Top Headlines:
★ Israel Pushes for Hostage Release In Exchange For Ceasefire Talks
★ IDF Launches Ground Incursions in Syria
★ Israeli Cabinet Approves Iran Strike One Day Before Yom Kippur
★ Gulf Countries Fear Iranian Retaliation, Lobby US to Stop Israeli Strike
★ Speculation Over Iran’s Semnan Earthquake and Possible Nuclear Test
==========
★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
Israel Demands Prisoner Swap In Exchange For Ceasefire In Lebanon
Mossad Chief David Barnea communicated these conditions to CIA Director Bill Burns, aiming to pressure Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar through Hezbollah and Iran. Meanwhile, the White House continues to push for a ceasefire. Netanyahu, Biden, and Harris discussed these plans in a high-level call lasting 30 to 50 minutes. The U.S. aims to use Israel’s offensive to weaken Hezbollah and install a new Lebanese president. This strategy differs from earlier ceasefire calls, with U.S. officials believing new leadership may stabilize Lebanon.
Wafiq Safa Killed or Not Killed, Lebanese Celebrated The Assassination Attempt
Despite high Beirut airstrike casualties and Safa’s survival, many Lebanese quietly celebrate Hezbollah’s misfortune. They believe the group’s dominance is waning, and its eventual collapse is inevitable. Another assassination attempt eliminated two top commanders of Hezbollah. Ahmad Moustafa al-Haj Ali, the commander of Hezbollah’s Houla Front, and Mohammad Ali Hamdan, the head of Hezbollah’s anti-tank units in Meiss El Jabal. Both were responsible for missile attacks on northern Israeli communities. Overnight, the IAF, guided by IDF intelligence, conducted airstrikes on multiple weapons storage sites in Beirut’s Dahieh area and other Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon. Limited Lebanese documentation exists of these strikes.
Israeli Airstrikes and Hezbollah Missile Attacks Intensify
Israel continues its military operations against Hezbollah, targeting key areas like Maroun al-Ras and Naqoura while facing rocket barrages from southern Lebanon. Hezbollah responded by launching 170 missiles toward northern Israel, injuring four people in Galilee, Haifa, and Acre. Hezbollah also claimed to have targeted Israeli forces in Mays al-Jabal and Zevulon. Israeli forces, using drones, eliminated Hezbollah cells and destroyed crucial infrastructure. Airstrikes on a weapons factory and intelligence center in Beirut further weakened Hezbollah’s military presence. Hezbollah’s rockets killed an Israeli couple in Kiryat Shmona, escalating tensions as Israel advances on six Lebanese fronts. In ongoing battles, an Israeli officer was also killed, and another soldier was injured. Hezbollah claimed to have destroyed an Israeli tank with guided missiles during an attempted incursion into Ras Al-Naqoura, southern Lebanon. The attack reportedly left the tank’s crew dead or injured. Israeli airstrikes targeted Hezbollah’s infrastructure, claiming to have destroyed over 500 operational sites.
IDF Destroys Soleimani Statue in Maroun al-Ras, Raises Flag
The IDF destroyed Soleimani’s statue in Maroun al-Ras park, a key Hezbollah stronghold. Previously, the statue symbolized Soleimani’s defiance, his finger pointed towards Israel. Israeli forces raised their flag over the ruins of the park, replacing the Palestinian flag once displayed beside the statue. This act reflects a shifting balance of power in the Middle East, underscoring the symbolic dismantling of Soleimani’s legacy and Hezbollah’s influence in the region.
IDF Troops Not Informed of Hezbollah’s Armor-Piercing Ammunition
Israeli soldiers were not informed that Hezbollah fighters were equipped with armor-piercing ammunition before a battle in southern Lebanon, according to an IDF debriefing. The 98th Paratroopers Division later discovered that Hezbollah had used bullets capable of penetrating ceramic vests. Commanders expressed frustration, stating that they could have adjusted their tactics had they known earlier. The incident highlights a recurring issue of intelligence not being passed to frontline units, putting soldiers at increased risk.
Hezbollah’s Hudhud Drone Video Reveals Strategic Israeli Sites
Hezbollah broadcast drone footage on Wednesday, showing sensitive sites in Haifa, including military bases, industrial areas, tunnels, hospitals, and key infrastructure such as the University of Haifa and an oil refinery. The footage, captured by Hezbollah’s Hudhud drone, highlights the group’s readiness to strike these locations in retaliation for Israeli actions in Lebanon.
British-American Journalist Deported, Two Syrians Arrested for Alleged Spying
A dual-nationality journalist, Yehoshua Tartakovsky, holding a British passport and born in the U.S., was arrested in Beirut’s southern suburb after attempting to reach Hezbollah offices. Tartakovsky, who claimed to support resistance in Lebanon and Palestine and opposes the Israeli government, was found with an additional Israeli passport. His swift deportation was likely due to his American birth and British passport, according to sources. Shortly after, the Lebanese army arrested two Syrians suspected of spying for Israel, reportedly recruited via social media. The Syrians allegedly documented Israeli airstrikes and monitored search and rescue operations. Lebanese security has detained dozens on suspicion of collaboration with Israel in recent years.
Berri: No Ceasefire Progress, Criticizes U.S. Role
Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri stated there has been no progress toward a ceasefire in Lebanon, despite efforts by Hezbollah and other Lebanese leaders. In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Berri expressed frustration over the lack of U.S. action to stop the aggression, contrasting it with support from France and the UK. Berri, who has long mediated between Hezbollah and Western powers, reiterated his commitment to implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701. He hopes an upcoming Security Council session will address the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.
==========
★ SYRIA
IDF Conducts Ground Incursions Into Syria, Strikes Hezbollah and Iranian Targets
Israeli tanks entered the Syrian Golan Heights, beginning construction of the 70-kilometer Sufa 53 military road with trenches and observation points. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov warned that expanding Israeli operations could have “catastrophic consequences” for the Middle East but avoided speculating on Russia’s response. Assad claimed Israel violated the 1974 agreement by building east of the Bravo Line. Israeli forces continued operations in Syria, killing Adham Jaghout, the Hezbollah Golan Unit leader. This unit focuses on cross-border attacks on Israeli interests. Early on October 10, Israeli airstrikes hit weapons warehouses and arms shipments used by Iranian militias in Hama and Homs, causing significant damage, including at a Homs car factory. Explosions were also reported in Damascus, targeting Iranian militia sites. ASSad media downplayed the strikes, but local sources confirmed they hit Iranian assets. Israel has launched 106 strikes in Syria during 2024, destroying 192 military-related targets, including weapons depots and vehicles.
==========
★ IRAN
Israeli Cabinet Votes on Iran Strike Day Before Yom Kippur
Israel’s cabinet met Thursday night to decide on a response to Iran’s October 1 missile barrage. The cabinet vote, whose results have not been made public, took place one day before Yom Kippur. Defense Minister Gallant stated that Israel’s retaliation would be ‘deadly, precise, and surprising.’ The cabinet was expected to authorize Gallant and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to decide the timing and nature of the strike in response to Iran’s assault.
Iranian Militias Renew Shelling of U.S. Bases in Eastern Syria
Iranian Revolutionary Guard-backed militias targeted a U.S. military base at the Conoco gas field in Deir ez-Zor, eastern Syria, with five rockets on Tuesday night. U.S. forces stationed at the base shot down a drone attempting to strike the site. Most of the rockets landed near the base, causing no casualties. In response, U.S. forces shelled militia positions in Al-Tabiyah and Khasham. Additionally, Iranian-backed militias launched five mortar shells at a U.S. base in Al-Shaddadi, northeastern Syria, without causing injuries. U.S. reconnaissance planes were active over the region during the exchanges.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Tours Gulf, Warns Against Aiding Israel
Formal statements from Iranian, Saudi, and Qatari sources reported positive affirmations to continue improving bilateral relations. The Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited with his Saudi counterpart Minister Faisal bin Farhan and also held talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. While in Qatar, Araghchi stated that Tehran is prepared for any scenario and noted indirect communications with the U.S. During both visits to the Arab nations Tehran warned against allowing Israel to use their airspace or bases for strikes against Iran. The Iranian representative stated that any Arab cooperation would be unacceptable and may prompt a response. Araghchi previously held secret meetings with Gulf states, where the Gulf countries expressed their intent to remain neutral in the Iranian-Israeli conflict. Tehran has warned Israel not to test its resolve.
Gulf Countries Lobby US to Prevent Israeli Strike on Iran
Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, are urging the US to prevent Israel from striking Iran’s oil facilities, fearing Tehran’s proxies could retaliate against their own infrastructure. They have also refused to allow Israel to use their airspace for such attacks. This comes after Iran’s ballistic missile strike and escalating tensions, raising concerns of a broader conflict that could involve the United States.
Quds Force Commander Qaani Suffers Heart Attack During Interrogation
Esmail Qaani, commander of Iran’s Quds Force, is under investigation for alleged intelligence ties with Israel. Reports suggest that Qaani suffered a heart attack during his interrogation and was hospitalized. His chief of staff is also accused of collaborating with Israel. Iranian officials deny these claims, asserting Qaani remains active in his duties. Internal disputes within the Quds Force have intensified since Qasem Soleimani’s assassination, raising pressure on Qaani. Restructuring of the Quds Force and potential honors from Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei may follow, if Qaani is still alive.
Speculation Over Iran’s Semnan Earthquake and Possible Nuclear Test
Following a 4.4-magnitude earthquake in Iran’s Semnan province, speculation arose linking the tremor to Tehran’s first underground nuclear test. The earthquake, with an epicenter near Aradan, occurred 12 kilometers below ground. Social media users theorized it could be a covert nuclear test, possibly as a deterrent against Israeli attacks. The earthquake, which occurred at 10:45 pm on Saturday and was felt in eastern Tehran, has prompted social media users to theorize that it could be a covert test, potentially as a deterrent against Israeli attacks. Iran’s NorNews, the primary outlet of the National Security Council, dismissed these claims as rumors, reiterating that nuclear testing contradicts the country’s official stance. Despite this, concerns persist.
Iran Denies UK Security Chief’s Accusations, Calls Claims Baseless
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, dismissed British accusations and urged focusing efforts on Israel’s aggression, not Iran. The accusations came after MI5 chief Ken McCallum claimed that 20 lethal plots, allegedly Iran-backed, were foiled in Britain since 2022. Iran continues to challenge claims of its involvement in international plots, urging dialogue and cooperation rather than accusations without proof.
========
★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Hamas Drone Shot Down Over Southern Israel
A Hamas drone launched from Gaza was intercepted over southern Israel on Thursday by Israeli air defense systems, with no casualties or damage reported. This marks the first drone infiltration into Israeli airspace since June 19. On Wednesday, Israeli defenses also intercepted a rocket from northern Gaza. Israel’s ongoing ground operation in Gaza, following the October 7 attacks, aims to dismantle Hamas’ military power and secure the release of more than 250 hostages.
Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar Renews Suicide Bombing Campaign in Israel
Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar has ordered the renewal of suicide bombings in Israel after taking leadership. Sinwar, considered a “megalomaniac” by officials, issued the order ahead of a failed August bombing attempt in Tel Aviv. Despite reservations from some Hamas officials, none opposed Sinwar’s command. Suicide bombings, once common during the Second Intifada, have been rare due to Israel’s increased security measures. Sinwar has also resumed contacts with mediators regarding ceasefire and hostage negotiations.
Al-Qassam Ambushes Israeli Infantry Unit in Jabalia, Inflicts Heavy Losses
Al-Qassam Brigades ambushed an Israeli infantry unit of 12 vehicles east of Jabalia Camp, targeting a soldier-filled truck with explosives and hitting a jeep with a “Tandem” rocket. They engaged the remaining soldiers at close range, causing heavy casualties. Two Merkava tanks were also struck with Tandem and Shawaaz explosives. In a separate clash, Al-Qassam fighters inflicted additional losses on a special Israeli force west of Jabalia.
Israeli Forces Target Militants in Gaza and West Bank Operations
Israeli airstrikes on Gaza killed 64 people, including 50 in northern Gaza, while Palestinian resistance inflicted losses on Israeli forces. Over the past five days, 120 Palestinians have died due to these attacks, according to Al Jazeera. The Israeli army conducted a precise airstrike in Deir Al-Balah, Gaza, targeting a militant command center while minimizing civilian casualties. However, the Palestinian Red Crescent reported 28 dead and 54 injured when a separate Israeli airstrike hit a school sheltering displaced civilians nearby. Simultaneously, Israeli undercover forces carried out a raid in Nablus, killing five terror suspects, including Issam al-Salaj, leader of Al-Aqsa Martyr’s Brigade. Supported by the Yamam counter-terror unit, Israel Defense Forces, Shin Bet, and Border Police, the raid was part of ongoing efforts to neutralize terror threats in the West Bank. Israeli authorities confirmed that both operations reflect a broader strategy to counter terrorism and reinforce security in the region.
Israel To Receive More German Arms
Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced that Germany will provide additional arms shipments to Israel, responding to opposition claims of insufficient support. He emphasized that government decisions have already been made to ensure these shipments occur soon. Opposition leader Friedrich Merz criticized the government for delaying export licenses for ammunition and tank parts, accusing them of withholding necessary support. Scholz countered, stating that accusations of insufficient aid were incorrect and that additional arms would be delivered shortly.
Israel’s Budget Deficit Rises to 8.5% Due to Military Conflicts
Israel’s budget deficit reached $2.3 billion in September, driven by military spending against Hamas and Hezbollah. The deficit now stands at 8.5% of GDP, surpassing the 8.3% recorded in August. War expenses have exceeded $27.1 billion. The Bank of Israel projects the deficit will fall to 7.5% by year-end. Tax revenues increased by 9.6% in September as Israel continues military operations on multiple fronts.
===========
★ YEMEN
Yemen Requests U.S. Support to End Truce and Defeat Houthis
Yemen’s government has approached U.S. authorities to discuss ending the truce with the Houthis and resuming full-scale military operations to defeat the group. According to government sources, efforts to eliminate the Houthi militia through political and negotiation channels have proven ineffective. The sources emphasized that only complete military liberation of Yemen will bring a lasting solution, marking the renewed call for U.S. backing in these efforts.
Yemeni Official: Israel Killed 80 Houthis in Syrian Airstrike
Fayyadh Al-Numan, a Yemeni official, claimed on X that an October 1 Israeli airstrike in Syria’s Sweida region killed 25 Houthis. He added that 55 more Houthi militia members were injured in the strike, which targeted a Hezbollah camp. The Iranian-backed Houthis were reportedly receiving training at the camp. Al-Numan confirmed the attack in a public statement, attributing it to Israel. However, no mainstream media outlets have independently confirmed Houthi involvement in the strikes, as most reports focus on Hezbollah and Iranian targets.
Ship Hit by Projectile Off Yemen’s Hodeidah Coast
A ship was struck by an unknown projectile off the coast of Hodeidah, Yemen, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The incident, which occurred 70 nautical miles southwest of Hodeidah, caused damage but no injuries or fire were reported. The ship continues its journey to the next port. Since November, Houthi forces have launched around 200 missile and drone attacks on ships in the Red Sea, alleging connections to Israel. These attacks have disrupted maritime routes, prompting shipping companies to divert vessels around Africa.
=========
★ IRAQ
Iraqi Resistance Drone Strikes Target Occupied Golan Heights Again
Iraqi resistance factions allied with Iran conducted two new drone strikes on the Golan Heights on Wednesday, continuing their attacks. Last Friday, a similar drone strike by the Iraqi resistance hit the Golan, resulting in two Israeli soldiers’ deaths and 24 injuries, as confirmed by the Israeli military. The Islamic Resistance group in Iraq, consisting of six main factions, escalates operations while simultaneously evacuating their headquarters. On Thursday, October 10, the Iraqi resistance announced targeting a vital site in northern Israel. The Israeli military confirmed intercepting a drone near Eilat over the Red Sea.
Israeli Channel Lists Iraq’s Sistani as Assassination Target
Israeli Channel 14 aired an image of Iraq’s top Shia cleric, Ali Sistani, as a potential Israeli assassination target, alongside figures like Abdul Malik al-Houthi, Naeem Qassem, Yahya Sinwar, and Ayatollah Khamenei. The report discussed Israel’s possible retaliation to a recent Iranian missile strike. Iraq’s government condemned the inclusion of Sistani, urging international bodies to reject threats to religious leaders and to respect the sentiments of Muslims worldwide.
US Howitzer Transfer to Peshmerga Fuels Tensions in Iraq
The Pentagon’s delivery of 24 M119 howitzers to Kurdish Peshmerga forces has ignited public outcry in Iraq. Critics argue the deal undermines national security and risks escalating tensions in contested regions like Kirkuk and Nineveh. Former parliament speaker Mohammed Al-Halbousi condemned the transfer, claiming it violates Iraq’s constitution. Meanwhile, Iraq’s Ministry of Defense affirmed its agreement to the deal, linking it to prior administrations. Supporters of the transfer, including Kurdish leaders, view it as essential to Peshmerga forces. The controversy reflects ongoing tensions between Baghdad and Erbil over military and political influence.
Iraq Signs $5 Billion Strategic Funding Deals With Six Nations
Iraq has finalized strategic funding agreements totaling $5 billion with six countries, aimed at boosting infrastructure and economic development. The Sovereign Guarantees Initiative, led by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani’s office, will offer government-backed financial protection to investors. These guarantees are designed to mitigate risks such as payment delays or economic instability, encouraging both foreign and local investors to support Iraq’s development projects. This move aligns with Iraq’s broader efforts to foster growth and enhance investor confidence.
Iraq Exports Over 65 Million Barrels of Oil to South Korea in Eight Months
The Korea National Oil Corporation announced on Thursday that it imported more than 65 million barrels of Iraqi crude oil over the past eight months. According to the company’s report, Saudi Arabia ranked first in oil exports to South Korea from January to August, with 224.708 million barrels, followed by the United States with 120.889 million barrels, and the UAE in third place with 94.157 million barrels.
=========
★ GULF NATIONS
Saudi Arabia Expands Global Influence Through Strategic Investments and Trade Deals
Saudi Arabia is making significant international advances through key investments and trade partnerships. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) recently acquired a 40% stake in Selfridges, a luxury retailer with 18 stores across the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands. This strategic partnership, aligned with Saudi Arabia’s global investment strategy, aims to strengthen Selfridges’ brand and boost its growth. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has also become Egypt’s top copper export destination, accounting for 65% of exports from January to July 2024. The kingdom imported $348.6 million in copper, marking a 96% increase from the previous year. This rapid trade growth underscores Saudi Arabia’s increasing importance as a key trading partner for Egypt. Additionally, Saudi Arabia is set to sign $2 billion agreements with Pakistan during an official visit led by Investment Minister Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih. The deals focus on strengthening economic relations and increasing Saudi investments in Pakistan.
Mohammed bin Salman Will Not Attend BRICS Summit in Russia
The Kremlin announced Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will not attend the BRICS summit in Russia, scheduled for October 22-24. Saudi Arabia will instead be represented by its Foreign Minister. The summit will see the participation of 24 world leaders, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Invitations were sent to 38 countries, with 32 confirming participation. Most BRICS leaders are expected to attend the summit in Kazan, Russia.
============
★ EGYPT
IMF Postpones Payment of $8B Loan, Citing Review Delays
The IMF has delayed the payment of the next tranche of Egypt’s $8 billion loan due to a postponed review. The review, initially set for November, has been pushed to after the IMF’s annual meetings, temporarily halting further disbursements. Egypt secured the loan in March to address inflation and stabilize its economy, raising prices on subsidized goods and devaluing its currency to manage a $10.3 billion budget deficit. Egypt previously received $820 million after the third review in June, with the next payment pending completion of the delayed review.
Egypt’s Non-Oil Exports Increase by 15.5% in 2024
Egypt’s non-oil exports rose to $9.7 billion in the second quarter of 2024, a 15.5% increase from $8.4 billion in 2023. Non-oil imports also grew 10.7%, reaching $17.6 billion compared to $15.9 billion last year. The Egyptian Cabinet’s report analyzed trade balances with key partners and highlighted export opportunities in targeted markets.
Egypt and Romania Strengthen Energy Security Through Oil and Gas Partnership
Egypt and Romania co-chaired the fourth session of the Egypt-Romania Joint Committee for Economic, Scientific, and Technical Cooperation, focusing on the oil and gas sector. This meeting, led by Egypt’s Minister of Planning Dr. Rania Al-Mashat and Romania’s Minister of Economy Ștefan Radu Oprea, is the first since 2019. Both nations aim to enhance energy security and strengthen economic ties through collaboration in the energy sector.
Sisi Visits Eritrea, Eyeing Somalia and Sending Messages to Ethiopia
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi arrived in Asmara today, where he was welcomed by Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki. The visit focuses on strengthening bilateral relations and discussing regional stability efforts in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea to promote development and serve the interests of the region’s populations.
Morocco’s Deserts Flooding, First Time In Decades
Recent heavy rains in Morocco and Algeria have caused flooding in the Sahara desert for the first time in decades. Various regions were submerged due to the unexpected downpours, highlighting the unusual weather conditions in this typically arid area. The flooding has affected parts of both countries, marking a rare and significant meteorological event in the Sahara.
=========
★ TURKIYE
Erdogan Warns Israel Could Target Turkiye After Palestine and Lebanon Conflicts
Turkiye’s President Erdogan condemned Israel’s military actions in Lebanon, urging the UN to intervene immediately. Speaking at the Turkish parliament, Erdogan warned that Israel’s “terror and genocide” could extend beyond Lebanon, potentially threatening Turkiye. He emphasized that Israel’s pursuit of a “promised land” poses a regional threat, which could impact Turkish sovereignty. Erdogan accused Israel of promoting occupation, terror, and instability in Gaza and Lebanon, pushing the region toward greater conflict. He called for urgent international action to stop Israel’s operations before they escalate further.
Turkiye to Ease Inflation Accounting Rules to Encourage Corporate Investments
Turkiye plans to ease inflation accounting rules by exempting capital expenditures, aiming to boost corporate investment, according to officials. Current rules negatively affect companies’ financial results, increasing tax liabilities and discouraging investments. The government believes this change will promote corporate spending and attract investments in key sectors. The amendments are expected to be submitted to parliament soon, supporting economic growth.
China Launches Trade Dispute with Turkiye Over Electric Vehicle Tariffs
China has filed a trade dispute with Turkiye at the World Trade Organization (WTO) over tariffs on electric vehicle imports. China claims Turkiye’s 40% additional tariff on Chinese vehicles is discriminatory and protective, urging Ankara to comply with WTO regulations. The dispute stems from Turkiye’s June decision to impose the tariff and stricter regulations on hybrid vehicles, including Chinese imports. Turkiye has not yet responded to China’s request for clarification, marking a new phase in global trade tensions as both countries defend their economic interests.
Germany Approves €336 Million Arms Deal with Turkiye Amid Fighter Jet Dispute
Germany has approved a €336 million arms deal with Turkiye, despite Berlin’s resistance to Turkiye acquiring Eurofighter jets, according to Der Spiegel. The deal includes 100 guided missiles from MBDA and 28 SeaHake torpedoes from ThyssenKrupp for Turkiye’s navy. Additionally, German companies will provide €79 million worth of submarine upgrades and spare parts for Turkish frigates and corvettes. This approval comes despite prior reductions in arms exports to Turkiye, signaling continued NATO-related cooperation. However, German security sources have dismissed reports of the deal as rumors.
Turkish Treasury Minister Visits Qatar and Kuwait to Boost Investments
Turkish Treasury Minister Mehmet Şimşek is touring Qatar and Kuwait to strengthen investment opportunities in Turkiye. In Qatar, Şimşek met with the Prime Minister and the CEO of the Qatar Investment Authority, focusing on Turkiye’s “Invest in Turkiye” initiative to attract foreign investments. He will hold similar discussions in Kuwait with the Finance Minister and the CEO of the Kuwait Investment Authority. This Gulf tour highlights Turkiye’s efforts to secure investments, enhancing economic growth and reinforcing international investment prospects.
Albania to Receive Kamikaze Drones from Turkiye, Strengthening Defense
Turkiye will provide Albania with a significant number of kamikaze drones, enhancing defense cooperation between the two nations, confirmed Prime Minister Rama. These drones, gifted by Turkiye, will bolster Albania’s military strength and defensive capabilities. Kamikaze drones hover over targets before detonating on impact, offering precision strikes. While the specific details were not disclosed, Albania emphasized that the drones are for defense, not offense. Amid military upgrades following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Albania has also acquired Turkish Bayraktar drones. Both Albania and Turkiye are NATO members.
===========
On behalf of the Early Phoenix team, we extend our heartfelt prayers for peace and tranquility across the region. Wishing you a peaceful Yom Kippur.
