★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
Hezbollah Launches Rockets at Israeli Bases Near Tel Aviv and Haifa
Hezbollah launched rockets at a naval base near Haifa and two sites near Tel Aviv, including an Israeli military intelligence base. Air raid sirens sounded in Tel Aviv, though no casualties have been reported yet. Hezbollah confirmed the “Stella Maris” naval base near Haifa was hit with a precision-guided rocket salvo, escalating the ongoing conflict.
Israeli Airstrike Hits Near Masnaa Border Crossing
Israeli aircraft conducted an airstrike near the Masnaa border crossing between Syria and Lebanon on Monday evening. The strike targeted the Wadi al-Hareer area, situated between the Masnaa and Jdeidet Yabous crossings, creating a large crater.
IDF Intensifies Lebanon Operation, Targets Hezbollah’s Galilee Invasion Threat
The IDF has escalated its operation in southern Lebanon, deploying four divisions and reserve brigades to neutralize Hezbollah’s Galilee invasion threat. Hundreds of Hezbollah operatives have retreated into tunnels, occasionally engaging IDF forces. The IDF aims to capture as many operatives as possible for intelligence purposes, with dozens already detained. Additionally, forces are clearing Hezbollah’s firing infrastructure near the border using bulldozers and controlled detonations, destroying structures that overlook Israeli settlements and military positions.
Hezbollah and Israel Exchange Fire in Escalating Cross-Border Conflict
Israel continued airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, while Hezbollah launched rockets at Israeli targets, including naval and military intelligence bases. Ten rockets were fired from Lebanon towards northern Israel, seriously injuring six Israelis. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for bombing a naval base near Haifa and firing missiles at the Glilot base, home to Israel’s 8200 Military Intelligence Unit. In response, Israel targeted Hezbollah’s naval base in Beirut and other command centers.
Israel Reveals Hezbollah’s Hidden $500M Bunker in Beirut
Israeli military officials disclosed that Hezbollah is hiding over $500 million in cash and gold beneath al-Sahel Hospital in Beirut. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the bunker, once run by Hezbollah’s former leader, is deliberately located under the hospital. Although Israel has no plans to target the facility, the IDF has called on Lebanese authorities to investigate and prevent Hezbollah from using the funds for terrorism. This revelation follows a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah’s operations in Lebanon.
Hezbollah Strikes Israeli Military Intelligence Base Near Tel Aviv
Hezbollah announced it launched an advanced missile strike on Israel’s Glilot base, home to Unit 8200 of military intelligence, near Tel Aviv. This retaliation followed Israel’s strikes on 300 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon within 24 hours.
Israeli Airstrikes Respond to Rocket Attack From Lebanon
A strong explosion occurred in Tel Aviv’s Gush Dan area today, caused by a rocket from Lebanon. The Israeli army confirmed the rocket fell in an open area without activating warning sirens. Hezbollah claimed to have targeted Israeli military positions with rocket fire. Around 30 rockets were launched from southern Lebanon towards northern Israel, escalating regional tensions significantly. The airstrikes also targeted areas near Shmistar and Tyre.
Israeli Airstrikes Hit Hezbollah Stronghold in Beirut Following Evacuation Warning
Israeli airstrikes targeted Hezbollah’s southern Beirut stronghold after residents were told to evacuate. The strikes followed accusations that Hezbollah stored millions in cash and gold beneath Al-Sahel Hospital. The IDF stressed it would not target the hospital itself, as the conflict is with Hezbollah, not the Lebanese people. These airstrikes are part of Israel’s efforts to dismantle Hezbollah’s financial infrastructure in the region.
Intense Israeli Airstrikes Target Southern Lebanon
Israeli warplanes targeted southern Lebanon today with extensive airstrikes, hitting towns including Haboush, Arab Salim, and Aita al-Chaab. The strikes demolished houses and caused injuries at a cafe in Kharayeb. Heavy fighting occurred as Hezbollah engaged Israeli forces trying to advance on Aita al-Chaab. Hezbollah also reported targeting Israeli troops near border towns, underscoring ongoing military operations that have persisted since late September.
Hezbollah Targets Israeli Site “2222” With Rocket Fire
Hezbollah announced on Monday it targeted Israeli site “2222” in Mount Sheikh with rocket fire, striking several Israeli forces. The group conducted multiple attacks on Israeli troops near Markaba and targeted the Kela outpost and Maalot settlement. Previous strikes involved artillery against soldiers evacuating at Kfarkala, highlighting ongoing hostilities.
Four Injured in Rocket Attack on Neot Mordechai, Galilee
At least four people were injured when rockets from Lebanon targeted Neot Mordechai in Galilee. Ziv Medical Center in Safed treated two individuals in moderate condition. The Israeli military reported that around 10 rockets were fired at the area. This attack is part of rising tensions, with military operations increasing along the northern border and southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah Confirms Capture of Fighters by Israel, Refuses Negotiations
Hezbollah confirmed on October 22, 2024, that several of its members were captured by Israel, though the exact number remains unspecified. During a press conference in Beirut, Hezbollah official Mohammad Afif declared the group’s full responsibility for a recent attack on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s residence in Caesarea. Afif emphasized that Hezbollah will not engage in negotiations while hostilities continue, holding Israel accountable for the safety of the captured fighters. He also addressed the Israeli strikes on the Al-Qard Al-Hassan Foundation, assuring depositors that precautions had been taken to meet financial obligations.
Berri Suggests Lebanon Could Elect President After Ceasefire
Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri informed US envoy Amos Hochstein that Lebanon could elect a president during the first week of the ceasefire, sources told Sky News Arabia. Berri emphasized that the newly elected president would oversee the implementation of UN Resolution 1701 and ensure a permanent ceasefire. The visit revealed that the US had stepped back from proposing changes to Resolution 1701, as any amendments would require approval from Russia, China, and the US. Hochstein’s visit is seen as a prelude to the US elections, offering no immediate solution.
Hezbollah Diversifies Funding Sources Beyond Iran Due to Sanctions
Hezbollah receives funding through various methods, with Iran as its primary patron, providing hundreds of thousands of dollars annually and weapons. However, due to U.S. sanctions on Iran, Hezbollah has diversified its funding sources. The organization successfully achieves this through money laundering, arms trading, drug trafficking, and tobacco operations, ensuring its financial stability and operational capability despite external pressures and restrictions.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
U.S. and Israel Finalize $5.2 Billion Air Defense Aid
The U.S. and Israel have finalized $5.2 billion in emergency aid to strengthen Israel’s air defense systems in anticipation of a possible Iranian response. This package will enhance the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and the developing Magan Or laser system. Total U.S. military support amounts to approximately $8.7 billion, including funds for essential military purchases. As tensions escalate, Iran warns of severe retaliation against any Israeli strikes on its military sites, heightening regional conflict.
Hamas Establishes Leadership Committee After Yahya Sinwar’s Recent Death
Hamas announced it will not appoint a successor to Yahya Sinwar, who was killed by Israeli fire last week. Instead, a five-member leadership committee formed in August will manage the movement until internal elections, expected in March. The committee includes Khalil Hayya, Zahir Jabareen, and Khalid Meshaal, overseeing strategic decisions and negotiations with Israel. Hamas has agreed to consult on establishing a civilian committee to govern Gaza, pending approval from President Mahmoud Abbas and Fatah’s leadership.
Israel Pursues Hostage Deals with Hamas Following Sinwar’s Death
Israel is pursuing two parallel efforts to secure hostage releases from Hamas after Yahya Sinwar’s death. Mossad Director David Barnea advocates for a comprehensive deal to end the Gaza war and halt the IDF’s campaign against Hezbollah while releasing all Israeli hostages. In a separate proposal, the security cabinet discussed offering Hamas a two-week ceasefire in exchange for the release of five hostages. Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar is reviewing this plan with Egyptian officials.
Israeli Prisoner Dies Under Mysterious Circumstances in Northern Gaza
A senior Hamas source confirmed the recent death of an Israeli female hostage in northern Gaza under mysterious circumstances. An investigation is ongoing, and Hamas will not disclose her name for security reasons. The exact location of her death is unclear, but Israeli forces have conducted military operations in Jabalia camp, resulting in significant casualties. Israeli estimates indicate that 107 Israelis are still held in Gaza, with over 50 believed to be alive.
Israeli Shelling in Gaza Kills 26 Palestinians, Mostly in Jabalia
Eighteen Palestinians were killed on Monday in Israeli shelling targeting Rafah and Jabalia, with reports indicating five fatalities in Rafah. An Israeli drone also attacked a tent sheltering displaced persons west of Khan Younis, causing casualties. Additionally, the Israeli military struck near the UNRWA-run Kereizm school in Jabalia, resulting in seven deaths. Overall, 26 Palestinians have been killed since dawn today, with 18 fatalities occurring in Jabalia.
Hamas Shoots Civilians Fleeing Jabaliya as IDF Provides Aid
Hamas terrorists are shooting civilians trying to evacuate Jabaliya in northern Gaza, according to an IDF paramedic. Cpl. Shai Gilboa treated a Palestinian woman injured while fleeing, as Hamas prevents civilians from following Israeli evacuation orders. Despite the violence, the IDF continues to provide medical assistance and evacuate civilians while maintaining military pressure on Hamas forces in the area. The IDF remains committed to protecting civilians amid the ongoing conflict.
Israeli Entrepreneurs Offer Rewards for Gaza Hostage Release
Israeli entrepreneurs are offering financial rewards to secure the release of Gaza hostages. Daniel Birnbaum, former SodaStream CEO, offered $100,000 for help in freeing Israeli hostages. He received about 100 calls, some serious, and passed them to Israeli authorities. Real estate developer David Hager raised $400,000, aiming for $10 million. Despite these efforts, experts believe the chances of success are slim, given the complexities of negotiations with Hamas.
Retired General Calls for End to Israel’s Gaza War, Citing High Costs
Former Israeli National Security Council Chief Giora Eiland urged an immediate end to Israel’s war in Gaza, stating that continued fighting would yield no strategic benefits. In an article published in Yedioth Ahronoth, Eiland outlined four reasons for stopping the war: the rising human toll, including deaths of soldiers and hostages; the economic burden, with the war costing $132.3 million daily; immense pressure on soldiers and their families; and growing diplomatic isolation. He emphasized the need to focus solely on securing the release of detainees in any deal with Hamas, warning that prolonging the conflict would lead to more suffering and unrest.
IDF Intercepts Drones Over the Mediterranean
In the largest drone attack in weeks, the IDF intercepted five drones over the Mediterranean using helicopters and fighter jets. The drones were successfully neutralized before entering Israeli airspace. Following Hezbollah’s drone swarm launch from Lebanon, departures from Ben Gurion Airport were briefly halted but resumed within 15 minutes.
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★ IRAN
Iran Claims Arab Neighbors Will Not Allow Israeli Attacks
Iran’s Foreign Minister stated that neighboring Arab countries will not allow Israel to use their territory or airspace for attacks on Iran. During a press conference in Kuwait, Abbas Araghchi confirmed that all of Iran’s neighbors have assured they will not permit their land or airspace to be used against the Islamic Republic. These remarks were made during Araghchi’s Middle East tour, which focused on regional security issues. Iran seeks to reaffirm its neighbors’ commitment to preventing any military escalation in the region, promoting regional security amid rising tensions.
Biden Administration Faces Scrutiny Over Iran-Tied Appointees
The Biden administration faces criticism following a leak of U.S. intelligence on Israel’s plans to strike Iran. An investigation is underway, but concerns have emerged over officials with potential ties to Iran. Robert Malley, Biden’s Iran envoy, remains suspended amid allegations of mishandling classified information. Meanwhile, Pentagon official Ariane Tabatabai’s involvement with Tehran’s Iran Experts Initiative has raised further alarm. Critics argue these appointments compromise national security and call for the removal of such individuals from sensitive roles. The investigation continues, with no conclusive link to Iran yet established.
Israel Prepares Response to Iran, May Target Officials’ Homes
Israel’s response plan to Iran’s missile attack is ready, possibly targeting Iranian officials’ homes, military, and oil sites. This retaliation follows an attempted drone assassination on Prime Minister Netanyahu, allegedly by Hezbollah. U.S. President Biden opposes attacks on nuclear or oil facilities, while Iran warns of serious regional and international consequences if Israel proceeds. The Israeli plan remains highly classified, with limited officials aware of its full details.
Iran Warns US Against Supporting Israeli Attack on Iran
Iran’s ambassador to the UN, Saeed Iravani, warned that the U.S. would be held responsible for assisting Israel in any attack on Iran. In a letter to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and Security Council President Pascale Christine Baeriswyl, Iravani criticized U.S. President’s admission of knowing details about a potential Israeli strike. The letter emphasized that U.S. technical and military support for Israel could make it complicit in such aggression. Iran urged the UN to condemn the U.S. actions and demand an end to Israeli actions in Gaza and Lebanon.
Iranian Army Ready For Harsh Retaliation Against Israeli Attacks
Iranian Army Chief General Abdolrahim Mousavi declared that Iran’s armed forces are fully prepared to deliver a “harsh” response to Israel should Israel retaliate for Iran’s ballistic missile attack earlier this month. Mousavi provided a briefing to members of the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee in Parliament, confirming Iran’s readiness to respond to any Israeli aggression. Tasnim News Agency, affiliated with the Revolutionary Guard, quoted Committee spokesperson Ibrahim Rezai, revealing that the meeting addressed the army’s role in “Operation Truthful Promise 2,” where Iran launched around 200 ballistic missiles at Israel on October 1st.
Iran Files Complaint Over Israeli Threats To Nuclear Sites
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baghaei announced that Iran sent a formal letter to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) expressing concerns about potential Israeli attacks on its nuclear facilities. Iran’s complaint to the IAEA underscores its apprehensions regarding the possibility of military strikes on its critical infrastructure.
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★ IRAQ
Preliminary Results Show Barzani’s Party Leading in Kurdistan Regional Elections
Iraq’s Independent High Electoral Commission announced preliminary results, showing Barzani’s Democratic Party leading in Kurdistan elections with significant support. The results cover 99.63% of 7,044 polling stations, allowing parties and candidates to legally challenge final results per election law. Commission Chairman Judge Omar Ahmed Mohammed confirmed the elections were free, fair, and conducted securely, ensuring transparency throughout the process. Voter turnout in the Kurdistan Region reached 72%, with over 2 million total votes cast during the election. Barzani’s Kurdistan Democratic Party secured over 800,000 votes, while the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan gained more than 400,000 votes.
Iraqi Drone Strike Targets Israeli Forces in Occupied Golan
The Islamic Resistance of Iraq announced a drone strike targeting a military position in the occupied Golan Heights on October 21. This operation supports resistance efforts in Gaza and Lebanon, responding to Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians, including women, children, and the elderly. The Iraqi resistance emphasized that this drone strike is part of ongoing efforts against Israeli occupation and in defense of regional stability. The group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Palestine and Lebanon, vowing to continue such actions as long as Israeli military aggression persists. This marks a significant escalation in regional resistance efforts.
Iraqi Islamic Resistance Attacks Vital Target in Jordan Valley with Drones
The Iraqi Islamic Resistance announced a drone attack targeting a vital site in the occupied Jordan Valley early this morning. In a statement, the resistance group said the attack supported Palestinians and Lebanese, responding to Israeli massacres of civilians. The group vowed to continue escalating attacks on enemy strongholds, showing increasing resolve in their ongoing military campaign. For months, Iraqi factions have launched drone and missile strikes on Israel, supporting resistance forces in Gaza and Lebanon. The latest attack on October 17 targeted two key Israeli sites in Eilat and southern occupied territories, intensifying the conflict.
Iraq Reviews Military Readiness Amid Israeli Aggression Concerns
For the second time in two weeks, Iraq assessed military readiness due to escalating regional instability and possible Israeli aggression. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani personally monitors the situation after Israeli soldiers were killed and wounded by a drone from Iraq. The drone attack targeted Israeli forces in the occupied Golan Heights, as Iraqi Islamic Resistance factions continued daily drone and missile strikes. Al-Sudani made a surprise visit to Baghdad’s Joint Operations Command, reviewing security operations and stressing updated strategies to address new threats. He emphasized teamwork and continuous field presence for all security forces involved.
Iraqi Forces Kill ISIS “Wali of Iraq” and Senior Leaders
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced on October 22, 2024, that the “Wali of Iraq,” a senior leader of ISIS, was killed alongside eight other top leaders during a counterterrorism operation in the Hamrin Mountains. The operation, coordinated by Iraq’s Counter-Terrorism and National Security Service, targeted ISIS hideouts. This follows a series of recent airstrikes, including the killing of Shahada Alawi Saleh Aliwi Al-Bajari, also known as Abu Issa, a prominent ISIS figure. Despite losing control of its territories in 2017, ISIS remains active, particularly in northern and western Iraq.
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★ SYRIA
US Military Base in Syria Hit by Missile Strike
A U.S. military base in Syria was hit by a missile strike, with no immediate U.S. response or responsibility claimed. The attack happened as U.S. forces from the Koniko Gas Field base shelled two villages in Deir ez-Zor Governorate. The Syrian government has repeatedly accused U.S. forces and militants of looting Syria’s valuable oil reserves in the region. Since Daesh’s defeat in December 2017, Syrian officials claim U.S. forces have continued oil extraction and violent activities. Damascus has vowed to end the U.S. military presence in northeastern Syria, viewing it as a major regional threat.
Nearly 20,000 Refugees Arrive in Northeastern Syria from Lebanon
The Autonomous Administration in northeastern Syria, affiliated with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), announced the arrival of approximately 19,941 people from Lebanon. Some are reuniting with family, while others are housed in shelters provided by the Autonomous Administration. The administration has expressed its readiness to continue receiving refugees fleeing Lebanon, offering support through its institutions.
Israeli Airstrike Kills Hezbollah Official in Damascus Attack
Israeli airstrikes in Damascus on October 21, 2024, killed two individuals and injured three others, targeting a vehicle near the Golden Mazzeh Hotel. The confirmed fatality was Hezbollah’s money transfer chief, Abu Salah, with reports also suggesting that Islamic Jihad leader Ziad Al-Nakhala may have been among the victims, though this remains unconfirmed. The attack, attributed to Israel, targeted a four-wheel vehicle in a high-security area.
Assad Regime Restricts Hezbollah and Iran’s Movement in Daraa
Syrian regime forces have issued a directive prohibiting Lebanese refugees and cars with Lebanese plates from areas west of Daraa Governorate, near the ceasefire line with Israel. The circular covers multiple villages in the Yarmouk Basin region, known for Hezbollah and Iranian militia presence. Russian forces recently conducted inspections in the area to confirm it is free of Hezbollah and Iranian elements, possibly informing Israel. The Assad regime’s actions are seen as efforts to avoid Israeli strikes in light of increased tensions following Israeli incursions and operations in the region.
Fire at Homs Oil Refinery Extinguished, Cause Under Investigation
Firefighting teams and civil defense forces successfully extinguished a fire that broke out in the gas section of an oil refinery in Homs, Syria, according to state media. The refinery’s director, Akram Al-Ali, stated that the fire caused only material damage, and cooling operations are ongoing. Al-Ali also noted that the cause of the fire remains unknown, with investigations underway to determine the source. The incident marks another challenge for Syria’s vital infrastructure.
Iranian-Backed Groups Relocate in Al-Bukamal Amid Israeli Airstrike Fears
Iranian-backed groups in Al-Bukamal have begun repositioning, minimizing their public presence to avoid attacks. These groups reduced visibility in eastern Deir ez-Zor near the Syrian-Iraqi border. They evacuated foreign and local fighters from security compounds, leaving only a few local guards to maintain a limited presence. Patrols and checkpoints overseen by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and the Fatemiyoun group have significantly decreased across the region. Weapons were relocated to storage sites between Al-Bukamal and Deir ez-Zor, preventing destruction from possible Israeli airstrikes. Militia leaders relocated to Iraq for remote command, continuing recruitment without military training, amid fears of targeted strikes.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Saudi Crown Prince Welcomes Jordanian King and Crown Prince in Riyadh
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcomed Jordan’s King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Hussein in Riyadh. They were greeted at King Khalid International Airport by key Saudi officials, including Riyadh Deputy Governor Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman and Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. Accompanying the Jordanian King were Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and the chiefs of staff for both the King and Crown Prince.
Qatar’s Amir Meets Italian Leaders to Strengthen Bilateral Relations
Qatar’s Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, met with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome. They discussed strengthening bilateral relations and addressing international issues, particularly the Gaza conflict. The Amir emphasized enhancing cooperation in the economy, investment, energy, and defense. They exchanged views on regional developments concerning Gaza, the occupied Palestinian territories, and Lebanon. The strong ties between Qatar and Italy include significant trade partnerships, especially in natural gas and infrastructure projects.
China’s Oil Imports from Saudi Arabia Increased Last Month
China’s oil imports from Saudi Arabia increased from 5.3 million tons to 7.43 million tons last month, according to customs data. In contrast, imports from Russia and Malaysia declined, with Malaysian imports dropping from a record 7.5 million tons in August. Other sources like Oman and the U.S. also saw increased oil imports. However, imports from Iraq and Brazil significantly decreased, reflecting changing dynamics in China’s crude oil sourcing strategy.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkish Opposition Questions Israeli Territorial Ambitions Despite “Promised Land” Claims
Turkiye’s opposition doubts Israel has territorial ambitions in Turkiye, despite ongoing controversy over alleged “Promised Land” plans. President Erdoğan’s warnings about Israeli ambitions have sparked a heated debate in Turkiye’s political and public spheres. Opposition leader Özgür Özel questioned the logic of claiming Israel would target a country like Turkiye with military aggression. In response, the Turkish government held a closed parliamentary session with secret briefings from defense and foreign ministers. Despite this, opposition leaders remain unconvinced, accusing Erdoğan of deflecting attention from Turkiye’s worsening economic issues by focusing on Israel.
Turkiye and Ukraine Stress Continued Efforts to End War with Russia
Turkiye and Ukraine emphasized the need to continue efforts for a ceasefire, ending the Russia-Ukraine war based on international law. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reaffirmed Turkiye’s support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence, including Crimea. He stressed ongoing negotiations aimed at stopping the Russia-Ukraine war, with Turkiye prepared to support all peace initiatives. During a joint press conference, Fidan and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha discussed hopes for the Black Sea becoming a cooperation hub. Fidan expressed optimism that regional cooperation could soon benefit all countries bordering the Black Sea, fostering peace efforts.
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan Confirms Death of FETÖ Leader, Vows Continued Fight
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan confirmed FETÖ leader Fetullah Gülen’s death, stressing that Turkiye’s fight against the organization will continue relentlessly. Fidan stated, “Our intelligence confirms the FETÖ leader’s death, but this will not lead to complacency or relaxation in our efforts.” Fidan reiterated that despite the leader’s death, Turkiye remains committed to eliminating FETÖ’s influence and ensuring national security. The ongoing efforts aim to prevent any resurgence of the organization’s activities.
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★ YEMEN
Saudi Hints at Withdrawal from Yemen Peace Agreement
Saudi Arabia signaled possible withdrawal from the UN’s Yemen peace roadmap, aligning with U.S. efforts to escalate tensions. Saudi military expert Ahmed Al-Fifi, linked to intelligence, reposted the UN peace plan, labeling it “the last chance,” signaling withdrawal intentions. Despite years of stalling on the peace roadmap, this development suggests Saudi Arabia is reconsidering its commitment amid growing pressures. The move coincides with U.S.-led military activities toward Yemen’s vital port city of Hodeidah, a key target in ongoing tensions. Saudi Arabia’s maneuvers point toward ending the ceasefire, as regional tensions over Yemen continue to rise under international scrutiny.
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★ EGYPT
Egypt Offered Hamas Leader Safe Exit From Gaza, Rejected
At the onset of the conflict, Egypt proposed a haven to Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in exchange for releasing hostages, but he refused, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal on Monday. Sinwar remains hopeful that the war he ignited will provoke Iran and Hezbollah into launching a regional war against Israel. The Hamas leader, who was later assassinated, sent a defiant message to Arab mediators shortly after the conflict began, stating, “I am not under siege, I am on Palestinian soil.” The conflict has resulted in over 42,000 deaths in Gaza, according to Hamas-controlled Palestinian health authorities.
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