Iran’s Assissantor Arrested in US
Welcome to the Early Phoenix Middle East Reports, compiled by ACLS Research Team and Editor Rania Kisar. Share your opinion analysis with us and let your voice be heard. Email comments and suggestions to [email protected] or tweet @levantstudies
Top Headlines:
- US Arrests Iranian Affliate for Assassination Plots
- Mastermind of October 7, Sinwar Takes Helm of Hamas
- Israeli Soldiers Rape Palestinian Detainee in Disturbing Prison Footage
- U.S. Airstrikes Target Militias’ Supply Lines in Syria
- Hezbollah Anti-Tank Missile Unit Commander Killed
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★ ISRAEL & PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES
Mastermind of October 7, Sinwar Takes Helm of Hamas
Yahya Sinwar has been named the new head of Hamas’s political bureau following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh in Iran. Sinwar, the mastermind behind the October 7, 2023, invasion of southern Israel, now leads from Gaza, complicating ceasefire negotiations. Arrested in the late 1980s and sentenced to multiple life sentences for killing collaborators, he was released in a prisoner exchange after his brother kidnapped an Israeli soldier. Sinwar then played key roles in Hamas’s military strategies. Post-October 7, his name drew intense scrutiny from Israeli and international security circles. Former prisoners describe him as driven by pragmatism and unyielding ambition, shaped by his experiences and long imprisonment. As head of Hamas in Gaza, he orchestrated significant military developments, reflecting his vision for altering the balance of power. Israeli officials have condemned Sinwar, calling for his elimination, while U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized his critical role in potential ceasefire talks. Hamas officials view Sinwar’s appointment as a message of continued resistance, raising tensions in the region amid potential retaliation from Iran and Hezbollah following recent Israeli actions.
IDF Destroys Hamas Arms Production Plant in Gaza
Fighter jets targeted Hamas rocket launchers and a weapons manufacturing plant in Gaza. The launchers, used in recent rocket attacks on Israel, were located near aid warehouses in southern Gaza and a UN-designated humanitarian zone in Deir el-Balah. The IDF also called on remaining Beit Hanoun residents to evacuate ahead of military operations. Dozens of rockets were fired from southern Gaza, targeting both border communities and long-range areas. The IDF emphasized its efforts to minimize civilian damage while continuing its operations against terror groups.
Most Israelis Support Hostage Deal to End Gaza War
A recent poll by the Hostage Family Forum, conducted by Midgam, reveals that 68% of Israelis support an immediate hostage deal to end the Israel-Hamas war, while 33% oppose. Among coalition voters, 41% favor the deal, and 49% are against it. Additionally, 59% of all voters prefer a deal that ends the war. The poll surveyed 504 Israelis, representing the Jewish population.
Police Raid Israeli Foreign Minister Over Diplomatic Passports
Police investigators raided the Israeli Foreign Ministry’s offices in Jerusalem, suspecting the improper issuance of diplomatic passports to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s son Yair and prominent Likud party members. The raid, conducted by the Israel Police National Fraud Investigation Unit, involved seizing materials as part of an ongoing investigation. Former foreign minister Eli Cohen allegedly overruled staff to issue these passports, which are meant for high-ranking officials, to individuals not eligible for them. Among the recipients were regional council chairmen and mayors linked to the Likud party. The investigation aims to uncover the extent of these irregularities and ensure proper administration within government institutions.
UK Temporarily Halts Arms Export Licenses to Israel
The UK has temporarily stopped processing arms export licenses to Israel pending a government review. This action follows allegations of humanitarian law violations in Gaza. Exporters seeking licenses have been informed by the Department for Business and Trade that their applications are on hold. Whitehall sources clarified that this is not a policy change but an administrative measure. The review’s completion date remains unspecified, focusing on assessing the risks of arms sales to Israel amid ongoing allegations.
Israeli Soldiers Rape Palestinian Detainee in Disturbing Prison Footage
Channel 12 has released harrowing video evidence of Israeli soldiers raping a Palestinian detainee at Sde Teiman. Surveillance footage reveals soldiers selecting a blindfolded prisoner from over 30 detainees, taking him to a secluded area, and hiding their actions with shields. The graphic footage shows soldiers inserting a sharp object into the detainee’s rectum, causing severe injuries including rectal lacerations, broken ribs, and intestinal damage. The victim was hospitalized for these injuries. Dr. Yoel Donchin, an anesthesiologist who treated the detainee, observed signs of severe sexual abuse, including fractured ribs and visible physical trauma. He noted a round object had been inserted into the detainee’s rectum, causing significant internal injuries. Dr. Yoel Donchin was shocked to believe that Israeli guards could be responsible for the severe abuse he observed, despite his obligation to report it. Far-right activists and lawmakers staged intense protests, attacking military bases and demanding the release of the implicated soldiers. The soldiers appeared before a military court, with political divisions highlighted as some defended the abuses. A member of Netanyahu’s Likud party, Hanoch Milwidsky, justified the actions as legitimate against “terrorists.” In addition, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich suggested it might be “just and ethical” to starve two million Gazans to secure the return of Israeli hostages, though he acknowledged that the world would never permit such actions. He also criticized international restrictions, asserting that Israel should control aid distribution in Gaza.
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★ ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH CRISIS
Hezbollah Anti-Tank Missile Unit Commander Killed
The Lebanese National News Agency reported intermittent Israeli artillery shelling on the outskirts of Zibqin and nearby valleys in southern Lebanon, including areas between Jbin and Tayr Harfa, and the Wadi Hassan region. Shelling also targeted Shakra and Braachit, causing injuries from phosphorus shells, including one man treated for suffocation. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for attacks on Israeli positions. An Israeli drone strike targeted a motorcycle in the town of Joya, killing two people and injuring six others. The local authority identified the deceased as Hassan Faris Jishi and Mohammed Hassan Shumer. The Israeli military confirmed the death of Hassan Faris, identified as the commander of Hezbollah’s anti-tank missile unit.
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★ IRAN
Iran’s Affliate Arrested for Assassination Plots in the U.S.
Iran’s affliate, Asif Merchant, a 46-year-old Pakistani national with suspected ties to Iran, has been charged with plotting to assassinate US politicians, including potentially former President Donald Trump. Merchant allegedly paid $5,000 to an undercover FBI agent posing as a hitman. Frequent travels to Iran, Syria, and Iraq, and discussions about targeting a highly protected figure, led to his arrest on July 12 . The indictment reveals Merchant entered the US in April after visiting Iran, contacted a supposed facilitator, and made coded threats of an ongoing plot. In June, Merchant, introduced to FBI agents as hitmen, directed them to steal documents, stage protests, and assassinate a political figure, with the targets to be disclosed later.
Excited About JCPOA: What You Didn’t Know About Harris’s VP Pick
Kamala Harris announced Tim Walz as her vice-presidential candidate.
Walz views the 2015 Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) as the best opportunity for the US to dismantle Iran’s current nuclear program, despite acknowledging that the deal is not perfect. He emphasizes the importance of having inspectors on the ground to ensure compliance.
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★ YEMEN
U.S. and British Airstrikes on Taiz Amid Houthi Attacks on Ships
U.S. and British forces conducted two airstrikes on Taiz province in southwest Yemen, successfully destroying one Iranian-backed Houthi uncrewed aerial vehicle and two Iranian-backed Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles. The Houthis claim to have targeted 170 ships linked to the U.S. and Israel, including 41 Israeli, 72 American, and 12 British vessels, across the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean, and Mediterranean Sea. These actions are part of the Houthis’ broader campaign in support of Gaza. The Houthis have vowed to continue their attacks until Israeli offensives in Gaza cease.
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★ IRAQ
US and Iraqi Officials React to Al-Asad Base Attack
A rocket attack on Al-Asad base in Iraq yesterday injured seven Americans, with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirming Iran-backed militants were responsible. Austin warned of potential US retaliation and emphasized the country’s commitment to protecting its forces. The Iraqi Joint Operations Command condemned the attack as a “reckless act” and is pursuing suspects. Amid heightened regional tensions, both US and Iraqi officials stress the need for stability and security.
Ignored Voices, Yazidi Suffering Continues
This week marks the 10th anniversary of the Yazidi genocide, where ISIS killed over 10,000 Yazidis, abducted more than 7,000 women and children, and displaced 400,000. Despite the passage of a decade, around 200,000 Yazidis remain in displacement camps in the Kurdistan Region, unable to return home due to security threats and inadequate infrastructure in Sinjar. Efforts to prosecute ISIS perpetrators have been slow, with the closure of the UN’s investigative team UNITAD being a significant setback.
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★ SYRIA
U.S. Airstrikes Target Militias’ Supply Lines in Syria
Iranian militias attacked Ain Assad airbase in Iraq yesterday and attempted to strike the U.S. base in Syria today. The militants targeted the Al-Omar oil field, the largest American military base in Syria, using Mahkan station on the Euphrates’ western bank as their support point. Clashes erupted between SDF forces and the Iranian-led militias, who employed artillery and mortars. Two people were killed and several others wounded during these clashes. American warplanes targeted the militants’ supply lines at Mahkan Station, directly opposite Dhiban, aiming to disrupt their operations. The SDF imposed a curfew and brought in reinforcements as fighting continued.
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★ TURKIYE
Turkey to Join Genocide Case Against Israel at International Court of Justice
A diplomatic source revealed that Turkey will announce its decision to join South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice today. The announcement, set for 13:30 GMT, follows Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s statement earlier this week. Turkey’s intervention aims to prompt international recognition and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, according to Reuters.
Turkish ASELSAN Secures $34.3 Million Export Deal
Turkish defense company ASELSAN has signed an export deal worth $34.3 million. This contract involves the sale of naval platforms to an undisclosed international client. Founded in 1975 to meet the Turkish Armed Forces’ communication needs, ASELSAN is renowned for its production of military-grade electronic systems. The company specializes in designing and producing communication tools and systems for land, air, and sea forces, adhering to military standards.
Foreign Financing Worth $2.5 Billion at Final Phase: Şimşek
The foreign financing package for Turkey, totaling $2.5 billion, is nearing finalization, according to Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek. This package, developed in cooperation with international financial institutions, supports development-oriented projects with favorable long-term financing below market interest rates. Turkey has secured approximately $2.9 billion in long-term financing this year for infrastructure needs post-earthquake. The upcoming projects, including $1.9 billion from the World Bank, focus on flood and drought measures, energy efficiency, and rebuilding small industrial sites in the earthquake zone.
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★ EGYPT & NORTH AFRICA
Iranian and Egyptian Officials Discuss Haniyeh’s Assassination Aftermath
Iran’s Acting Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri and Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Atty held their third phone discussion on Tuesday, following Ismail Haniyeh’s assassination in Tehran. This follows Bagheri’s call with Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg. The talks addressed the implications of Haniyeh’s death and the upcoming emergency meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Jeddah. Bagheri criticized Western countries for not condemning the assassination and blamed Israel for regional instability. Abdel Atty expressed Egypt’s warnings to Western nations about Israeli actions, hoping tensions would ease. Austria’s Schallenberg called for diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions.
Egypt’s Petroleum Authority Delays $2 Billion Repayment to Local Banks
Egypt’s Petroleum Authority has reached an agreement with a consortium of local banks to delay the repayment of $2 billion in debt by one year. The repayment, originally scheduled to start in 2025, will now begin in early 2026. Burdened with debt, the authority is also working to settle $3.2 billion in overdue payments to foreign oil companies, with the first installment of $1.2 billion due in October this year. This agreement aims to provide the authority with some financial relief and more time to manage its obligations.
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★ THE GULF
Saudi Arabia and Qatar Reject Participation in Gaza Peacekeeping Force
Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Jordan have declined US requests to join a peacekeeping force in Gaza post-war, citing concerns that their troops would be seen as protecting Israel from Palestinians. This stance contrasts with Egypt and the UAE, which have expressed willingness to participate under specific conditions. The UAE highlighted that their involvement would require an invitation from the Palestinian Authority and be part of a broader initiative leading to a two-state solution, an idea previously rejected by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Emir of Qatar Discusses Gaza Situation with President Biden
Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and U.S. President Joe Biden discussed the situation in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories during a phone call. They reviewed joint mediation efforts to end the conflict in Gaza and addressed regional and international developments of mutual concern. The conversation also covered strategic relations between Qatar and the U.S. The White House noted Biden’s appreciation for the Emir’s leadership in facilitating negotiations. In a separate call, Biden discussed regional de-escalation and a Gaza ceasefire with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.
ADNOC Logistics & Services Reports $1.7 Billion Revenue in Six Months
ADNOC Logistics & Services PLC, a subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), announced a revenue of $1.7 billion for the first half of 2024. The company, based in the United Arab Emirates, recorded a net profit of $401 million, a 31% increase compared to the same period in 2023. ADNOC Logistics & Services plays a critical role in the Middle East, providing logistics and marine services to the energy sector. Its operations include the transportation of oil and gas and support for offshore and onshore activities within the Gulf region and beyond. The company is executing a strategic growth plan, aiming to invest over $5 billion in specialized maritime logistics opportunities by 2028, including fleet expansion and global acquisitions.
Oman Sells One Million Barrels of Crude Amid Refinery Issues
Oman’s Ministry of Energy and Minerals sold one million barrels of crude oil for late August delivery due to operational issues at the Sohar refinery, which led to the shutdown of one of its distillation units. The sale was awarded to OQ, with the shipment likely heading to the Duqm refinery. In the first half of 2024, Oman’s oil exports increased by 0.3% to 153.36 million barrels, despite a 5.3% decline in production. China remained the top importer, followed by South Korea and Japan.
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📰 THE EARLY PHOENIX August 2-6, 2024
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