THE EARLY PHOENIX 

Middle East Region’s Report 09-09-24

★ ISRAEL & PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES 

1. Jordanian Gunman Kills Three, Israel Closes Border Crossings

A Jordanian gunman, Abd Salam al-Zoubi, crossed into Israel at the Allenby Bridge, killing three in a commercial area. Israeli forces neutralized the attacker, but despite medical efforts, the victims were pronounced dead at the scene. This incident has sparked concerns over Jordan’s role, with Israeli officials urging action and suggesting U.S. involvement. In response, Israel closed all border crossings with Jordan. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to build a wall along the border and included anti-smuggling measures in the 2025 budget. This is the first such attack since the Gaza conflict began on October 7.

2. Hamas Demand Stalls Gaza Ceasefire, U.S. Doubts Resolution

Hamas introduced a new demand, complicating Gaza ceasefire and prisoner exchange negotiations. The group now seeks the release of Palestinian civilians, shifting away from prior agreements focused on prisoners. A senior U.S. official called this demand “poison in the honey,” as it undermined a near-final deal. U.S., Egyptian, and Qatari mediators are working to prevent further delays. The White House doubts the war will end before Biden’s term, with U.S. officials frustrated ahead of November elections. Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar appears uninterested in a deal, complicating efforts further. Israel’s demand for military control over the Philadelphi Corridor also hinders progress, despite extensive mediation efforts.

3. IDF Kills Hamas Commander Raef Omar Salman Abu Shab in Gaza Strike

An Israel Air Force airstrike killed Hamas commander Raef Omar Salman Abu Shab in Gaza. Shab led the Rocket Launching Platoon responsible for attacks on southern Israel. IDF operations in Rafah and central Gaza also targeted terrorists, uncovered weapons, and eliminated threats. Over the past day, the IDF struck about 25 Hamas targets, including terrorist squads and military infrastructure.

4. Turkish-American Activist Aysenur Eygi Killed by Israeli Forces

Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-year-old Turkish-American activist, was killed by Israeli forces while protesting illegal settlement expansion in Beita, near Nablus in the West Bank. An autopsy confirmed she was shot in the head by an Israeli sniper. Eygi had been a dedicated advocate for Palestinian rights, recently graduating from the University of Washington. Her death has sparked outrage and demands for accountability from local and international communities. In Seattle, hundreds gathered to honor her memory, chanting slogans and calling for justice in a brief protest.

5. Palestinian Vehicle Hits Police Car in West Bank Incident

A Palestinian vehicle deliberately collided with an Israeli police car at the Eli gas station in the West Bank on Saturday, according to the Israel Defense Forces. No injuries were reported, and the driver was arrested by IDF troops. This incident follows a series of recent attacks in the West Bank, including a twin car bombing claimed by Hamas. 

6. Israel Collects Intelligence from Gaza Detainees Under Torture

Israel reportedly turned Gaza detainees at the Sde Teiman base into key intelligence sources, leading to the identification of Hamas leaders. Some detainees provided information that resulted in targeted strikes and the discovery of kidnapped bodies. Palestinian sources claim detainees were subjected to severe torture, forcing them to disclose sensitive intelligence. In some instances, confessions came from civilians with no ties to resistance groups, leading to unintended casualties. Reports allege that over 37 prisoners died under torture, raising accusations of serious human rights violations by Israeli forces.

7. Woman Arrested for Throwing Sand at Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir

Israeli authorities arrested 27-year-old Noah Goldenberg for throwing wet sand at National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir during his tour of a Tel Aviv beach. Goldenberg, who denies the charge, remains in custody while the court considers her case. Her family and activist groups have expressed concern over her detention, citing her chronic illness. The incident sparked anger among beachgoers, some of whom shouted “murderer” at Ben-Gvir. Critics accuse the minister of undermining efforts for a Gaza ceasefire and failing to address settler violence in the West Bank.

8. Israeli Airstrike Kills Gaza Rescue Official

An Israeli airstrike in Jabalia killed Mohammad Mursi, Deputy Director of Civil Defense, and four family members. His death raises the number of Civil Defense fatalities by Israeli fire to 83 since October 7. Israeli forces demolished homes in Gaza City’s Zeitoun neighborhood, five kilometers from Jabalia. Medical teams couldn’t reach residents trapped in destroyed homes. Locals reported ongoing explosions, tank movements, and drones, expressing fear for those trapped in the area. 

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Israel Prepares Ground War; Netanyahu Vows to Crush Hezbollah

★ ISRAEL – HEZBOLLAH WAR 

9. Israel Prepares Ground War as Hezbollah Threatens With Rockets

Israeli forces are preparing a ground war against Hezbollah, which reportedly has over 150,000 rockets, precision-guided missiles, and drones. Israel remains on high alert, closely monitoring Hezbollah’s activities and potential cross-border aggression. Shin Bet intelligence revealed that Hezbollah fired 1,307 rockets at northern Israel in August 2024, totaling 8,000 since October 2023.  Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed to “crush Hezbollah” to secure northern Israel and return settlers. 

10. Diplomatic Warnings and Rising Tensions Amid Israel-Hezbollah Conflict

Israel notified Lebanon, the U.S., and the EU of its readiness for conflict, according to a European ambassador. Finance Minister Smotrich urged a short war that would cripple Lebanon for 30 years. The U.S. warned Israel against an unlimited response if Hezbollah harms civilians. Lebanese officials are concerned, while experts say Hezbollah serves Iran’s agenda, not Lebanon’s. Israeli MK Nissim Fatouri stated that Israel might target Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah if necessary. Last week, over 50 Israeli airstrikes hit Hezbollah targets, including 15 rocket launchers near the Litani River. Fires from Hezbollah’s attacks destroyed 138,000 acres in northern Israel. 

11. Rocket Exchanges Escalate, No Casualties Reported in Northern Israel

The IDF struck 20 rocket launchers, killing three Hezbollah militants, whom Lebanese sources identified as Amal movement medics, on Friday September 6. In retaliation, Hezbollah fired 50 rockets at northern Israel overnight, with 20 hitting Kiryat Shmona, causing property damage but no injuries. Later, 30 rockets were launched at the Upper Galilee, most intercepted or landing in open areas. Several Hezbollah drones crossed into the Upper Galilee, but no injuries were reported on Saturday morning. Hezbollah drones also damaged Israeli surveillance equipment at Malikiya. 

12. Israeli Airstrikes Target Key Hezbollah Sites, Hezbollah Retaliates

The Israeli Air Force struck Hezbollah military structures in Aitaroun, Maroun El Ras, Yaroun, Ayta al-Shaab, Sathrun, Srifa, Kharbat Salem, and Rihan. Israel intercepted a suspicious aerial target and struck Hezbollah infrastructure in Al Rihan. Later, Hezbollah fired an air-to-ground missile at an Israeli UAV over Beqaa, forcing its withdrawal. Additional airstrikes targeted Kunin and Qabrikha, with 15 raids between Sathrun and Srifa. In response, Hezbollah launched Katyusha rockets at Israel’s Nerya base in the Upper Galilee, operated by Golani forces. No further retaliation was reported after the morning exchange, on Sunday. 

13. Biden Administration Wants Israel to Swap Territories with Hezbollah 

Israeli media revealed that Amos Hochstein, U.S. President Biden’s adviser, proposed a land swap during a May meeting with Israeli officials. The plan, came to public attention again on September 7 during Hezbollah’s 50 rocket attacks, includes a phased Israel-Lebanon border agreement. It aims to reduce conflict by allowing displaced residents to return and strengthening Lebanon’s army. Israel’s key condition is Hezbollah’s full military withdrawal 10 kilometers from the border, which Hezbollah rejects. The proposal also includes recognizing “Point B1” near Rosh Hanikra as Lebanese with UN oversight and a land swap involving Kibbutz Misgav Am. 

14. Special Detention Cell for Banker Accused in Lebanon’s Economic Collapse

Riad Salameh, former Central Bank Governor of Lebanon, is currently held in a special detention cell with privileges such as air conditioning and phone access. He is widely blamed by the public for Lebanon’s financial collapse, often referred to as the “black box” of the country’s economic crisis. On Monday, he will appear before Judge Bilal Halawi in Beirut, facing charges of embezzlement, money laundering, and illicit enrichment. Detained since last Tuesday, Salameh will be escorted to the Palace of Justice, where the court may either issue an arrest warrant or release him on a residence permit with a substantial financial guarantee. Meanwhile, the French judiciary has been investigating him and his family since 2021 for transferring millions to European banks. An international arrest warrant remains unenforced by Lebanon.

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Iran Sends Ballistics To Russia,  Plots to Kill Jews in Europe,  and Meddles in U.S. Elections

★ IRAN 

15. Iran Plots to Target Jews in Europe, French Authorities Reveal

Iran is behind a plot to kill Jews in France and Germany, according to French authorities. A Paris court charged Abdelkrim S., 34, and his partner Sabrina B., 33, with conspiring with Iranian intelligence to carry out terrorist attacks. The case, known as “Marco Polo,” signals a resurgence of Iranian state-sponsored terrorism in Europe, as reported by France’s General Directorate for Internal Security. The accused allegedly planned attacks on Israeli citizens and businesses, aiming to spread fear among Jews and Iran’s political opposition in Europe.

16. Iran Transfers Ballistic Missiles to Russia for Ukraine Conflict

CIA Director William Burns, speaking in London, expressed concern over the strengthening ties between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, which he said endanger Ukraine and Western allies in the Middle East. Iran has transferred short-range ballistic missiles to Russia for use in its war against Ukraine, according to anonymous sources confirming U.S. intelligence findings. While the details of the transfers remain undisclosed, the sources highlighted the ongoing threat posed by this growing defense partnership.

17. Iranian Ex-MP Criticizes Leaders Over Missile Sales to Russia

Former Iranian MP Heshmatollah Falhatpisheh criticized Iran’s leadership for selling missiles to Russia, calling it “the dirtiest example of Russophilia.” He argued that Iran is becoming a pawn in the Ukraine war, exacerbating the country’s economic and diplomatic struggles. Falhatpisheh, a critic of Iran’s policies, warned that this would deepen Iran’s involvement in global conflicts. Ahmad Bakhshayesh Ardestani, another Iranian lawmaker, defended the arms sales as necessary for bartering essential goods like soybeans and wheat. Iran denies its involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine.

18. Iranian President Calls for Relocating Capital to Southern Coast

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for moving Iran’s capital from Tehran to the southern regions near the Gulf and the Sea of Oman, citing development challenges and the need for improved competitiveness. Pezeshkian highlighted Tehran’s water shortages and inefficiencies caused by transferring resources from the south to the capital. The idea of relocating the capital has been considered multiple times since 2004, with discussions emphasizing earthquake risks and other issues. However, no final decision has been made, and previous attempts have stalled despite parliamentary approvals.

19. Iran Increases Election Meddling While Dismissing U.S. Accusations

Iranian-linked hackers are ramping up their attempts to interfere with the 2024 U.S. presidential election, according to cybersecurity reports. Targeting African American communities and veterans, the hackers spread disinformation aimed at eroding trust in U.S. institutions. Tehran Times, Iran’s state-run publication, dismissed these claims, calling U.S. accusations hypocritical. However, intelligence experts continue to warn that Iran is working alongside Russia and China to undermine U.S. democracy through increasingly aggressive cyberattacks and disinformation efforts, seeking to weaken the country’s stability and political unity.

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★ YEMEN’s Houthis 

20. Iran Directly Supports Houthis in Red Sea Shipping Attacks

Iran is directly involved in Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping vessels. Houthis lack the technical expertise to execute such precise operations, particularly targeting Chinese and Russian ships. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard controls naval and missile forces, managing air unit operations. Spy ships like Bahshad and Saviz, equipped with naval radars, monitor ship movements up to 100 kilometers. Despite an electronic attack on Bahshad, smaller vessels continue espionage. Fast boats, disguised as fishermen or smugglers, support Houthi operations. This coordinated effort aims to disrupt maritime navigation, aligning with Tehran’s broader strategic goals.

21. Houthis Claim Downing of Eighth US MQ-9 Reaper Drone

Media networks in the Middle East are going viral with unsubstantiated news that the Houthis have downed a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone over Marib on Sunday.  The US military told The Associated Press it was aware of the claim but has “received no reports” of American military drones being downed over Yemen. Russian News Agency claimed that this is the eighth US MQ-9 drone downed by Houthi forces over Yemeni airspace since escalation.

22. U.S. Airstrikes Hit Houthi Positions in Central Yemen

U.S. airstrikes targeted Houthi positions in Ibb province, central Yemen, today, hitting the Miatem area east of Ibb city. Houthi media reported the strikes but did not confirm any casualties or specify the exact targets of the airstrikes. CENTCOM did not announce the operation. 

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U.S. Denies Withdrawal, Iran Encourages Militias to Act

★ IRAQ

23. U.S. Denies Withdrawal, Iraqi Minister Confirms 2026 Exit Plan

Iraq’s Joint Operations Command held a security meeting on September 7, 2024, focusing on security forces’ performance and targeting ISIS remnants. The U.S. Department of Defense denied any plans for troop withdrawal, contradicting reports suggesting an agreement. No timeline has been established, and joint U.S.-Iraqi operations continue amid ongoing ISIS threats. The Iraqi Defense Minister, in an exclusive TV interview on al Hadath, stated the opposite. He announced U.S. troops would fully withdraw by 2026 in two phases, with the first ending in 2026. He stressed Iraq’s military readiness, plans to acquire advanced weaponry, and efforts to rebuild infrastructure while addressing military corruption.

24. Iranian Ambassador Encourages Militias to Act After Haniyeh Assassination

Iran’s ambassador to Baghdad, Mohammad Kazem Al-Sadiq, confirmed that Tehran plans to avenge the assassination of Hamas political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Tehran on July 31. Al-Sadiq also told Iraqi militias that they are free to move, implying they have the liberty to launch attacks in response to Haniyeh’s killing. His statement suggests that these factions are encouraged to escalate military actions independently, without waiting for direct orders from Iran.

25. Iraqi PM Al-Sudani champions reforms, unity, and anti-corruption efforts

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani highlighted his administration’s efforts in combating corruption, launching infrastructure projects, and creating jobs since taking office. He emphasized economic reform, improving energy production, and strengthening Iraq’s cooperation with the international coalition to combat ISIS. Al-Sudani called for political unity to ensure Iraq’s stability and prosperity, benefiting all Iraqis.

26. Uprising Planned to Overthrow Iran-Aligned Government in Iraq

A political source revealed plans for a large uprising to overthrow Iraq’s Iran-aligned government. Leaders of the Tishreen movement are discussing whether to restart protests in Baghdad or across provinces. Internal political disagreements, including from the State of Law Coalition, increase pressure on Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani. The possibility of mass protests, similar to those that removed former Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi, is high. Opposition parties are expected to join the Tishreen movement in a large demonstration.

27. Over $1 Billion in Central Bank Sales to Corrupt Party Banks

Baghdad, Iraq—The Central Bank of Iraq has sold more than $1.28 billion to banks linked to corrupt political parties in the past five days. According to sources, the bank averaged daily sales of $257 million, up from $1.11 billion the previous week. The highest sales occurred on Sunday, reaching $279 million, while Wednesday saw the lowest at $255 million. External transfer sales last week hit $1.28 billion, accounting for a 96% increase compared to cash sales, which totaled $48 million. The surge in sales has raised concerns over the growing influence of corrupt parties in the financial system.

28. Iranian Kurdish Opposition Parties Relocated to Single Camp in Sulaymaniyah

Informed sources reported that Iranian Kurdish opposition parties in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region were moved to a single camp following a security agreement. The National Security Advisor, Qasim al-Araji, mediated the relocation in response to Iran’s request. Opposition party headquarters in Zarqoiz and Penjwin near the Iran border were evacuated, with parties such as Komala and the Iranian Kurdistan Democratic Party transferred to Surdash camp in Sulaymaniyah. Heavy weapons were surrendered, with only light arms allowed for protection. Reports of an Iranian opposition politician’s deportation from Sulaymaniyah were denied by local authorities.

29. Iraq Imports From Iran Surge to $4.5 Billion

Iraq imported $4.5 billion worth of goods from Iran in five months, a 21% increase. The annual trade volume between the two countries is about $10 billion. This year’s imports include liquid gas, iron, petrochemicals, building materials, and food, totaling $4.8 billion. Exports to Iran mainly consist of scrap metal, aluminum, and oil products. Iraq aims to sustain these trade levels by year’s end. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is preparing to visit Baghdad this week, aiming to sign multiple memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with Iraq to strengthen economic and political ties​

30. Iraq Aims To Boost Oil Production To Six Million Barrels

Iraq plans to increase its oil production to six million barrels per day by 2028, aiming to boost revenue. This plan is part of a larger project to enhance revenue generation. Bassim Mohammed Khader from the Oil Ministry revealed an ambitious strategy for production support and maintenance. The initiative seeks to meet export requirements and achieve self-sufficiency in gas for energy and industrial use by 2028.

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ISIS Resurgence, Assad’s Funding Confirmed, Hezbollah 124 Smuggling Routes

★ SYRIA 

31. ISIS Prison Break in Hasaka, Escapes, and Global Attacks Prevented

The Syrian Democratic Forces foiled an ISIS prison break at Ghweiran detention center in Hasaka on September 8, killing one militant. Following the uprising, the prisoners were immediately relocated to more secure facilities to prevent further security breaches or attempts. The US-led coalition moved about 90 ISIS detainees from Raqqa to Hasaka following an escape attempt by five prisoners. Despite recapturing two escapees, others found assistance from local smugglers to evade capture and reach the desert. This transfer followed CENTCOM’s arrest of ISIS leader Khaled Ahmed Al-Dandal for aiding fighters’ escape from Rojava prisons. Five ISIS women from Morocco and Russia escaped from the camp despite tight security. Canadian authorities arrested 20-year-old Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, who was radicalized by ISIS, for plotting attacks on Jews in New York. In August 2024, Austrian authorities prevented an ISIS-inspired attack at a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna, arresting two suspects planning mass casualties.

32. ISIS Funding by Assad Regime Results in $364 Million Judgment

The Assad regime has been proven in court to have funded ISIS for years, directly leading to the deaths of two American soldiers in Iraq. Spc. Byron Fouty and Staff Sgt. Alex Jimenez were captured and executed by Damascus-backed terrorists in 2007. A U.S. court awarded $364 million in damages to the soldiers’ families, citing Syria’s material support to the Islamic State of Iraq. This ruling confirms Assad’s involvement in supporting terrorist groups responsible for attacks against U.S. service members. The decision, under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act, may allow the U.S. to seize Syrian assets to compensate the families.

33. Hezbollah Controls 124 Smuggling Routes Between Lebanon And Syria

Lebanese media reports that Hezbollah manages 124 illegal smuggling crossings between Lebanon and Syria. The group oversees operations in Homs, granting privileges to local smugglers in exchange for payments and participation in Hezbollah’s security units. Ongoing clashes over smuggling profits highlight the instability in the region as Hezbollah secures financial inflows.

34. HTS Signals Support For Turkiye-Assad Reconciliation Through Prisoner Release

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) handed over two Syrian intelligence officers and Hezbollah members to Turkish intelligence on Saturday, a strategic move that reveals more than just an exchange. The handover, ordered by Turkiye, signals HTS’s acceptance of Ankara’s push to normalize relations with the Assad regime. As Turkiye continues its negotiations with Damascus to restore ties, this gesture demonstrates both HTS’s compliance with Turkish directives and its indirect support for the reconciliation. The move also marks a calculated signal to Assad that HTS, previously at odds with the regime, is now aligning with Turkiye’s shifting diplomatic strategy in the region.

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Israel Temporary Presence Possible With Egypt’s Boosting Economy

★ EGYPT 

35. Cairo May Approve Temporary Israeli Presence With Guarantees

Cairo may allow a temporary Israeli presence in the Philadelphi Corridor if the U.S. provides specific guarantees. Egypt insists on Israel’s withdrawal during the first phase but may accept a temporary presence. The deal requires U.S. assurances that Israel’s presence will not be permanent. Egypt also demands guarantees preventing Israeli operations in the corridor or Rafah, even if talks fail.

36. Egypt and China Launch $300 Million Tech Fund

Egypt and China have signed five memorandums to boost cooperation in ICT. A $300 million tech fund will be established. This fund includes setting up a data center, four training centers, and labs. Over 3,250 specialists will receive training and capacity-building. Additionally, three fiber optic cable manufacturing plants and three outsourcing centers will be created. These projects will generate 800 jobs in electronic circuit design and related fields.

37. Egypt To Purchase 20 LNG Shipments For Winter Energy

Egypt plans to purchase 20 liquefied natural gas shipments to meet increased winter energy demands amid reduced domestic gas production. This is the first time since 2018 that Egypt is sourcing LNG for winter needs. The country has recently shifted from being a gas exporter to a net importer. Egypt bought over 30 LNG shipments this summer to handle rising demand. 

38. Egypt, Cyprus Explore Pipeline Linking Aphrodite Gas Field

Egypt and Cyprus are considering a 90-kilometer undersea pipeline to connect the Aphrodite field with Egypt’s Zohr facilities. This project aims to integrate Cypriot gas into Egypt’s national network. The pipeline would leverage the available capacity of the Zohr field’s infrastructure. This comes as Zohr’s output has decreased from 3.2 billion cubic feet daily in 2020 to 1.6 billion cubic feet now.

NORTH AFRICA 

★ Sudan 

39. Burhan Rejects WHO Peacekeeping, No End in Sight for Sudan War

Sudan’s war has damaged over 70% of its healthcare infrastructure, leading to outbreaks of cholera, measles, and other diseases. Ten states lack epidemic monitoring, and floods in northern Sudan have worsened conditions. The WHO Director-General visited to assess healthcare needs and coordinate support. WHO also recommended deploying peacekeeping forces to protect civilians from alleged war crimes. However, Sudanese leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan rejected this, viewing it as interference, despite WHO’s emphasis on the escalating humanitarian crisis.

40. Sudanese Leader Secures Key Economic, Defense Agreements with China

Sudanese Sovereignty Council leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan pursued support from China during his meeting with President Xi Jinping, resulting in agreements on economic, energy, and defense cooperation. Sudan also signed a strategic deal with China’s Poly Group during the China-Africa Cooperation Summit. 

41. Darfur Governor Accuses Rapid Support Forces of Looting in El Fasher

Darfur Governor Minni Arko Minawi accused the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of looting citizens’ property in El Fasher, Dar Al Salam market. He claimed the RSF, led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, terrorized civilians with gunfire and committed crimes on an ethnic basis. Minawi warned of further RSF attacks but assured local forces are preparing to defend the region. Since the conflict between Sudan’s army and RSF began in April, over ten million people have been displaced, with extensive destruction reported across the country.

★ ALEGRIA 

42. Abdelmadjid Tebboune Wins Election, Follows Bouteflika’s Leadership Path

Algeria’s President Abdelmadjid Tebboune was re-elected for a second term after receiving 94.65% of the votes, securing over 5.6 million votes. This represents approximately 22.9% of Algeria’s total population of 46.28 million, highlighting low voter participation. His closest opponent, Hassan Sharif Abdelali, garnered 3.17%, while Youssef Ouchich received 2.16%. Tebboune’s re-election follows a term focused on economic challenges, and he aims to continue his New Algeria initiative. His government faces inflation concerns, border tensions with Mali and Libya, and strained relations with Morocco and France.

★ Libya

43. Turkey’s Intelligence Chief Meets Libyan Officials to Discuss Stability

Turkey’s National Intelligence Chief, Ibrahim Kalin, met with Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh and other officials on Thursday. Kalin expressed hope for Ankara’s role in resolving conflicts in Libya through national agreements and de-escalation efforts. He emphasized Turkey’s commitment to Libya’s unity and stability. Kalin also met with Vice Presidents of the Presidential Council, Abdullah Al-Lafi and Musa Al-Koni, along with his deputy Jamaleddin Celik, to discuss recent political developments in Libya and ways to enhance stability and move the political process forward.

44. Militia Clashes in Libya Threaten Stability

Libyan authorities have issued arrest warrants for Mohammed Bahroun, leader of the Al-Far militia, and his aide following the assassination of UN-sanctioned trafficker Abdul Rahman Milad, also known as “Al-Bidja.” Milad, notorious for migrant abuse and oil smuggling, was killed in Tripoli’s Al-Sayad area on September 1. Bahroun’s involvement has raised tensions, with fears of clashes between his militia and Al-Bidja’s supporters. Libya continues to face significant challenges with human trafficking, impacting both regional stability and migration flows to Europe.

★ Morocco

45. Morocco Thwarts 45,000 Illegal Immigration Attempts in 2024

Morocco has successfully thwarted 45,015 illegal immigration attempts since the beginning of 2024, according to the Moroccan Ministry of Interior. In August alone, 11,323 attempts were blocked in the M’diq-Fnideq region near the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. Morocco also dismantled 177 smuggling networks and rescued 10,589 migrants at sea, providing humanitarian assistance. Rabat attributed the increasing migration pressure to instability in the Sahel region and called for coordinated international efforts to combat illegal immigration, particularly with Spain and West African countries.

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Turkiye Pushes for Islamic Bloc with Egypt and Assad Against Israel

★ TURKIYE 

46. Turkiye Pushes for Islamic Bloc with Egypt and Assad Against Israel

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged forming an Islamic solidarity bloc to counter what he described as “Israeli expansionist threats. “Erdogan emphasized that Turkiye’s efforts to improve relations with Egypt and Syria aim to establish this solidarity bloc. Speaking at a conference in Kocaeli, Erdogan highlighted the killing of Turkish-American activist Aisha Noor Ozgi by an Israeli sniper.He stated, “The Gaza conflict is not between Israel and Palestine, but between expansionist Zionism and Muslims defending their homeland.” Meanwhile, the AKP spokesperson  Omer Celik stated it is challenging to predict a timeline for a meeting between Erdogan and Assad. Celik explained the Syria plan involves three phases, beginning with intelligence handling security files, followed by foreign and defense minister meetings. He added, “We are still in the first phase, and no timeline has been set yet for the meetings.”Celik also mentioned that the United States appears displeased with the normalization process between Turkiye and Syria.

47. Turkiye Announces Killing of PKK Leader in Iran in Targeted Operation

The Turkish Intelligence Agency confirmed the death of Saliha Akbiyik, leader of the Iran branch of PKK, in Iraq. Akbiyik, who led PKK terror activities in Iran, was killed during a carefully planned operation in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq.Ankara emphasized that Akbiyik, pursued by Turkish intelligence, was neutralized at an optimal time, according to Turkish sources.Known as “Nozhiyan Amad,” she joined the PKK in 1993 and oversaw militants on the Iran-Iraq border.Akbiyik reportedly participated in armed terror operations in Qandil, Zab, Metina, and Makhmur regions of Iraq.

48. Turkiye Unveils Medium-Term Economic Program to Combat Inflation

Turkiye announced a new medium-term economic program from 2025 to 2027. The plan, introduced by Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz, aims to reduce inflation, increase investment, and ensure income equality. Inflation forecasts for 2024 were raised to 41.5%, while economic growth expectations were lowered. The program also focuses on strengthening the Turkish lira and reducing unemployment, which is expected to decline to 9.3% in 2024.

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Saudi AI Fund, Oil Price Cuts, Gulf Trade Growth Surges

★ GULF NATIONS 09-09-2024

49. Saudi Arabia Rejects Israel’s Troop Request, Blinken Remains Hopeful

Saudi Arabia, along with five Arab nations, rejected Israel’s request to maintain troops in the Philadelphi corridor. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken remains hopeful for a normalization deal between Saudi Arabia and Israel by January, contingent on a Gaza ceasefire. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu also rejected the two-state solution, calling it a “reward for terrorists.”

50. Saudi Aramco Lowers Oil Price Premium for Asia

Saudi Aramco has reduced its October oil price premium for Asia by 70 cents to $1.30 per barrel, responding to concerns about declining demand. Earlier projections anticipated an 85-cent cut. OPEC+ has delayed production increases, potentially limiting Saudi exports. Analysts predict rising inventories and a possible drop in Brent crude prices below $70 per barrel. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s non-oil economic activity grew by 4.9% year-on-year in Q2 2024, the highest growth rate in a year. This growth follows a 3.4% increase in Q1 2024 and previous rates of 4.2% and 3.2% in Q4 and Q3 2023, respectively. 

51. Saudi Arabia to Invest $40 Billion in AI Fund

Saudi Arabia plans to create a $40 billion fund for artificial intelligence. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is leading this initiative. Experts from the U.S. and Europe may be involved in the investment process. The Crown Prince emphasizes supporting AI companies to align with his ambitious vision. This investment is expected to attract AI firms to Saudi Arabia in the coming years.

52. Bawan Saudi Acquires Dubai-Based Petronash for $175 Million

Saudi Bawan Company signed a memorandum of understanding to acquire Petronash Holdings Limited for $175 million. Petronash, based in Dubai, supplies oil and gas equipment, technology, and services in the MENA region. Bawan will pay $80 million for 80% ownership of Petronash, with the remaining contingent on performance over three years. The acquisition supports Bawan’s oilfield services expansion and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, pending regulatory approvals.

53. Qatar’s $69.3B Reserves and $7.88B Trade Surplus with China

Qatar’s foreign reserves reached a record $69.3 billion in August, marking a 0.52% increase with a $350 million rise. The Central Bank reported reserves of 53.2 billion Qatari riyals, driven by a 0.94% boost in foreign Treasury securities, now totaling $38.5 billion, and gold holdings rising to $8.8 billion. In the first seven months of 2024, Qatar’s exports to China totaled approximately $10.8 billion, while imports from China amounted to around $2.92 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $7.88 billion. Qatar’s overall exports and imports for this period reached $54.78 billion and $20.22 billion, respectively.

54. UAE Tops $767.6M in Turkish Exports, Trade Targets $40B

In August, the UAE became the top destination for Turkish exports, reaching $767.6 million, a $415 million increase from last year. Turkey’s total exports grew by 2.4% to $22.1 billion, with gems and jewelry leading at $521.9 million. UAE-Turkey trade aims to reach $40 billion.

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To read separately: 

Israel-Hamas War Update: Jordanian Kills Three, WH Doubts War Ending Before Biden

Israel-Hezbollah War Update: Israel Prepares Ground War; Netanyahu Vows to Crush Hezbollah

Iran 09-09-2024: Iran Sends Ballistics To Russia, Plots to Kill Jews in Europe, and Meddles in U.S. Elections