharing disputes. Turkiye’s extensive dam construction since the 1960s has caused tension with Syria and Iraq, who also face challenges from civil conflicts and mismanagement. The ongoing climate crisis exacerbates the situation, underscoring the urgent need for cooperative water management among the three nations.
Oil Production in Iraq’s Kirkuk Reaches 360,000 Bpd
The North Oil Company (NOC) in Iraq has increased crude oil production in Kirkuk to over 360,000 barrels per day (bpd), with plans to reach 400,000 bpd by the end of 2024, according to Shafaq News Agency. This boost follows the development of several oil wells by the Iraqi Drilling Company. Of the current production, 150,000 bpd are supplied to Baiji and Dora refineries, and 100,000 bpd to other refineries. Meanwhile, oil exports from Kurdistan remain halted due to contractual disputes, affecting overall Iraqi oil exports and prompting calls for U.S. intervention to resolve the issue.
Iraq to Repatriate 150 ISIS-Linked Families from al-Hol Camp
Iraq will repatriate 150 families, totaling over 650 individuals, from northeast Syria’s al-Hol camp next week, according to Ali Abbas of Iraq’s Ministry of Migration and Displaced. These families, mostly Iraqi and Syrian, have been in al-Hol since ISIS’s defeat in 2019. The camp, holding 40,000 ISIS-linked individuals, is seen as a security threat. Repatriated families will move to Iraq’s al-Jada camp for reintegration. Iraq aims to repatriate all its nationals from al-Hol by 2027, in coordination with the UN.
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★ SYRIA
Erdogan’s Assad Invitation Sparks Public Discontent
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced he might invite Bashar al-Assad to Turkiye “at any time.” Erdogan highlighted possible collaborations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and emphasized a new agreement with Syria, rejecting interference in its internal affairs. Despite US opposition to normalization with Assad without a political solution, Turkiye is accelerating rapprochement with Syria. Experts suggest the US lacks leverage to stop Turkiye, due to its reliance on Kurdish forces in Syria and shifting priorities like the Ukraine war. Renewed diplomatic efforts, with Russian and Iraqi support, are gaining momentum. However, significant public discontent has emerged, with demonstrations in Idlib, Aleppo, Raqqa, Al-Hasakah, and Deir ez-Zor. Protesters, including those in Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham and SDF-controlled areas, condemned the reconciliation efforts, attacking Turkish positions and burning flags. Turkish intelligence and allied factions responded with mass arrests, forcing public apologies and handing over individuals to Turkish authorities for flag desecration.
Pro-Iranian Militias Strengthen Deir ez-Zor Amid Rising Tensions
Pro-Iranian militias in Deir ez-Zor have intensified their presence, deploying flying checkpoints and disguising their members as Assad’s “National Defense” militia in the Al-Hamidiyah neighborhood. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard has sent about 100 elite members of the 47th Brigade to Deir ez-Zor’s eastern countryside under Hajj Askar’s command, tasked with night combat missions, defending positions, and conducting raids. This move underscores Iran’s strategic interest in Deir ez-Zor, a crucial link in its land corridor from Tehran to Beirut. The escalation follows the arrival of three ZIL military vehicles with equipment and missile launchers in late June. Meanwhile, Coalition forces are bolstering bases and conducting joint exercises with the SDF at Al-Omar oil field. Iran’s presence poses a strategic threat to the SDF and Koniko gas field. Assad’s control over seven villages at Deir ez-Zor’s northern entrance, divided between Russian and Iranian influence, indicates potential operations towards the eastern Euphrates.
ISIS Ambush Highlights Regime’s Vulnerability in Syrian Desert
In a bold ambush, ISIS cells killed and wounded members of Syrian regime forces in Homs province’s desert on Saturday. The attack, which resulted in the death of Lieutenant Zein Samer Kamarakji and injuries to three others, occurred near Tal Shahab in the eastern Homs countryside. Despite Russian-backed forces and militias reinforcing their positions in the deserts of Deir Ezzor and Raqqa, the regime’s vulnerability remains evident. Military reinforcements, including the 25th Special Tasks Division, the 5th Corps, the 11th Division, the 5th Division, and the Republican Guard, have been dispatched to the Rasafa, Maadan, Al-Bishri, Al-Shula, and Kabajib areas to launch a new campaign against ISIS. However, last June saw nearly 70 regime and militia personnel killed by ISIS, underscoring the regime’s ongoing struggle to contain the insurgent threat in the region.
Sisi and Assad Unite Against Palestinian Displacement
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Bashar al-Assad discussed regional developments in a phone call, emphasizing the need to avoid conflict escalation and maintain regional stability. Both leaders firmly rejected any attempts to liquidate the Palestinian issue or displace Palestinians. Sisi reiterated Egypt’s commitment to achieving a ceasefire in Gaza, delivering sustainable humanitarian aid, and pursuing a two-state solution to establish an independent Palestinian state.
Russia Plans to Restore and Build Mills in Syria
A joint plan between the Syrian regime and Russia aims to restore and rebuild many destroyed mills and silos in Syria, according to Sami Halil, director of the Syrian General Organization for Grain. The initiative includes transferring Russian technology for the operation and production lines in Syrian silos and mills. The Talkalakh mill in the Homs countryside, rebuilt by Russia, will be operational by August, producing about 600 tons of flour per day in its experimental phase.
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★ EGYPT
Egyptian-Chinese Alliance to Build Third Phase of Electric Train
An Egyptian-Chinese alliance will soon start the third phase of the light electric train (LRT) project for $550 million. The project, awarded to Chinese companies Vic, Arab Contractors, and Orascom, aims for completion within two years. The 20.4-kilometer phase includes four new stations. Funding comes from a $400 million loan from the Export-Import Bank of China and additional financing from Egyptian banks in local currency. This phase will enhance Cairo’s connectivity with new urban and industrial areas. The Chinese bank loan will cover electrical and mechanical systems, while local funding will handle station construction and the route.
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★ THE GULF
Saudi Arabia Calls for Accountability on Israeli Violations
Saudi Arabia condemned the Israeli bombing of a UNRWA school housing displaced civilians in Gaza’s Nuseirat camp. The Foreign Ministry called for an immediate ceasefire and the protection of civilians and relief workers, urging the activation of international accountability mechanisms against ongoing Israeli violations of humanitarian law. The Gulf Cooperation Council echoed this condemnation, labeling the attacks as war crimes and urging global action to halt Israeli military operations. Both Saudi Arabia and the GCC reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause and protecting the Palestinian people from Israeli aggression.
DEWA Attracts $12 Billion in Investments Over 10 Years
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has secured investments worth $11.9 billion over the past decade through the Independent Energy and Water Producer model. This approach, designed to suit Dubai’s legislative and technical environment, has led to record-low global prices for solar energy projects. Key initiatives include the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, aiming for 5,000 megawatts by 2030, and the Hassyan natural gas and seawater desalination plants. These projects support Dubai’s Economic Agenda 2050 and its goal of 100% clean energy production by 2050, enhancing Dubai’s attractiveness to global investors.
Qatar’s Tourism Sector to Generate $25 Billion in 2024
Qatar’s travel and tourism sector is expected to achieve a record $25 billion in 2024, contributing 11.3% to the GDP and supporting over 334,500 jobs, representing 15.8% of the workforce. The World Travel and Tourism Council’s 2024 Economic Impact Report highlights a significant rise in international traveler spending, projected at 69.6 billion Qatari riyals, with domestic spending expected to reach 12 billion riyals. This success is attributed to the government’s collaboration with the private sector to enhance tourism. Doha aims to increase the sector’s GDP contribution to 12% by 2030 through innovative tourism products and global marketing efforts.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkish Parliament Speaker Kurtulmus Holds Strategic Meetings in DC
During his visit to the U.S. from July 6-10, Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus emphasized Türkiye’s potential to capitalize on the multipolar era’s opportunities. Speaking at a Turkish-American National Steering Committee (TASC) event, he stressed the importance of leveraging this new global landscape to enhance Türkiye’s economic, political, and cultural influence. He highlighted Türkiye’s strategic position and its ability to engage with diverse global actors, citing its unique role in mediating the Russia-Ukraine War. He attended a NATO parliamentary summit, a reception hosted by the U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, and met with Turkish journalists, businesspeople, and the Muslim community. Turkish Ambassador to the U.S. Sedat Onal noted the positive momentum in U.S.-Türkiye relations, emphasizing efforts to enhance cooperation and resolve disagreements.
250,000 Captagon Pills Bound for Turkiye Seized in Syria
A large drug shipment was intercepted in Afrin, northwest of Aleppo, intended for smuggling into Turkiye. Major Ibrahim Al-Jassim of the military police reported seizing around 250,000 Captagon pills after clashing with a drug gang. The shipment, allegedly from Lebanon, was also meant for local distribution. Although the gang escaped, authorities are pursuing other dealers. Previously, 500,000 Captagon pills were seized in Ras al-Ayn, linked to areas controlled by the Syrian regime. The regime is accused of being the main source of drugs in the region, impacting Turkiye and neighboring countries.
Turkiye Advances 15 Kilometers into Kurdistan Region
The Turkish army has advanced 15 kilometers into the Kurdistan Region, launching hundreds of strikes targeting Kurdish fighters, according to the Community Peacemaker Teams (CPT). The operation, involving hundreds of troops and vehicles, has established checkpoints in Duhok province’s Barwari Bala area, displacing at least one village. Since the operation began, Turkiye has conducted 238 bombardments, burning over 20,000 dunams of agricultural land. This surpasses the 2021 Claw-Lightning operation, which advanced 7 kilometers. Aimed at curbing PKK threats, Turkish forces have set up checkpoints near Balave and Belizani villages. Clashes have caused wildfires, destroying infrastructure, including a school and an Assyrian church. The Iraqi and Kurdistan Regional governments have not commented on the escalations. Turkiye’s strikes have increased fears of displacement among local villagers.
Türkiye’s Automotive Industry Sees Record Export Growth and Electric Car Boom
In the first half of 2024, Türkiye’s automotive industry recorded exports worth approximately $17.7 billion, with Germany leading the importers at $2.44 billion, followed by France ($2.07 billion), Britain ($1.94 billion), Italy ($1.67 billion), and Spain ($1.23 billion), accounting for 52.8% of Türkiye’s automotive exports. Domestic sales of cars and light commercial vehicles grew by 6% from January to May, totaling around 471,700 units. The electric car market saw a 257.3% surge in sales compared to the same period in 2023, with over 27,600 electric cars sold in the first five months, raising the market share to more than 7%.
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📌 In case you missed it,
📰 THE EARLY PHOENIX July 4, 2024
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