THE EARLY PHOENIX
September 28 & 29, 2024
★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
Hassan Nasrallah’s Body Retrieved After Two Days
Two sources confirmed the retrieval of Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah’s body from the site of an Israeli airstrike in Beirut’s southern suburb. Videos on social media showed the moment Nasrallah’s body was lifted from a deep pit using a crane. The recovery took two days, with Hezbollah confirming his death. Sources suggest his death resulted from the impact of the explosion, not direct injury.
Israeli Strikes Target Hezbollah in Lebanon After Rocket Fire
Hezbollah launched eight ballistic missiles into Tiberias, Israel, while continuing operations against Israeli army targets. The Israeli Air Force intensified its strikes on Hezbollah-controlled regions in Lebanon, including the southern suburbs of Beirut, the south, and Bekaa Valley, targeting rocket launchers and military infrastructure.
IDF Strikes Target Hezbollah Leaders Qaouk and Yassin in Beirut
IDF airstrikes targeted Hezbollah officials Nabil Qaouk and Hassan Khalil Yassin in Beirut’s Lailaki and Shiyah neighborhoods. Yassin, a senior figure in Hezbollah’s intelligence network, played a direct role in planning attacks on Israeli targets. His death followed shortly after the confirmed killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. The Israeli military also struck missile production sites and smuggling routes near the Syrian border, continuing its broader campaign against Hezbollah’s launchers and infrastructure across Lebanon.
Israel Takes Over Beirut Airport Frequency, Blocks Iranian Plane Landing
According to sources in the Lebanese Ministry of Transportation, Israel seized the transmission frequency at Beirut’s international airport, demanding that an Iranian plane be prevented from landing. The message threatened the use of force if not obeyed. In response, Lebanese Transport Minister Ali Hamieh, associated with Hezbollah, ordered the Iranian aircraft not to land in Beirut.
Israel: Lebanese Projectile Sparks Fires in West Bank
An Israeli military statement confirmed that a projectile fired from Lebanon landed in the West Bank, causing fires. No injuries were reported, but fires erupted in the Mitzpe Hagit area. Israeli firefighters are actively working to extinguish the blaze. Earlier, alarms sounded in West Bank and Jerusalem suburbs, warning of an incoming attack from Lebanon.
Israel Launches Airstrikes on Baalbek and Nearby Villages
Israeli airstrikes targeted Baalbek and surrounding villages early Sunday, hitting factories, warehouses, farms, and residential areas. Strikes also hit Shat, Sarain, Ain al-Sawda, Na’naiyeh, Younin, and northern Beqaa. Drones remained overhead overnight. The Israeli military confirmed ongoing operations in Baalbek, Beqaa, and Mount Lebanon, aiming to weaken Hezbollah’s military capabilities.
Hezbollah Shura Council Selects Hashem Safieddine as New Leader
The Shura Council of Hezbollah chose Hashem Safieddine as the new Secretary-General, following the reported death of Hassan Nasrallah. Safieddine, previously the head of Hezbollah’s executive council and second-in-command, emerged as the leading candidate due to his close ties to Nasrallah—his cousin—and his familial connection to former Iranian Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani. Safieddine, who bears a strong resemblance in appearance and speech to Nasrallah, will assume leadership responsibilities within the organization.
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★ YEMEN
Houthis: We Targeted Three U.S. Warships in the Red Sea
After reaffirming that their military operations against Israel will continue, the Houthis claimed to have targeted three U.S. warships. The Iranian-backed Yemeni group announced on Friday that its forces carried out a “precision operation targeting three U.S. destroyers in the Red Sea.” The Houthis further stated that these ships were on their way to provide support to Israel.
Houthis Launch Missile Targeting Israeli PM’s Plane in Tel Aviv
A ballistic missile launched by Yemen’s Houthi forces targeted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plane as it landed at Ben Gurion Airport on September 28, 2024. The missile was intercepted by the IDF’s Arrow defense system “outside Israel’s borders.” Missile remnants fell near the community of Tzur Hadassah, causing slight damage but no injuries. The Houthis claimed this strike followed an IDF airstrike killing Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Beirut. They also took responsibility for a missile attack on Tel Aviv and a drone launch at Ashkelon a day prior. The Houthis have launched over 220 projectiles, including missiles and drones, towards Israel over 11 months, citing support for Palestinians in Gaza.
Abdul-Malik al-Houthi: “The Assassination of Hassan Nasrallah Will Not Go Unavenged”
Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi vowed that the assassination of Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah will not go unavenged. In a televised speech, al-Houthi emphasized that “these great sacrifices and immense injustice will not be forgotten,” adding that the Houthis are focusing on improving their capabilities following previous missile and drone strikes against Israel. The Israeli army responded announcing that the Houthis’ day is coming, signaling a likely Israeli retaliation for the group’s recent attacks.
Houthi Attack on ‘Eilat’ and Israeli Army Announcement
The Israeli army announced the interception of a drone over the Red Sea. According to the Israeli army, a “Saar 4.5” missile boat from the navy intercepted the drone during the night. The army confirmed that the drone was downed before reaching Israeli borders, and footage of the interception was released. The drone triggered air raid sirens in the city of Eilat and surrounding areas.
Israel Strikes Houthi Targets in Yemen, Killing Four
The Israeli Air Force carried out extensive airstrikes on Houthi targets in Hodeidah and Ras Issa, Yemen, on Sunday. Dozens of aircraft, including fighter jets and refueling planes, targeted military installations used by Houthis to transfer Iranian weapons, military supplies, and oil. According to Israeli and Yemeni sources, the strikes hit the Hodeidah and Ras Issa seaports, power plants in Al-Khali and Ras Katib, and an airfield. The attacks were in response to recent Houthi actions against Israel, with Israel accusing Houthis of acting under Iran’s direction and in cooperation with Iraqi militias. The Ministry of Health in Yemen reported at least four deaths and 29 injuries.
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★ SYRIA
U.S. Airstrikes Target Iran-Backed Militias in Syria
Iranian-backed Iraqi Shia militias attacked a U.S. base in the Conoco gas field, northeastern Syria. U.S. forces swiftly retaliated against Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada near the Albu Kamal Cross on the Syria-Iraq border. Al Jazeera reported 18 Iraqis killed, while militia sources claimed only nine Syrians were affected. Subsequent airstrikes in Deir ez-Zor and Al-Bukamal killed at least 15 militia members, including a commander. The strikes prompted regime troop deployments and clashes between SDF forces and Iran-backed militias. Iran’s expansive military presence, with 52 bases and 477 positions across Syria, supports routes strengthening Hezbollah and Tehran’s regional influence.
Massive Turkish Military Reinforcements to Northwestern Syria
The Turkish army sent substantial reinforcements to military positions across eastern Idlib and western Aleppo. A convoy of over 75 vehicles, including armored personnel carriers and trucks carrying military supplies, crossed from Turkey into Syria via Bab al-Hawa. This marks the second reinforcement within 24 hours, following another convoy of 15 vehicles that arrived on Thursday. Two months ago, a similar convoy of 28 trucks entered Idlib, signaling Turkey’s increased military focus in these zones.
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★ IRAN
Khamenei Declares Mourning, Vows Retaliation for Nasrallah’s Assassination
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei vowed revenge for the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah by Israeli forces, announcing five days of national mourning. Khamenei’s statements framed Nasrallah as a symbol of resistance and promised that his death would intensify actions against Israel. The escalation of Israeli strikes on Hezbollah heightened security measures within Iran, leading to Khamenei’s transfer to a secure location. He emphasized that Nasrallah’s foundational efforts would continue to inspire the resistance, serving as a rallying call for retaliatory action against Israel’s military operations and support for the Palestinian cause.
Quds Force Commander Pledges Support to Hezbollah
Iranian media reports that Esmail Qaani, commander of the Quds Force in the Revolutionary Guards, visited Hezbollah’s Tehran offices to offer condolences on Hassan Nasrallah’s death. During the visit, Qaani pledged special aid to Hezbollah, declaring, “We will stand by Hezbollah until the liberation of Jerusalem.” Despite the strong statement, Qaani was reportedly reserved in his remarks.
Iran Urges OIC Emergency Meeting Over Israel’s Military Actions
Tehran called for an urgent Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) meeting in response to Israel’s military actions. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Araqchi condemned Israel’s attacks on Beirut as war crimes, criticizing the United Nations Security Council for its inaction. The assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah was cited to demand solidarity among Islamic nations. OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha agreed to urgent consultations, advocating unified action. Iran reaffirmed its support for Palestinian rights, condemning Israeli assaults on Iranian diplomatic facilities and targeting of Hamas leaders as acts of terrorism.
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★ IRAQ
Iraqi Islamic Resistance Attacks “Eilat” with Drones
The Iraqi Islamic Resistance announced a drone attack targeting the Eilat area in what they refer to as “our occupied lands.” The group confirmed that operations would continue at an increasing pace to strike at enemy strongholds. Earlier, Israel’s Channel 12 reported the interception of two drones over the city of Nahariya in western Galilee. Early Saturday, the Iraqi Islamic Resistance declared two drone strikes on Israeli occupation targets.
U.S. Forces in Iraq: New Security Relationship Without Full Withdrawal
The United States has reached an agreement with Iraq to maintain U.S. forces in the country for at least two more years to enhance military cooperation against ISIS. In a joint statement, both nations outlined a timeline for the withdrawal of the international coalition forces by the end of September 2025. The focus will shift toward a bilateral security relationship aimed at supporting Iraqi forces and continuing efforts to pressure ISIS.
Iraq’s Imports From Turkiye Exceed One Billion Dollars Last Month
Iraq ranked fourth among the top importing countries from Turkey in August, according to the Turkish Statistical Institute. The report highlighted that Turkey’s total exports reached $22.048 billion, marking a 2.3% increase, while imports decreased by 10.7%, amounting to $27.04 billion, compared to August 2023.
Iraqi Factions Await Tehran’s Instructions to Support Hezbollah
Sources in Baghdad indicate that Iraqi factions are awaiting instructions from Tehran to support Lebanon’s Hezbollah following the confirmed assassination of its Secretary General, Hassan Nasrallah, in an Israeli strike on southern Beirut. In recent hours, Iraqi factions claimed responsibility for three rocket attacks on Israel, signaling that they “haven’t surrendered,” according to sources close to these groups. The Islamic Resistance issued three statements on Saturday, reporting that their first attack targeted Israeli soldiers in the Sadah area with artillery fire, followed by rocket strikes on the Sa’ar settlement and the Rosh Pina settlement.
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★ ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
Israeli Airstrikes Kill Palestinians as Hamas Conflict Escalates
Israeli airstrikes killed 11 Palestinians, including four at a school, while targeting Hamas fighters. Israel accuses Hamas of using civilian areas for military purposes, a claim Hamas denies. Israeli forces dismantled a 1-kilometer tunnel used by Hamas in central Gaza. The conflict, triggered by Hamas’ October 7 attack, has displaced most of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents. Fighting in Gaza has lessened as Israel shifted its military focus to Hezbollah in Lebanon following the assassination of its leader, Hassan Nasrallah
Hamas Terrorists Kill Female Gaza Aid Worker Over Refused Funds
Islam Hijazi, program director of the Heal Palestine organization, was killed near Khan Younis after refusing to hand over charity funds to Hamas operatives. Three masked Hamas terrorists reportedly fired over 90 bullets into Hijazi’s car as she was on her way to visit patients. The murder underscores Hamas’s practice of seizing donations intended for humanitarian efforts. Gaza residents condemned the incident, labeling Hamas a “mafia” exploiting civilians and aid entering the Strip.
Hamas Leader Sinwar Relocates After Nasrallah’s Assassination Fears
Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar changed his location in Gaza after the assassination of Hezbollah’s Hassan Nasrallah in Beirut. In response, Hamas updated its security protocols for Sinwar and other senior officials, reflecting heightened concerns following Israeli strikes targeting key figures. Sinwar’s move highlights growing fears among Hamas leadership.
Israel Declares Hamas Defeated in Gaza, Now a Guerrilla Group
The Israel Defense Forces assessed Hamas as militarily defeated in Gaza, now reduced to a guerrilla terror organization. Hamas’ command, control, and half of its operatives have been eliminated since October 7. While dismantling Hamas remains a key goal, retrieving hostages is the IDF’s top priority. Previously, Hamas had 30,000 fighters organized into brigades, battalions, and companies. The IDF systematically dismantled its missile arrays, snipers, engineering teams, and rocket capabilities.
Intense Clashes Between Palestinian Resistance and Israeli Forces in Balata and Jericho Camps
Clashes erupted between Palestinian resistance and Israeli forces in Balata Camp, Nablus, and Ain al-Sultan Camp, Jericho. Al-Quds Brigades’ Balata Battalion claimed they targeted Israeli forces with heavy gunfire, while armed confrontations occurred in Ain al-Sultan. Israeli forces continued their nightly raids across the West Bank, including Nablus, Qalqilya, Hebron, and Ramallah, amid escalating tensions with Palestinians.
Israel Targets Hamas Leader in Syria Airstrike
Israeli warplanes targeted and killed Hamas leader Ahmad Mohammad Fahd in Syria’s Quneitra province. Fahd, responsible for planning attacks from Syrian territory, including the Golan Heights, was reportedly preparing another imminent operation. The Israeli military confirmed the strike, emphasizing Fahd’s involvement in organizing terrorist activities against Israeli forces. This airstrike underscores escalating tensions between Israel and Hamas, extending into Syrian territory, where militants continue to plot future operations.
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★ TURKIYE
Erdogan Urges Israel to Stop “Crazy Policies” Without Mentioning Hezbollah Leader Nasrallah
Turkish President Erdogan called on Israel to halt its “crazy policies” following attacks on Lebanon, without mentioning Nasrallah’s assassination. In his condemnation, Erdogan emphasized the deaths of many, including children, due to Israel’s brutal military strikes on Lebanon. He criticized Israel’s actions, attributing them to global support that enables its disregard for international law and humanity. Erdogan urged the UN Security Council and international bodies to take immediate action to stop Israel’s aggressive policies. He also called for a stronger stance from the Islamic world against Israel’s ongoing attacks and oppression.
Corruption Scandal Casts Shadow Over Erdogan’s U.S. Visit
Turkish President Erdogan’s U.S. visit concluded with increased tensions between Ankara and Washington following a New York corruption scandal. Erdogan’s visit coincided with the indictment of New York Mayor Eric Adams, accused of accepting luxury gifts from Turkish connections. Adams allegedly received business-class flights on Turkish Airlines and a luxury stay at Istanbul’s Saint Regis Hotel, raising concerns. Despite Erdogan’s high-profile meetings on Gaza, Lebanon, and Turkish-Greek normalization, the corruption case overshadowed diplomatic efforts. Erdogan cut his trip short, leaving without attending President Biden’s dinner for UN General Assembly leaders.
Turkiye’s Exports Reach $22 Billion in August as Trade Deficit Shrinks
Exports rose 2.3% in August compared to last year, reaching $22.048 billion, signaling positive trade growth. Data from the Ministry of Trade and Statistical Institute also revealed a 10.7% drop in imports, totaling $27.040 billion. As a result, Turkey’s trade deficit narrowed by 42.7%, falling to $4.992 billion in August compared to the same month last year. The export growth and reduced imports reflect improving economic conditions, helping reduce the foreign trade imbalance for Turkey’s economy.
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★ EGYPT & AFRICA
Egyptian President: Suez Canal Loses $6 Billion in Revenue
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi stated that the Suez Canal has been significantly impacted by “dangerous developments in the region” over the past several months. Speaking during the graduation ceremony of new police academy students on Sunday, he revealed that the canal has lost between 50% to 60% of its revenue over the last eight months, estimating the total losses at more than $6 billion.
Egypt Receives $18.5 Billion in Arab Investments Over Nine Months
Egypt received net investment inflows from Arab countries totaling $18.55 billion during the first nine months of the last fiscal year, according to recent data from the Central Bank of Egypt. The data reviewed by “Al Arabiya Business” showed that Arab investments in Egypt surged by $16.09 billion during the third quarter of the 2023/2024 fiscal year, compared to $2.46 billion in the first half of the same year.
Egypt Exports Bridges and Tanks Worth $290 Million in Eight Months
The value of Egypt’s exports of bridges and tanks increased by 15% in the first eight months of 2024, reaching $290 million, compared to $252 million in the same period of 2023. According to the monthly report issued by the Export Council for Building Materials, Egypt exported bridges and tanks to around 109 countries during this period. Five countries accounted for 50.1% of Egypt’s total bridge and tank exports, amounting to $145.435 million in the first eight months of 2024, compared to $123.4 million during the same period in 2023.
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★ GULF NATIONS
Saudi Arabia Launches International Coalition to Implement Two-State Solution
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan announced an international coalition led by Saudi Arabia to implement the two-state solution between Palestinians and Israelis, involving Arab, Islamic countries, and European partners. The coalition was launched during the United Nations General Assembly meetings. Bin Farhan warned of a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and Israeli violations in the West Bank. He also highlighted escalating regional tensions threatening a broader war involving Lebanon and the region, calling for an immediate halt to the conflict.
Saudi Arabia Begins First Natural Gas Storage Project
Saudi Arabia has launched its first natural gas storage project by injecting processed gas into the Hawiyah Unayzah reservoir. The project aims to manage seasonal demand, reduce carbon emissions, and meet fuel displacement targets. Gas will be injected into the main network at a rate of two billion cubic feet daily. As the ninth-largest gas producer globally, Saudi Arabia plans to begin exporting natural gas by 2030 while transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
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This report was finalized on October 6, 2024, due to scheduling adjustments.
