The Region’s Top Five:
★ Israel Obliterates Hezbollah’s Financial Network in Devastating Airstrikes
★ Israeli Military Secrets Exposed, US House Launches Probe
★ Hamas Ambush On Israeli Forces In Jabalia Camp
★ Gülen, Key Figure in U.S.-Turkey Tensions, Passes Away at 86
★ Saudi Authorities Seize 1.2 Million Captagon Pills at Border
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★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
Failed Assassination Attempt on Netanyahu by Hezbollah
A Hezbollah drone launched from Lebanon exploded near Prime Minister Netanyahu’s Caesarea home on Saturday. Netanyahu, who was not home at the time, called the attack a grave mistake and accused Hezbollah of attempting to assassinate him and his wife. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed it was one of three drones, with two intercepted. This marked the second direct strike on Netanyahu in recent months, following a missile attack by Yemen’s Houthi rebels in September. During a phone call with former U.S. President Donald Trump, Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s consideration for U.S. concerns but stated that decisions are based on Israel’s national interests. Israeli officials blamed Iran for the escalation, as Hezbollah launched dozens of projectiles.
Trump: “Decisive Leadership Is Essential To Ending The Region’s Violence And Restoring America’s Global Standing”
Former President Donald Trump outlined his vision for resolving the Middle East conflict, stressing the need for lasting peace rather than temporary ceasefires. A key condition of his plan is preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, which he identified as a red line. Trump vowed that, if re-elected, peace in the Middle East would be his top priority, highlighting his strong relationships with regional leaders, particularly Saudi Arabia’s Mohammed bin Salman. He promised to revive the stalled Abraham Accords, using them as a framework for broader cooperation and peace. Trump emphasized that decisive leadership is essential to ending the region’s violence and restoring America’s global standing. He also shared his personal connection to the region, expressing joy over his soon-to-be Arab-Lebanese grandchild and praising the Arab people’s intelligence and warmth. He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening ties between the U.S. and Arab communities.
Israel Obliterates Hezbollah’s Financial Network in Devastating Airstrikes
On Sunday night, Israeli airstrikes targeted 16 branches of Al-Qard Al-Hassan, Hezbollah’s financial institution, across Lebanon. Al-Qard al-Hassan, a financial entity sanctioned by the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, which Hezbollah uses to fund terrorist activities. The association, often referred to as Hezbollah’s “central bank,” plays a significant role in financing the group’s activities. The Israeli Defense Forces warned civilians near these locations to evacuate. Reports indicate that thousands of families supporting Hezbollah had loans backed by gold, much of which was left in iron safes that couldn’t be moved. Israeli strikes also caused panic in southern Lebanon, with displaced residents fleeing for safety.
Israel Shifts Strategy to Destroy Hezbollah’s Capabilities
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant announced a strategic shift from defeating Hezbollah to fully destroying its capabilities. Galant emphasized the army’s new objective is to eliminate Hezbollah’s influence and military power entirely.
This escalation follows estimates showing that while 80% of drones targeting Israel are intercepted, the remaining 20% pose significant risks by breaching defense systems. Israel has increased operations in southern Lebanon, aiming to control key border heights near Kfar Kila, Adaisseh, and Aita al-Shaab.
Israel Sets Demands for Hochstein’s Ceasefire
Israel has presented the U.S. with a list of demands to end the war in Lebanon, calling for the IDF to prevent Hezbollah’s rearmament and for Israeli air force freedom in Lebanese airspace. These demands contradict UN Resolution 1701, which Lebanon firmly rejects. U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein arrived in Beirut following Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah-linked sites near the airport. His visit focuses on ceasefire talks and adjusting Resolution 1701 to deploy Lebanese forces in the south. Lebanese officials, including Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, oppose changing the resolution, leaving a ceasefire uncertain.
IDF Strikes Beirut After Hezbollah Rocket Barrages Kill One
Hezbollah launched rocket barrages on northern Israel, killing one man and injuring at least ten others. In response, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) struck terror targets in Beirut and conducted their deepest ground operation in Lebanon. Alexei Popov, 51, from Kiryat Haim, died after debris from an interceptor hit him near Acre. Motorists are advised to exit vehicles during sirens. A 28-year-old was also injured by shrapnel in Kiryat Ata during the attacks.
Israel Kills Four Hezbollah Leaders in Lebanon Airstrikes
The Israeli army announced the assassination of four Hezbollah leaders, including Nasser Abdul Aziz Rashid, Abbas Salameh, Reda Abbas Aouda, and Ahmad Ali Hussein. Rashid was the deputy commander of Hezbollah operations in Lebanon, while Aouda and his wife were killed in Jounieh. The strikes also targeted Hezbollah’s intelligence headquarters in Beirut. Since October 1, Israel has launched extensive airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, resulting in widespread destruction, casualties, and mass displacement. In retaliation, Hezbollah shelled a military base near Haifa.
Hezbollah Launches 170 Rockets at Israel’s Northern Galilee Region
Israel launched 14 airstrikes on southern Lebanon’s Khiyam, causing extensive damage. Hezbollah launched 170 rockets toward Israel, triggering alarms in the Western and Upper Galilee regions, as well as Haifa on Sunday, targeting the Western and Upper Galilee regions. The first barrage of 70 rockets caused fires but no injuries or significant damage were reported. A second wave of 30 rockets targeted Safed, causing more fires but no casualties. Authorities closed parts of Route 90 due to rocket impacts. Earlier, drones from Hezbollah and other Iran-backed militias were intercepted, escalating tensions, but no injuries were reported.
Hezbollah Deputy Leader Leaves Lebanon Over Assassination Fears
Hezbollah’s deputy leader, Naim Qassem, fled Lebanon for Tehran earlier this month due to concerns over an Israeli assassination. He traveled with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on October 5, stopping in Damascus before reaching Tehran. Qassem’s later speeches after Nasrallah’s assassination were delivered from Tehran, while his first was from Beirut. Iranian officials directed Qassem’s move to Tehran, fearing an Israeli attempt on his life, prompting his evacuation from Lebanon.
Israeli Airstrikes Kill Three Hezbollah Commanders, Lebanese Soldiers
In the early hours of Sunday, Israeli airstrikes killed three Hezbollah commanders, including Abbas Salameh, Reda Abbas Aouda, and Ahmad Ali Hussein. The strikes targeted Hezbollah intelligence headquarters and an underground weapons facility in Beirut’s southern suburbs. Reda Aouda and his wife were killed in a strike on their car in Jounieh, marking the first time the area has been targeted. Simultaneously, an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon killed three Lebanese soldiers in a military vehicle. More than 82 Israeli airstrikes were reported on Saturday.
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★ IRAN
Classified U.S. Intel on Israel’s Iran Strategy, Leaked
U.S.-Israeli relations have been strained following the leak of U.S. intelligence monitoring Israeli military activities concerning Iran. The documents, published on Telegram, detail Israeli exercises on October 15-16, excluding strikes on Iranian oil or nuclear sites. Israeli officials suspect the leak may have been deliberate to highlight U.S. influence during the presidential elections. The Five Eyes alliance reportedly received the documents, which referenced Israeli plans to retaliate after Iran’s October 1 missile barrage, including potential strikes on Khamenei’s headquarters. U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed a classified briefing on Sunday with top officials regarding the leak. President Biden acknowledged the leak, with the FBI and Pentagon launching investigations. Former CIA officer Scott Uehlinger criticized the Biden administration’s security measures, suggesting Arianne Tabatabai’s informal ties with Iranian intelligence could be responsible. He linked the case to Robert Malley, emphasizing the need for accountability. Another U.S. official, Lincoln Bloomfield, downplayed the benefits for Iran, stressing potential risks for future intelligence breaches. Prime Minister Netanyahu had previously hinted at targeting IRGC and Basij forces to destabilize the regime and encourage internal uprising. Israel convened its security cabinet for a meeting on Sunday evening to discuss a range of issues, most notably a possible Israeli attack on Iran. U.S. Blinken will visit Israel, with sources expecting pressure to delay an attack on Iran. However, an Israeli official stated, “there will be an attack.” Postponing it could suggest U.S. approval, though Washington prefers action after the U.S. elections on November 5.
Iranian Officials Confirm Database of Potential Targets in Israel
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran has already identified potential targets in Israel and warned that any Israeli attack, particularly on nuclear facilities, would be met with a similar response. He emphasized that any attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities would cross a “red line” and trigger a response. Araghchi also noted that indirect talks between Tehran and Washington had halted due to regional tensions. Additionally, Ebrahim Rezaei, a spokesman for Iran’s Parliament, stated that Iran’s resistance forces have updated their list of targets, which now includes Zionists and their supporters in the region. Iran denies involvement in a drone attack on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s residence, attributing the act to Hezbollah. Iranian officials criticized Israel for spreading “lies,” escalating regional tensions between Israel, Iran, and allied factions.
Iranian Financial Markets Plummet as Conflict With Israel Grows
Escalating tensions between Iran and Israel have severely impacted Iran’s financial markets. Iran’s threats of regional war led to the Tehran Stock Exchange falling by 24,000 points, finishing just above two million. Additionally, the U.S. dollar and gold prices surged to record highs, signaling deep economic instability.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Hamas Ambush On Israeli Forces In Jabalia Camp
Israeli forces intensified operations late Friday, deploying helicopters, airstrikes, and heavy equipment to search for Hamas leaders and hostages in Gaza. The operations focused on Yahya Sinwar’s location after his killing. In other areas, Israeli airstrikes targeted Hamas positions in Beit Lahiya, while Israel dismissed Palestinian claims of 73 casualties as exaggerated. Hamas’ Health Ministry reported 84 Palestinians were killed in the last 24 hours raising the total death since their October 7, 2023 assault on Israel to 42,603, 99,800 others injured with an unknown number still trapped under rubble. Israel reiterated that Hamas uses civilians as human shields, operating from homes, hospitals, and schools during the conflict. Al-Quds Brigades released footage of fighters targeting Israeli Merkava tanks in Jabalia Camp. The attack involved landmines and sniper fire during Israel’s ongoing military operation in the region. Clashes continued, with intense fighting and casualties reported on both sides during the ongoing conflict.
Shin Bet Chief Visits Egypt to Discuss Hostage Deal
Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar visited Cairo to meet with Egyptian intelligence head Hassan Rashad and discuss a new hostage deal. This is Bar’s first visit since Sinwar’s death, who had blocked previous deals. Despite optimism over potential progress, Israeli officials indicate little can be done until the ongoing escalation with Iran concludes. The Israeli military intercepted a weapon smuggling attempt from Egypt using a drone, recovering eight pistols and magazines near the Baran Brigade area. Hostage families have urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to act swiftly, while the Israeli government plans military and diplomatic pressure on Hamas.
Israel Files Legal Action Against Macron’s Trade Show Ban
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz announced legal action against French President Emmanuel Macron for excluding Israeli companies from the Euronaval trade show in Paris. Katz condemned the decision, which affects seven Israeli firms, labeling it undemocratic and calling for its reversal. Tensions between Israel and France have escalated due to this ban, set against the backdrop of broader disagreements over regional security. The military naval trade show is scheduled for November 4-7. European nations continue arms sales to Israel. The F-35 fighter jets, central to Israel’s military operations in Gaza, have sparked legal challenges in Europe.
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★ IRAQ
Iraq and Iran Agree to Build Border Terminal on Railway
Iran and Iraq railway officials have agreed to build a border terminal along the Shalamcheh-Basra railway to enhance regional trade. Iran will construct a bridge over the Arvand River, while Iraq will build a 32-kilometer railway from Shalamcheh to Basra. The first phase includes land transfer to Iran’s railway authority, with construction starting immediately. This agreement revives stalled MOUs from 2012 and 2015, aiming to improve cross-border transport.
Iraq to Revoke MBC License After Terrorist Remarks
Iraq’s media commission plans to revoke Saudi-owned MBC’s license following the broadcaster’s labeling of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders as terrorists. The remarks sparked protests, with around 400 to 500 demonstrators storming MBC’s offices, damaging equipment, and setting the building on fire. Iraqi security forces intervened to disperse the crowd and extinguish the blaze. The incident reflects growing tensions between Iraq and Saudi Arabia over the portrayal of regional groups.
Iraq’s Kurds Vote Facing Disillusionment and Political Stagnation
Iraq’s Kurdistan region held elections as voters expressed dissatisfaction with entrenched political elites and the lack of meaningful change. Despite its stability and ties with the U.S. and Europe, the region struggles with corruption and political repression. The election, delayed four times due to disputes between the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), underscores political dominance by the Barzani and Talabani families. Economic hardships and public frustration further reduce hopes for significant political or economic progress.
Iraqi Airstrike Kills Four IS Militants, Including Leader
An Iraqi airstrike killed four IS militants, including a senior leader, after days of surveillance in Salahudin province’s northern region. The strike destroyed weapons, ammunition, explosive belts, and communication devices. The Security Media Cell confirmed the operation as part of Iraq’s ongoing efforts to combat IS remnants, who continue guerrilla attacks despite their 2017 defeat.
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★ SYRIA
Assad Sets Refugee Terms as Captagon Smuggling Surges Regionally
Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi made an unannounced visit to Damascus, relaying a message from King Abdullah II to Bashar al-Assad. The visit followed Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s meeting with King Abdullah in Aqaba, where she urged the EU to renew ties with Assad to tackle illegal migration. In response, Assad outlined a legal framework regulating the return of Syrian citizens, likely targeting regime opponents with legal scrutiny or punishment. The discussions also covered strengthening bilateral relations and addressing Jordan’s concerns over drug smuggling across the border. The visit occurred after Saudi authorities intercepted 1.2 million Captagon pills smuggled from Syria.
Autonomous Administration Offers Germany Alternative for Deporting Syrians to Assad
Ilham Ahmed, co-chair of the Foreign Relations Department of the Autonomous Administration in northeastern Syria, expressed readiness to negotiate the return of Syrian refugees from Germany. During a visit to Germany on October 19, 2024, Ahmed highlighted the region’s progress in building infrastructure, including schools and security forces. The proposal offers an alternative to deporting refugees to Assad-controlled areas, allowing Germany to send back refugees, including criminals, without engaging with the Syrian regime. Ahmed emphasized that improving the region’s economy is necessary to support larger numbers of returning refugees.
Iran Seeks to Expand Economic Influence In Assad’s Syria
Iran’s Trade Development Organization has submitted a Free Trade Agreement addendum with Syria for parliamentary approval. The agreement, which covers 100 goods, aims to boost trade between the two countries. Mohammad Sadegh Qanadzadeh, Deputy for International Business Development, stated that the Economic Committee has approved the addendum, and parliamentary approval is expected to follow quickly. With Syria’s $6 billion foreign trade market, largely import-based, Iran seeks to expand its economic influence in the region through this agreement.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Gulf States Support Israel’s Response to Iranian Threats
Gulf states have expressed support for Israel’s planned response to Iran’s October 1 missile attack, according to information from Israeli sources. Despite Iranian threats, Gulf countries are urging Israel to deliver a decisive and clear response and are coordinating precautions in case of retaliation.
UAE President Strengthens Ties with Russia and Highlights Diplomatic Role
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in Moscow to strengthen economic, trade, investment, and energy ties with Russia. His talks with President Vladimir Putin will address key regional and international issues, including Middle East challenges. Sheikh Mohamed will also attend the 16th BRICS Summit, marking the UAE’s debut as a member. The visit follows a successful UAE-brokered prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, where 190 prisoners were exchanged, adding to the 2,184 exchanged this year. The UAE continues to emphasize peace, dialogue, and humanitarian support, enhancing its international diplomatic role.
Gulf Markets Fall as Oil Prices Decline and Tensions Rise
Gulf stock markets fell on Sunday due to regional tensions and a sharp drop in oil prices. Saudi Arabia’s index dropped 0.2%, with declines in Aqua Power and National Bank of Saudi Arabia. Qatar’s index decreased by 1.1%, led by a 1.5% drop in Qatar National Bank shares. Egypt’s main index fell 2%, driven by a decline in Commercial International Bank. Oil prices fell over 7% last week due to concerns about Chinese economic growth and Middle East tensions.
Saudi Authorities Seize 1.2 Million Captagon Pills at Border
Saudi authorities intercepted over 1.2 million Captagon pills hidden in a marble mixer shipment at the Halat Ammar border On October 18. Following detection, the operation led to the arrest of two suspects within the Kingdom through coordination between Saudi Customs and the General Directorate for Drug Control.
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★ TURKIYE
Gülen, Key Figure in U.S.-Turkey Tensions, Passes Away at 86
Fethullah Gülen, accused of orchestrating Turkey’s failed July 15, 2016 coup, died at 86 in Pennsylvania. Born in Erzurum, Turkey, in 1938, he founded the Hizmet Movement, establishing schools across over 160 countries. Gülen lived in the U.S. since 1999 and became a central figure in strained U.S.-Turkey relations. After the coup attempt, Turkey demanded his extradition, citing his alleged involvement, but the U.S. refused, citing insufficient evidence. This led to a diplomatic standoff, with Turkey accusing the U.S. of harboring a terrorist, while Gülen denied the charges, asserting the coup was staged. Turkish media reported that Gülen, who had suffered from cardiovascular problems and dementia, recently moved to a new residence in Pennsylvania and was seen exiting his home shortly before his death.
Turkish FM Says Israel Is Triggering A Global War
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned that escalating tensions between Israel and Iran could trigger a global war, likely drawing in the United States. He criticized Israel’s actions, accusing them of pushing the region toward a wider conflict. During a meeting in Istanbul with Hamas leaders, following Yahya Sinwar’s death, Fidan also discussed ceasefire efforts and hostage negotiations.
Turkey-Iran Rivalry Balanced by Growing Cooperation Against Israel
The historical rivalry between Iran and Turkey, rooted in sectarian and political differences since the Safavid and Ottoman empires, continues to influence their roles in the Arab Levant. Despite this competition, particularly in Lebanon and Iraq, both nations are increasing cooperation, especially in opposition to Israel. During a regional tour, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi visited Turkey for the 3+3 meeting in Istanbul, discussing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon while conveying greetings from President Bezhkyan. In his meeting with Turkish President Erdogan, Araqchi stressed the need for Turkey-Iran cooperation to confront Israeli risks. Both leaders discussed strengthening trade, economic ties, tourism, and counterterrorism, condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza and Lebanon. They called for urgent international intervention to restore peace, with both countries backing Hamas and Iran also supporting Hezbollah. While Iran builds influence through religious ties with Arab Shiites, Turkey relies on economic and cultural connections with Arab nations, whose leaders generally favor Turkey’s model.
Erdogan Criticizes Germany’s Pro-Israel Stance in Gaza Conflict
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan criticized Germany’s support for Israel during a press conference with Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Erdogan’s sarcastic remark about the media fueled tension, and he condemned Israel’s military actions, calling for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid. He accused Israel of pursuing “genocidal” policies, citing the deaths of 50,000 Gazans. Scholz defended Israel‘s right to self-defense, highlighting their differing stances but reaffirming the need for bilateral cooperation. The exchange underscored Turkey and Germany’s contrasting positions on the Gaza conflict.
Britain Leads Eurofighter Jet Talks, Turkey Open to Refugees
Following a meeting in Istanbul, Turkish President Erdogan announced Turkey’s openness to receiving refugees from Lebanon. He and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz discussed Middle East tensions and potential defense cooperation, including a Eurofighter Typhoon jet deal. Scholz confirmed Britain’s leadership in advancing the agreement, with Eurofighter Typhoons produced by Germany, the UK, Italy, and Spain, enhancing NATO cooperation. Turkey seeks to modernize its military fleet after facing U.S. Congress opposition to F-16 sales. Despite the strain of Syrian refugees, Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s readiness to welcome more refugees.
Turkey Renames Central Asia to “Turkestan” in School Curricula
Turkey has renamed “Central Asia” as “Turkestan” in its school curricula, aiming to emphasize the region as the homeland of the Turks. This move, which may face Russian opposition, affects former Soviet republics where Turkey seeks to expand influence. Ankara’s efforts are seen as part of a political strategy to foster a common identity among Turks across Central Asia. The change is supported by Turkish nationalists, particularly within the ruling coalition. Turkey’s growing presence in the region, including educational and investment initiatives, could strain relations with Moscow.
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★ YEMEN
Yemeni Analyst Rejects Foreign Affairs’ Flawed Houthi Conflict Analysis
A Foreign Affairs analysis urges Saudi Arabia to contain the Houthis through economic pressure and political intervention. Yemeni analyst Dr. Fares Al-Bail criticized this, advocating for military and political support to Yemen’s legitimate government to dismantle the Houthi regime. The U.S. and U.K warplanes continue to conduct airstrikes on Houthi positions in Hodeidah after the last 15 airstrikes in Sana’a and Saada. According to Dr. Al Bail, the recent American actions dramatically worsened the Houthis’ situation in addition to the looming oil crisis. Al-Bail insists only a combined military and peace effort can resolve the conflict. Foreign Policy has long criticized Saudi Arabia, particularly Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, for the humanitarian toll in Yemen. Dr. Al Bail emphasized that local, legally-backed forces can eliminate the Houthis.
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★ EGYPT
Egypt’s Economic Pressure, Energy Goals, and Diplomatic Moves Highlighted
At the Global Conference on Population, Health, and Human Development, President Sisi urged IMF flexibility to ease Egypt’s economic burdens, reflecting the pressures on citizens. Meanwhile, Petroleum Minister Karim Badawi announced a reduction in Egypt’s 2040 renewable energy target from 58% to 40%, with natural gas remaining a crucial fuel source. At the Mediterranean Offshore Conference, Badawi oversaw agreements with international companies focusing on sustainability, energy efficiency, and decarbonization in the petroleum sector. Diplomatic discussions in Cairo between Egyptian and Romanian officials addressed stalled negotiations on the Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and Egypt’s concerns over water security. Egypt reaffirmed its right to protect water interests under international law.
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