Sept 23, 2024
Top Headlines:
★ Hezbollah’s Elite Radwan Brigade Eliminated
★ Over 80 Strikes, Extensive Damage, Evacuation Notices
★ Iran Unveils Ballistic Missile, Shahed-136B Drones
★ Iraqi Two Of Five Strikes Reach Tiberias and Beisan
★ Israel Advances into Syrian Territory to Expand “Sufa 53”
★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
Hezbollah Strikes Cause Power Outages Damages 50 Homes
Around 130 rockets were fired from southern Lebanon into northern Israel on Friday morning. The rockets hit Safed and the Golan Heights, causing power outages and fires. In response, Israeli forces launched airstrikes on towns in southern Lebanon. The airstrikes targeted locations including Taybeh and Kfar Kila. The Israeli army stated they destroyed 100 Hezbollah missile platforms during these strikes. Hezbollah retaliated by firing Katyusha rockets at several Israeli military sites. In Metula, 50 homes were damaged from the ongoing shelling. A total of 300 homes have been affected since the conflict began.
Hezbollah’s Elite Radwan Brigade Eliminated in Dahia, Beirut
Two days after Operation Grim Beeper, Israel executed a third significant strike in Beirut’s Dahia Janoubia, on Friday afternoon. Guided by detailed intelligence from Israeli services, the strike targeted two residential buildings, decisively impacting Hezbollah’s operational capabilities by eliminating the entire Radwan Brigade leadership. Seventeen senior Hezbollah commanders including Abu Hassan Samir and other key figures responsible for various commands were eliminated. The Radwan Brigade is an elite unit within Hezbollah, known for its advanced tactical capabilities and role in special operations. The final results of the operation are still pending, with eleven individuals trapped under debris and 50 confirmed fatalities. Israeli Chief of Staff Herzl Halevi personally ordered the assassination just before the operation. Lebanon’s caretaker PM Mikati stated that more than 1,600 of those injured in Operation Grim Beeper are still hospitalized.
Ibrahim Aqil Led Key Operations, U.S. Wanted, Killed
Ibrahim Aqil, second in command of Hezbollah, was involved in anti-U.S. activities, including the 1983 Beirut bombings. In the 1990s, he led Hezbollah’s central training and later supervised operations in Jabal Amel. By 1997, he directly oversaw many missions. From 2008, he served as deputy to the Secretary-General for operations and joined Hezbollah’s Jihad Council. Aqil played a key role in resisting the 2006 Israeli aggression on Lebanon and led the elite Radwan Force until his death. He also planned operations on Lebanon’s eastern borders and in Syria. The U.S. had offered a $7 million reward for information leading to his capture. The operation involved precise real-time tracking and targeting, following Aqil’s in and out of the hospital movements. After the October 7 assault on Israel, Aqil led attacks against Israel and was planning and overseeing a ground invasion of Galilee.
IDF Destroys 400 Hezbollah Launchers
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched approximately 70 strikes across southern Lebanon, dismantling 400 Hezbollah launchers and thousands of launcher barrels aimed at Israeli territory. 50 of the airstrikes were conducted in less than 40 minutes targeting military positions following 90 projectiles initiated against Galilee, Golan, and Safed regions. A special security state was declared from Haifa to the northern regions of Israel on Saturday.
Hezbollah Fires 110 Rockets Deep Into Northern Israel
In the early hours of Sunday, Hezbollah fired four waves of rockets into Israel, using Fadi 1 and Fadi 2 types, marking the first time these specific models have been deployed since the beginning of the war. The attacks primarily targeted the Haifa region. The rockets caused light to moderate injuries to four people and a dairy farm. Israeli forces responded by attacking Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, with reported strikes on areas such as Mahmoudieh, Ein Qana, and Zibqin. The use of Fadi 1 and Fadi 2 rockets, named after Hezbollah operative Fadi al-Tawil, represents an escalation in the conflict. The introduction of these powerful weapons, the Fadi 1 The Fadi 1 Warhead, with an 83 kg weight, 220 mm diameter, 6 meters length, and 70 km range. The Fadi 2 features a 170 kg warhead, 302 mm diameter, 6 meters length, and a range of 100 km.
Israeli Army Adds Nasrallah to Assassination List
Shin Bet uncovered eight recruitment attempts by Iran and Hezbollah targeting Israeli leaders. Israeli media suggest this could lead to a comprehensive operation against Hezbollah. The operation may include the assassination of Hezbollah’s Secretary-General, Hassan Nasrallah. Tel Aviv is giving Nasrallah time to respond to an American-brokered settlement, aiming to return displaced northern Israeli residents. This is viewed as the final chance before potential military escalation, with Nasrallah’s decision crucial for the conflict’s next phase.
Netanyahu Vows Retaliation After Strikes Surpass Hezbollah’s Expectations
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that Hezbollah “will get the message” after Israel’s recent military strikes exceeded the militant group’s expectations. He stated the conflict with Hezbollah is a war against Iran, emphasizing the mission to secure two million Israelis.
IDF Conducts Over 80 Strikes, Extensive Damage In Beqaa
The strikes targeted several southern Lebanon villages Monday morning. At least nine Beqaa sites were destroyed, killing one civilian and wounding dozens. Unofficial reports suggest Hezbollah’s air defense attempted to fire missiles at Israeli aircraft. Israeli missiles struck a mountainous area near Almat, Jbeil District, without causing injuries or damage. This marked the first strike in a neighborhood between Christian and Shiite villages. A second wave of strikes occurred three hours later. Lebanese residents reported receiving IDF evacuation notices via their phones. Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari confirmed its readiness for operations across multiple fronts, including Iraq, Yemen, and Iran. Hagari warned that raids in southern Lebanon will continue. When asked about a potential ground invasion, he said Israel would take any necessary actions.
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★ ISRAEL & PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES
Israeli Strikes Target Hamas Leaders, Civilians Killed in Gaza
Over the weekend, Israeli airstrikes targeted Hamas leaders and infrastructure in Gaza, killing Muhammad Mansour and several other militants. Two Hamas terrorists involved in killing six Israeli hostages were also eliminated, with DNA evidence confirming their involvement. Israeli strikes hit former schools used by Hamas as command centers, killing 21 people, including 13 children and six women. Another airstrike in Rafah killed 43 Palestinians, including 14 children and five women, as Hamas targeted Israeli soldiers and homes with rocket attacks.
Gideon Sa’ar Declines Defense Minister Role Amid Northern Escalation
Gideon Sa’ar confirmed he was offered the defense minister role but declined due to escalating tensions on Israel’s northern border. Although he initially agreed to take the position, he reconsidered and informed the prime minister of his decision. Sa’ar expressed concerns that his appointment would increase pressure on current Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and be used to incite against him, especially during this critical period of heightened tensions on the northern front.
IDF Raids Al Jazeera Office, Allegations of Terrorism Support
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) raided Al Jazeera’s Ramallah bureau in the West Bank, serving a 45-day closure order. Israeli authorities accused the Qatari network of incitement and support of terrorism, claiming ties to Hamas and Hezbollah. Israeli soldiers entered the office, confiscated equipment, and shut down live broadcasts. Al Jazeera, however, condemned the closure, describing it as a violation of press freedom and an attempt to suppress coverage of the Gaza conflict. Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi defended the operation, calling Al Jazeera an “enemy channel,” while Hamas expressed solidarity with the network.
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★ IRAN
Iran Unveils Ballistic Missile, Shahed-136B Drones
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard showcased a new ballistic missile and the Shahed-136B suicide drone during a military parade. The parade marked the anniversary of the Iran-Iraq war, displaying 23 ballistic missiles and naval power. The event included 580 ships, warships, and 104 trucks showcasing military equipment.
Iranian Revolutionary Guards Ban Communication Devices After Breaches
Following attacks on communication devices used by Hezbollah, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard banned the use of all such equipment. Senior Iranian officials revealed a large-scale operation to inspect all devices, fearing Israeli infiltration. Investigations targeted mid-level and senior Guards leaders, examining bank accounts and travel histories. Tehran heightened security measures, especially for nuclear and missile facilities, following Israeli sabotage attempts. Iran stopped using pagers decades ago, relying on encrypted communication devices. Recent explosions of Hezbollah’s walkie-talkies killed dozens and injured thousands, prompting collaboration between Hezbollah and Iranian experts.
Coal Mine Explosion in Iran Claims 51 Lives, Rescue Ongoing
An explosion at an Iranian coal mine killed at least 51 workers, with 22 still trapped inside. The disaster occurred due to a methane gas leak, triggering the explosion while 69 workers were present at the site. Rescue teams are actively working to save the remaining workers. The Iranian Red Crescent continues its search efforts, despite difficulties caused by accumulated gas. This follows previous deadly mining accidents in Iran, including a 2017 explosion that killed 43 workers in Azadshahr.
Iran’s President Heads to UN with 40-Person Delegation, Including Family
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian sparked controversy by traveling to New York for the United Nations General Assembly with a delegation of 40, including family members. His two sons, daughter, and son-in-law joined him, raising concerns about nepotism. Reports highlight secrecy around the delegation, which includes key officials such as Abbas Araghchi.
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★ IRAQ
Iraqi Militias Launch Five Strikes, Struggle After Assassination
The Iranian-led Iraqi Shiite militias seemed to be “making more noise than usual,” said Abu AliExpress. He referred to the five strikes launched from Iraq against Israel in a single day. According to the Jerusalem Post, the army clarified that the targets did not enter Israeli airspace, with sirens being activated as per protocol. Following the alarm in Doviv, located in the Upper Galilee, the incident was later declared a false alarm. Arabic media reported that two drones reached Tiberias and Beisan, highlighting the unprecedented distance the missiles were able to reach. The fifth, using Arfad-type UAVs, targeted an Israeli post in the Jordan Valley. Israeli experts suggest that today’s Iraqi “noise” might be linked to the precise assassination of their leader Abu Haider al-Khafaji in Damascus on Friday. Arab experts are also questioning the militia’s ability to transfer 100,000 fighters to Lebanon, as vowed after last week’s debilitating Operation Grim Beeper.
State of Law Coalition Moves $1B, Transfers $949M Abroad
The Central Bank of Iraq sold over $1 billion in recent days, funneling funds to banks controlled by corrupt political parties, including the State of Law Coalition. This illegal practice highlights ongoing political corruption, with over $949 million transferred abroad. These banks, tied to powerful political figures, exploit the central bank’s auctions to finance their activities. Despite slightly lower sales compared to last week, the real issue is the continuous abuse of the banking system for illicit enrichment, undermining Iraq’s financial integrity and accountability. U.S. officials should be aware of the scale of this corruption.
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★ SYRIA
Israel Advances into Syrian Territory to Expand “Sufa 53” Project
Israeli forces entered Syria’s Quneitra province, with tanks and bulldozers, advancing 200 meters to continue the controversial “Sufa 53” project. Israeli machinery cleared agricultural lands, dug trenches, and constructed dirt barriers, further encroaching into Syrian territory along the border region. The operation involved heavy equipment, including Merkava tanks, operating near Jabata al-Khashab and an Israeli observation post in the al-Shahar area. Every kilometer, Israeli forces established new monitoring posts, reinforced by five-meter-high dirt fortifications for enhanced border security. Israel has not officially commented, and Syrian state media remain silent about this border encroachment.
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★ YEMEN
Al-Houthi Claims Houthis’ Military Capabilities Surpass Many Nations’ Forces
Abdul Malik al-Houthi, leader of the militia, released a video threatening retaliation against Israel and reaffirming support for Hezbollah. He called Israel and the United States “enemies of the nation” and vowed a ground battle against Israel. Al-Houthi referenced a recent successful missile attack that reached Tel Aviv in his speech. He announced that the Houthis possess advanced military capabilities, including drones and missiles, surpassing many countries. Al-Houthi emphasized Yemen’s progress in drone technology, naval power, and missile strength for defense purposes. CENTCOM’s last engagement with the Houthi group was on September 19 destroying only one drone after its launch.
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★ EGYPT & AFRICA
Egypt Increases Israeli Gas Imports By 20% Starting October
Egypt plans to raise its Israeli gas imports by 20% beginning in October, reaching 1.2 billion cubic feet daily. This boost aims to reduce Egypt’s reliance on liquefied natural gas imports during the winter season, according to a government official. As of this month, Egypt has already increased its Israeli gas imports by 18%, with current imports hitting 1 billion cubic feet per day compared to 850 million cubic feet in July.
Tensions Rise as Ethiopia, Egypt, Somalia Clash Over Dam
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam dispute continues to escalate between Ethiopia, Somalia, and Egypt. Following Egypt’s recent shipment of military equipment to Somalia, Ethiopia responded by sending unauthorized arms to the Puntland region, prompting concerns over regional security. Somalia’s Foreign Ministry condemned Ethiopia’s actions, accusing the country of violating Somalia’s sovereignty and endangering stability in the Horn of Africa.
Egypt and Armenia’s Trade Reaches $87 Million in Seven Months
Egypt and Armenia’s trade exchange reached $87 million in the first seven months of 2024, a record high. This figure is more than triple the amount recorded in 2023. Armenian Ambassador to Cairo, Hrachya Arshak Poladian, stated that multiple Egyptian and Armenian companies are currently exploring investment opportunities across various sectors. These sectors include food industries, tourism, healthcare, and information technology.
Egypt Faces $10 Billion Financing Gap in Current Fiscal Year
A government official estimated that Egypt is facing a $10 billion financing gap for the fiscal year 2024-2025. The country plans to address this gap primarily through issuing international sukuk and bonds. Egypt aims to tap into international markets during the current fiscal year to sell dollar-denominated debt, including Eurobonds, marking its first such issuance since late 2021.
Egypt and French Development Agency Strengthen Cooperation with €3 Billion Portfolio
The joint cooperation portfolio between Egypt and the French Development Agency underscores the strong ties between the two nations, with total financing exceeding €3 billion since 2006 for public sector projects and private sector investments. The agency also manages €150 million in EU development grants. According to the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, this partnership has advanced development efforts across sectors such as environment, housing, energy, transport, agriculture, small and medium enterprises, and health, boosting Egypt’s progress in multiple fields.
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★ TURKIYE
Lieutenant General Warns Israel’s Cyber Power Poses Growing Threat
Lieutenant General İsmail Hakkı Pekin highlighted cyber warfare risks, urging Türkiye to strengthen defenses against potential Israeli cyberattacks. Pekin warned that Türkiye’s defense industry and research and development projects could be sabotaged through electronic warfare tactics. He emphasized the emerging threat of new warfare systems where cyber programs disrupt national operations without physical conflict. Following recent cyberattacks in Lebanon, Pekin called for urgent cybersecurity measures to protect Türkiye’s critical infrastructure.
Turkish Police Arrest 88 Suspected ISIS Members in Nationwide Anti-Terrorism Operation
Turkish authorities arrested 88 suspects linked to ISIS during a coordinated five-day operation across 23 provinces nationwide. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed the arrests on social media platform “X,” emphasizing the importance of ongoing counterterrorism efforts. The operation, called “Operation Spike-15,” involved cooperation between the intelligence and counterterrorism divisions of the General Directorate of Security. The nationwide crackdown highlights Türkiye’s continued focus on preventing ISIS activities and enhancing national security measures. These arrests are a critical step in protecting Türkiye from terrorism threats and ensuring public safety.
28,000 Companies Close in Turkey in First Eight Months of 2024
Turkey saw 28,172 companies close in the first eight months of 2024 due to rising costs and economic challenges. According to the Turkish Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges, 57,000 traders also shut down, reflecting the growing financial strain. Company formations decreased by 14.2% compared to the same period in 2023, signaling broader economic issues for businesses. Real commercial enterprises experienced a 28.6% decline, while cooperatives dropped by 13.2%, worsening the overall business climate. The number of company closures increased by 25.4%, showcasing escalating difficulties in sustaining business operations across Turkey.
Turkish Defense Firm STM to Showcase Advanced Technologies Across Three Countries
Turkish defense firm STM will display naval platforms and tactical mini-UAV systems in Azerbaijan and the Philippines after South Africa. At Africa Aerospace and Defense 2024 in South Africa, STM exhibited Türkiye’s MILGEM Ada-class corvette, STM-MPAC attack craft, and STM500 submarine. The KARGU, Türkiye’s first national attack UAV, was also prominently featured, showcasing its combat-proven capabilities. STM will next attend ADEX 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan, to display naval platforms and UAV systems, including the BOYGA and TOGAN UAVs. STM will then showcase its technologies at ADAS-2024 in the Philippines for enhanced global visibility.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Saudi Arabia Records Highest International Tourism Growth Among G20 in 2024
Saudi Arabia recorded the highest growth in international tourism among G20 countries, with a 73% increase in tourists and 207% rise in revenues compared to 2019. The Kingdom welcomed 17.5 million tourists in the first seven months of 2024. In 2023, it had 27.4 million visitors, generating a SAR48 billion surplus. The IMF praised these achievements, highlighting the tourism sector’s vital role in economic diversification under Saudi Vision 2030, contributing to visitor numbers, spending, and job creation.
GCC and Iran Discuss Strengthening Cooperation and Stability in New York
GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the 79th UN General Assembly in New York. They discussed enhancing GCC-Iran relations and explored ways to strengthen cooperation for mutual benefit. Both emphasized the importance of recent regional and international developments, reaffirming their shared commitment to promoting stability and security in the Middle East. The meeting highlighted the need to strengthen ties to address ongoing challenges and support future cooperation.
$ 97.82 Billion Total Non-Oil Trade Between UAE and United States Over Three Years
The UAE and the U.S. recorded 97.82 billion U.S. dollars in non-oil trade over three years. In 2023, trade surged by over 23%, totaling approximately 40.35 billion U.S. dollars. U.S. imports made up 66.5% of this trade, while UAE exports accounted for 10.5%. Additionally, UAE direct investment in the U.S. reached around 40 billion dollars in 2022, solidifying the UAE’s position as a key investor in the American market.
$ 550 Billion Qatar Bank Assets by End of August 2024
Qatar’s commercial banks’ assets rose by 6.84% year-on-year, surpassing 550 billion U.S. dollars for the first time. By August 2024, total assets reached approximately 550 billion U.S. dollars, up from 514.84 billion U.S. dollars in August 2023. Year-to-date, assets grew by 1.65%, while domestic assets increased by 6.70% to 453.02 billion U.S. dollars. Additionally, foreign assets saw an annual growth of 13.26%, reflecting the banks’ robust performance.
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